Identifying branch circuits in an electrical installation

Abstract

A system for identifying branch circuits in an electrical installation includes circuit interrupters in a distribution board and electrical connection points, such as sockets, connected by power cables. Each circuit interrupter defines a branch circuit with multiple connection points. In at least one branch circuit, the circuit interrupter features a central activator (e.g., a switch), while at least one connection point has a remote responder (e.g., an indicator light or sounder). The power cable includes a responder wire, neutral wire, and phase carrying wires, linking the central activator to the remote responder. The system activates the remote responder when the central activator is engaged.

Description

IDENTIFYING BRANCH CIRCUITS IN AN ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONField of the invention

[0001] The present application generally relates to electrical installations, and more particularly to systems for identifying branch circuits within such installations.Background of the invention

[0002] Electrical installations typically involve a central distribution board that forms multiple local circuits to supply electrical appliances. Each circuit can be interrupted by switches or fuses, affecting only associated outlets like sockets and lamp outlets. Due to hidden cables and complex branching, it becomes challenging to trace circuits and identify socket connections. Over time, labels on distribution boards may fail, leading to unreliable circuit identification, which complicates maintenance, particularly in complex environments like industrial settings.

[0003] US 2013 / 0313088 Al discusses circuit interrupters with indicator circuits that work with a remote transmitter to signal circuit status. However, this requires specific compatible transmitters and can be affected by electrical noise. EP3874534 presents a system with circuit interrupters and outlets, where an indicator light informs electricians which interrupter to switch off. While useful for pinpointing a specific circuit interrupter, it is less efficient for mapping all outlets on a circuit, or identifying which outlets belong to the same circuit.Summary of the invention

[0004] The inventor has identified the above-mentioned problems and challenges related to the difficulty in effectively identifying and managing branch circuits due to hidden cables and unreliable circuit labels. The inventor has subsequently made the below-described invention which may reduce working time and improve working safety for the professional, reduce annoyance and critical outages for the users, and achieve faster and / or more reliable detection of associated electrical connection points, with consequently reduced costs for future work on electrical installations that have the present invention implemented.

[0005] There is disclosed a system for identifying branch circuits in an electrical installation. The system comprises a plurality of circuit interrupters arranged in a distribution board and a plurality of electrical connection points, such as sockets, distributed in a building. Eachelectrical connection point is connected to one of the circuit interrupters by means of a power cable. Thus, each circuit interrupter defines a branch circuit a number of electrical connection points.

[0006] In at least one of the branch circuits, the circuit interrupter comprises a central activator, such as a switch. At least one, preferably two or more, possibly all, of the electrical connection points of the same branch circuit comprises a remote responder, such as an indicator light or sounding body. The power cable of the same branch circuit comprises at least a responder wire, a neutral wire, and one or more phase carrying wires. The responder wire connects the central activator of the circuit interrupter with the remote responder of the electrical connection point. The system is arranged to activate the remote responder of the at least one, preferably two or more, possibly all, electrical connection point upon activation of the central activator.

[0007] The system enables enhancing the visibility and control of circuit interrupters and their associated electrical connection points within a building. Traditional systems often lack a clear indication of which electrical connection points belong to which circuits, leading to potential safety hazards and inefficiencies during maintenance or troubleshooting. The proposed system integrates a central activator and remote responders to facilitate real-time feedback on the branch circuits, thereby improving the ability to monitor and manage electrical connections effectively.

[0008] The integration of a responder wire within the power cable allows for a simplified and efficient means of identifying active branch circuits, thereby facilitating maintenance and troubleshooting within the electrical installation.

[0009] The use of a central activator in conjunction with a remote responder provides immediate visual or auditory feedback at the electrical connection point, enhancing user convenience and safety by clearly indicating the status of the circuit. If several electrical connection points of the same branch circuit include a remote responder, they will all be activated upon activation of the central activator of the circuit interrupter of that branch circuit.

[0010] The electrical installation system of the present invention ensures an unambiguous relationship between circuit interrupters in the distribution board and electrical connection points located remotely across different electrical circuits. For instance, in a building withnumerous circuit interrupters and electrical circuits, where markings may be missing or unreliable and circuit distribution lacks clarity, this invention allows professionals to determine relationships between specific circuit interrupters and, potentially, all electrical connection points within the building in a safe, efficient, and reliable manner without needing to shut off irrelevant circuits. This approach avoids causing critical outages or annoyance. Additionally, if a relationship is already known between a circuit interrupter and a specific electrical connection point, the invention aids in identifying other related connection points within the same branch circuit.

[0011] Once installed, this system offers immediate benefits for ongoing and future maintenance, ultimately reducing costs by saving professional hours and preventing unnecessary outages. It enhances safety for professionals by providing reliable relationships between circuit interrupters and electrical connection points, minimizing the need to inconvenience all users or take risks with uncertain guesses. Since the invention does not rely on superimposed signals, it requires no advanced equipment, is more robust against electrical noise, and is simpler to troubleshoot.

[0012] This invention is suitable for any electrical installation system comprising various circuit breakers and circuit layouts that may be complex or feature hidden wiring. Such systems could be domestic, commercial, or industrial, accommodating single-phase 230V AC / 120V AC systems for lighting and consumer devices, as well as three-phase or split-phase 400V AC / 240V AC systems for high-power appliances. It is particularly advantageous for installations requiring heightened security and reliability, such as in industrial settings, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, airports, ships, hotels, data centers, and server rooms, where unintended circuit interruptions can have grave consequences.

[0013] Conventional electrical installations typically run a cable from a circuit breaker or residual current device in the distribution board to a socket or outlet. Normally, a 230V wiring system utilizes a three-wire cable comprising a phase carrying wire, a neutral wire, and a protective earth wire. According to the invention, an additional wire, referred to as a responder wire, is necessary between the circuit breaker and the socket, preferably integrated into the cable. This additional wire connects to a separate responder wire terminal in a socket with four terminals instead of the standard three. The responder wire terminal is designed to receive an activation signal for the remote responder from a central activator in the distribution board. The central activator may establish a connection between the phase carrying wire and theresponder wire, typically achieved by activating a switch, such as a toggle switch, part of the circuit interrupter and potentially added to a conventional fuse, miniature circuit breaker, or residual circuit breaker with over-current protection.

[0014] Within the electrical connection point, a remote responder, such as a light-emitting diode or indicator lamp, is installed, as an extension of a typical socket, outlet, or lamp connection box. The light-emitting diode may illuminate or flash to indicate which electrical connection points are tied to the activated circuit interrupter's central activator, thus enabling a fast, accurate, and safe identification of a branch circuit and its connection points. Similar capabilities can be integrated into CEE sockets (400V) or safety switches, etc. Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention offers a new type of circuit breaker with an integrated central activator and potentially a central responder for identification purposes. The central activator in the circuit breaker includes a switch to link the responder wire with a phase carrying wire.

[0015] Additionally, another embodiment features a novel electrical connection point, such as a single-phase 110V-120V or 230V socket, or a three-phase 400V socket, equipped with a built-in remote responder that connects between the responder wire and the neutral wire. This setup activates when the circuit breaker's central activator is engaged. Alternatively, the central activator can connect the responder to the neutral wire, while the remote responder is connected between the responder wire and a phase carrying wire.

[0016] In an embodiment, the remote responder of the electrical connection point is connected between the responder wire and the neutral wire, and the central activator of the circuit interrupter is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder wire and one of the one or more phase carrying wires; or wherein the remote responder of the electrical connection point is connected between the responder wire and one of the one or more phase carrying wires, and the central activator of the circuit interrupter is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder wire and the neutral wire.

[0017] The configuration where the remote responder is connected between the responder wire and the neutral wire offers a significant safety advantage. In this setup, the responder wire remains non-phase carrying until the central activator is engaged, reducing potential electrical hazards and ensuring that the wire poses minimal risk most of the time. This setup thus enhances the overall safety of the electrical system by limiting the presence of phasevoltage on the responder wire when the system is not actively being used. However, the flexibility in connecting the remote responder either between the responder wire and the neutral wire or between the responder wire and a phase carrying wire allows for adaptability in various electrical systems and preferences in installation methods. The arrangement of the central activator to establish electrical contact upon activation ensures a reliable and direct control mechanism for the remote responder, leading to a responsive and user-friendly identification system.

[0018] In an embodiment, the central activator comprises a switch that closes upon the activation. The inclusion of a switch that closes upon activation is a user-friendly, safe and robust means of controlling the activation of the remote responders. The closing is between the mentioned responder wire and preferably a phase carrying wire. In an embodiment, the switch is a double throw switch or changeover switch, which instead of simply being open to let the responder wire float when not activated, is connecting the responder wire to the neutral wire when not activated, to terminate the responder wire. In the alternative embodiment where the remote responder is connected between the responder wire and a phase carrying wire, the central activator switch is arranged to connect the responder wire with the neutral wire upon closing, or changeover from a phase carrying wire and the neutral wire upon activation.

[0019] In an embodiment, the switch of the central activator is selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable into contact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head. Offering a variety of switch types for the central activator, including tumbler switches, microswitches, reed switches, and push button switches, among others, allows for customization to user preference and application-specific requirements, increasing the system's versatility.

[0020] The ability to use simple tools like a screwdriver head to connect two terminals provides an easy and cost-effective solution for activating the remote responder, which is in most systems only intended to be activated during maintenance, and not during normal operation by non-professionals.

[0021] In other words, any way of providing a reasonable fast and convenient way of temporarily connecting the responder wire to the phase, or alternatively neutral, is within the scope of the invention. By using a toggle type switch or connection, e.g. a screw or microswitch, the remote responder is maintained in activated mode until the switch is toggled again, thereby allowing the professional to move from the distribution board and walk around the building in a search for the one or more electrical connection points with activated remote responders. The same can be achieved for temporary switches such as a push button or narrow gap short-circuited by a screwdriver head, by providing a timer or delay functionality in the remote responder, e.g. simply by means of a rectifier and capacitor quickly being charged at the temporary connection to a phase, but slowly discharging through the responder light bulb and a series-connected resistor. By using a temporary switch such as a push button or narrow gap short-circuited by a screwdriver head, without a delay functionality, a colleague or camera has to monitor the remote responders, but an advantage is that the remote responder is automatically disconnected when releasing the button, so the installation is not left with activated responders. The responder may also have an activate-and-hold functionality, requiring a reset at the remote responder location to turn the indication off. Such functionality requiring additional power than provided by the temporary connection to the responder wire, requires that the responder has access to a permanent phase, a low-voltage power supply or a battery. With an activate-and-hold functionality that is powered even when the related circuit interrupter has interrupted the circuit, the remote responder may stay activated throughout the work session, thereby facilitated detection of corresponding electrical connection points even with opened circuit breakers. In an embodiment, the circuit interrupter is arranged so it cannot be turned on as long as the central activator is activated.

[0022] In an embodiment, the remote responder is configured to perform one or more of the following when activated: emit light, flash, vibrate or emit sound. The inclusion of a remote responder that can emit light, flash, vibrate, or emit sound provides a versatile signaling mechanism that can alert users to various conditions or statuses of the system, enhancing user awareness and safety. The multi-modal alert capabilities of the remote responder ensure that alerts can be perceived in different environmental conditions, such as in noisy environments where an audible signal might not be heard or in brightly lit areas where a visual signal might not be noticed.

[0023] The remote responder may for example be a simple light bulb, which lights up when a phase is connected, or it may be a more complex light source for example based on light emitting diode LED technology, and including an appropriate driver to transform the AC phase to a suitable power form for the light source, optionally also controlling a flashing scheme or the like. In other embodiments, the responder may comprise a vibrator, e.g. small electromotor, or a sound emitter, e.g. a buzzer, loudspeaker, etc. The responder may also include a display to indicate a circuit number, a circuit name, etc.

[0024] In an embodiment, the power cable further comprises a protective earth wire and / or one or more switch wires; and / or wherein the power cable is a collection of wires preferably run in a common jacket or common conduit. A 4-wire cable is preferred for the present invention in typical single phase circuits, as a neutral wire, a phase carrying wire and a protective earth wire are usually required, in addition to the responder wire. By using a 5- og 6-wire cable, there will further be provided one or two switch wires for use in lighting control. In three-phase circuits, a 6-wire cable is preferred, i.e. the four wires mentioned before, and two additional phase carrying wires. According to the present invention, the term power cable denotes a collection of wires run together, including a phase carrying wire, but does not require that they are provided as a single multi-core cable with a common jacket. The 6-wire power cable may for example comprise two 3-wire cables, or plastic conduits in which 6 individual wires are run, or a conventional 3- or 5-wire cable and an additional individual responder wire run besides it to achieve a total of 4 or 6 wires. The wires may be stranded or solid according to local electricity wiring regulations. If local regulations allow, the responder wire may be thinner than the other wires as the remote responder preferably only consumes very little current.

[0025] In an embodiment, the circuit interrupter is configured to interrupt at least one phase carrying wire and a neutral wire in case of an overcurrent and / or a residual current in the corresponding branch circuit; and / or wherein the circuit interrupter is selected from the list of a fuse, a circuit breaker, a miniature circuit breaker MCB, a residual-current device RCD, a residual-current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection RCBO, a ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI, a ground fault interrupter GFI, and an appliance leakage current interrupter ALCI.

[0026] The circuit interrupter may be any device allowing manual interruption of an electrical circuit, but is preferably one of the circuit interruption devices anyway required bylocal regulation, such as for example fuses or circuit breakers to break circuits at an overcurrent condition, and / or residual-current devices to break circuit at a residual-current condition, e.g. when a phase gets connected to protective earth through a damaged device, or to ground through for example a person touching a leaking appliance or bare wire. Combination circuit breakers offering both kinds of protection are also preferred circuit interrupters according to the invention. Other circuit interrupters with similar applications as the list above are also considered within the scope of the invention. Typically, the circuit interrupters mentioned here, besides their automatic protective interruption functionality, provides a manually operated switch to allow the professional to break the circuit when the correction circuit interrupter has been determined. Usually, modem circuit interrupters are designed to interrupt all phases and neutral of a circuit simultaneously, but any interruption scheme is within the scope of the invention.

[0027] In an embodiment, the remote responder is selected from the list of a one-phase socket, a three-phase socket, a split-phase socket, a lighting switch, a safety switch, a junction box, a ceiling rose, a light outlet, a light fitting, and an industrial socket. According to the invention, the electrical connection point may be any location at an electrical circuit where maintenance or modification may be relevant in the future, and it will thereby be necessary to determine the correct circuit interrupter to break the circuit before starting the work. Typically, such electrical connection points are from the list above, i.e. various kinds of sockets, junctions, switches, etc., which may either be relevant to replace in the future, or serve as starting point for a new branching of the circuit. Often such electrical connection points are easy and fast for the professional to open to reveal the wiring and / or the responder switch, and may thereby allow easy and fast access to the responder switch while still hiding it from the everyday user.

[0028] In an embodiment, the electrical installation is a 230V AC system, a 400V AC system, a 230 / 400V AC system, or a 110-120V AC system. In other words, the present invention is applicable in electrical systems based on EU regulation, US regulation or any similar systems.

[0029] In an embodiment, the circuit interrupter, in addition to the central activator, also comprises a central responder such as an indicator light or sounding body; and preferably wherein the system is arranged to activate the central responder upon activation of the central activator in addition to activating the remote responder. The ability of the system to activateboth the central and remote responders ensures that users can conveniently monitor the status of the electrical circuits both at the distribution board and throughout the building. This dual indication system provides a clear and comprehensive overview of circuit statuses, enhancing user convenience and facilitating efficient circuit management.

[0030] In an embodiment, the central responder of the circuit interrupter is connected between the same two wires as the remote responder of the electrical installation point. Thereby the central responder is always triggered the same way and at the same time as the remote responder(s), ensuring a reliable feedback at the distribution board.

[0031] In an embodiment, at least one of the electrical connection points of the same branch circuit comprises a remote activator such as a switch; wherein the responder wire of the power cable further connects the remote activator of the electrical connection point with the central responder of the circuit interrupter; wherein the remote activator is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the same two wires as the central activator of the circuit interrupter, and wherein the system is arranged to activate the central responder, and preferably the remote responder, upon activation of the remote activator.

[0032] The integration of a remote activator, such as a switch, within the same branch circuit allows for localized control, enabling users to manage the system directly from the point of use, which enhances convenience and operational efficiency. Thereby the system is provided with the additional feature directly identifying which circuit interrupter is connected with a particular electrical connection point. The design wherein the responder wire connects the remote activator with the central responder ensures that activation of the remote activator triggers a coordinated response from both the central and remote responders, providing a unified system reaction.

[0033] In an embodiment, the remote activator comprises a switch that closes upon the activation, such as a switch selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable into contact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head. In an embodiment, the central responder is configured to perform one or more of the following when activated: emit light, flash, vibrate or emit sound. The remote activator switch, and / orthe central responder, may be implemented according to any of the embodiments and considerations described for the central activator switch, and / or remote responder, respectively.

[0034] There is disclosed a circuit interrupter comprising a neutral terminal for connection of a neutral wire of a power cable. It also includes at least one phase carrying terminal for connection of at least one phase carrying wire of the power cable. The circuit interrupter is configured to interrupt the neutral terminal and at least one phase carrying terminal in case of overcurrent and / or residual current in the circuit. The circuit interrupter is characterized in that it comprises a responder terminal for connection of a responder wire of the power cable. Additionally, the circuit interrupter comprises a central activator such as a switch. This central activator is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal and either one of the phase carrying terminal or the neutral terminal.

[0035] This beneficial type of circuit interrupter having a central activator and a responder wire terminal, may advantageously be installed in electrical installations where an additional responder wire is run along the branch circuits’ conventional wires. Thereby is provided a safe, fast and easy way of activating remote responders in the electrical connection points in order to identify branch circuits.

[0036] In an embodiment of the circuit interrupter, the central activator comprises a switch that closes upon the activation. In an embodiment of the circuit interrupter, the switch of the central activator is selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable into contact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head. In an embodiment of the circuit interrupter, it further comprises a central responder such as an indicator light or sounding body, connected between the responder terminal and the neutral terminal when the central activator is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal and one of the phase carrying terminals, or connected between the responder terminal and one of the phase carrying terminals when the central activator is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal and the neutral terminal. In an embodiment of the circuit interrupter, the central responder is arranged to be activated upon activation of the central activator, and / or upon activation of the responder terminal. Thereby the centralresponder may be activated either locally or remotely. The central activator switch, and / or the central responder, may be implemented according to any of the embodiments and considerations described above for the central activator switch, and / or central responder, respectively.

[0037] There is disclosed a distribution board comprising two or more circuit interrupters each defining a branch circuit; wherein the circuit interrupters are circuit interrupters according to any of the above.

[0038] A distribution board, sometimes also referred to as panelboard, breaker panel or electrical panel, containing circuit interrupters according to any of the above, may provide all the advantages described above in relation to the electrical installation system, as long as the rest of the installation supports it. This means in particular that responder wires are run besides the conventionally used wires along the branch circuits to allow safe, fast and easy identification of the remote locations of the individual branch circuits. The electrical installation system may preferably be any of the above-described embodiments.

[0039] There is disclosed an electrical connection point, such as a socket. It comprises a neutral terminal connection of a neutral wire of a power cable and at least one phase carrying terminal connection of at least one phase carrying wire of the power cable. The electrical connection point is configured to provide user access to connecting or switching electrical appliances, such as lamps, electronic devices, or major appliances like washing machines, between the neutral terminal and at least one phase carrying terminal. The electrical connection point is characterized in that it comprises a responder terminal for connection of a responder wire of the power cable. The electrical connection point also comprises a remote responder, such as an indicator light or sounding body. It is connected between the responder terminal and either one of the phase carrying terminal or the neutral terminal. The remote responder is arranged to be activated upon activation of the responder terminal.

[0040] This beneficial type of electrical connection point having a remote responder and a responder wire terminal, may advantageously be installed in electrical installations where an additional responder wire is run along the branch circuits’ conventional wires. Thereby is provided a safe, fast and easy way of letting, e.g., circuit interrupters activate the remote responders in the electrical connection points in order to identify branch circuits.

[0041] In an embodiment of the electrical connection point, it further comprises a remote activator such as a switch, arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal and the phase carrying terminal when the remote responder is connected between the responder terminal and the neutral terminal, or arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal and the neutral terminal when the central activator is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal and one of the phase carrying terminals. In an embodiment of the electrical connection point, the remote responder is arranged to further be activated upon activation of the remote activator. Thereby the remote responder may be activated both locally and remotely. The remote activator switch, and / or the remote responder, may be implemented according to any of the embodiments and considerations described above for the remote activator switch, and / or remote responder, respectively.

[0042] There is disclosed a use of any of the above-described embodiments of a circuit interrupter, distribution board, or an electrical connection point, in a system for identifying branch circuits according to any of the above.

[0043] The application of the circuit interrupter, distribution board, or electrical connection point in a system as described above offers a comprehensive solution for managing electrical circuits, protecting professionals, and reducing time spent for maintenance.

[0044] There is disclosed a method for identifying branch circuits in an electrical installation. The installation comprises a plurality of circuit interrupters arranged in a distribution board and a plurality of electrical connection points, such as sockets, distributed in a building. Each electrical connection point is connected to one of the circuit interrupters by means of a power cable. Each circuit interrupter defines a branch circuit having a number of electrical connection points. In at least one of the branch circuits, the circuit interrupter comprises a central activator, such as a switch. At least one of the electrical connection points of the same branch circuit comprises a remote responder, such as an indicator light or sounding body. The power cable of the same branch circuit comprises at least a responder wire, a neutral wire, and one or more phase carrying wires. The responder wire connects the central activator of the circuit interrupter with the remote responder of the electrical connection point. The method comprises activating the central activator of a particular one of the circuit interrupters. Upon the activation of the central activator, electrical contact is established between the responder wire and either one of the phase carrying wires or the neutral wire. The remoteresponder connected to the central activator through the responder wire, is then activated, such as turning on a light or a sound. The method identifies the branch circuit as comprising the particular one circuit interrupter with activated central activator and the at least one electrical connection point with activated remote responders.

[0045] The disclosed method enhances safety during maintenance or troubleshooting by allowing for clear and immediate identification of specific branch circuits, reducing the risk of working on live circuits inadvertently.

[0046] The integration of a responder wire within the power cable simplifies the identification process by providing a direct signaling pathway from the central activator to the remote responder, thereby improving the efficiency of the identification process.

[0047] By the method, a professional may fast, safely and easily determine which electrical connection points, such as sockets, are related to a specific circuit interrupter and branch circuit of interest, or which electrical installation points are belonging to the same branch circuit, and thereby be able to interrupt that specific circuit without interrupting the other circuits.

[0048] The method may advantageously be carried out in a system for identifying branch circuits according to any of the above, and / or using the circuit interrupter, the distribution board, and / or the electrical connection point according to any of the above.The drawings

[0049] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements. Embodiments of the application will now be described with reference to the attached drawings:

[0050] Figure 1 depicts a system designed to identify branch circuits.

[0051] Figures 2 to 4 present various configuration examples.

[0052] Figure 5 shows a distribution board within a branch circuit identification system.

[0053] Figure 6 displays branch circuits and electrical connection points in a branch circuit identification system.

[0054] Figure 7 illustrates a configuration example for a 3x400V system.

[0055] Figure 8 illustrates a configuration example for a 230V system.Detailed description

[0056] An electrical installation system is disclosed that enables safe and efficient detection and localization of electrical installations. The system is designed to ensure the correct shutdown of electrical installations, minimizing the risk of inadvertently switching off the wrong relay. The relays involved may include fuse groups, circuit breakers, RCD relays, or combination relays that integrate both RCD and circuit breaker functionalities. These relays can supply various connection points, including sockets, CEE outlets, safety switches, membrane boxes, or lamp outlets.

[0057] The installation system incorporates an additional conductor within the cable connecting the relay to the socket, which may establish a clear relationship between the relay and the connection point. This additional conductor connects to a separate responder terminal in the relay, which features three terminals instead of the standard two terminals typically found in 230V installations. The socket is equipped with clamps that accommodate this configuration, possibly along with an indicator light on its front.

[0058] Activation of a detector button located on the front of the relay initiates a detection process. This action sends a phase signal to the optional indicator light within the relay, illuminating it, and subsequently through the responder conductor to activate the advantageous indicator light in the socket. This dual illumination of indicator lights at both the relay and the socket confirms the established connection and relationship between the two components.

[0059] In an embodiment, detection can also be performed directly at the socket. By utilizing a toggle switch or an insulated tool, a connection can be created between the phase and a responder terminal, which will illuminate the indicator light in the socket and simultaneously activate the indicator light in the relay. This feature allows for a safe, rapid, and accurate shutdown of the installation.

[0060] The system is applicable to various voltage installations, including 110-120V, 230V, and 400V configurations. The invention is particularly advantageous in environments with high safety requirements, such as industrial facilities, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, airports, ships, hotels, and server rooms, where the consequences of turning off the incorrect installation can be severe.

[0061] In summary, the electrical installation system provides a reliable method for ensuring the correct identification and shutdown of electrical installations, enhancing safety for electricians and reducing potential costs associated with future work on the installation.

[0062] Fig. 1 depicts a system designed to identify branch circuits. The drawing shows an electrical installation 1 with multiple branch circuits C1-C5, circuit interrupters, and electrical connection points. An electrical installation 1 comprises multiple circuit interrupters located within a distribution board. Each circuit interrupter 3 is connected through a power cable 6 to various electrical connection points such as sockets, distributed across the system 1. The figure details the wiring setup, highlighting key components like the responder wire 10, neutral wire 11, and phase carrying wire 12. Also, a protective earth wire is illustrated, as it will normally be present and required by regulation, but is not technically required for the invention. Additionally, Fig. 1 illustrates the connection and functional interaction between the central activator 5 in the circuit interrupter 3 and the remote responder 8 in the electrical connection points. Further is show the option of a central responder 4 in the circuit interrupters, and / or a remote activator 9 in the electrical connection points. For simplicity, the activators and responders are only numbered in a few occurrences, but are present in all the circuit interrupters and electrical installation points of the illustrated example. In some embodiments, the central responders and / or remote activators are only implemented in some of the circuit interrupters or electrical installation points, respectively, or not at all.

[0063] As shown, the electrical installation 1 has both 1 -phase and 3 -phase branch circuits, and corresponding circuit interrupters and sockets. As can also be imagined from the drawing, the sockets belonging together in the same branch circuit are not necessarily mounted together, and the power cables are mixed up to make it difficult and time-consuming to identify branch circuits by following power cables, or guessing based on mounting location.

[0064] Fig. 1 also schematically illustrates a 3P+N and a 1P+N circuit interrupter 3 with responder terminal R, central activator 5, and preferably central responder 4, according to an embodiment of the invention. The circuit interrupters may be with or without RCD functionality.

[0065] Fig. 1 also schematically illustrates electrical connection points with responder terminal R, remote responder 8, and optional remote activator, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0066] Figs. 2-4 illustrate various configuration examples.

[0067] Fig. 2 shows a configuration example, with a schematic representation of an electrical installation 1 with a circuit interrupter 3 and an electrical connection point. The figure shows an electrical installation 1 comprising a circuit interrupter 3 connected to an electrical connection point 7 through a power cable 6. The circuit interrupter 3 includes a central activator and a central responder 4, while the electrical connection point 7 includes a remote responder and a remote activator 9. The power cable 6 consists of a responder wire 10, a neutral wire 11, and a phase carrying wire 12. There may also be a protective earth wire (not shown). The circuit interrupter 3 has terminals L and N connected to the corresponding terminal of the electrical connection point 7 , denoting the live and neutral connections, which are connected as conventionally to supply electrical appliances at the remote location of the electrical connection point 7. Upon activation of the central activator 5, i.e. closing of the switch, and due to the additional responder wire, current can run through the remote responder 8 and the central responder 4 between the phase carrying wire 12 and the neutral wire 11. In embodiments with electrical connection points that also implement a remote activator 9, the central responder 4 and remote responder 8 can also be activated by closing the remote activator 9.

[0068] Fig. 3 shows a simple configuration example, where only the central activator 5 and the remote responder 8 are provided.

[0069] Fig. 4 shows a configuration example, where the remote responder 8 and central responder 4 are connected between the responder wire and the phase carrying wire 12. Upon closing of the central activator switch, the responder wire 10 is connected to the neutral wire 11, whereby current can run between the phase carrying wire 12 and the neutral wire 11 and activate the remote responder 8 and the central responder 4.

[0070] Fig. 5 illustrates a distribution board of a branch circuit identification system. An electrical installation 1 is organized with branch circuits C1-C5 and components. The figure shows a distribution board with multiple circuit interrupters defining branch circuits C1-C5. Each circuit interrupter 3 includes a central activator and central responder 4. Power cables connect the circuit interrupters to electrical connection points (cf. Fig. 6). The schematic illustrates the connection of responder wires, neutral wires, and phase carrying wires, allowing activation of remote responders (cf. Fig. 6) at the electrical connection points (cf. Fig. 6) uponactivation of the central activators. Protective components like fuses and RCDs are present for overload protection and fault currents. Circuit details for both single-phase and three-phase systems are shown, demonstrating the system's components in a comprehensive layout.

[0071] The distribution board receives a power feed with 3 phases LI, L2, L3 and neutral N at the lower left comer through a set of fuses. The power feed is run through a 3-phase residual current device RCD to achieve residual currents protection for the users and appliances. The phases and neutral is then connected to several circuit interrupters, in this case a single 3- phase miniature circuit breaker MCB and four single-phase miniature breakers MCB.

[0072] Each of the five circuit interrupters comprises a central activator 5 according to the invention, here illustrated as a pushbutton. The central activators may be an integral part of the circuit interrupters, e.g. an integral part of circuit breakers and / or residual current devices or combinations thereof or other circuit interrupters, or the central activators may be separate devices installed next to each circuit interrupter 3. The latter may for example be advantageous for retrofitting in existing distribution boards, or when installing a distribution board using conventional circuit interrupters not having integrated central activators.

[0073] Each of the five circuit interrupters are also shown with a central responder 4, which is preferable, but optional, for the invention. As with the central activators, the central responders may be an integral part of the circuit interrupters, or be implemented in a separate device, preferably together with the central activators.

[0074] Each of the five circuit interrupters defines an electrical branch circuit C1-C5, respectively. The branch circuits C1-C5 are distributed throughout the building by power cables, each comprising at least one phase carrying wire 12 and the neutral wire 11 in order to power electrical appliances and lighting connected to the branch circuits. In the example of Fig. 5, branch circuit Cl comprises three phase carrying wires, and the other branch circuits C2-C5 comprise only a single phase carrying wire 12, each. In the specific example, branch circuits C2-C3 are connected to the first phase LI, and the branch circuits C4-C5 are connected to the second phase L2. Only the three-phase circuit Cl is using the third phase L3 according to the drawing for the sake of simplicity. Distribution boards in complex houses, commercial and industrial buildings, etc., typically defines considerably more circuits than illustrated. Preferably, all circuits C1-C5 also comprise a wire connected to protective earth PE, as illustrated.

[0075] The central activators, and optionally central responders, are each connected to phase carrying terminal L and neutral terminal N on the internal side of the circuit interrupter 3 but may alternatively be connected to a phase carrying and neutral terminals on the external side if local regulation allows. The latter will make the branch circuit identification possible even with open circuit breakers. The central activators and central responders are also connected to the responder wire 10 by the responder terminal R on the internal side. The responder wire 10 is also included in the power cables for each branch circuit C1-C5. Thereby, the power cable 6 for a single-phase circuit C2-C5 preferably comprises at least 4 wires, and the power cable 6 for a three-phase circuit Cl preferably comprises at least 6 wires.

[0076] The central activators may preferably be implemented by a switch, e.g. toggle switch, pushbutton, etc., arranged to make connection between the responder terminal R and, preferably, the a phase carrying terminal L, upon activation. The central responders are shown to each comprise a light source, but may also or alternatively comprise other attention means such as sound sources, vibrators, etc. The light source or other attention means is preferably a low-power means, e.g. a light emitting diode LED-based light source with appropriate driver means for being powered from a phase wire of the system. The connection and activation may be implemented as illustrated above with respect to any of Figs. 1-4, or below with respect to any of Figs. 7-8.

[0077] Fig. 6 displays branch circuits C1-C5 and electrical connection points in a branch circuit identification system. Multiple branch circuits C1-C5 are shown in an electrical installation 1. Each branch circuit C1-C5 is connected to a circuit interrupter 3 (cf. Fig. 5) and includes a power cable comprising responder wire 10, neutral wire 11, and phase carrying wires, as well as protective earth wires (not numbered). The electrical circuits C1-C5 illustrated may for example be the circuits defined by the distribution board of Fig. 5 as described above. The branch circuits C1-C5 lead to various electrical connection points equipped with remote responders, such as indicator lights. These components demonstrate how central activators (cf. Fig. 5) and remote responders can signal and identify respective branch circuits C1-C5 in the system.

[0078] The first branch circuit Cl in this example, is a three-phase circuit and comprises an electrical connection point 7 in the form of a junction box, where the circuit branches out to two three-phase sockets or outlets, for example IEC 6039-sockets, also referred to as CEE sockets. The outlets comprising the sockets are also electrical connection points. The secondbranch circuit C2 is a single-phase circuit and comprises in this simplified drawing only a single socket of the CEE / 3 type, also referred to as a Schuko socket. The outlet comprising the socket is an electrical connection point 7.

[0079] The third example branch circuit C3 is a single-phase circuit and comprises a wall- mounted lighting switch, also establishing an electrical connection point 7 according to the invention. The lighting switch is controlling the power to two light fittings. The light fittings are in this example only connected by three wires, i.e. a phase carrying wire 12 or switch wire, a neutral wire 11 and a protective earth wire. In an embodiment, the light fittings could also be implemented as electrical connection points according to the invention, including remote responders. The fourth example branch circuit C4 is a single-phase circuit which is not yet put into service, and simply ends in a junction box being an electrical connection point 7 according to the invention, for example being ready to serve as electrical circuit for a future expansion of the building. The fifth example branch circuit C5 is a single-phase circuit comprising three electrical connection points in the form of sockets of the CEE / 3 type, also referred to as Schuko sockets.

[0080] As can readily be seen from Figs. 5-6, even the few simple branch circuits C1-C5 with only a few consumers and electrical connections points each, the circuit layout quickly gets complex, and when preparing to replace or otherwise work on for example one of the Schuko sockets, it is not easy to reliably and with complete certainty determine which circuit breaker from Fig. 5 should be switched off, or which other electrical connection points are connected to the same Schuko socket., if the only information comes from circuit breaker markings and the general building room layout. These difficulty and safety issues even multiply considerably in real life installations with many more circuits, consumers and electrical connection points, and typically with no up-to-date drawing like Fig. 5 available.

[0081] In an embodiment of the invention, all the branch circuits C1-C5 in the example therefore has included in all the power cables that run to the electrical connection points, a responder wire 10, also when looping the power cable 6 on to the next electrical connection point 7, as for example seen in the fifth branch circuit C5. However, as for example seen in the third branch circuit C3, the responder wire 10 is not necessarily looped on to the light fittings in this example. In various embodiments, the responder wire 10 may be included with all cables in the installation, or only some cables according to practicality, costs and consideration of potential future maintenance on the installation.

[0082] Further, some or all of the electrical connection points comprise remote responders that can be activated by the respective connected circuit interrupter 3 (cf. Fig. 5). For example, the Schuko socket of the second branch circuit C2 comprises a responder terminal R and remote responder 8 connected to the responder wire 10 of the power cable 6. The professional may use the central activator 5 in the circuit interrupter (cf. Fig. 5) to connect a phase to the responder wire 10, which is connected to the remote responder 8, to activate the remote responder 8 and thereby indicate which electrical connection points are connected together to that circuit interrupter 3 and the second branch circuit C2.

[0083] Also, in some of the electrical connection points, are illustrated remote activators, here in the form of pushbuttons, whereby the central responder 4 and remote responders may be activated from the remote location of the electrical connection point 7 in certain embodiments. In order to neither make a remote activator 9 available to ordinary user, nor require disassembly of the socket for activation, the remote activator 9 may for example be implemented as a magnetically activated reed switch, or other proximity switch that operates through the cover. The same may be apply to the central activators in the current interrupters.

[0084] The electrical connections, terminals, responders and activators of Figs. 5 and 6 are merely shown as block diagrams. Various implementations are possible, and the implementation may be different for different kinds of electrical connection points, product lines, manufacturers, etc. In principle, any means for allowing temporary contact to be made between a phase carrying wire 12 and the responder wire 10 is within the scope of the invention. Preferred embodiments provide a safe and user-friendly switch mechanism for this purpose, such as a microswitch, a push button, a screw making contact when fastened, etc.

[0085] Switches for the central activator 5 and optional remote activator, should preferably be turned off after use, in order to deactivate the remote responder 8 in the electrical connection point 7, and optional central responder 4 in the current interrupter. To ensure this, switch types that automatically return to open mode are preferred, e.g. push buttons, microswitches, etc. To allow the responder to be activated long enough for the professional to walk around the building to identify the branch circuit and one or more electrical connection points, the remote responders may comprise a timer or delay circuit as described above. Alternatively, such timer or delay circuitry may be provided in relation to the central activator switch, either as a mechanical feature of the switch mechanism, or electronically, e.g. by means of a capacitor arranged to charge fast and discharge slowly as described above.

[0086] Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate more specific examples of an electrical installation 1 for 400V and 230V configurations, respectively.

[0087] Fig. 7 depicts a panel housing a combination relay with an integrated detector button. The connection from the LI terminal to the detector button and the R terminal is established, allowing the indicator light on the combination relay to illuminate upon activation of the detector button. The cable extending from the combination relay to a 400V power plug includes the extra conductor R, which connects to the responder terminal R in the power plug, enabling the indicator light in the power plug to illuminate in conjunction with the relay's indicator light. Fig. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a branch circuit identification system including a distribution board and an electrical connection point. The figure shows a distribution board containing a circuit interrupter with a central activator 5 connected via a responder wire to a remote responder 8 and an optional remote activator at an electrical connection point 7. The setup includes a power cable, which besides the responder wire 10, also includes conventional phase carrying wires, a neutral wire 11, and a protective earth connection. The circuit interrupter 3 also has terminals for phase LI, L2, L3, and neutral N wires. The remote responder 8 is connected between the neutral wire 11 and the responder wire 10 to activate an indicator or sound upon signal reception from the central activator 5.

[0088] Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a 400V electrical installation system of the present invention comprising a distribution board with a residual-current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection RCBO. The RCBO has an integrated central activator button in addition to the fault current test button T, and optionally an indication light. The central activator 5 is provided with a fixed connection to one of the phase carrying terminals, here LI, and with a fixed connection to an additional terminal R. A cable runs from the RCBO to a 400V CEE socket which has an additional integrated terminal R. The cable includes an additional wire. This additional wire is connected to the additional terminal R in the RCBO and to the additional terminal R in the socket. The socket has an indicator light connected between the neutral wire 11 and the additional wire. Upon activation of the central activator 5 in the RCBO, a connection is established between a phase carrying terminal LI and the additional wire in the cable, whereby current flows through the indicator light in the socket and optional indicator light in the RCBO. The relationship between the RCBO and the correct branch circuit and all its electrical connection points such as CEE socket is thereby detected,and the power in the socket can be turned off by deactivating the detected RCBO before performing maintenance of the socket.

[0089] Fig. 8 presents a panel containing a circuit breaker with a similar configuration as in Fig. 7. The detector button on the circuit breaker activates the indicator lights, 8, within the circuit breaker and the socket, respectively. Both the circuit breaker and the socket feature an extra terminal R for the additional conductor of the cable. The illumination of the indicator lights, 8, upon activation of the detector button confirms the relationship between the circuit breaker, the branch circuit and all its sockets, including the illustrated socket. Fig. 8 shows an electrical installation 1 with a distribution board, circuit interrupter 3, power cable 6, and electrical connection point 7. The circuit interrupter 3 includes a central activator and a central responder 4. The power cable 6 consists of a responder wire 10, a neutral wire 11, a phase carrying wire 12 and a protective earth wire. At the electrical connection point 7, there is a remote responder 8 and a remote activator 9. The responder wire 10 links the central activator to the remote responder 8. The phase carrying wire 12 is connected to the corresponding terminal, and the system activates the remote responder 8 upon activation of the central activator 5.

[0090] Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a 230V electrical installation 1 of the present invention comprising a distribution board with a miniature circuit breaker MCB. On the MCB is integrated a central activator 5, and optionally an indication light. The central activator 5 is connected between a phase carrying terminal L and an additional terminal R. From the MCB runs a cable to a 230V socket with an integrated additional terminal R. The cable includes an additional wire. This additional wire is connected to the central activator 5, as well as an indicator light of the socket. The indicator light of the socket is connected between the additional terminal R and the neutral terminal N. To make the indicator light turn on, the central activator 5 is activated, causing current to flow between the phase carrying terminal L, via the additional wire, through the indicator light, to the neutral terminal N. From the MCB is thereby identified which branch circuit and sockets, including the socket, belong to that circuit interrupter 3, and the power to the branch circuit, including socket can be turned off for maintenance work.

[0091] List of reference signs:1 Electrical installation2 Distribution board3 Circuit interrupter, such as an MCB, RCD or RCBO4 Central responder5 Central activator6 Power cable7 Electrical connection point, such as a socket8 Remote responder9 Remote activator10 Responder wire11 Neutral wire, also referred to as N12 Phase carrying wire, also referred to as L, LI, L2, L3R Responder wire terminalN Neutral wire terminalL, LI, L2, L3 Phase carrying wire terminalPE Earth wire terminalC1-C5 Branch circuits defined by circuit interrupters

Claims

Claims1. A system for identifying branch circuits (C1-C5) in an electrical installation (1), the system comprising a plurality of circuit interrupters (3) arranged in a distribution board (2) and a plurality of electrical connection points (7), such as sockets, distributed in a building, and each electrical connection point (7) being connected to one of the circuit interrupters (3) by means of a power cable (6) so that each circuit interrupter (3) defines a branch circuit (C1-C5) having a number of electrical connection points; characterized in that: in at least one of the branch circuits (C1-C5), the circuit interrupter (3) comprises a central activator (5) such as a switch, at least one of the electrical connection points (7) of the same branch circuit (C1-C5) comprises a remote responder (8) such as an indicator light or sounding body, and the power cable (6) of the same branch circuit (C1-C5) comprises at least a responder wire (10), a neutral wire (11) and one or more phase carrying wires (12), the responder wire (10) connecting the central activator (5) of the circuit interrupter (3) with the remote responder (8) of the electrical connection point (7); and wherein the system is arranged to activate the remote responder (8) upon activation of the central activator (5).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the remote responder (8) of the electrical connection point (7) is connected between the responder wire (10) and the neutral wire (11), and the central activator (5) of the circuit interrupter (3) is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder wire (10) and one of the one or more phase carrying wires (12); or wherein the remote responder (8) of the electrical connection point (7) is connected between the responder wire (10) and one of the one or more phase carrying wires (12), and the central activator (5) of the circuit interrupter (3) is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder wire (10) and the neutral wire (11).

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the central activator (5) comprises a switch that closes upon said activation.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the switch of the central activator (5) is selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable intocontact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head.

5. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the remote responder (8) is configured to perform one or more of the following when activated: emit light, flash, vibrate or emit sound.

6. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the power cable (6) further comprises a protective earth wire and / or one or more switch wires; and / or wherein the power cable (6) is a collection of wires (10, 11, 12) preferably run in a common jacket or common conduit.

7. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit interrupter (3) is configured to interrupt at least one phase carrying wire (12) and a neutral wire (11) in case of an overcurrent and / or a residual current in the corresponding branch circuit; and / or wherein the circuit interrupter (3) is selected from the list of a fuse, a circuit breaker, a miniature circuit breaker MCB, a residual-current device RCD, a residual-current circuit breaker with overcurrent protection RCBO, a ground fault circuit interrupter GFCI, a ground fault interrupter GFI, and an appliance leakage current interrupter ALCI.

8. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one electrical connection point (7) comprising said remote responder (8) is selected from the list of a one-phase socket, a three-phase socket, a split-phase socket, a lighting switch, a safety switch, a junction box, a ceiling rose, a light outlet, a light fitting, and an industrial socket.

9. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical installation is a 230V AC system, a 400V AC system, a 230 / 400V AC system, or a 110-120V AC system.

10. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the circuit interrupter (3), in addition to the central activator (5), comprises a central responder (4) such as an indicator light or sounding body; and preferably wherein the system is arranged to activate the central responder (4) upon activation of the central activator (5) in addition to activating the remote responder (8).

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the central responder (4) of the circuit interrupter (3) is connected between the same two wires (10, 11, 12) as the remote responder (8) of the electrical installation point (7).

12. The system of claim 10 or 11, wherein at least one of the electrical connection points (7) of the same branch circuit (C1-C5) comprises a remote activator (9) such as a switch; wherein the responder wire (10) of the power cable (6) further connects the remote activator (9) of the electrical connection point (7) with the central responder (4) of the circuit interrupter (3); wherein the remote activator (9) is arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the same two wires (10, 11, 12) as the central activator (5) of the circuit interrupter (3), and wherein the system is arranged to activate the central responder (4), and preferably the remote responder (8), upon activation of the remote activator (9).

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the remote activator (9) comprises a switch that closes upon said activation, such as a switch selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable into contact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head.

14. The system of any of the claims 10-13, wherein the central responder (4) is configured to perform one or more of the following when activated: emit light, flash, vibrate or emit sound.

15. A circuit interrupter (3) comprising a neutral terminal (N) for connection of a neutral wire (11) of a power cable (6) and at least one phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) for connection of at least one phase carrying wire (12) of the power cable (6), and the circuit interrupter (3) being configured to interrupt said neutral terminal (N) and at least one phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) in case of overcurrent and / or residual current in the circuit; characterized in that the circuit interrupter (3) comprises a responder terminal (R) for connection of a responder wire (10) of said power cable (6), and the circuit interrupter (3) comprises a central activator (5) such as a switch, arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and either one of the phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) or the neutral terminal (N).

16. The circuit interrupter (3) of claim 15, wherein the central activator (5) comprises a switch that closes upon said activation.

17. The circuit interrupter (3) of claim 16, wherein the switch of the central activator (5) is selected from the list of a tumbler switch, a microswitch, a push button switch, a reed switch, a changeover switch, a screw configured to make contact when fastened, a spring-loaded pin or sheet metal configured to be pushed into contact, a piece of bare wire configured to be movable into contact, and a narrow gap between two terminals configured to be connected by means of a conducting tool such as a screwdriver head.

18. The circuit interrupter (3) of any of claims 15-17, further comprising a central responder (4) such as an indicator light or sounding body, connected between the responder terminal (R) and the neutral terminal (N) when the central activator (5) is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and one of the phase carrying terminals (L, LI, L2, L3), or connected between the responder terminal (R) and one of the phase carrying terminals (L, LI, L2, L3) when the central activator (5) is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and the neutral terminal (N).

19. The circuit interrupter (3) of claim 18, wherein the central responder (4) is arranged to be activated upon activation of the central activator (5), and / or upon activation of the responder terminal (R).

20. A distribution board (2) comprising two or more circuit interrupters (3) each defining a branch circuit (C1-C5); wherein the circuit interrupters (3) are circuit interrupters (3) according to any of claims 15-19.

21. An electrical connection point (7), such as a socket, comprising a neutral terminal (N) for connection of a neutral wire (11) of a power cable (6) and at least one phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) for connection of at least one phase carrying wire (12) of the power cable (6), and the electrical connection point (7) being configured to provide user access to connecting or switching electrical appliances such as lamps, electronic devices, or major appliances such as washing machines between said neutral terminal (N) and at least one phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3); characterized in that the electrical connection point (7) comprises a responder terminal (R) for connection of a responder wire (10) of said power cable (6), and the electrical connection point (7) comprises a remote responder (8) such as an indicator light or sounding body, connected between the responder terminal (R) and either one of thephase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) or the neutral terminal (N), and being arranged to be activated upon activation of the responder terminal (R).

22. The electrical connection point (7) of claim 21, further comprising a remote activator (9) such as a switch, arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and the phase carrying terminal (L, LI, L2, L3) when the remote responder (8) is connected between the responder terminal (R) and the neutral terminal (N), or arranged to establish, upon activation, electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and the neutral terminal (N) when the central activator (5) is arranged to establish electrical contact between the responder terminal (R) and one of the phase carrying terminals (L, LI, L2, L3).

23. The electrical connection point (7) of claim 22, wherein the remote responder (8) is arranged to further be activated upon activation of the remote activator (9).

24. The circuit interrupter (3) according to any of claims 15-19, the distribution board (2) according to claim 20, or the electrical connection point (7) according to any of claims 21-23, for use in a system according to any of claims 1-14.

25. A method for identifying branch circuits (C1-C5) in an electrical installation (1) comprising a plurality of circuit interrupters (3) arranged in a distribution board (2) and a plurality of electrical connection points (7), such as sockets, distributed in a building, and each electrical connection point (7) being connected to one of the circuit interrupters (3) by means of a power cable (6) so that each circuit interrupter (3) defines a branch circuit (C1-C5) having a number of electrical connection points (7); wherein, in at least one of the branch circuits (C1-C5), the circuit interrupter (3) comprises a central activator (5) such as a switch, at least one of the electrical connection points (7) of the same branch circuit (C1-C5) comprises a remote responder (8) such as an indicator light or sounding body, and the power cable (6) of the same branch circuit (C1-C5) comprises at least a responder wire (10), a neutral wire (11) and one or more phase carrying wires (12), the responder wire (10) connecting the central activator (5) of the circuit interrupter (3) with the remote responder (8) of the electrical connection point (7); and wherein the method comprises: activating the central activator (5) of a particular one of the circuit interrupters (3);establishing, upon the activation of the central activator (5), electrical contact between the responder wire (10) and either one of the phase carrying wires (12) or the neutral wire (i i); activating the remote responder (8), such as turning on a light or a sound, connected to the central activator (5) through the responder wire (10); and identifying the branch circuit (C1-C5) as comprising the particular one circuit interrupter (3) with activated central activator (5) and the at least one electrical connection point (7) with activated remote responders (8).

26. The method for identifying branch circuits (C1-C5) of claim 25, wherein the method is carried out in a system according to any of claims 1-14, and / or using the circuit interrupter (3) according to any of claims 15-19, the distribution board (2) according to claim 20, or the electrical connection point (7) according to any of claims 21-23.

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