Switchgear arrangement

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a switchgear arrangement (200) comprising two or more interconnected switchgear modules. Each switchgear module (100) comprises: an input (102) connected to a power source (310) and configured to receive an input current from the power source (310), an output (104) connected to a load (320) and configured to provide an output current to the load (320), a switching circuit (110) connected between the input (102) and the output (104), and a controller (120) configured to control the switching circuit (110) to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit (110) or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit (110), and a communication interface (130) communicatively interconnecting the controller (120) to controllers (120´) of other switchgear modules (100´) of the switchgear arrangement (200), wherein the controller (120) is configured to: receive a first control signal (210) from a controller (120´) of another switchgear module (100´) via the communication interface (130), the first control signal (210) indicating a first control command (C1) for controlling the switching circuit (110), and control the switching circuit (110) based on the first control command (C1); or transmit a second control signal (220) to a controller (120´) of another switchgear module (100´) via the communication interface (130), the second control signal (220) indicating a second control command (C2) for controlling a switching circuit (110´) of the another switchgear module (100´). Furthermore, the disclosure also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

[0001] SWITCHGEAR ARRANGEMENT

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The disclosure relates to a switchgear arrangement comprising two or more interconnected switchgear modules. Furthermore, the disclosure also relates to a corresponding method.

[0004] Background

[0005] A conventional multipole switchgear unit, especially a circuit breaker, employes a mechanical system to ensure the simultaneous opening / closing of the different electrical poles of a mechanical switchgear arrangement.

[0006] Mechanical links, or special mechanical harnesses with interlinks and springs are used to interconnect the different pole units. The mechanical system usually contains simple mechanical interconnections but can also be more complex and contain an assembly of springs, or even power assistance in the form of motors.

[0007] Thus, a traditional switchgear system is slow in response, but also complex and susceptible to all types of faults and failures due to its mechanical design.

[0008] Summary

[0009] An objective of embodiments of the disclosure is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves the drawbacks of conventional solutions.

[0010] Another objective of embodiments of the disclosure is to provide a switchgear arrangement providing improved flexibility compared to conventional solutions.

[0011] The above and further objectives are solved by the subject matter of the appended independent claims.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, the above mentioned and other objectives are achieved with a switchgear arrangement comprising two or more switchgear modules, wherein each switchgear module comprises: an input connected to a power source and configured to receive an input current from the power source, an outputconnected to a load and configured to provide an output current to the load, a switching circuit connected between the input and the output, and a controller configured to control the switching circuit to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit, and a communication interface communicatively interconnecting the controller to controllers of other switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement, wherein the controller is configured to:

[0013] mode A) receive a first control signal from a controller of another switchgear module via the communication interface, the first control signal indicating a first control command for controlling the switching circuit, and control the switching circuit based on the first control command; or

[0014] mode B) transmit a second control signal to a controller of another switchgear module via the communication interface, the second control signal indicating a second control command for controlling a switching circuit of the another switchgear module.

[0015] One switchgear module of the switchgear arrangement may be denoted a first switchgear module while another switchgear module of the switchgear arrangement may be denoted a second switchgear module so as to distinguish them from each other. Thus, also controllers, power supplies, measurement means etc. may be labelled first, second, third, etc.

[0016] An advantage of the switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect is that a flexible switchgear arrangement is provided suitable for many different types of applications. The number of switchgear modules used can be adapted to different applications with different electrical requirements such as current requirement, voltage requirement, power requirement, etc. Furthermore, new functionalities can easily be implemented by the present switchgear arrangement due to its capabilities and properties. Thereby, also the performance of the switchgear arrangement can be improved compared to conventional solutions.

[0017] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, each switchgear module comprises a power supply configured to supply power to the controller.An advantage with this embodiment form is that the controller is powered.

[0018] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the power supply is connected to a common power circuit interconnecting the separate switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement.

[0019] Thereby, the separate switchgear modules can share a common power circuit for powering their controllers.

[0020] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, each switchgear module comprises a measuring means configured to obtain first measurements at the input and / or the output and to provide the first measurements to the controller.

[0021] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the first measurements are electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements.

[0022] These types of measurements are relevant as input to control algorithms for controlling switching circuits of the switchgear arrangement.

[0023] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the electrical measurements comprise any of: a voltage measurement, a current measurement, a frequency measurement, and an impedance measurement.

[0024] The electrical measurements give direct information about the electrical characteristics and conditions of the switchgear module. This information is important for controlling the switching circuits.

[0025] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the environmental measurements comprise any of temperature measurements and humidity measurements.

[0026] The environmental measurements give indirect information about the electrical characteristics and conditions of the switchgear module. This information is importantfor controlling the switching circuits. The environmental measurements may be inside and / or outside the switchgear module.

[0027] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the controller is configured to:

[0028] transmit the first measurements to the controller of the another switchgear module, or

[0029] determine the second control command based on the first measurements.

[0030] Thereby, the first measurements may either be used as input to a controller acting as a master controller or to a remote master controller in a control algorithm for controlling individual switchgear modules or all switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement.

[0031] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the controller is configured to:

[0032] receive second measurements from the controller of the another switchgear module, and

[0033] determine the second control command further based on the second measurements.

[0034] Thereby, the controller acting as a master controller can use the second measurements in a control algorithm.

[0035] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the second measurements are electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements.

[0036] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the switching circuit comprises a solid-state switch configured to either operate in the conductive mode or in the non-conductive mode.

[0037] Thereby, fast switching is made possible for improved personal safety as well as securing safe operation of electrical hardware.In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the solid-state switch comprises at least one transistor connected between the input and the output.

[0038] Thereby, fast switching is made possible at low cost.

[0039] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the solid-state switch comprises at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input and the output in a first current direction.

[0040] Thereby, the current / voltage can be divided between multiple transistors.

[0041] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the solid-state switch comprises at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input and the output in a second current direction opposite to the first current direction.

[0042] Thereby, reversed polarity in DC and AC applications can be handled by the present switchgear arrangement.

[0043] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the switching circuit comprises at least one protective clamping circuit configured to protect the transistors.

[0044] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the switching circuit further comprises a relay serially connected with the solid-state switch between the input and the output and configured to either operate in a galvanic mode in which the input is in galvanic contact with the output or in a non-galvanic mode in which the input is galvanically isolated from the output.

[0045] Thereby, personal safety is improved due to the possibility of galvanic isolation provided by the relay.In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the solid-state switch is in the conductive mode when the relay is in the galvanic mode; or

[0046] the solid-state switch is in the conductive mode when the relay is in the non-galvanic mode; or

[0047] the solid-state switch is in the non-conductive mode when the relay is in the non-galvanic mode.

[0048] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the switchgear module comprises a user interface configured to receive an input from a user of the switchgear arrangement and provide the input to the controller.

[0049] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, the controller is configured to operate according to either procedure / mode A) or procedure / mode B) based on the input from the user.

[0050] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, each switchgear module comprises a mechanical housing physically / mechanically separating the switchgear module from other switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement.

[0051] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, at least two switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement are connected to the same power source.

[0052] Thereby, improved flexibility in respect of input power to the switchgear arrangement is made possible.

[0053] In an embodiment of a switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect, at least two switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement are connected to the same load.

[0054] Thereby, improved flexibility in respect of output power from the switchgear arrangement to the load(s) is possible.According to a second aspect of the disclosure, the above mentioned and other objectives are achieved with a method for a switchgear arrangement comprising two or more switchgear modules, wherein each switchgear module comprises: an input connected to a power source and configured to receive an input current from the power source, an output connected to a load and configured to provide an output current to the load, a switching circuit connected between the input and the output, and a controller configured to control the switching circuit to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit, and a communication interface communicatively interconnecting the controller to controllers of other switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement, the method comprising:

[0055] mode A) receiving a first control signal from a controller of another switchgear module via the communication interface, the first control signal indicating a first control command for controlling the switching circuit, and control the switching circuit based on the first control command; or

[0056] mode B) transmitting a second control signal to a controller of another switchgear module via the communication interface, the second control signal indicating a second control command for controlling a switching circuit of the another switchgear module.

[0057] The method may be adapted in accordance with the above-mentioned embodiments of the switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect. The advantages of the method are the same as the advantages of the corresponding embodiments of the switchgear arrangement according to the first aspect.

[0058] According to further aspects of the present disclosure, the herein described methods are implemented by use of computer program products comprising instructions which, when the programs are executed by a computer, such as e.g., a control unit, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the methods according to any one of the herein described embodiments.

[0059] Further applications and advantages of embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0060] The appended drawings are intended to clarify and explain different embodiments of the disclosure, in which:

[0061] - Fig. 1 illustrates a switchgear arrangement according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0062] - Fig. 2 illustrates the interaction between two switchgear modules of a switchgear arrangement according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0063] - Fig. 3 shows a switchgear module in more detail according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0064] - Fig. 4 shows a solid-state switch according to embodiments of the disclosure; - Fig. 5 shows a solid-state switch with a clamping circuit according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0065] - Fig. 6 illustrates a switchgear arrangement with an input circuit and an output circuit according to embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0066] - Fig. 7 shows a flow chart of a method according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0067] Detailed Description

[0068] An interconnect switchgear by wired or wireless electrical system can avoid many of the faults of mechanical systems by substituting the mechanical interlinks with an electrical or electronic system. More precisely, the mechanical interlinks between the different pole units can be substituted with electrical communication in an electronic interconnect system herein disclosed. The electronic interconnect system can also enable novel functionality and innovative features for a multipole switchgear. For example, it allows for the flexible design of switchgear units at customer sites instead of factory pre-assembled or moving the main control unit to a physically different location than the locations distributed controlled units.

[0069] Fig. 1 illustrates a switchgear arrangement 200 and Fig. 2 illustrates the interaction between two switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement 200 according to embodiments of the disclosure. With reference to Fig. 1 and 2, the switchgear arrangement 200 comprises two or more switchgear modules 100, 100', i.e., at least two interconnected switchgear modules. Each switchgear module 100 of the switchgear arrangement 200 comprises an input 102 connected to a power source 310and configured to receive an input current from the power source 310, and an output 104 connected to a load 320 and configured to provide an output current to the load 320. The input 102 may be denoted an input terminal and the output 104 mat be denoted an output terminal.

[0070] It is noted that the input 102 can act as an output and the output 104 can act as an input for currents with reversed polarity in a DC application or in a pure AC application. In such cases, the power source 310 may be treated as a load while the load 320 may be treated as a power source. The power source 310 is any electrical source configured to provide electrical power / current such as a power grid, batteries and capacitors. The load 320 is any electrical device or component that needs electrical power for its functioning such as electrical motors, electrical appliances, and lights.

[0071] Each switchgear module 100 further comprises a switching circuit 110 connected between the input 102 and the output 104, and also a controller 120 configured to control the switching circuit 110 to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit 110 or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit 110.

[0072] Thus, in the conductive mode, a current from the power source 310 will pass through the switchgear module 100 directly to the load 320. This implies that the switching circuit 110 is directly connected to the power source 310 and the load 320, respectively.

[0073] The switchgear module 100 also comprises a communication interface 130 or communication bus 130 communicatively interconnecting the controller 120 to controllers 120' of other switchgear modules 100' of the switchgear arrangement 200. The switching circuit 110 is used by the controller 120 to control the current flow on the line between the input 102 and the output 104. More specifically, if a current can pass or not pass through the switching circuit 110 to the load 320.

[0074] The communication interface / bus 130 may be configured according to standardized communication protocols defining control signals and signaling content. However, also non-standardized communication interfaces may be employed for the communication between the switchgear modules of the switchgear arrangement 200. The hereindisclosed communications may be wired using communication lines and / or be wireless.

[0075] The (first) controller 120 is configured to either: mode A) receive a first control signal 210 from a controller 120' of another (second) switchgear module 100' via the communication interface 130, the first control signal 210 indicating a first control command C1 for controlling the (first) switching circuit 110, and control the (first) switching circuit 110 based on the first control command C1 ; or mode B) transmit a second control signal 220 to a (second) controller 120' of another (second) switchgear module 100' via the communication interface 130, the second control signal 220 indicating a second control command C2 for controlling a (second) switching circuit 110' of the another (second) switchgear module 100'. Thus, each switchgear module 100 may act as a slave unit according to procedure A) or a master or a main unit according to procedure B) depending on the application. The control commands may be a flag indicated by a single bit or as a Boolean for reducing the overhead in the communication between the different controllers.

[0076] It is thus noted that the switchgear module 100 may be denoted a first switchgear module 100 and the another switchgear module or other switchgear modules may be denoted a second switchgear module or second switchgear modules where the terms “first” and “second” are labels only in this specific context. Thus, also the parts or units of the first switchgear module 100 may be labelled “first” such as a first controller, a first switching circuit 110, etc., and correspondingly the parts or units of the second switchgear module 100 may be labelled “second” such as a second controller, a second switching circuit 110, etc.

[0077] Furthermore, the communication between the switchgear modules may be constrained in time and thus latency requirements for the exchange of control signals may be considered. Thus, in embodiments of the invention, the latency requirements may be in the millisecond range and preferable in the microsecond range.

[0078] Moreover, the synchronization of the switchgear modules may have to be considered in conjunction with the mentioned latency requirements. The synchronization may be achieved by the use of clock signals.In an example, a common clock signal is provided to each switchgear module. Thus, the controller of the switchgear module may be configured to receive the common clock signal and synchronize its operation based on the received clock signal. The operation involves controlling the switching circuit 110 and possibly other functions.

[0079] In an example, the first control signal 210 may further comprise or carry a synchronization signal or sequence. Thus, the controller of each switchgear module 100 may be configured to receive the first control signal 210 comprising the synchronization signal or sequence and synchronize its operation based on the synchronization signal or sequence.

[0080] The transmission frequency of the clock signal and the first control signal 210 have to be high enough so that proper synchronization of the controller is achieved. Mentioned transmission frequency may be based on the latency requirements

[0081] In embodiments of the disclosure, each switchgear module 100 may comprise its own housing 170 physically and / or mechanically separating the switchgear module 100 from other switchgear modules 100' of the switchgear arrangement 200. The housing 170 provides mechanical protection as well as electrical isolation and may be formed of any suitable material in this respect. Naturally, the switchgear arrangement 200 may also include a common housing or cover (not shown in the Figs.) inside which multiple switchgear modules 100 are arranged. The common housing or cover may protect the whole switchgear arrangement 200. Each switchgear module may be arranged in its housing inside a common housing.

[0082] Several switchgear modules 100 can be deployed and controlled in a group configuration or in a group setup. In such a group configuration, the two or more switchgear modules can be configured to act as multipole switchgear, e.g., 3-phase circuit breakers, motor starters, etc. Further, in such group configuration, one of the switchgear modules may be elected or selected as the main unit of the group configuration while the other switchgear modules are elected as slave units. The switchgear modules belonging to this setup may communicate over the shared communication interface / bus 130, and can exchange control commands / messages,status updates, software updates, and measurements with each other. Therefore, the control commands C1 , C2 transmitted between the switchgear modules may represent such a group configuration, where each group configuration provides a function of the switchgear arrangement 200. By programing or instructions, one function among multiple functions F1 , F2, ..., Fn is selected to be applied at each time instance for the switchgear arrangement 200.

[0083] Therefore, each group configuration may comprise a set of particular control commands or control messages which are used and propagated in the switchgear arrangement 200 so as to realize the corresponding function of the switchgear arrangement 200. The control commands and control messages may be sent by a master controller or unit.

[0084] Non-limiting applications of different group configurations corresponding to different functions F1 , F2, ..., Fn are given below. Thus, each group configuration may correspond to a control message sent to the switchgear modules.

[0085] F1 - Creating higher level functions

[0086] A ground fault breaker or residual current breaker (RCB) measures the current that flows via the phase(s) to the load(s) and back via neutral wire with a differential current sensor configured to detect difference in current values. If the difference of current flowing to the load 320 and back is above a certain threshold value, e.g., 5mA, the switchgear module trips, i.e., opens the switching circuit 110 into conductive mode.

[0087] According to embodiments of the present solution, all other switchgear modules 100 may send their measurements to a master / main switchgear module, which computes the current difference and decides about the tripping for all involved switchgear modules in a specific setup or configuration. In case of tripping, the tripping of the switchgear modules may be organized via the digital communication interface by transmission of the first C1 and second C2 control commands.

[0088] F2 - Load sharding

[0089] Each switchgear module 100 may be configured to handle a certain amount of nominal current. For a mechanical unit, this means that it cannot handle loads with a highercurrent demand. Mechanical protection units, like breakers, cannot be placed in parallel to provide more current support, as the tripping behavior of every mechanical device has a high tolerance as it depends on the individual material and design used. This can lead to imbalances during tripping with severe results for the electrical system.

[0090] According to embodiments of the present solution, the tripping behavior of the switchgear module 100 is significantly faster and predictable due to its electronic components. This means that several switchgear modules can be configured to operate in parallel with each other and share the same load 320 with the result of being able to feed and protect the load 320 that takes a much higher load current than their individual nominal currents.

[0091] F3 - Distribution of control

[0092] In mechanical switchgear, the control is directly connected to the unit, e.g., via a handle or button, as the mechanism controls an internal mechanical part. Therefore, the means of control and the controlled part are directly connected.

[0093] According to embodiments of the present solution, the controller 120 i.e., the unit or device that analyses data and generates and sends the control commands, can be arranged at another physically location than the units that are connected to the electrical poles, and the control signals are submitted digitally via the communication interface 130.

[0094] F4 - Software defined

[0095] The function of the switchgear module may be defined by its software configuration. This means e.g., tripping behavior, conditions that lead to opening closing, locally or remotely controlled, automatically or manually, etc. is dependent on its software configuration. Combining several switchgear modules together, and communicating over the digital communication interface 130, allows the multiple switchgear modules to handle unlimited number of different applications.

[0096] Furthermore, Fig. 3 shows a switchgear module 100 in more detail according to embodiments of the disclosure. In embodiments of the disclosure, each switchgear module 100 may comprise a power supply 140 configured to feed and supply powerto the controller 120. Thereby, the controller 120 is fed with power for its functioning and is hence properly powered. The herein disclosed controller 120 comprises all necessary parts, elements, units, and devices so as to be able to execute its functions. Non-limiting examples of such necessary parts, elements, units, and devices are processors, logic, memory, transceivers, communication interfaces / buses, sensors, and control algorithms. The controller 120 may run a control software including a control algorithm, communicate with the other controllers via the internal communication interface 130 and operate the internal system of its switchgear module 100.

[0097] In examples of the invention, the power supply 140 may be an energy harvesting circuit configured to harvest energy of the current passing between the input 102 and the output 104 of the module 100. Hence, in this example, the power supply unit 140 is completely located inside its own switchgear module 100. In another example, the power supply 140 instead comprises a common power circuit 142 interconnecting the separate switchgear modules 100, 100' of the switchgear arrangement 200. In this case, the switchgear arrangement 200 has a common power supply configured to feed power to the separate controllers of the separate switchgear modules. The internal power may be supplied using a power feeding interface such as a DC bus e.g., having wired power lines connected to each controller of each switchgear module 100.

[0098] It is further considered that measurements may be used by the controller 120 for controlling the switching circuit 110. Therefore, in embodiments of the disclosure, each switchgear module 100 comprises measuring means 150 configured to obtain first measurements M1 at the input 102 and / or the output 104 and to provide the first measurements M1 to the controller 120. These first measurements may be electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements. These measurements may be provided by suitable measurement sensors and measurement means in communication with the controller 120.

[0099] The electrical measurements may comprise any of a voltage measurement, a current measurement, a frequency measurement, and / or an impedance measurement. The electrical measurements provide direct information about the electrical condition and characteristics of each switchgear module 100. This information is used in a controlalgorithm for controlling the switchgear arrangement 200. The electrical measurements may be carried in control signaling between the different controllers. Control commands and control messages may indicate the electrical measurements.

[0100] The environmental measurements relate to the environmental of the switchgear arrangement 200 and may therefore be temperature, humidity and other parameters impacting the electrical functions of the switchgear arrangement 200. The environmental measurements provide indirect information about the electrical condition and characteristics of each switchgear module 100. Thus, also this information may be important to consider when controlling the switchgear arrangement 200. The environmental measurements may be carried in control signaling between the different controllers. Control command and messages may indicate the environmental measurements.

[0101] The controller 120 may use the first measurements M1 in two different ways depending on whether the controller 120 is a master unit or a slave unit. In the case the controller 120 acts as a slave, the controller 120 may transmit the first measurements M1 to the controller 120' of the another switchgear module 100' which is acting as the master unit. However, if the controller 120 instead acts as a master, the controller 120 may determine the second control command C2 based on the first measurements M1. By transmitting the second control command C2 to one or more slave units, the master unit controls the switching of the slave units e.g., in a group configuration so as to implement a function.

[0102] The controller 120 may also use measurements from one or more other switchgear modules. Thus, in embodiments of the invention, the controller 120 may further be configured to receive second measurements M2 from the controller 120' of the another switchgear module 100', and determine the second control command C2 further based on the second measurements M2. Thereby, the controller 120 acting as a master unit may receive measurements from the slave units and uses the received measurements in a control algorithm for generating second control commands C2. The second measurements M2 may as the first measurements M1 be electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements.Fig. 4 shows a solid-state switch forming the switching circuit 110 according to embodiments of the disclosure. Hence, the switching circuit 110 may comprise at least one solid-state switch 112 configured to either operate in the conductive mode or in the non-conductive mode. Examples of solid-state switches are transistors.

[0103] In the simplest design, the solid-state switch 112 comprises at least one transistor T connected between the input 102 and the output 104, thereby blocking or non-blocking current flow between the input 102 and the output 104 depending on its states. The transistor may be any suitable transistor such as MOSFET, JFET, and IGBT.

[0104] However, in further embodiments of the disclosure, the solid-state switch 112 may comprise at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input 102 and the output 104 in a first current direction CD1. Thereby, the input current may be divided between the parallel transistors. This means that transistors having lower rating may be used in the present solid-state switch 112 meaning cheaper components when producing the herein disclosed switching circuit 110.

[0105] When reversed polarity is applied in DC applications between the input 102 and the output 104 or when AC is applied, the solid-state switch 112 may comprise at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input 102 and the output 104 in a second current direction CD2 opposite to the first current direction CD1. Thus, the two transistors are connected in opposite current directions in relation to each other. Thereby, it is safeguarded that both current directions are handled by the present switchgear arrangement 200.

[0106] The example in Fig. 4 shows three parallel transistors in each current direction CD1 and CD2. It is however noted that the solid-state switch 112 may comprise any number of parallel transistors so as to divide the current passing through the solid-state switch 112 in parallel currents. By having more parallel transistors, the current / voltage may be divided further and this means that cheaper and lower rated transistors may be used when producing the switching circuit 110.

[0107] The switching circuit 110 may further comprise a relay or a relay circuit 114 being serially connected with the solid-state switch 112 between the input 102 and the output104. The relay 114 provides the possibility of galvanic separation and isolation between the input 102 and the output 104. Thus, the relay 114 is configured to either operate in a galvanic mode in which the input 102 is in galvanic contact with the output 104 or in a non-galvanic mode in which the input 102 is galvanically isolated from the output 104. The relay 114 is shown in Fig. 3 and may be controlled by the controller 120 via an internal control interface / bus. Three allowed basic functional states of semiconductor / relay stage may be considered as given in Table 1.

[0108] Table 1

[0109]

[0110] Thus, the solid-state switch 112 is configured to be in its conductive mode (i.e., closed) when the relay 114 is in its galvanic mode (i.e., closed); or the solid-state switch 112 is configured to be in its conductive mode when the relay 114 is in its non-galvanic mode; or the solid-state switch 112 is configured to be in its non-conductive mode when the relay 114 is in its non-galvanic mode.

[0111] Furthermore, the switchgear module 100 may also comprise a user interface 160 to be able to obtain input from a user / person 500 such as an operator capable of programming the switchgear module 100 and the switchgear arrangement 200. The user interface 160 provides user input to the controller 120 which processes the user input. For example, the controller 120 may operate according to either mode A) or mode B) based on the input from the user 500. The user interface 160 may comprise any type of input means such as a screen, buttons, microphone, etc.

[0112] Fig. 5 shows a solid-state switch with two protective clamping circuits 116 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The clamping circuit 116, 116' is configured to protect the transistors of the switching circuit 110 from over-voltage or over-current. In Fig. 5, two clamping circuits 116, 116' are shown and they are arranged to protect in both current directions CD1 , CD2.Fig. 6 illustrates a switchgear arrangement 200 comprising an input circuit 230 and / or an output circuit 320 according to further embodiments of the disclosure. The input circuit 230 is generally configured to connect one or more power sources 310 to one or more inputs 102 of one or more switchgear modules 100. Correspondingly, the output circuit 240 is configured to connect one or more outputs 104 of one or more switchgear modules 100 to one or more loads 310. The input circuit 230 and the output circuit 240 may be formed as controllable switching circuits or networks. Thereby, true flexibility is provided regarding input power and output power. Two particular examples may be mentioned in this respect at the input side and the output side of the switchgear arrangement 200.

[0113] At the input side of the switchgear arrangement 200, at least two switchgear modules 100 of the switchgear arrangement 200 are connected to the same power source 310. Thus, power sharing of power from the same power source is possible between multiple switchgear modules 100.

[0114] At the output side of the switchgear arrangement 200, at least two switchgear modules 100 of the switchgear arrangement 100 are connected to the same load 320. Thus, more than one switchgear module 100 can deliver power to the same load 320. For example, three one phase switchgear modules may form three phase power delivered to the load 320.

[0115] Fig. 7 shows a flow chart of a method according to embodiments of the disclosure. The method is for a switchgear arrangement 200 herein disclosed. Thus, the switchgear arrangement 100 comprises two or more switchgear modules 100, 100', wherein each switchgear module 100 comprises: an input 102 connected to a power source 310 and configured to receive an input current from the power source 310, an output 104 connected to a load 320 and configured to provide an output current to the load 320, a switching circuit 110 connected between the input 102 and the output 104, and a controller 120 configured to control the switching circuit 110 to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit 110 or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit 110, and a communication interface 130 communicatively interconnecting the controller 120to controllers 120' of other switchgear modules 100' of the switchgear arrangement 200.

[0116] The method 400 according to embodiments of the disclosure comprises: mode A) receiving 402 a first control signal 210 from a controller 120' of another switchgear module 100' via the communication interface 130, the first control signal 210 indicating a first control command C1 for controlling the switching circuit 110, and control the switching circuit 110 based on the first control command C1 ; or mode B) transmitting 404 a second control signal 220 to a controller 120' of another switchgear module 100' via the communication interface 130, the second control signal 220 indicating a second control command C2 for controlling a switching circuit 110' of the another switchgear module 100'.

[0117] Finally, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also relates to and incorporates all embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A switchgear arrangement (200) comprising two or more switchgear modules (100, 100'), wherein each switchgear module (100) comprises: an input (102) connected to a power source (310) and configured to receive an input current from the power source (310), an output (104) connected to a load (320) and configured to provide an output current to the load (320), a switching circuit (110) connected between the input (102) and the output (104), and a controller (120) configured to control the switching circuit (110) to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit (110) or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit (110), and a communication interface (130) communicatively interconnecting the controller (120) to controllers (120') of other switchgear modules (100') of the switchgear arrangement (200), wherein the controller (120) is configured to:mode A) receive a first control signal (210) from a controller (120') of another switchgear module (100') via the communication interface (130), the first control signal (210) indicating a first control command (C1 ) for controlling the switching circuit (110), and control the switching circuit (110) based on the first control command (C1); or mode B) transmit a second control signal (220) to a controller (120') of another switchgear module (100') via the communication interface (130), the second control signal (220) indicating a second control command (C2) for controlling a switching circuit (110') of the another switchgear module (100').

2. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 1 , wherein each switchgear module (100) comprises a power supply unit (140) configured to supply power to the controller (120).

3. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 2, wherein the power supply unit (140) is connected to a common power circuit (142) interconnecting the separate switchgear modules (100, 100') of the switchgear arrangement (100).

4. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each switchgear module (100) comprises a measuring means (150)configured to obtain first measurements (M1 ) at the input (102) and / or the output (104) and to provide the first measurements (M1) to the controller (120).

5. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 4, wherein the first measurements (M1) are electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements.

6. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 5, wherein the electrical measurements (M1 ) comprise any of: a voltage measurement, a current measurement, a frequency measurement, and an impedance measurement.

7. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the controller (120) is configured to:transmit the first measurements (M1) to the controller (120') of the another switchgear module (100'), ordetermine the second control command (C2) based on the first measurements (M1).

8. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 7, wherein the controller (120) is configured to:receive second measurements (M2) from the controller (120') of the another switchgear module (100'), anddetermine the second control command (C2) further based on the second measurements (M2).

9. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 8, wherein the second measurements (M2) are electrical measurements and / or environmental measurements.

10. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching circuit (110) comprises at least one solid-state switch (112) configured to either operate in the conductive mode or in the non-conductive mode.

11. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 10, wherein the solid-state switch (112) comprises at least one transistor connected between the input (102) and the output (104).

12. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 11 , wherein the solid-state switch (112) comprises at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input (102) and the output (104) in a first current direction.

13. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 12, wherein the solid-state switch (112) comprises at least two transistors connected in parallel to each other between the input (102) and the output (104) in a second current direction opposite to the first current direction.

14. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the switching circuit (110) further comprises a relay (114) serially connected with the solid-state switch (112) between the input (102) and the output (104) and configured to either operate in a galvanic mode in which the input (102) is in galvanic contact with the output (104) or in a non-galvanic mode in which the input (102) is galvanically isolated from the output (104).

15. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 14, whereinthe solid-state switch (112) is in the conductive mode when the relay (114) is in the galvanic mode; orthe solid-state switch (112) is in the conductive mode when the relay (114) is in the non-galvanic mode; orthe solid-state switch (112) is in the non-conductive mode when the relay (114) is in the non-galvanic mode.

16. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the switchgear module (100) comprises a user interface (160) configured to receive an input from a user (500) of the switchgear arrangement (100) and provide the input to the controller (120).

17. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to claim 16, wherein the controller (120) is configured to operate according to either mode A) or mode B) based on the input from the user (500).

18. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each switchgear module (100) comprises a housing (170) mechanically separating the switchgear module (100) from other switchgear modules (100') of the switchgear arrangement (100).

19. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two switchgear modules (100) of the switchgear arrangement (100) are connected to the same power source (310).

20. The switchgear arrangement (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two switchgear modules (100) of the switchgear arrangement (100) are connected to the same load (320).

21. A method (400) for a switchgear arrangement (200) comprising two or more switchgear modules (100, 100'), wherein each switchgear module (100) comprises: an input (102) connected to a power source (310) and configured to receive an input current from the power source (310), an output (104) connected to a load (320) and configured to provide an output current to the load (320), a switching circuit (110) connected between the input (102) and the output (104), and a controller (120) configured to control the switching circuit (110) to either operate in a conductive mode in which a current can pass through the switching circuit (110) or in a non-conductive mode in which no current can pass through the switching circuit (110), and a communication interface (130) communicatively interconnecting the controller (120) to controllers (120') of other switchgear modules (100') of the switchgear arrangement (200), the method (400) comprising:mode A) receiving (402) a first control signal (210) from a controller (120') of another switchgear module (100') via the communication interface (130), the first control signal (210) indicating a first control command (C1 ) for controlling the switching circuit (110), and control the switching circuit (110) based on the first control command (C1); ormode B) transmitting (404) a second control signal (220) to a controller (120') of another switchgear module (100') via the communication interface (130), the second control signal (220) indicating a second control command (C2) for controlling a switching circuit (110') of the another switchgear module (100').

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