Modular Switching Unit With Integrated Overcurrent Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular electrical switching devices face challenges in implementing supplementary functions without increasing size or requiring complex installations, as additional auxiliary modules occupy space and necessitate specialized wiring.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a measuring device with a measuring sensor and electronic circuit within the device's housing to perform complementary functions, such as overcurrent detection, without altering the device's modular format or requiring additional space or wiring, and enabling remote configuration and data communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional auxiliary modules are added to implement supplementary functions, then functionality is improved, but device size and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the auxiliary measuring function into the main circuit breaker housing. The measuring sensor is integrated within the existing device structure, allowing supplementary functionality to be added without requiring separate auxiliary modules. This merging approach eliminates the need for additional space while maintaining enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The main circuit breaker housing is designed to perform multiple functions: primary circuit protection and auxiliary current measurement. By making the housing universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated auxiliary modules, thereby maintaining compact size while providing enhanced functionality through the integrated measuring device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional auxiliary modules are added to implement supplementary functions, then functionality is improved, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the auxiliary measuring function into the main circuit breaker housing. The measuring sensor is integrated within the existing device structure, allowing supplementary functionality to be added without requiring separate auxiliary modules. This merging approach eliminates the need for additional wiring and reduces installation complexity to minimal steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated measuring device utilizes the existing electrical connections and housing structure of the main circuit breaker. The system serves itself by using the same housing and connection points already present, eliminating the need for separate installation procedures, additional wiring, or specialized installer intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the device housing is enlarged to accommodate additional functions, then functionality is improved, but space occupation in the electrical panel increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If traditional thermal tripping elements are used, then overcurrent protection is provided, but measurement precision for prolonged overcurrent detection is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveovercurrent protectionVSAvoidovercurrent detection precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an electronic measuring sensor as an intermediary between the electrical circuit and the tripping mechanism. This sensor provides precise measurement of current values, enabling accurate detection of prolonged overcurrent conditions. The electronic measurement system complements the traditional thermal element by providing more precise data for tripping decisions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces or supplements the mechanical thermal tripping element with an electronic measuring sensor and control circuit. The electronic system provides more precise measurement capabilities compared to the purely mechanical thermal element, enabling better detection and response to prolonged overcurrent conditions while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Facilitates simpler and faster installation by eliminating the need for additional modules and wiring, while providing enhanced safety and functionality through dual overcurrent monitoring and remote parameter setting, thus optimizing space and reducing installation time.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic actuator 10', which is suitable and intended to actuate the trip lock 7 to switch the trip lock 7 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 in the event of a differential fault

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

at least one suitable magnetic release element 10 intended to actuate the release lock 7 to switch the release lock 7 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 in the event of a short-circuit type fault

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic release: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

a thermal tripping element, preferably a bimetallic strip, which protects the electrical installation against overcurrent faults

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBimetallic strip deformation: Bi-Metallic Strip

Data Source

PatentEP3718126B1Modular electrical switching device

Publication Date: 2026.03.04 HAGER ELECTRO SAS

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AI summary

The subject of the present invention is a modular electrical switching device comprising a housing in which the following are housed: - a first line (L) comprising fixed (3) and mobile (4) contacts; - a second line (N); - a trip lock (7) that is able to adopt a first position and a second position, the first phase line (L) comprising a magnetic trip member (10) for switching the trip lock (7) in the event of a short-circuit fault; - an electrical transformer (11) associated with a first electronic circuit (12) that is configured to perform a differential function, for switching the trip lock (7) in the event of a differential fault; - a measurement device (14) comprising a measurement sensor (15) and a second electronic circuit (16) for switching the trip lock (7) in the event of an extended overcurrent fault.