EP1665307B1 - Arrangement for monitoring electric devices on stray light arcs - Google Patents

Arrangement for monitoring electric devices on stray light arcs Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1665307B1
EP1665307B1 EP04765342A EP04765342A EP1665307B1 EP 1665307 B1 EP1665307 B1 EP 1665307B1 EP 04765342 A EP04765342 A EP 04765342A EP 04765342 A EP04765342 A EP 04765342A EP 1665307 B1 EP1665307 B1 EP 1665307B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
optical
electrical
arrangement according
optical waveguide
light
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1665307A2 (en
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Matthias Viehmann
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Fachhochschule Nordhausen
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Fachhochschule Nordhausen
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H9/00—Details of switching devices, not covered by groups H01H1/00 - H01H7/00
    • H01H9/50—Means for detecting the presence of an arc or discharge

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an arrangement for monitoring electrical devices on the emergence of arcs. It is used to detect an arc which possibly arises during operation of an electrical device, with the aim of being able to derive a warning signal or a control signal suitable for interrupting an affected circuit from the detected signal.
  • a device for detecting arcing in which the magnetic field caused by an arc detected by means of a Hall element and in the case of detection of an arc, a switching device is controlled to interrupt the affected circuit.
  • the detection of an arc is additionally provided by a detection of the light emanating from it.
  • it is proposed to monitor a plurality of parallel busbars in order to put them in a loop around an optical waveguide and to guide in this in the occurrence of an arc radially from the outside registered and therefore a not insignificant attenuation subjected light to an optical receiver.
  • arcs can be detected only selectively on and in the vicinity of individual, possibly particularly endangered positions supporting also optically.
  • the JP 06222097 A discloses an exclusively optical-based arc detection solution.
  • it is proposed to provide a parallel optical waveguide along lines or cables to be monitored. Light is transmitted between a light-emitting transmitter and an optical receiver via the optical waveguide.
  • the optical waveguide should melt as a result of the high temperature occurring, so that the then occurring interruption of the connection between the light emitter and the receiver can be evaluated at the latter.
  • the disadvantage here is that the optical waveguide in individual cases may not be interrupted in an arc.
  • the in the DE 295 13 343 U1 shown solution which is also based on the use of an optical waveguide, comes, unlike the solution presented above, without a light-emitting transmitter.
  • an immediate evaluation of the coupled in an arc in the optical waveguide light takes place.
  • one or more optical waveguides are guided helically around a cable or cable to be monitored.
  • a larger number of optical waveguides is required, which are to be arranged in sufficiently narrow helices around the electrical conductor.
  • the object of the invention is to reliably detect the occurrence of an arc in electrical devices, namely at their lines, cables and / or contact points.
  • a comprehensive, spatially all-round monitoring, based on the monitored component, should be ensured, in the result of which suitable measures can be derived in the event of the occurrence of an arc.
  • the proposed arrangement for monitoring electrical equipment on the emergence of arcs consists of at least one designed as a single or multi-wire cable or cable electrical conductor which devices, components or circuit parts of the electrical device interconnects, from means that in the formation of a Arc resulting light to an optical / electrical converter, as well as an electrically connected to the converter monitoring and evaluation.
  • the means which guide the light emanating from a possible arc onto the optical / electrical converter are at least one optical waveguide.
  • the optical waveguide envelops one or more wires of the aforementioned electrical conductor and at the same time forms the electrical insulation of a line or the jacket of a cable.
  • the optical waveguide is an immediate component of a monitored electrical conductor and at the same time serves for its electrical isolation. Therefore, below in connection with the invention is also referred to below by a combination conductor. Possible, suitable for this purpose materials, which are preferably transparent plastics, on the one hand have good optical properties and on the other hand can be used as a flexible electrical insulator, will be done later, some embodiments.
  • a combination conductor Possible, suitable for this purpose materials, which are preferably transparent plastics, on the one hand have good optical properties and on the other hand can be used as a flexible electrical insulator, will be done later, some embodiments.
  • the cladding of the conductor with the optical waveguide - and thus its electrical insulation - Can be carried out in a conventional manner in an extrusion process during production.
  • the electrical conductor enclosed by the optical waveguide is a line or a cable for connecting components of an electrical device monitored in the described manner.
  • requirements should be understood to mean an electrical device, for example a group of electrical devices, a single electrical device or a special module of a device, connected via corresponding cables or cables covered with an optical waveguide.
  • the arrangement responds to an electric arc which emanates from the electrical conductor enveloped by the optical waveguide itself.
  • the light of the arc is different, as known from the prior art, not radially from the outside, but coupled directly into the interior of the optical waveguide in this.
  • the arrangement may also, as will be shown in an embodiment, be designed so that it responds to an arc, which is formed on a clamping or plug connection designed as a contact point of the electrical conductor with other units of the electrical device.
  • the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor is guided into the contact point.
  • the light emitted by the arc light is coupled in this case axially in the end face of the optical waveguide.
  • the arrangement according to the invention but via means for interrupting the current through the arc-affected circuit portions of the electrical device, said means being actuated or activated by the monitoring and evaluation unit in the event of detection of an arc.
  • the means for interrupting an affected circuit may be, for example, relays or semiconductor switches or power semiconductors.
  • the invention also encompasses an arrangement in which the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor, preferably for suppressing the extraneous light effect and / or increasing the dielectric strength, is enveloped by an additional electrically insulating and opaque cladding.
  • the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor preferably for suppressing the extraneous light effect and / or increasing the dielectric strength
  • An additional measure for suppressing the influence of extraneous light is to couple the light into the optical / electrical converter via a filter which transmits blocking through a corresponding wavelength of the light (daylight and / or room lighting) or only for wavelengths which are typical for arcs.
  • the filter can be arranged on the transducer or its integral part.
  • the electrical conductor enveloped by the optical waveguide can be designed differently, apart from the number of electrically conductive cores. For example, it can also be a twisted pair cable to protect against electromagnetic interference. Also, a shielded line can be surrounded according to the invention of a trained as an optical waveguide jacket. If the electrical line is stranded wire, since such an electrical conductor has a comparatively uneven surface, it has proved advantageous to apply to this a preferably, but not necessarily light-reflecting, leveling layer so as to obtain a flat surface. which then surrounded with the optical waveguide This can be done, for example, by a tube method, ie by coating the electrical conductor with a, a corresponding layer forming hose.
  • a line formed according to the invention or the combination conductor can be a line which can be cut to length in accordance with the insert and, if appropriate, can also be coupled to the optical / electrical converter only when it is installed.
  • the combination conductor is a prefabricated line which is then preferably already connected to the transducer.
  • the converter is to be designed in terms of its structural design advantageously so that it can be coupled by a user, so as a device manufacturer, as simple as possible to the monitoring optical fiber.
  • the optical waveguide which, according to the principles of the invention, simultaneously acts as an insulator or jacket, may for example consist of a polymer.
  • PMMA polymethylmethacrylate
  • PMP polymethylpentene
  • PC polycarbonate
  • Polycarbonate is characterized for example by a high flexibility and a particularly good temperature resistance. In addition, it is impact resistant and, in the case of an arc caused flame formation, self-extinguishing. Polymethylpentene also has good flexibility and is also suitable for use at high temperatures. In addition, it is very good electrically insulating. All the aforementioned polymers are characterized by a good transparency, ie a high degree of transmission. Furthermore, silicone elastomers or fluoridated polymers are suitable as materials for the optical waveguide. Also for the optical / electrical converter a variety of forms of training are conceivable.
  • the transducer is designed according to a proposed embodiment of the invention in the form of an attachable to an axial end of the optical waveguide cap or a slide-on disc, wherein the cap or disc optionally after placement of the electrical conductor is penetrated.
  • an embodiment which can be screwed onto an axial end of the optical waveguide is also conceivable, for which purpose a ferrule is optionally provided on the optical waveguide.
  • a plurality of optical fibers are guided on an optical / electrical converter.
  • it can be optionally in the optical / electrical converter to a CCD line, a CCD matrix or a CMOS array act.
  • the combination formed by electrical conductor and optical waveguide is a prefabricated line of fixed length, in which only one axial end of the optical waveguide for connection to an optical / electrical converter is provided, while the other end (but not the end of the Optical waveguide sheathed electrical conductor) remains open after installation in the device to be monitored, the free end, according to an advantageous development, mirrored.
  • a reflective coating can be realized in the case of a line which can be cut to length, also by terminating the open end with a reflective cap.
  • the latter variant opens up the possibility of integrating into such a cap an optical transmitter by means of which a self-test of the arrangement can be carried out when the monitored electrical device is switched on or timed by the monitoring and evaluation unit. In evaluation of a light pulse emitted by the optical transmitter can be checked whether the optical fiber is broken or damaged.
  • light guides are in some cases arranged in optical waveguides with a long cable length, as required for example in the monitoring of electrical connections in ships.
  • the invention is expressly intended to include such arrangements in which the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor serves both to couple in the light of a possible arc and to transmit other useful signals within the monitored electrical device.
  • measures familiar to the person skilled in the art for separating or distinguishing a transmitted useful signal from the light of an arc that is to say optionally providing light filters or filters, are provided to modulate the useful signal in a manner suitable for this purpose.
  • the optical waveguide for useful signals existing light emitting device, as well as the optical / electrical converter can be designed so that they are coupled by means of slit / clamp technology for coupling and decoupling of light from the outside to the waveguide ,
  • both the optical coupling with the optical waveguide, as well as the contacting of the electrical conductor using the slot / clamp technique are press themselves by a claw-like formation with protruding optically active elements in the waveguide.
  • the distinction between caused by arcing arcs light signals and optical useful signals can be done by means of stored in the monitoring and evaluation unit reference curves. Reference curves for different types of arcing faults are preferably stored in the corresponding unit.
  • the signal transmission between the optical / electrical converter and the monitoring and evaluation unit can, of course, likewise take place via an electrical conductor enveloped by an optical waveguide, the optical waveguide possibly also serving to transmit wanted signals following the previous consideration.
  • the signal transmission between the converter and the monitoring and evaluation unit using the so-called "power line technology", in which the signal transmission takes place via energy supply lines of the monitored device.
  • the arrangement according to the invention is reproduced in a symbolic representation.
  • the arrangement comprises an optical waveguide 2, an optical / electrical converter 3 and a monitoring and evaluation unit 4 for evaluating the signals of the aforementioned converter 3.
  • the immediate component of the arrangement is furthermore an electrical conductor 1, which circuit parts, assemblies or devices not shown here an electrical device connects and, according to the basic idea of the invention, over almost its entire length is enveloped by the optical waveguide 2.
  • the electrical conductor 1 forms quasi a non-optical core of the optical waveguide 2 from.
  • It is a length cut to size electrical line, which monitors the means of other parts of the arrangement on arcs and their isolation is formed by the optical waveguide 2.
  • the resulting light is coupled directly into the interior of the optical waveguide 2 in the optical waveguide 2.
  • the optical waveguide 2 the light is supplied to the optical / electrical converter 3, whose signals are processed by the monitoring and evaluation unit 4.
  • the monitoring and evaluation unit 4 Depending on the design of the evaluation and monitoring unit 4 can be activated by this, in the case of the occurrence of an arc, a warning signal or a suitable switching element comprehensive circuit unit can be controlled, which interrupts the circuit section affected by the arc.
  • the elements and circuit units required for suitable evaluation of the detector signal are known to the person skilled in the art and should not be the subject of further explanation here.
  • the shutdown of an affected by an arc circuit group can be done for example by means of a correspondingly controlled relay. If the optical / electrical converter 3 has a corresponding surface, it is different from that by the Fig. 1 Given representation, also possible that several, each serving as a sheath of electrical conductors optical waveguide 2 are performed on this. In complicated constellations, the use of a CCD line or matrix for the optical / electrical converter 3 is conceivable.
  • the Fig. 2 represents a slightly modified variant of the arrangement according to the Fig. 1 dar. Unlike in the Fig. 1 , It is here in the formed by the electrical conductor 1 and the optical waveguide 2 enveloping him line to a pre-assembled line with a fixed length. In order to connect or contact the electrical conductor 1 at the designated locations, its ends are led out radially from the serving for monitoring optical fiber 2. It is to be regarded as particularly advantageous that such an electrical conductor 1 provided with an optical waveguide 2, irrespective of whether it is variable or fixed in terms of its length, is manufactured simultaneously in a single extrusion step with an electrical insulation and for its subsequent monitoring Serving optical waveguide 2 can be wrapped.
  • optical / electrical converter 3 may be required.
  • additional measures or special designs of the optical / electrical converter 3 may be required.
  • a further measure relating to the line consists in the possible mirroring of an optionally free axial end of the optical waveguide 2. This can be registered with respect to a reliable evaluation of the in the optical waveguide 2 of an arc Light be beneficial.
  • the interposition of light amplifiers in the optical waveguide 2 may be required.
  • the Fig. 3 shows that the constructed in the manner described, consisting of electrical conductor 1 and optical fiber 2, the basic idea of the invention, also for monitoring of contact points, such as the interior of connectors 5 is used.
  • the line including the surrounding optical waveguide 2 is led directly into the corresponding contact point to be monitored.
  • the light emanating from a possible arc is coupled in axially via the end face 6 of the optical waveguide 2 and fed to the optical / electrical converter 3.
  • the other mode of action is the same as already for Fig. 1 described.
  • the invention is also intended for monitoring more complex electrical or electronic equipment, it may be in the Fig.
  • the transducer 3 may be formed as an attachable to the optical waveguide 2 cap. In this case, the cap-shaped transducer 3 is penetrated by the electrical conductor 1 in the illustrated example. To further reduce the influence of the ambient light and / or to increase the dielectric strength, the existing of the electrical conductor 1 and the optical waveguide 2 line is wrapped in the example of an additional insulating and opaque jacket 7.

Landscapes

  • Measuring Instrument Details And Bridges, And Automatic Balancing Devices (AREA)
  • Testing Of Short-Circuits, Discontinuities, Leakage, Or Incorrect Line Connections (AREA)
  • Testing Relating To Insulation (AREA)
  • Analogue/Digital Conversion (AREA)
  • Remote Monitoring And Control Of Power-Distribution Networks (AREA)
  • Measurement And Recording Of Electrical Phenomena And Electrical Characteristics Of The Living Body (AREA)
  • Cable Accessories (AREA)
  • Led Device Packages (AREA)
  • Led Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns an arrangement for monitoring electrical equipment for the emergence of accidental arcs. The object is to more reliably recognize the occurrence of an arc on lines, cables and/or contact sites or in devices than has been possible with previously known solutions. The proposed arrangement comprises at least one electrical conductor, which connects devices, subassemblies or circuit components of the piece of electrical equipment with one another, at least one light guide or optical fiber which guides the light arising in the formation of an arc to an optical/electrical transformer, as well as a monitoring and evaluating unit electrically connected with the transformer. The optical fiber envelops one or more wire cores of the above-mentioned electrical conductor and thus simultaneously forms the electrical insulation of a line or the shielding of a cable.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Anordnung zur Überwachung elektrischer Einrichtungen auf das Entstehen von Störlichtbögen. Sie dient der Detektion eines beim Betrieb einer elektrischen Einrichtung gegebenenfalls entstehenden Lichtbogens, mit dem Ziel aus dem detektierten Signal ein Warnsignal oder ein zur Unterbrechung eines betroffenen Stromkreises geeignetes Steuersignal ableiten zu können.The invention relates to an arrangement for monitoring electrical devices on the emergence of arcs. It is used to detect an arc which possibly arises during operation of an electrical device, with the aim of being able to derive a warning signal or a control signal suitable for interrupting an affected circuit from the detected signal.

Beim Betrieb elektrischer Einrichtungen kann es insbesondere an Leitungen, Kabeln und/oder Steckvorrichtungen bzw. Kontaktstellen, über welche Geräte, Baugruppen oder Schaltungsteile miteinander verbunden sind, zur Ausbildung von Lichtbögen kommen. Häufig entstehen Lichtbögen auch bei Schaltvorgängen. Die Lichtbögen können, dem Schaltungsverlauf folgend, seriell innerhalb eines Stromkreises und/oder aber auch, sozusagen parallel, zwischen benachbart angeordneten Stromkreisen entstehen. Auch Überschläge und Durchschläge zwischen bzw. an elektrischen Leitern und metallischen Gehäuseteilen sind möglich. Ursachen für das Entstehen von Lichtbögen sind beispielsweise Scheuer- oder Knickstellen an den Leitern, ebenso aber Quetschungen oder Kabelbrüche. Auch durch Vibrationen beim Betrieb der Einrichtungen oder durch Beschädigungen von Isolationen können Lichtbögen entstehen. Nicht zuletzt kann eine unsachgemäße Verlegung der Leiter ursächlich sein. Lichtbögen verursachen Störungen benachbarter elektrischer Geräte und Einrichtungen, können aber auch Ursache für eine Zerstörung betroffener Schaltungsteile oder von Bränden sein, die zu hohen Sachschäden oder gar zur Gefährdung von Menschen führen.In the operation of electrical devices, it can in particular on lines, cables and / or plug-in devices or contact points, via which devices, assemblies or circuit parts are connected to each other, come to the formation of arcs. Frequently, arcing also occurs during switching operations. The arcs may, following the course of the circuit, serially formed within a circuit and / or also, as it were in parallel, between adjacent arranged circuits. Even flashovers and breakdowns between or on electrical conductors and metallic housing parts are possible. Causes of arcs are, for example, scouring or kinking on the conductors, as well as bruising or cable breaks. Vibrations may also occur during operation of the equipment or damage to insulation. Last but not least, improper installation of the ladder can be the cause. Arcs cause disturbances of adjacent electrical equipment and facilities, but can also be the cause of destruction of affected circuit parts or fires that lead to high property damage or even endangerment of people.

Zwar kann dem Entstehen von Lichtbögen durch konstruktive Maßnahmen vorgebeugt werden. Jedoch lässt sich ihr Auftreten letztlich nicht vollständig ausschließen. Daher ist es in sensiblen Bereichen, wie beispielsweise dem Fahrzeug-, Flugzeug- oder Schiffbau erforderlich, Lösungen zu finden, mit denen das Entstehen eines Lichtbogens erkannt wird, um geeignete Maßnahmen zur Verhinderung größerer Schäden treffen zu können.Although the emergence of arcs can be prevented by constructive measures. However, their appearance ultimately can not be completely ruled out. Therefore, in sensitive areas, such as vehicle, aircraft or shipbuilding, it is necessary to find solutions with which the The occurrence of an arc is detected in order to take appropriate measures to prevent major damage.

Aus der EP 0 575 932 A1 ist eine Einrichtung zur Erkennung von Störlichtbögen bekannt, bei welcher das von einem Lichtbogen verursachte Magnetfeld mittels eines Hallelements erkannt und im Falle der Detektion eines Lichtbogens ein Schaltgerät zur Unterbrechung des betroffenen Stromkreises angesteuert wird. Entsprechend einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der beschriebenen Lösung ist zusätzlich die Erkennung eines Lichtbogens durch eine Detektion des von ihm ausgehenden Lichtes vorgesehen. Dabei wird zur Überwachung mehrerer parallel geführter Stromschienen vorgeschlagen, um diese in einer Schleife einen Lichtwellenleiter herumzulegen und das in diesen beim Auftreten eines Lichtbogens radial von außen eingetragene und daher einer nicht unerheblichen Dämpfung unterworfene Licht auf einen optischen Empfänger zu führen. Allerdings können, bezogen auf die Verwendung des Lichtleiters, mit dieser Lösung Lichtbögen nur selektiv an und im Umkreis einzelner, möglicherweise besonders gefährdeter Positionen unterstützend auch auf optischem Wege erkannt werden.From the EP 0 575 932 A1 a device for detecting arcing is known, in which the magnetic field caused by an arc detected by means of a Hall element and in the case of detection of an arc, a switching device is controlled to interrupt the affected circuit. According to an advantageous development of the described solution, the detection of an arc is additionally provided by a detection of the light emanating from it. In this case, it is proposed to monitor a plurality of parallel busbars in order to put them in a loop around an optical waveguide and to guide in this in the occurrence of an arc radially from the outside registered and therefore a not insignificant attenuation subjected light to an optical receiver. However, based on the use of the light guide, with this solution arcs can be detected only selectively on and in the vicinity of individual, possibly particularly endangered positions supporting also optically.

Die JP 06222097 A offenbart eine ausschließlich auf optischer Basis arbeitende Lösung zur Erkennung von Lichtbögen. Hierzu wird vorgeschlagen, entlang zu überwachender Leitungen oder Kabel einen parallel angeordneten Lichtwellenleiter vorzusehen. Über den Lichtwellenleiter wird Licht zwischen einem Licht emittierenden Sender und einem optischen Empfänger übertragen. Im Falle eines Lichtbogens soll der Lichtwellenleiter in Folge der dabei auftretenden hohen Temperatur zerschmelzen, so dass die dann eintretende Unterbrechung der Verbindung zwischen dem Lichtsender und dem Empfänger an letzterem ausgewertet werden kann. Nachteilig ist dabei, dass der Lichtwellenleiter in Einzelfällen möglicherweise bei einem Lichtbogen doch nicht unterbrochen wird. Dies könnte eintreten, wenn beispielsweise ein Lichtbogen an der der mit dem Lichtwellenleiter in Kontakt gebrachten Seite des elektrischen Leiters abgewandten Seite entsteht, wenn sich also beispielsweise ein Lichtbogen, anders als angenommen, nicht zwischen zwei parallelen Leitern, sondern zwischen einem der Leiter und einem die Leiter umgebenden Gehäuse ausbildet. Um dies sicher auszuschließen, müsste eine Mehrzahl von beide elektrischen Leiter umgebenden Lichtwellenleitern vorgesehen werden, was einen beträchtlichen Aufwand bedeutet.The JP 06222097 A discloses an exclusively optical-based arc detection solution. For this purpose, it is proposed to provide a parallel optical waveguide along lines or cables to be monitored. Light is transmitted between a light-emitting transmitter and an optical receiver via the optical waveguide. In the case of an arc, the optical waveguide should melt as a result of the high temperature occurring, so that the then occurring interruption of the connection between the light emitter and the receiver can be evaluated at the latter. The disadvantage here is that the optical waveguide in individual cases may not be interrupted in an arc. This could occur, for example, if an arc is formed on the side of the electrical conductor in contact with the optical waveguide side facing away, so if, for example, an arc, unlike assumed, not between two parallel conductors, but between one of the conductors and a Forming conductor surrounding housing. To be sure To exclude, a plurality of both electrical conductors surrounding optical fibers would have to be provided, which means a considerable effort.

Die in der DE 295 13 343 U1 dargestellte Lösung, welche ebenfalls auf der Verwendung eines Lichtwellenleiters basiert, kommt, anders als die zuvor dargestellte Lösung, ohne einen Licht emittierenden Sender aus. Hier erfolgt eine unmittelbare Auswertung des bei einem Lichtbogen in den Lichtwellenleiter eingekoppelten Lichtes. Dazu sind um eine zu überwachende Leitung oder ein Kabel ein oder mehrere Lichtwellenleiter wendelförmig herum geführt. Um eine räumlich allumfassende Überwachung des betreffenden elektrischen Leiters zu gewährleisten, ist vorzugsweise eine größere Zahl von Lichtwellenleitern erforderlich, die in hinreichend engen Wendeln um den elektrischen Leiter anzuordnen sind. Da das Licht eines Lichtbogens radial von außen in den oder die Lichtwellenleiter eingetragen wird, gilt es zudem zu beachten, dass herkömmliche Lichtwellenleiter so beschaffen sind, dass ein Lichtein- und -austritt über ihre Mantelflächen nahezu unterbleibt. Die insoweit vorhandene Dämpfung des beim Entstehen eines Lichtbogen von außen eingetragenen Lichtes kann sich gegebenenfalls nachteilig auf die Zuverlässigkeit des Erkennens eventueller Lichtbögen auswirken bzw. die Bildung eines sehr engmaschigen Netzes aus um den elektrischen Leiter angeordneten Lichtwellenleitern erfordern. Gleiches gilt für die in der DE 35 34 176 A1 beschriebene Lösung und ähnliche Anmerkungen lassen sich ebenfalls zu den durch die JP 12276955 A oder die EP 359 985 A2 dargestellten Lösungen geben. Die letztgenannte Druckschrift betrifft ein elektrisches Kabel, von dessen Mantel gemeinsam mit den elektrischen Adern ein dazu parallel geführter Lichtwellenleiter aufgenommen wird.The in the DE 295 13 343 U1 shown solution, which is also based on the use of an optical waveguide, comes, unlike the solution presented above, without a light-emitting transmitter. Here, an immediate evaluation of the coupled in an arc in the optical waveguide light takes place. For this purpose, one or more optical waveguides are guided helically around a cable or cable to be monitored. In order to ensure a spatially comprehensive monitoring of the respective electrical conductor, preferably a larger number of optical waveguides is required, which are to be arranged in sufficiently narrow helices around the electrical conductor. Since the light of an arc is introduced radially from the outside into the optical waveguide or waveguides, it should also be noted that conventional optical waveguides are designed so that a light inlet and outlet via their lateral surfaces is almost omitted. The extent existing attenuation of the occurrence of an arc from the outside registered light may possibly adversely affect the reliability of detecting any arcs or require the formation of a very close-meshed network of arranged around the electrical conductor optical fibers. The same applies to those in the DE 35 34 176 A1 described solution and similar comments can also be to by the JP 12276955 A or the EP 359 985 A2 give solutions shown. The latter document relates to an electrical cable, from the jacket of which, together with the electrical wires, a parallel optical waveguide is received.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, das Auftreten eines Lichtbogens in elektrischen Einrichtungen, nämlich an deren Leitungen, Kabeln und/oder Kontaktstellen zuverlässig zu erkennen. Insbesondere soll dabei eine umfassende, bezogen auf die überwachte Komponente, räumlich allseitige Überwachung gewährleistet sein, in deren Ergebnis im Falle des Auftretens eines Lichtbogens geeignete Maßnahmen abgeleitet werden können.The object of the invention is to reliably detect the occurrence of an arc in electrical devices, namely at their lines, cables and / or contact points. In particular, a comprehensive, spatially all-round monitoring, based on the monitored component, should be ensured, in the result of which suitable measures can be derived in the event of the occurrence of an arc.

Die Aufgabe wird durch eine Anordnung mit den Merkmalen des Hauptanspruchs gelöst. Vorteilhafte Aus- bzw. Weiterbildungen sind durch die Unteransprüche gegeben.The object is achieved by an arrangement having the features of the main claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are given by the dependent claims.

Die vorgeschlagene Anordnung zur Überwachung elektrischer Einrichtungen auf das Entstehen von Störlichtbögen besteht aus mindestens einem als ein- oder mehradrige Leitung oder als Kabel ausgebildeten elektrischen Leiter, welcher Geräte, Baugruppen oder Schaltungsteile der elektrischen Einrichtung miteinander verbindet, aus Mitteln, welche das bei der Ausbildung eines Lichtbogens entstehende Licht auf einen optisch/elektrischen Wandler führen, sowie einer mit dem Wandler elektrisch verbundenen Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit. Bei den Mitteln, welche das von einem etwaigen Lichtbogen ausgehende Licht auf den optisch/elektrischen Wandler führen, handelt es sich um mindestens einen Lichtwellenleiter. In erfindungswesentlicher Weise umhüllt der Lichtwellenleiter eine oder mehrere Adern des vorgenannten elektrischen Leiters und bildet dabei gleichzeitig die elektrische Isolation einer Leitung oder den Mantel eines Kabels aus. Das heißt der Lichtwellenleiter ist unmittelbarer Bestandteil eines überwachten elektrischen Leiters und dient daneben gleichzeitig zu seiner elektrischen Isolation. Daher wird nachfolgend im Zusammenhang mit der Erfindung nachfolgend auch von einem Kombinationsleiter gesprochen. Zu möglichen, für diesen Zweck geeigneten Materialen, bei denen es sich vorzugsweise um transparente Kunststoffe handelt, die einerseits über gute optische Eigenschaften verfügen und andererseits als flexibler elektrischer Isolator verwendbar sind, sollen später noch einige Ausführungen erfolgen. Insbesondere dann, wenn der gesamte elektrische Leiter von dem Lichtwellenleiter umhüllt ist, er also nahezu ganzvolumig vom Lichtwellenleiter umgeben ist und nicht nur abschnittsweise auf Lichtbögen überwacht wird, ergibt sich der Vorteil, das die Umhüllung des Leiters mit dem Lichtwellenleiter - und damit seine elektrische Isolation - bei der Fertigung in an sich bekannter Weise in einem Extrusionsverfahren erfolgen kann. Wie bereits dargelegt, handelt es sich bei dem vom Lichtwellenleiter umhüllten elektrischen Leiter um eine Leitung oder ein Kabel zur Verbindung von Komponenten einer in der beschriebenen Weise überwachten elektrischen Einrichtung. Je nach Konstellation und den Erfordernissen soll dabei im Sinne der Erfindung unter einer elektrischen Einrichtung beispielsweise eine über entsprechende, mit einem Lichtwellenleiter umhüllte Leitungen bzw. Kabel verbundene Gruppe von elektrischen Geräten, ein einzelnes elektrisches Gerät oder eine spezielle Baugruppe eines Gerätes verstanden werden.The proposed arrangement for monitoring electrical equipment on the emergence of arcs consists of at least one designed as a single or multi-wire cable or cable electrical conductor which devices, components or circuit parts of the electrical device interconnects, from means that in the formation of a Arc resulting light to an optical / electrical converter, as well as an electrically connected to the converter monitoring and evaluation. The means which guide the light emanating from a possible arc onto the optical / electrical converter are at least one optical waveguide. In essential to the invention, the optical waveguide envelops one or more wires of the aforementioned electrical conductor and at the same time forms the electrical insulation of a line or the jacket of a cable. In other words, the optical waveguide is an immediate component of a monitored electrical conductor and at the same time serves for its electrical isolation. Therefore, below in connection with the invention is also referred to below by a combination conductor. Possible, suitable for this purpose materials, which are preferably transparent plastics, on the one hand have good optical properties and on the other hand can be used as a flexible electrical insulator, will be done later, some embodiments. In particular, when the entire electrical conductor is enveloped by the optical waveguide, so it is almost completely enclosed by the optical waveguide and not only partially monitored for arcing, there is the advantage that the cladding of the conductor with the optical waveguide - and thus its electrical insulation - Can be carried out in a conventional manner in an extrusion process during production. As already stated, the electrical conductor enclosed by the optical waveguide is a line or a cable for connecting components of an electrical device monitored in the described manner. Depending on the constellation and the For the purposes of the invention, requirements should be understood to mean an electrical device, for example a group of electrical devices, a single electrical device or a special module of a device, connected via corresponding cables or cables covered with an optical waveguide.

Entsprechend ihrer grundsätzlichen Ausbildung spricht die Anordnung auf einen Lichtbogen an, welcher von dem durch den Lichtwellenleiter umhüllten elektrischen Leiter selbst ausgeht. Das Licht des Lichtbogens wird dabei anders, als aus dem Stand der Technik bekannt, nicht radial von außen, sondern unmittelbar im Inneren des Lichtwellenleiters in diesen eingekoppelt. Die Anordnung kann aber auch, wie in einem Ausführungsbeispiel noch zu zeigen sein wird, so ausgeführt sein, dass sie auf einen Lichtbogen anspricht, welcher an einer als Klemm- oder Steckverbindung ausgebildeten Kontaktstelle des elektrischen Leiters mit anderen Einheiten der elektrischen Einrichtung entsteht. Hierzu wird der den elektrischen Leiter umhüllende Lichtwellenleiter in die Kontaktstelle hineingeführt. Das vom Lichtbogen ausgehende Licht wird in diesem Falle axial in die Stirnfläche des Lichtwellenleiters eingekoppelt. Im Sinne des weiter oben erläuterten Verständnisses von elektrischen Einrichtungen kommt eine solche axiale Einkopplung über die Stirnfläche dabei auch in Betracht, wenn ein in erfindungsgemäßer Weise ausgebildetes Kabel in das Innere eines überwachten Gerätes hineingeführt ist und irgendwo in dem Gerät ein Lichtbogen entsteht. Handelt es sich um ein kleineres Gerät (kleines Volumen), kann eine solche Konfiguration bereits zur Überwachung des gesamten Gerätes hinreichend sein. Sofern es sich jedoch um ein größeres Gerät handelt, können aber selbstverständlich auch im Gerät selbst weitere elektrische Leiter vorgesehen sein, die von einem auf einen Wandler geführten Lichtwellenleiter umhüllt sind.In accordance with its basic design, the arrangement responds to an electric arc which emanates from the electrical conductor enveloped by the optical waveguide itself. The light of the arc is different, as known from the prior art, not radially from the outside, but coupled directly into the interior of the optical waveguide in this. However, the arrangement may also, as will be shown in an embodiment, be designed so that it responds to an arc, which is formed on a clamping or plug connection designed as a contact point of the electrical conductor with other units of the electrical device. For this purpose, the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor is guided into the contact point. The light emitted by the arc light is coupled in this case axially in the end face of the optical waveguide. In the sense of the above-explained understanding of electrical devices, such an axial coupling over the end face also comes into consideration when a cable designed in accordance with the invention is led into the interior of a monitored device and an arc arises somewhere in the device. If it is a smaller device (small volume), such a configuration may already be sufficient for monitoring the entire device. However, if it is a larger device, but can of course also be provided in the device itself further electrical conductors, which are enveloped by a guided on a transducer optical waveguide.

Für die Auslegung der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit sind, je nach Einsatzzweck und Gefährdungsgrad einer elektrischen Einrichtung durch Lichtbögen bzw. den bei ihrem Entstehen zu erwartenden Folgen unterschiedliche Konstellationen denkbar. Dabei kann es im Einzelfall ausreichend sein, die Entstehung eines Lichtbogens durch ein geeignetes optisches oder akustisches Warnsignal zu signalisieren. Vorzugsweise verfügt die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung jedoch über Mittel zur Unterbrechung des Stromes durch die von einem Lichtbogen betroffenen Schaltungsteile der elektrischen Einrichtung, wobei die genannten Mittel durch die Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit im Falle der Detektion eines Lichtbogens betätigt bzw. aktiviert werden. Bei den Mitteln zur Unterbrechung eines betroffenen Stromkreises kann es sich beispielsweise um Relais oder Halbleiterschalter bzw. Leistungshalbleiter handeln. Zur Erhöhung der Zuverlässigkeit bzw. Stabilität ist von der Erfindung auch eine Anordnung umfasst, bei welcher der den elektrischen Leiter umhüllende Lichtwellenleiter, vorzugsweise zur Unterdrückung der Fremdlichteinwirkung und/oder zur Erhöhung der Durchschlagfestigkeit, von einem zusätzlichen elektrisch isolierenden und lichtundurchlässigen Mantel umhüllt ist. Um außerdem mögliche optische Verluste zu reduzieren, wie sie beispielsweise aufgrund von Leitungskrümmungen auftreten können, ist es dabei vorteilhaft, den zusätzlichen äußeren Mantel auf seiner, dem Lichtwellenleiter zugewandten Innenseite optisch reflektierend auszubilden bzw., ihn zu verspiegeln. Dies kann dadurch geschehen, dass auf seiner Innenseite eine lichtreflektierende Folie angeordnet wird. Eine zusätzliche Maßnahme zur Unterdrückung der Fremdlichteinwirkung besteht darin, das Licht in den optisch/elektrischen Wandler über ein entsprechende Wellenlängen des Lichts (Tageslicht und/oder Raumbeleuchtung) sperrendes bzw. nur für Wellenlängen, welche für Lichtbögen typisch sind, durchlässiges Filter einzukoppeln. Dabei kann das Filter am Wandler angeordnet oder dessen integraler Bestandteil sein.For the design of the monitoring and evaluation unit, different constellations are conceivable, depending on the intended use and degree of danger of an electrical device due to electric arcs or the consequences that are to be expected when they arise. It may be sufficient in individual cases to signal the formation of an arc by a suitable visual or audible warning signal. Preferably, the arrangement according to the invention but via means for interrupting the current through the arc-affected circuit portions of the electrical device, said means being actuated or activated by the monitoring and evaluation unit in the event of detection of an arc. The means for interrupting an affected circuit may be, for example, relays or semiconductor switches or power semiconductors. To increase the reliability or stability, the invention also encompasses an arrangement in which the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor, preferably for suppressing the extraneous light effect and / or increasing the dielectric strength, is enveloped by an additional electrically insulating and opaque cladding. In addition, in order to reduce possible optical losses, as may occur, for example, due to line curvatures, it is advantageous to optically reflect the additional outer cladding on its inner side facing the optical waveguide or to mirror it. This can be done by arranging a light-reflecting film on its inside. An additional measure for suppressing the influence of extraneous light is to couple the light into the optical / electrical converter via a filter which transmits blocking through a corresponding wavelength of the light (daylight and / or room lighting) or only for wavelengths which are typical for arcs. In this case, the filter can be arranged on the transducer or its integral part.

Der von dem Lichtwellenleiter umhüllte elektrische Leiter kann, abgesehen von der Zahl elektrisch leitender Adern unterschiedlich ausgebildet sein. So kann es sich beispielsweise, zum Schutz gegen elektromagnetische Störeinflüsse auch um eine verdrillte Zweidrahtleitung handeln. Auch eine geschirmte Leitung kann entsprechend der Erfindung von einem als Lichtwellenleiter ausgebildeten Mantel umgeben sein. Sofern es sich bei der elektrischen Leitung um Litze handelt, hat es sich, da ein solcher elektrischer Leiter eine vergleichsweise unebene Oberfläche besitzt, als vorteilhaft erwiesen, auf diesen eine vorzugsweise, aber nicht zwingend lichtreflektierende Ausgleichsschicht aufzubringen, um so eine ebene Oberfläche zu erhalten, welche dann mit dem Lichtwellenleiter umgeben wird, wobei dies beispielsweise durch ein Schlauchverfahren, also durch Überziehen des elektrischen Leiters mit einem, eine entsprechende Schicht ausbildenden Schlauch geschehen kann. Nicht nur bei der Verwendung von Litze für den elektrischen Leiter, sondern grundsätzlich, ist es auch denkbar, eine zähflüssige oder gelartige Schicht einzubringen, um im Falle des Durchschlags der Isolation oder des Mantels durch einen Lichtbogen einen Selbstheileffekt oder eine Selbstlöscheigenschaft zu erzielen. Schließlich ist es, unter Beibehaltung des erfinderischen Grundprinzips, auch möglich, den Kombinationsleiter als eine Anordnung mit mehreren durch Zwischenlagen getrennten optischen Lagen bzw. Schichten auszuführen. Grundsätzlich kann es sich bei einer gemäß der Erfindung ausgebildeten Leitung bzw. dem Kombinationsleiter um eine, entsprechend dem Einsatz, in ihrer Länge zuschneidbare Leitung handeln, die gegebenenfalls auch erst bei ihrer Verbauung an den optisch/elektrischen Wandler anzukoppeln ist. Es ist aber ebenso denkbar, dass es sich bei dem Kombinationsleiter um eine vorkonfektionierte Leitung handelt, die dann vorzugsweise bereits mit dem Wandler in Verbindung gebracht ist. Im erstgenannten Fall ist der Wandler im Hinblick auf seinen konstruktiven Aufbau vorteilhafter Weise so zu gestalten, dass er von einem Anwender, also etwa einem Gerätehersteller, möglichst einfach an den der Überwachung dienenden Lichtwellenleiter angekoppelt werden kann. Der Lichtwellenleiter, welcher, dem erfindungsgemäßen Grundgedanken folgend, gleichzeitig als Isolator oder Mantel fungiert, kann beispielsweise aus einem Polymer bestehen. Als geeignete Materialien haben sich dabei insbesondere Polymethylmethacrylat (PMMA) und dessen Modifikationen (z. B: quervernetzt und fluoridiert), Polymethylpenten (PMP), gegebenenfalls in Kombination mit seinen Copolymeren, oder Polycarbonat (PC) erwiesen. Polycarbonat zeichnet sich dabei zum Beispiel durch eine hohe Flexibilität und eine besonders gute Temperaturbeständigkeit aus. Zudem ist es schlagzäh und, im Falle von einem Lichtbogen hervorgerufener Flammenbildung, selbstverlöschend. Polymethylpenten besitzt ebenfalls eine gute Flexibilität und ist ebenso für den Einsatz bei hohen Temperaturen geeignet. Zudem ist es sehr gut elektrisch isolierend. Alle vorgenannten Polymere zeichnen sich durch eine gute Transparenz, also einen hohen Transmissionsgrad aus. Weiterhin kommen Silicon-Elastomere oder fluoridierte Polymere als Materialien für den Lichtwellenleiter in Betracht. Auch für den optisch/elektrischen Wandler sind unterschiedlichste Ausbildungsformen denkbar. Unter dem Gesichtspunkt einer einfachen und guten Ankopplung an den Lichtwellenleiter ist der Wandler entsprechend einer vorgesehenen Ausbildungsform der Erfindung in Form einer auf ein axiales Ende des Lichtwellenleiters aufsteckbaren Kappe oder einer aufschiebbaren Scheibe ausgebildet, wobei die Kappe oder Scheibe gegebenenfalls nach dem Aufsetzen von dem elektrischen Leiter durchragt wird. Denkbar ist aber auch eine auf ein axiales Ende des Lichtwellenleiters aufschraubbare Ausführungsform, wobei hierzu gegebenenfalls am Lichtwellenleiter eine Ferule vorzusehen ist. Im Sinne der Erfindung ist es selbstverständlich, beispielsweise bei entsprechender Länge des zu überwachenden Leiters respektive des Lichtwellenleiters, auch denkbar, beide Enden des Lichtwellenleiters mit einem optisch/elektrischen Wandler in Verbindung zu bringen. Allerdings kommt dies natürlich bei einer hinsichtlich der Länge zuschneidbaren Kombination aus elektrischem Leiter und Lichtwellenleiter nicht in Betracht. Sofern eine solche Kombination bereits bei der Fertigung an einem axialen Ende des Lichtwellenleiters mit einem Wandler oder einer Ferule versehen wird, kann insoweit auch hier von einer vörkonfektionierten Leitung gesprochen werden. Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Möglichkeit zur Verbindung des Lichtwellenleiters mit dem optisch/elektrischen Wandler ist es vorgesehen, dass der Wandler, vorzugsweise an einem axialen Ende des Lichtwellenleiters, in den Lichtwellenleiter eingeschmolzen ist. Im Hinblick auf die voranschreitende Entwicklung bei der Polymerelektronik ist es dabei denkbar, dass auch der Wandler aus einem Polymer besteht.The electrical conductor enveloped by the optical waveguide can be designed differently, apart from the number of electrically conductive cores. For example, it can also be a twisted pair cable to protect against electromagnetic interference. Also, a shielded line can be surrounded according to the invention of a trained as an optical waveguide jacket. If the electrical line is stranded wire, since such an electrical conductor has a comparatively uneven surface, it has proved advantageous to apply to this a preferably, but not necessarily light-reflecting, leveling layer so as to obtain a flat surface. which then surrounded with the optical waveguide This can be done, for example, by a tube method, ie by coating the electrical conductor with a, a corresponding layer forming hose. Not only in the use of stranded wire for the electrical conductor, but in principle, it is also conceivable to introduce a viscous or gelatinous layer to achieve in the case of the breakdown of the insulation or the shell by an arc, a self-healing or self-extinguishing property. Finally, while maintaining the inventive principle, it is also possible to carry out the combination conductor as an arrangement having a plurality of optical layers or layers separated by intermediate layers. In principle, a line formed according to the invention or the combination conductor can be a line which can be cut to length in accordance with the insert and, if appropriate, can also be coupled to the optical / electrical converter only when it is installed. However, it is also conceivable that the combination conductor is a prefabricated line which is then preferably already connected to the transducer. In the former case, the converter is to be designed in terms of its structural design advantageously so that it can be coupled by a user, so as a device manufacturer, as simple as possible to the monitoring optical fiber. The optical waveguide, which, according to the principles of the invention, simultaneously acts as an insulator or jacket, may for example consist of a polymer. In particular, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and its modifications (for example: crosslinked and fluoridated), polymethylpentene (PMP), if appropriate in combination with its copolymers, or polycarbonate (PC) have proven to be suitable materials. Polycarbonate is characterized for example by a high flexibility and a particularly good temperature resistance. In addition, it is impact resistant and, in the case of an arc caused flame formation, self-extinguishing. Polymethylpentene also has good flexibility and is also suitable for use at high temperatures. In addition, it is very good electrically insulating. All the aforementioned polymers are characterized by a good transparency, ie a high degree of transmission. Furthermore, silicone elastomers or fluoridated polymers are suitable as materials for the optical waveguide. Also for the optical / electrical converter a variety of forms of training are conceivable. From the point of view of a simple and good coupling to the optical waveguide, the transducer is designed according to a proposed embodiment of the invention in the form of an attachable to an axial end of the optical waveguide cap or a slide-on disc, wherein the cap or disc optionally after placement of the electrical conductor is penetrated. However, an embodiment which can be screwed onto an axial end of the optical waveguide is also conceivable, for which purpose a ferrule is optionally provided on the optical waveguide. For the purposes of the invention, it is of course, for example, with appropriate length of the conductor to be monitored, respectively, of the optical waveguide, also conceivable to bring both ends of the optical waveguide with an optical / electrical transducer in combination. However, this of course does not come into consideration in a length-cutable combination of electrical conductor and optical fiber. If such a combination is already provided with a converter or a ferule during production at an axial end of the optical waveguide, it is also possible here to speak of a preassembled line. In a further advantageous possibility for connecting the optical waveguide to the optical / electrical converter, it is provided that the transducer, preferably at one axial end of the optical waveguide, is fused into the optical waveguide. In view of the advancing development in polymer electronics, it is conceivable that the converter also consists of a polymer.

Entsprechend den, bezogen auf die Anzahl der Adern des elektrischen Leiters, möglichen unterschiedlichen Ausführungsformen von Leitungen und der Konfiguration der zu überwachenden Einrichtung sind auch Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung möglich, bei denen mehrere Lichtwellenleiter auf einen optisch/elektrischen Wandler geführt sind. In diesen Fällen kann es sich gegebenenfalls bei dem optisch/elektrischen Wandler um eine CCD-Zeile, eine CCD-Matrix oder um ein CMOS-Array handeln.According to the, based on the number of wires of the electrical conductor, possible different embodiments of lines and the configuration of the device to be monitored and embodiments of the inventive arrangement are possible in which a plurality of optical fibers are guided on an optical / electrical converter. In these cases it can be optionally in the optical / electrical converter to a CCD line, a CCD matrix or a CMOS array act.

Sofern es sich bei der aus elektrischem Leiter und Lichtwellenleiter gebildeten Kombination um eine vorkonfektionierte Leitung fester Länge handelt, bei welcher nur ein axiales Ende des Lichtwellenleiters zur Verbindung mit einem optisch/elektrischen Wandler vorgesehen ist, während das andere Ende (nicht jedoch das Ende des vom Lichtwellenleiter umhüllten elektrischen Leiters) nach dem Einbau in die zu überwachende Einrichtung offen bleibt, ist das freie Ende, entsprechend einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung, verspiegelt. Auf diese Weise ist sichergestellt, dass etwa das Licht in der Nähe dieses Endes entstehender Lichtbögen den Lichtwellenleiter nicht verlässt, sondern durch den Wandler zuverlässig empfangen wird und somit zur Auswertung zur Verfügung steht. Gegebenenfalls kann eine Verspiegelung bei einer längenmäßig zuschneidbaren Leitung, auch durch Abschluss des offenen Endes mit einer reflektierenden Kappe realisiert sein. Die letztgenannte Variante eröffnet die Möglichkeit, in eine solche Kappe einen optischen Sender zu integrieren, mittels welchem beim Einschalten der überwachten elektrischen Einrichtung oder zeitlich gesteuert von der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit ein Selbsttest der Anordnung durchgeführt werden kann. In Auswertung eines von dem optischen Sender ausgesandten Lichtimpulses kann dabei überprüft werden, ob der Lichtwellenleiter unterbrochen oder beschädigt ist.If the combination formed by electrical conductor and optical waveguide is a prefabricated line of fixed length, in which only one axial end of the optical waveguide for connection to an optical / electrical converter is provided, while the other end (but not the end of the Optical waveguide sheathed electrical conductor) remains open after installation in the device to be monitored, the free end, according to an advantageous development, mirrored. In this way, it is ensured that, for example, the light in the vicinity of this end of resulting arcs does not leave the optical waveguide, but is reliably received by the transducer and thus is available for evaluation. Optionally, a reflective coating can be realized in the case of a line which can be cut to length, also by terminating the open end with a reflective cap. The latter variant opens up the possibility of integrating into such a cap an optical transmitter by means of which a self-test of the arrangement can be carried out when the monitored electrical device is switched on or timed by the monitoring and evaluation unit. In evaluation of a light pulse emitted by the optical transmitter can be checked whether the optical fiber is broken or damaged.

Entsprechend einer anderen praxisrelevanten Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind in Lichtwellenleiter mit großer Leitungslänge, wie sie etwa bei der Überwachung elektrischer Verbindungen in Schiffen erforderlich sind, abschnittsweise Lichtverstärker eingeordnet.According to another practice-relevant embodiment of the invention, light guides are in some cases arranged in optical waveguides with a long cable length, as required for example in the monitoring of electrical connections in ships.

Ausdrücklich soll die Erfindung auch solche Anordnungen umfassen, bei denen der den elektrischen Leiter umhüllende Lichtwellenleiter sowohl der Einkopplung des Lichtes eines etwaigen Lichtbogens als auch zur Übertragung sonstiger Nutzsignale innerhalb der überwachten elektrischen Einrichtung dient. Unter Umständen sind dabei, dem Fachmann geläufige Maßnahmen zur Trennung bzw. Unterscheidung eines übertragenen Nutzsignals vom Licht eines Lichtbogens zu treffen, also gegebenenfalls Lichtweichen oder Filter vorzusehen oder das Nutzsignal in einer hierfür geeigneten Weise zu modulieren. Sowohl ein im Falle einer Nutzung des Lichtwellenleiters für Nutzsignale vorhandenes lichtemittierendes Bauelement, als auch der optisch/elektrische Wandler können dabei so ausgebildet sein, dass sie mittels Schlitz-/Klemm-Technik zur Ein- und Auskopplung von Licht von außen an den Wellenleiter angekoppelt werden.The invention is expressly intended to include such arrangements in which the optical waveguide enveloping the electrical conductor serves both to couple in the light of a possible arc and to transmit other useful signals within the monitored electrical device. Under certain circumstances, measures familiar to the person skilled in the art for separating or distinguishing a transmitted useful signal from the light of an arc, that is to say optionally providing light filters or filters, are provided to modulate the useful signal in a manner suitable for this purpose. Both in the case of use of the optical waveguide for useful signals existing light emitting device, as well as the optical / electrical converter can be designed so that they are coupled by means of slit / clamp technology for coupling and decoupling of light from the outside to the waveguide ,

Dabei drücken sie sich durch eine krallenartige Ausbildung mit hervorstehenden optisch aktiven Elementen in den Wellenleiter ein. Gegebenenfalls erfolgt dabei sowohl die optische Kopplung mit dem Lichtwellenleiter, als auch die Kontaktierung des elektrischen Leiters unter Nutzung der Schlitz-/Klemm-Technik.They press themselves by a claw-like formation with protruding optically active elements in the waveguide. Optionally, both the optical coupling with the optical waveguide, as well as the contacting of the electrical conductor using the slot / clamp technique.

Im Falle dessen, dass der Lichtwellenleiter der erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung neben der Detektion von Störlichtbögen auch zur optischen Übertragung von Nutzsignalen verwendet wird, kann die Unterscheidung zwischen durch Störlichtbögen hervorgerufenen Lichtsignalen und optischen Nutzsignalen mittels in der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit hinterlegter Referenzkurven erfolgen. Dabei sind vorzugsweise Referenzkurven für unterschiedliche Typen von Störlichtbögen in der entsprechenden Einheit hinterlegt.In the event that the optical waveguide of the arrangement according to the invention is used in addition to the detection of arcs also for the optical transmission of useful signals, the distinction between caused by arcing arcs light signals and optical useful signals can be done by means of stored in the monitoring and evaluation unit reference curves. Reference curves for different types of arcing faults are preferably stored in the corresponding unit.

Die Signalübertragung zwischen dem optisch/elektrischen Wandler und der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit kann selbstverständlich ebenfalls über einen durch einen Lichtwellenleiter umhüllten elektrischen Leiter erfolgen, wobei der Lichtwellenleiter gegebenenfalls, der vorhergehenden Überlegung folgend, auch zur Übertragung von Nutzsignalen dient. Denkbar ist es aber ebenso, die Signalübertragung zwischen dem Wandler und der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit unter Nutzung der so genannten "Power-Line-Technik" zu realisieren, bei welcher die Signalübertragung über Energieversorgungsleitungen der überwachten Einrichtung erfolgt.The signal transmission between the optical / electrical converter and the monitoring and evaluation unit can, of course, likewise take place via an electrical conductor enveloped by an optical waveguide, the optical waveguide possibly also serving to transmit wanted signals following the previous consideration. However, it is also conceivable to realize the signal transmission between the converter and the monitoring and evaluation unit using the so-called "power line technology", in which the signal transmission takes place via energy supply lines of the monitored device.

Die Erfindung soll nachfolgend anhand eines Ausführungsbeispiels nochmals näher erläutert werden. In den zughörigen Zeichnungen zeigen:

Fig. 1:
Eine grundsätzliche Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit einer längen- mäßig zuschneidbaren Leitung.
Fig. 2:
Die in Fig. 1 dargestellte Erfindung unter Verwendung einer vorkonfek- tionierten Leitung fester Länge.
Fig. 3:
Eine Ausbildung der erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung zur Überwachung des inneren einer Steckvorrichtung.
Fig. 4:
Eine Ausbildungsform mit einem aufsteckbaren optisch/elektrischen Wandler.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to an embodiment. In the accompanying drawings show:
Fig. 1:
A basic embodiment of the invention with a lengthwise cutable line.
Fig. 2:
In the Fig. 1 illustrated invention using a vorkonfek- tioned line of fixed length.
3:
An embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention for monitoring the interior of a plug-in device.
4:
An embodiment with a plug-on optical / electrical converter.

Durch die Fig. 1 wird die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung in einer symbolischen Darstellung wiedergegeben. Die Anordnung umfasst einen Lichtwellenleiter 2, einen optisch/elektrischen Wandler 3 und eine Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit 4 zur Auswertung der Signale des vorgenannten Wandlers 3. Unmittelbarer Bestandteil der Anordnung ist weiterhin ein elektrischer Leiter 1, welcher hier nicht dargestellte Schaltungsteile, Baugruppen oder -geräte einer elektrischen Einrichtung verbindet und, dem Grundgedanken der Erfindung entsprechend, über nahezu seine gesamte Länge von dem Lichtwellenleiter 2 umhüllt ist. Der elektrische Leiter 1 bildet dabei quasi einen nicht optischen Kern des Lichtwellenleiters 2 aus. In dem Beispiel nach Fig. 1 handelt es sich um eine längenmäßig zuschneidbare elektrische Leitung, die mittels der anderen Anordnungsteile auf Lichtbögen überwacht und deren Isolation vom Lichtwellenleiter 2 ausgebildet wird. Im Falle des Auftretens eines von dem elektrischen Leiter 1 ausgehenden Lichtbogens wird das dabei entstehende Licht unmittelbar im Inneren des Lichtwellenleiters 2 in den Lichtwellenleiter 2 eingekoppelt. Durch den Lichtwellenleiter 2 wird das Licht dem optisch/elektrischen Wandler 3 zugeführt, dessen Signale von der Überwachungs- und Auswerteeinheit 4 verarbeitet werden. Je nach Ausbildung der Auswerte- und Überwachungseinheit 4 kann durch diese, im Falle des Auftretens eines Lichtbogens, ein Warnsignal aktiviert oder eine ein geeignetes Schaltelement umfassende Schaltungseinheit angesteuert werden, welche den von dem Lichtbogen betroffenen Schaltungsabschnitt unterbricht. Die zur geeigneten Auswertung des Detektorsignals erforderlichen Elemente und Schaltungseinheiten sind dem Fachmann bekannt und sollen hier nicht Gegenstand näherer Erläuterungen sein.By the Fig. 1 the arrangement according to the invention is reproduced in a symbolic representation. The arrangement comprises an optical waveguide 2, an optical / electrical converter 3 and a monitoring and evaluation unit 4 for evaluating the signals of the aforementioned converter 3. The immediate component of the arrangement is furthermore an electrical conductor 1, which circuit parts, assemblies or devices not shown here an electrical device connects and, according to the basic idea of the invention, over almost its entire length is enveloped by the optical waveguide 2. The electrical conductor 1 forms quasi a non-optical core of the optical waveguide 2 from. In the example below Fig. 1 It is a length cut to size electrical line, which monitors the means of other parts of the arrangement on arcs and their isolation is formed by the optical waveguide 2. In the case of the occurrence of an outgoing of the electrical conductor 1 arc, the resulting light is coupled directly into the interior of the optical waveguide 2 in the optical waveguide 2. Through the optical waveguide 2, the light is supplied to the optical / electrical converter 3, whose signals are processed by the monitoring and evaluation unit 4. Depending on the design of the evaluation and monitoring unit 4 can be activated by this, in the case of the occurrence of an arc, a warning signal or a suitable switching element comprehensive circuit unit can be controlled, which interrupts the circuit section affected by the arc. The elements and circuit units required for suitable evaluation of the detector signal are known to the person skilled in the art and should not be the subject of further explanation here.

Die Abschaltung eines von einem Lichtbogen betroffenen Leitungskreises kann beispielsweise mittels eines entsprechend angesteuerten Relais geschehen. Sofern der optisch/elektrische Wandler 3 eine entsprechende Fläche besitzt, ist es, abweichend von der durch die Fig. 1 gegebenen Darstellung, auch möglich, dass auf diesen mehrere, jeweils als Mantel von elektrischen Leitern dienende Lichtwellenleiter 2 geführt sind. Bei komplizierten Konstellationen ist auch die Verwendung einer CCD-Zeile oder -matrix für den optisch/elektrischen Wandler 3 denkbar.The shutdown of an affected by an arc circuit group can be done for example by means of a correspondingly controlled relay. If the optical / electrical converter 3 has a corresponding surface, it is different from that by the Fig. 1 Given representation, also possible that several, each serving as a sheath of electrical conductors optical waveguide 2 are performed on this. In complicated constellations, the use of a CCD line or matrix for the optical / electrical converter 3 is conceivable.

Die Fig. 2 stellt eine geringfügig modifizierte Variante der Anordnung nach der Fig. 1 dar. Anders als in der Fig. 1, handelt es sich hier bei der durch den elektrischen Leiter 1 und den ihn umhüllenden Lichtwellenleiter 2 ausgebildeten Leitung um eine vorkonfektionierte Leitung mit fester Länge. Um den elektrischen Leiter 1 an den dafür vorgesehenen Stellen anklemmen bzw. kontaktieren zu können, sind dessen Enden radial aus dem zur Überwachung dienenden Lichtwellenleiter 2 herausgeführt. Als besonders vorteilhaft ist es anzusehen, dass ein solcher mit einem Lichtwellenleiter 2 versehener elektrischer Leiter 1, unabhängig davon, ob er hinsichtlich seiner Länge variabel oder festgelegt ist, bei der Herstellung in einem einzigen Extrusionsschritt gleichzeitig mit einer elektrischen Isolation und dem zu seiner späteren Überwachung dienenden Lichtwellenleiter 2 umhüllt werden kann. Abhängig vom Einsatzfall kann es gegebenenfalls zweckmäßig sein, einen solchermaßen ausgebildeten Kombinationsleiter aus Stabilitätsgründen oder zur Verringerung von Fremdlichteinflüssen noch mit einem zusätzlichen lichtundurchlässigen Mantel 7 zu versehen. Zur weiteren Anpassung können noch ergänzende Maßnahmen oder besondere Ausbildungen des optisch/elektrischen Wandlers 3 erforderlich sein. So kann es erforderlich bzw. zweckmäßig sein den optisch/elektrischen Wandler 3 zur Unterdrückung des Einflusses des Umgebungslichtes mit entsprechenden Filterelementen zu koppeln. Eine weitere, die Leitung betreffende Maßnahme besteht in der eventuellen Verspiegelung eines gegebenenfalls freien axialen Endes des Lichtwellenleiters 2. Dies kann im Hinblick auf eine zuverlässige Auswertung des in den Lichtwellenleiter 2 von einem Lichtbogen eingetragenen Lichtes vorteilhaft sein. Schließlich kann bei größeren Leitungslängen, beispielsweise im Schiffsbau, die Zwischenschaltung von Lichtverstärkern in den Lichtwellenleiter 2 erforderlich sein.The Fig. 2 represents a slightly modified variant of the arrangement according to the Fig. 1 dar. Unlike in the Fig. 1 , It is here in the formed by the electrical conductor 1 and the optical waveguide 2 enveloping him line to a pre-assembled line with a fixed length. In order to connect or contact the electrical conductor 1 at the designated locations, its ends are led out radially from the serving for monitoring optical fiber 2. It is to be regarded as particularly advantageous that such an electrical conductor 1 provided with an optical waveguide 2, irrespective of whether it is variable or fixed in terms of its length, is manufactured simultaneously in a single extrusion step with an electrical insulation and for its subsequent monitoring Serving optical waveguide 2 can be wrapped. Depending on the application, it may be expedient to provide a combination conductor designed in this way for reasons of stability or to reduce extraneous light influences with an additional light-impermeable jacket 7. For further adaptation, additional measures or special designs of the optical / electrical converter 3 may be required. Thus, it may be necessary or expedient to couple the optical / electrical converter 3 to suppress the influence of the ambient light with corresponding filter elements. A further measure relating to the line consists in the possible mirroring of an optionally free axial end of the optical waveguide 2. This can be registered with respect to a reliable evaluation of the in the optical waveguide 2 of an arc Light be beneficial. Finally, with larger cable lengths, for example in shipbuilding, the interposition of light amplifiers in the optical waveguide 2 may be required.

Die Fig. 3 zeigt, dass die in der beschriebenen Weise aufgebaute Leitung, bestehend aus elektrischem Leiter 1 und Lichtwellenleiter 2, dem grundsätzlichen Gedanken der Erfindung folgend, auch zur Überwachung von Kontaktstellen, wie beispielsweise des Inneren von Steckverbindungen 5 einsetzbar ist. Dazu wird die Leitung einschließlich des ihn umgebenden Lichtwellenleiters 2 unmittelbar bis in die entsprechende zur überwachende Kontaktstelle hineingeführt. In diesem Falle wird das von einem eventuellen Lichtbogen ausgehende Licht axial über die Stirnfläche 6 des Lichtwellenleiters 2 eingekoppelt und dem optisch/elektrischen Wandler 3 zugeführt. Die sonstige Wirkungsweise ist die gleiche wie bereits zur Fig. 1 beschrieben. Im Hinblick darauf, dass die Erfindung auch für eine Überwachung komplexerer elektrischer oder elektronischer Einrichtungen bestimmt ist, kann es sich bei der in der Fig. 3 mit dem Bezugszeichen 5 gekennzeichneten Einheit gegebenenfalls auch um ein komplettes Gerät mit vorzugsweise kleinen Abmaßen handeln, in dessen Gehäuse der erfindungsgemäße Kombinationsleiter zur Detektion eventuell auftretender Störlichtbögen hineingeführt und dort beispielsweise über eine Klemmverbindung oder eine ähnliche Verbindung mit dem Gerät verbunden ist. Neben den, bei der Erläuterung der Fig. 1 und Fig. 2 bereits dargestellten Maßnahmen zur Anpassung der Anordnung an den jeweiligen Einsatzfall kann außerdem der optisch/elektrische Wandler 3 in unterschiedlicher Weise ausgebildet sein. Entsprechend einer vorteilhaften, durch die Fig. 4 dargestellten Ausführungsform kann der Wandler 3 als eine auf den Lichtwellenleiter 2 aufsteckbare Kappe ausgebildet sein. Dabei wird der kappenförmige Wandler 3 in dem dargestellten Beispiel von dem elektrischen Leiter 1 durchragt. Zur weiteren Verringerung des Einflusses des Umgebungslichtes und/oder zur Erhöhung der Durchschlagfestigkeit ist die aus dem elektrischen Leiter 1 und dem Lichtwellenleiter 2 bestehende Leitung im Beispiel von einem zusätzlichen isolierenden und lichtundurchlässigen Mantel 7 umhüllt.The Fig. 3 shows that the constructed in the manner described, consisting of electrical conductor 1 and optical fiber 2, the basic idea of the invention, also for monitoring of contact points, such as the interior of connectors 5 is used. For this purpose, the line including the surrounding optical waveguide 2 is led directly into the corresponding contact point to be monitored. In this case, the light emanating from a possible arc is coupled in axially via the end face 6 of the optical waveguide 2 and fed to the optical / electrical converter 3. The other mode of action is the same as already for Fig. 1 described. In view of the fact that the invention is also intended for monitoring more complex electrical or electronic equipment, it may be in the Fig. 3 optionally denoted by the reference numeral 5 unit to a complete device with preferably small dimensions, in the housing of the combination conductor according to the invention for detecting any arcing faults introduced and connected there, for example via a clamp connection or a similar connection to the device. In addition to, in explaining the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 In addition, the measures already described for adapting the arrangement to the respective application case may be configured differently for the optical / electrical converter 3. According to an advantageous, by the Fig. 4 illustrated embodiment, the transducer 3 may be formed as an attachable to the optical waveguide 2 cap. In this case, the cap-shaped transducer 3 is penetrated by the electrical conductor 1 in the illustrated example. To further reduce the influence of the ambient light and / or to increase the dielectric strength, the existing of the electrical conductor 1 and the optical waveguide 2 line is wrapped in the example of an additional insulating and opaque jacket 7.

Für die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung bzw. den Kombinationsleiter sind die unterschiedlichsten Einsatzgebiete denkbar. Neben der Überwachung stationärer Geräte kommt dabei insbesondere auch ein Einsatz zum Erkennen von Drahtbrüchen oder sich andeutenden Drahtbrüchen von sich in Bewegung befindlichen elektrischen Ansteuer- und Versorgungsleitungen - beispielsweise im Automobilbau oder in der Robotertechnik - in Betracht. Auch im Zusammenhang mit der Verwendung der Brennstoffzellentechnik in Hybridfahrzeugen ist ihr Einsatz denkbar. Ebenso erscheint der Einsatz bei Photovoltaikanlagen, bei denen ein eventuell auftretender Lichtbogen durch ihre Stromquellencharakteristik gegebenenfalls bis zum Dunkelwerden, respektive bis zum Einsetzen der Nacht brennen würde, sinnvoll.For the arrangement according to the invention or the combination conductor the most diverse applications are conceivable. In addition to the monitoring of stationary devices is in particular also an application for detecting wire breaks or emerging wire breaks of moving electrical control and supply lines - for example in automotive or in robotics - into consideration. Also in connection with the use of fuel cell technology in hybrid vehicles their use is conceivable. Similarly, the use of photovoltaic systems, in which a possibly occurring arc through their current source characteristic, where appropriate, burn until dark, or until the onset of the night, makes sense.

Liste der verwendeten BezugszeichenList of reference numbers used

11
Elektrischer LeiterElectrical conductor
22
Lichtwellenleiteroptical fiber
33
(Optisch/elektrischer) Wandler(Optical / electrical) converter
44
Überwachungs- und AuswerteeinheitMonitoring and evaluation unit
55
Klemm- oder Steckverbindung, ggf. GerätClamp or plug connection, if necessary device
66
Stirnfläche des LichtwellenleitersFace of the optical fiber
77
Isolierender MantelInsulating coat

Claims (28)

  1. Arrangement for monitoring electrical devices for the occurrence of accidental arcs, consisting of at least one electrical conductor (1) in the form of a single-core or multiple-core cord or a cable, which connects devices, modules or circuit parts of the electrical device to each other, means which guide the light resulting from the formation of an arc from its place of origin to an optical/electrical converter (3), and a monitoring and analysis unit (4) which is connected electrically to the converter (3) to analyse the signals of the converter (3), characterized in that the means which guide the light resulting from the formation of the arc onto the optical/electrical converter (3) involve at least one optical waveguide (2), which envelops one or more cores of the electrical conductor (1) and simultaneously forms the electrical insulation of a cord or the sheath of a cable.
  2. Arrangement according to Claim 1, characterized in that the arrangement responds to an arc which the electrical conductor (1) emits, the light from the arc being coupled directly into the optical waveguide (2) within the optical waveguide (2).
  3. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the arrangement responds to an arc which occurs at a contact point, in the form of a clamped or plug-and-socket connection (5), of the electrical conductor (1) with other units of the electrical device, the optical waveguide (2) being guided into the contact point, and the light from the arc being coupled axially into a face (6) of the optical waveguide (2).
  4. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it includes means for interrupting the current through those circuit parts of the electrical device which are affected by an arc, and which are activated by the monitoring and analysis unit (4) because of the detection of the arc.
  5. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2), which envelops one or more cores of the electrical conductor (1), is enveloped by an additional electrically insulating, opaque sheath (7).
  6. Arrangement according to Claim 5, characterized in that the inner surface of the additional outer sheath (7) is in optically reflecting form, a light-reflecting foil preferably being arranged on the inside of the sheath (7).
  7. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, with an electrical conductor (1) which is not flat on the outer surface, characterized in that the electrical conductor (1), to obtain a flat surface, is provided with a levelling layer which is arranged between it and the optical waveguide (2), and which is preferably light-reflecting.
  8. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the electrical conductor (1) in the form of a wire or cable is enveloped by multiple optical waveguides (2), which are separated by intermediate layers.
  9. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the combined conductor which is formed by the enveloping of the electrical conductor (1) with the optical waveguide (2) is in the form of a cord which can be tailored for length.
  10. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2), which simultaneously functions as an insulation or sheath, consists of a polymer.
  11. Arrangement according to Claim 10, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2) consists of polymethyl methacrylate.
  12. Arrangement according to Claim 10, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2) consists of polymethyl pentene.
  13. Arrangement according to Claim 10, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2) consists of polycarbonate.
  14. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that on or in the optical/electrical converter (3), filters to suppress the effect of external light are arranged.
  15. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter (3) is in the form of a cap which can be plugged onto an axial end of the optical waveguide (2) or a disc which can be pushed on, the cap or disc being penetrated by the electrical conductor (1).
  16. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 14, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter (3) can be screwed onto an axial end of the optical waveguide (2).
  17. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 14, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter (3) is fused into the optical waveguide (2).
  18. Arrangement according to Claim 10 or 17, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter consists of a polymer.
  19. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the optical waveguides (2) of multiple electrical conductors (1) are guided onto one optical/electrical converter (3).
  20. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 19, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter (3) is in the form of a CCD row, a CCD matrix or a CMOS array.
  21. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that an optical waveguide (2) axial end which is not terminated by an optical/electrical converter (3) is metallised or provided with a reflective cap.
  22. Arrangement according to Claim 21, characterized in that an optical transmitter to carry out a self-test of the arrangement is arranged in the reflective cap, the cap being in the form of a semi-transparent mirror, which is transparent for the light from the optical transmitter which is arranged in the cap.
  23. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in very long optical waveguides (2), light amplifiers are arranged in sections.
  24. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the optical waveguide (2) which envelops the electrical conductor (1) is used both to couple in the light of any arc and to transmit other useful signals within the monitored electrical device.
  25. Arrangement according to Claim 24, characterized in that the distinction between light signals which are caused by accidental arcs and the useful optical signals is made using reference curves which are held in the monitoring and analysis unit (4) for different types of accidental arcs.
  26. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 24, characterized in that the optical/electrical converter (3), and light-emitting components which are present in the case of use of the optical waveguide (2) for transmitting useful signals, are coupled from outside by means of slot terminal technology onto the waveguide (2) for coupling light in and out, and press into the waveguide (2) by a claw-like form with projecting optically active elements.
  27. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the information exchange between the optical/electrical converter (3) and the monitoring and analysis unit (4) takes place via an electrical conductor (1) which is enveloped by an optical waveguide (2).
  28. Arrangement according to Claim 27, characterized in that the information exchange between the optical/electrical converter (3) and the monitoring and analysis unit (4) takes place via a power cord which is simultaneously used to supply energy to the monitored electrical device.
EP04765342A 2003-09-09 2004-09-09 Arrangement for monitoring electric devices on stray light arcs Active EP1665307B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10342370A DE10342370B3 (en) 2003-09-09 2003-09-09 Arrangement for monitoring electrical devices for the generation of arcing faults
PCT/EP2004/010449 WO2005027160A2 (en) 2003-09-09 2004-09-09 Arrangement for monitoring electric devices on stray light arcs

Publications (2)

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EP1665307A2 EP1665307A2 (en) 2006-06-07
EP1665307B1 true EP1665307B1 (en) 2009-11-11

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US (1) US7767957B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1665307B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4907346B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE448558T1 (en)
DE (2) DE10342370B3 (en)
DK (1) DK1665307T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2005027160A2 (en)

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US7767957B2 (en) 2010-08-03
JP4907346B2 (en) 2012-03-28
US20070023618A1 (en) 2007-02-01
DE502004010362D1 (en) 2009-12-24
JP2007505446A (en) 2007-03-08
DK1665307T3 (en) 2010-03-08
WO2005027160A3 (en) 2005-06-09
EP1665307A2 (en) 2006-06-07
ATE448558T1 (en) 2009-11-15
DE10342370B3 (en) 2005-04-28
WO2005027160A2 (en) 2005-03-24

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