EP2936533B1 - Modular electrical switch device comprising at least one unipolar cut-off unit and a switch assembly comprising such devices - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a modular electrical switching device comprising a breaking block associated with an actuating block. The cutoff unit comprises, in a first footprint of a base, at least unitary breaking units having electrical cutoff means controlled by the actuating block. The actuation block comprises an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the electric breaking means. The base of the cutoff block comprises at least a second cavity having an internal volume defined by a wall, said second cavity being positioned between an outer face of said base and the first cavity.

The invention relates to a switching assembly comprising a first and a second modular electrical switching device according to the invention, said device placed side by side being electrically connected.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

The use of unitary breaking units in multipole protection and / or switching devices such as circuit breaker, contactor-breaker, contactor is known. The unitary cutoff units can be housed in a multipolar package ( US4684772 ). The multipolar devices are then modular in the sense that the same breaking block can be duplicated three times in a three-pole switching device and four times in a four-pole device.

When several breaking units are assembled in a box of a switching device, there arises in particular the problem of the synchronized control of the different cutoff blocks. Existing more or less complex solutions describe means for controlling and actuating the breaking blocks. The use of complex control means may have problems of reliability over time.

In addition, some switching devices include electronic control means. The use of electronic control means generally greatly reduces the volume of the device and its consumption. It also opens the contactor to communication. However, if the control means are controlled and powered by an electronic control additional problems may appear. Indeed the level and maintenance periods required by the means electronic and electromechanical means included in the same device are not the same knowing that the overall maintenance must remain easy and low cost. This is all the more true that the lifetimes of the electronic control means and the associated electromechanics can be very different depending on the application.

Thus the modularity of the switching device allows the user to obtain a product whose performance is actually adapted to the use it makes. The counterpart of this modularity is the certain complexity of realization of such a multipolar switching device. The complexity is real in terms of realization of the architecture and in terms of the maintenance of the switching device.

The modularity of the multipolar switching device can also relate to the introduction and use of an electronic thermal protection device. The integration of a removable electronic thermal protection in the volume of the switching device is then possible at the cost of adaptation means having a certain complexity. This additional complexity can be increased when several switching devices are interconnected to control a motor including in particular an inverter mode.

The document EP0645792 describes a device according to the preamble of claim 1.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention therefore aims to remedy the drawbacks of the state of the art, by proposing an electronically controlled electrical switching device comprising a simplified modular architecture accepting one or more breaking blocks.

• des premières ouvertures débouchant respectivement dans des parois principales du dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique ;
• des secondes ouvertures de raccordement débouchant à proximité des plages de raccordement du dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique.

According to a preferred embodiment, the second footprint of the base of the breaking block of the modular electrical switching device according to the invention comprises:

• first openings respectively opening into main walls of the modular electrical switching device;
• second connection openings opening near the connection areas of the modular electrical switching device.

The first and second openings allow the passage of electrical conductors connecting at least one electrical pole of a first modular electrical switching device to an electrical pole of a second modular electrical switching device placed against the first.

Preferably, the internal volume of the second impression is substantially of a shape parallelepiped and has an open face on the outer face of the modular contactor.

• des premières ouvertures débouchant respectivement dans les parois principales du dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique ;
• des secondes ouvertures débouchant à proximité des plages de raccordement du dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique.

According to a development mode of the invention, the second footprint of the base of the breaking block comprises two channels arranged relative to each other substantially parallel, the internal volumes of each channel comprising:

• first openings respectively opening into the main walls of the modular electrical switching device;
• second openings opening near the connection areas of the modular electrical switching device.

The first and second openings allowing the passage of electrical conductors connecting at least one electrical pole of a first modular electrical switching device to an electrical pole of a second modular electrical switching device placed against the first.

Preferably, the second openings of the first channel open near the upstream connection pads of the modular electrical switching device and the second openings of the second channel open in the vicinity of the downstream connection pads of said modular electrical switching device.

The switching assembly comprising a first and a second modular electrical switching device according to the invention comprises electrical conductors positioned respectively inside the second indentations of the two bases of the two modular contactors.

Preferably, an upstream connection range of a first electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to an upstream connection range of the first electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device. A downstream connection range of the first electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to a downstream connection range of the third electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device. An upstream connection range of the second electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to an upstream connection area of the second electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device. A downstream connection range of the second electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to a downstream connection area of the second electrical pole of the second modular device of electrical switching. An upstream connection range of the third electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to the upstream connection range of the third electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device. A downstream connection range of the third electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device is connected to the downstream connection range of the first electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device.

Preferably, the electrical conductors connecting the electrical poles of the first modular electrical switching device to the electrical poles of the second modular electrical switching device are rigid or semi-rigid.

Preferably, the electrical conductors are arranged in two groups respectively comprising three inversion bars.

Preferably, the electrical conductors of the same group are held together by a clamp.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

• La figure 1 représente une vue en perspective d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique selon l'invention ;
• La figure 2 représente une vue en perspective d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique selon la figure 1 en cours d'assemblage ;
• La figure 3 représente une vue en coupe d'un bloc de coupure et d'un bloc d'actionnement selon la figure 2 dans une position non assemblée ;
• La figure 4 représente une vue en coupe d'un bloc de coupure et d'un bloc d'actionnement selon la figure 2 dans une position en cours d'assemblage ;
• La figure 5A représente une vue éclatée en perspective d'un bloc d'actionnement d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique selon la figure 1 ;
• La figure 5B représente une vue en perspective d'un bloc d'actionnement d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique selon la figure 5A ;
• Les figures 6A, 7A et 8A représentent des vues en coupe d'un bloc unitaire de coupure au cours des étapes d'un procédé de réglage de la course d'écrasement de contact selon l'invention ;
• Les figures 6B, 7B et 8B représentent des vues en perspective d'un bloc unitaire de coupure au cours des étapes du procédé de réglage de la course d'écrasement de contact selon l'invention ;
• Les figures 9A et 9B représentent des vues en coupes d'un bloc unitaire de coupure respectivement dans une position d'ouverture et une position de fermeture ;
• Les figures 10A et 10B représentent des vues en coupe partielle d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation électrique selon l'invention en cours de montage ;
• La figure 11 représente deux demi-coques assemblées d'un mode particulier de réalisation d'un bloc de coupure unitaire d'un bloc de coupure selon l'invention ;
• La figure 12 représente les deux demi-coques d'un bloc de coupure selon la figure 11 en cours d'assemblage ;
• La figure 13 représente une vue en perspective d'un socle d'un bloc de coupure selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• La figure 14 représente deux demi-coques assemblées d'un autre mode particulier de réalisation d'un bloc de coupure unitaire d'un bloc de coupure selon l'invention ;
• La figure 15 représente deux demi-coques d'un bloc de coupure selon la figure 14 en cours d'assemblage ;
• La figure 16 représente une vue en perspective en coupe partielle d'un bloc de coupure selon un mode de réalisation ;
• Les figures 17 et 18 représentent des vues en perspective de différents modes particuliers de réalisation des moyens de coupure d'un bloc de coupure unitaire ;
• La figure 19 représente un schéma de câblage de deux dispositifs de commutation placés en amont d'un moteur dans un mode de type inverseur ;
• La figure 20 représente un schéma de câblage selon la figure 19 selon un mode non fonctionnel de réalisation ;
• Les figures 21 et 22 représentent des vues en perspective de deux dispositifs de commutation câblés dans un mode de type inverseur ;
• Les figures 23 à 25 représentent des vues en perspective de coté de deux dispositifs de commutation câblés dans un mode de type inverseur ;
• Les figures 26 et 27 représentent des vues en perspective de barres de liaison utilisées pour relier deux dispositifs de commutation modulaires dans un mode de type inverseur ;
• Les figures 28A et 28B représentent des vues en perspective de blocs de contacts auxiliaires dans un premier mode particulier de développement de l'invention ;
• Les figures 29A et 29B représentent des vues en perspective de blocs de contacts auxiliaires dans un second mode particulier de développement de l'invention ;
• Les figures 30A et 30B représentent des vues en perspective d'une variante de réalisation des moyens de commande des blocs de contacts auxiliaires selon les figures 29A et 29B ;
• Les figures 31 A et 31 B représentent des vues en perspective de variantes de réalisation d'un équipage mobile 220 d'un bloc d'actionnement d'un dispositif modulaire de commutation selon l'invention.

Other advantages and features will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular embodiments of the invention, given by way of non-limiting examples, and represented in the accompanying drawings in which:

• The figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular electrical switching device according to the invention;
• The figure 2 represents a perspective view of a modular electrical switching device according to the figure 1 during assembly;
• The figure 3 represents a sectional view of a breaking block and an actuating block according to the figure 2 in an unassembled position;
• The figure 4 represents a sectional view of a breaking block and an actuating block according to the figure 2 in a position during assembly;
• The Figure 5A represents an exploded perspective view of an actuating block of a modular electrical switching device according to the figure 1 ;
• The Figure 5B represents a perspective view of an actuating block of a modular electrical switching device according to the Figure 5A ;
• The Figures 6A, 7A and 8A represent sectional views of a unitary breaking block during the steps of a method of adjusting the contact crush stroke according to the invention;
• The FIGS. 6B, 7B and 8B are perspective views of a unitary cutoff unit during the steps of the method of adjusting the contact crush stroke according to the invention;
• The Figures 9A and 9B represent sectional views of a unitary cut-off block respectively in an open position and a closed position;
• The Figures 10A and 10B represent partial sectional views of a modular electrical switching device according to the invention being assembled;
• The figure 11 represents two assembled half-shells of a particular embodiment of a unitary breaking block of a breaking block according to the invention;
• The figure 12 represents the two half-shells of a break block according to the figure 11 during assembly;
• The figure 13 is a perspective view of a base of a breaking block according to one embodiment of the invention;
• The figure 14 represents two assembled half-shells of another particular embodiment of a unitary breaking block of a breaking block according to the invention;
• The figure 15 represents two half-shells of a break block according to the figure 14 during assembly;
• The figure 16 is a perspective view in partial section of a cutoff block according to one embodiment;
• The Figures 17 and 18 represent perspective views of various particular embodiments of the cut-off means of a unitary breaking block;
• The figure 19 represents a wiring diagram of two switching devices placed upstream of a motor in an inverter type mode;
• The figure 20 represents a wiring diagram according to the figure 19 according to a non-functional embodiment;
• The Figures 21 and 22 are perspective views of two wired switching devices in an inverter mode;
• The Figures 23 to 25 are side perspective views of two wired switching devices in an inverter mode;
• The Figures 26 and 27 are perspective views of link bars used to connect two modular switching devices in an inverter mode;
• The Figures 28A and 28B represent perspective views of auxiliary contact blocks in a first particular mode of development of the invention;
• The Figures 29A and 29B show perspective views of auxiliary contact blocks in a second particular embodiment of the invention;
• The Figures 30A and 30B represent perspective views of an alternative embodiment of the control means of the auxiliary contact blocks according to the Figures 29A and 29B ;
• The FIGS. 31A and 31B represent perspective views of alternative embodiments of a mobile assembly 220 of an actuating block of a modular switching device according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

The modular electrical switching device 1 according to the invention as shown in FIG. figure 1 comprises a breaking block 100 associated with an actuating block 200. The modular electrical switching device 1 is preferably a contactor. The terms contactor or switching device or modular electrical switching device will be used thereafter without distinction.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the modular contactor 1 according to the invention comprises fast fixing means allowing the attachment of the actuating block 200 to the breaking block 100 removably.

In addition, according to this preferred embodiment of the invention, as shown on the Figures 10A and 10B the actuating block 200 comprises an actuating module 230 connected to a removable electrical control module 250.

The removable electrical control module 250 may comprise electronic control means powered by a control electronics. The terms removable electric control module 250 or removable electronic control module 250 will be used thereafter without distinction.

The actuation module 230 comprises in known manner an electromagnetic type actuator more particularly comprising a fixed yoke 201 and a movable armature 202 able to move relative to the fixed yoke 201 between two positions, an open position and a closed position. The electromagnetic actuator also comprises an actuating coil which when traversed by a control current makes it possible to move the movable armature 202 from its open position to its closed position.

A return spring 204 moves the movable armature 202 from its closed position to its open position. According to a particular embodiment as represented on the Figures 3 and 4 , the return spring 204 acts on the mobile armature 202 via a rotary lever 205.

According to a preferred mode of development of the actuator represented on the Figures 5A, 5B , the fixed armature 201 comprises a U-shaped section having two outer branches and a transverse armature secured to a first end of the outer branches. The actuator comprises an actuating coil preferably comprising two control coils 203 electrically connected. The two windings respectively comprise a longitudinal axis substantially coinciding with that of the outer branches of the U-shaped magnetic yoke. In fact, said control windings 203 are wound on insulating carcasses placed on the outer branches of the magnetic yoke 201. two control coils 203 are preferably identical.

According to one embodiment of the invention as represented on the Figures 5A and 5B , the return spring 204 is able to move a moving element 220 from its closed position to its open position. As shown on the Figure 5B , the mobile assembly 220 comprises the mobile armature 202 of the actuator positioned in a tray 211. The return spring acts on a multi-function lever 215 integral with the tray 211. Said multi-function lever 205 is arranged to manage a balancing of the mobile armature 202 to allow simultaneous closing of the 3 power poles while reducing friction.

As shown on Figures 29A and 29B , the multi-function lever 205 also allows the drive of the auxiliary contact blocks and the provision of a visu front panel of the modular electrical switching device 1.

As shown on FIGS. 31A and 31B , the multifunction lever 205 can be slaved in two ways. As shown on the figure 31 A a torsion spring 206 is used to maintain it in an operating position. As shown on the figure 31 B a compression spring is used to maintain it in an operating position.

The actuator also preferably comprises polar plates 215 fixed to the outer branches of the U-shaped magnetic yoke. Said plates make it possible to improve the magnetic behavior of the actuator.

The actuator may be of the monostable or bistable type. In the case of a bistable actuator, said actuator comprises at least one permanent magnet preferably placed between the two polar plates 215.

According to a development mode of the invention not shown, the magnetic yoke 201 has an E-shaped section having two outer branches, at least one central branch, and a transverse reinforcement secured to a first end of the outer and central branches. The movable armature is placed opposite the second ends of the outer branches and moves in translation. The movable armature also comprises an E-shaped section comprising two outer branches, at least one central branch, and a transverse frame secured to a first end of the outer and central branches. The control coil having a longitudinal axis substantially coincides with that of the central branch of the magnetic yoke E. In fact, said control coil comprises a winding wound on an insulating casing placed on the central branch of the magnetic yoke.

The actuator is positioned in a housing of the actuating module 230. The control coils 203 of the actuating coil comprise connection terminals 207 intended to come into contact with the adaptive connection means of the removable electrical control module 250. As represented in particular on the Figure 5B each control winding 203 has two connection terminals 207.

According to a first exemplary embodiment as represented on the figure 28A the four connection terminals 207 of the two control coils 203 are preferably aligned. According to a second exemplary embodiment as represented on the Figure 5B the four connection terminals 207 of the two control coils 203 are preferably arranged diagonally. These two provisions of the terminals 207 allow in particular to adapt to different configuration of the removable electrical control module 250.

According to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the removable electrical control module 250 comprises electronic control means powered by a control electronics. Removable electronic control module 250 is then intended to ensure a repetitive and constant operation of the actuator for a wide range of supply voltage. Said removable electronic control module is positioned and fixed on the housing of the actuating module 230. At the time of its positioning on said housing, the connection terminals 207 of the control coils 203 are automatically interconnected with the adaptive connection means of the module Removable electronic control device 250. According to a preferred embodiment, the adaptive connection means are integrated directly into a Printed Circuit Boar (PCB) of the removable electrical control module 250. Depending on the version of the electronic control means used and depending on the control voltage of the modular contactor, the connection between the two control coils 203 judiciously distributed on the two outer branches of the magnetic yoke 201 of the actuator can be in series or in parallel. The adaptive connection means allow a series or parallel connection of the two control coils 203 at the time of connection of the removable electrical control module 250 to the actuating module 230. The adaptive connection means thus allow a wider adaptation as needed for the application while maintaining an actuation coil common to all applications.

According to a first particular embodiment of the adaptive connection means, the printed circuit board (PCB) of the removable electrical control module 250 comprises electrical tracks designed and configured to connect the terminals 207 of the control coils 203 in series.

According to a second particular embodiment of the adaptive connection means, the printed circuit board (PCB) of the removable electrical control module 250 comprises electrical tracks designed and configured to connect the terminals 207 of the control coils 203 in parallel. The control commands as well as the power supply of the control coils 203 pass through these connection terminals 207.

This removable electric control module 250 may comprise several variants depending on the intended application (in particular according to the network voltage). Said module is preferably mounted last on a contactor or contactor equipped with a thermal protection (choke). The final choice of the electrical control module to install allows the installer to make a delayed differentiation. This removable electrical control module 250 may also be provided with connections allowing communication, for example with a management computer of the installation, a configuration tool.

The breaking block 100 of the contactor 1 according to the invention comprises one or more electric poles. According to the embodiment shown on the Figures 1 and 2 , the contactor has three electrical poles, it is called tripolar contactor. A unitary cut-off unit 80, also commonly called cut-off bulb, is then associated with each electrical pole. The three unitary breaking units 80 are then synchronously controlled by the actuating block 200 acting on actuating devices 34 of the unitary clipping units 80.

According to a particular mode, the cutoff blocks can be controlled synchronously and simultaneously. In other words, all the blocks move at the same time.

According to another particular mode, the cutoff blocks can be controlled in a synchronized and non-simultaneous manner. In other words, all the blocks move through the action of the actuating block but there is a time shift between the movement of each block. This time lag is reproducible and controlled.

As represented on the figures 12 and 15 , the unitary cleavage units 80 according to the invention comprise a housing 31 formed of two half-shells 80A. The two half-shells 80A of the housing 31 are preferably made of molded plastic material. Electrical contacts are arranged inside the housing 31. The half-shells 80A are assembled to form a set of substantially parallelepipedal shape developing along a longitudinal reference plane XZ.

According to a particular embodiment, the two half-shells 80A constituting the housing 31 are preferably of identical shape. By way of example, the term "identical shape" means that the two half-shells, preferably made by molding, come from the same imprint. This has the industrial advantage of managing a single part variant and a single investment. The housing 31 then has two main faces 81 arranged parallel to the longitudinal plane XZ. Said housing further comprises two lateral faces 82, an upper face 83 and a lower face 84.

As shown on the figures 16 and 17 , the unitary breaking unit 80 comprises electrical breaking means 30 composed of two fixed contacts 32 respectively connected to an electrical terminal block 500 by connection pads 45. The two fixed contacts 32 respectively comprise an electrical contact zone 37. The electrical breaking means 30 are then positioned in an internal volume of the housing 31, internal volume delimited by the two half-shells 80A.

The electric breaking means 30 further comprise a movable contact 33 in the form of a bridge comprising an elongated body along a longitudinal axis X. According to this embodiment, the movable contact bridge 33 comprises two ends on which are positioned two contact zones 36 each capable of collaborating respectively with a contact zone 37 of a fixed contact 32 in a closed position of the breaking means.

The terms "moving contact" or "mobile contact bridge" will be used interchangeably in the following description.

In this closed position, an elastic means 25, such as in particular a helical spring, ensures between the contact zones 36 and 37, a contact pressure sufficient to ensure the establishment and passage of the current in good conditions . The resilient means 25 is generally referred to as a pole spring. This contact pressure is also provided for the passage of the permanent current without excessive heating, as well as to ensure sufficient electrical durability.

Two opening volumes 35 corresponding to the space in which a contact zone 37 of a fixed contact 32 and a contact zone 36 associated with the moving contact 33 are thus defined, are defined. In addition, each opening volume 35 is associated with an arc extinction chamber. The arc extinguishing chamber opening on the opening volume 35 is delimited by two parallel walls and placed on either side of the longitudinal geometric reference plane XZ, a rear wall remote from the opening volume. 35, a bottom wall and an upper wall.

According to an embodiment of the arc extinction chamber, said chamber may comprise a stack of at least two metal plates 40 planar and perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric reference plane XZ. These metal plates, called fins, are intended for the deionization of the arc. The metal plates 40 are preferably made of ferromagnetic material. Said fins tend to exert on the arc a ferromagnetic attraction force. Said fins are of substantially rectangular shape and comprise a longitudinal axis and a median axis.

According to another particular embodiment of the arc extinction chamber as shown in FIG. figure 18 said chamber is delimited by two flanges 68 of ferromagnetic material. The two lateral flanges 68 are parallel and placed on either side of a median longitudinal plane XZ. The two lateral flanges 68 are arranged to frame one of the ends of the movable bridge 33 over its entire displacement between the open position and the closed position. In other words, the two side flanges 68 are spaced from each other to allow the displacement of the movable contact bridge 33. The inner walls of said flanges 68 comprises a layer of insulating material. The positioning of the layers of insulating material on the flanges 68 makes it possible to prevent the arc from catching on the inner walls of said flanges 68. These layers are preferably made of gas-generating material.

The extinguishing chamber is also delimited by a rear wall 72 placed perpendicular to the XZ plane. Said posterior wall is remote from the opening volume 35 to be positioned opposite an opening volume of the contact zones 36, 37. The rear wall 72 connects the two lateral flanges 68 so as to form a metal assembly substantially U-shaped. The rear wall 72 connects the two flanges on part of their height.

Preferably, the two lateral flanges 68 extend in a direction parallel to the median longitudinal plane XZ so as to completely enclose the contact zone 36 of the movable contact bridge 33. More precisely, the two lateral flanges 68 extend further enclose the contact zone 36 of the movable contact bridge 33 to the inside of the arc extinction chamber 24. In other words, the development of the flanges in length makes it possible to close each opening volume 35 laterally so as to channel the exhaust of ionized particles at the moment of opening of the electrical contacts.

The wall of each arc extinguishing chamber 24 may comprise a metal upper baffle 69. As shown in FIG. figure 18 said baffle electrically connects a fixed contact 32 to a rear wall 72 to form an upper portion of the metal wall of said quench chamber.

According to an alternative embodiment, the movable contact bridge 33 comprises arc horns 39 at each of the two ends. Said arc horns extend beyond the contact zones towards the rear walls 72 of the arc extinguishing chambers. As an exemplary embodiment, the arc horns 39 are inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the movable contact bridge 33.

The casing 31 of the unitary cut-off block 80 is intended to be positioned in a base 110 of the cut-off block 100 of the contactor 1. The base 110 has an internal face having a first cavity 120 in which unitary breaking units are positioned. 80. The lower face 84 of the housing 31 then comes to be positioned vis-a-vis in the first cavity 120 of the base 110. The main faces 81 are contiguous to the partition walls 111 of the base 110. The partition walls 111 positioned on the outer edges of the base 110 thus form walls of the modular electrical switching device 1.

The base 110 comprises a first cavity 120 having at least three compartments intended to collaborate respectively with a unitary cutoff unit 80. Each unitary cutoff unit 80 cooperates with the base 110 to produce at least one exhaust gas outlet channel allowing a cut without noise or ionized gases outside the base.

According to a particular embodiment of the unitary cutoff blocks as represented on the Figures 11 to 13 , the two half-shells according to the invention are intended to collaborate with a compartment of the first cavity 120 of a base 110 of a modular electrical switching device 1 in order to define two channels for evacuation of the cutoff gases. Each evacuation channel is then connected to an internal volume of the housing 31 by an opening 86 made in a half-shell 80A. The half-shells respectively comprise a rib 85 intended to collaborate with a compartment of the first cavity 120 of a base 110 of a modular electrical switching device 1 in order to delimit the discharge gas channels.

According to a first variant embodiment as represented on the Figures 11 to 13 , the ribs 85 of the two half-shells 80A assembled form at a contact plane a lower rib 805 on the lower face 84 of the housing 31. The lower rib 805 develops in a direction parallel to the longitudinal plane XZ. Said rib is intended to collaborate with the first imprint 120 of a base 110 of a modular electrical switching device 1 in order to delimit two discharge gas discharge channels, each channel being connected to an internal volume of the housing by a opening 86 made in a half-shell 80A. Indeed, the housing 31 of the unitary block of cutoff 80 is intended to be positioned in a base 110 of a modular electrical switching device 1. The lower face 84 of the housing 31 then comes to position itself vis-à-vis a first cavity 120 of the base 110. More particularly, the lower rib 805 has on the lower face 84 of the housing 31 delimits with the cavity 120 two discharge channels cutoff gases. Each channel is connected to an internal volume of the housing by an opening 86 made in a half-shell 80A. In a particular embodiment, the openings 86 preferably pass through the lower face 84 of the housing 31. More specifically, each half-shell 80A comprises respectively an opening 86 opening. In order to effectively reduce the external manifestations of the cutoff gases, a filter block pierced with holes is placed in each discharge channel. As an exemplary embodiment, a gate 87 is placed at each of the openings 86 of the housing 31. The lower rib 805 is preferably protruding relative to the lower face 84. According to this particular embodiment, each compartment of the first footprint 120 of the base 110 comprises a hollow rib 121. The lower rib 805 protruding from the housing 31 is then arranged to be placed in the hollow portion of the first footprint 120 of the base 110 at the time of positioning of the cutoff block 80 in the modular electrical switching device 1 to delimit two separate discharge channels. The lower rib 805 comprises sections of concave and / or convex shape. Thus, the lower face 84 of the unitary cleavage units 80 has a shape for modulating the section of the gas evacuation channel along this channel so as to alternate zones of relaxation and compression. This alternation of relaxation zones and compression zones makes it possible to reduce the amount of manifestation at the outlet of the channel. Each compartment of the first cavity 120 is hollow so that the channels for evacuating the cutoff gases comprise walls formed by a portion lower face 84 of a unitary cutoff unit 80 and a part of the base 110 of the modular electrical switching device. Each compartment of the first cavity 120 has on one face intended to be placed opposite the lower face 84 of the housing 31 of the unitary cutoff unit 80. Said face comprises a hollow zone 121 in which the lower rib 805 projecting said case is intended to be placed to delimit two separate discharge channels. In addition, each compartment of the first cavity 120 of the base 110 has a wall in which two holes 122 for evacuation of gases are arranged. Each hole 122 is connected to one of the evacuation channels.

According to a second variant of embodiment as represented on the Figures 14 and 15 , the two half-shells respectively comprise a rib 85 on their main face 81. The ribs 85 are preferably recessed relative to the main faces 81. The housing 31 comprises two ribs 85 developing in a direction parallel to the longitudinal plane XZ. Said ribs are intended to collaborate with a first imprint 120 of a base 110 of a modular electrical switching device 1. Each channel is connected to an internal volume of the housing by an opening 86 made in a half-shell 80A. In a particular embodiment, the openings 86 preferably pass through the lower face 84 of the housing 31. More specifically, each half-shell 80A comprises respectively an opening 86 opening.

The base 110 further comprises an outer face intended to collaborate with a chassis or a DIN rail type of fixing rail.

According to one embodiment, the outer face comprises a second cavity 130 having an internal volume delimited by a wall. Said second cavity 130 is thus positioned between the external face of said base 110 and the first cavity 120 intended for the positioning of a cutoff block 80.

According to a development mode of the invention, the second cavity 130 comprises first openings opening respectively in main walls of the modular contactor 1 and second connection openings 132 opening near the connection pads 45 of the modular contactor 1.

As an exemplary embodiment, the first openings of the second cavity 130 are preferably made in a breakable wall of the base 110. Depending on the use of the modular electrical switching device, the breakable portion is removed or not not withdrawn. As represented on Figures 1 and 2 , according to a first mode of embodiment, the breakable parts have not been removed. As represented on Figures 21 and 22 , the breakable parts of the bases 110 have been removed on the two main faces of the switching device to leave a passage for electrical conductors 301.

The first and second openings allow the passage of electrical conductors 301 connecting at least one electrical pole of a first modular switch 1 to an electrical pole of a second modular switch 2 placed against the first.

According to an embodiment shown on the Figures 21 to 25 , the internal volume of the second cavity 130 is substantially of parallelepipedal shape and has an open face on the external face of the modular contactor 1, 2.

According to a first particular embodiment as represented on the Figures 21 to 27 the second cavity 130 comprises at least one channel having an edge comprising at least one connection opening 132 opening at a connection pad 45 of a unitary breaking block 80. Said at least one channel extends according to a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal plane XZ and completely through the base 110 to open on either side of said base. As an exemplary embodiment, said at least one channel comprises a substantially parallelepipedal volume having two substantially parallel edges.

Preferably, the second cavity 130 comprises two substantially identical channels and arranged parallel to one another. The channels have a parallelepipedic shape respectively. The internal volumes of each channel then comprise first openings opening respectively into the main walls of the modular contactor 1, 2 and the second connection openings 132 opening near the connection areas 45 of the modular contactor 1, 2. In addition, the two channels are separated by a partition. Said partition is intended to separate the upstream from the downstream. Said partition may be intended to collaborate with a DIN rail type of fixing rail. Thus, when the second cavity 130 comprises two channels, only one of the two edges of each channel comprises the connection openings 132. The second connection openings 132 of a first channel open in the vicinity of the upstream connection areas of the modular contactor 1. 2 and the second connection openings 132 of a second channel 130 open near the upstream connection areas of the modular contactor 1, 2.

When the second imprint 130 comprises a single parallelepiped-shaped channel, the connection openings 132 are arranged in the two parallel edges of the channel, each edge respectively comprising the connection openings capable of being traversed by one of the reversal bars of the inversion bar set.

According to a second particular embodiment not shown, the second cavity 130 has two slots respectively cut into the lateral faces of the base 110. These slots open respectively at the connection pads 45 of the unitary breaking units 80. Each slot is intended to receive a complete set of inversion bar 300 having one or more inverting bars 301.

As shown on the figure 1 , the modular electrical switching device 1 may further comprise one or more fault detection devices including thermal. The detection devices are connected to the actuator block 200 to control the opening of the electrical contacts via the actuator. According to one embodiment of the invention as represented on the figure 1 , the modular electrical switching device 1 comprises a removable thermal protection module 400.

As shown on Figures 1 and 2 , a removable thermal protection module 400 according to the invention comprises a housing in which one or more annular-shaped current sensors are positioned. Said sensors are intended to be positioned around the connection pads 45 of the unitary breaking units 85 of the breaking block 100. The current sensors may be of the Rowgoski type. According to a particular embodiment represented on the Figures 1 and 2 , the removable thermal protection module 400 is adapted to a three-pole modular contactor and thus comprises three openings 401 allowing its positioning by interlocking on the connection pads 45 of the three unipolar breaking blocks 85. As shown in FIG. figure 2 , the removable thermal protection module 400 has the distinction of being integrated in the modular contactor 1 so as to be interposed between the breaking block 100 and the connection terminal blocks 500.

The removable thermal protection module 400 according to the invention has the particularity of not having own power supply means. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the removable thermal protection module 400 comprises communication and power supply means 402 intended to automatically connect with the removable electrical control module 250 of the actuating block 200. these means of connection Communication and power supply 402 are able both to supply the removable thermal protection module 400 and to transmit the measurements made by the current sensors. According to this embodiment of the invention, the positioning of the removable electric control module 250 on the housing of the actuating block 200 allows the connection and the automatic power supply between the current sensors of the removable thermal protection module 400 and the removable electrical control module 250.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the quick fixing means of the actuating block 200 with cut-off block 100 comprise a first part integral with the movable armature 202 of the actuating block 200 and a second part integral with the cutoff block 100.

The quick fastening means comprise at least one coupling hook 214 for fixing and holding the breaking block 100 to the actuating block 200.

Said coupling hitch 214 is integral with the mobile armature 202 of the electromagnetic actuator and is able to collaborate with an actuating device 34 of the movable contact 33 of the breaking block 100 to transmit the movement of the mobile armature 202. at the mobile contact 33.

Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling hook 214 is intended both to fix the actuating block 200 with the cutoff block 100 and to transmit the movement of the mobile armature 202 of the electromagnetic actuator to the movable contact bridge 33 of a unitary breaking block 80 of the breaking block 100.

The actuating device 34 of the movable contact 33 comprises a movable contact holder 38 integral with the movable contact 33. Said movable contact holder 38 is connected to an attachment head 51. According to one embodiment of the invention, the movable contact 33 is preferably slidably mounted on the movable contact carrier 38.

Unlike known solutions, the movable contact holder 38 is an integral part of the unitary breaking unit 80 and does not form part of the moving part of the electromagnetic actuator of the actuating block 200. Each unitary cut-off unit then comprises respectively a door movable contact 38 secured to the movable contact 33. As shown in FIG. figure 2 , the breaking block 100 of the modular contactor 1 according to the invention comprises three unitary breaking units 80 having respectively a movable contact holder 38. Each unitary block of cutoff then has a functioning autonomous compared to other unit blocks.

According to one embodiment, the coupling hook 214 comprises an inner surface having a first and a second edge respectively comprising bearing surfaces capable of transmitting the movements of the mobile armature 202 to the moving contact from a closed position towards an open position and vice versa.

The coupling hook 214 preferably has a C-shaped profile having two substantially parallel edges.

A first edge of the coupling hook 214 comprises a slot which is intended to receive the attachment head 51 integral with the contact holder 38. The first edge comprises a bearing surface intended to transmit the movement of the mobile armature 202 to the movable contact holder 38 of the movable contact 33 in a first direction of movement, in particular from the closed position of the movable armature 202 towards its open position. A second edge comprises a bearing surface intended to transmit the movement of the mobile armature 202 to the movable contact holder 38 of the movable contact 33 in a second direction of movement, in particular from the open position of the movable armature 202 towards its position closed.

According to a development mode of the invention, the attachment means 210 comprise a tray 211 intended to be fixed to the movable armature 202. According to a particular embodiment, the tray 211 comprises a countersink on a first face. Part of the mobile armature 202 is intended to be positioned by recess in said counterbore. Fastening means 210 comprise retaining keys 212 removable through the walls of the counterbore and a portion of the movable armature 202. As an exemplary embodiment, the shape of the countersink of the tray 211 is substantially rectangular to receive the transverse reinforcement solidarisant the external branches of the U-shaped mobile armature of the mobile armature 202. Said transverse armature comprises through holes allowing the passage of the retaining keys 212 removable during attachment of the mobile armature 202 with the tray 211.

According to a particular embodiment, the tray 211 comprises three hitching hooks 214 intended respectively to collaborate with a fastening head 51 of a movable contact holder 38 secured to a movable contact 33 of a unitary cut-off block 80. In particular embodiment of the invention, three unitary breaking units 80 are then synchronously controlled by the actuating block 200 acting on the unitary breaking units. As stated above, the blocks Cutoff units 80 can be controlled synchronously and simultaneously or in a synchronized and non-simultaneous manner. Each unit block 80 is connected to the actuating block 200 and is controlled at the opening of the contacts 32, 33 by moving in translation the movable contact bridge 33 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The movable bridge contact 33 moves between an open position and a closed position of the electrical contacts.

Unlike the solutions of the state of the art, the coordination at the opening of the different unitary breaking units 80 is carried out directly by the actuating block 200 and not by additional means such as in particular by connecting control axes unit blocks of cutoff. Thus, thanks to the solution of the invention, when the actuating block 200 is unhooked from the fixing block 100, each unitary block of cutoff 80 can be directly removed from the base 110 of the fixing block 100. This withdrawal can be realized from independently from that of the other unitary cleavage units 80.

The modular contactor 1 according to the invention then comprises quick fixing means 210 allowing the attachment of the actuating block 200 to the breaking block 100 removably.

According to a preferred embodiment, the towing hook 214 comprises means of catching play capable of eliminating the clearances necessary for mounting the actuating block 200 on the break block 100. These means of catching games thus guarantee the respect for a reduced quotation chain.

The game-catching means comprise an elastic blade 213 substantially positioned parallel to the second edge of the coupling hook 214. Said elastic blade 213 behaves like a blade damper by deforming in the Z direction as soon as it enters into position. contact with the attachment head 51 connected to a movable contact holder 38 secured to a movable contact 33. In other words, the clearance is made in such a way that it avoids relative movements of the different parts during the electrical or mechanical maneuvers of the modular contactor. The game-catching means thus make it possible to reach high levels of mechanical durability. According to an alternative embodiment not shown, a single resilient blade play catch could be used and then be common to the three unit blocks cutoff.

According to an embodiment as shown in the Figure 5A , the elastic blade 213 is positioned in a housing of the tray 211. The elastic blade 213 is preferably metal and is made by folding. Said blade has locating lugs intended to be placed inside the tray 211 in order to limit any movement of said blade.

The elastic blade 213 has a dual function. It allows on the one hand a recovery of the clearance between tray 211 and attachment head 51 and on the other hand a recovery of clearance between tray 211 and the movable armature 202 of the electromagnetic actuator. The wave shape of the elastic blade 213 has the effect of locating fastening head 51 in the axis of the moving assembly 220 and to allow a snap-in sensation or hard point to the installer validating the proper assembly of the two parts one on the other.

According to one embodiment of the invention, as represented on the figures 4 , 5 and 6 each movable bridge 33 of a unitary cutoff unit 80 comprises a coupling head 51 intended to be connected to a coupling hook 214 of a tray 211 of a movable armature 202 of the electromagnetic actuator. The attachment head 51 has support surfaces intended to collaborate with the bearing surfaces of the two edges of the coupling hook 214 in a C-shape. According to one particular embodiment, the attachment head is positioned between the two edges of the coupling hook 214. The attachment head 51 is connected to the movable contact holder 38 via a transmission axis 52. The transmission axis 52 then comes to be positioned inside the the slot of the first edge of the tow hook 214.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the position of the attachment head 51 is adjustable in the direction of movement of the movable contact bridge 33, in other words in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. This setting allows to optimize the contact crushing stroke between the electrical contact zones 37 of the two fixed contacts 32 and the contact zones 36 of the movable contact bridge 33.

The movable contact bridge 33 of each unitary breaking block 80 moves between an open position and a closed position of the electrical contacts. The purpose is to ensure that for a given displacement stroke, the electrical contacts are in the closed position. The displacement stroke is fixed by the electromagnetic actuator of the actuating block 200.

According to the manufacturing tolerances of a unitary breaking unit 80, the distance separating the movable contact bridge 33 from the fixed contacts 32 in the open position contacts may vary from one unitary block 80 to the other.

Thus for the same displacement travel of the actuator of the actuating block 200, the final positions of the movable contact bridges 33 may be different. For a multipolar contactor having a single actuator simultaneously controlling several movable breaking bridges 33, it is possible that all movable breaking bridges have not reached the same closed position. In other words, for example, a movable breaking bridge 33 of a unitary cutoff unit 80 may not be totally in a closed position while the other movable bridges 33 of the other unitary clipping units are already in a closed position. closing position.

An adjustment of the crushing stroke of the contacts consists in ensuring the holding of a mechanical dimension between the attachment head 51 and the housing 31 of the unitary cutoff unit 80 in the closed position of the contacts. More precisely, the adjustment of the crushing stroke of the contacts consists in guaranteeing the holding of a dimension between the bearing surfaces of the fastening head 51 and a reference surface of the casing 31 of the unitary cut-off block 80. This dimension will be reproduced for all the unitary breaking blocks of the same modular contactor 1 according to the invention.

The adjustment of the crushing stroke is achieved thanks to the transmission axis 52 connecting the attachment head 51 to the movable contact holder 38. According to one embodiment of the invention, said transmission axis 52 is of variable length.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention the transmission axis 52 has a first end attached to the attachment head 51 and a second end having a thread. The threading is intended to collaborate with a tapping made in the movable contact holder 38 secured to the movable contact bridge 33. By more or less screwing the transmission axis 52 in the movable contact holder 38, the attachment head 51 moves by relative to the case 31 of the unitary cut-off block 80.

As an exemplary embodiment of the attachment head 51, the latter comprises a fingerprint intended to collaborate with an adjustment tool (not shown). The adjustment tool is intended to be handled by a user wishing to adjust the length of the transmission axis 52. As shown in FIG. figures 2 and 10A , the attachment head may comprise for example a CHc type profile. As represented on the figure 16 , the attachment head may comprise for example a profile of hexagonal shape.

The method for adjusting the crushing stroke of the electrical contacts of a block Cutting unit 80 consists in placing the movable contact holder 38 in a closed position of the electrical contacts 32, 33. The crushing stroke of the contacts can also be called the wear guard. This operation is generally carried out manually before mounting the box 31 of the unitary cut-off block 80 on the base 111 of the cut-off block 110. The next step consists in positioning an adjusting jig 600 between the outer surface of the box 31 and a surface 51. If the distance between the housing and the attachment head 51 is less than the thickness of the adjustment jig 600 and does not allow the positioning of said jig, the transmission axis 52 is then lengthened in particular by unscrewing it relative to the case 31. Conversely, if the distance between the case 31 and the attachment head 51 is greater than the thickness of the adjusting template 600, the transmission axis 52 is then shortened in particular by screwing relative to the housing 31. The adjustment of the length of the transmission shaft 52 being realized, the adjustment template 600 can be removed.

According to a particular embodiment of the adjustment method, as represented on the Figures 6A and 6B the first step consists in maximizing the length of the transmission axis 52, in particular by unscrewing it as much as possible. The second stage as represented on the Figures 7A and 7B , consists in positioning the adjusting jig 600 between a bearing surface of the attachment head 51 and a reference surface of the case 31 of the unitary cut-off block 80. In a third step, the movable contact holder 38 is then brought in a closed position of the electrical contacts 32, 33 by screwing the transmission axis 52. As shown in FIGS. Figures 8A and 8B , the attachment head 51 ends up being supported on the adjusting jig 600 and the movable contact holder 38 is the closed position. In a last step represented on the Figures 9A and 9B , the adjusting jig 600 is removed and the movable contact holder 38 is positioned in an open position of the contacts 32, 33.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the presence of a transmission axis 52 of variable length on each unitary cutoff unit 80 also makes it possible to create a time shift or a synchronization in the opening of the movable contacts 33 of the unitary blocks. 80 of the same modular switching device according to the invention.

This time shift in the opening of the electrical poles of a modular switching device makes it possible in particular to reduce the wear of the contacts when opening a three-phase product, by deliberately advancing the opening of a pole with respect to the two other.

Indeed, in three-phase cut you always have an electrical pole that cuts before and the other two. The other two poles then cut a network that became single-phase after the first cut. The offset ensures the three-phase cut always on the same pole that can then be synchronized with respect to zero current. The opening of the other two poles is shifted so as to minimize the arc duration on these two poles.

This time shift in the opening of the electrical poles of a modular switching device also makes it possible to guarantee, for certain four-phase applications, an advance or a delay of the opening of the neutral with respect to the phases.

According to another embodiment of the adjustment method, this operation can be performed simultaneously for all the unitary clipping units 80 positioned in a unitary base, bipolar, three-pole or four-pole. A template associated with the number of poles present is then used. In this same embodiment, a time shift of the opening of one or more poles can easily be achieved by a template incorporating the shift of the pole to undergo the advance or the delay of closure.

Thus, thanks to the quick fastening means, the assembly and / or disassembly of the cutoff block 100 with actuating block 200 can be easily achieved which facilitates for example maintenance operations including the cutoff block.

In addition, the positioning references of the actuating block 200 with respect to the predetermined cutoff unit blocks of the cut-off block 100 make it possible to guarantee a very low tolerance of the contact wear guard, even if the blocks are changed. units during the maintenance intervention. The wear guard of the contacts is also called contact crush. This then has the effect of ensuring a low tolerance on electrical endurance despite the manufacturing tolerances of any industrial product, and simultaneously to allow a gain of contact material (silver-based) and a lower consumption of the actuator.

As shown on the figure 2 , the modular contactor 1 according to the invention comprises connection terminal blocks 500 intended to be connected to the connection terminals 45 of the breaking block.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention as represented on the Figures 28A to 30B , the electrical switching device 1 comprises additional blocks of removable auxiliary contacts 700. These blocks have the particularity of being removable.

The removable auxiliary contact blocks 700 comprise a mobile contact support SCM which is controlled at the opening or by the operating axis 216 of the moving assembly 220 through the tray 211 moving in a translation movement or by the multifunction lever 205 moving in a rotational movement.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B, the removable auxiliary contact blocks 700 are controlled by a translational movement of the moving element 202 to indicate the open or closed state NO / NC of the electrical switching device. 1. Said additive block is mounted vertically with respect to the installation position.

According to an exemplary embodiment as shown in Figs 29A and 29B, the removable auxiliary contact blocks 700 are controlled by a rotational movement of the multi-function lever 205. The additive blocks are mounted frontally with respect to the installation position. .

According to an embodiment variant as represented on the Figures 30A and 30B , the multi-function lever 205 may offer the possibility, via a particular flag-like shape, of indicating the opening state of the electrical switching device 1. This mechanical visualization of the position of the electrical switching device 1 is possible thanks to an angular displacement of the lever 205 comprising a flag 208.

As shown on Figures 21 and 22 the invention relates to a switching assembly 1000 comprising two modular contactors 1, 2 as defined above. Said modular contactors 1, 2 of the switching assembly 1000 are placed side by side so as to be contiguous with one of their main faces. In addition, the two modular contactors 1, 2 are electrically connected. The switching assembly 1000 comprises electrical conductors 301 respectively positioned inside the second cavities 130 of the two bases 110 of the two modular contactors 1, 2. The electrical conductors 301 connecting the electrical poles of the first modular contactor 1 to the electrical poles of the second modular contactor 2 comprise 301 rigid or semi rigid conductors.

According to a particular embodiment of the connection assembly, the internal volume of the second cavity 130 is intended to receive sets of inversion bars 300 adapted to connect two modular contactors 1, 2 in an inverter mode as shown in the Figures 21 and 22 . As shown on the figure 22 the two contactors 1, 2 connected by the inversion busbar 300 are three-pole contactors. The busbar 300 then comprises six inverting bars 301 respectively connecting two connection pads 45 of two contactors. As shown on the Figures 21 to 27 , the electrical conductors 301 of the switching assembly 1000 are arranged in two groups 300 respectively comprising three inversion bars 301. Advantageously, the electrical conductors 301 of the same group 300 are held together by a clamp 302.

Each connection opening 132 of a second cavity 130 opening at a connection pad 45 of a unitary cut-off unit 80 is then traversed by one of the inversion bars 301 of the inversion bar set 300. Thus, each connection opening 132 allows the passage and positioning of an inversion bar next to a connection pad 45 so that the electrical contact between the pad and the bar can take place. According to this first particular embodiment, as represented on the Figures 23 to 25 , the introduction of the reversal bars 301 of the reversing bar set 300 is done by the outer face of the base 110. After sliding the ends of the inverting bars 301 in the connection openings 132, the set of 300 bar undergoes a slight rotation to be positioned inside the second footprint 130.

According to a second particular embodiment not shown, the introduction of inversion bars 301 of the inversion bar set 300 is done directly by the lateral face of the base 110. The inversion busbar 300 is positioned in the slot of the second impression 130 by sliding in the latter. The ends of the inverting bars 301 are then directly attached to the connection pads 45.

This 3-pole inverter mode is particularly suitable for controlling electric motors. According to one embodiment of the invention, an upstream connection pad 45 of the first electrical pole of the first modular switch 1 is connected to an upstream connection pad 45 of the first electrical pole of the second modular switch 2. In addition, a connection pad downstream 45 of the first electrical pole of the first modular contactor 1 is connected a downstream connection pad 45 of the third electrical pole of the second modular switch 2. An upstream connection pad 45 of the second electrical pole of the first modular switch 1 is connected to a connection pad upstream 45 of the second electrical pole of the second contactor Modular 2. A downstream connection zone 45 of the second electrical pole of the first modular contactor 1 is connected to a downstream connection pad 45 of the second electrical pole of the second modular switch 2. An upstream connection pad 45 of the third electrical pole of the first modular switch 1 is connected the upstream connection area 45 of the third electrical pole of the second modular contactor 2. Finally, a downstream connection area 45 of the third electrical pole of the first modular contactor 1 is connected to the downstream connection area 45 of the first electrical pole of the second modular contactor 2.

In addition, this mode can be applied to four-pole contactors (not shown) for reversing electric power sources.

Thus, according to the mode of connection in the inverter mode of two modular contactors according to the invention, the two busbars 300 are placed inside the contactors. This innovative configuration makes it possible not to increase the total volume of the electrical installation. This presents an important advantage over the solutions of the state of the art where the installation of the bar sets on the outside ( figure 19 ) causes problems when wiring the contactors in the control cabinets. Indeed, the place inside these electrical cabinets is always limited.

In addition, this configuration of the inverter busbars inside the modular contactors 1, 2 according to the invention also makes it possible to integrate a removable measuring and thermal protection module 400 with one of the two modular contactors 1, 2 as shown on the Figures 21 and 22 .

This integration of a removable thermal protection module 400 on one of the two contactors 1, 2 is impossible with known wiring as shown in FIG. figure 19 . Indeed, if a user tries to transform the wiring of two contactors placed in an inverter type mode as represented on the figure 19 by integrating the thermal protection (thermal relay) on one of the two contactors then, as represented on the figure 20 a non-functional wiring is obtained. Indeed, according to this unsatisfactory embodiment, when the motor is powered by the contactor number 2, the thermal relay is no longer on the current passage and therefore can not indicate the thermal state of the engine.

As shown on Figures 21 and 22 one of the modular contactors 2 of the switching assembly 1000 does not comprise a removable thermal protection module 400. Said modular contactor 2 comprises an actuating block 200 associated with a break block 100 not equipped with a removable thermal protection module 400.

The invention is particularly intended for multipole switchgear devices of the electronically controlled contactor or choke type. The simplified modular structure architecture of these devices makes it possible to accept one or more cutoff blocks, as well as removable thermal protection in the volume of the device. This architecture allows easy and differentiated maintenance of the various modular elements, whether electrical, electronic or electromechanical.

Claims (9)

1. Modular electrical switching device (1, 2) comprising a switching block (100) associated with an actuation block (200),

   - the switching block (100) comprising, in a first cavity (120) of a base (110), at least unitary switching blocks (80) having electrical switching means (30) controlled by the actuation block (200);

   - the actuation block (200) comprising an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the electrical switching means (30);

   the base (110) of the switching block (100) comprising at least one second cavity (130) having an internal volume delimited by a wall, said second cavity (130) being positioned between an outer face of said base (110) and the first cavity (120); the second cavity (130) comprising:

   - first openings emerging respectively in main walls of the modular electrical switching device (1, 2);

   characterized in that the second cavity comprises:

   - second connection openings (132) emerging in proximity to the connection lands (45) of the modular electrical switching device (1,2);

   the first and second openings allowing the passage of electrical conductors (301) linking at least one electrical pole of a first modular electrical switching device (1) to an electrical pole of a second modular electrical switching device (2) placed against the first.
2. Modular electrical switching device (1, 2) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the internal volume of the second cavity (130) is substantially of parallelepipedal form and has an open face on the outer face of the modular contactor (1, 2).
3. Modular electrical switching device (1, 2) according to Claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the second cavity (130) of the base (110) of the switching block (100) comprises two channels arranged relative to one another in a substantially parallel manner, the internal volumes of each channel comprising

   - first openings emerging respectively in the main walls of the modular electrical switching device (1, 2);

   - second openings emerging in proximity to the connection lands of the modular electrical switching device (1,2);

   the first and second openings allowing the passage of electrical conductors (301) linking at least one electrical pole of a first modular electrical switching device (1) to an electrical pole of a second modular electrical switching device (2) placed against the first.
4. Modular electrical switching device (1, 2) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the second openings of the first channel emerge in proximity to the upstream connection lands (45) of the modular electrical switching device (1, 2) and the second openings of the second channel emerge in proximity to the downstream connection lands (45) of said modular electrical switching device (1, 2).
5. Switching assembly comprising a first and a second modular electrical switching device (1, 2) according to one of the preceding claims, said devices placed side-by-side being electrically connected, characterized in that it comprises electrical conductors (301) positioned respectively in second cavities (130) of the two bases (110) of the two modular contactors (1, 2).
6. Switching assembly according to the preceding claim, characterized in that:

   - an upstream connection land (45) of a first electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to an upstream connection land (45) of the first electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2);

   - a downstream connection land (45) of the first electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to a downstream connection land (45) of the third electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2);

   - an upstream connection land (45) of the second electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to an upstream connection land (45) of the second electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2);

   - a downstream connection land (45) of the second electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to a downstream connection land (45) of the second electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2);

   - an upstream connection land (45) of the third electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to the upstream connection land (45) of the third electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2);

   - a downstream connection land (45) of the third electrical pole of the first modular electrical switching device (1) is linked to the downstream connection land (45) of the first electrical pole of the second modular electrical switching device (2).
7. Switching assembly according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the electrical conductors (301) linking the electrical poles of the first modular electrical switching device (1) to the electrical poles of the second modular electrical switching device (2) are rigid or semi-rigid.
8. Switching assembly according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the electrical conductors (301) are arranged in two groups (300) respectively comprising three reversing bars.
9. Switching assembly according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the electrical conductors (301) of one and the same group (300) are kept secured by a clamp (302).

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