GB2574038A - Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit - Google Patents
Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2574038A GB2574038A GB1808517.5A GB201808517A GB2574038A GB 2574038 A GB2574038 A GB 2574038A GB 201808517 A GB201808517 A GB 201808517A GB 2574038 A GB2574038 A GB 2574038A
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- GB
- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- power electronic
- circuit breaker
- switching
- switching mechanism
- electronic switch
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- 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
- H01H9/54—Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switching device and for which no provision exists elsewhere
- H01H9/548—Electromechanical and static switch connected in series
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H33/00—High-tension or heavy-current switches with arc-extinguishing or arc-preventing means
- H01H33/02—Details
- H01H33/59—Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switch and not otherwise provided for, e.g. for ensuring operation of the switch at a predetermined point in the ac cycle
- H01H33/596—Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switch and not otherwise provided for, e.g. for ensuring operation of the switch at a predetermined point in the ac cycle for interrupting dc
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- Protection Of Static Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A two-stage switching mechanism 100 for use in a DC circuit having two coupled elements or devices comprises a circuit breaker 101 and a power electronic switch 102. The circuit breaker and the power electronic switch are connected in series between the two elements or devices. The power electronic switch may be switched off in advance of the circuit breaker when switching off the DC circuit. The circuit breaker may be switched on in advance of the power electronic switch when switching on the DC circuit. The two-stage switching mechanism may further comprise a power electronic converter. The switching of the circuit breaker, the power electronic switch, and the power electronic converter may be controlled by a controller 110, and/or may be done manually. A switching signal may be sent to the power electronic switch and power electronic converter either by a manual switch or an external device. The two-stage switching mechanism can be used to address safety concerns in solar photovoltaic power systems or microgrids incorporating solar PV systems and/or batteries, as switching off the power electronic switch before the circuit breaker, and switching on the circuit breaker before the power electronic switch, ensures no arc is generated across the circuit breaker contacts.
Description
Two-Stage Switching Mechanism for Use in a DC Circuit
Technical Field
This specification relates generally to protection of electric power system with a DC (direct current) circuit, particularly solar photovoltaic power system, micro electric power system or microgrid with a DC circuit.
Background
DC switching (both switching on and switching off) may generate an electric arc or DC arc, which could start a fire and be a safety hazard for maintenance personnel, operators and end-users. The DC arc is more arduous than that produced with an AC load because there is no zero-crossing point on direct current. DC arcs are generally difficult to extinguish.
In recent times, there has been growing fire and safety concern for solar photovoltaic power system and microgrid with solar photovoltaic power system and/or batteries, which have a DC bus or DC link or DC network, or in other words, a DC circuit.
DC switching maybe handled manually or automatically through a DC switch or isolator. Manually switching a DC switch imposes safety risk on the operator and which depends on the switching speed. Slow or paused switching action could potentially allow the dangerous arcing of the direct current across the contacts. Dependent upon the failure mode of the switch the DC arcs could cause fire damage or worse still failure of the isolation of the component and possible DC electric shock.
A fault current (such as due to a short circuit) may trigger a DC switch or isolator switching off a DC circuit. It is generally less likely to have dangerous arcing of the DC across the contacts for automatic switching due to rapid operation, normally in the range of a few milli-seconds.
However, for solar photovoltaic power system, it may be necessary to have “frequent” switching of solar photovoltaic modules or strings of solar photovoltaic power system, and which may cause potential DC arcs, and in worst scenario, may cause fire damage. There are number of fire reports caused by DC switching in solar photovoltaic power 35 systems in recent years worldwide.
- 2 Summary
In a first aspect, this specification describes two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit which comprises two elements or devices, the two-stage switching mechanism comprising a circuit breaker and a power electronic switch, which are configured to be in serial connection and couple the two elements or devices in the DC circuit.
The power electronic switch may be configured to be switched off in advance of the circuit breaker when it is required to break or switch off the DC circuit.
The circuit breaker may be configured to be switched on in advance of the power electronic switch when it is required to switch on the DC circuit.
The two-stage switching mechanism may further comprise a control system configured 15 to control the switching operation of the power electronic switch.
The control system maybe configured to control the switching operation of the circuit breaker.
The two-stage switching mechanism may further comprise a power electronic converter.
The control system maybe configured to control the switching operation of the power electronic converter.
The control system maybe configured to control the power conversion of the power electronic converter.
The circuit breaker may be configured to be operated manually.
The power electronic switch may be configured to be operated manually by at least one of sending a switching signal to the power electronic switch through a manual switch, and sending a switching signal to the power electronic switch through an external device.
-3The power electronic converter may be configured to be switched on and off manually by at least one of sending a switching signal to the power electronic converter through a manual switch, and sending a switching signal to the power electronic converter through an external device.
In a second aspect, this specification describes a method of controlling a two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit, the method comprising determining a switching off the two-stage switching mechanism, causing the switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter, and causing the switching off the 10 circuit breaker.
Determining a switching off operation maybe based on at least one of detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism, detected power conversion efficiency of the power electronic converter, detected temperature of the 15 power electronic switch or the power electronic converter, detected temperature of the circuit breaker, detected temperature of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism, and detected requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism.
The method may comprise activating an alarming signal configured to cause the switching off the circuit breaker.
Activating an alarming signal may be based on at least one of detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism, detected fault of the power 25 electronic switch or the power electronic converter, detected fault of the circuit breaker, and detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism.
The method may comprise determining a switching on the two-stage switching mechanism, causing the switching on the circuit breaker, and causing the switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
Determining a switching on operation maybe based on detected requesting signal for switching on the two-stage switching mechanism, and not any related fault detected.
-4The related fault may comprise at least one of detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism, detected fault of the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter, detected fault of the circuit breaker, and detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism.
The method may comprise determining a switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter, and causing the switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
Determining a switching off operation may be based on at least one of detected current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism, and detected requesting signal for switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
The method may comprise determining a switching on the power electronic switch or 15 the power electronic converter, and causing the switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
Determining a switching on operation may be based on at least one of detected requesting signal for switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic 20 converter and not any related fault detected, and not any related fault detected after the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter is switched off for a predefined period.
The two-stage switching mechanism according to the first aspect may further comprise 25 control apparatus configured to perform the method according to the second aspect.
Brief Description of the Drawings
For a more complete understanding of the two-stage switching mechanisms and methods described herein, reference is made now to the accompanying drawings, in 30 which:
Figures 1A to 1D illustrate examples of circuit breakers with different arrangement of contacts or poles;
Figure 2A illustrates an example of two-stage switching mechanism with a circuit breaker and a power electronic switch in serial connection;
Figure 2B illustrates an example of two-stage switching mechanism with a circuit breaker and a power electronic converter in serial connection;
-5Figures 3A and 3B illustrate examples of the two-stage switching mechanism of Figure 2A;
Figures 3C and 3D illustrate examples of the two-stage switching mechanism of Figure 2B;
Figures 4A to 4I illustrate applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms of Figures 3Ato 3D;
Figures 5A to 5F illustrate examples of various control methods that maybe performed by the control system of a two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit.
Detailed Description
In the description and drawings, like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout.
Figures lAto 1D illustrates example of circuit breakers (e.g. “mechanical” switches with 15 contacts or poles), and these circuit breakers may be configured for use in DC circuits.
There are many other circuit breakers with different arrangement of contacts or poles (not shown) for different applications.
A circuit breaker may be configured to be switched on and switched off manually.
Manual switching of a DC circuit breaker may impose safety risk on the operator and fire damage depending very much on the manual switching action. A slow or paused switching action could potentially allow the dangerous arcing of the direct current across the contacts. Dependent upon the failure mode of the circuit breaker the DC arcs could cause fire damage or worse still failure of the isolation of the DC circuit and possible DC electric shock.
To avoid the safety and fire risks, an operator’s action independent switching mechanism, for example, spring assisted switching mechanism or relay-type switching mechanism, may be configured to cause the connection or disconnection of the DC circuit breaker in a few milli-seconds, for example 5 milli-seconds but are not limited as such. The operator’s action independent switching mechanism ensures that there is no direct linkage between the manual handle and the contacts of the circuit breaker. The spring assisted switching mechanism or relay-type switching mechanism causes all the contacts to “SNAP” over thereby causing a very fast break/make action which means that the arcs produced by the constant DC load are normally extinguished within a few milli-seconds. However, the operator’s action independent switching mechanism (e.g.
-6spring assisted switching mechanism or relay-type switching mechanism) does not guarantee the DC arcs are not produced during a switching operation, and the DC arcs may cause fire damage or worse still failure of the isolation of the DC circuit and possible DC electric shock.
A circuit breaker maybe configured to be switched off automatically. For example, a circuit breaker may be configured to be triggered by overcurrent or fault current flowing through the circuit breaker and switched off, but are not limited as such.
A circuit breaker may be configured to be switched on automatically. For example, a relay-type circuit breaker may be configured to be switched on by an external control signal, but are not limited as such.
Automatic switching of a circuit breaker is generally safer than manual switching.
However, neither manual switching with operator’s action independent switching mechanism nor automatic switching guarantees the DC arcs are not produced during a switching operation. Particularly, for solar photovoltaic power system with DC link or distributed battery power station with DC bus or microgrid with DC circuit, it may be necessary to have “frequent” switching operations (e.g. switching on and switching off 20 operations) of the DC link or DC bus or DC circuit, and which may cause potential DC arcs, and in worst scenario, may cause fire damage. There are number of fire reports caused by DC switching in solar photovoltaic power systems in recent years worldwide.
This specification will hereinafter describe a two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit and which may avoid potential DC arcs and therefore avoid the problems and risks as described above.
Figure 2A illustrates a first example of two-stage switching mechanism 100 which may be configured for use in a DC circuit.
As illustrated in Figure 2A, a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprises a circuit breaker 101 and a power electronic switch 102 which are configured to be in serial connection. The circuit breaker 101 maybe, for example, a thermal protection type circuit breaker or a magnetic protection type circuit breaker, but are not limited as such. In general, any suitable type of circuit breaker may be used. The circuit breaker 101 may be configured with different arrangement of contacts or poles, for example
-7those illustrated in Figures 1A to 1D, but are not limited as such. The power electronic switch 102 may be configured with, for example, field effect transistor (FET) switch or insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) switch, but are not limited as such. In general, any suitable type of power electronic switch may be used. It will be appreciated that the 5 serial connection of the circuit breaker ιοί and the power electronic switch 102 may be in any order, and the current (or power) may flow in any direction. For example, the power may flow from the circuit breaker 101 to the power electronic switch 102 or from the power electronic switch 102 to the circuit breaker 101.
As illustrated in Figure 2A, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may further comprise a controller 110 configured to control the switching operation of the power electronic switch 102. In other words, the power electronic switch 102 maybe configured to be switched on and switched off automatically by the controller 110.
As illustrated in Figure 2A, the power electronic switch 102 may be configured to be switched off in advance of the circuit breaker 101 when it is required to break the DC circuit. Accordingly, the circuit breaker 101 maybe configured to be switched on in advance of the power electronic switch 102 when it is required to switch on the DC circuit.
Figure 2B illustrates the second example of two-stage switching mechanism 100 which may be configured for use in a DC circuit.
As illustrated in Figure 2B, a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprises a circuit 25 breaker 101 and a power electronic converter 103 which are configured in serial connection. The circuit breaker 101 may be, for example, a thermal protection type circuit breaker or a magnetic protection type circuit breaker, but are not limited as such. In general, any suitable type of circuit breaker may be used. The circuit breaker 101 may be configured with different arrangement of contacts or poles, for example those illustrated in Figures 1A to 1D, but are not limited as such. The power electronic converter 103 may be configured to form, for example, a DC/DC converter or a DC/AC converter or an AC/DC converter, but are not limited as such. The power electronic converter 103 may be configured with power electronic switches, for example insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) switches, but are not limited as such. It will be appreciated that the serial connection of the circuit breaker 101 and the power electronic converter 103 may be in any order, and the current (or power) may flow in
-8any direction. For example, the power may flow from the circuit breaker 101 to the power electronic converter 103 or from the power electronic converter 103 to the circuit breaker 101.
As illustrated in Figure 2B, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may further comprise a controller 110 configured to control the switching operation of the power electronic converter 103. In other words, the power electronic converter 103 maybe configured to be switched on and switched off automatically by the controller 110.
As illustrated in Figure 2B, the power electronic converter 103 may be configured to be switched off in advance of the circuit breaker 101 when it is required to break the DC circuit. Accordingly, the circuit breaker 101 may be configured to be switched on in advance of the power electronic converter 103 when it is required to switch on the DC circuit.
It will be appreciated that the controller 110 of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 of Figure 2B may be further configured to control the operation of the power electronic converter 103. For example, the power electronic converter 103 may be an inverter of a solar photovoltaic power system and the controller 110 maybe configured 20 to control the operation of the inverter.
Figure 3A illustrates the first type of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 of Figure 2A.
As illustrated in Figure 3A, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may comprise a one-way power electronic switch 1021, which may be configured to allow one-way current (or power) flow and be in serial connection with the circuit breaker 101. It will be appreciated that the serial connection of the circuit breaker 101 and the one-way power electronic switch 1021 maybe in any order.
Figure 3B illustrates the second type of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 of Figure 2A.
As illustrated in Figure 3B, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may comprise a two-way power electronic switch 1022, which may be configured to allow two-way current (or power) flow and be in serial connection with the circuit breaker 101. The
-9two-way power electronic switch 1022 may be configured with, for example, a pair of power electronic switches in parallel with opposite current flows, but are not limited as such. It will be appreciated that the serial connection of the circuit breaker 101 and the two-way power electronic switch 1022 may be in any order.
Figure 3C illustrates the first type of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 of Figure 2B.
As illustrated in Figure 3C, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may comprise a one-way power electronic converter 1031, which may be configured in serial connection with the circuit breaker 101. The one-way power electronic converter 1031 maybe, for example, a DC/DC converter or DC/AC inverter or AC/DC converter, but are not limited as such. It will be appreciated that the serial connection of the circuit breaker 101 and the one-way power electronic converter 1031 may be in any order.
Figure 3D illustrates the second type of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 of Figure 2B.
As illustrated in Figure 3D, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may comprise a two-way power electronic converter 1032, which may be configured in serial connection with the circuit breaker 101. The two-way power electronic converter 1032 maybe, for example, a bidirectional DC/DC battery charger or a bidirectional DC/AC converter, but are not limited as such. It will be appreciated that the serial connection of the circuit breaker 101 and the two-way power electronic converter 1032 may be in any order.
As illustrated in Figures 3A to 3D, the controller 110 of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may be further configured to control breaking (e.g. switching off) and making (e.g. switching on) the circuit breaker 101.
Each one of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figures 3A to 3D may be configured to connect two elements or devices in a DC circuit. Examples of the elements and devices and applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 are illustrated in Figures 4A to 4I.
- 10 Figures 4A to 4I illustrates, for example, several applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figures 3A to 3D in DC circuits, but are not limited as such.
Figures 4A and 4B illustrate applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figures 3A and 3C for use in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with embedded solar photovoltaic power system.
As illustrated in Figure 4A, a string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 may be configured to connect to a DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a 10 circuit breaker 101 and a one-way power electronic switch 1021 which are configured in serial connection. It will be appreciated that only one-way current (or power) flow is allowed for a string of solar photovoltaic modules 11, and the one-way power electronic switch 1021 may be configured to restrict reverse power flow from the DC bus 20 to the string of solar photovoltaic modules 11.
As illustrated in Figure 4A, a string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 may be configured to connect to a DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and an MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controlled DC/DC converter 1031. It will be appreciated that the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 is a one20 way power electronic converter which may be configured to restrict reverse power flow from the DC bus 20 to the string of solar photovoltaic modules 11.
As illustrated in Figures 4A, when it is essential to isolate the string of solar photovoltaic modules 11, for example for maintenance or repair of the string of solar 25 photovoltaic modules 11 but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031. Once the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 is switched off, the circuit breaker 101 maybe switched off safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off manually or automatically 30 depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101. When the string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 is ready for reconnection to the DC bus 20, the circuit breaker 101 maybe switched on manually or automatically. Once the circuit breaker 101 is switched on, the controller 110 may be configured to switch on the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031.
- 11 As illustrated in Figure 4A, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may be configured to provide protection to the string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 when the DC bus 20 experiences a fault current (e.g. short circuit current). For example, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT 5 DC/DC converter 1031 once a fault current on the DC bus 20 is detected and generate an alarming signal. However, the circuit breaker 101 may not be triggered by the fault current because the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 maybe configured to response the fault current and switch off much faster than the circuit breaker 101. The circuit breaker 101 maybe configured to be switched off 10 automatically, for example by the alarming signal but are not limited as such, or the circuit breaker 101 maybe safely switched off manually when the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 is switched off.
The applications in Figure 4A may further comprise a second circuit breaker 101 15 configured in serial connection with the two-stage switching mechanism 100, as illustrated in Figure 4B, for enhanced protection and safe operation. For example, when it is essential to isolate the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 for repair or replacement, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031. Once the power 20 electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 is switched off, the two circuit breakers 101 maybe switched off safely, and the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 maybe repaired or replaced safely. This arrangement may be of great value for a solar photovoltaic power system with more than one string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 because it requires switching off only 25 the specific string of solar photovoltaic modules 11 and does not have any impact on the operation of the rest of the solar photovoltaic power system.
As illustrated in Figure 4B, it will be appreciated that the power electronic switch 1021 or the MPPT DC/DC converter 1031 is coupled by the two circuit breakers 101.
Figures 4C and 4D illustrate applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figures 3B and 3D in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with embedded battery storage.
As illustrated in Figure 4C, a battery storage 12 may be configured to connect to a DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker
- 12 ιοί and a two-way power electronic switch 1022 which are configured in serial connection. The two-way power electronic switch 1022 may be configured to allow two-way current (or power) flow to enable charging and discharging the battery storage 12. For example, when the voltage on the DC bus 20 is higher than the terminal voltage 5 of the battery storage 12, power flows from the DC bus 20 to the battery storage 12 (e.g. charging the battery storage 12) if the two-way power electronic switch 1022 is switched on. When the voltage on the DC bus 20 is lower than the terminal voltage of the battery storage 12, power flows from the battery storage 12 to the the DC bus 20 (e.g. discharging the battery storage 12) if the two-way power electronic switch 1022 is 10 switched on. It will be appreciated that the switching of the two-way power electronic switch 1022 maybe controlled by the controller 110 to enable “controlled” charging and discharging the battery storage 12.
As illustrated in Figure 4C, a battery storage 12 maybe configured to connect to a DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker
101 and a bidirectional DC/DC converter (e.g. battery charger) 1032. The battery charger 1032 maybe configured to charge and discharge the battery storage 12.
As illustrated in Figure 4C, when it is essential to isolate the battery storage 12, for 20 example for maintenance or replacement of the battery storage 12 but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032. Once the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 is switched off, the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched 25 off manually or automatically depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101. When the battery storage 12 is ready for reconnection to the DC bus 20, the circuit breaker 101 may be switched on manually or automatically. Once the circuit breaker 101 is switched on, the controller 110 may be configured to switch on the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032.
As illustrated in Figure 4C, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may be configured to provide protection to the battery storage 12 when the DC bus 20 experiences a fault current (e.g. short circuit current). For example, the controller 110 maybe configured to switch off the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 once a fault current on the DC bus 20 is detected and generate an alarming signal.
However, the circuit breaker 101 may not be triggered by the fault current because the
-13two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 may be configured to response the fault current and switch off much faster than the circuit breaker 101.
The circuit breaker 101 may be configured to be switched off automatically, for example by the alarming signal but are not limited as such, or the circuit breaker 101 may be 5 safely switched off manually when the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 is switched off.
The applications in Figure 4C may further comprise a second circuit breaker 101 configured in serial connection with the two-stage switching mechanism 100, as 10 illustrated in Figure 4D, for enhanced protection and safe operation. For example, when it is essential to isolate the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 for repair or replacement, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032. Once the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 is switched off, the 15 two circuit breakers 101 may be switched off safely, and the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 may be repaired or replaced safely. This arrangement may be of great value for a solar photovoltaic power system with battery storage 12 because it requires switching off only the battery storage 12 when the twoway power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 is repaired or replaced 20 and may not have major impact on the operation of the rest of the power system.
As illustrated in Figure 3D, it will be appreciated that the two-way power electronic switch 1022 or the battery charger 1032 is coupled by the two circuit breakers 101.
Figure 4E illustrates an application of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figure 3C in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with grid connection through an DC/AC inverter 1031.
As illustrated in Figure 4E, a DC bus 20 may be configured to connect to an AC bus 10 30 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a DC/AC inverter 1031 which are configured in serial connection. The DC/AC inverter 1031 may be configured to allow one-way current (or power) flow from the DC bus 20 to the AC bus 10.
As illustrated in Figure 4E, when it is essential to isolate the AC bus 10 from the DC bus
20, the controller 110 maybe configured to switch off the DC/AC inverter 1031. Once
-14the DC/AC inverter 1031 is switched off, the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off manually or automatically depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101.
As illustrated in Figure 4E, it will be appreciated that an AC circuit breaker 1011 may be configured on the AC bus 10 next to the DC/AC inverter 1031. When it is essential to isolate the DC/AC inverter 1031, for example for repair or replacement but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the DC/AC inverter
1031. Once the DC/AC inverter 1031 is switched off, the DC circuit breaker 101 and 10 the AC circuit breaker 1011 may be switched off safely, and then the DC/AC inverter
1031 may be repaired or replaced safely. This arrangement is of great importance for safe operation of a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid.
Figure 4F illustrates an application of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of
Figure 3D in a microgrid with grid connection through a bidirectional DC/AC converter
1032.
As illustrated in Figure 4F, a DC bus 20 may be configured to connect to an AC bus 10 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a 20 bidirectional DC/AC converter or PCS (power conversion system) 1032 which are configured in serial connection. The bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032 may be configured to allow two-way current (or power) flow between the AC bus 10 and the DC bus 20.
As illustrated in Figure 4F, when it is essential to isolate the AC bus 10 from the DC bus 20, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032. Once the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032 is switched off, the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off manually or automatically depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101.
As illustrated in Figure 4F, it will be appreciated that an AC circuit breaker 1011 may be configured on the AC bus 10 next to the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032. When it is essential to isolate the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032, for example for repair or 35 replacement but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032. Once the bidirectional DC/AC converter
-ι51032 is switched off, the DC circuit breaker 101 and the AC circuit breaker 1011 may be switched off safely, and then the bidirectional DC/AC converter 1032 maybe repaired or replaced safely. This arrangement is of great importance for safe operation of a microgrid.
Figure 4G illustrates an application of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of Figure 3C in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with an electrical vehicle 14 connected to the DC bus 20.
As illustrated in Figure 4G, an electrical vehicle 14 may be configured to connect to a
DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and an EV charger 1031 which are configured in serial connection. The EV charger 1031 may be configured to allow one-way current (or power) flow and draw power form the DC bus 20 and charge the batteries of the electrical vehicle 14. An EV charger connector 1012 may be configured to connect the electrical vehicle 14 to the EV charger 1031.
As illustrated in Figure 4G, while the electrical vehicle 14 is connected to the EV charger 1031 through the EV charger connector 1012 for charging, when it is essential 20 to isolate the EV charger 1031, for example for repair or replacement but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the EV charger 1031. Once the EV charger 1031 is switched off, the EV charger connector 1012 may be removed (e.g. disconnected) from the EV charger 1031 safely and the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely, and then the EV charger 1031 may be repaired or replaced safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off manually or automatically depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101.
Figure 4H illustrates an application of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of
Figure 3D in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with an electrical vehicle 30 14 connected to the DC bus 20.
As illustrated in Figure 4H, an electrical vehicle 14 may be configured to connect to a
DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a smart EV charger 1032 which are configured in serial connection. The smart 35 EV charger 1032 may be configured to allow two-way current (or power) flow and enable charging the batteries of the electrical vehicle 14 (e.g. draw power from the DC
-16bus 20 to charge the batteries of the electrical vehicle 14) and discharging the batteries of the electrical vehicle 14 (e.g. draw power from the batteries of the electrical vehicle 14 and send the power to the DC bus 20). An EV charger connector 1012 maybe configured to connect the electrical vehicle 14 to the smart EV charger 1032.
As illustrated in Figure 4H, while the electrical vehicle 14 is connected to the smart EV charger 1032 through the EV charger connector 1012 for charging or discharging, when it is essential to isolate the smart EV charger 1032, for example for repair or replacement but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch 10 off the smart EV charger 1032. Once the smart EV charger 1032 is switched off, the EV charger connector 1012 may be removed (e.g. disconnected) from the smart EV charger 1032 safely and the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely, and then the smart EV charger 1032 may be repaired or replaced safely.
As illustrated in Figures 4G and 4H, the two-stage switching mechanism 100 may be configured to provide protection to the electrical vehicle 14 when the DC bus 20 experiences a fault current (e.g. short circuit current). For example, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the EV charger 1031 (Figure 3G) or the smart EV charger 1032 (Figure 3H) once a fault current on the DC bus 20 is detected and generate an alarming signal. However, the circuit breaker 101 may not be triggered by the fault current because the EV charger 1031 (Figure 3G) or the smart EV charger 1032 (Figure 3H) maybe configured to response the fault current and switch off much faster than the circuit breaker 101. The circuit breaker 101 maybe configured to be switched off automatically, for example by the alarming signal but are not limited as such, or the circuit breaker 101 may be safely switched off manually when the EV charger 1031 (Figure 3G) or the smart EV charger 1032 (Figure 3H) is switched off.
Figure 4I illustrates an application of the two-stage switching mechanisms 100 of
Figure 3C in a solar photovoltaic power system or microgrid with a DC load 13 30 connected to the DC bus 20.
As illustrated in Figure 4I, a DC load 13 maybe configured to connect to a DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a power electronic converter 1031 which are configured in serial connection. The power 35 electronic converter 1031 may be configured to allow one-way current (or power) flow and draw power form the DC bus 20 to the DC load 13.
-17As illustrated in Figure 4I, when it is essential to isolate the DC load 13 and/or the power electronic converter 1031, for example for repair or replacement but are not limited as such, the controller 110 may be configured to switch off the power electronic 5 converter 1031. Once the power electronic converter 1031 is switched off, the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off safely, and then the DC load 13 and/or the power electronic converter 1031 may be repaired or replaced safely. It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched off manually or automatically depending on the type of the circuit breaker 101.
As illustrated in Figure 4I, it will be appreciated that a DC load 13 may be, for example, a resistor or a DC motor or an AC motor, but are not limited as such.
A resistor may be configured to be powered by a DC power source. A resistor may be configured to serve an electric heater or an immersion heater for heating water or space or other heating purposes. As illustrated in Figure 3I, for example, a resistor 13 may be configured to connect to the DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a DC/DC converter 1031 which are configured in serial connection.
A DC motor may be configured to be powered by a DC power source. As illustrated in Figure 3I, for example, a DC motor 13 may be configured to connect to the DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a DC/DC converter 1031 which are configured in serial connection.
An induction motor (e.g. AC motor) maybe configured to be powered by a DC power source through a DC/AC inverter. As illustrated in Figure 3I, an AC motor 13 maybe configured to connect to the DC bus 20 through a two-stage switching mechanism 100 comprising a circuit breaker 101 and a DC/AC inverter 1031 which are configured in serial connection. It will be appreciated that the DC/AC inverter 1031 may be configured to serve as a frequency inverter.
In general, the two-stage switching mechanisms of Figures 2A and 2B, 3A to 3D, 4A to
4I may comprise control apparatus configured to control the switching operations of 35 the two-stage switching mechanisms.
-18The control apparatus may comprise a central controller configured to control the switching off and/or switching on the power electronic switches or the power electronic converters, to monitor the performance of the system as a whole, and to manage the operation of the system as a whole. For example, the central controller may be configured to communicate with other controllers in the power system to control the overall operation of the whole power system, to monitor the fault current (or short circuit current) at various locations through signals received from embedded sensors and/or transducers. When a problem or fault is diagnosed, the central controller may be configured to switch off relevant two-stage switching mechanism and isolate the faulty part from the rest of the power system.
As illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B, the control apparatus may also comprise dedicated controller no for each two-stage switching mechanism 100. The dedicated controller no may be configured to control the switching off and/or switching on the power 15 electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, and the circuit breaker
101.
As illustrated in Figures 3C, 3D, 4Ato 4I, the control apparatus may also comprise dedicated controller (not shown) for the power electronic converter 1031 or 1032. The 20 dedicated controller may be configured to control the operation of the power electronic converter 1031 or 1032. The dedicated controller maybe configured to monitor performance and diagnose problems or faults of the power electronic converter 1031 or 1032. For example, the dedicated controller maybe configured to monitor the temperature of the power electronic converter 1031 or 1032 through signals received 25 from embedded sensors and/or transducers. When a problem or fault is diagnosed, the dedicated controller maybe configured to isolate the power electronic converter 1031 or 1032 from the rest of the system.
It will be appreciated that, in general, the switching control operations described herein 30 may be controlled from any appropriate location and performed by any type of suitable control apparatus or combination of control apparatuses. There is no specific limitation to the dedicated controller/central controller arrangement described above.
The various operations performed by the control apparatus of the two-stage switching 35 mechanisms of Figures 2A and 2B will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 5A to 5F.
-19It will be appreciated that the systems of Figures 3Ato 3D and Figures 4Ato 4I are applications of the two-stage switching mechanisms of Figures 2A and 2B, and the various operations performed by the control apparatus of the two-stage switching mechanism of Figures 2A and 2B apply also to the two-stage switching mechanisms of Figures 3A to 3D and Figures 4A to 4I.
As illustrated in Figure 5A, the control apparatus maybe configured to determine a switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100 (S5.1). The control apparatus 10 may be configured to then cause the switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.2). The control apparatus may be configured to then cause the switching off the circuit breaker 101 (S5.3). In this way, the two-stage switching as described above may be caused by control signals sent by the control apparatus.
The control apparatus maybe configured to determine that the switching off operation of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 is based on at least one of: detected current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism 100, detected power conversion efficiency of the power electronic converter 103, detected temperature of the power 20 electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, detected temperature of the circuit breaker 101, detected temperature of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism 100 and detected requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100.
For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that the two-stage switching mechanism 100 is higher than a certain value (e.g. predetermined maximum current), the control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 and the circuit breaker 101, to break the DC circuit.
For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that the power conversion efficiency of the power electronic converter 103 is significantly lower than expected value, which may be in the form of predetermined power conversion efficiency curve (e.g. efficiency vs power or efficiency vs voltage or efficiency vs current), the 35 control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic converter 103 and the circuit breaker 101, to break the DC circuit.
- 20 For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that detected temperature of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 or the circuit breaker 101 is higher than a certain value (e.g. predetermined maximum temperature), the control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 and the circuit breaker 101, to break the DC circuit.
For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that detected temperature of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism
100 is higher than a certain value (e.g. predetermined maximum temperature), the control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 and the circuit breaker 101, to break the DC circuit.
For example, if the control apparatus receives a requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100 from a local manual switch or an external device through communication (e.g. wireless or wired communication), the control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power 20 electronic converter 103 and the circuit breaker 101, to break the DC circuit. For example, when the property housing the two-stage switching mechanism 100 is in fire danger, the end-user may take action to activate an emergency stop (e.g. a local manual switch), which may send a requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100. The end-user may send a requesting signal for switching off the two25 stage switching mechanism 100 through a mobile device. An external energy management system may send a requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100 when something is wrong elsewhere which may have impact on the DC circuit.
As illustrated in Figure 5B, the control apparatus may be configured to determine a switching off the two-stage switching mechanism 100 (S5.1). The control apparatus may be configured to then cause the switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.2). The control apparatus may be configured to then activate an alarming signal (S5.21), which maybe configured to cause the switching off the circuit breaker 101 (S5.3), to break the DC circuit.
- 21 The control apparatus maybe configured to activate an alarming signal that is based on at least one of: detected current flowing through the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 or the circuit breaker 101, detected fault of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, detected fault of the circuit breaker 101 and detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism.
For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that detected temperature of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 10 or the circuit breaker 101 is higher than a certain value (e.g. predetermined maximum temperature), the control apparatus may activate an alarming signal, which maybe configured to cause the switching off the circuit breaker 101.
For example, if the control apparatus receives signal indicating that the power conversion efficiency of the power electronic converter 103 is significantly lower than expected value, which may be in the form of predetermined power conversion efficiency curve (e.g. efficiency vs power or efficiency vs voltage or efficiency vs current), the control apparatus may activate an alarming signal, which may be configured to cause the switching off the circuit breaker 101.
It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 maybe switched off manually or automatically.
As illustrated in Figure 5C, the control apparatus may be configured to determine a switching on the two-stage switching mechanism 100 (S5.4). The control apparatus maybe configured to then cause the switching on the circuit breaker 101 (S5.5). The control apparatus may be configured to then cause the switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.6). In this way, the two-stage switching as described above may be caused by control signals sent by the control apparatus.
The control apparatus maybe configured to determine that the switching on operation of the two-stage switching mechanism 100 is based on detected requesting signal for switching on the two-stage switching mechanism 100 and not any related fault detected (e.g. not any related alarming signal activated). The requesting signal for switching on operation maybe from a manual switching operation through a manual
- 22 switch or from an external device, for example a mobile device but are not limited as such, through communication (e.g. wireless or wired communication), when all the relevant faults or alarming signals are cleared of. A related fault may be, for example, a detected fault current flowing through the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 or the circuit breaker 101, a detected fault of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, a detected fault of the circuit breaker 101 and a detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the twostage switching mechanism 100, but are not limited as such.
It will be appreciated that the circuit breaker 101 may be switched on manually. For example, as illustrated in Figure 5D, the circuit breaker 101 maybe switched on manually (S5.51) when all the relevant faults or alarming signals are cleared of, the control apparatus may be configured to determine a switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.52) based on detected requesting signal for switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, and not any related fault detected (e.g. not any related alarming signal activated), and then cause the switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.6). The requesting signal for switching on operation maybe from a manual switching operation through a manual switch or from an external device through communication (e.g. wireless or wired communication) when all the relevant faults or alarming signals are cleared of.
As illustrated in Figure 5E, the control apparatus maybe configured to determine a switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.11). The control apparatus may be configured to then cause the switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.2). In this way, switching off the DC circuit may be caused by control signals sent by the control apparatus.
The control apparatus may be configured to determine that the switching off operation of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 is based on at least one of: detected current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism 100, and detected requesting signal for switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103.
-23When the control apparatus receives signal indicating that the current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism 100 is slightly higher than a certain value (e.g. predetermined rated current), for example, 20% higher than the predetermined rated current but are not limited as such, the control apparatus may take action to control 5 and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, to switch off the DC circuit electronically. In this circumstance, it may be only necessary to switch off the DC circuit temporarily by switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 and may be unnecessary to switch off the circuit breaker 101.
When the control apparatus receives requesting signal for switching off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 from an external device through communication (e.g. wireless communication or wired communication), for example from an energy management system for responding an instant grid signal but 15 are not limited as such, the control apparatus may take action to control and switch off the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103, to switch off the DC circuit electronically. The power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 may be kept in the “off’ state until the control apparatus receives requesting signal for switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103.
As illustrated in Figure 5F, the control apparatus may be configured to determine a switching on the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.41). The control apparatus maybe configured to then cause the switching on the 25 power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 (S5.6), to switch on the DC circuit electronically.
The control apparatus maybe configured to determine that the switching on operation of the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 is based on at 30 least one of: detected requesting signal for switching on the power electronic switch
102 or the power electronic converter 103 and not any related fault detected (e.g. not any related alarming signal activated), and not any related fault detected after the power electronic switch 102 or the power electronic converter 103 is switched off for a predefined period, for example 10 seconds but are not limited as such.
-24Although various aspects of the invention are set out in the independent claims, other aspects of the invention comprise other combinations of features from the described embodiments and/or the dependent claims with the features of the independent claims, and not solely the combinations explicitly set out in the claims.
It is also noted herein that while the above describes various examples, these descriptions should not be viewed in a limiting sense. Rather, there are several variations and modifications which may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims (25)
1. Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit which comprises two
5 elements or devices, the two-stage switching mechanism comprising:
a circuit breaker; and a power electronic switch, wherein the circuit breaker and the power electronic switch are configured to be in serial connection and couple the two elements or devices in the DC circuit.
io
2. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein the power electronic switch is configured to be switched off in advance of the circuit breaker when it is required to switch off the DC circuit.
15
3. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein the circuit breaker is configured to be switched on in advance of the power electronic switch when it is required to switch on the DC circuit.
4. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a
20 control system configured to control the switching of the power electronic switch.
5. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 4, wherein the control system is further configured to control the switching of the circuit breaker.
25
6. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a power electronic converter.
7. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 6, wherein the control system is configured to control the switching of the power electronic converter.
8. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 6 and 7, wherein the control system is further configured to control the power conversion of the power electronic converter.
35
9. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 1 to 8, wherein the circuit breaker is configured to be operated manually.
10. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 1 to 5, wherein the power electronic switch is configured to be operated manually.
5
11. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 10, wherein the power electronic switch is configured to be operated manually by at least one of sending a switching signal to the power electronic switch through a manual switch;
sending a switching signal to the power electronic switch through an external
10 device.
12. The two-stage switching mechanism of claims 6 to 8, wherein the power electronic converter is configured to be switched on and off manually.
15
13. The two-stage switching mechanism of claim 12, wherein the power electronic converter is configured to be switched on and off manually by at least one of sending a switching signal to the power electronic converter through a manual switch; and sending a switching signal to the power electronic converter through an external 20 device.
14. A method of controlling a two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit, the method comprising:
determining a switching off the two-stage switching mechanism;
25 causing the switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter; and causing the switching off the circuit breaker.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein determining a switching off operation
30 is based on at least one of:
detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism; detected power conversion efficiency of the power electronic converter; detected temperature of the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter;
35 detected temperature of the circuit breaker;
detected temperature of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism; and detected requesting signal for switching off the two-stage switching mechanism.
5
16. The method of claim 14, further comprising activating an alarming signal configured to cause the switching off the circuit breaker.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein activating an alarming signal is based on at least one of:
10 detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism;
detected fault of the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter; detected fault of the circuit breaker; and detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism.
18. The method of claim 14, further comprising determining a switching on the two-stage switching mechanism; causing the switching on the circuit breaker; and causing the switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic
20 converter.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein determining a switching on operation is based on detected requesting signal for switching on the two-stage switching mechanism;
25 and not any related fault detected.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the related fault comprises at least one of: detected fault current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism;
30 detected fault of the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter;
detected fault of the circuit breaker; and detected fault of anyone of the devices coupled by the two-stage switching mechanism.
35
21. The method of claim 14, further comprising determining a switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter; and causing the switching off the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein determining a switching off operation is based on at least one of:
detected current flowing through the two-stage switching mechanism; and detected requesting signal for switching off the power electronic switch or the 10 power electronic converter.
23. The method of claim 14, further comprising determining a switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter; and
15 causing the switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein determining a switching on operation is based on at least one of:
20 detected requesting signal for switching on the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter and not any related fault detected; and not any related fault detected after the power electronic switch or the power electronic converter is switched off for a predefined period.
25
25. The two-stage switching mechanism of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control system is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 14 to 24.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1808517.5A GB2574038A (en) | 2018-05-24 | 2018-05-24 | Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1808517.5A GB2574038A (en) | 2018-05-24 | 2018-05-24 | Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB201808517D0 GB201808517D0 (en) | 2018-07-11 |
| GB2574038A true GB2574038A (en) | 2019-11-27 |
Family
ID=62812376
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1808517.5A Withdrawn GB2574038A (en) | 2018-05-24 | 2018-05-24 | Two-stage switching mechanism for use in a DC circuit |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| GB (1) | GB2574038A (en) |
Citations (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE3438501A1 (en) * | 1984-10-18 | 1986-04-24 | Licentia Patent-Verwaltungs-Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt | Device for connecting a load to a DC voltage source and disconnecting said load from said source |
| US20050146814A1 (en) * | 2003-12-05 | 2005-07-07 | Pierre Sellier | Dispositif disjoncteur hybride |
| GB2493911A (en) * | 2011-08-18 | 2013-02-27 | Univ Manchester | Conduction path of direct current circuit breaker |
| US20140346891A1 (en) * | 2013-05-21 | 2014-11-27 | Ge Energy Power Conversion Technology Limited | Device and method to break the current in power transmission or distribution system |
| US20140376140A1 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-12-25 | Xi'an Jiaotong University | Hybrid dc breaker |
| US20150022928A1 (en) * | 2011-12-22 | 2015-01-22 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Hybrid dc circuit breaking device |
| US20160322809A1 (en) * | 2015-04-28 | 2016-11-03 | General Electric Company | Dc circuit breaker and method of use |
| EP3091550A1 (en) * | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-09 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Hybrid switching device |
-
2018
- 2018-05-24 GB GB1808517.5A patent/GB2574038A/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE3438501A1 (en) * | 1984-10-18 | 1986-04-24 | Licentia Patent-Verwaltungs-Gmbh, 6000 Frankfurt | Device for connecting a load to a DC voltage source and disconnecting said load from said source |
| US20050146814A1 (en) * | 2003-12-05 | 2005-07-07 | Pierre Sellier | Dispositif disjoncteur hybride |
| GB2493911A (en) * | 2011-08-18 | 2013-02-27 | Univ Manchester | Conduction path of direct current circuit breaker |
| US20150022928A1 (en) * | 2011-12-22 | 2015-01-22 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Hybrid dc circuit breaking device |
| US20140376140A1 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-12-25 | Xi'an Jiaotong University | Hybrid dc breaker |
| US20140346891A1 (en) * | 2013-05-21 | 2014-11-27 | Ge Energy Power Conversion Technology Limited | Device and method to break the current in power transmission or distribution system |
| US20160322809A1 (en) * | 2015-04-28 | 2016-11-03 | General Electric Company | Dc circuit breaker and method of use |
| EP3091550A1 (en) * | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-09 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Hybrid switching device |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB201808517D0 (en) | 2018-07-11 |
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| WAP | Application withdrawn, taken to be withdrawn or refused ** after publication under section 16(1) |