HUE033249T2 - Áramelosztó rendszer egyenként izolálható mûködési zónákkal - Google Patents

Description

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION (45) Date of publication and mention (51) Int Cl.: of the grant of the patent: H02B 1124 (2006 01> 16.11.2016 Bulletin 2016/46 (86) International application number: (21) Application number: 06828053.6 PCT/AU2006/001949 (22) Date of filing: 20.12.2006 (87) International publication number: WO 2007/070955 (28.06.2007 Gazette 2007/26)

(54) POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM WITH INDIVIDUALLY ISOLATABLE FUNCTIONAL ZONES

STROMVERTEILUNGSSYSTEM MIT INDIVIDUELL ISOLIERBAREN FUNKTIONALEN ZONEN

SYSTEME DE DISTRIBUTION ELECTRIQUE COMPORTANT DES ZONES FONCTIONNELLES POUVANT ETRE ISOLEES INDIVIDUELLEMENT (84) Designated Contracting States: · DATABASE WPI Week 199921, Derwent

AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X13, AN

HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC NL PL PT RO SE SI 1999-251556, XP003015136 & JP 11 075 307 A SK TR (ONPA DENKI KOGYO KK) 16 March 1999 • DATABASE WPI Week 200381, Derwent

(30) Priority: 20.12.2005 AU 2005907178 Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X13, AN

13.04.2006 US 791732 P 2003-872326, XP003015137 & JP 2003 324809 A (YASKAWA ELECTRIC CORP) 14 November 2003 (43) Date of publication of application: · DATABASE WPI Week 199344, Derwent

03.09.2008 Bulletin 2008/36 Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X13, AN 1993-350129, XP003015138 & SU 1 772 853 A1 (73) Proprietor: Ross, Bradley Leighton (LOW VOLTAGE EQUIP RES DES CONSTR INST)

Belgrave South VIC 3160 (AU) 30 October 1992 • DATABASE WPI Week 198506, Derwent

(72) Inventor: Ross, Bradley Leighton Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X13, AN

Belgrave South VIC 3160 (AU) 1985-035623, XP003015139 & JP 59 230 410 A (HITACHI KK) 25 December 1984 (74) Representative: Tomlinson, Kerry John · DATABASE WPI Week 199633, Derwent

Dehns Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X12, AN

St Bride’s House 1996-327893, XP003015140 & JP 08 149 666 A 10 Salisbury Square (SUMITOMO ELECTRIC IND CO) 07 June 1996

London · DATABASE WPI Week 199026, Derwent

EC4Y 8JD (GB) Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class T01, AN 1990-195864, XP003015141 & FR 2 638 910 A (56) References cited: (BOUSSARD) 11 May 1990 WO-A1-00/31844 WO-A1-90/15465 · DATABASE WPI Week 199329, Derwent

WO-A2-03/073221 US-A- 4 241 379 Publications Ltd., London, GB; Class X12, AN 1993-228529, XP003015142 & EP 0 551 649 A2 (WIELAND ELEKTRISCHE IND GMBH) 21 July 1993

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to power distribution systems with individually isolatable functional zones.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Electrical power distribution systems, for example industrial switchboards, generally contain a bank of supply conductors to which switchgear is connected. The supply conductors allow theflow of large currents through the switchboard, and are generally single insulated, partially bare or not fully insulated. Human interaction with live supply conductors during maintenance, servicing, modification, etc. therefore poses a severe electrocution hazard and a major risk to power supply continuity.

[0003] Document WO90/15465 discloses a power distribution system (the document is directed towards an electric switchboard) having a plurality (There are a plurality of compartments) of individually isolatable functional nodes (cells 4) each connected via an isolating device to a power distribution bus (Switch I in cell 3) that is connected via an isolating device to a power input node (Isolation switch SLT in cell 2) which is connectable to a power source (Busbar 5,6 is connected to the supply), wherein the power distribution bus and the isolating devices are housed in a power distribution compartment (Cell 2 contains the busbar and isolation switch SLT), and wherein the power input node and the functional nodes are housed separately from one another (Cells 2 and 3 and 4 are separated) and the powerdistribution compartment in functional compartments adjacent thereto.

[0004] A need therefore exists for a solution that enables electrical power distribution systems to be safely worked on without compromising power supply continuity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided an electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working, including a powerdistribution compartment and a plurality of insulative compartments adjacent the power distribution compartment and a plurality of distribution conductors respectively terminating inside the plurality of insulative compartments, wherein the plurality of distribution conductors can be electrically isolated from respective supply conductors by respective isolating devices housed in the power distribution compartment wherein each one of the isolating devices is associated with, but external to, one of the plurality of insulative compartments and wherein the power distribution compartment has a cover including apertures through which the isolating devices are individually accessible by an operator from outside the power distribution compartment without the operator coming into contact with live con ductors, so thatdistribution conductors terminating inside individual insulative compartments can be isolated from the supply conductors and electrical work can be safely performed on respective isolated distribution conductors inside respective insulative compartments while the other distribution conductors remain energised.

[0006] The plurality of feeders can be connected to each other by a busbar external to the plurality.

[0007] The power distribution bus can be connected via an isolating device to an alternative power input/out-put node which is connectable to an alternative power source or a power output, wherein the alternative power input/output node is separately housed in a functional compartment adjacent to the powerdistribution compartment.

[0008] The isolating devices can be selected from isolating switches, circuit breakers, fuses, and combinations thereof.

[0009] The power distribution compartment can have a cover with apertures through which the isolating devices are individually accessible to enable the functional nodes, the power input node, and the alternative power input/output node to be individually isolated from the power distribution bus.

[0010] The power distribution compartment and the functional compartments can be housed together in a power distribution unit cabinet or a switchboard cabinet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figures 1A-C are schematic diagrams of embodiments of a switchboard having a single isolatable functional zone according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a switchboard of the present invention having multiple different isolatable functional zones;

Figures 3A-B are schematic diagrams of a data centre uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system that includes embodiments of isolatable functional zones of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an electric motor having a power distribution system of an embodiment of the invention with individually isolatable functional zones; and

Figures 5 and 6 are front views of a powerdistribution unit cabinet of one embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 is a fragmentary perspective view of functional compartments of the power distribution unit cabinet of Figures 5 and 6;

Figures 8 to 10 are partial circuit diagrams for six functional nodes of the powerdistribution unit cabinet of Figure 5 to 7 showing different three- and four-pole wiring configurations;

Figure 11 is a front view of a switchboard cabinet of another embodiment of the invention; and Figure 12 is a simplified circuit diagram of the switchboard cabinet of Figure 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Figure 1A illustrates an electrical switchboard 100 having an enclosure 102 and a plurality of electrically insulated and/or earthed box shaped functional compartments 104 positioned along opposite sides of the enclosure 102. The functional compartments 104 formed from electrically insulative material or earthed-metal material. The enclosure 102 and the functional compartments 104 can be integrally formed ora modular assembly. Electric current is supplied through three-phase, five-wire supply conductors 106 that extend through the enclosure 102. Three-phase, five-wire distribution conductors 108 are electrically connected to corresponding ones of the supply conductors by teed feeder conductors 110. Isolation switches 112 are interposed between the teed feeder conductors 110 and insulated functional compartment 104. Suitable isolation switches 112 can include, forex-ample, isolators, circuit breakers, fuses, etc. The isolation switches 112 and the functional compartment 104 together provide an electrically isolatable functional zone for making and breaking electrical connections with the distribution conductors 108 without de-energising the supply conductors 106 within the live zone of the enclosure 102.

[0013] In Figure 1 A, the isolation switches 112 are circuit breakers and the functional compartment 104 of the isolatable functional zone is fitted with a functional node consisting of a single-phase output circuit breaker. The distribution conductors 108 pass directly from the isolatable functional zone into the circuit breaker in the functional compartment 104 without exposing any live conductors. Thus, an electrician who is required to work with the compartment 104 can do so without fear of accidentally coming into contact with a live conductor.

[0014] The switchboard of Figure 1B is substantially identical to that of Figure 1A. Here the isolatable functional zone is fitted with a three-phase output circuit breaker. In Figure 1C, the isolation switches 112 are isolators, and the isolatable functional zone is fitted with a single-phase output circuit breaker. For the purposes of clarity, example electrical connections and example circuit components for only one isolatable functional zone are illustrated in Figures 1A-C. It will be appreciated that the switchboard 100 can be implemented with any suitable number of isolatable functional zones having any and all single-phase or multi-phase combinations of conventional isolation switches 112 and conventional electrical circuits, components, devices, etc.

[0015] Figure 2 illustrates an exam pie switchboard 200 having multiple different three-phase, three-pole isolatable functional zones with example electrical circuits, components, devices, etc, indicated by the following reference letters. A Primary input supply. B Alternative input supply/fully rated output supply. C Three-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with three phase output terminals. D Three-phase isolator with fully rated link (cable or bar) supplying an isolatable functional zone fitted with a three-phase output circuit breaker. E Three-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to supplying an isolatable functional zone fitted with three-phase output circuit breaker. F Three-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. G Three-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. H Three-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. I Single-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. J Single-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. K Single-phase upstream circuit breaker protection to an isolatable functional zone fitted with a singlephase output circuit breaker. L Single-phase isolator with fully rated link (cable or bar) supplying an isolatable functional zone fitted with a single-phase output circuit breaker. M Volt free auxiliary status contacts fitted to circuit breakers that supply metering equipment for volt free isolatable functional zones/volt free conductors. N Volt free auxiliary status contacts fitted to circuit breakers that supply monitoring and surge protection equipment for volt free isolatable functional zones/volt free conductors. O Volt free auxiliary status contacts fitted to a singlephase output circuit breaker/ volt free conductors within an isolatable functional zone. P Volt free auxiliary status contacts fitted to a three-phase upstream circuit breaker/volt free conductors. Q Volt free terminal isolatable functional zone for building automation system (BAS) interface. R Metering isolatable functional zone with current transformer bridging as a shorting facility to eliminate risk of electrocution in conjunction with isolation of three phase supply to the metering isolatable functional zone/volt free output conductors that terminate in the adjacent volt free isolatable functional zone Q. S Monitoring/surge protection/indicators lights isolatable functional zone in conjunction with isolation of three phase supply to the monitoring isolatable functional zone/volt free output conductors that terminate in the adjacent volt free isolatable functional zone Q. T Transducer isolatable functional zone for a current transformer located within the live zone within the enclosure so as to provide a non-serviceable current transformer without isolation of the entire switchboard 200. U Transducer isolatable functional zone for a current transformer located within the adjacent isolatable functional zone L so as to provide a serviceable current transformer without isolation of the entire switchboard 200.

[0016] The above electrical circuits, components, devices, etc, and isolatable functional zones are examples only. It will be appreciated that the switchboard 200 can be alternatively implemented with any and all singlephase or multi-phase combinations of conventional electrical circuits, components, devices, etc.

[0017] Figures 3A-B illustrate example isolatable functional zones of the present invention implemented in an electrical distribution system 300, for example, a three-phase, five-wire electrical distribution system used in an industrial site, for example, a dual UPS reticulation system in a data centre. Referring to Figure 3A, electrical power is supplied to the system 300 from two risers. The take off boxes A, B for the risers each have isolatable functional zones to change protective devices and disconnect or connect conductors within the functional zones without isolating the respective risers.

[0018] The main switchboards C, D of the system 300 each have isolatable functional zones for primary and alternative input supplies. Automatic transfer switch (ATS) switchboards E, F have isolatablefunctional zones for primary and alternative input supplies to both supplies. In each switchboard C, D, E, F, either of the primary or the alternative input supply isolatable functional zones can be used to provide a fully rated output supply. The respective isolating protective devices within the live zone of the switchboards C, D, E, F can be changed to suit varying site requirements to supply isolatable functional zones fitted with terminals or bolted crimped lug connections. The reserved isolatable functional zones in switchboards C, D, E, F can be fitted with terminals or bolted crimped lug connections for the purpose of supplying down stream switchboards/equipment to provide a parallel alternative supply during maintenance of, updating and increasing capacity of the system 300. Switchboards G, FI have isolatable functional zones which can provide options for reconfiguring cabling without disrupting supply continuity.

[0019] Referring to Figure 3B, static transfer switches I, J each include isolatable functional zones to enable cable reconfiguration without power disruption. The main distribution boards and the sub-distribution boards of the system 300 are respectively provided by switchboards K, L and switchboards Μ, N. Each of these switchboards have isolatable functional zones which provide the same general functionality as discussed above in relation to switchboards C, D, E, F. To provide final sub-circuit distribution in the system 300, the sub-distribution switchboards Μ, N can have isolatable functional zones generally similar to those discussed and above in relation to switchboard 200 and depicted in Figure 2.

[0020] Figure 4 illustrates isolatable functional zones 400 of the invention implemented with a critical load E that requires a substantially continuous power supply, for example, an electric motor, electric equipment, computer equipment, communications equipment, etc. Isolatable functional zone A 400 provides primary input supply, and zone B provides alternative parallel input supply. A primary input supply isolator is included in isolatable functional zone C, and zone D includes an alternative parallel input supply isolator. Zone F provides connection terminals to the critical load E. In use, the parallel input supplies of the isolatable functional zones A, B, C, D can be sequentially and alternatively disconnected and connected to primary and alternative main switch-boards/supplies so as to provide continuity of supply to the critical load E in the event that its primary switch-board/supply needs to be shutdown for electrical repairs.

[0021] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate a power distribution unit cabinet 500 of one embodiment of the invention. The power distribution unit cabinet 500 is configured to distribute power to a row of server cabinets (not shown) in a data room. Advantageously, the power distribution unit cabinet 500 is shaped and dimensioned to generally complement the shape and dimensions of the server cabinets. The power distribution unit cabinet 500 includes a power distribution busway (or chassis) 502 that is connected via isolating switches 504 and cables to a plurality of individually isolatablefunctional nodes 506. The power distribution busway 502 is connected via an isolating switch 504 to a power input node 508 which is connectable to a power source. The power distribution busway 502 is also connected via a circuit breaker 510 to an alternative power input/output node 512 which is connectable to an alternative power source or a power output.

[0022] The power distribution busway 502 is housed in an insulated power distribution compartment 514, while the functional nodes 506, the power input node 508, and the alternative power input/output node 512 and are housed separately from one another and the power distribution compartment 514 in adjacentfunctional compartments having covers. As best seen in Figure 6, the power distribution compartment 514 has a cover 518 with apertures through which the isolating switches 504 and the circuit breaker 510 are individually accessible to enable the functional nodes 506, the power input node 508, and the alternative power input/output node 512 to be individually isolated from the power distribution busway 502. The functional compartments housing the functional nodes 506, the power input node 508, and the alternative power input/output node 512 can be individually num- bered or coded to enable them to be readily located during wiring-in, maintenance and repair. The functional compartments and their covers can be coloured differently from the power distribution compartment 514 and its cover 518 to respectively signify isolatable and live zones of the power distribution unit cabinet 500. For example, the functional compartments and their covers can be coloured white, while the power distribution compartment 514 can be coloured orange.

[0023] As shown in Figure 7, the functional nodes 506 housed in the functional compartments (for clarity shown without covers) include auxiliary status contacts 520 fitted to circuit breakers 522. Referring again to Figures 5 and 6, one or more functional nodes 506 can be housed in compartments provided in the cover of the power distribution unit cabinet 500. These functional nodes 506 include a power quality meter, supply available indicator lights, a volt sensing relay, and a surge suppressor. It will be appreciated that the functional nodes 506 can be interfaces or connections points for any and all conventional electrical components, devices, instruments, loads, etc. Figures 8 to 10 show different three-and four-pole wiring configurations of the power distribution busway 502 and the functional nodes 506 (for clarity only six are shown). It will be appreciated that the power distribution unit cabinet 500 can be alternatively implemented in any and all conventional configuration types or grounding types: number of poles; number of wires; voltage; single- or three-phase; two-pole, three-wire; four-pole, five-wire; two-pole, two wire; three-pole, three-wire; etc.

[0024] Figure 11 shows the invention implemented as a switchboard cabinet 600 that generally includes a power distribution busway (or chassis) 602 that is connected via circuit breakers 604 and cables to a plurality of individually isolatable functional nodes 606. The power distribution busway 602 is connected via an isolating switch 608 to a power input node 610 which is connectable to a power source. The power distribution busway 602 is also connected via a circuit breaker 604 to an alternative power input/output node 612 which is connectable to an alternative power source or a power output. The power distribution busway 602 is housed in a powerdistribution compartment 614, while the functional nodes 606, the power input node 610, and the alternative power input/output node 612 and are housed separately from one another and the power distribution compartment 614 in adjacent functional compartments. The functional compartments and the power distribution compartment 614 each have covers. As before, the cover of the powerdistribution compartment 614 has apertures (for clarity not shown in Figure 11) through which the circuit breakers 604 and the isolating switch 608 are individually accessible to enable the functional nodes 606, the power input node 610, and the alternative power input/output node 612 to be individually isolated from the powerdistribution busway 602. Again, the functional compartments housing the functional nodes 606, the power input node 610, and the alternative power input/output node 612 can be individually numbered or coded to enable them to be readily located during wiring-in, maintenance and repair. In addition, the functional compartments and their covers can be coloured white, while the power distribution compartment 614 can be coloured orange to differentiate between live and isolatable zones of the switchboard cabinet 600.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the functional nodes 606 housed in the functional compartments include terminals and auxiliary status outputs. Additional functional nodes 606 are housed in compartments provided in the covers of the functional compartments. These functional nodes 606 include a power quality meter, supply available indicator lights, a volt sensing relay, and a surge suppressor. It will be appreciated that the functional nodes 606 can be interfaces or connections points for any and all conventional electrical components, devices, instruments, circuitry, loads, etc. Figure 12 shows a three-pole wiring configuration for the power distribution busway 602 and the functional nodes 606, but it will be appreciated that the switchboard cabinet 600 can be alternatively implemented in any and all conventional configuration types or grounding types: number of poles; number of wires; voltage; single- or three-phase; two-pole, three-wire; four-pole, five-wire; two-pole, two wire; three-pole, three-wire; etc.

[0026] Embodiments of the powerdistribution system of the invention can be designed to allow switchboards and power systems supporting telecommunications equipment and other platforms to be worked on safely without persons having to work on live electrical equipment, and without interrupting the continuity of telecommunications equipment and other platforms. Embodiments of the invention provide the following advantages.

[0027] Risk - Occupational Health and Safety - Eliminates risk of electrocution of electricians.

[0028] Risk - Human Intervention - Eliminates risk of human intervention causing interruption of power to critical loads.

[0029] Risks - Loss of power continuity - Enables a multitude of electrical procedures to be performed without electrical isolation of critical loads.

[0030] Risk - Financial impact on business - Enables a multitude of electrical procedures to be performed without electrical isolation of critical loads. Reduces the re-quirementfor planned shutdowns of electrical distribution systems which cause loss of power continuity. Maintenance procedures - In the event that repairs are required to be performed on an upstream switchboard, afully rated parallel alternative supply for switchboard with switchboard with individually isolatablefunctional zones without interruption to critical loads.

[0031] Upgrade procedures - In the event that re-ar-rangement /upgrade/alterations to an existing electrical reticulation system is required, a fully-rated parallel alternative input supply (main) for a switchboard can be supplied from an upstream switchboard with individually isolatable functional zones without interruption to critical loads.

[0032] End-to-end solution to working on energised critical electrical distribution systems - Elimination of risk of electrocution whilst performing electrical works on energised critical electrical distribution systems. Provides the ability for an electrician to perform works on critical electrical distribution systems without having to isolate electrical distribution infrastructure/switchboards/sub-boards/multiple sub-circuits in order to perform electrical works.

[0033] Design Criteria-At the electrical reticulation design stage, the individually isolatable functional zones provide substantial flexibility to provide continuity of power supply to critical loads for maintenance procedures including, for example: thermographic survey - fault repair; upgrade procedures; breakdown - rapid power restoration to critical loads - by being able to access power from an isolatable functional zone switchboard for the connection of temporary cables to supply temporary switchboard to reinstate power to critical loads; AC distribution - all voltages no limitations; DC distribution all voltages no limitations; current - no limitations.

[0034] Embodiments of the invention provide individually isolatable functional zones that when isolated have no live conductors within, eliminating or at least minimising the risk of electrocution. Embodiments enable electricians to isolate an individual isolatable functional zone for each outgoing circuit/cable and alter the protective device within the isolatable functional zone to accommodate changing site requirements without the requirement to isolate the entire switchboard, for example, single phase/three phase 15 to 32 amp outgoing sub circuits/15 - 32 amp switched outlets in the field.

[0035] Embodiments of the invention also provide an individual isolatable functional zone for a fully rated alternative (backfeed) incoming supply circuit/cable, which in addition can be used as a fully-rated outgoing supply circuit. Embodiments further provide individually isolatable functional zones for electrical riser take off boxes. In addition, embodiments enable electricians to isolate individually isolatable functional zones by operating the protective device within the take off box, and allows con-nection/disconnection of circuit/cable within the isolatable functional zones to accommodate changing site requirements without the requirement to isolate the entire riser.

[0036] Embodiments of the invention further provide individually isolatable functional zones for monitor-ing/metering/surge suppression equipment. This enables electricians to isolate an individual isolatable functional zone for voltage monitoring/power quality meter-ing/surge suppression equipment for upgrade and service purposes.

[0037] In addition, embodiments of the invention provide individually isolatable functional zones for volt free connection of BAS terminals. This enables volt free monitoring of circuit breaker status/supply voltage monitor-ing/surge suppression status which terminates in the in dividual functional zone for volt free connection to BAS connection terminals.

[0038] In switchboard embodiments, the individual isolatable functional zones can be supplied from the live zone of the switchboard via dedicated isolators/circuit breakers/fuses -1,2,3 or 4 pole which are used to isolate each isolatable functional zone. The neutral conductors supplying the isolatable functional zones are terminated within the live zone of the switchboard to a traditional neutral bar and, in the case of 4 pole switching arrangement, the neutral is connected directly to the isolator/cir-cuit breaker - (4 pole). The earth conductors supplying the isolatable functional zones are terminated within the live zone of the switchboard to a traditional earth bar. All internal switchboard conductors between the live zone of the switchboard and the isolatable functional zones are terminated in both zones under screw or crimped lugged and bolted termination and require no specialised shrouding in either live zone or isolatable functional zones. Outgoing sub-main or sub-circuit cable protection 1, 2, 3 phase and 4 pole options can be achieved at the design stage so that when the isolatable functional zone switchboard is commissioned and critical load connected, alterations to the protective devices within the isolatable functional zones can be made. For example, if three-phase 63 amp dedicated isolators/circuit breakers/fuses are used within the live zone to supply the isolatable functional zones, and if conductors between the live zone and the isolatable functional zones are appropriately sized and protected, then the protective devices within the isolatable functional zones can be selectively varied between single, two and three-phase and between current ratings of 10, 16, 20, 32, 40, 50, 63 amp. This allows flexible sub-main and final sub-circuit alterations without isolating other critical loads connected to the same switchboard. The result is that every conductor within the cable being connected or disconnected from the switchboard terminates in the individual isolatable functional zone to a circuit breaker, a fuse assembly, a terminal, or bolted to a copper link.

[0039] Embodiments of the invention obviate the need for electricians to interact with live conductors under load as none exist within isolated functional zones. The only conductors that require electrician interaction are individual circuits that are isolated by the functional zones. The individually isolatable functional zones of embodiments of the invention allow a wide range of procedures to safely undertaken without de-energising the entire system or a critical load supplied thereby. Such procedures can, for example, include: replacement of a faulty protective device (circuit breaker or fuse assembly); changing of the type, protection rating, phase connection, etc, of circuit breakers, fuse assemblies, residual current devices, etc; replacement, repair, connection, etc, of monitoring and/or control equipment; replacement, repair, connection, etc, of current transformers to primary input supplies to switchboards and outgoing sub-circuits; replacement, repair, connection, etc, of surge protection devices to switchboards; connection and disconnection to switchboards of sub-circuits, primary input supplies, fully rated parallel alternative input supplies, fully rated output supply sub-circuits, power quality analysers, etc; electrical reticulation design; thermographic survey, fault repair, etc; upgrading, updating, increasing capacity, etc; rapid power restoration to critical loads in case of breakdowns by accessing power from functional zones for the connection of temporary cables to supply temporary switchboard to restore power to critical loads; etc.

[0040] Embodiments of the invention can be implemented as a single final distribution switchboard that supplies uninterruptible power to critical electrical equipment, computing equipment, communication equipment, etc, in a industrial site, plant, facility, etc. The isolatable functional zones allow, for example, disconnection of redundant sub-circuits from the final distribution switchboard, connection of new sub-circuits to the final distribution switchboard, changing of the final sub-circuit protective device from single-phase to three-phase, variation of over current ratings, etc. In addition, the individually isolatable functional zones allow connection and disconnection of a fully rated parallel alternative inputsupply to the final distribution switchboard without interruption to critical loads.

[0041] The embodiments have been described byway of exam pie only and modifications are possible within the scope of the invention disclosed. For example, the isolatable functional zones can be formed in or electrically connected to one or more components of electrical equipment in an electrical distribution system including at least one of an electrical switchboard, an electrical device, an electrical load, an electrical distribution sub-system, and electrical component and an electrical apparatus. The electrical equipmentcan include an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). In addition, embodiments of the invention can be implemented in AC or DC electrical distribution systems with no limitations to voltage or current.

Claims 1. Electrical distribution switchboard (100) for live-line working, including (a) a power distribution compartment (102) and a plurality of insulative compartments (104) adjacent the power distribution compartment; and (b) a plurality of distribution conductors (108) respectively terminating inside the plurality of insulative compartments (104), wherein the plurality of distribution conductors (108) can be electrically isolated from respective supply conductors (106) by respective isolating devices (112) housed in the power distribution compartment (102); wherein each one of the isolating devices is associ ated with, but external to, one of the plurality of insulative compartments (104); and wherein the power distribution compartment has a cover (518) including apertures through which the isolating devices (112) are individually accessible by an operatorfrom outside the power distribution compartment without the operator coming into contact with live conductors, so that distribution conductors (108) terminating inside individual insulative compartments (104) can be isolated from the supply conductors (106) and electrical work can be safely performed on respective isolated distribution conductors (108) inside respective insulative compartments (104) while the other distribution conductors (108) remain energised. 2. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of distribution conductors (108) are connected to each other by a busbar (502, 602) in the power distribution compartment and external to the plurality of insulative compartments. 3. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of distribution conductors (108) includes at least one incoming distribution conductor (108) and at least one outgoing distribution conductor (108). 4. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of distribution conductors (108) includes at least two incoming distribution conductors (108) that are respectively connectable to at least two alternate supplies via at least two insulative compartments. 5. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of isolating devices are selected from isolating switches, circuit breakers, fuses, and combinations thereof. 6. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of distribution conductors (108) are single-phase or multi-phase, and single-wire or multiwire. 7. Electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the electrical distribution apparatus is selected from switchgear, a switchboard, a distribution board, a switch cabinet, a distribution cabinet, and combinations thereof. 8. An electrical system including electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to any one of claims 1 to 7. 9. An uninterruptible power supply system including electrical distribution switchboard for live-line working according to claim 4.

Patentansprüche 1. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel (100) zum Arbeiten unter Spannung, die umfasst: (a) einen Energieverteilerraum (102) und eine Vielzahl isolierender, dem Energieverteilerraum benachbarter Räume (104); und (b) eine Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108), die jeweils innerhalb der Vielzahl isolierender Räume (104) enden, wobei die Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108) von jeweiligen Zuleitungen (106) durch jeweilige, im Energieverteilerraum (102) aufgenommene isolierende Vorrichtungen (112) elektrisch isoliert werden kann; wobei jede der isolierenden Vorrichtungen mit, aber außerhalb von, einem der Vielzahl isolierender Räume (104) verbunden ist; und wobei der Energieverteilerraum eine Abdeckung (518) besitzt, die Öffnungen umfasst, durch die die isolierenden Vorrichtungen (112) von einem Bediener von außerhalb des Energieverteilerraumes einzeln zugänglich sind, ohne dass der Bediener mit den unter Spannung stehenden in Kontakt Leitern kommt, so dass die innerhalb einzelner isolierender Räume (104) endenden Verteilerleiter (108) von den Zuleitungen (106) isoliert werden können und elektrische Arbeit sicher an den jeweiligen isolierten Verteilerleitern (108) innerhalb der jeweiligen isolierenden Räumen (104) durchgeführt werden kann, während die sonstigen Verteilerleiter (108) spannungsführend verbleiben. 2. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß Anspruch 1, wobei die Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108) aneinander durch eine Sammelschiene (502, 602) in dem Energieverteilerraum und außerhalb an die Vielzahl isolierender Räume angeschlossen ist. 3. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß Anspruch 1, wobei die Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108) wenigstens einen eingehenden Verteilerleiter (108) und wenigstens einen ausgehenden Verteilerleiter (108) umfasst. 4. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei die Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108) wenigstens zwei eingehen de Verteilerleiter (108) umfasst, die jeweils mit wenigstens zwei alternativen Anschlüsse mittels wenigstens zweier isolierender Räume verbunden werden können. 5. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, wobei die Vielzahl isolierender Vorrichtungen ausgewählt ist aus Trennschaltern, Schutzschaltern, Sicherungen und einer Kombination hiervon. 6. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei die Vielzahl von Verteilerleitern (108) einphasig oder mehrphasig, und eindrähtig oder mehrdrähtig ist. 7. Elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, wobei die elektrische Verteilervorrichtung ausgewählt ist aus einem Schaltgerät, einer Schalttafel, einer Verteilertafel, einem Schaltschrank, einem Verteilerschrank und einer Kombination hiervon. 8. Elektrisches System, das eine elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7 enthält. 9. Unterbrechungsfreies Stromversorgungssystem, das eine elektrische Verteilerschalttafel zum Arbeiten unter Spannung gemäß Anspruch 4 umfasst.

Revendications 1. Tableau de distribution électrique (100) pour travaux sous tension, incluant (a) un compartiment de distribution d’énergie (102) et une pluralité de compartiments isolants (104) adjacents au compartiment de distribution d’énergie ; et (b) une pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) se terminant respectivement à l’intérieur de la pluralité de compartiments isolants (104), dans lesquels la pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) peut être électriquement isolée de conducteurs d’alimentation respectifs (106) par des dispositifs d’isolement respectifs (112) logés dans le compartiment de distribution d’énergie (102) ; dans lequel chacun des dispositifs d’isolement est associé, mais externe, à un de la pluralité de compartiments isolants (104) ; et dans lequel le compartiment de distribution d’énergie a un couvercle (518) incluant des ouvertures à travers lesquelles les dispositifs d’isolement (112) sont accessibles individuellement par un opérateur à partirde l’extérieur du compartiment de distribution d’énergie sans que l’opérateur entre en contact avec des conducteurs sous tension, de sorte que des conducteurs de distribution (108) se terminant à l’intérieur de compartiments isolants individuels (104) peuvent être isolés des conducteurs d’alimentation (106) et qu’un travail électrique peut être effectué sans risque sur des conducteurs de distribution isolés respectifs (108) à l’intérieur de compartiments isolants respectifs (104) tandis que les autres conducteurs de distribution (108) restent excités. 2. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon la revendication 1, dans lequel la pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) fait qu’ils sont reliés les uns aux autres par une barre bus (502, 602) dans le compartiment de distribution d’énergie et externes à la pluralité de compartiments isolants. 3. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon la revendication 1, dans lequel la pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) inclut au moins un conducteur de distribution entrant (108) et au moins un conducteur de distribution sortant (108). 4. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon la revendication 3, dans lequel la pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) inclut au moins deux conducteurs de distribution entrants (108) qui peuvent respectivement être reliés à au moins deux alimentations supplémentaires via au moins deux compartiments isolants. 5. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, dans lequel la pluralité de dispositifs d’isolement est sélectionnée parmi des commutateurs d’isolement, des disjoncteurs, des fusibles et des combinaisons de ceux-ci. 6. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans lequel la pluralité de conducteurs de distribution (108) est monophasée ou à phases multiples, et à fil simple ou multiconducteur. 7. Tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, dans lequel l’appareil de distribution électrique est sélectionné parmi un appareillage de commutation, un tableau de distribution, une carte de distribution, une armoire de commutation, une armoire de distribution, et des combinaisons de ceux-ci. 8. Système électrique incluant un tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7. 9. Système d’alimentation en énergie sans coupure incluant un tableau de distribution électrique pour travaux sous tension selon la revendication 4.

REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader’s convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.

Patent documents cited in the description • WO 9015465 A [0003]

Claims (2)

1. ÁRAMELOSZTÓ RENDSZER EGYENRÍNT IZOLÁLHATÓ MŰKÖDÉSI ZÓNÁKKAL szabadalmi íöImöntök :L Villamos: elosztó kapesoioíábia (lÖÖ) feszültség aiaít Síié vezetékeken végzendő nmíikához, aüely tartalmaz (Φ égy íAanmlosztő rekeszt (102) és több) az áramelosztó rekesszel szomszédös sztpt«lorék«ssí (104); és (b) a több szigetelőrekesz (Úté) belsejében megfelelően végződő több elösztŐVéZetlkér ,(108), ahol a több elosztóvezeték (108) megfelelő tápvezetékektől (106) az áramelosztó rekeszben (lÖB) elhelyezett megülélÖ szlgeteiőeszközbk 012) által villamosáé: szigetelhető; ahol a szigelelöeszközök mindegyike kívülről a több szigetelőrekesz (104) egyikével van társítva;; és abbi az áramelosztó rekesznek nyílásokat tartalmazó bevonata (US) van, aíöé% nyílásokon ks^szttíl a szigeté Ibeszközök (.02) egyenként elérhetők az áramelosztó rekeszen kívülrőlegy szerelő szárrira ánéíküS, hogy a szerelő a feszültség alatt álló vezetékekkel érintkezésbe kerülne, ahol a» (104) belsejében végződő elosztóvezetékek í 108) a tápvezetékektől (106) alválassSli^Ofc·# .¾¾ «leks^ps-s^lési munka a íttegfoleió szsgetelörekeszek 004) belsejében lévő megfelelő szigeteit elokBŐyezétéheksír (108) biztonságosan végrehajtható, mialatt a többi elosztóvezeték (108) foszöltség aláttmamd,
2. 2, Az L igénypönt szerinti víllajnos elosztó kapötolÓílbiá: .feszültség akti álló vezetékékéO végzetidő inmlkáboz, ahől: az élesAőyezetékek 008} egy, az áramelosztó rekeszben lévő, a sztgetelöfekeszéíi kívül haladó gyuj tősínen (502, 602) keresztül van egymáshoz kapcsolva. :$< Az 1, igéöygöfif szerinti vilismns elöszíb kapcsolótábla feszültség alatt álló vezetékeken végzendő munkához, ahol a több elosztóvezeték (108) legalább egy bemenő elosztóvezetéket; (108) és legalább egy kimenő elosztóvezetékét (408) foglal magába, 4. A 1 Igéjtij^tóbl. 'vill»flük: elüztó jNjptéüfltltÉikl:. üföszfütség alatt Illő vezetékeken végzendő mnakához, aboí A· :£l$$j; lléplfbb két bemenő elosztóvezetékéi (108) foglal magába, átnelysk megfoldőeti esatlakozíatbatök iépláhb két alternatív lépáramfoxtáshöz togsiálh két szigeteiőrekeszsn kérészük I, Az 1-4, igénypontok bármelyike szerbül villamos elosztó kapesolotábin feszültség alatt átló vezetékeken végzendő mnbkábóz, ahol a szigeieiőesüöZÖk as alábbiak közöl vannak üyálásztva; leválasztó ks^csoiők, megszakítók, olvadóbiztosítők és ezeknek a kombinációi. §< &amp;μ 1 -S, igéáypotttok bármelyiké széiintl villamos elosztó kapcsolótábla feszültség alatt álló vezetékekéit vépeíKlé mónkáböZi ahol az élösztévéK^kek (tök) egyfazisö egyem- vagy többeres vezetékek. 7: Áz W, Igésiv'pöfttök hánnelylke szerinti villamos elosztó kapcsolótábla feszültség alatt iilítyezétékékéb végzendő JitygkálíbZ, aboi a villamos elosztó készülék az alábbiak közöl v&amp;o kiválasztva; kapCSölékáSkttléks! kapesoitMbla, siosztérábla, kapcsolószekrény, eksszfószekrény és ezeknek a kombinációi, &amp; Villamos rendszer, amely magába foglalta az 1*7. ígébypilítök báltttelyíke szériáit, feszültség alatt álló vezetékeken végzendő munkához való villamos elosztó kapcsolótáblát, V. FislyamatöS üzemű tápégység^féndszer, amely magába foglalja a C Igénypont szerinti, feszültség alatt álló vezetékeken: végzendő ntaakábóz való villamos óiOszfő Mpesolóiábíát.