WO2019122539A1

WO2019122539A1 - Modular electrical switching device

Info

Publication number: WO2019122539A1
Application number: PCT/FR2017/000258
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christian Benoit; Alexandre CHAMAGNE; Benjamin Charles; Dominique Werner
Original assignee: Hager-Electro Sas
Priority date: 2017-12-22
Filing date: 2017-12-22
Publication date: 2019-06-27
Also published as: CN213752600U

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular electrical switching device comprising: - a first, phase line comprising fixed and mobile contacts (4); - a second, neutral line comprising fixed and mobile contacts (4); - a electronic circuit powered between the first line and the second line; - a tripping lock (8) comprising an operating member (9); - an additional switch (11) provided between the first line and the electronic circuit, configured to adopt an open position (P1) and a closed position; - an actuating mechanism (12) for actuating the additional switch (11) between the open position (P1) and the closed position, connected to the mobile contact (4) of the first line and/or of the second line by a first end (13) of the actuating mechanism (12), and connected to the additional switch (11) by a second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12).

Description

Switching electrical appliance of modular type

The present invention relates to the field of modular type electrical switching apparatus, such as switches or circuit breakers.

A modular type electrical switching apparatus comprises, in known manner, at least one first phase line comprising a first connection terminal and a pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts, a second neutral line also comprising a first connection terminal and a second connection terminal and possibly a pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts, a release lock, actuated by an operating member and comprising a movable contact holder on which is mounted the (s) contact (s) mobile (s). An electrical appliance of modular type has, moreover, a width of a module, that is to say that the distance between the two side faces of the housing of the electrical appliance corresponds to a normalized value, called module. This type of electrical apparatus may also include an electronic circuit, powered between the first phase line and the second neutral line, and an additional switch, arranged between the first phase line and the electronic circuit, which can adopt a closing position and an opening position depending on the position of the trigger lock. In particular, on the one hand, in the open position, the fixed contact (s) and the mobile contact (s) of the first and / or second lines are at a distance each other, in a so-called decoupled position, and secondly, in the closed position, the fixed contact (s) and the movable contact (s) ) first and / or second lines are in contact, in a so-called coupled position. Such an additional switch protects the electrical apparatus during dielectric tests and also allows the power supply of the electronic circuit to be interrupted if necessary when the fixed contact and the movable contact are configured, in the decoupled position.

Modular-type electrical appliances incorporating an additional switch are known from the prior art and, in particular, publications EP 2 085 998 A1 and EP 2 455 961 A1. More particularly, document EP 2 086 998 A1 discloses an electrical appliance of US Pat. modular type cutoff having a width of two modules and comprising an additional switch actuated by the contact carrier and being under the form of a flexible conductive rod comprising an end fixed to the printed circuit board of the electronic circuit and a free end which can be driven in contact with a conductive pin connected to the electronic circuit when the contacts are closed or opened. This device has the disadvantage of being bulky and is thus difficult to integrate into a more compact electrical appliance and in particular a modular electrical appliance having a width of a module.

EP 2 455 961 A1 discloses a differential circuit breaker comprising an additional switch connected in series between the actuator of the differential protection device and the first phase line and which is in the form of a spring provided with an end which extends towards the movable contact, to be in contact with the movable contact, only when the movable contact and the fixed contact are coupled. This device has the disadvantage of impacting the parameters of the lock, which is undesirable

The object of the present invention is to overcome these drawbacks by proposing a modular electrical switchgear, the design of which makes it possible to integrate an additional switch without increasing the size of the electrical apparatus and, preferably, without affecting the parameters of the lock. trigger.

To this end, the present invention relates to a modular type electrical switching apparatus comprising at least:

a first phase line comprising at least a first connection terminal and a second connection terminal, and a pair of contacts respectively fixed and mobile,

a second neutral line comprising at least a first connection terminal and a second connection terminal, and optionally, if applicable, a pair of contacts respectively fixed and mobile,

an electronic circuit adapted and intended to be powered between the first phase line and the second neutral line,

a trigger lock comprising an operating member for manually actuating the trigger lock and comprising a movable contact holder on which the movable contact (s) is mounted,

an additional switch, arranged between the first phase line and the electronic circuit, suitable and intended to adopt, on the one hand, a line open position, when the fixed contact (s) and the moving contact (s) are at a distance from one another in a decoupled position, and other on the other hand, a closed position when the contact (s) and the moving contact (s) are in contact in a coupled position,

electrical apparatus characterized in that it comprises an actuating mechanism of the additional switch, adapted and intended to actuate the additional switch between the open position and the closed position, the actuating mechanism being, on the one hand, mechanically connected to the movable contact of the first phase line and / or optionally, if appropriate, of the second neutral line, by a first end of the actuating mechanism and, secondly, mechanically connected to the additional switch by a second end of the actuating mechanism, and in that the actuating mechanism is of insulating material.

The invention will be better understood, thanks to the following description, which relates to several preferred embodiments, given by way of non-limiting examples, and explained with reference to the appended diagrammatic drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1 and 2 are respectively side and perspective views of a trigger lock of an electrical appliance according to the invention in a first embodiment, the casing of which has been partially removed, which incorporates a switch; additional configured in open position,

FIG. 3 is a side view of the trigger lock of an electrical appliance according to the invention in the first embodiment, the casing of which has been partially removed, which incorporates an additional switch configured in the closed position,

FIGS. 4 and 5 are respectively side and perspective views of a trigger lock of an electrical apparatus according to the invention in a second variant embodiment, the envelope of which has been partially removed, which incorporates a switch; additional configured in open position,

FIGS. 6 and 7 are views similar to the views of FIGS. 4 and 5 in which a fourth conductive element interacting with a test push button is shown,

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the trigger lock of an electrical appliance according to the invention in the second variant embodiment which integrates an additional switch configured in the open position and is covered with its envelope,

FIG. 9 is a side view of the trigger lock of an electrical appliance according to the invention in the second embodiment, the casing of which has been partially removed, which incorporates an additional switch configured in the closed position,

- Figure 10 is a view of an electrical diagram of the electrical apparatus according to the invention of the type of differential circuit breaker.

A modular type electrical switching apparatus comprises at least:

a first phase line L comprising at least a first connection terminal 1 and a second connection terminal 2, and a pair of respectively fixed and mobile contacts 4 (FIG. 10),

a second neutral line N comprising at least a first connection terminal 5 and a second connection terminal 6, and, optionally, if appropriate, a pair of fixed and movable contacts 4 respectively, (FIG. 10),

an electronic circuit 7 adapted and intended to be powered between the first line L of phase and the second line N of neutral (FIG. 10),

a trigger lock 8 comprising an operating member 9 for manually actuating the release lock 8 and comprising a movable contact holder 10 on which the mobile contact (s) 4 are (are) mounted (s) 4 (Figures 1 to 9),

an additional switch 11, arranged between the first phase line N and the electronic circuit 7, adapted and intended to adopt, on the one hand, an open position PI, when the fixed contact (s) 3 and the movable contact (s) 4 are at a distance from one another in a decoupled position, and secondly, a closing position P2, when the contact (s) ( 3) and the movable contact (s) 4 are in contact in a coupled position (FIGS. 1 to 9),

According to the invention, the electrical apparatus is characterized in that it comprises an actuating mechanism 12 of the additional switch 11, adapted and intended to actuate the additional switch 11 between the open position PI (FIGS. , 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8) and the closed position P2 (FIGS. 3 and 9), the actuating mechanism 12 being, on the one hand, mechanically connected to the moving contact 4 of the first line L of phase and / or, optionally, where appropriate, second line N of neutral, by a first end 13 of the actuating mechanism 12 and, secondly, mechanically connected to the additional switch 11 by a second end 14 of the actuating mechanism 12, and in that the mechanism of actuation 12 is made of insulating material (Figures 1 to 9).

Advantageously, the actuating mechanism 12 makes it possible to transmit the movement of the movable contact 4 to the additional switch 11. The actuating mechanism 12 is made of insulating material, preferably of plastic material, of the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyoxymethylene (POM) type. ) or polycaprolactam (PA6), the latter does not conduct electricity, only a transmission of motions by mechanical coupling is thus possible. Furthermore, the addition of this actuating mechanism 12 makes it possible to move the additional switch 11 into a part of the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18 which is remote relative to the moving contact. 4. This arrangement thus contributes to the compactness of the electrical apparatus according to the invention and allows in particular to integrate the additional switch 11 in a modular type of electrical appliance having the width of a module, as detailed below.

Thus, when the movable contact 4 is in contact with the fixed contact 3, the additional switch 11 is arranged in the closed position P2, thanks to the actuating mechanism 12, and when the movable contact 4 is at a distance from the fixed contact 3 , the additional switch 11 is arranged in the opening position P1, thanks to the actuating mechanism 12. This results as well as in the coupled position of the trigger lock 8, and therefore in the closed position P2 of the additional switch 11, the electronic circuit 7 is advantageously powered, while in the decoupled position of the trigger lock 8, and therefore in the opening position PI of the additional switch 11, the electronic circuit 7 is not powered.

The electrical switchgear according to the invention is of the modular type, and thus has a width of a module, that is to say that the distance between the two lateral faces (not shown) of the envelope of the Electrical apparatus (not shown) corresponds to a normalized value, called module. In addition, the width of the two lateral faces of the envelope of the trigger lock 18 is slightly smaller than the value of a module to be integrated in the envelope of the device (Figure 8), and is for example equal to 15.5 millimeters. According to a first variant embodiment according to the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 10, the additional switch 11 comprises first resilient return means 15 which are pivotally mounted by a pivot connection 16 around a first projecting stud 17 an envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18, the first elastic return means 15 comprising a first end 19 electrically connected to the first line L of phase via a first element protruding conductor 20 of the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the trigger lock 18 and a second end 21 adapted and intended to be, firstly, electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 at the level of least a first contact interface 22 in the closed position P2 by means of a second conductive element 23 protruding from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the release lock 18, and secondly, electrically disconnected from the second conductive member 23, in the open position PI.

In this configuration, the first resilient return means 15 conductors can pivot through the pivot connection 16 around the first projecting stud 17 of the envelope of the electrical device or the envelope of the trigger lock 18. Moreover, the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 can be deformed, to allow its displacement is thus pass the additional switch 11 of the first position PI to the second position P2 and vice versa. Thus, on the one hand, in the open position PI, the first end 19 is in permanent contact with the first conductive element 20, and the second end 21 and the second conductive element 23 are at a distance from one of the other, therefore the electronic circuit 7 is not electrically connected to the first phase line L and is not powered (Figures 1 and 2). On the other hand, in the closed position P2, the first end 19 is in permanent contact with the first conductive element 20, and the first contact interface 22 of the second end 21 and the second conductive element 23 are in contact with each other. therefore, in this case the electronic circuit 7 is electrically connected to the first phase line L and is powered (Figure 3). As a result, the second conductive element 23 and the second end 21 forms a pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts of the additional switch 11.

According to a non-limiting feature of the first embodiment, the second end 14 of the actuating mechanism 12 is mechanically connected to the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 to drive the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 in the direction of the second conductive element 23, when the respectively mobile and fixed contacts 3 move from a decoupled position to a coupled position or to separate the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 of the second conductive element 23, when the contacts respectively moving and fixed 3 go from a coupled position to a decoupled position.

Thus, the movement of the movable contact 4 causes the movement of the actuating mechanism 12, which, being mechanically connected by its second end 14 to the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15, causes the movement of the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 by deformation thereof, so that it comes into contact with the second conductive element 23 or on the contrary that it deviates from the second conductive element 23. As a result, in this configuration, that the additional switch has no impact on the parameters of the trigger lock 8, that is to say that it does not impact the opening distance between the contact (s) (s) mobile (s) 4 and fixed (s) 3 of the first and / or second lines L, N, neither the contact force, nor the breaking performance.

Preferably according to the first embodiment, the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 may be adapted and intended to be electrically connected to the second conductive member 23 at said first contact interface 22 and further at a second contact interface 24 that includes the second end 21, in the closed position P2.

Advantageously, the fact of providing a first contact interface 22 and a second contact interface 24 at the second end 21 avoids prematurely deteriorating the second end 21 of the first elastic return means 15 and the second conductive member 23. in one place, following repeated opening and closing cycles of the additional switch 11. It As a result, the endurance of the electrical switchgear according to the invention is improved compared to the electrical appliances of the prior art.

Preferably according to the first embodiment, the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24 of the second end 21 may be arranged relative to one another so as to successively establish the electrical connection / disconnection with the second conductive element 23.

Advantageously, in this configuration, the closed position P2 and the open position PI are established in two stages and in a desynchronized manner. During the transition from the open position PI to the closed position P2, the first contact interface 22 comes into contact with the second conductive element 23, then the second contact interface 24 comes into contact with the second conductive element 23. During the transition from the closed position P2 to the open position PI, firstly, the second contact interface 24 moves away from the second conductive element 23, then the first contact interface 22 moves away from the second element driver 23.

Preferably according to the first embodiment, the second end 21 may have the shape of a hook having a first portion 21a, extending parallel to the inner wall 18 'of the envelope of the apparatus or envelope of the trigger lock 18, to which is mechanically connected the second end 14 of the actuating mechanism 12 and a second deformable inclined portion 21b, extending transversely to the inner wall 18 'of the casing of the apparatus or the housing of the lock 18, carrying the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24.

Preferably in this case, the second end 14 of the actuating mechanism 12 comprises a protruding guide element 50 and an end stop 51 between which the first portion 21a is disposed in abutment in the open position P1 (FIGS. 1 and 2). , the guide element 50 comprising an upper face and an inclined face, the inclined face being adapted and intended to guide the first portion 21a bearing towards the upper face, during the transition from the first position PI to the second position P2 to translational displacement of the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24 along the second conductive element 23.

Advantageously, during the transition from the open position PI to the open position P2, the first portion 21a slides on the inclined face in the direction opposite to the direction of movement of the actuating mechanism 12, which allows progressively raise the first portion 21a relative to its initial position in the open position PI, until resting against the upper face (Figure 3). During this passage, the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24 are in contact with the second conducting element 23, and the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24 are displaced in translation along the second element This particularly advantageous configuration makes it possible to scrape the surface of the second conducting element 23, in particular at the places where the latter is in contact with the first contact interface 22 and the second contact interface 24, to clean the second conducting element 23. As a result, the endurance of the electrical switchgear according to the invention is improved compared to the electrical appliances of the prior art.

Preferably according to the first embodiment, the first elastic return means 15 consist of a spring comprising a plurality of turns 25 wound around the first projecting stud 17, the plurality of coiled turns 25 forming the pivot connection 16.

Preferably according to the first variant embodiment, the electrical apparatus may comprise a push button 26 for mobile testing between a supported position and an initial position and configured to actuate second elastic return means 27 drivers pivotally mounted by a pivot connection 27 'around a second projecting stud 28 of the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18, the second elastic return means 27 comprising a first end 29 electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 via the second conductive element 23 and a second end 30 adapted and intended to be, on the one hand, electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 in the supported position via a third conductive element 31 protruding from the envelope of the electrical appliance or the envelope of the lock of tripping 18 and, on the other hand, electrically disconnected from the third conductive element 31 in the initial position.

This pushbutton 26 makes it possible to test the differential function, when the electric apparatus according to the invention is a differential switch or a differential circuit breaker, as described below, by passing a test current in the electronic circuit 7 which would be substantially identical. to that which would cross the electronic circuit 7, in case of differential defect. To do this, the push button 26 is actuated to move it from the initial position to the pressed position and allow the flow of this current in the electronic circuit 7.

According to a second variant embodiment according to the invention illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, the additional switch 11 comprises a conductive switching element 32 pivotally mounted by a pivot connection 33 around a first projecting stud 34 of an envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trip lock 18, the pivot connection 33 being further electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 via a first conductive element 35 projecting from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the trip lock 18, the switching element 32 comprising a first end 36 adapted and intended to be, firstly, electrically connected to the first line L phase to level of a first contact interface 37 in the closed position P2 by means of a second conductive element 38 protruding from the envelope of the elec 3 or the casing of the trigger lock 18 and secondly, electrically disconnected from the second conductive member 38 in the open position PI.

In this configuration, the switching element 32 can pivot through the pivot connection 33 around the first projecting stud 34 of the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18, to switch the switch additional 11 of the first position PI to the second position P2, and conversely and more particularly to move the first end 36 without deformation thereof. Thus, on the one hand, in the opening position PI, the pivot connection 33 is permanently electrically connected to the first conductive element 35 and the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 are at a distance from each other therefore, the electronic circuit 7 is not connected to the first phase line L and is therefore not not powered (Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7). On the other hand, in the closed position P2, the pivot connection 33 is permanently electrically connected to the first conductive element 35, and the first contact interface 37 of the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 are in contact with each other. therefore, in this case the electronic circuit 7 is connected to the first phase line L and is powered (Figure 9). As a result, the first conductive element 35 and the first end 36 form a pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts of the additional switch 11.

According to a non-limiting feature of the second embodiment, the switching element 32 comprises a second end 39 adapted and intended to be, firstly, electrically connected to the first line L phase at a second interface contact 40 in the closed position P2 by means of a third conductive element 41 protruding from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18 electrically connected to the second conductive element 38 and on the other hand, to be electrically disconnected from the third conductive element 41 in the open position PL

Thus, on the one hand, in the open position PI, the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 are at a distance from each other, likewise the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 are at a distance from each other, therefore, the electronic circuit 7 is not connected to the first phase line L and is not powered (Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7). On the other hand, in the closed position P2, the first contact interface 37 of the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 are in contact, likewise, the second contact interface 40 of the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 are in contact, therefore, in this case, the electronic circuit 7 is connected to the first phase line L and is powered (Figure 9). The first conductive element 35 and the first end 36 form a first pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts of the additional switch 11 and the second conductive element 38 and the second end 39 form a second pair of respectively fixed and movable contacts of the additional switch 11. In this configuration, the additional switch 11 may comprise two contact zones that are separate and distinct from one another, since these are located at two distinct and separate conductive elements 38, 41, electrically connected only to each other. This arrangement makes it possible to avoid prematurely deteriorating the contact interfaces 37, 40, following repeated opening and closing cycles of the additional switch 11. This results in a better endurance of the electrical switchgear according to the invention. compared to electrical appliances of the prior art.

Preferentially according to a specificity of this feature according to the second embodiment, the second end 14 of the actuating mechanism 12 is mechanically connected to the first end 36 and the second end 39 of the switching element 32 to respectively drive the first end 36 of the switching element 32 in the direction of the second conductive element 38 and the second end 39 of the switching element 32 towards the third conductive element 41, when the respectively mobile and fixed contacts 3 move from one position decoupled to a coupled position or to separate respectively the first end 36 of the second conductive member 38 and the second end 39 of the third conductive member 41, when the respectively movable 4 and fixed contacts 3 pass from a coupled position to a decoupled position.

Thus, the movement of the movable contact 4 causes the movement of the actuating mechanism 12, which, being mechanically connected by its second end 14 to the first end 36 and the second end 39 of the switching element 32, causes the movement simultaneous of the first end 36 and the second end 39 of the switching element 32, through the pivot connection 33, so that they come into contact respectively with the second conductive element 38 and the third conductive element 41 or, on the contrary, that they deviate from the second conductive element 38 and the third conductive element 41.

Preferably according to the second variant embodiment of the invention, in the open position PI, the distance between the first interface 37 of the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 is less than the distance between the second interface 40 of the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 to successively establish the electrical connection with the second conductive element 38, then with the third conductive element 41, or the disconnection with the third conductive element 41, then with the second conductive element 38.

Advantageously, during the transition from the open position P1 to the closed position P2, the first contact interface 37 of the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 first establish contact with each other, then the second contact interface 40 of the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 make contact with each other. During the transition from the closed position P2 to the open position P1, the first contact interface 37 of the first end 36 and the second conductive element 38 first break the contact between them, then the second contact interface 40 of the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 in turn break the contact between them. Thus, since the second contact interface 40 of the second end 39 and the third conductive element 41 lastly connect and disconnect, these are not deteriorated because no electric arc is established. This arrangement makes it possible to preserve the integrity of the second contact interface 40 and the third conductive element 41.

Preferably according to the second embodiment of the invention, the first contact interface 37 and / or the second contact interface 40 consists of a boss or a conductive rivet, preferably made of silver or copper alloy.

Preferably according to the second embodiment of the invention, the switching element 32 consists of a curved leaf spring so that the first end 36 and the second end 39 are substantially facing each other. .

Preferably according to the second embodiment of the invention, the electrical apparatus may comprise a pushbutton 42 for mobile testing between a supported position and an initial position and configured to actuate elastic return means 43 conductors pivotally mounted by a pivot connection 43 'around a second projecting stud 44 of an envelope of the electrical apparatus or of the envelope of the release lock 18, the elastic return means 43 comprising a first end 45 electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 by the intermediate of the first conductive element 35 and a second end 46 adapted and intended to be, firstly, electrically connected to the electronic circuit 7 in the position supported by means of a fourth conductive element 49 protruding from the envelope of the device electrical or the casing of the trigger lock 18 and, secondly, electrically disconnected from the fourth conductive element 49 in the initial position.

This pushbutton 42 makes it possible to test the differential function of the electronic circuit 7, when the electrical apparatus according to the invention is a differential switch or a differential circuit breaker as described below, by passing a test current in the electronic circuit 7 which would be substantially identical to that which would cross the electronic circuit 7, in case of differential defect. To do this, the push button 42 is actuated to move it from the initial position to the pressed position.

Preferably, according to the first variant embodiment and the second variant embodiment, the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trigger lock 18 comprises means for translational guiding 47 of the actuating mechanism 12 of the additional switch. 11 slidably mounted with a guiding member of the actuating mechanism 12.

Advantageously, in this configuration, the actuating mechanism 12 is guided along the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the trigger lock 18.

Preferably, these translation guiding means 47 of the actuating mechanism 12 consist of a through groove (FIGS.

I to 7 and 9) or not, wherein a projecting stud (not shown) forming said guide member of the actuating mechanism 12 is slidably mounted.

Preferably, according to the first variant embodiment and the second variant embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, said trigger lock 8 and the additional switch 11 are included in said envelope of the release lock 18 to form a compact subset of the 'electrical appliance.

It advantageously results that the additional switch

It can be easily integrated during the manufacture of the electrical switchgear. Indeed, in this configuration, the trigger lock 8 and the additional switch 11 form a monoblock subassembly. In this case, this subset is all the easier to integrate into an electrical appliance of the modular type of the width of a module. Preferably, according to the first variant embodiment and the second variant embodiment, the first end 13 of the actuating mechanism 12 is mechanically connected to the moving contact 4 of the first phase line L and / or, optionally, if appropriate, to the second line N of neutral, by a mechanical connection of pivot type 48.

Preferably, when the second line N of neutral also comprises a pair of contacts respectively fixed 3 and mobile 4, and the trigger lock 8 comprises the movable contact 4, then the actuating mechanism 12 is preferably mechanically connected to the movable contact 4 of the second line N of neutral (Figures 2, 5, 7 and 8). Preferably, the fixed and movable contacts 3 and 4 respectively of the second neutral line N are also mounted on the mobile contact carrier 10. Thus, the respectively fixed and movable contacts 4 of the first line L of phase are actuated simultaneously with the contacts, respectively fixed 3 and mobile 4 of the second line N of neutral.

Preferably and alternatively (not shown), when the second line N of neutral does not comprise a pair of contacts respectively fixed and movable, but is formed by a single cable and that only the first line L of phase comprises a pair of contacts respectively fixed 3 and mobile 4, then the actuating mechanism 12 is preferably mechanically connected to the moving contact 4 of the first line L of phase.

Preferably, the movable contact 4 comprises a metal insert 4a, a portion of which is covered by an insulating overmoulding 4b. In this case, the actuating mechanism 12 is preferably mechanically connected to the moving contact 4 at the insulating overmolding 4b (Figures 1 to 9).

According to the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the invention, the connection terminals 1, 2, 5, 6 may consist of a metal cage or a cable.

Preferably, on the one hand, the first connection terminal 1 of the first phase line L is suitable and intended to be connected to a load (not shown) and the second connection terminal 2 of the first phase line L is capable of and intended to be connected to an electrical distribution source (not shown) and, on the other hand, the first connection terminal 5 of the first neutral line N is adapted and intended to be connected to a load and the second connection terminal 6 of the first neutral line N is adapted and intended to be connected to an electrical distribution source. In this case and as illustrated in Figure 10, the electronic circuit 7 is connected upstream of the fixed and movable contacts 3, 4, that is to say on the side of the connection to the power distribution source. More particularly, the electronic circuit 7 is connected, on the one hand, to the first line L of phase between the second connection terminal 2 and the fixed contact 3 and, on the other hand, to the second line N of neutral between the second terminal 6 and the fixed contact 3.

However, according to an alternative variant, not shown, the first connection terminal 1 of the first line L of phase is adapted and intended to be connected to an electrical distribution source and the second connection terminal 2 of the first line L of phase is suitable and intended to be connected to a load and, on the other hand, the first connection terminal 5 of the first neutral line N is adapted and intended to be connected to an electrical distribution source and the second connection terminal 6 the first neutral line N is suitable and intended to be connected to a load. In this case, the electronic circuit 7 is connected downstream of the fixed and movable contacts 3, 4, that is to say on the opposite side to the connection to the electrical distribution source. More particularly, the electronic circuit 7 is connected, on the one hand, to the first line L of phase between the second connection terminal 2 and the fixed contact 3 and, on the other hand, to the second line N of neutral between the second terminal 6 and the fixed contact 3.

According to another alternative variant, not shown, the first connection terminal 1 of the first phase line L is adapted and intended to be connected to a load and the second connection terminal 2 of the first phase line L is suitable and intended for be connected to an electrical distribution source and, secondly, the first connection terminal 5 of the first neutral line N is adapted and intended to be connected to a load and the second connection terminal 6 of the first line N Neutral is suitable and intended to be connected to an electrical distribution source. In this case, the electronic circuit 7 is connected downstream of the fixed and mobile contacts 3, 4, that is to say on the side of the connection to the electrical distribution source. More particularly, the circuit 7 is connected, on the one hand, to the first phase line L between the first connection terminal 1 and the moving contact 4 and, on the other hand, to the second neutral line N between the first connection terminal 5 and the moving contact 4.

According to the first variant embodiment and the second embodiment of the invention, the electrical apparatus according to the invention may comprise an electronic card which comprises the electronic circuit 7.

According to the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the invention, the conductive elements 23, 31, 35, 38, 41, 49 may each consist of a metal rod.

The electrical switchgear according to the invention may consist of a switch.

Preferably, according to the first variant embodiment and the second variant embodiment, the electronic circuit 7 can be configured to perform a differential function and the electrical switching device is in this case a differential switch or a differential circuit breaker, of which only the first Line L phase is protected against differential type faults.

When the electrical switchgear according to the invention is a differential switch, the latter comprises an electric transformer 54 associated with the electronic circuit 7 configured to perform a differential function, the first electronic circuit 7 being electrically connected to a control member (no shown), for controlling an electromagnetic actuator 55, which is adapted and adapted to actuate the trigger lock 8 to switch the release lock 8 from the coupled position to the decoupled position, in the event of a differential defect.

When the electrical switchgear according to the invention is a differential circuit breaker and as shown in Figure 10, the latter comprises, in addition to the electrical transformer 54 described above, a magnetic trigger member 56 adapted and intended to actuate the lock trigger 8 to switch the release lock 8 from the coupled position to the decoupled position, in the event of a short-circuit fault, and a thermal trip member 57 adapted and adapted to actuate the release lock 8 to switch the lock 8 of the position coupled to the decoupled position, in case prolonged overcurrent fault. In this case, the first phase line L comprises the magnetic tripping member 56 and the thermal tripping member 57.

Preferably, the magnetic triggering member 56 comprises a coil surrounding a movable core that can actuate the trigger lock 8.

The thermal tripping member 57 may consist of a bimetallic strip connected or not to the moving contact 4 by a flexible conductor (not shown) such as a conductive braid, and adapted and intended to actuate the trigger lock 8 under the effect of bimetal deformation.

Advantageously, the bimetal is deformed by direct or indirect heating of the flexible conductor.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications are possible, particularly from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. Modular-type switching electrical apparatus comprising at least:

a first line (L) of phase comprising at least a first connection terminal (1) and a second connection terminal (2), and a pair of respectively fixed (3) and mobile contacts

(4)

a second neutral line (N) comprising at least a first connection terminal (5) and a second connection terminal (6), and optionally, if appropriate, a pair of respectively fixed (3) and movable (4) contacts; )

an electronic circuit (7) adapted and intended to be powered between the first line (L) of phase and the second line (N) of neutral,

- A release lock (8) comprising an actuating member (9) for manually actuating the release lock (8) and comprising a movable contact holder (10) on which is mounted the movable contact (s) (s). ) (4),

an additional switch (11), arranged between the first phase line (N) and the electronic circuit (7), adapted and intended to adopt, on the one hand, an open position (PI), when the ) fixed contact (s) (3) and the movable contact (s) (4) are at a distance from one another in a decoupled position, and secondly, a closing position (P2), when the fixed contact (s) (3) and the moving contact (s) (4) are in contact in a coupled position,

electrical apparatus characterized in that it comprises an actuating mechanism (12) of the additional switch (11), adapted and adapted to actuate the additional switch (11) between the open position (PI) and the closed position ( P2), the actuating mechanism (12) being, on the one hand, mechanically connected to the movable contact (4) of the first line (L) of phase and / or, optionally, if appropriate, of the second line (N ) of neutral, by a first end (13) of the actuating mechanism (12) and, secondly, mechanically connected to the additional switch (11) by a second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12), and in that the actuating mechanism (12) is made of insulating material.

2. Electrical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the additional switch (11) comprises first elastic return means (15) conductors pivotally mounted by a pivot connection (16) around a first projecting stud (17) d an envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the release lock (18), the first elastic return means (15) comprising a first end (19) electrically connected to the first line (L) of phase by via a first conductive element (20) protruding from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or from the casing of the release lock (18) and a second end (21) suitable and intended to be on the one hand, electrically connected to the electronic circuit (7) at at least one first contact interface (22) in the closed position (P2) via a second conductive element (23) projecting from the e the electrical device or the casing of the trip lock (18), and secondly electrically disconnected from the second conductive element (23) in the open position (PI).

3. Electrical apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12) is mechanically connected to the second end (21) of the first elastic return means (15) to drive the second end (21) of the first elastic return means (15) towards the second conductive element (23), when the movable (4) and fixed (3) contacts respectively move from a decoupled position to a coupled position or to separate the second end (21) of the first elastic return means (15) of the second conductive element (23), when the respectively movable (4) and fixed (3) contacts pass from a coupled position to a decoupled position.

4. Electrical device according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the second end (21) of the first elastic return means (15) is adapted and intended to be electrically connected to the second conductive element (23) to level of said first contact interface (22) and, in addition, at a second contact interface (24) that includes the second end (21), in the closed position (P2).

Electrical device according to claim 4, characterized in that the first contact interface (22) and the second contact interface (24) of the second end (21) are arranged relatively one by relative to the other so as to successively establish the electrical connection / disconnection with the second conductive element (23).

6. Electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the second end (21) has the shape of a hook having a first portion (21a) extending parallel to the inner wall (18). ') of the casing of the apparatus or the casing of the trigger lock (18), to which is mechanically connected the second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12) and a second portion (21b ) inclined deformable, extending transversely to the inner wall (18 ') of the envelope of the apparatus or the envelope of the lock (18), carrying the first contact interface (22) and the second interface of contact (24).

Electrical apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12) comprises a protruding guide element (50) and an end stop (51) between which the first portion (2) la) is disposed in abutment in the open position (PI), the guide element (50) comprising an upper face and an inclined face, the inclined face being adapted and intended to guide the first portion (21a) which is pressing towards the upper face, during the passage from the first position (PI) to the second position (P2) to move in translation the first contact interface (22) and the second contact interface (24) along the second element conductor (23).

8. Electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the first elastic return means (15) consist of a spring comprising a plurality of turns

(25) wound around the first projecting stud (17), the plurality of coils (25) wound forming the pivot connection (16).

9. Electrical device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a push button

(26) movable test between a supported position and an initial position and configured to actuate second elastic return means (27) pivotally mounted conductors by a pivot connection (27 ') around a second projecting stud (28) of the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the release lock (18), the second elastic return means (27) comprising a first end (29) connected electrically to the electronic circuit (7) via the second conductive element (23) and a second end (30) adapted and intended to be, on the one hand, electrically connected to the electronic circuit (7) in the position supported by the intermediate of a third conductive element (31) protruding from the casing of the electrical apparatus or from the casing of the release lock (18) and, on the other hand, electrically disconnected from the third conductive element (31) in the initial position.

Electrical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the additional switch (11) comprises a switching element (32) which is pivotally connected by a pivot connection (33) around a first projecting stud (34) of a enclosure of the electrical apparatus or casing of the trip lock (18), the pivot connection (33) being further electrically connected to the electronic circuit (7) via a first conductive element (35) protruding from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the release lock (18), the switching element (32) comprising a first end (36) adapted and intended to be, on the one hand, electrically connected to the first line (L) of phase at a first contact interface (37) in the closed position (P2) via a second conductive element (38) projecting from the envelope of the electric device that or the envelope of the release lock (18) and, secondly, electrically disconnected from the second conductive member (38) in the open position (P1).

Electrical apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the switching element (32) comprises a second end

(39) adapted and intended to be, on the one hand, electrically connected to the first line (L) of phase at a second contact interface

(40) in the closed position (P2) via a third conductive element (41) projecting from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the envelope of the trip lock (18), electrically connected to the second conductive element (38) and, on the other hand, to be electrically disconnected from the third conductive element (41) in the open position (P1).

. 12. Electrical apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the second end (14) of the actuating mechanism (12) is mechanically connected to the first end (36) and the second end (39) of the element. switching (32) to drive respectively the first end (36) of the switching element (32) towards the second conductive element (38) and the second end (39) of the switching element (32) towards the third conductive element (41). when respectively the movable (4) and fixed (3) contacts move from a decoupled position to a coupled position or to separate respectively the first end (36) of the second conductive element (38) and the second end (39) of the third conductive element (41), when the respectively movable (4) and fixed (3) contacts move from a coupled position to a decoupled position.

Electrical apparatus according to one of claims 11 to 12, characterized in that in the open position (PI) the distance between the first interface (37) of the first end (36) and the second conductive element ( 38) is smaller than the distance between the second interface (40) of the second end (39) and the third conductive element (41) for successively establishing the electrical connection with the second conductive element (38) and then with the third conductive element ( 41) or disconnection with the third conductive element (41) and then with the second conductive element (38).

Electrical device according to one of Claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the first contact interface (37) and / or the second contact interface (40) consists of a boss or a conductive rivet. preferably silver or copper alloy.

Electrical apparatus according to one of Claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the switching element (32) consists of a curved leaf spring so that the first end (36) and the second end ( 39) are substantially facing each other.

16. Electrical device according to any one of claims 10 to 15, characterized in that it comprises a test push button (42) movable between a supported position and an initial position and configured to actuate resilient return means (43). ) conductors pivotally mounted by a pivot connection (43 ') around a second projecting stud (44) of an envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the release lock (18), the elastic return means (43) having a first end (45) electrically connected to the electronic circuit (7) via the first conductive element (35) and a second end (46) adapted and intended to be, firstly, electrically connected to the electronic circuit (7) in the position supported by means of a fourth conductive element (49) projecting from the envelope of the electrical apparatus or envelope of the trip lock (18) and, on the other hand, electrically disconnected from the fourth conductive element (49) in the initial position.

Electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the envelope of the electrical apparatus or the casing of the trigger lock (18) comprises means for translational guiding (47) of the actuating mechanism (12) of the additional switch (1 1) slidably mounted with a guiding member of the actuating mechanism (12).

18. Electrical apparatus according to claim 17, characterized in that translation guide means (47) of the actuating mechanism (12) consist of a groove or not in which a projecting stud forming said guide member of the mechanism of actuation (12) is slidably mounted.

Electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that said release lock (8) and the additional switch (11) are included in said casing of the release lock (18) to form a sub-slot. compact set of the electrical apparatus.

20. Electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the first end (13) of the actuating mechanism (12) is mechanically connected to the movable contact by a pivot-type mechanical connection (48).

21. Electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the electronic circuit (7) is configured to perform a differential function.