EP3459100B1 - Breaker device intended to be linked to an electrical circuit - Google Patents

Breaker device intended to be linked to an electrical circuit Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3459100B1
EP3459100B1 EP17731196.6A EP17731196A EP3459100B1 EP 3459100 B1 EP3459100 B1 EP 3459100B1 EP 17731196 A EP17731196 A EP 17731196A EP 3459100 B1 EP3459100 B1 EP 3459100B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
conductive portion
chamber
initiator
electrical
cut
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17731196.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3459100A1 (en
Inventor
Gilles GONTHIER
Frédéric MARLIN
Jean-François De Palma
Rémy OUAIDA
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ArianeGroup SAS
Original Assignee
ArianeGroup SAS
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Publication of EP3459100A1 publication Critical patent/EP3459100A1/en
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Publication of EP3459100B1 publication Critical patent/EP3459100B1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/04—Fuses, i.e. expendable parts of the protective device, e.g. cartridges
    • H01H85/05—Component parts thereof
    • H01H85/055—Fusible members
    • H01H85/08—Fusible members characterised by the shape or form of the fusible member
    • H01H85/10—Fusible members characterised by the shape or form of the fusible member with constriction for localised fusing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H39/00—Switching devices actuated by an explosion produced within the device and initiated by an electric current
    • H01H39/006—Opening by severing a conductor
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/0241—Structural association of a fuse and another component or apparatus
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/04—Fuses, i.e. expendable parts of the protective device, e.g. cartridges
    • H01H85/05—Component parts thereof
    • H01H85/055—Fusible members
    • H01H2085/0555—Input terminal connected to a plurality of output terminals, e.g. multielectrode
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/0039—Means for influencing the rupture process of the fusible element

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for interrupting the current flowing in an electrical circuit and to a secure electrical system comprising such a device.
  • the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a cut-off device according to claim 1
  • the pyrotechnic initiator When activated, the pyrotechnic initiator is configured to produce pressurizing gas to pressurize the pressurizing chamber.
  • the pressurizing gas exerts pressure on the movable cut-off element in order to set it in motion.
  • the movable cut-off element thus set in motion is configured to passing the device into the second configuration in which the conductive portion is disconnected, that is to say in a configuration in which the circulation of an electric current in the conductive portion is interrupted.
  • the electric current flowing in the electric circuit is cut.
  • the invention provides a cut-off device enabling rapid reliable electrical cut-off in a circuit in the event of an overcurrent of the electric current and thus preventing damage to an electric device supplied by said circuit. More precisely, during normal operation of the system, the fuse element is on, the voltage across the terminals of the relatively low fuse element and the current passing through the ignition device of the pyrotechnic initiator is sufficiently low so as not to activate the latter. On the other hand, when the intensity of the current passing through the fusible element exceeds the predetermined value, the fusible element is triggered, that is to say that its resistance increases so as to initiate the disconnection of the conductive portion.
  • the voltage at the terminals of the fuse element increases when it trips and therefore the intensity in the ignition device increases, thus enabling the pyrotechnic initiator to be actuated and the device to be switched from the first to the second configuration. in order to permanently cut off the flow of current in the circuit.
  • Another advantage of the invention is that a compact and integrated breaking solution is proposed insofar as the fusible element making it possible to trigger the initiator is present inside the breaking device and not at the outside of the latter.
  • the invention thus advantageously makes it possible to simplify the existing breaking systems by proposing an autonomous breaking device directly integrating the element which will trigger the breaking, in this case the fusible element.
  • At least one resistor or one diode may be present in series on the line connecting the ignition device of the initiator to one of the terminals of the fuse element.
  • Such an embodiment advantageously makes it possible to avoid any risk of degradation of the ignition device by the current flowing in the latter.
  • the fusible element can be attached to the conductive portion.
  • the fusible element constitutes a separate element from the conductive portion which has been connected in series to the latter, for example by welding.
  • the pressurization chamber constitutes a first chamber of the cut-off device, at least part of the conductive portion being present in a second chamber present in the body, the movable cut-off element separating the first chamber from the second chamber and having at least one relief formed from an electrically insulating material, said at least one relief facing the conductive portion, the movable cut-off element being set in motion towards the conductive portion in order to break it by impact with the relief when switching from the first to the second configuration.
  • the conductive portion is disconnected by breaking it by impact with the relief when the device passes from the first to the second configuration.
  • the patent also describes the case where the conductive portion has a first electrically conductive element and a second electrically conductive element and the movable breaking element has a third electrically conductive element, the third conductive element making the electrical connection between the first and second conductive elements when the breaking device is in the first configuration and the third conductive element being released from at least one of the first and second conductive elements so as to prevent the flow of current electric between them when the device is in the second configuration.
  • an electric current can flow between the first conductor and the second conductor via the third conductor when the device is in the first configuration.
  • the first and the second conductors are no longer electrically connected without the conductive portion being broken.
  • This electrical disconnection results from the displacement of a conductive element of the movable breaking element when the device passes from the first configuration to the second configuration.
  • the conductive portion is disconnected by eliminating the electrical connection between at least two conductive elements thereof, without there being any rupture of said conductive portion, following the displacement of the movable cut-off element when the device goes from the first to the second configuration.
  • the movable breaking element may, in this case, be entirely formed of an electrically conductive material or comprise the third conductive element and an insulating portion of electricity.
  • the device can comprise a single conductive portion.
  • the cut-off device can be intended to be connected to a single-phase supply circuit.
  • the device may include several conductive portions, a fusible element being connected in series to each of the conductive portions, the initiator being able to be connected to the terminals of the fusible element and the fusible element being able to be configured to trip when the intensity of the current flowing through it exceeds the predetermined value and thereby actuate the initiator.
  • the cut-off device can be intended to be connected to a polyphase supply circuit.
  • the polyphase supply circuit can for example be a three-phase circuit or alternatively have two or at least four phases.
  • circuit phase is meant, unless otherwise stated, the electrical conductor corresponding to said phase of the electrical circuit.
  • the invention also relates to a secure electrical system according to claim 5.
  • the electrical system may further comprise an electrical device control element configured to actuate the initiator when the value of an operating parameter of the electrical device reaches a predetermined value.
  • This embodiment is advantageous in order to achieve a complete cut of the circuit when a malfunction occurs in the electrical device to be supplied and no longer necessarily in terms of overcurrent of the current flowing in the circuit.
  • the operating parameter can be pressure or temperature.
  • the control element of the electrical device can be configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when the temperature of the electrical device or the pressure of at least part of the electrical device exceeds a predetermined value.
  • the present invention also relates to a vehicle comprising at least one secure electrical system as described above.
  • vehicle can for example be an aircraft, a train or an automobile.
  • the present invention also relates to an installation comprising at least one secure electrical system as described above.
  • the electrical device can for example be a train engine.
  • the electrical device can be a heat pump or a power installation.
  • the figure 1 is a sectional view of an exemplary switching device 1 according to the invention. As will be detailed below, there is, in the example of switching device 1 illustrated in the figure 1 , rupture of the conductive portion during the passage of the device 1 from the first to the second configuration. Other arrangements will be described below.
  • the device 1 is in the first configuration, that is to say in a configuration in which an electric current (arrow I) can flow in phase 10 of the supply circuit and in the conductive portion 8.
  • the supply circuit is single-phase and the cut-off device 1 comprises a single conductive portion 8. It is not, however, outside the scope of the invention when the circuit comprises a plurality of phases and the cut-off device a plurality of portions conductive, such an exemplary embodiment being discussed below.
  • the breaking device 1 comprises a pyrotechnic initiator 3 comprising an ignition device 9 provided with two electrical conductors 5 (only one of these conductors being shown on the figure 1 , the two conductors 5 being visible on the figures 2 and 3 ).
  • the pyrotechnic initiator 3 also comprises a pyrotechnic charge 4.
  • the pyrotechnic charge 4 can be in the form of one or more monolithic blocks. Alternatively, the load 4 can be in granular form. It goes from the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art to choose the nature and the dimensions of the pyrotechnic charge to be used for the intended current cut-off application.
  • the device 1 comprises a body 11 inside which a first 7 and a second 12 chambers are present.
  • the body 11 can for example be formed from a thermoplastic or thermosetting material.
  • the pyrotechnic initiator 3 comprises a seal 6 made of elastically deformable material bearing on an internal wall 14 of the body 11.
  • the ignition device 9 is, in the example illustrated, housed in the body 11.
  • the body 11 further has two through channels 11a, each of the conductors 5 extending in a separate channel 11a.
  • the first chamber 7 constitutes a pressurization chamber and is in communication with an outlet S of the pyrotechnic initiator 3.
  • the pyrotechnic initiator 3 is configured to pressurize the first chamber 7 when it is actuated.
  • the pyrotechnic charge 4 is present in the first chamber 7. It is not, however, outside the scope of the invention when this charge is present outside the first chamber as long as the latter remains in communication with an output from the pyrotechnic initiator.
  • An electrically conductive portion 8 is present in the second chamber 12 (see Figures 1 and 3 especially). The ends of the conductive portion 8 protrude from the body 11 in the example illustrated. This conductive portion 8 is, in the example illustrated, in the form of a tab. The conductive portion 8 can for example be made of copper.
  • the conductive portion 8 is provided with a fuse 40 which is connected in series to the latter.
  • the fuse element 40 constitutes, in this example, a separate element from the conductive portion 8 which has been attached to it.
  • the fuse 40 can for example be welded or clipped to the conductive portion 8.
  • the fuse 40 has been welded with its insulating envelope to the conductive portion 8.
  • the fuse 40 here comprises a fusible core present in an insulating envelope for electricity.
  • the insulating envelope may contain a powder of an electrically insulating material, such as silica, inside which the fusible core is present.
  • the fact of using a fusible core with its insulating envelope advantageously makes it possible to improve the resistance over time of the fusible core, and thus to further improve the reliability of the breaking device. Furthermore, in this example, the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12 which is present inside the body 11.
  • the electrical conductors 5 are each connected to a separate terminal of the fuse 40. More specifically, the side wall 22 of the body 11 has channels 23a and 23b through which electrical conductors 24a and 24b extend.
  • the first electrical conductor 24a connects a first terminal of the fuse 40 to a first conductor 5 of the ignition device 9.
  • the second electrical conductor 24b connects a second terminal of the fuse 40, different from the first, to a second conductor 5 of the device d ignition 9 different from the first driver.
  • the resistance across the terminals of the fuse 40 increases, thereby generating a sufficient potential difference in order to actuate the ignition device 9 and thus cut off the electric current.
  • the fuse does not need to hold a high voltage, which makes it possible to use fuses having a relatively low breakdown voltage.
  • the cut-off device can be used in a system implementing a voltage of less than 100 V, for example.
  • At least one resistor or a diode in series (not shown) on the line connecting the fuse 40 to the ignition device 9 in order to reduce the intensity flowing in the ignition device 9 and therefore avoid any degradation of the latter in the presence of the nominal current.
  • the conductive portion 8 is present on a support 18.
  • the support 18 has, in the example illustrated, a drawer structure intended to be engaged in an opening 22a of the side wall 22 of the body 11.
  • the support 18 defines a relief in hollow 20 located below the conductive portion 8 when the device 1 is in the first configuration.
  • the support 18 has a groove 19 in which the conductive portion 8 is housed.
  • the conductive portion 8 is intended connected to a phase 10 of the supply circuit. This connection can for example be carried out by welding.
  • the ends of the conductive portion 8 are connected to a phase 10 of the supply circuit.
  • the example of device 1 of the figure 1 further comprises a movable cut-off element 15 formed of an electrically insulating material, for example polyetheretherketone (PEEK GF40) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).
  • the cutting element 15 sealingly separates the first chamber 7 from the second chamber 12.
  • the cutting element 15 is located between the first 7 and the second 12 chambers.
  • the cut-off element 15 has at least one relief 17 opposite the conductive portion 8.
  • the cut-off element 15 has a seal 16 formed of an elastically deformable material which is supported on a side wall 22 of the body 11.
  • the side wall 22 surrounds the first 7 and second 12 chambers.
  • the side wall 22 of the body 11 defines an interior volume in which the first 7 and second 12 chambers are present and in particular in which the fuse 40 is present. More specifically, in the example illustrated, the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12.
  • the relief 17 is in the form of a portion of extra thickness.
  • the cutting element 15 has a single relief 17 intended to break the conductive portion 8.
  • the invention is not limited to a particular shape for the distal end 17b of the relief 17 as long as the relief 17 is able to break the conductive portion 8 by impact with the latter.
  • the distal end 17b of the relief 17 can thus for example have a planar shape as illustrated or even a pointed or rounded shape.
  • the cut-off element 15 is configured to move along the axis of movement X following the actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator 3.
  • the recessed relief 20, the conductive portion 8 and the relief 17 are superimposed along the axis X.
  • the body 11 is molded onto the pyrotechnic initiator 3.
  • the cut-off element 15 is then forcefully inserted through the bottom 25.
  • the cutting element 15 has a positioning relief 26, here in the form of a notch, intended to cooperate with a relief present on the internal wall of the body. This cooperation makes it possible to block the cutting element 15 in rotation and thus prevent the latter from rotating around the axis X when the first chamber 7 is pressurized by the pyrotechnic initiator 3.
  • the conductive portion carrying the fuse 40 is then placed in the groove 19 of the support 18.
  • the support 18 is then inserted through an opening 22a in the side wall 22 of the body 11 transversely to the axis of movement X and the wires 24a and 24b are then soldered to the terminals of fuse 40.
  • the breaking device 1 illustrated in figure 3 This is thus obtained which is ready to be connected to a supply circuit, for example by soldering phase 10 on the conductive portion 8.
  • the device 1 is initially in the first configuration in which an electric current (arrow I) can flow in phase 10 and in the conductive portion 8 (the fuse 40 is on).
  • the cut-off element 15 is in a first position, called the high position.
  • the fuse 40 trips.
  • the resistance at the terminals of the fuse increases, which makes it possible to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator.
  • the actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator 3 allows the switching device to pass from the first configuration to a second configuration in which the circulation of electric current in the conductive portion 8 is interrupted (conductive portion disconnected).
  • the actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator allows the combustion of one or more pyrotechnic charges 4 in order to generate a combustion gas (arrows F) which will pressurize the first chamber 7 (see figure 4A ).
  • This pressurization of the first chamber 7 sets in motion the cut-off element 15 towards the conductive portion 8.
  • the movable cut-off element 15 is configured not to be broken during the pressurization of the first chamber 7 by the pyrotechnic initiator .
  • the cut-off element 15 is configured to move without deforming when the device 1 passes from the first configuration to the second configuration.
  • the cutting element 15 is driven in a translational movement along the axis X in the direction of the conductive portion 8 during the transition from the first configuration to the second configuration.
  • the movement of the cut-off element 15 does not include a component of rotation about the axis X during the transition from the first to the second configuration.
  • the cutting element 15 impacts the conductive portion 8 and thus breaks the latter (see Figures 4B and 4C ).
  • This breaking of the conductive portion 8 into several separate parts 8a and 8b makes it possible to prevent the flow of electric current and therefore to guarantee the security of the system.
  • the breaking element is configured as illustrated to impact the conductive portion 8 transversely, for example perpendicularly, to the direction of circulation of the electric current in this portion 8.
  • the relief 17 is housed in the relief in hollow 20 of the support 18 when the device 1 is in the second configuration, the relief 17 thus abutting on the bottom of the hollow relief 20.
  • the cut-off element 15 is in a second position, called the low position and the current is cut.
  • This example of a device according to the invention can advantageously make it possible to produce a particularly rapid power cut, for example in approximately 0.2 ms.
  • the relief 17 impacts the conductive portion at a region separate from that where the fuse 40 is present.
  • the initiator can be chosen to present dielectric insulation after operation greater than the system voltage.
  • a maintenance operation can be performed after cutting the supply circuit in order to remove the cut-off device in the second configuration and replace it with a break in the first configuration.
  • the supply of the electrical device by the supply circuit can then resume.
  • switching device 1 which has just been described in connection with the Figures 1 to 3 and 4A to 4C is such that (i) the current is cut off by breaking the conductive portion 8 during the impact of the latter with the movable breaking element 15, and (ii) the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12 in which the conductive portion 8 is present.
  • Other configurations can be envisaged in the context of the present invention as will be described below.
  • the breaking device comprises a plurality of conducting portions 80.
  • the breaking device comprising this plurality of conducting portions can be intended to be connected to a polyphase circuit.
  • the breaking device is intended to be connected to a three-phase circuit.
  • the number of conductive portions 80 of the breaking device can be equal to the number of phases of the circuit.
  • Each of the conductive portions 80 is intended to be connected to a separate phase of this circuit.
  • Each conductive portion 80 has a fuse 40 which is connected to it in series.
  • the rest of the cut-off device can be similar to that described in the figure 1 with the difference that the pyrotechnic initiator has a plurality of ignition devices each connected to the terminals of a separate fuse.
  • the conductive portions 80 are spaced from each other by a non-zero distance.
  • the relief of the cut-off element is intended to break the various conductive portions 80 simultaneously when the pyrotechnic initiator is actuated.
  • the resistance at the terminals of the fuse associated with this phase increases, thereby generating a sufficient potential difference at the terminals of the fuse in order to activate the ignition device connected to this fuse and thus cut off the electric current.
  • the implementation of such a cut-off device advantageously makes it possible to avoid situations in which at least one phase remains on after switching off another phase, given that after actuation of the device cutting all portions conductors are simultaneously broken, thus preventing any flow of current in the circuit.
  • the conductive portion 90 is formed from a single material and has a thinned area 140 of reduced width and possibly of reduced thickness.
  • This thinned area 140 is configured to melt when the intensity of the current flowing through the conductive portion 90 exceeds the predetermined value.
  • An initiator is also connected to the terminals of the thinned area 140 so as to trigger the cut-off of the current when the resistance of the thinned area 140 increases, in a similar manner to that described above.
  • the fusible element is constituted by a necking of the conductive portion itself, without having to attach a third fusible element in series with it.
  • the device 1 comprises a body 114 inside which are present: a first chamber 7, a second chamber 12 and a third chamber 128.
  • the pyrotechnic initiator 3 has the same structure as in the example of figure 1 and the same reference numbers were used at the figure 6 to designate the same elements as in the figure 1 .
  • the first chamber 7 constitutes a pressurization chamber and is in communication with an outlet S of the pyrotechnic initiator 3.
  • an electrically conductive portion 180 is present in the second chamber 12.
  • the device 111 comprises a third chamber 128 in which are present a fusible element 130 as well as a powder 131 of an insulating material electricity.
  • the fusible element 130 is here present inside the insulating powder 131.
  • the electrically insulating material can for example be silica.
  • the fuse element 130 may be constituted by the fuse core of a commercial fuse which has been separated from its insulating envelope.
  • the fusible element 130 is connected to phase 110 of the circuit via the electrical connector 110a and this element 130 is, in addition, connected in series to the conductive portion 180 via the electrical connector 180a.
  • the conductive portion 180 is, for its part, connected to phase 110 of the circuit in order to allow, in normal operation, the circulation of an electric current in the circuit through the breaking device 111.
  • the electrical conductors 5 are each connected to a separate terminal of the fuse element 130.
  • the side wall 122 of the body 114 has channels 123a and 123b through which electrical conductors 124a and 124b extend.
  • the first electrical conductor 124a connects a first terminal of the fuse element 130 to a first conductor 5 of the ignition device 9.
  • the second electrical conductor 124b connects a second terminal of the fuse element 130, different from the first, to a second conductor 5 of the ignition device 9 different from the first conductor.
  • phase 110 when an electric current of an intensity greater than the predetermined value passes through phase 110, the resistance at the terminals of the fusible core increases, thus generating a sufficient potential difference in order to actuate the ignition device 9 and thus cut off the electrical current.
  • actuation of the ignition device 9 makes it possible to set in motion the movable cut-off element 15 which will break the conductive portion 8 by impact with the latter in order to interrupt the circulation of the electric current in the circuit.
  • the first 7, second 12 and third 128 rooms are superimposed.
  • the second chamber 12 is positioned between the first chamber 7 and the third chamber 128 in this example.
  • the conductive portion 180 is present on a support 118 having a drawer structure similar to that described in connection with the Figures 1 to 3 .
  • the channels 123a and 123b extend through the drawer 118 so as to be able to connect the connectors 5 to the terminals of the fuse element 130.
  • the actuation of the initiator results in the movement of the movable cut-off element 15 towards the conductive portion 180 in order to break the latter, in a manner similar to that described in Figures 4A to 4C .
  • the breaking device 211 comprises a hollow body 216 of electrically insulating material delimiting a cavity 219, a pyrotechnic initiator 223 and a conductive portion comprising two primary electrical conductive pads 213, 214 which open into the cavity 219.
  • the conductive portion thus comprises a first electrically conductive element (conductive pad 213) and a second electrically conductive element (conductive pad 214).
  • the first 213 and the second 214 electrically conductive elements are offset along the longitudinal axis Y of the cavity 219 in the example illustrated.
  • the cut-off device 211 also comprises a movable cut-off element 220 configured to move in the cavity 219.
  • the cavity 219 is cylindrical and the movable cut-off element 220 is itself essentially cylindrical.
  • the movable breaking element 220 comprises, in the example illustrated, a first part formed of an electrically insulating material and a second part formed of an electrically conductive material.
  • the movable cut-off element 220 comprises a split tube 221 which includes at least one electrically conductive element. In the example illustrated on Figures 7A, 7B and 8 , the split tube 221 is fully conductive of electricity.
  • the split tube 221 has a slot 229.
  • the movable cut-off element 220 further comprises a sliding drawer 222 made of an electrically insulating material forming a piston, adapted to move inside the cavity, so as to entrain with it the split tube 221.
  • a sliding drawer 222 made of an electrically insulating material forming a piston, adapted to move inside the cavity, so as to entrain with it the split tube 221.
  • a movable cut-off element entirely formed of an electrically conductive material in the example of cut-off device illustrated in the figure 7A .
  • Such an element could comprise a first part forming a tube similar to the conductive tube 221 illustrated and a second part in the form of a disc extending transversely with respect to the Y axis and obstructing the first part.
  • the split tube 221 (third conductive element) provides the electrical connection between the studs 213 and 214 (first and second conductive elements). This allows current to flow in the circuit through the conductive portion of the cutoff device 211.
  • the pyrotechnic initiator 223 comprises a pyrotechnic gas generator, known per se, installed in the hollow body so as to communicate with the cavity 219.
  • a pressurization chamber 225 is defined between the pyrotechnic initiator 223 and one of the axial end faces of the piston 222.
  • the piston 222 comprises a cavity 226 in its upstream face, directed towards the pyrotechnic initiator 223, and this cavity 226 constitutes a part of the pressurizing chamber 225.
  • both electrical conductor pads 213, 214 are electrically connected to each other, via the split tube 221 in a first position, called the initial position.
  • the electrical contact being made via the third conductive element (here the split tube 221), as mentioned above.
  • the two conductive pads have two coaxial rings 213a, 214a offset axially along the axis Y (corresponding to the direction of movement of the movable breaking element 220) and these rings 213a, 214a are at least in close contact with the conductive part of the movable cut-off element (here the split tube 221) when it is in said first position.
  • the internal faces of the rings 213a, 214a are flush with the wall of the cavity 219.
  • the split tube 221 is engaged by forced interlocking between the rings 213a, 214a of said primary conductive pads 213, 214 , which guarantees an excellent electrical connection between said primary conductive pads throughout the period preceding the actuation of the switching device 211.
  • one of the rings 213a has in the illustrated example a fuse 240 which is connected to it in series.
  • the fuse 240 is, in the example illustrated, integrated into the ring 213a with its insulating envelope.
  • the support portion 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator 223 includes two through channels 212a and 212b.
  • a first electrical conductor 240a extends through a first channel 212a so as to connect a first electrical conductor 223a of the pyrotechnic initiator 223 to a first terminal of the fuse 240.
  • a second electrical conductor 240b s' extends through a second channel 212b so as to connect a second electrical conductor 223b of the pyrotechnic initiator 223, different from the first conductor 223a, to a second terminal of the fuse 240 different from the first.
  • the resistance of the fuse 240 increases so as to create at its terminals a sufficient potential difference to be able to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator 223.
  • a fuse element connected to the pyrotechnic initiator could be present on the electrical pad 214 by being connected in series to the latter.
  • the mobile cut-off element 220 moves to a second position in the cavity ( figure 7B ), following the pressurization of the pressurizing chamber 225.
  • the split tube 221 is released from the pad 213, this makes it possible to prevent the electrical connection between the two conductive pads 213, 214 and to interrupt current flow in the circuit.
  • the split tube 221 is separated from the stud 213 and is in contact with the stud 214.
  • the split tube is neither in contact with the stud 213 nor with the stud 214 when the device is in the second configuration.
  • the figure 8 shows how a cut-off device 211 as described can be produced in a simple and economical manner.
  • the hollow body 216 is defined by the assembly of two housing elements 230, 231, respectively left 230 and right 231.
  • the housing element 230 comprises two tapped blind holes 232 surmounted by an imprint open laterally 233a, 233b and 233c and the shape is defined to accommodate a part of each electrically conductive pad 213, 214 and a part of the support 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator.
  • Each electrically conductive stud comprises a ring 213a and 214a extended laterally by a connection bar 213b and 214b projecting outside the insulating hollow body so as to be able to be connected to the electrical circuit external to the breaking device 211.
  • the second element of housing 231 has two through holes 236 allowing the insertion of fixing screws 237.
  • the first housing element 230 further comprises an imprint open laterally 234a, 234b and 234c and whose shape is defined to accommodate part of each electrically conductive pad 213, 214 and part of the support 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator.
  • the support 212 is mounted between the two housing elements 230, 231 and comprises a bore 238 which receives at its end the initiator 223.
  • the initiator 223 is mounted inside said support 212 so as to define the setting chamber under pressure 225 inside said bore 238.
  • the split tube 221 is forcibly engaged in each of the two rings 213a, 214a.
  • the two coaxial and axially offset rings 213a, 214a are electrically connected via the split metal tube 221.
  • the insulating drawer 222 is inserted inside of the sliding split tube 221.
  • a first part or upstream part 241 of cylindrical shape, of diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the cavity 219, slides along the internal faces of said cavity. In its upstream face, directed upwards on the Figures 7A, 7B and 8 , the first part 241 comprises a cavity 226, here also substantially cylindrical, which partially delimits the initial volume of the pressurizing chamber 225.
  • the first part 241 comprises two circumferential grooves 261, 262, spaced axially from each other, and each receiving an O-ring seal 263, 264.
  • the piston 222 closes the pressurization chamber 225 and allows rapid pressure increase in the closed environment of this bedroom.
  • the gases generated in the pressurizing chamber 225 do not infiltrate towards the conductive rings 213a, 214a.
  • a groove is advantageously formed in at least one of said grooves and configured to form a calibrated passage for the evacuation of air from the pressurization chamber during the mounting of the piston 222 in the support 212 of the initiator pyrotechnic 223.
  • the piston 222 located at least partly upstream of the split tube, has the function of transmitting to said tube 221 the pressure force generated by the gases in the pressurizing chamber 225 and allowing the cutting of the circuit by moving said tube 221.
  • the first part 241 is extended by a second downstream part 242, of slightly smaller diameter chosen to allow its insertion, possibly by force, inside the split tube once it is inserted between the rings 213a, 214a. This second part can act as a guide element for the split tube, during its movement inside the cavity 219.
  • the piston 222 has here, on a part located directly upstream of the split tube, a diameter equal at most to the external diameter of this tube once inserted between the rings.
  • the diameter of the upstream part of the piston is even slightly smaller than that of the split tube, so that the piston, driving the split tube, can slide easily between the rings, without remaining blocked. This is made possible here by a slight difference in diameter between the most upstream part of the cavity along which the piston slides (formed here by the bore of the initiator support) and its downstream part (formed by the housing elements), wider, into which the rings open.
  • the cavity 219 is extended downstream by a guide portion 245 which makes it possible to guide the split tube 221 when it passes from the first to the second position and to ensure that it ci a straight path.
  • a damping pad 29 is inserted into the bottom of the cavity 219. If necessary, this damping pad 29 has for the purpose of reducing the energy of the impact of the split conductive tube 221 and of the insulating piston 222 when the two parts come into contact on the bottom of the body 216.
  • the secure electrical system 30 comprises a secure supply system 2 connected to an electrical device 31 intended to be supplied by this supply system 2.
  • the supply system 2 comprises a single-phase supply circuit comprising an electric generator G and a phase 10 connected to this generator G.
  • the generator G can for example be an alternator.
  • Generator G can be connected to a heat engine such as an internal combustion engine or a turbojet.
  • the generator G may be part of an installation such as a power station producing an alternating current.
  • the cut-off device 1 illustrated in the figure 1 is linked to phase 10 as detailed above. The cut-off device 1 is mounted in series with the generator G and the electrical device 31.
  • the cut-off device 1 is present between the generator G and the electric device 31.
  • the generator G is present upstream of the cut-off device 1 and the electrical device 31 is present downstream of the breaking device 1.
  • upstream and downstream are used here with reference to the direction of the electric current in the supply circuit (arrow I).
  • the figure 10 shows another example of a secure electrical system and power system 300 according to the invention.
  • a structure similar to that of the figure 9 was used in which a control element 37 of the electrical device 31 was added.
  • This control element 37 is connected to the ignition device of the cut-off device 100.
  • the control element 37 is configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when an operating parameter of the electrical device reaches a predetermined value. This makes it possible to cut off the electric current by the cut-off device 100 also in the event of a malfunction of the electric device. 31 and not only in the event of an overcurrent in the circuit.
  • the control element 37 comprises for example a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the electrical device 31.
  • control element 37 may comprise a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of a part at least of the electrical device 31.
  • the control element 37 can be configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when the temperature of the electrical device 31 or the pressure of a part of said device 31 exceeds a predetermined value and this in order to guarantee the security of the system 300 when a malfunction is observed.
  • the secure electrical systems 30 and 300 which have just been described may be mounted in a vehicle such as an aircraft or a train or be present in an industrial installation.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Fuses (AREA)
  • Emergency Protection Circuit Devices (AREA)

Description

Arrière-plan de l'inventionInvention background

L'invention concerne un dispositif de coupure du courant circulant dans un circuit électrique ainsi qu'un système électrique sécurisé comprenant un tel dispositif de coupure.The invention relates to a device for interrupting the current flowing in an electrical circuit and to a secure electrical system comprising such a device.

La protection des circuits électriques peut actuellement être assurée par positionnement de fusibles sur chacune des phases. Ces fusibles permettent de couper le courant en cas d'apparition d'un courant élevé pendant une durée suffisante, leur utilisation est fiable dans le cas de pannes franches avec des courants de défaut élevés. Toutefois, pour des courants légèrement supérieurs à leur courant nominal, ces fusibles peuvent présenter un délai de coupure relativement long voire une coupure incomplète. Une coupure incomplète ou réalisée trop tard peut conduire à un endommagement rédhibitoire du système électrique et notamment d'un dispositif électrique alimenté par le circuit électrique. Il est donc souhaitable d'améliorer la qualité de la coupure effectuée lorsqu'un dysfonctionnement survient afin d'améliorer la sécurité et la durée de vie de systèmes électriques.The protection of electrical circuits can currently be ensured by positioning fuses on each of the phases. These fuses make it possible to cut the current in the event of the appearance of a high current for a sufficient duration, their use is reliable in the event of frank failures with high fault currents. However, for currents slightly higher than their nominal current, these fuses can have a relatively long cut-off time or even an incomplete cut. An incomplete cut or made too late can lead to unacceptable damage to the electrical system and in particular to an electrical device supplied by the electrical circuit. It is therefore desirable to improve the quality of the shutdown performed when a malfunction occurs in order to improve the safety and service life of electrical systems.

On connaît DE 20 2015 106 793 U1 divulgue un dispositif de coupure permettant de déconnecter une portion conductrice.We know DE 20 2015 106 793 U1 discloses a cut-off device for disconnecting a conductive portion.

Il existe donc un besoin pour fournir des dispositifs de coupure relativement simples permettant d'améliorer la qualité de la coupure électrique.There is therefore a need to provide relatively simple shutdown devices to improve the quality of electrical shutdown.

Objet et résumé de l'inventionSubject and summary of the invention

A cet effet, l'invention propose, selon un premier aspect, un dispositif de coupure selon la revendication 1
Lorsqu'il est actionné, l'initiateur pyrotechnique est configuré pour produire un gaz de mise sous pression afin de pressuriser la chambre de mise sous pression. Le gaz de mise sous pression exerce une pression sur l'élément de coupure mobile afin de le mettre en mouvement. L'élément de coupure mobile ainsi mis en mouvement est configuré pour faire passer le dispositif dans la deuxième configuration dans laquelle la portion conductrice est déconnectée, c'est-à-dire dans une configuration dans laquelle la circulation d'un courant électrique dans la portion conductrice est interrompue. Ainsi, lorsque le dispositif est dans la deuxième configuration, le courant électrique circulant dans le circuit électrique est coupé.To this end, the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a cut-off device according to claim 1
When activated, the pyrotechnic initiator is configured to produce pressurizing gas to pressurize the pressurizing chamber. The pressurizing gas exerts pressure on the movable cut-off element in order to set it in motion. The movable cut-off element thus set in motion is configured to passing the device into the second configuration in which the conductive portion is disconnected, that is to say in a configuration in which the circulation of an electric current in the conductive portion is interrupted. Thus, when the device is in the second configuration, the electric current flowing in the electric circuit is cut.

L'invention propose un dispositif de coupure permettant de réaliser rapidement une coupure électrique fiable dans un circuit en cas de surintensité du courant électrique et d'éviter ainsi l'endommagement d'un dispositif électrique alimenté par ledit circuit. Plus précisément, lors d'un fonctionnement normal du système, l'élément fusible est passant, la tension aux bornes de l'élément fusible relativement faible et le courant traversant le dispositif d'allumage de l'initiateur pyrotechnique est suffisamment faible pour ne pas actionner ce dernier. En revanche, lorsque l'intensité du courant traversant l'élément fusible dépasse la valeur prédéterminée, l'élément fusible se déclenche, c'est-à-dire que sa résistance augmente de sorte à initier la déconnexion de la portion conductrice. Ainsi, la tension aux bornes de l'élément fusible augmente lors de son déclenchement et donc l'intensité dans le dispositif d'allumage augmente permettant ainsi d'actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique et de faire passer le dispositif de la première à la deuxième configuration afin de couper définitivement la circulation du courant dans le circuit. Un autre avantage de l'invention est qu'il est proposé une solution de coupure compacte et intégrée dans la mesure où l'élément fusible permettant de déclencher l'initiateur est présent à l'intérieur même du dispositif de coupure et non à l'extérieur de ce dernier. L'invention permet ainsi avantageusement de simplifier les systèmes de coupure existants en proposant un dispositif de coupure autonome intégrant directement l'élément qui va déclencher la coupure, en l'occurrence l'élément fusible. Cela permet avantageusement de s'affranchir de la présence d'un dispositif tiers capteur / analyseur de tension/courant pour permettre le déclenchement de l'initiateur. Ainsi, la combinaison de la coupure par l'élément fusible et de la coupure par mise en mouvement de l'élément de coupure mobile permet d'améliorer très significativement la sécurité de systèmes d'alimentation d'une manière relativement simple dans la mesure où elle permet d'assurer de manière autonome la réalisation d'une coupure complète et ainsi d'éviter les situations où l'élément fusible ne coupe pas complètement le courant.The invention provides a cut-off device enabling rapid reliable electrical cut-off in a circuit in the event of an overcurrent of the electric current and thus preventing damage to an electric device supplied by said circuit. More precisely, during normal operation of the system, the fuse element is on, the voltage across the terminals of the relatively low fuse element and the current passing through the ignition device of the pyrotechnic initiator is sufficiently low so as not to activate the latter. On the other hand, when the intensity of the current passing through the fusible element exceeds the predetermined value, the fusible element is triggered, that is to say that its resistance increases so as to initiate the disconnection of the conductive portion. Thus, the voltage at the terminals of the fuse element increases when it trips and therefore the intensity in the ignition device increases, thus enabling the pyrotechnic initiator to be actuated and the device to be switched from the first to the second configuration. in order to permanently cut off the flow of current in the circuit. Another advantage of the invention is that a compact and integrated breaking solution is proposed insofar as the fusible element making it possible to trigger the initiator is present inside the breaking device and not at the outside of the latter. The invention thus advantageously makes it possible to simplify the existing breaking systems by proposing an autonomous breaking device directly integrating the element which will trigger the breaking, in this case the fusible element. This advantageously makes it possible to dispense with the presence of a third-party voltage / current sensor / analyzer device to allow the initiation of the initiator. Thus, the combination of switching off by the fusible element and switching off by setting in motion the movable switching element makes it possible to very significantly improve the safety of supply systems in a relatively simple manner insofar as it makes it possible to independently carry out a complete shutdown and thus avoid situations where the fuse element does not completely cut off the current.

Avantageusement, au moins une résistance ou une diode peut être présente en série sur la ligne reliant le dispositif d'allumage de l'initiateur à l'une des bornes de l'élément fusible.Advantageously, at least one resistor or one diode may be present in series on the line connecting the ignition device of the initiator to one of the terminals of the fuse element.

Un tel mode de réalisation permet avantageusement d'éviter tout risque de dégradation du dispositif d'allumage par le courant circulant dans ce dernier.Such an embodiment advantageously makes it possible to avoid any risk of degradation of the ignition device by the current flowing in the latter.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, l'élément fusible peut être rapporté sur la portion conductrice. Dans ce cas, l'élément fusible constitue un élément distinct de la portion conductrice qui a été relié en série à cette dernière, par exemple par soudure.In an exemplary embodiment, the fusible element can be attached to the conductive portion. In this case, the fusible element constitutes a separate element from the conductive portion which has been connected in series to the latter, for example by welding.

La chambre de mise sous pression constitue une première chambre de dispositif de coupure, une partie au moins de la portion conductrice étant présente dans une deuxième chambre présente dans le corps, l'élément de coupure mobile séparant la première chambre de la deuxième chambre et présentant au moins un relief formé d'un matériau isolant de l'électricité, ledit au moins un relief étant en regard de la portion conductrice, l'élément de coupure mobile étant mis en mouvement vers la portion conductrice afin de la rompre par impact avec le relief lors du passage de la première à la deuxième configuration.The pressurization chamber constitutes a first chamber of the cut-off device, at least part of the conductive portion being present in a second chamber present in the body, the movable cut-off element separating the first chamber from the second chamber and having at least one relief formed from an electrically insulating material, said at least one relief facing the conductive portion, the movable cut-off element being set in motion towards the conductive portion in order to break it by impact with the relief when switching from the first to the second configuration.

La déconnexion de la portion conductrice est effectuée par rupture de celle-ci par impact avec le relief lorsque le dispositif passe de la première à la deuxième configuration.The conductive portion is disconnected by breaking it by impact with the relief when the device passes from the first to the second configuration.

Le brevet décrit encore le cas où la portion conductrice présente un premier élément conducteur de l'électricité et un deuxième élément conducteur de l'électricité et l'élément de coupure mobile présente un troisième élément conducteur de l'électricité, le troisième élément conducteur réalisant la connexion électrique entre le premier et le deuxième éléments conducteurs lorsque le dispositif de coupure est dans la première configuration et le troisième élément conducteur étant dégagé de l'un au moins des premier et deuxième éléments conducteurs de manière à empêcher la circulation d'un courant électrique entre ces derniers lorsque le dispositif est dans la deuxième configuration.The patent also describes the case where the conductive portion has a first electrically conductive element and a second electrically conductive element and the movable breaking element has a third electrically conductive element, the third conductive element making the electrical connection between the first and second conductive elements when the breaking device is in the first configuration and the third conductive element being released from at least one of the first and second conductive elements so as to prevent the flow of current electric between them when the device is in the second configuration.

Dans ce cas, un courant électrique peut circuler entre le premier conducteur et le deuxième conducteur par l'intermédiaire du troisième conducteur lorsque le dispositif est dans la première configuration. En revanche, lorsque le dispositif est dans la deuxième configuration, le premier et le deuxième conducteurs ne sont plus connectés électriquement sans qu'il y ait eu rupture de la portion conductrice. Cette déconnexion électrique résulte du déplacement d'un élément conducteur de l'élément de coupure mobile lorsque le dispositif passe de la première configuration à la deuxième configuration. Ainsi, dans ce cas, la portion conductrice est déconnectée en supprimant la connexion électrique entre au moins deux éléments conducteurs de celle-ci, sans qu'il y ait rupture de ladite portion conductrice, suite au déplacement de l'élément de coupure mobile lorsque le dispositif passe de la première à la deuxième configuration. Comme il sera détaillé plus bas, l'élément de coupure mobile peut, dans ce cas, être entièrement formé d'un matériau conducteur de l'électricité ou comporter le troisième élément conducteur et une portion isolante de l'électricité.In this case, an electric current can flow between the first conductor and the second conductor via the third conductor when the device is in the first configuration. On the other hand, when the device is in the second configuration, the first and the second conductors are no longer electrically connected without the conductive portion being broken. This electrical disconnection results from the displacement of a conductive element of the movable breaking element when the device passes from the first configuration to the second configuration. Thus, in this case, the conductive portion is disconnected by eliminating the electrical connection between at least two conductive elements thereof, without there being any rupture of said conductive portion, following the displacement of the movable cut-off element when the device goes from the first to the second configuration. As will be detailed below, the movable breaking element may, in this case, be entirely formed of an electrically conductive material or comprise the third conductive element and an insulating portion of electricity.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le dispositif peut comprendre une unique portion conductrice. Dans ce cas, le dispositif de coupure peut être destiné à être relié à un circuit d'alimentation monophasé.In an exemplary embodiment, the device can comprise a single conductive portion. In this case, the cut-off device can be intended to be connected to a single-phase supply circuit.

En variante, le dispositif peut comprendre plusieurs portions conductrices, un élément fusible étant relié en série à chacune des portions conductrices, l'initiateur pouvant être relié aux bornes de l'élément fusible et l'élément fusible pouvant être configuré pour se déclencher lorsque l'intensité du courant qui le traverse dépasse la valeur prédéterminée et pour actionner ainsi l'initiateur. Dans ce cas, le dispositif de coupure peut être destiné à être relié à un circuit d'alimentation polyphasé. Le circuit d'alimentation polyphasé peut par exemple être un circuit triphasé ou en variante présenter deux ou au moins quatre phases. Par « phase du circuit », on entend, sauf mention contraire, le conducteur électrique correspondant à ladite phase du circuit électrique.Alternatively, the device may include several conductive portions, a fusible element being connected in series to each of the conductive portions, the initiator being able to be connected to the terminals of the fusible element and the fusible element being able to be configured to trip when the intensity of the current flowing through it exceeds the predetermined value and thereby actuate the initiator. In this case, the cut-off device can be intended to be connected to a polyphase supply circuit. The polyphase supply circuit can for example be a three-phase circuit or alternatively have two or at least four phases. By “circuit phase” is meant, unless otherwise stated, the electrical conductor corresponding to said phase of the electrical circuit.

Lorsqu'il y a plusieurs portions conductrices, toutes les portions conductrices sont simultanément déconnectées électriquement lors du passage du dispositif de la première à la deuxième configuration. Cela permet avantageusement de réaliser une coupure complète et simultanée du courant circulant dans le circuit.When there are several conductive portions, all the conductive portions are simultaneously electrically disconnected when the device changes from the first to the second configuration. This advantageously allows a complete and simultaneous cut of the current flowing in the circuit.

L'invention vise également un système électrique sécurisé selon la revendication 5.The invention also relates to a secure electrical system according to claim 5.

Dans un exemple de réalisation, le système électrique peut en outre comprendre un élément de contrôle du dispositif électrique configuré pour actionner l'initiateur lorsque la valeur d'un paramètre de fonctionnement du dispositif électrique atteint une valeur prédéterminée.In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical system may further comprise an electrical device control element configured to actuate the initiator when the value of an operating parameter of the electrical device reaches a predetermined value.

Cet exemple de réalisation est avantageux afin de réaliser une coupure complète du circuit lorsqu'un dysfonctionnement survient dans le dispositif électrique à alimenter et non plus nécessairement en termes de surintensité du courant circulant dans le circuit.This embodiment is advantageous in order to achieve a complete cut of the circuit when a malfunction occurs in the electrical device to be supplied and no longer necessarily in terms of overcurrent of the current flowing in the circuit.

Le paramètre de fonctionnement peut être la pression ou la température. Ainsi, l'élément de contrôle du dispositif électrique peut être configuré pour actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique lorsque la température du dispositif électrique ou la pression d'une partie au moins du dispositif électrique dépasse une valeur prédéterminée.The operating parameter can be pressure or temperature. Thus, the control element of the electrical device can be configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when the temperature of the electrical device or the pressure of at least part of the electrical device exceeds a predetermined value.

La présente invention vise également un véhicule comprenant au moins un système électrique sécurisé tel que décrit plus haut. Le véhicule peut par exemple être un aéronef, un train ou une automobile.The present invention also relates to a vehicle comprising at least one secure electrical system as described above. The vehicle can for example be an aircraft, a train or an automobile.

La présente invention vise également une installation comprenant au moins un système électrique sécurisé tel que décrit plus haut.The present invention also relates to an installation comprising at least one secure electrical system as described above.

Le dispositif électrique peut par exemple être un moteur de train. En variante, le dispositif électrique peut être une pompe à chaleur ou une installation de puissance.The electrical device can for example be a train engine. Alternatively, the electrical device can be a heat pump or a power installation.

Brève description des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description suivante de modes particuliers de réalisation de l'invention, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, en référence aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente une section d'un premier exemple de dispositif de coupure selon l'invention dans la première configuration,
  • la figure 2 est une vue éclatée montrant différents éléments constitutifs du dispositif de la figure 1,
  • la figure 3 est une vue en perspective du dispositif de coupure de la figure 1 prêt à être relié à un circuit électrique,
  • les figures 4A à 4C illustrent la coupure du courant réalisée par le dispositif de la figure 1, et
  • la figure 5 est un détail d'un deuxième exemple de dispositif de coupure selon l'invention,
  • la figure 5A est un détail d'un troisième exemple de dispositif de coupure (hors invention),
  • la figure 6 représente une section d'un quatrième exemple de dispositif de coupure selon l'invention dans la première configuration,
  • la figure 7A représente une section d'un cinquième exemple de dispositif de coupure (hors invention) dans la première configuration,
  • la figure 7B représente une section du dispositif de coupure de la figure 7A dans la deuxième configuration,
  • la figure 8 représente une vue éclatée montrant différents éléments constitutifs du dispositif illustré aux figures 7A et 7B,
  • la figure 9 représente de manière schématique un exemple de système électrique sécurisé selon l'invention, et
  • la figure 10 représente de manière schématique une variante de système électrique sécurisé selon l'invention.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description of particular embodiments of the invention, given by way of nonlimiting examples, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 represents a section of a first example of a breaking device according to the invention in the first configuration,
  • the figure 2 is an exploded view showing different components of the device of the figure 1 ,
  • the figure 3 is a perspective view of the cut-off device of the figure 1 ready to be connected to an electrical circuit,
  • the Figures 4A to 4C illustrate the power cut made by the device of the figure 1 , and
  • the figure 5 is a detail of a second example of a breaking device according to the invention,
  • the figure 5A is a detail of a third example of a cut-off device (outside the invention),
  • the figure 6 represents a section of a fourth example of a breaking device according to the invention in the first configuration,
  • the figure 7A represents a section of a fifth example of a cut-off device (outside the invention) in the first configuration,
  • the figure 7B represents a section of the cut-off device of the figure 7A in the second configuration,
  • the figure 8 shows an exploded view showing different components of the device illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B ,
  • the figure 9 schematically represents an example of a secure electrical system according to the invention, and
  • the figure 10 shows schematically a variant of a secure electrical system according to the invention.

Description détaillée de modes de réalisationDetailed description of embodiments

La figure 1 est une vue en section d'un exemple de dispositif de coupure 1 selon l'invention. Comme il sera détaillé plus bas, il y a, dans l'exemple de dispositif de coupure 1 illustré à la figure 1, rupture de la portion conductrice lors du passage du dispositif 1 de la première à la deuxième configuration. D'autres arrangements seront décrits dans la suite.The figure 1 is a sectional view of an exemplary switching device 1 according to the invention. As will be detailed below, there is, in the example of switching device 1 illustrated in the figure 1 , rupture of the conductive portion during the passage of the device 1 from the first to the second configuration. Other arrangements will be described below.

A la figure 1, le dispositif 1 est dans la première configuration c'est-à-dire dans une configuration dans laquelle un courant électrique (flèche I) peut circuler dans la phase 10 du circuit d'alimentation et dans la portion conductrice 8. Dans l'exemple illustré, le circuit d'alimentation est monophasé et le dispositif de coupure 1 comprend une unique portion conductrice 8. On ne sort toutefois pas du cadre de l'invention lorsque le circuit comprend une pluralité de phases et le dispositif de coupure une pluralité de portions conductrices, un tel exemple de réalisation étant évoqué dans la suite.To the figure 1 , the device 1 is in the first configuration, that is to say in a configuration in which an electric current (arrow I) can flow in phase 10 of the supply circuit and in the conductive portion 8. In the example illustrated, the supply circuit is single-phase and the cut-off device 1 comprises a single conductive portion 8. It is not, however, outside the scope of the invention when the circuit comprises a plurality of phases and the cut-off device a plurality of portions conductive, such an exemplary embodiment being discussed below.

Le dispositif de coupure 1 comprend un initiateur pyrotechnique 3 comprenant un dispositif d'allumage 9 muni de deux conducteurs électriques 5 (un seul de ces conducteurs étant représenté sur la figure 1, les deux conducteurs 5 étant visibles sur les figures 2 et 3). L'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 comporte en outre un chargement pyrotechnique 4. Le chargement pyrotechnique 4 peut être sous la forme d'un ou plusieurs blocs monolithiques. En variante, le chargement 4 peut être sous forme granulaire. Il va des connaissances générales de l'homme du métier de choisir la nature et les dimensions du chargement pyrotechnique à mettre en œuvre pour l'application de coupure du courant visée.The breaking device 1 comprises a pyrotechnic initiator 3 comprising an ignition device 9 provided with two electrical conductors 5 (only one of these conductors being shown on the figure 1 , the two conductors 5 being visible on the figures 2 and 3 ). The pyrotechnic initiator 3 also comprises a pyrotechnic charge 4. The pyrotechnic charge 4 can be in the form of one or more monolithic blocks. Alternatively, the load 4 can be in granular form. It goes from the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art to choose the nature and the dimensions of the pyrotechnic charge to be used for the intended current cut-off application.

Le dispositif 1 comprend un corps 11 à l'intérieur duquel une première 7 et une deuxième 12 chambres sont présentes. Le corps 11 peut par exemple être formé d'un matériau thermoplastique ou thermodurcissable. L'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 comporte un joint d'étanchéité 6 en matériau élastiquement déformable en appui sur une paroi interne 14 du corps 11. Le dispositif d'allumage 9 est, dans l'exemple illustré, logé dans le corps 11. Le corps 11 présente en outre deux canaux traversants 11a, chacun des conducteurs 5 s'étendant dans un canal 11a distinct. La première chambre 7 constitue une chambre de mise sous pression et est en communication avec une sortie S de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3. L'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 est configuré pour pressuriser la première chambre 7 lorsqu'il est actionné. Dans l'exemple illustré, le chargement pyrotechnique 4 est présent dans la première chambre 7. On ne sort toutefois pas du cadre de l'invention lorsque ce chargement est présent à l'extérieur de la première chambre tant que cette dernière reste en communication avec une sortie de l'initiateur pyrotechnique.The device 1 comprises a body 11 inside which a first 7 and a second 12 chambers are present. The body 11 can for example be formed from a thermoplastic or thermosetting material. The pyrotechnic initiator 3 comprises a seal 6 made of elastically deformable material bearing on an internal wall 14 of the body 11. The ignition device 9 is, in the example illustrated, housed in the body 11. The body 11 further has two through channels 11a, each of the conductors 5 extending in a separate channel 11a. The first chamber 7 constitutes a pressurization chamber and is in communication with an outlet S of the pyrotechnic initiator 3. The pyrotechnic initiator 3 is configured to pressurize the first chamber 7 when it is actuated. In the example illustrated, the pyrotechnic charge 4 is present in the first chamber 7. It is not, however, outside the scope of the invention when this charge is present outside the first chamber as long as the latter remains in communication with an output from the pyrotechnic initiator.

Une portion conductrice de l'électricité 8 est présente dans la deuxième chambre 12 (voir figures 1 et 3 notamment). Les extrémités de la portion conductrice 8 dépassent du corps 11 dans l'exemple illustré. Cette portion conductrice 8 est, dans l'exemple illustré, sous la forme d'une languette. La portion conductrice 8 peut par exemple être en cuivre.An electrically conductive portion 8 is present in the second chamber 12 (see Figures 1 and 3 especially). The ends of the conductive portion 8 protrude from the body 11 in the example illustrated. This conductive portion 8 is, in the example illustrated, in the form of a tab. The conductive portion 8 can for example be made of copper.

La portion conductrice 8 est munie d'un fusible 40 qui est relié en série à cette dernière. L'élément fusible 40 constitue, dans cet exemple, un élément distinct de la portion conductrice 8 qui a été rapporté sur celle-ci. Le fusible 40 peut par exemple être soudé ou clipsé à la portion conductrice 8. Dans l'exemple illustré, le fusible 40 a été soudé avec son enveloppe isolante à la portion conductrice 8. Le fusible 40 comprend ici une âme fusible présente dans une enveloppe isolante de l'électricité. L'enveloppe isolante peut renfermer une poudre d'un matériau isolant de l'électricité, comme de la silice, à l'intérieur de laquelle est présente l'âme fusible. Le fait d'utiliser une âme fusible avec son enveloppe isolante permet avantageusement d'améliorer la tenue dans le temps de l'âme fusible, et d'améliorer ainsi davantage encore la fiabilité du dispositif de coupure. En outre, dans cet exemple, le fusible 40 est présent dans la deuxième chambre 12 laquelle est présente à l'intérieur du corps 11.The conductive portion 8 is provided with a fuse 40 which is connected in series to the latter. The fuse element 40 constitutes, in this example, a separate element from the conductive portion 8 which has been attached to it. The fuse 40 can for example be welded or clipped to the conductive portion 8. In the example illustrated, the fuse 40 has been welded with its insulating envelope to the conductive portion 8. The fuse 40 here comprises a fusible core present in an insulating envelope for electricity. The insulating envelope may contain a powder of an electrically insulating material, such as silica, inside which the fusible core is present. The fact of using a fusible core with its insulating envelope advantageously makes it possible to improve the resistance over time of the fusible core, and thus to further improve the reliability of the breaking device. Furthermore, in this example, the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12 which is present inside the body 11.

Les conducteurs électriques 5 sont chacun relié à une borne distincte du fusible 40. Plus précisément, la paroi latérale 22 du corps 11 présente des canaux 23a et 23b au travers desquels des conducteurs électriques 24a et 24b s'étendent. Le premier conducteur électrique 24a relie une première borne du fusible 40 à un premier conducteur 5 du dispositif d'allumage 9. Le deuxième conducteur électrique 24b relie une deuxième borne du fusible 40, différente de la première, à un deuxième conducteur 5 du dispositif d'allumage 9 différent du premier conducteur. Ainsi, lorsqu'un courant électrique d'une intensité supérieure à la valeur prédéterminée traverse la phase 10 et la portion conductrice 8, le fusible 40 se déclenche. De ce fait, la résistance aux bornes du fusible 40 augmente engendrant ainsi une différence de potentiel suffisante afin d'actionner le dispositif d'allumage 9 et ainsi réaliser la coupure du courant électrique. Il va des connaissances générales de l'homme du métier de choisir les caractéristiques du fusible à mettre en œuvre afin d'obtenir la coupure au niveau d'intensité souhaité. En particulier, on peut noter que le fusible n'a pas besoin de tenir une tension élevée ce qui permet d'utiliser des fusibles ayant une tension de claquage relativement faible. Le dispositif de coupure peut être utilisé dans un système mettant en œuvre une tension inférieure à 100 V, par exemple.The electrical conductors 5 are each connected to a separate terminal of the fuse 40. More specifically, the side wall 22 of the body 11 has channels 23a and 23b through which electrical conductors 24a and 24b extend. The first electrical conductor 24a connects a first terminal of the fuse 40 to a first conductor 5 of the ignition device 9. The second electrical conductor 24b connects a second terminal of the fuse 40, different from the first, to a second conductor 5 of the device d ignition 9 different from the first driver. Thus, when an electric current of an intensity greater than the predetermined value passes through phase 10 and the conductive portion 8, the fuse 40 is triggered. As a result, the resistance across the terminals of the fuse 40 increases, thereby generating a sufficient potential difference in order to actuate the ignition device 9 and thus cut off the electric current. It is general knowledge of a person skilled in the art to choose the characteristics of the fuse to be used in order to obtain the cut-out at the desired intensity level. In particular, it can be noted that the fuse does not need to hold a high voltage, which makes it possible to use fuses having a relatively low breakdown voltage. The cut-off device can be used in a system implementing a voltage of less than 100 V, for example.

On peut avantageusement placer au moins une résistance ou une diode en série (non représentée) sur la ligne reliant le fusible 40 au dispositif d'allumage 9 afin de réduire l'intensité circulant dans le dispositif d'allumage 9 et donc éviter toute dégradation de ce dernier en présence du courant nominal.It is advantageously possible to place at least one resistor or a diode in series (not shown) on the line connecting the fuse 40 to the ignition device 9 in order to reduce the intensity flowing in the ignition device 9 and therefore avoid any degradation of the latter in the presence of the nominal current.

La portion conductrice 8 est présente sur un support 18. Le support 18 a, dans l'exemple illustré, une structure de tiroir destiné à être engagé dans une ouverture 22a de la paroi latérale 22 du corps 11. Le support 18 définit un relief en creux 20 situé en dessous de la portion conductrice 8 lorsque le dispositif 1 est dans la première configuration. Le support 18 présente une rainure 19 dans laquelle est logée la portion conductrice 8. La portion conductrice 8 est destinée reliée à une phase 10 du circuit d'alimentation. Cette liaison peut par exemple être effectuée par soudure. Les extrémités de la portion conductrice 8 sont reliées à une phase 10 du circuit d'alimentation.The conductive portion 8 is present on a support 18. The support 18 has, in the example illustrated, a drawer structure intended to be engaged in an opening 22a of the side wall 22 of the body 11. The support 18 defines a relief in hollow 20 located below the conductive portion 8 when the device 1 is in the first configuration. The support 18 has a groove 19 in which the conductive portion 8 is housed. The conductive portion 8 is intended connected to a phase 10 of the supply circuit. This connection can for example be carried out by welding. The ends of the conductive portion 8 are connected to a phase 10 of the supply circuit.

L'exemple de dispositif 1 de la figure 1 comporte en outre un élément de coupure mobile 15 formé d'un matériau isolant de l'électricité, par exemple de Polyétheréthercétone (PEEK GF40) ou sulfure de polyphénylène (PPS). L'élément de coupure 15 sépare de manière étanche la première chambre 7 de la deuxième chambre 12. L'élément de coupure 15 est situé entre la première 7 et la deuxième 12 chambres. L'élément de coupure 15 présente au moins un relief 17 en regard de la portion conductrice 8. L'élément de coupure 15 présente un joint d'étanchéité 16 formé d'un matériau élastiquement déformable lequel est en appui sur une paroi latérale 22 du corps 11. La paroi latérale 22 entoure les première 7 et deuxième 12 chambres. La paroi latérale 22 du corps 11 définit un volume intérieur dans lequel les première 7 et deuxième 12 chambres sont présentes et en particulier dans lequel le fusible 40 est présent. Plus précisément, dans l'exemple illustré le fusible 40 est présent dans la deuxième chambre 12. Le relief 17 est sous la forme d'une portion de surépaisseur. Dans l'exemple illustré, l'élément de coupure 15 présente un unique relief 17 destiné à rompre la portion conductrice 8. L'invention n'est pas limitée à une forme particulière pour l'extrémité distale 17b du relief 17 tant que le relief 17 est apte à rompre la portion conductrice 8 par impact avec cette dernière. L'extrémité distale 17b du relief 17 peut ainsi par exemple présenter une forme plane comme illustré ou encore une forme pointue ou arrondie. Comme il sera détaillé plus bas, l'élément de coupure 15 est configuré pour se déplacer le long de l'axe de déplacement X suite à l'actionnement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3. Lorsque le dispositif 1 est dans la première configuration, le relief en creux 20, la portion conductrice 8 et le relief 17 sont superposés le long de l'axe X.The example of device 1 of the figure 1 further comprises a movable cut-off element 15 formed of an electrically insulating material, for example polyetheretherketone (PEEK GF40) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). The cutting element 15 sealingly separates the first chamber 7 from the second chamber 12. The cutting element 15 is located between the first 7 and the second 12 chambers. The cut-off element 15 has at least one relief 17 opposite the conductive portion 8. The cut-off element 15 has a seal 16 formed of an elastically deformable material which is supported on a side wall 22 of the body 11. The side wall 22 surrounds the first 7 and second 12 chambers. The side wall 22 of the body 11 defines an interior volume in which the first 7 and second 12 chambers are present and in particular in which the fuse 40 is present. More specifically, in the example illustrated, the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12. The relief 17 is in the form of a portion of extra thickness. In the example illustrated, the cutting element 15 has a single relief 17 intended to break the conductive portion 8. The invention is not limited to a particular shape for the distal end 17b of the relief 17 as long as the relief 17 is able to break the conductive portion 8 by impact with the latter. The distal end 17b of the relief 17 can thus for example have a planar shape as illustrated or even a pointed or rounded shape. As will be detailed below, the cut-off element 15 is configured to move along the axis of movement X following the actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator 3. When the device 1 is in the first configuration, the recessed relief 20, the conductive portion 8 and the relief 17 are superimposed along the axis X.

Un exemple de montage des différents éléments du dispositif de coupure 1 illustré aux figures 1 à 3 va à présent être décrit.An example of assembly of the various elements of the breaking device 1 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will now be described.

Dans un premier temps, le corps 11 est surmoulé sur l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3. L'élément de coupure 15 est ensuite inséré en force au travers du fond 25. Comme illustré à la figure 2, l'élément de coupure 15 présente un relief de positionnement 26, ici sous la forme d'une échancrure, destiné à coopérer avec un relief présent sur la paroi interne du corps. Cette coopération permet de bloquer en rotation l'élément de coupure 15 et d'éviter ainsi que ce dernier ne tourne autour de l'axe X lorsque la première chambre 7 est mise sous pression par l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3. La portion conductrice portant le fusible 40 est ensuite placée dans la rainure 19 du support 18. Le support 18 est ensuite inséré au travers d'une ouverture 22a de la paroi latérale 22 du corps 11 transversalement par rapport à l'axe de déplacement X et les fils 24a et 24b sont ensuite soudés aux bornes du fusible 40. Le dispositif de coupure 1 illustré à la figure 3 est ainsi obtenu lequel est prêt à être relié à un circuit d'alimentation par exemple par soudure de la phase 10 sur la portion conductrice 8.Initially, the body 11 is molded onto the pyrotechnic initiator 3. The cut-off element 15 is then forcefully inserted through the bottom 25. As illustrated in the figure 2 , the cutting element 15 has a positioning relief 26, here in the form of a notch, intended to cooperate with a relief present on the internal wall of the body. This cooperation makes it possible to block the cutting element 15 in rotation and thus prevent the latter from rotating around the axis X when the first chamber 7 is pressurized by the pyrotechnic initiator 3. The conductive portion carrying the fuse 40 is then placed in the groove 19 of the support 18. The support 18 is then inserted through an opening 22a in the side wall 22 of the body 11 transversely to the axis of movement X and the wires 24a and 24b are then soldered to the terminals of fuse 40. The breaking device 1 illustrated in figure 3 This is thus obtained which is ready to be connected to a supply circuit, for example by soldering phase 10 on the conductive portion 8.

La coupure du courant électrique par le dispositif de coupure 1 de la figure 1 va à présent être décrite en lien avec les figures 4A à 4C.The cut of the electric current by the cut-off device 1 of the figure 1 will now be described in connection with Figures 4A to 4C .

Le dispositif 1 est initialement dans la première configuration dans laquelle un courant électrique (flèche I) peut circuler dans la phase 10 et dans la portion conductrice 8 (le fusible 40 est passant). Lorsque le dispositif 1 est dans la première configuration, l'élément de coupure 15 est dans une première position, dite position haute. Lorsque l'intensité du courant qui traverse la portion conductrice 8 dépasse la valeur prédéterminée, le fusible 40 se déclenche. Ainsi, la résistance aux bornes du fusible augmente, ce qui permet d'actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique. L'actionnement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 permet de faire passer le dispositif de coupure de la première configuration à une deuxième configuration dans laquelle la circulation du courant électrique dans la portion conductrice 8 est interrompue (portion conductrice déconnectée). Plus précisément, l'actionnement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique permet de réaliser la combustion d'un ou plusieurs chargements 4 pyrotechniques afin de générer un gaz de combustion (flèches F) lequel va pressuriser la première chambre 7 (voir figure 4A). Cette pressurisation de la première chambre 7 met en mouvement l'élément de coupure 15 vers la portion conductrice 8. L'élément de coupure mobile 15 est configuré pour ne pas être rompu lors de la pressurisation de la première chambre 7 par l'initiateur pyrotechnique. Dans l'exemple illustré, l'élément de coupure 15 est configuré pour se déplacer sans se déformer lors du passage du dispositif 1 de la première configuration à la deuxième configuration. L'élément de coupure 15 est animé d'un mouvement de translation le long de l'axe X en direction de la portion conductrice 8 lors du passage de la première configuration à la deuxième configuration. En particulier, du fait de la présence du relief de positionnement 26, le mouvement de l'élément de coupure 15 ne comporte pas de composante de rotation autour de l'axe X lors du passage de la première à la deuxième configuration. Suite à son déplacement, l'élément de coupure 15 impacte la portion conductrice 8 et rompt ainsi cette dernière (voir figures 4B et 4C). Cette rupture de la portion conductrice 8 en plusieurs parties 8a et 8b distinctes permet d'empêcher la circulation du courant électrique et donc de garantir la sécurité du système. L'élément de coupure est configuré comme illustré pour venir impacter la portion conductrice 8 transversalement, par exemple perpendiculairement, à la direction de circulation du courant électrique dans cette portion 8. Dans l'exemple illustré, le relief 17 est logé dans le relief en creux 20 du support 18 lorsque le dispositif 1 est dans la deuxième configuration, le relief 17 venant ainsi en butée sur le fond du relief en creux 20. Lorsque le dispositif est dans la deuxième configuration, l'élément de coupure 15 est dans une deuxième position, dite position basse et le courant est coupé. Cet exemple de dispositif selon l'invention peut avantageusement permettre de réaliser une coupure du courant particulièrement rapide, par exemple en environ 0,2 ms. Dans l'exemple illustré, le relief 17 impacte la portion conductrice au niveau d'une zone distincte de celle où le fusible 40 est présent. L'initiateur peut être choisi pour présenter une isolation diélectrique après fonctionnement supérieure à la tension du système.The device 1 is initially in the first configuration in which an electric current (arrow I) can flow in phase 10 and in the conductive portion 8 (the fuse 40 is on). When the device 1 is in the first configuration, the cut-off element 15 is in a first position, called the high position. When the intensity of the current flowing through the conductive portion 8 exceeds the predetermined value, the fuse 40 trips. Thus, the resistance at the terminals of the fuse increases, which makes it possible to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator. The actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator 3 allows the switching device to pass from the first configuration to a second configuration in which the circulation of electric current in the conductive portion 8 is interrupted (conductive portion disconnected). More precisely, the actuation of the pyrotechnic initiator allows the combustion of one or more pyrotechnic charges 4 in order to generate a combustion gas (arrows F) which will pressurize the first chamber 7 (see figure 4A ). This pressurization of the first chamber 7 sets in motion the cut-off element 15 towards the conductive portion 8. The movable cut-off element 15 is configured not to be broken during the pressurization of the first chamber 7 by the pyrotechnic initiator . In the example illustrated, the cut-off element 15 is configured to move without deforming when the device 1 passes from the first configuration to the second configuration. The cutting element 15 is driven in a translational movement along the axis X in the direction of the conductive portion 8 during the transition from the first configuration to the second configuration. In particular, due to the presence of the positioning relief 26, the movement of the cut-off element 15 does not include a component of rotation about the axis X during the transition from the first to the second configuration. Following its movement, the cutting element 15 impacts the conductive portion 8 and thus breaks the latter (see Figures 4B and 4C ). This breaking of the conductive portion 8 into several separate parts 8a and 8b makes it possible to prevent the flow of electric current and therefore to guarantee the security of the system. The breaking element is configured as illustrated to impact the conductive portion 8 transversely, for example perpendicularly, to the direction of circulation of the electric current in this portion 8. In the example illustrated, the relief 17 is housed in the relief in hollow 20 of the support 18 when the device 1 is in the second configuration, the relief 17 thus abutting on the bottom of the hollow relief 20. When the device is in the second configuration, the cut-off element 15 is in a second position, called the low position and the current is cut. This example of a device according to the invention can advantageously make it possible to produce a particularly rapid power cut, for example in approximately 0.2 ms. In the example illustrated, the relief 17 impacts the conductive portion at a region separate from that where the fuse 40 is present. The initiator can be chosen to present dielectric insulation after operation greater than the system voltage.

Une opération de maintenance peut être effectuée après coupure du circuit d'alimentation afin de retirer le dispositif de coupure dans la deuxième configuration et le remplacer par un dispositif de coupure dans la première configuration. L'alimentation du dispositif électrique par le circuit d'alimentation peut ensuite reprise.A maintenance operation can be performed after cutting the supply circuit in order to remove the cut-off device in the second configuration and replace it with a break in the first configuration. The supply of the electrical device by the supply circuit can then resume.

L'exemple de dispositif de coupure 1 qui vient d'être décrit en lien avec les figures 1 à 3 et 4A à 4C est tel que (i) la coupure du courant est effectuée par rupture de la portion conductrice 8 lors de l'impact de celle-ci avec l'élément de coupure mobile 15, et (ii) le fusible 40 est présent dans la deuxième chambre 12 dans laquelle la portion conductrice 8 est présente. D'autres configurations sont envisageables dans le cadre de la présente invention comme il sera décrit plus bas.The example of switching device 1 which has just been described in connection with the Figures 1 to 3 and 4A to 4C is such that (i) the current is cut off by breaking the conductive portion 8 during the impact of the latter with the movable breaking element 15, and (ii) the fuse 40 is present in the second chamber 12 in which the conductive portion 8 is present. Other configurations can be envisaged in the context of the present invention as will be described below.

On a représenté à la figure 5 un détail d'un dispositif de coupure selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention. Dans cette variante, le dispositif de coupure comporte une pluralité de portions conductrices 80. Le dispositif de coupure comprenant cette pluralité de portions conductrices peut être destiné à être relié à un circuit polyphasé. Dans l'exemple illustré, le dispositif de coupure est destiné à être relié à un circuit triphasé. Le nombre de portions conductrices 80 du dispositif de coupure peut être égal au nombre de phases du circuit. Chacune des portions conductrices 80 est destinée à être reliée à une phase distincte de ce circuit. Chaque portion conductrice 80 présente un fusible 40 qui lui est relié en série. Le reste du dispositif de coupure peut être similaire à celui décrit à la figure 1 à la différence que l'initiateur pyrotechnique présente une pluralité de dispositifs d'allumage chacun relié aux bornes d'un fusible distinct. Les portions conductrices 80 sont espacées les unes des autres d'une distance non nulle. Dans ce cas, le relief de l'élément de coupure est destiné à rompre simultanément les différentes portions conductrices 80 lors de l'actionnement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique. De la même manière que décrit plus haut, lorsqu'un courant électrique d'une intensité supérieure à la valeur prédéterminée traverse une des phases, la résistance aux bornes du fusible associé à cette phase augmente engendrant ainsi une différence de potentiel suffisante aux bornes du fusible afin d'actionner le dispositif d'allumage relié à ce fusible et réaliser ainsi la coupure du courant électrique. Dans le cas où le circuit est polyphasé, la mise en œuvre d'un tel dispositif de coupure permet avantageusement d'éviter les situations dans lesquelles au moins une phase reste passante après coupure d'une autre phase étant donné qu'après actionnement du dispositif de coupure toutes les portions conductrices sont simultanément rompues, empêchant ainsi toute circulation de courant dans le circuit.We represented at the figure 5 a detail of a switching device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this variant, the breaking device comprises a plurality of conducting portions 80. The breaking device comprising this plurality of conducting portions can be intended to be connected to a polyphase circuit. In the example illustrated, the breaking device is intended to be connected to a three-phase circuit. The number of conductive portions 80 of the breaking device can be equal to the number of phases of the circuit. Each of the conductive portions 80 is intended to be connected to a separate phase of this circuit. Each conductive portion 80 has a fuse 40 which is connected to it in series. The rest of the cut-off device can be similar to that described in the figure 1 with the difference that the pyrotechnic initiator has a plurality of ignition devices each connected to the terminals of a separate fuse. The conductive portions 80 are spaced from each other by a non-zero distance. In this case, the relief of the cut-off element is intended to break the various conductive portions 80 simultaneously when the pyrotechnic initiator is actuated. In the same way as described above, when an electric current of an intensity greater than the predetermined value passes through one of the phases, the resistance at the terminals of the fuse associated with this phase increases, thereby generating a sufficient potential difference at the terminals of the fuse in order to activate the ignition device connected to this fuse and thus cut off the electric current. In the case where the circuit is polyphase, the implementation of such a cut-off device advantageously makes it possible to avoid situations in which at least one phase remains on after switching off another phase, given that after actuation of the device cutting all portions conductors are simultaneously broken, thus preventing any flow of current in the circuit.

On a représenté à la figure 5A un détail d'un dispositif de coupure hors invention. Dans cet exemple, la portion conductrice 90 est formée d'un seul et même matériau et présente une zone amincie 140 de largeur réduite et éventuellement d'épaisseur réduite. Cette zone amincie 140 est configurée pour fondre lorsque l'intensité du courant qui traverse la portion conductrice 90 dépasse la valeur prédéterminée. Un initiateur est par ailleurs relié aux bornes de la zone amincie 140 de sorte à déclencher la coupure du courant lorsque la résistance de la zone amincie 140 augmente, d'une manière similaire à celle décrite plus haut. Dans ce cas, l'élément fusible est constitué par une striction de la portion conductrice elle-même, sans avoir à rapporter un élément fusible tiers en série avec celle-ci.We represented at the figure 5A a detail of a cut-off device outside the invention. In this example, the conductive portion 90 is formed from a single material and has a thinned area 140 of reduced width and possibly of reduced thickness. This thinned area 140 is configured to melt when the intensity of the current flowing through the conductive portion 90 exceeds the predetermined value. An initiator is also connected to the terminals of the thinned area 140 so as to trigger the cut-off of the current when the resistance of the thinned area 140 increases, in a similar manner to that described above. In this case, the fusible element is constituted by a necking of the conductive portion itself, without having to attach a third fusible element in series with it.

On a représenté à la figure 6 une variante de dispositif de coupure 111 selon l'invention dans la première configuration c'est-à-dire dans une configuration dans laquelle un courant électrique (flèche I) peut circuler dans la phase 110 du circuit d'alimentation et dans la portion conductrice 180. Dans l'exemple illustré, le dispositif 1 comprend un corps 114 à l'intérieur duquel sont présentes : une première chambre 7, une deuxième chambre 12 et une troisième chambre 128. L'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 présente la même structure que dans l'exemple de la figure 1 et les même références numériques ont été reprises à la figure 6 pour désigner les mêmes éléments qu'à la figure 1.We represented at the figure 6 a variant of switching device 111 according to the invention in the first configuration, that is to say in a configuration in which an electric current (arrow I) can flow in phase 110 of the supply circuit and in the conductive portion 180. In the example illustrated, the device 1 comprises a body 114 inside which are present: a first chamber 7, a second chamber 12 and a third chamber 128. The pyrotechnic initiator 3 has the same structure as in the example of figure 1 and the same reference numbers were used at the figure 6 to designate the same elements as in the figure 1 .

La première chambre 7 constitue une chambre de mise sous pression et est en communication avec une sortie S de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3. Dans l'exemple de la figure 6, une portion conductrice de l'électricité 180 est présente dans la deuxième chambre 12. Toutefois, à la différence de l'exemple de la figure 1, l'élément fusible n'est pas présent dans la deuxième chambre 12. En effet, dans cet exemple, le dispositif 111 comprend une troisième chambre 128 dans laquelle sont présents un élément fusible 130 ainsi qu'une poudre 131 d'un matériau isolant de l'électricité. L'élément fusible 130 est ici présent à l'intérieur de la poudre 131 isolante. Une telle configuration permet d'améliorer davantage encore la fiabilité du dispositif de coupure, en améliorant la tenue dans le temps de l'âme fusible. Le matériau isolant de l'électricité peut par exemple être de la silice. L'élément fusible 130 peut être constitué par l'âme fusible d'un fusible commercial qui a été séparée de son enveloppe isolante. L'élément fusible 130 est relié à la phase 110 du circuit par l'intermédiaire du connecteur électrique 110a et cet élément 130 est, en outre, relié en série à la portion conductrice 180 par l'intermédiaire du connecteur électrique 180a. La portion conductrice 180 est, quant à elle, reliée à la phase 110 du circuit afin de permettre, en fonctionnement normal, la circulation d'un courant électrique dans le circuit au travers du dispositif de coupure 111.The first chamber 7 constitutes a pressurization chamber and is in communication with an outlet S of the pyrotechnic initiator 3. In the example of the figure 6 , an electrically conductive portion 180 is present in the second chamber 12. However, unlike the example of the figure 1 , the fusible element is not present in the second chamber 12. Indeed, in this example, the device 111 comprises a third chamber 128 in which are present a fusible element 130 as well as a powder 131 of an insulating material electricity. The fusible element 130 is here present inside the insulating powder 131. Such a configuration makes it possible to further improve the reliability of the breaking device, by improving the resistance over time of the fusible core. The electrically insulating material can for example be silica. The fuse element 130 may be constituted by the fuse core of a commercial fuse which has been separated from its insulating envelope. The fusible element 130 is connected to phase 110 of the circuit via the electrical connector 110a and this element 130 is, in addition, connected in series to the conductive portion 180 via the electrical connector 180a. The conductive portion 180 is, for its part, connected to phase 110 of the circuit in order to allow, in normal operation, the circulation of an electric current in the circuit through the breaking device 111.

Par ailleurs, les conducteurs électriques 5 sont chacun relié à une borne distincte de l'élément fusible 130. Comme dans l'exemple de la figure 1, la paroi latérale 122 du corps 114 présente des canaux 123a et 123b au travers desquels des conducteurs électriques 124a et 124b s'étendent. Le premier conducteur électrique 124a relie une première borne de l'élément fusible 130 à un premier conducteur 5 du dispositif d'allumage 9. Le deuxième conducteur électrique 124b relie une deuxième borne de l'élément fusible 130, différente de la première, à un deuxième conducteur 5 du dispositif d'allumage 9 différent du premier conducteur. Ainsi, lorsqu'un courant électrique d'une intensité supérieure à la valeur prédéterminée traverse la phase 110, la résistance aux bornes de l'âme fusible augmente engendrant ainsi une différence de potentiel suffisante afin d'actionner le dispositif d'allumage 9 et ainsi réaliser la coupure du courant électrique. De la même manière que dans l'exemple de la figure 1, l'actionnement du dispositif d'allumage 9 permet de mettre en mouvement l'élément de coupure mobile 15 lequel va rompre la portion conductrice 8 par impact avec cette dernière afin d'interrompre la circulation du courant électrique dans le circuit.Furthermore, the electrical conductors 5 are each connected to a separate terminal of the fuse element 130. As in the example of the figure 1 , the side wall 122 of the body 114 has channels 123a and 123b through which electrical conductors 124a and 124b extend. The first electrical conductor 124a connects a first terminal of the fuse element 130 to a first conductor 5 of the ignition device 9. The second electrical conductor 124b connects a second terminal of the fuse element 130, different from the first, to a second conductor 5 of the ignition device 9 different from the first conductor. Thus, when an electric current of an intensity greater than the predetermined value passes through phase 110, the resistance at the terminals of the fusible core increases, thus generating a sufficient potential difference in order to actuate the ignition device 9 and thus cut off the electrical current. In the same way as in the example of the figure 1 , actuation of the ignition device 9 makes it possible to set in motion the movable cut-off element 15 which will break the conductive portion 8 by impact with the latter in order to interrupt the circulation of the electric current in the circuit.

Dans l'exemple de la figure 6, les première 7, deuxième 12 et troisième 128 chambres sont superposées. La deuxième chambre 12 est positionnée entre la première chambre 7 et la troisième chambre 128 dans cet exemple. La portion conductrice 180 est présente sur un support 118 ayant une structure de tiroir similaire à celle décrite en lien avec les figures 1 à 3. Dans l'exemple de la figure 6 toutefois, les canaux 123a et 123b se prolongent au travers du tiroir 118 de manière à pouvoir relier les connecteurs 5 aux bornes de l'élément fusible 130.In the example of the figure 6 , the first 7, second 12 and third 128 rooms are superimposed. The second chamber 12 is positioned between the first chamber 7 and the third chamber 128 in this example. The conductive portion 180 is present on a support 118 having a drawer structure similar to that described in connection with the Figures 1 to 3 . In the example of the figure 6 however, the channels 123a and 123b extend through the drawer 118 so as to be able to connect the connectors 5 to the terminals of the fuse element 130.

L'actionnement de l'initiateur se traduit par la mise en mouvement de l'élément de coupure mobile 15 vers la portion conductrice 180 afin de rompre cette dernière, d'une manière analogue à celle décrite aux figures 4A à 4C.The actuation of the initiator results in the movement of the movable cut-off element 15 towards the conductive portion 180 in order to break the latter, in a manner similar to that described in Figures 4A to 4C .

Les exemples qui viennent d'être décrits réalisent une déconnexion de la portion conductrice par rupture de cette dernière par l'élément de coupure mobile. Il va à présent être décrit, en lien avec les figures 7A, 7B et 8, un exemple de dispositif de coupure hors invention dans lequel la déconnexion de la portion conductrice est effectuée d'une manière différente.The examples which have just been described bring about a disconnection of the conductive portion by breaking of the latter by the movable breaking element. It will now be described, in connection with the Figures 7A, 7B and 8 , an example of a switching device outside the invention in which the disconnection of the conductive portion is carried out in a different manner.

Le dispositif de coupure 211 comporte un corps creux 216 en matériau électriquement isolant délimitant une cavité 219, un initiateur pyrotechnique 223 et une portion conductrice comprenant deux plots conducteurs électriques primaires 213, 214 qui débouchent dans la cavité 219. Dans cet exemple, la portion conductrice comprend ainsi un premier élément conducteur de l'électricité (plot conducteur 213) et un deuxième élément conducteur de l'électricité (plot conducteur 214). Le premier 213 et le deuxième 214 éléments conducteurs de l'électricité sont décalés le long de l'axe longitudinal Y de la cavité 219 dans l'exemple illustré.The breaking device 211 comprises a hollow body 216 of electrically insulating material delimiting a cavity 219, a pyrotechnic initiator 223 and a conductive portion comprising two primary electrical conductive pads 213, 214 which open into the cavity 219. In this example, the conductive portion thus comprises a first electrically conductive element (conductive pad 213) and a second electrically conductive element (conductive pad 214). The first 213 and the second 214 electrically conductive elements are offset along the longitudinal axis Y of the cavity 219 in the example illustrated.

Le dispositif de coupure 211 comprend également un élément de coupure mobile 220 configuré pour se déplacer dans la cavité 219. Dans l'exemple, la cavité 219 est cylindrique et l'élément de coupure mobile 220 est lui-même essentiellement cylindrique. L'élément de coupure mobile 220 comprend, dans l'exemple illustré, une première partie formée d'un matériau isolant de l'électricité et une deuxième partie formée d'un matériau conducteur de l'électricité. L'élément de coupure mobile 220 comprend un tube fendu 221 qui comporte au moins un élément conducteur de l'électricité. Dans l'exemple illustré sur les figures 7A, 7B et 8, le tube fendu 221 est entièrement conducteur de l'électricité. Le tube fendu 221 présente une fente 229. L'élément de coupure mobile 220 comprend en outre un tiroir coulissant 222 en matériau isolant de l'électricité formant un piston, adapté à se déplacer à l'intérieur de la cavité, de façon à entraîner avec lui le tube fendu 221. On pourrait en variante utiliser un élément de coupure mobile entièrement formé d'un matériau conducteur de l'électricité dans l'exemple de dispositif de coupure illustré à la figure 7A. Un tel élément pourrait comprendre une première partie formant tube similaire au tube conducteur 221 illustré et une deuxième partie sous forme de disque s'étendant transversalement par rapport à l'axe Y et obstruant la première partie.The cut-off device 211 also comprises a movable cut-off element 220 configured to move in the cavity 219. In the example, the cavity 219 is cylindrical and the movable cut-off element 220 is itself essentially cylindrical. The movable breaking element 220 comprises, in the example illustrated, a first part formed of an electrically insulating material and a second part formed of an electrically conductive material. The movable cut-off element 220 comprises a split tube 221 which includes at least one electrically conductive element. In the example illustrated on Figures 7A, 7B and 8 , the split tube 221 is fully conductive of electricity. The split tube 221 has a slot 229. The movable cut-off element 220 further comprises a sliding drawer 222 made of an electrically insulating material forming a piston, adapted to move inside the cavity, so as to entrain with it the split tube 221. One could alternatively use a movable cut-off element entirely formed of an electrically conductive material in the example of cut-off device illustrated in the figure 7A . Such an element could comprise a first part forming a tube similar to the conductive tube 221 illustrated and a second part in the form of a disc extending transversely with respect to the Y axis and obstructing the first part.

Lorsque le dispositif 211 est dans la première configuration telle qu'illustrée à la figure 7A, le tube fendu 221 (troisième élément conducteur) assure la connexion électrique entre les plots 213 et 214 (premier et deuxième éléments conducteurs). Cela permet au courant de circuler dans le circuit au travers de la portion conductrice du dispositif de coupure 211.When the device 211 is in the first configuration as illustrated in the figure 7A , the split tube 221 (third conductive element) provides the electrical connection between the studs 213 and 214 (first and second conductive elements). This allows current to flow in the circuit through the conductive portion of the cutoff device 211.

Selon l'exemple, l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223 comprend un générateur de gaz pyrotechnique, connu en soi, installé dans le corps creux de façon à communiquer avec la cavité 219. Une chambre de mise sous pression 225 est définie entre l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223 et l'une des faces d'extrémité axiales du piston 222. Dans l'exemple, plus particulièrement, le piston 222 comporte une cavité 226 dans sa face amont, dirigée vers l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223, et cette cavité 226 constitue une partie de la chambre de mise sous pression 225. Dans la position initiale où le tiroir coulissant 222 est pratiquement au contact de l'initiateur 223, c'est-à-dire avec la chambre de mise sous pression 225 réduite à son volume minimum, les deux plots conducteurs électriques 213, 214 sont reliés électriquement entre eux, via le tube fendu 221 dans une première position, dite initiale. Le contact électrique étant réalisé par l'intermédiaire du troisième élément conducteur (ici le tube fendu 221), comme mentionné plus haut.According to the example, the pyrotechnic initiator 223 comprises a pyrotechnic gas generator, known per se, installed in the hollow body so as to communicate with the cavity 219. A pressurization chamber 225 is defined between the pyrotechnic initiator 223 and one of the axial end faces of the piston 222. In the example, more particularly, the piston 222 comprises a cavity 226 in its upstream face, directed towards the pyrotechnic initiator 223, and this cavity 226 constitutes a part of the pressurizing chamber 225. In the initial position where the sliding drawer 222 is practically in contact with the initiator 223, that is to say with the pressurizing chamber 225 reduced to its minimum volume, both electrical conductor pads 213, 214 are electrically connected to each other, via the split tube 221 in a first position, called the initial position. The electrical contact being made via the third conductive element (here the split tube 221), as mentioned above.

Les deux plots conducteurs comportent deux bagues coaxiales 213a, 214a décalées axialement le long de l'axe Y (correspondant à la direction de déplacement de l'élément de coupure mobile 220) et ces bagues 213a, 214a sont au moins en contact serré avec la partie conductrice de l'élément de coupure mobile (ici le tube fendu 221) lorsqu'il se trouve dans ladite première position. Dans l'exemple, les faces internes des bagues 213a, 214a affleurent la paroi de la cavité 219. Avantageusement, dans ladite première position, le tube fendu 221 est engagé par emboîtement forcé entre les bagues 213a, 214a desdits plots conducteurs primaires 213, 214, ce qui permet de garantir une excellente liaison électrique entre lesdits plots conducteurs primaires pendant toute la période précédant l'actionnement du dispositif de coupure 211.The two conductive pads have two coaxial rings 213a, 214a offset axially along the axis Y (corresponding to the direction of movement of the movable breaking element 220) and these rings 213a, 214a are at least in close contact with the conductive part of the movable cut-off element (here the split tube 221) when it is in said first position. In the example, the internal faces of the rings 213a, 214a are flush with the wall of the cavity 219. Advantageously, in said first position, the split tube 221 is engaged by forced interlocking between the rings 213a, 214a of said primary conductive pads 213, 214 , which guarantees an excellent electrical connection between said primary conductive pads throughout the period preceding the actuation of the switching device 211.

Comme illustré à la figure 8, l'une des bagues 213a présente dans l'exemple illustré un fusible 240 qui lui est relié en série. Le fusible 240 est, dans l'exemple illustré, intégré à la bague 213a avec son enveloppe isolante. On décrit toutefois la mise en œuvre d'un élément fusible formé uniquement par l'âme fusible d'un fusible commercial (sans son enveloppe isolante) ou par une zone amincie de la bague, d'une manière similaire à ce qui a été décrit plus haut. La partie formant support 212 de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223 comprend deux canaux traversants 212a et 212b. Un premier conducteur électrique 240a s'étend au travers d'un premier canal 212a de manière à relier un premier conducteur électrique 223a de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223 à une première borne du fusible 240. De la même manière un deuxième conducteur électrique 240b s'étend au travers d'un deuxième canal 212b de manière à relier un deuxième conducteur électrique 223b de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223, différent du premier conducteur 223a, à une deuxième borne du fusible 240 différente de la première. Ainsi, lorsqu'un courant d'une intensité supérieure à la valeur prédéterminée traverse la bague 213a, la résistance du fusible 240 augmente de sorte à créer à ses bornes une différence de potentiel suffisante pour pouvoir actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223. En variante ou en combinaison, un élément fusible relié à l'initiateur pyrotechnique pourrait être présent sur le plot électrique 214 en étant relié en série à ce dernier.As illustrated in figure 8 , one of the rings 213a has in the illustrated example a fuse 240 which is connected to it in series. The fuse 240 is, in the example illustrated, integrated into the ring 213a with its insulating envelope. However, the implementation of a fuse element formed solely by the fuse core of a commercial fuse (without its insulating jacket) or by a thinned zone of the ring, is described in a manner similar to what has been described. upper. The support portion 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator 223 includes two through channels 212a and 212b. A first electrical conductor 240a extends through a first channel 212a so as to connect a first electrical conductor 223a of the pyrotechnic initiator 223 to a first terminal of the fuse 240. In the same way a second electrical conductor 240b s' extends through a second channel 212b so as to connect a second electrical conductor 223b of the pyrotechnic initiator 223, different from the first conductor 223a, to a second terminal of the fuse 240 different from the first. Thus, when a current of an intensity greater than the predetermined value passes through the ring 213a, the resistance of the fuse 240 increases so as to create at its terminals a sufficient potential difference to be able to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator 223. As a variant or in combination, a fuse element connected to the pyrotechnic initiator could be present on the electrical pad 214 by being connected in series to the latter.

Lors de l'actionnement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223, l'élément de coupure mobile 220, et par conséquent le tube fendu 221, se déplace vers une seconde position dans la cavité (figure 7B), suite à la pressurisation de la chambre de mise sous pression 225. Dans cette deuxième position, le tube fendu 221 est dégagé du plot 213, cela permet d'empêcher la connexion électrique entre les deux plots conducteurs 213, 214 et d'interrompre la circulation du courant dans le circuit. Dans l'exemple illustré, lorsque le dispositif 211 est dans la deuxième configuration de coupure (celle illustrée à la figure 7B), le tube fendu 221 est séparé du plot 213 et est en contact avec le plot 214. On décrit aussi le cas où le tube fendu n'est en contact ni avec le plot 213 ni avec le plot 214 lorsque le dispositif est dans la deuxième configuration.When the pyrotechnic initiator 223 is actuated, the mobile cut-off element 220, and consequently the split tube 221, moves to a second position in the cavity ( figure 7B ), following the pressurization of the pressurizing chamber 225. In this second position, the split tube 221 is released from the pad 213, this makes it possible to prevent the electrical connection between the two conductive pads 213, 214 and to interrupt current flow in the circuit. In the example illustrated, when the device 211 is in the second cut-off configuration (that illustrated in the figure 7B ), the split tube 221 is separated from the stud 213 and is in contact with the stud 214. We also describe the case where the split tube is neither in contact with the stud 213 nor with the stud 214 when the device is in the second configuration.

La figure 8 montre comment on peut réaliser de façon simple et économique un dispositif de coupure 211 tel que décrit. Le corps creux 216 est défini par l'assemblage de deux éléments de boîtier 230, 231, respectivement gauche 230 et droit 231. L'élément de boîtier 230 comporte deux trous borgnes taraudés 232 surmontés d'une empreinte ouverte latéralement 233a, 233b et 233c et dont la forme est définie pour accueillir une partie de chaque plot conducteur électrique 213, 214 et une partie du support 212 de l'initiateur pyrotechnique. Chaque plot conducteur électrique comporte une bague 213a et 214a prolongée latéralement par une barre de connexion 213b et 214b faisant saillie à l'extérieur du corps creux isolant de façon à pouvoir être connectée au circuit électrique externe au dispositif de coupure 211. Le second élément de boîtier 231 comporte deux trous traversant 236 permettant l'insertion de vis de fixation 237. De la même manière que le premier élément de boîtier 230, il comprend en outre une empreinte ouverte latéralement 234a, 234b et 234c et dont la forme est définie pour accueillir une partie de chaque plot conducteur électrique 213, 214 et une partie du support 212 de l'initiateur pyrotechnique. Le support 212 est monté entre les deux éléments de boîtier 230, 231 et comprend un perçage 238 qui reçoit à son extrémité l'initiateur 223. L'initiateur 223 est monté à l'intérieur dudit support 212 de façon à définir la chambre de mise sous pression 225 à l'intérieur dudit perçage 238. Comme mentionné précédemment, le tube fendu 221 est engagé à force dans chacune des deux bagues 213a, 214a.The figure 8 shows how a cut-off device 211 as described can be produced in a simple and economical manner. The hollow body 216 is defined by the assembly of two housing elements 230, 231, respectively left 230 and right 231. The housing element 230 comprises two tapped blind holes 232 surmounted by an imprint open laterally 233a, 233b and 233c and the shape is defined to accommodate a part of each electrically conductive pad 213, 214 and a part of the support 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator. Each electrically conductive stud comprises a ring 213a and 214a extended laterally by a connection bar 213b and 214b projecting outside the insulating hollow body so as to be able to be connected to the electrical circuit external to the breaking device 211. The second element of housing 231 has two through holes 236 allowing the insertion of fixing screws 237. In the same way as the first housing element 230, it further comprises an imprint open laterally 234a, 234b and 234c and whose shape is defined to accommodate part of each electrically conductive pad 213, 214 and part of the support 212 of the pyrotechnic initiator. The support 212 is mounted between the two housing elements 230, 231 and comprises a bore 238 which receives at its end the initiator 223. The initiator 223 is mounted inside said support 212 so as to define the setting chamber under pressure 225 inside said bore 238. As mentioned previously, the split tube 221 is forcibly engaged in each of the two rings 213a, 214a.

De cette façon, dans ladite première position, initiale, les deux bagues coaxiales et décalées axialement 213a, 214a sont électriquement connectées par l'intermédiaire du tube métallique fendu 221. Dans l'exemple illustré, le tiroir isolant 222 est inséré à l'intérieur du tube fendu coulissant 221. Une première partie ou partie amont 241, de forme cylindrique, de diamètre sensiblement égal au diamètre de la cavité 219, coulisse le long des faces internes de ladite cavité. Dans sa face amont, dirigée vers le haut sur les figures 7A, 7B et 8, la première partie 241 comporte une cavité 226, ici également sensiblement cylindrique, qui délimite en partie le volume initial de la chambre de mise sous pression 225. Comme il ressort de la figure 8, la première partie 241 comporte deux gorges circonférentielles 261, 262, espacées axialement l'une de l'autre, et recevant chacune un joint d'étanchéité torique 263, 264. Ainsi, le piston 222 ferme la chambre de mise sous pression 225 et permet l'augmentation rapide de pression dans l'environnement clos de cette chambre. Ainsi, les gaz générés dans la chambre de mise sous pression 225 ne s'infiltrent pas vers les bagues conductrices 213a, 214a.In this way, in said first, initial position, the two coaxial and axially offset rings 213a, 214a are electrically connected via the split metal tube 221. In the example illustrated, the insulating drawer 222 is inserted inside of the sliding split tube 221. A first part or upstream part 241, of cylindrical shape, of diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the cavity 219, slides along the internal faces of said cavity. In its upstream face, directed upwards on the Figures 7A, 7B and 8 , the first part 241 comprises a cavity 226, here also substantially cylindrical, which partially delimits the initial volume of the pressurizing chamber 225. As emerges from the figure 8 , the first part 241 comprises two circumferential grooves 261, 262, spaced axially from each other, and each receiving an O-ring seal 263, 264. Thus, the piston 222 closes the pressurization chamber 225 and allows rapid pressure increase in the closed environment of this bedroom. Thus, the gases generated in the pressurizing chamber 225 do not infiltrate towards the conductive rings 213a, 214a.

Une rainure est avantageusement formée dans au moins l'une desdites gorges et configurée pour former un passage calibré pour l'évacuation de l'air hors de la chambre de mise sous pression lors du montage du piston 222 dans le support 212 de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223. Le piston 222, situé au moins pour partie en amont du tube fendu, a pour fonction de transmettre au audit tube 221 l'effort de pression généré par les gaz dans la chambre de mise sous pression 225 et de permettre la coupure du circuit en déplaçant ledit tube 221. La première partie 241 est prolongée par une deuxième partie aval 242, de diamètre légèrement inférieur choisi pour permettre son insertion, éventuellement à force, à l'intérieur du tube fendu une fois celui-ci inséré entre les bagues 213a, 214a. Cette deuxième partie peut faire office d'élément de guidage pour le tube fendu, lors de son déplacement à l'intérieur de la cavité 219. Elle peut aussi, dans un mode de réalisation avantageux, former un élément de serrage complémentaire du tube fendu contre les bagues 213a, 214a. Après déclenchement de l'initiateur pyrotechnique 223, la situation est illustrée à la figure 7B. La liaison électrique entre les deux plots 213, 214 est interrompue et la circulation du courant électrique au travers de la portion conductrice du dispositif de coupure 211 est ainsi interrompue. On notera que le piston 222 présente ici, sur une partie située directement en amont du tube fendu, un diamètre égal au plus au diamètre externe de ce tube une fois inséré entre les bagues. Dans l'exemple illustré, le diamètre de la partie amont du piston est même légèrement inférieur à celui du tube fendu, de sorte que le piston, entraînant le tube fendu, peut coulisser facilement entre les bagues, sans y rester bloqué. Ceci est rendu possible ici par une légère différence de diamètre entre la partie la plus en amont de la cavité le long de laquelle coulisse le piston (formée ici par l'alésage du support de l'initiateur) et sa partie aval (formée par les éléments de boîtiers), plus large, dans laquelle débouchent les bagues.A groove is advantageously formed in at least one of said grooves and configured to form a calibrated passage for the evacuation of air from the pressurization chamber during the mounting of the piston 222 in the support 212 of the initiator pyrotechnic 223. The piston 222, located at least partly upstream of the split tube, has the function of transmitting to said tube 221 the pressure force generated by the gases in the pressurizing chamber 225 and allowing the cutting of the circuit by moving said tube 221. The first part 241 is extended by a second downstream part 242, of slightly smaller diameter chosen to allow its insertion, possibly by force, inside the split tube once it is inserted between the rings 213a, 214a. This second part can act as a guide element for the split tube, during its movement inside the cavity 219. It can also, in an advantageous embodiment, form a complementary clamping element of the split tube against the rings 213a, 214a. After triggering of the pyrotechnic initiator 223, the situation is illustrated in the figure 7B . The electrical connection between the two studs 213, 214 is interrupted and the flow of electric current through the conductive portion of the switching device 211 is thus interrupted. It will be noted that the piston 222 has here, on a part located directly upstream of the split tube, a diameter equal at most to the external diameter of this tube once inserted between the rings. In the example illustrated, the diameter of the upstream part of the piston is even slightly smaller than that of the split tube, so that the piston, driving the split tube, can slide easily between the rings, without remaining blocked. This is made possible here by a slight difference in diameter between the most upstream part of the cavity along which the piston slides (formed here by the bore of the initiator support) and its downstream part (formed by the housing elements), wider, into which the rings open.

Comme on le voit sur les dessins, la cavité 219 se prolonge vers l'aval par une portion de guidage 245 qui permet de guider le tube fendu 221 lorsque celui-ci passe de la première à la seconde position et d'assurer à celui-ci une trajectoire rectiligne. Un plot amortissant 29 est inséré dans le fond de la cavité 219. Au besoin, ce plot amortissant 29 a pour fonction de réduire l'énergie de l'impact du tube fendu conducteur 221 et du piston isolant 222 lorsque les deux pièces arrivent en contact sur le fond du corps 216.As can be seen in the drawings, the cavity 219 is extended downstream by a guide portion 245 which makes it possible to guide the split tube 221 when it passes from the first to the second position and to ensure that it ci a straight path. A damping pad 29 is inserted into the bottom of the cavity 219. If necessary, this damping pad 29 has for the purpose of reducing the energy of the impact of the split conductive tube 221 and of the insulating piston 222 when the two parts come into contact on the bottom of the body 216.

On a représenté à la figure 9 un premier exemple de système électrique sécurisé 30 selon l'invention. Le système électrique sécurisé 30 comprend un système d'alimentation sécurisé 2 relié à un dispositif électrique 31 destiné à être alimenté par ce système d'alimentation 2. Le système d'alimentation 2 comprend un circuit d'alimentation monophasé comprenant un générateur électrique G et une phase 10 reliée à ce générateur G. Le générateur G peut par exemple être un alternateur. Le générateur G peut être relié à un moteur thermique comme un moteur à explosion ou un turboréacteur. En variante, le générateur G peut faire partie d'une installation telle qu'une centrale électrique produisant un courant alternatif. Dans cet exemple, le dispositif de coupure 1 illustré à la figure 1 est relié à la phase 10 comme détaillé plus haut. Le dispositif de coupure 1 est monté en série avec le générateur G et le dispositif électrique 31. Le dispositif de coupure 1 est présent entre le générateur G et le dispositif électrique 31. Le générateur G est présent en amont du dispositif de coupure 1 et le dispositif électrique 31 est présent en aval du dispositif de coupure 1. Les termes « amont » et « aval » sont ici utilisés en référence au sens du courant électrique dans le circuit d'alimentation (flèche I). Comme expliqué plus haut, lorsque l'intensité du courant traversant la phase 10 dépasse la valeur prédéterminée, le déclenchement du fusible 40 présent dans le dispositif de coupure 1 permet d'actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique 3 et donc la coupure du courant circulant dans le circuit.We represented at the figure 9 a first example of a secure electrical system 30 according to the invention. The secure electrical system 30 comprises a secure supply system 2 connected to an electrical device 31 intended to be supplied by this supply system 2. The supply system 2 comprises a single-phase supply circuit comprising an electric generator G and a phase 10 connected to this generator G. The generator G can for example be an alternator. Generator G can be connected to a heat engine such as an internal combustion engine or a turbojet. As a variant, the generator G may be part of an installation such as a power station producing an alternating current. In this example, the cut-off device 1 illustrated in the figure 1 is linked to phase 10 as detailed above. The cut-off device 1 is mounted in series with the generator G and the electrical device 31. The cut-off device 1 is present between the generator G and the electric device 31. The generator G is present upstream of the cut-off device 1 and the electrical device 31 is present downstream of the breaking device 1. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used here with reference to the direction of the electric current in the supply circuit (arrow I). As explained above, when the intensity of the current passing through phase 10 exceeds the predetermined value, the triggering of the fuse 40 present in the breaking device 1 makes it possible to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator 3 and therefore the cutting of the current flowing in the circuit.

La figure 10 représente un autre exemple de système électrique et de système d'alimentation sécurisés 300 selon l'invention. Dans l'exemple de la figure 10, une structure similaire à celle de la figure 9 a été utilisée dans laquelle un élément de contrôle 37 du dispositif électrique 31 a été ajouté. Cet élément de contrôle 37 est relié au dispositif d'allumage du dispositif de coupure 100. L'élément de contrôle 37 est configuré pour actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique lorsqu'un paramètre de fonctionnement du dispositif électrique atteint une valeur prédéterminée. Cela permet de réaliser la coupure du courant électrique par le dispositif de coupure 100 aussi en cas de dysfonctionnement du dispositif électrique 31 et pas seulement en cas de surintensité dans le circuit. L'élément de contrôle 37 comporte par exemple un capteur de température configuré pour mesurer la température du dispositif électrique 31. En variante ou en combinaison, l'élément de contrôle 37 peut comporter un capteur de pression configuré pour mesurer la pression d'une partie au moins du dispositif électrique 31. Ainsi, l'élément de contrôle 37 peut être configuré pour actionner l'initiateur pyrotechnique lorsque la température du dispositif électrique 31 ou la pression d'une partie dudit dispositif 31 dépasse une valeur prédéterminée et ce afin de garantir la sécurité du système 300 lorsqu'un dysfonctionnement est observé.The figure 10 shows another example of a secure electrical system and power system 300 according to the invention. In the example of the figure 10 , a structure similar to that of the figure 9 was used in which a control element 37 of the electrical device 31 was added. This control element 37 is connected to the ignition device of the cut-off device 100. The control element 37 is configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when an operating parameter of the electrical device reaches a predetermined value. This makes it possible to cut off the electric current by the cut-off device 100 also in the event of a malfunction of the electric device. 31 and not only in the event of an overcurrent in the circuit. The control element 37 comprises for example a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the electrical device 31. As a variant or in combination, the control element 37 may comprise a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of a part at least of the electrical device 31. Thus, the control element 37 can be configured to actuate the pyrotechnic initiator when the temperature of the electrical device 31 or the pressure of a part of said device 31 exceeds a predetermined value and this in order to guarantee the security of the system 300 when a malfunction is observed.

Les systèmes électriques sécurisés 30 et 300 qui viennent d'être décrits peuvent être montés dans un véhicule tel qu'un aéronef ou un train ou être présents dans une installation industrielle.The secure electrical systems 30 and 300 which have just been described may be mounted in a vehicle such as an aircraft or a train or be present in an industrial installation.

Claims (9)

  1. A breaker device (1 ; 100 ; 111) for connecting to an electrical circuit, the device comprising at least one pyrotechnic initiator (3) and a body (11 ; 114) having present therein:
    - a pressurizing chamber (7) in communication with an outlet (S) from said pyrotechnic initiator (3) and constituting a first breaker device chamber;
    - at least one electrically conductive portion (8 ; 180) for connection to the electrical circuit, at least a fraction of the conductive portion (8 ; 180) being present in a second chamber (12) that is present in the body (11 ; 114) ;
    - at least one fusible element (40 ; 130) connected in series with the conductive portion, the initiator being connected to the terminals of said fusible element and said fusible element being configured to trip when the current passing through it exceeds a predetermined value, thereby actuating the initiator; and
    - a movable breaker element (15) separating the first chamber (7) from the second chamber (12) and presenting at least one projecting portion (17) made of electrically insulating material, said at least one projecting portion facing the conductive portion (8 ; 180);
    the pyrotechnic initiator being configured to cause the breaker device to pass from a current-passing first configuration to a circuit-breaking second configuration, the breaker device being characterized in that the movable breaker element is moved towards the conductive portion in order to break it by impact against the projecting portion in a zone that is distinct from the zone where the fusible element is present on passing from the first configuration to the second, the fusible element being present either in the second chamber and being connected with its insulating shell to the conductive portion, or in a third chamber (128) distinct from the second chamber wherein a powder (131) of electrically insulating material also being present in the third chamber.
  2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the fusible element (40 ; 130) is a separate component connected to the conductive portion.
  3. A breaker device (1 ; 111) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, the device having a single conductive portion (8 ; 180).
  4. A breaker device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the breaker device has a plurality of conductive portions (80), a respective fusible element (40) being connected in series with each of the conductive portions, the initiator being connected to the terminals of each fusible element and each fusible element being configured to trip when the current passing through it exceeds the predetermined value so as to actuate the initiator.
  5. A secure electrical system (30 ; 300) comprising at least:
    - a secure power supply system (2 ; 200) comprising at least:
    - a breaker device (1 ; 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ; and
    - a power supply circuit connected to the breaker device, said at least one conductive portion (8) being connected to a phase (10) of the power supply circuit; and
    - an electrical device (31) connected to said power supply system (2 ; 200) in order to be powered thereby.
  6. A system (300) according to claim 5, further comprising a monitor element (37) for monitoring the electrical device and configured to actuate the initiator (3) when the value of an operating parameter of the electrical device reaches a predetermined value.
  7. A system (300) according to claim 6, the operating parameter being pressure or temperature.
  8. A vehicle including at least one secure electrical system (30 ; 300) according to any one of claims 5 to 7.
  9. An installation including at least one system (30 ; 300) according to any one of claims 5 to 7.
EP17731196.6A 2016-05-16 2017-05-15 Breaker device intended to be linked to an electrical circuit Active EP3459100B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1654336A FR3051282B1 (en) 2016-05-16 2016-05-16 CUTTING DEVICE INTENDED TO BE CONNECTED TO AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT
PCT/FR2017/051168 WO2017198937A1 (en) 2016-05-16 2017-05-15 Breaker device intended to be linked to an electrical circuit

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3459100A1 EP3459100A1 (en) 2019-03-27
EP3459100B1 true EP3459100B1 (en) 2020-03-18

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US (1) US10622179B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3459100B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6924776B2 (en)
CN (1) CN109478482B (en)
FR (1) FR3051282B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017198937A1 (en)

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CN109478482B (en) 2020-06-12
EP3459100A1 (en) 2019-03-27
FR3051282B1 (en) 2021-05-21
JP6924776B2 (en) 2021-08-25
US20190287751A1 (en) 2019-09-19
JP2019515476A (en) 2019-06-06
WO2017198937A1 (en) 2017-11-23
FR3051282A1 (en) 2017-11-17
CN109478482A (en) 2019-03-15
US10622179B2 (en) 2020-04-14

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