"TEMPERATURE MONITORING DEVICE FOR A PREFABRICATED ELECTRICAL CONDUIT AND

RELATIVE METHOD”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

The invention also relates to a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

The present invention also relates to a method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

PRIOR ART

Prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type are known. The prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type typically comprise a plurality of busbar modules, which are connected together by junction boxes. Inside each busbar module are housed conductive bars with the purpose of conducting electrical energy. Facing ends of the conductive bars are connected to each other at a junction box.

Prefabricated electrical conduits may be subject to various types of failures, which usually lead to relative malfunctions. Possible failures may be mechanical in nature, while further failures may be electrical in nature. Some electrical failures may be caused by thermal factors, such as overheating of one or more conductive bars. Failures to prefabricated electrical conduits could cause critical damage which may sometimes be irreparable. Damage to prefabricated electrical conduits is particularly undesirable as it leads to repair or replacement costs (in the case of irreparable damage), necessary to restore the functionality of the prefabricated electrical conduit. The control of any faults or malfunctions is currently entrusted to operators present on site, who are responsible for checking the integrity of the prefabricated electrical conduits.

However, leaving operators to check the integrity of prefabricated electrical conduits may not always be effective.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore the object of the present invention to solve at least one of the drawbacks and/or limitations of the above solutions.

A first object of the present invention is to provide a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type which allows monitoring the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type effectively.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type capable of monitoring the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type in a reliable manner. The objects described above with reference to a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type are shared by a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type and a method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

These objects and others, which will become more apparent from the following description, are substantially achieved by a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, by a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, by a system with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type and by a method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type according to one or more of the appended claims and/or to one or more of the following aspects.

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are described hereinafter.

In a 1st aspect, a temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type is provided, comprising:

- a box-like body defining a cavity at its interior and configured for being coupled to a busbar module or to a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type,

- at least one temperature detector configured for detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature, the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature being a temperature defined within and/or at a busbar module or a junction box,

- a control unit, for example housed in the cavity of the box-like body and communicatively connected at least with the temperature detector, wherein the control unit is configured for implementing a temperature monitoring procedure comprising:

- receiving, in input, at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relative to said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature detected by said at least one temperature detector,

- processing said at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data, and

- detecting, by means of processing of said at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data, an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with respect to a pre-established temperature or with respect to a pre-established temperature range or conformity of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre-established temperature or with a pre-established temperature range.

In a 2nd aspect according to the 1st aspect, the temperature monitoring device further comprises at least one constraint element configured for allowing engagement of the box-like body to a busbar module or to a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type. In a 3rd aspect according to the 1st or 2nd aspect, the temperature detector is configured for detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature without contact.

In a 4th aspect according to the 1st or 2nd or 3rd aspect, the device further comprises at least one interface element, such as a tubular protrusion or an abutment surface or a through hole, configured for interfacing the box-like body to a busbar module or to a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 5th aspect according to the 4th aspect, said at least one interface element is configured for pass-through housing the temperature detector.

In a 6th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature monitoring device comprises a battery housed in the cavity of the box-like body and configured for electrically powering at least the control unit and, optionally, also the temperature detector.

In a 7th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is communicatively connected with the temperature detector.

In an 8th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is also configured for:

- comparing the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre-established temperature or a pre-established temperature range,

- detecting a deviation of the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature from the pre- established temperature or from the pre-established temperature range,

- identifying said deviation as an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature,

- signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In a 9th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is also configured for launching an alarm.

In a 10th aspect according to the 9th aspect, the control unit is configured for launching the alarm simultaneously or immediately after or subsequently to signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In an 11th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured for launching the alarm if the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature persists for a predetermined period of time and/or if the temperature of prefabricated electrical conduit detected exceeds a critical temperature threshold.

In a 12th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured for:

- detecting a stay time period of the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature,

- launching an alarm if the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature persists for a predetermined period of time and/or if the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature exceeds a critical temperature threshold.

In a 13th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is further configured for sending, for example in wireless mode, prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation data relative to said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation to processing means for further processing. In a 14th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the control unit is further configured for send, for example in wireless mode, prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation data relative to said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation to a database for archiving.

In a 15th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature detector is at least partially housed in the cavity of the box-like body.

In a 16th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature detector protrudes outside the box-like body for at least a portion thereof, said protruding portion being intended to be displaced, in conditions of use of the temperature monitoring device, at least partially inside the busbar module or junction box.

In a 17th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature detector comprises at least one temperature sensor configured for detecting at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In an 18th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature sensor is or comprises a temperature probe or a thermocouple.

In a 19th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature monitoring device comprises an identifier configured for allowing the unique identification and/or localization of the temperature monitoring device, for example in a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type.

In a 20th aspect according to the 19th aspect, the identifier is associated with the temperature detector.

In a 21st aspect according to the 19th or 20th aspect, the control unit is configured for uniquely identify and/or localizing the temperature monitoring device by means of said identifier, for example in a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type.

In a 22nd aspect according to the 19th or 20th or 21st aspect, the control unit is configured for: o identifying the identifier of the temperature monitoring device where said anomaly takes place, o uniquely establishing, by means of said identifier, the position of the temperature monitoring device where said anomaly takes place.

In a 23rd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the box-like body comprises a panel configured for allowing access to said cavity.

In a 24th aspect according to the 23rd aspect, the box-like body comprises a side wall, the panel being engageable to the side wall, in assembled conditions of the box-like body, in which the panel is engaged with the side wall, the panel defining a lower wall of the box-like body.

In a 25th aspect according to the 24th aspect, the panel is removably engageable to said side wall, for example at an end portion of the side wall.

In a 26th aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the temperature monitoring device comprises at least one coupling element configured for allowing engagement of the box-like body to a busbar module or to a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 27th aspect according to the 26th aspect, said at least one coupling element is defined at the panel.

In a 28th aspect according to the 26th or 27th aspect, said at least one coupling element is integral with the panel and emerges from the lower wall of the panel. In a 29th aspect according to the 26th or 27th or 28th aspect, the panel comprises a plurality of coupling elements, for example a plurality of protrusions.

In a 30th aspect according to any one of the 24th to 29th aspects, the box-like body further comprises an upper wall arranged, in assembled conditions of the box-like body, in opposition to the lower wall, the side wall being interposed between the upper wall and the lower wall.

In a 31st aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the box-like body comprises at least one coupling element configured for allowing assembly of the panel.

In a 32nd aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the box-like body comprises at least a first coupling element engaged with the upper wall and/or with the side wall and a second coupling element emerging from the lower wall.

In a 33rd aspect according to the 32nd aspect, the second coupling element is configured for allowing engagement of the box-like body to a busbar module or to a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 34th aspect according to any one of the 2nd to 33rd aspects, the constraint element is further configured for constraining the panel to the upper wall and/or to the side wall of the box-like body.

In a 35th aspect according to the 34th aspect, the constraint element is engaged with the first coupling element and with the second coupling element.

In a 36th aspect according to the 34th or 35th aspect, the constraint element is configured for constraining the panel to the upper wall and/or to the side wall.

In a 37th aspect according to the 34th or 35th or 36th aspect, the temperature monitoring device comprises a plurality of constraint elements, each constraint element being configured for being engaged to a respective first coupling element and to a respective second coupling element and for constraining the panel to the upper wall and/or to the side wall.

In a 38th aspect according to any one of the 2nd to 37th aspects, said at least one constraint element is of the threaded type.

In a 39th aspect according to any one of the 32nd to 38th aspects, the first coupling element emerges from an inner surface of the upper wall at the cavity of the box-like body and the second coupling element emerges from at least one of the one inner surface of the panel and an outer surface of the panel, optionally from both, in assembled conditions of the box-like body, the inner surface of the panel facing the cavity of the box-like body, the outer surface of the panel facing a busbar module or a junction box and the second coupling element being arranged at said cavity.

In a 40th aspect according to any one of the 32nd to 39th aspects, the box-like body comprises a plurality of first coupling elements and a plurality of second coupling elements arranged in positions corresponding to each other.

In a 41st aspect according to any one of the 1st to 40th aspects, the temperature monitoring device is configured for retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type. In a 42nd aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring device is provided, according to any one of the preceding aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims, for monitoring at least one temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 43rd aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring device is provided, according to any one of the preceding aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims, for measuring at least one temperature variation of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type comprising at least one busbar module and at least one junction box, the measurement of at least one temperature variation taking place at one end of the busbar module arranged in proximity to the adjacent junction box or for measuring temperature variations inside the junction box.

In a 44th aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring device is provided, according to any one of the preceding aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims, for retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 45th aspect according to the 42nd or 43rd or 44th aspect, the use takes place within a busbar temperature monitoring network, for example in a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type.

In a 46th aspect, a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type is provided, comprising a plurality of temperature monitoring devices according to any one of the 1st to 41st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims, the temperature monitoring devices being engaged with a respective busbar module and/or with a respective junction box and being distributed to form a busbar temperature monitoring network.

In a 47th aspect according to the 46th aspect, each monitoring device comprises an identifier configured for allowing the unique identification and/or localization of the temperature monitoring device, for example in a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type.

In a 48th aspect according to the 46th or 47th aspect, the system further comprises a display element configured for allowing the display in substantially real time of said at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data detected by said at least one temperature detector.

In a 49th aspect according to the 48th aspect, the display element is communicatively connected with the control unit of at least one temperature monitoring device or with the respective control unit of each temperature monitoring device.

In a 50th aspect according to the 48th or 49th aspect, the display element is remotely located with respect to the temperature monitoring device, optionally the display element being of the movable type.

In a 51st aspect according to the 48th or 49th or 50th aspect, the monitoring device and the display element are operationally connected to each other.

In a 52nd aspect according to any one of the 48th to 51st aspects, the control unit is configured for sending said at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data to the display element.

In a 53rd aspect according to any one of the 48th to 52nd aspects, the temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit and the display element are operationally connected to each other wirelessly. In a 54th aspect according to any one of the aspects 46th to 53rd, the temperature monitoring system comprises a database, the control unit being communicatively connected to the database and being configured for consulting the database.

In a 55th aspect according to the 54th aspect, the database is configured for storing said at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data.

In a 56th aspect according to the 54th or 55th aspect, the database is configured for storing information relating to a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type, said information comprising a correspondence between the identifier of each temperature monitoring device and the position of each identifier, and therefore of each temperature monitoring device to which it is uniquely associated, in the plant.

In a 57th aspect according to any one of the 46th to 56th aspects, the temperature monitoring devices are configured for communicating with each other and for sharing prefabricated electrical conduit temperature information or data.

In a 58th aspect according to any one of the 46th to 57th aspects, the temperature monitoring system is configured for allowing sharing of prefabricated electrical conduit temperature information or data among temperature monitoring devices in non-wired mode, in particular in Wi-Fi mode.

In a 59th aspect according to any one of the 46th to 58th aspects, the temperature monitoring system comprises a central or master server and a common access point configured for serving said plurality of temperature monitoring devices.

In a 60th aspect according to any one of the 46th to 59th aspects, the system comprises processing means configured for processing a plurality of prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relating to temperatures detected by the temperature detectors of the temperature monitoring devices.

In a 61st aspect according to any one of the 54th to 59th aspects, the database and/or monitoring devices are configured for communicating with said processing means.

In a 62nd aspect according to the 60th or 61st aspect, the processing means are configured for processing in an aggregate and/or statistical manner a plurality of prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relating to temperatures detected by the temperature detectors of the monitoring devices.

In a 63rd aspect according to the 60th or 61st or 62nd aspect, the processing means are configured for calculating a temperature trend in a given time interval.

In a 64th aspect according to any one of the aspects from 60th to 63rd, the processing means are configured for launching an alarm if the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature persists for a predetermined period of time and/or if the temperature of prefabricated electrical conduit detected exceeds a critical temperature threshold.

In a 65th aspect according to any one of the 60th to 64th aspects, the processing means comprises at least one computer and/or a platform and/or a mobile device and/or an application.

In a 66th aspect according to the 65th aspect, the mobile device is a smartphone and/or a tablet.

In a 67th aspect according to the 65th or 66th aspect, the application is a mobile application operating on a mobile device. In a 68th aspect according to any one of the 60th to 67th aspects, the display element is communicatively connected and/or integrated into the processing means.

In a 69th aspect according to any one of the 48th to 68th aspects, the display element comprises a screen, for example a screen of said computer or said mobile device.

In a 70th aspect according to any one of the 46th to 69th aspects, the temperature monitoring system is configured for retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 71st aspect according to any of the 46th to 70th aspects, the temperature monitoring system is a temperature variation monitoring system.

In a 72nd aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring system is provided, according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims, for monitoring a plurality of temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, each temperature of the plurality of temperatures being defined inside and/or at with a respective busbar module or a respective junction box.

In a 73rd aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring system is provided, according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims, for measuring at least one temperature variation of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type comprising at least one busbar module and at least one junction box, the measurement of at least one temperature variation taking place at one end of the busbar module arranged in proximity to the adjacent junction box or for measuring temperature variations inside the junction box.

In a 74th aspect, a use of a temperature monitoring system is provided, according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims, for retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type.

In a 75th aspect according to the 72nd or 73rd or 74th aspect, the use defines a busbar temperature monitoring network, for example in a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type.

In a 76th aspect, a prefabricated electrical conduit system of the busbar type is provided, comprising:

- at least one prefabricated electrical conduit comprising at least one busbar module or at least one junction box,

- at least one temperature monitoring device according to any one of the 1st to 41st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims or a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims, the temperature monitoring device for a prefabricated electrical conduit being engaged to the busbar module or to the junction box, for example by means of a constraint element.

In a 77th aspect according to the 76th aspect, the temperature detector is located inside the busbar module or the junction box.

In a 78th aspect according to the 76th or 77th aspect, the plant further comprises at least one conductive bar housed at least partially inside the busbar module or the junction box, the conductive bar being configured for powering the temperature monitoring device. In a 79th aspect according to the 78th aspect, at least one conductive bar is electrically connected to the temperature monitoring device and is configured for electrically powering at least the control unit and, optionally, the temperature detector.

In an 80th aspect according to the 78th or 79th aspect, at least one electrical connection between at least one conductive bar and at least the control unit is housed in a pass-through manner at an interface element of the temperature monitoring device.

In an 81st aspect, a method is provided for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type comprising the following steps:

- arranging a temperature monitoring device according to any one of the 1st to 41st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims or a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims,

- detecting, by means of said temperature detector, a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature at a detection point defined within and/or at a busbar module or at a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type,

- processing, by means of said control unit, at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relative to said detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature,

- detecting, by means of said control unit, an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with respect to a pre-established temperature or with respect to a pre-established temperature range or conformity of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre- established temperature or with a pre-established temperature range.

In an 82nd aspect according to the 81st aspect, the step of detecting, by means of said temperature detector, a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature at a detection point defined within and/or at a busbar module or a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, is carried out without contact between the temperature detector and the busbar module or a junction box and/or without contact between the temperature detector and at least one conductive bar housed at least partially within the busbar module or junction box.

In an 83rd aspect, a method is provided for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type comprising the following steps:

- detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature at a detection point defined within and/or at a busbar module or at a junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type,

- processing at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relative to said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature,

- detecting an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with respect to a pre- established temperature or with respect to a pre-established temperature range or conformity of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre-established temperature or with a pre- established temperature range. In an 84th aspect according to the 83rd aspect, the step of detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature at a detection point defined within and/or at a busbar module or at a junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type is carried out without contact.

In an 85th aspect according to any one of the 81st to 84th aspects, the step of detecting an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with respect to a predetermined temperature or a predetermined temperature range further comprises the following steps:

- comparing the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre-established temperature or a pre-established temperature range,

- detecting a deviation of the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature from the pre- established temperature or from the pre-established temperature range,

- identifying said deviation as an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature,

- signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In an 86th aspect according to any one of the 81st to 85th aspects, the method comprises the step of launching an alarm simultaneously or immediately after or subsequent to the step of signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In an 87th aspect according to any one of the 81st to 86th aspects, the method comprises a step of verifying a stay time period of the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature, the step of launching an alarm being carried out, following the step of signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature, if the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature persists for a predetermined period of time.

In an 88th aspect according to any one of the 81st to 87th aspects, the method comprises the step of intervening at or in proximity to the detection point if an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature is detected.

In an 89th aspect according to the 88th aspect, the step of intervening at or in proximity to the detection point is subsequent to the step of launching an alarm or subsequent to the step of signaling the anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In a 90th aspect according to the 81st or 82nd aspects or any one of the 85th to 89th aspects, the step of a temperature monitoring device according to any one of the 1st to 41st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims or a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring claims comprises providing a plurality of temperature monitoring devices, the method further comprising the step of uniquely identifying and/or localizing, for example in a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits of the busbar type, the temperature monitoring device at which said anomaly takes place.

In a 91st aspect according to any one of the 81st to 90th aspects:

- each temperature monitoring device comprises an identifier, the temperature monitoring devices being mapped in a manner such that each identifier is associated with a position in the context of said mapping, - the step of uniquely identifying and/or localizing the temperature monitoring device at which said anomaly takes place comprises: o identifying the identifier of the temperature monitoring device where said anomaly takes place, o uniquely establishing, by means of said identifier, the position of the temperature monitoring device where said anomaly takes place.

In a 92nd aspect according to any one of the 81st to 91st aspects, the method comprises the step of engaging the box-like body of at least one temperature monitoring device to the prefabricated electrical conduit, for example to a busbar module or to a prefabricated electrical conduit junction box.

In a 93rd aspect according to any one of the 81st to 92nd aspects, the method of monitoring a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature is a method of monitoring at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation.

In a 94th aspect, a method is provided for retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, comprising the steps of:

- arranging a temperature monitoring device according to any one of the 1st to 41st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring device claims or a temperature monitoring system for a prefabricated electrical conduit according to any one of the 46th to 71st aspects and/or the appended temperature monitoring system claims,

- engaging the box-like body of at least one temperature monitoring device to the prefabricated electrical conduit, for example to a busbar module or to a junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit.

In a 95th aspect according to the 92nd or 93rd or 94th aspects, engaging the box-like body of at least one temperature monitoring device to the prefabricated electrical conduit comprises installing at least one temperature detector configured for detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature.

In a 96th aspect according to the 95th aspect, installing a temperature detector configured for detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature comprises at least partially housing the temperature detector within a busbar module or a junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit.

In a 97th aspect according to any one of the 92nd to 96th aspects, engaging the box-like body of at least one temperature monitoring device to the prefabricated electrical conduit, for example to a busbar module or to a junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit, comprises engaging each box-like body of a plurality of temperature monitoring devices to a respective busbar module or to a respective junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit.

In a 98th aspect according to the 97th aspect, engaging each box-like body of a plurality of temperature monitoring devices to a respective busbar module or to a respective junction box of the prefabricated electrical conduit comprises implementing a busbar temperature monitoring network.

In a 99th aspect according to any one of the 81st to 98th aspects, the method comprises a step of electrically powering at least the control unit and, optionally, the temperature detector, by means of a battery located inside of the box-like body and/or by means of at least one conductive bar of the prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type. In a 100th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 99th aspects, the temperature monitoring device is a temperature variation monitoring device.

In a 101st aspect according to any one of the 1st to 100th aspects, the temperature monitoring device is configured for measuring at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature variation.

In a 102nd aspect according to any one of the 9th to 101st aspects, the alarm is launched by sending a notification, for example by sending a notification by an application operating and/or viewable on a device mobile.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention are described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided only for illustrative and, therefore, non-limiting purposes, in which:

- Figure 1 is a view of a temperature monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention in an exploded configuration,

- Figure 2 is a side view of the temperature monitoring device, in assembled conditions and according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- Figure 3 is a bottom view of the temperature monitoring device of Figure 2,

- Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a temperature monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- Figure 5 is a view of a portion of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits according to an embodiment of the present invention, where a temperature monitoring device according to an embodiment of the invention in operating conditions is illustrated,

- Figure 6 is a view of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- Figure 7 is a graphical representation of a real-time display mode of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit measured by a plurality of temperature detectors of respective temperature monitoring devices of a temperature monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a mapping of a plant with prefabricated electrical conduits according to an embodiment of the present invention; the right rectangle shows, in real time, data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit measured by a plurality of temperature detectors of respective temperature monitoring devices of a temperature monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

- Figure 9 is a graphical representation of a display mode of a historical trend of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit detected by a single temperature detector; in the right rectangle, the single temperature detector object of the graphic representation is selected (having identifier "xx002"). DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

It should be noted that in the present detailed description, corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated by the same reference numerals. The figures may illustrate the object of the invention by representations that are not in scale; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures relating to the object of the invention may relate solely to schematic representations. In the context of the present description, the use of terms such as "above", "top", "upper", "bottom", "lower", "side”, "lateral", "sideways", "horizontal", "horizontally", "vertical", "vertically", "front", "frontally", "rear", "posteriorly" and the like refers, unless otherwise specifically indicated, to at least one spatial orientation that normally the object of the invention, in particular the temperature monitoring device, may assume in operative conditions or in use conditions. In this regard, see the accompanying figures illustrating at least one possible spatial orientation of the object of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, the use of terms "condition" or "configuration" may be used interchangeably in the context of the present description.

Some definitions that may be used for understanding the present invention are given below: the expression "prefabricated electrical conduit temperature” means a temperature defined at a detection point defined within and/or at a busbar module or at a junction box of a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type. The busbar temperature may for example be defined at or in proximity to one or more conductive bars arranged at least partially within a busbar module or a junction box. The busbar temperature may be an overall temperature of the busbar module or of the junction box, i.e. a temperature representative of the thermal conditions existing within the busbar module or junction box, the expression "conditions of use" of the temperature monitoring device means, unless otherwise indicated, conditions in which the temperature monitoring device is engaged in a prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, for example at a busbar module or a junction box, for monitoring at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature (see Figure 5). The terms "conditions of use" and "operating conditions" may be used interchangeably in the context of the present discussion, unless otherwise indicated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Temperature monitoring device

Reference numeral 1 indicates a temperature monitoring device as a whole. The temperature monitoring device 1 is designed and configured for monitoring temperature variations of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type. In greater detail, the temperature monitoring device 1 may be used for monitoring temperature variations of a busbar module 51 or of a junction box 52. The temperature monitoring device 1 may also be defined and identified by means of the expression "temperature variation monitoring device". The temperature monitoring device 1 comprises a box-like body 2 defining a cavity at its interior. A control unit 3 is housed at the cavity, which will be described in detail below. As illustrated in Figure 1, the box-like body 2 comprises an upper wall 4, a lower wall 5 and a side wall 6 interposed between the upper wall 4 and the lower wall 5. The upper wall 4 and the side wall 6 may be monolithic. The upper wall 4 and the lower wall 5 may be predominantly or substantially flat and parallel to each other. The lower wall 5 is intended to face, in conditions of use of the box-like body 2 and at the outer surface thereof, a wall (for example an upper wall) of a busbar module 51 or of a junction box 52. The lower wall may be defined by a panel 2' of the box-like body 2 engageable with the side wall 6 at an end portion of the side wall 6; in this regard, see Figure 1. The panel 2' may be removably engageable to the side wall 6. As regards the material, the box-like body 2 may be of plastic material. Providing the box-like body 2 in plastic material advantageously allows containing the weight thereof.

The box-like body 2 is of the compact type. Furthermore, as will be seen in greater detail below, the box-like body 2 has small dimensions. In this way, the installation of the temperature monitoring device 1 is easy and suitable for a variety of prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type. With regard to the dimensions, the box-like body 2 may have a length L comprised between 90 mm and 150 mm, for example substantially equal to 120 mm; the length L of the box-like body 2 may be defined as the extension of the box-shaped body 2 along a prevailing extension direction thereof. As illustrated in Figure 1, the length L of the box-like body 2 may coincide with the length of the upper wall 4 and, in addition or alternatively, of the lower wall 5 of the box like body 2. Furthermore, the box-like body 2 may have a width W comprised between 25 mm and 105 mm, for example substantially equal to 55 mm or 75 mm; the width W of the box-like body 2 may be defined as the extension of the box-like body 2 along a transverse direction, for example orthogonal, to a prevailing extension direction thereof. The width W of the box-like body 2 may be orthogonal to the length L of the box-like body 2. As shown in Figure 1, the width W of the box-like body 2 may coincide with the width of the upper wall 4. In addition or alternatively, the width W of the box-like body 2 may coincide with the width of the lower wall 5 of the box-like body 2. The box-like body 2 may have a height FI between 15 mm and 55 mm, for example substantially equal to 35 mm. The height FI of the box-like body 2 may be defined as the extension of the box like body 2 along a transverse direction, for example orthogonal, to the prevailing extension direction thereof and to the direction along which the width W of the box-like body 2 is defined. The height FI of the box-like body 2 may be orthogonal to the length L and the width W of the box-like body 2. The height FI of the box-like body 2 may coincide with the height of the side wall 6 (see Figure 2) or with the distance between the upper wall 4 and the lower wall 5 of the box-like body 2.

Optionally, the temperature monitoring device 1 further comprises at least one interface element 7, 7' configured for interfacing the box-like body 2 to a busbar module 51 or to a junction box 52 of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type. By way of example, the interface element 7, 7' may be in the form of a protrusion. The embodiment of the accompanying figures shows a temperature monitoring device 1 provided with a plurality of engagement elements in the form of tubular protrusions 7, 7' emerging from the lower wall 5 of the box-like body 2, which is defined by the panel 2' (see in particular Figures 2 and 3). In an alternative embodiment, at least one interface element 7, 7' or all the interface elements 7, 7' may be in the form of through holes defined at the lower wall 5. As will be seen in greater detail below, the interface elements indicated in the accompanying figures with the reference numeral 7 may be intended, in conditions of use of the temperature monitoring device 1, for housing in a pass-through manner electrical connections with conductive bars of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50, while the interface element indicated in the accompanying figures with the reference numeral 7' is intended for housing in a pass-through manner a temperature detector 10. As detailed hereinafter, in one embodiment the monitoring device 1 may provide only one interface element 7' substantially acting as a seat configured for housing in a pass-through manner a temperature detector 10.

The temperature monitoring device 1 may further comprise coupling elements 8, 9 configured for engaging the panel 2' to at least one of the upper wall 4 and the side wall 5 of the box-like body 2. The temperature monitoring device 1 may for example comprise at least a first coupling element 8 emerging from an inner surface of the upper wall 4 at the cavity of the box-like body 2 and a second coupling element 9 emerging both from an inner surface of the lower wall 5 at the cavity of the box-like body 2 and from an outer surface of the lower wall 5 in such a way as to face, in conditions of use of the temperature monitoring device 1, a flange 53 of the busbar module 51 or of the box junction 52. The first coupling element 8 may have a longitudinal extension greater than a longitudinal extension of the second coupling element 9. The first coupling element 8 and the second coupling element 9 are arranged in positions corresponding to each other in such a way as to allow easy coupling thereof. For example, the first coupling element 8 and the second coupling element 9 may be aligned and, in addition or alternatively, coaxial with each other. The temperature monitoring device 1 may comprise first coupling elements 8 and second coupling elements 9 in equal numbers. By way of example, it is reported that in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the temperature monitoring device 1 comprises four first coupling elements 8 and four respective second coupling elements 9. In this embodiment, the first coupling elements are in the form of tubular protrusions 8 (four tubular protrusions 8) and the second coupling elements are also in the form of tubular protrusions 9 (four tubular protrusions 9).

A gasket may be provided at an end cylindrical portion of the second coupling element 9 intended, in conditions of use of the temperature monitoring device 1, to face a busbar module 51 or a junction box 52, for example of the annular type, such as an O-ring. The temperature monitoring device 1 may comprise a plurality of gaskets, each of which is engaged to the end cylindrical portion of a respective second coupling element 9.

The temperature monitoring device 1 may also comprise at least one constraint element 9' configured for constraining the box-like body 2 to the busbar module 51 or to the junction box 52, for example by means of a flange 53 of the busbar module 51 or of the junction box 52. As shown schematically in Figure 5, the constraint element 9' may be configured for constraining the box-like body 2 to the flange 53 of the junction box 52. The constraint element 9' may also be configured for constraining the panel 2' to the upper wall 4 and to the side wall 6. In order to constrain the panel 2', the constraint element 9' may be engaged at least to the first coupling element 8 and to the second coupling element 9. The temperature monitoring device 1 may comprise constraint elements 9' in a number equal to the number of the first coupling elements 8 and of the second coupling elements 9. In this way, each constraint element 9' is configured for constraining together a respective first coupling element 8 and a respective second coupling element 9. For example, the temperature monitoring device 1 may comprise four constraint elements 9', four first coupling elements 8 and four respective second coupling elements 9. Each constraint element 9' may be of the threaded type; purely by way of example, it is indicated that each constraint element 9' may be in the form of a screw. Basically, in the embodiment of the temperature monitoring device 1 illustrated in the accompanying figures, each constraint element 9' is configured for constraining the box-like body 2 to the busbar module 51 or to the junction box 52 and at the same time for constraining the panel 2' to the upper wall 4 and to the side wall 6.

The temperature monitoring device 1 may further comprise a temperature detector 10, such as a temperature probe or a thermocouple. The temperature detector 10 is configured for detecting a prefabricated electrical conduit temperature. In particular, the temperature detector 10 is configured for detecting a temperature defined within the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52 to which the temperature monitoring device 1 is engaged in conditions of use. The temperature detector 10 is preferably configured for detecting the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit without contact. Temperature detection without contact means a temperature detection which is carried out by the temperature detector 10 without the temperature detector 10 being in contact with the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52, and in particular without the detector temperature 10 being in contact with one or more conductive bars housed at least partially in the busbar module 51 or in the junction box 21. In use conditions, to allow easy temperature detection, the temperature detector 10 may be preferably housed at least partially within the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52 (see for example Figure 5); this arrangement allows an effective detection of the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit. For example, the temperature detector 10 may be partially housed in the cavity of the box-like body 2 and may partially protrude within the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52. The temperature detector 10 may extend at least partially inside the box-like body 2 and at least partially outside it; in this regard, see Figure 2 where a temperature detector 10 protruding from the box-like body and housed in a pass-through manner at a tubular protrusion 7' is illustrated. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the monitoring device 1 provides a single tubular protrusion 7' at which the temperature detector 10 is housed in a pass-through manner. The temperature detector 10 may extend mainly in the cavity of the box-like body 2 or mainly outside the cavity 2, for example mainly within the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52. In possible variants, the temperature detector 10 may extend completely within the cavity of the box-like body 2 or completely inside the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52.

An identifier ID may be associated with each temperature monitoring device 1. In particular, the identifier ID may be associated with the temperature detector 10 of the temperature monitoring device 1. The identifier ID is unique and is therefore configured for allowing the unique identification of the temperature monitoring device 1. In the context of a use of one or more temperature monitoring devices 1 in a mapping of a plant 100 with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type, the identifier ID is particularly advantageous as it allows identifying and, consequently, uniquely localizing the temperature monitoring device 1 to which it is associated in the mapping of plant 100. The identifier ID allows quickly identifying the portion of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 (the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52) which has undergone a temperature variation that may be categorized as an anomaly. In this way, the temperature monitoring device 1 provided with identifier ID therefore allows speeding up the intervention to the prefabricated electrical conduit 50, preventing it from being damaged as a result of the detected temperature anomaly. The modes of detecting the busbar temperature and identifying a relative temperature anomaly are detailed below.

The temperature monitoring device 1 may further comprise a battery, which is arranged within the box-like body 2 and is configured for electrically powering some components of the temperature monitoring device 1 , such as the control unit 3 and the temperature detector 10. In this embodiment, the temperature monitoring device 1 may comprise only one interface element 7' housing in a pass-through manner the temperature detector 10. In an alternative embodiment, said components of the temperature monitoring device 1 may be powered by one or more conductive bars; in this embodiment, electrical connections between said components and one or more conductive bars may cross one or more interface elements 7. A further embodiment may also be contemplated, in which a combination of the aforementioned electrical power supply modes of said components is provided. Basically, in this embodiment a plurality of interface elements 7, 7' may be provided and said components may be electrically powered, simultaneously or selectively, by electrical connections, crossing the interface elements 7, with one or more conductive bars and by a battery within the box-like body 2.

The temperature monitoring device 1 may further comprise a control unit 3. The control unit 3 is responsible for controlling the operating conditions implemented by the temperature monitoring device 1. In the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures, the control unit 3 is at least partially housed in the cavity of the box-like body 2. The control unit 3 may be a single unit or be formed by a plurality of different control units according to the design choices and the operational needs. In the embodiments which provide a single control unit 3, it is preferably housed within the cavity of the box-like body 2 (see Figures 1, 2 and 4). In embodiments which provide for a plurality of distinct control units 3, at least one control unit or at least one partition thereof may be housed within the cavity of the box-like body 2.

The expression "control unit” means an electronic component which may include at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), an analog circuit, or a combination of one or more digital processors with one or more analog circuits. The control unit 3 may be "configured" or "programmed" to perform some steps (or operations): this may be done in practice by any means that allows configuring or programming the control unit 3. For example, in the case of a control unit 3 comprising one or more CPUs and one or more memories, one or more programs may be stored in appropriate memory banks connected to the CPU or to the CPUs; the program or programs contain instructions which, when executed by the CPU or the CPUs, program or configure the control unit 3 to perform the operations described in relation to the control unit 3. Alternatively, if the control unit 3 is or includes analog circuitry, then the circuit of the control unit 3 may be designed to include circuitry configured, in use, for processing electrical signals so as to perform the steps related to the control unit 3.

The control unit 3 may be communicatively connected with further elements or components of the temperature monitoring device 1 or with further elements or components external to the temperature monitoring device 1, such as further elements or components of a temperature monitoring system 75 which will be described below. When the control unit 3 is described as "communicatively connected" with at least one element or component of the temperature monitoring device 1 or of the temperature monitoring system 75, it is meant that the control unit 3 is connected to it so as to exchange (receive and/or send) with it at least one information or at least one instruction in any form, for example in the form of data such as data packets. In particular, the communicative connection of the control unit 3 allows the control unit 3 to control, supervise and manage the elements and components to which it is communicatively connected. The communicative connection may be of the wired or non-wired type.

The control unit 3 is configured for implementing a temperature monitoring procedure which includes one or more of the following operations. For this purpose, the control unit 3 is communicatively connected at least with the temperature detector 10. The temperature monitoring procedure provides that the control unit 3 receives as input at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relative to the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature detected by the temperature detector 1. The prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data is then processed by the control unit 3, which is configured for detecting, by means of the aforementioned processing, an anomaly of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature. The prefabricated electrical conduit temperature anomaly may be detected by comparing the detected temperature with a predetermined temperature or a predetermined temperature range. As a result of the comparison, the control unit may detect a deviation of the detected temperature from the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range or the conformity of the detected temperature to the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range. If the control unit 3 detects that there is a deviation of the detected temperature from the predetermined temperature or from the predetermined temperature range, the control unit 3 may identify the deviation as an anomaly in the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit. The deviation of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature detected from the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range may identify a temperature increase over the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range or a decrease in temperature from the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range. The temperature increase may correspond to an overheating of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type (overheating relative to the predetermined temperature or to the predetermined temperature range) and may be due to a malfunction of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type, while the decrease in temperature may correspond to a cooling of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type (cooling relative to the predetermined temperature or to the predetermined temperature range) and may also be due to a malfunction of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type, such as a malfunction or failure in the power supply of one or more conductive bars of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50. The temperature monitoring procedure implemented by the control unit 3 may therefore provide for signaling the anomaly of the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit. The anomaly may be signaled by the control unit 3 if the detected temperature exceeds a first temperature threshold T 1. The control unit 3 may also be configured for launching an alarm 11. The methods for signaling the anomaly and for launching the alarm 11 are described in detail hereinafter with reference to the method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type. The alarm 11 may be launched by the control unit 3 simultaneously or immediately after or subsequently to the signaling of the temperature anomaly of the prefabricated electrical conduit. In the embodiment in which the control unit 3 is configured for launching an alarm 11 after the anomaly is signaled, the alarm 11 may be launched if the anomaly persists for a predetermined period of time. Preferably, the alarm is launched after the anomaly is signaled if the detected temperature exceeds a critical temperature threshold or second temperature threshold T2. The first and second temperature thresholds T1 , T2 are described in greater detail below with reference to the method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 according to the invention. The operation of launching an alarm 11 is aimed at allowing intervention, for example automatically or by an operator, on the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type in order to avoid failures. The predetermined period of time may be established on the basis of the features of the prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type or of the plant 100, such as dimensions, voltage, power, a room temperature of the room in which it is installed, etc. The predetermined period of time may be of the order of magnitude of seconds or minutes.

The control unit 3 is also configured for uniquely identifying and localizing the temperature monitoring device 1 by means of the identifier ID. The unique localization of the temperature monitoring device 1 may be carried out by the control unit 3 by consulting information or mapping data relating to the location of each single identifier ID associated with a respective temperature monitoring device 1, and therefore of each single temperature monitoring device 1, in a plant 100 with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type.

Using the temperature monitoring device

The present invention also relates to at least one use of the temperature monitoring device 1 described above. The use of the temperature monitoring device 1 may be aimed at monitoring the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type within a busbar module 51 or a junction box 52. The temperature monitoring device 1 is preferably used for measuring variations in temperature inside one end of a busbar module 51 arranged in proximity to an adjacent junction box 52 or for measuring temperature variations within a junction box 52.

Figure 5 shows conditions of use of the monitoring device 1 in which the monitoring device 1 is engaged to a junction box 52 so as to monitor the temperature inside the junction box 52; for this purpose, the temperature detector 10 is partially located within the junction box 52. As previously indicated, the temperature detector 10 may be located at least partially or completely within the junction box 52.

A further use of the temperature monitoring device 1 described above is aimed at retrofitting a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type. The temperature monitoring device 1 may be used for retrofitting a pre existing prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type. The retrofit may be aimed at replacing, improving and making more efficient, a (possibly present) pre-existing monitoring method previously used on the pre existing prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type, such as the monitoring method entrusted to an operator described above with reference to the prior art. Alternatively, the retrofit may be aimed at implementing temperature monitoring on a pre-existing prefabricated electrical conduit of the busbar type previously lacking any possibility of temperature monitoring.

Temperature monitoring system The present invention also relates to a temperature monitoring system 75. The temperature monitoring system 75 comprises a plurality of temperature monitoring devices 1 of the type described above. The temperature monitoring system 1 is therefore configured, due to the provision of temperature monitoring devices 1, for monitoring temperature variations of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 or of a prefabricated electrical conduit system 50 of the busbar type. The temperature monitoring system 75 may also be defined and identified by means of the expression "temperature variation monitoring system".

The temperature monitoring system 75 provides that each monitoring device 1 is engaged to a respective busbar module 51 or to a respective junction box 52 and that the temperature monitoring devices 1 are distributed to form a busbar temperature monitoring network. Figure 6 illustrates a temperature monitoring system 75 whose temperature monitoring devices 1 are engaged to respective junction boxes 52.

Each monitoring device 1 is associated with a respective identifier ID aimed at allowing the control unit 3 to uniquely localize the temperature monitoring device 1 according to what described above.

The temperature monitoring devices 1 of the temperature monitoring system 75 are configured for communicating with each other in order to share prefabricated electrical conduit temperature information or data. The sharing of prefabricated electrical conduit temperature information or data may substantially take place in non-wired mode, and in particular in Wi-Fi mode. The temperature monitoring system 75 may comprise a common access point 76 configured for serving the temperature monitoring devices 1. The communication between temperature monitoring devices 1 may be made possible and managed by the respective control units 3 of the temperature monitoring devices 1. The communication between temperature monitoring devices 1 is illustrated in Figure 6 by a dashed line; Figure 6 also illustrates the access point 76. The access point 76 is configured for sending to a database 77, which will be described in detail below, the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature information or data received from the control units 3 of the temperature monitoring devices 1. This sending may be managed and carried out through a central server (or main server). The temperature monitoring system 75 may include the central server; in an alternative embodiment, the central server may be external to the temperature monitoring system 75.

By means of the access point 76, the control unit 3 of each temperature monitoring device 1 is communicatively connected to the database 77 and may be configured for consulting the database 77. Figure 4 schematically shows a temperature monitoring device 1 whose control unit 3 is communicatively connected, by means of Wi Fi technology and by means of the access point 76, with the database 77. The access point 76 may also be configured for communicatively connecting the control unit 3 of each temperature monitoring device 1 with a display element 78 or with processing means 79, which are described below.

The temperature monitoring system 75 may further comprise a database 77. In an alternative embodiment, the database 77 may be external to the temperature monitoring system 75 and the temperature monitoring system 75 may be configured for communicating with it, for example in order to consult it. The database 77 is configured for storing prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data, for example temperature data relating to temperatures currently detected by the temperature detector 10. The database 77 is also configured for archiving such data in such a way as to allow the consultation thereof at a later time, at a temporal distance from the time at which they are detected. Basically, the database 77 may provide a historical trend of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 detected at least by one temperature detector 10 of a temperature monitoring device 1, and in particular by a plurality of temperature detectors 10 of respective temperature monitoring devices 1. In this regard, Figure 9 illustrates a historical trend of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50, which may be for example that of Figure 6, detected by a single temperature detector 10; in the right rectangle, the single temperature detector 10 with identifier (ID) "xxOOZ is selected, to which the historical trend is relative. In the graph representing the historical trend, the abscissas shows the temporal trend, marked by the 24 hours of the day, while the ordinates are relative to the temperature, which in the example shown ranges from 10 °C to 140 °C; the graph also shows, at the top right, the identifier (ID) "xxOOZ of the monitoring device 1 to which the historical trend illustrated in the graph is relative. The "ID" column shows the identifiers (ID) "xxOOf, "xxOOZ, "xxOOZ, "xx004", "xx005" and "xx006" of the temperature monitoring devices 1, the "T" column shows the temperatures and the "P” column shows the peak temperatures. The database 77 is also configured for storing information relating to a mapping M of a plant 100 with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type. The information stored by the database relating to the mapping M includes a correspondence between the identifier ID of each temperature monitoring device 1 and the position of each identifier ID, and therefore of each temperature monitoring device 1 to which it is uniquely associated, in the electrical plant 100. In this regard, Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a mapping M of a plant 100 with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type; the rectangle on the right shows, in real time, data relating to temperatures of the prefabricated electrical conduit (see column "T") of the plant 100 measured by a plurality of temperature detectors 10 of respective temperature monitoring devices 1 of the temperature monitoring system 75.

The temperature monitoring system 75 further includes a display element 78. The display element 78 is configured for allowing the display in substantially real time of at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data detected by at least one temperature detector 10. The display element 78 may also be configured for allowing the display of a historical trend of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 or of a plant 100 measured by temperature detectors 10 of respective temperature monitoring devices 1. The display element may be in the form of a screen 78.

The temperature monitoring system 75 may further comprise processing means 79 configured for processing a plurality of prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relating to temperatures detected by the temperature detectors 10 of the temperature monitoring devices 1. The processing means are configured for processing such data to make it available for viewing in real time. In this regard, see Figure 7, illustrating a graphical representation of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 measured by a plurality of temperature detectors 10 of respective temperature monitoring devices 1 of a temperature monitoring system 75. Furthermore, the processing means 79 are configured for processing the aforementioned prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data to provide the graphical display previously described with reference to Figure 9 (historical trend of data relating to temperatures of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50). The processing means 79 are configured for allowing viewing, for example to a user or a person in charge, the aforementioned and, in addition or alternatively, further graphic representations or displays on the display element 78. The processing means 79 may be in the form of a computer, for example a centralized computer, or a platform or a mobile device, such as a smartphone or a tablet, or an application, for example a mobile application. In some embodiments, the processing means 78 may integrate the aforementioned display element 78 (see Figures 7, 8 and 9). For example, in embodiments where the processing means is a computer or a mobile device 79, the display element may be a screen 78 of the computer or of the mobile device 79.

Electrical plant

The present invention also relates to an electrical plant 100. The electrical plant 100 is of the type with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 and therefore comprises at least one prefabricated electrical conduit 50. The prefabricated electrical conduit 50 in turn comprises at least one busbar module 51 and, optionally, at least one junction box 52, inside which a conductive bar or a plurality of conductive bars is at least partially housed. In the preferred embodiment of the plant 100 illustrated in Figure 5, the plant 100 comprises a plurality of busbar modules 51 and a plurality of junction boxes 52.

The plant 100 further comprises at least a temperature monitoring device 1 of the type described above or a temperature monitoring system 75 of the type described above. Each temperature monitoring device 1 may be engaged to the respective busbar module 51, for example at one end of the busbar module 51 arranged in proximity to an adjacent junction box 52, or to the respective junction box 52 in order to monitor the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit and measure variations in temperature. Figure 6 illustrates an embodiment of the plant in which each temperature monitoring device 1 is engaged to a respective junction box 52; however, in alternative embodiments it may be provided that at least one temperature monitoring device 1 is engaged to a busbar module 51. Each temperature monitoring device 1 may be engaged to the respective busbar module 51 or to the respective junction box 52 by means of at least one constraint element 9' of the type described above. In order to facilitate the engagement between the temperature monitoring device 1 and the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52, the busbar module 51 or the junction box 52 may comprise a flange 53. As illustrated by way of example in Figure 5, the temperature monitoring device 1 may be coupled to the flange 53 by means of one or more constraint elements 9'. The flange 53 may have at least one through hole configured to be crossed by a respective constraint element 9'.

In a possible embodiment, the plant 100 may provide for connecting one or more conductive bars to the temperature monitoring device 1 in such a way as to electrically power some of the components thereof, such as the control unit 3 and the temperature detector 10. Providing that one or more conductive bars are electrically connected to the temperature monitoring device 1 advantageously allows not having to provide an additional source of electrical power. Electrical connections between conductive bars and temperature monitoring device 1 may pass through one or more interface elements 7 so as to enter the box-like body 2 of the temperature monitoring device 1 in order to electrically power at least the aforementioned components. In particular, an interface element 7 may be provided for each electrical connection between a respective conductive bar and said components to be electrically powered. In an alternative embodiment, both of the aforementioned types of power supply may be provided.

Method for monitoring a temperature

The present invention also relates to a method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type.

The method may use at least one temperature monitoring device 1 of the type described above or a temperature monitoring system 75 of the type described above. The method may be aimed at monitoring a temperature of at least one prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type in a plant 100 of the type described above. The method may also be implemented and supervised by the control unit 3 of a temperature monitoring device 1 or by a plurality of control units 3 of respective temperature monitoring devices 1. The method may also be implemented by the temperature monitoring system 75 described above. For example, the method may be implemented on the plurality of temperature monitoring devices 1 by the processing means of the temperature monitoring system 75 of the type described above, with the aid of the control units 3 of the temperature monitoring devices 1.

The method provides for detecting, for example by means of the temperature detector 10, a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit at a detection point P (see Figure 5). The temperature detection is preferably of the type without contact and may be carried out by means of the temperature detector 10 according to what has been described above. A detection point P basically corresponds to the location of a temperature monitoring device 1. The detection point P may be defined inside and/or at a busbar module 51 or a junction box 52 of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type. The detection point P may consist of one end of the busbar module 51 or of a junction box 52. Detecting the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit at at least one of these detection points P is particularly advantageous since the end of the busbar module 51 and the junction box 52 constitute focal points in which, in the event of a fault and/or malfunction of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 or electrical plant 100 of the busbar type, significant temperature variations (anomalies) occur.

The method therefore provides for processing, for example by means of the control unit 3, at least one prefabricated electrical conduit temperature data relative to the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature. Thereafter, the method proposes to detect, for example by means of the control unit 3, an anomaly of said prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with respect to a pre-established temperature or with respect to a pre-established temperature range or conformity of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with a pre-established temperature or with a pre-established temperature range. The detection of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature anomaly may provide for comparing the detected prefabricated electrical conduit temperature with the predetermined temperature or the predetermined temperature range. At this point, on the basis of the comparison, a possible deviation of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature detected from the predetermined temperature or from the predetermined temperature range is detected. The deviation is essentially a difference (delta) in temperature between the detected temperature and the predetermined temperature. At this point, if a deviation has been detected, the deviation is identified as an anomaly in the temperature of the prefabricated electrical conduit; the identification of the deviation as an anomaly may be carried out, for example, if the deviation is equal to or greater than a certain temperature threshold T1, T2. If the anomaly is detected, the method provides for reporting the anomaly. The reporting of the anomaly may be carried out graphically, for example by means of the display element 78 described above. The signaling of the anomaly may be carried out, for example, by means of suitable signaling areas SA in the context of a graphic representation (or display) which may be displayed on the display element 78. For example, with reference to the histogram which constitutes the graphical representation of Figure 7 (in which the temperature of each temperature monitoring device 1 is indicated by a respective temperature bar), the signaling areas SA are represented by portions of the temperature bars which exceed a first temperature threshold T1; these portions of the temperature bars may be indicated in the histogram with a different color from the underlying portion of the temperature bar. For example, for the sake of completeness, it is reported that the portions of the temperature bars that exceed the first temperature threshold T 1 may be indicated in orange, in such a way as to indicate intuitively and visually the non-compliance with the first temperature threshold T1 , and the underlying portions of the bars defined below the first temperature threshold T1 may be indicated with the green color, in such a way as to indicate intuitively and visually their compliance with the first temperature threshold T1. The first temperature threshold T 1 may be between 70 °C and 80 °C; for example, it may be between 70 °C and 75 °C. In the event that the temperature anomaly is significant, the method may also provide for the launch of an alarm 11. For example, a significant anomaly is an anomaly (and therefore the relative deviation detected) which persists at least for a certain pre-established period of time. The deviation referred to in the relevant anomaly may be, for example, a continuous and/or discontinuous temperature variation for a certain predetermined period of time. Also the signaling of the relevant anomaly may be carried out, for example, by means of suitable alarm areas AA in the context of a graphic representation (or display) which may be displayed on the display element. For example, with reference to the histogram of Figure 7, the alarm areas AA are represented by portions of the temperature bars that exceed a certain temperature threshold T2; these portions of the temperature bars may be indicated in the histogram with a different color from the underlying portion of the temperature bar. For example, for the sake of completeness, it is reported that the portions of the temperature bars that exceed a second temperature threshold T2 (higher than the first temperature threshold T1) may be indicated in red, in such a way as to intuitively and visually indicate the non-compliance with the second temperature threshold T2, the underlying portions of the bars defined between the first temperature threshold T 1 and the second temperature threshold T2 may be indicated with the orange color, in such away as to indicate intuitively and visually the non-compliance with the first temperature threshold, and the portions of the bars below the first temperature threshold may be indicated with the green color, in such a way as to indicate intuitively and visually their compliance with the first temperature threshold T1. The second T2 temperature threshold may be equal to or greater than 75 °C; for example, it may be substantially equal to 76 °C. The second temperature threshold T2 is essentially a critical temperature threshold. The method also includes the step of launching the alarm 11. The alarm 11 may be launched, for example, by the control unit 3 simultaneously or immediately after or subsequently to the signaling of the temperature anomaly of the prefabricated electrical conduit. In one embodiment, in order to assess the significance of the anomaly, the method may provide for verifying a stay time for which the anomaly remains and for launching the alarm 11 if the anomaly of the prefabricated electrical conduit temperature persists for a predetermined period of time. Preferably, the alarm 11 is launched when the detected temperature exceeds the second temperature threshold T2, that is, if the detected temperature exceeds the critical temperature threshold T2. The alarm 11 may be launched visually, for example on the display element 78 (see Figures 7, 8 and 9) of the temperature monitoring system 75. Additionally or alternatively, the alarm 11 may be launched with a sound, for example by means of an acoustic signal such as a siren. The alarm 11 may be launched by the control unit 3 of the temperature monitoring device 1 which has detected the anomaly or by the processing means 79 of the temperature monitoring system 75. After the alarm 11 has been launched, the method may provide for intervening at or in proximity to the detection point P. Promptly intervening at the detection point P at which the anomaly has been detected advantageously prevents damage to an electrical plant 100 with prefabricated electrical conduits 50 of the busbar type.

During the execution of the described method steps, at least the control unit 3 and, optionally, the temperature detector 10 may be electrically powered by a battery of the temperature monitoring device 1 or by one or more conductive bars of the prefabricated electrical conduit 1.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

The present invention allows monitoring the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100.

In this way, the invention allows keeping under control the temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100.

The invention allows intervening in good time on a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type which has undergone an anomalous temperature variation and on the relative electrical plant 100.

The present invention therefore allows preventing failures and malfunctions to a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and to the relative electrical plant 100.

By preventing failures and malfunctions, the invention allows minimizing downtime (or intervention times) of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100 due to failures or malfunctions.

By minimizing downtime, the invention also allows reducing the operating costs of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100.

By reducing management costs, the invention allows increasing the operating efficiency of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100.

The invention allows increasing the safety of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and of the relative electrical plant 100. The invention also allows maintaining an adequate temperature (not harmful) in a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type, in particular inside the busbar modules 51 and the junction boxes 52, and in the relative electrical plant 100.

The above advantages are shared and applicable by the temperature monitoring device 1 for a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type, by the temperature monitoring system 75 for a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type and by the method for monitoring a temperature of a prefabricated electrical conduit 50 of the busbar type described above.