Circuit Breaker Patents (Class 324/424)
  • Patent number: 8285500
    Abstract: A system, method and computer program product for processing utility data of a power grid is provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a datamart comprised of a plurality of physical databases storing utility data, a plurality of applications comprising an automated meter application configured to process power usage data from a plurality of automated meters, a power outage application configured to identify a location of a power outage, and a power restoration application configured to identify a location of a power restoration. The system may include an analysis engine comprising a plurality of analysis objects with each analysis object configured to process data to provide a specific analysis, wherein said analysis engine is accessible via one or more of the plurality of applications, and the system may include a report module configured to receive an output from the analysis engine and to output a report.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Current Communications Services, LLC
    Inventors: David G. Kreiss, Daniel S. Brancaccio
  • Publication number: 20120249151
    Abstract: A compact residual-current circuit breaker constructed for functional testing without any interruption of the downstream electric network includes two separate tripping circuits, wherein a first tripping circuit is independent of the mains voltage and a second tripping circuit is dependent on the mains voltage. During functional testing one of the tripping circuits the respective other tripping circuit monitors the electric network to be protected for fault currents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: Eaton GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Dobusch, Roman Kolm
  • Patent number: 8271214
    Abstract: A differential protection system has a differential protection device at each end of a line section of an electrical power transmission line, such that it can selectively identify and safely disconnect even high-impedance faults on the monitored line section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Tevfik Sezi
  • Patent number: 8264232
    Abstract: A device for measuring the wear of the contacts of a switchgear device is described. The switchgear device is of the open circuit breaker type with offset pole-shaft, and the movable contact is mounted on a sliding support. Measurement of the wear of the contacts is based on evaluation of the over-travel of the movable contact in the closed position when the latter slides in its support. This over-travel is determined by measuring the residual rotation of the pole-shaft, preferably by a contact-less magnetic rotation sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SAS
    Inventor: Marc Rival
  • Publication number: 20120217970
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes a test circuit that is configured to generate a recurring simulated fault signal. A detection circuit is configured to generate a test detection signal in response to the recurring simulated fault signal. An end-of-life monitor circuit is configured to generate an end-of-life detection signal if the test detection signal is not generated within a first predetermined period of time. At least one indicator is configured to emit an indication signal in response to the end-of-life detection signal. A response mechanism is configured to decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals after a second predetermined period of time has elapsed following the end-of-life detection signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: PASS & SEYMOUR, INC.
    Inventors: Bruce F. Macbeth, Jeffrey C. Richards, David A. Finlay, SR.
  • Publication number: 20120212231
    Abstract: In a switching device with at least one first electrical switching device input and at least one first electrical switching device output and at least one second electrical switching device output, wherein in a first operating state of the switching device the first switching device input is electrically connected with the first switching device output, wherein in a second operating state of the switching device the first switching device input is electrically connected with the second switching device output, is proposed to configure the switching device for uninterrupted switchover from the first operating state to the second operating state and/or from the second operating state to the first operating state to allow functional testing of a fault current circuit breaker without interruption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Eaton GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Dobusch, Roman Kolm
  • Patent number: 8232804
    Abstract: This invention relates to a time alert device (1) for use with an earth leakage protection device comprising a microprocessor system (10) provided with a software controlled alert trigger timer (22). On time out of the alert trigger timer, the microprocessor system (10) initiates an audible and/or visual annunciation to remind the user of the earth leakage protection device to perform integrity test on the earth leakage protection device. If the earth leakage protection device fails the integrity test, the user detects that the earth leakage protection device could be faulty and needs expert attention. If the earth leakage device passes the integrity test, the alert trigger timer is reset for another predetermined time interval to remind the user to perform another integrity test on the earth leakage protection device. The time alert device can be further provided with a message display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: See Ni Fong
  • Patent number: 8228067
    Abstract: A load bank that is used to test electrical connections. The connections are attached to the load bank, so that the switches are loaded during the testing. The overheating or underheating, of either switches or loads can be tested, evaluated, and used to determine faults and errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, LLC
    Inventors: Chris Conti, Marc Palmer, Robin Lee
  • Patent number: 8183869
    Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes a current transformer, phase conductor and neutral conductor. The phase conductor and the neutral conductor are each configured to pass through the transformer from line side to load side that are defined by the current transformer. The circuit interrupter generates a continuous test current by continuous current imbalance established between the load side of the phase conductor and the line side of the neutral conductor, or between the line side of the phase conductor and the load side of the neutral conductor. A continuous test conductor may be coupled correspondingly to establish the current imbalance. Alternatively, an integrated circuit coupled correspondingly receives power and is energized by a quiescent current thereby. The current imbalance is established by the quiescent current. The current transformer detects the quiescent current as the continuous test current. Corresponding methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David Chan, James A. Porter, Roger M. Bradley
  • Patent number: 8179139
    Abstract: The rechargeable battery abnormality detection apparatus is provided with an internal short circuit detection section (20b) that monitors rechargeable battery (1) voltage change when no charging or discharging takes place, and detects internal short circuit abnormality when battery voltage drop during a predetermined time period exceeds a preset threshold voltage; a degradation appraisal section (20d) that judges the degree of rechargeable battery degradation; and a threshold control section (20c) that incrementally increases the threshold voltage according to the degree of degradation determined by the degradation appraisal section (20d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Kawasumi, Toru Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 8174268
    Abstract: A system for collecting data and monitoring the operation of electrical circuits, such as branch circuits at a substation is provided. The system collects data from a plurality of sensors coupled to a plurality of electrical equipment associated with a circuit. The data from the sensors is collected and used to identify signatures in the data to ascertain potential issues in the electrical protective circuit. The data is further analyzed to determine signatures of abnormal operating conditions. The signatures are compared to reference signatures to identify the abnormal conditions and corrective action is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignees: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., Softstuf, Inc.
    Inventors: Sanjay Bose, Anthony T. Giuliante, Amir Makki
  • Patent number: 8164347
    Abstract: An arc fault demonstrator device for testing the efficacy of an arc fault interrupter (AFI) circuit breaker. The device includes a motor that moves a movable electrode relative to a stationary electrode under microprocessor control. A relay switches the electrodes connection between an arc voltage measurement circuit and an electrode close circuit. When current is applied to the electrodes, the measurement circuit provides voltage measurements to the microprocessor, which instructs the motor to move the electrodes closer or apart. When the arc voltage is below a low threshold, the electrodes are moved apart until the arc voltage exceeds a medium threshold. When the arc voltage exceeds a high threshold, the electrodes are moved closer until the arc voltage falls below the medium threshold. A switch switches between the AFI circuit breaker or a conventional circuit breaker to confirm that the AFI breaker will trip upon detection of the arc whereas the conventional breaker will not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy D. Schroeder, Ryan J. Moffitt, Brian Patrick Grove
  • Patent number: 8131285
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a transmission/reception channel matching apparatus for a mobile communication terminal and a mobile phone test equipment. The transmission/reception channel matching apparatus includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), a Dual In-line Package (DIP) switch, and a fastening casing. The PCB includes mobile communication terminal-side terminals to be electrically connected to option pins provided in the serial communication connector of the mobile communication terminal, and transmission and reception terminals corresponding to the transmission and reception channels of the mobile phone test equipment for transmitting a transmission signal to the mobile communication terminal and receiving a reception signal from the mobile communication terminal. The DIP switch is provided with a plurality of switches, is combined with the PCB, and selectively connects the mobile communication terminal-side terminals to the transmission and reception terminals depending on ON/OFF information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Innowireless Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jinsoup Joung, Kyeongmin Ha, Jongmin Kim, Sunglyong Lim
  • Patent number: 8125228
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes at least one sensor that provides a sensor output signal corresponding to electrical perturbations propagating on the plurality of line terminals or the plurality of load terminals. A protective circuit assembly configured to detect a fault condition when the sensor output signal substantially corresponds to at least one predetermined fault criterion and generate a trip actuation signal in response thereto. A solenoid coil is configured to generate a trip actuation force in response to the trip actuation signal. A circuit interrupter assembly includes movable contacts configured to be driven into a tripped state in response to the trip actuation force. An automatic fault simulation circuit is configured to generate a self-test signal without execution of software code. The self-test signal is generated such that it is sensed by the at least one sensor if the at least one sensor is operational.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Richards, David A. Finlay, Sr., Bruce F. Macbeth
  • Patent number: 8089282
    Abstract: A test assembly for a circuit breaker with a single pole module having first and second conduction paths electrically isolated from each other via an interior wall of the module and a circuit board. The test assembly includes an axle at an upper portion of the interior wall and having a first end and a second end extending along opposite sides of the interior wall, a test actuation member configured to be actuated, and a spring in operable communication with the test actuation member and in signal communication with the circuit board. The spring contacts the test actuation member and the first end of the axle when the test actuation member is actuated, the axle conducts an electrical signal to the spring, and the spring provides a test signal to the circuit board initiating a test operation of the circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Prashant Sudhakar Zende, Jorge Juan Bonilla, Ranjit Manohar Deshmukh, Pedro Luis Perez
  • Patent number: 8081001
    Abstract: A self-test circuit is provided that includes a signal circuit adapted to periodically output a circuit inhibitor signal to inhibit a breaking signal from a ground fault detector. The signal circuit is also adapted to periodically output a test signal simulating a ground fault. The self-test circuit also includes an alarm circuit adapted to receive an output signal from the ground fault detector in response to detecting the ground fault, and adapted to output an alarm when the ground fault detector is not operative. The signal circuit may be further adapted to periodically output a second test signal simulating a grounded neutral condition. A ground fault circuit interrupter system and a method are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: William P. Hooper, Hugh T. Kinsel, Susan Sneed Hooper, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8072717
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a protective wiring device for use in an electrical distribution system. The device includes a plurality of line terminals and a plurality of load terminals configured to be coupled to the plurality of line terminals in a reset state. A detector circuit is coupled to the plurality of line terminals. The detector circuit is configured to generate a detection signal in response to detecting at least one predefined perturbation in the electrical distribution system. A circuit interrupter assembly is coupled between the plurality of line terminals and the plurality of load terminals. The circuit interrupter assembly is configured to decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals in response to the detection signal. An end-of-life mechanism is coupled to the detector circuit. The end-of-life mechanism is configured to permanently decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals in the absence of an intervening signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Dejan Radosavljevic, Jeffrey C. Richards, Kent R. Morgan, David A. Finlay, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8072342
    Abstract: An overcurrent protection circuit connected between a voltage input and a voltage output of an electronic device to protect against excessive current is disclosed. The overcurrent protection circuit includes first to fifth resistors, a relay comprising a coil and a normally closed switch, a pnp transistor, and a break-over element. When a current between the voltage input and the voltage output is greater or equal to a rated current of the electronic device, the npn transistor is turned on, while the coil is powered on to control the switch to be opened, therefore the voltage output cannot output voltage, which can protect against excessive current damaging the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yong-Zhao Huang
  • Publication number: 20110279985
    Abstract: A protection switching system in a power supply distribution system, comprises at least one protection switch (25) comprising a controllable semiconductor arranged to conduct current through the power supply line in a normal mode, a control unit (27) arranged to place the at least one protection switch in a test mode in which the current is reduced compared to the normal mode, registration means (28, 29) for registering a test mode value of at least one electrical characteristic in the power supply line that will be affected when the test mode is applied, a monitoring unit (30; 47) arranged to evaluate the at least one electrical characteristic and determine, based on the evaluation, whether or not an action should be taken. If a malfunction is detected an alarm is issued to indicate to service personnel that the protection switch should be replaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (publ)
    Inventors: Johan Horman, Hans Kramer
  • Patent number: 8000933
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for showing data representative of the accuracy of switching operations executed by a high-voltage switchgear which is operatively coupled to a power line and to a synchronous switching device. Data related to switching operations executed by the high-voltage switchgear is recorded and then, based on the recorded data, values indicative of the accuracy of the switching operations executed with respect to predefined target switching operations are calculated. A histogram is formed using the calculated values and shown to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Anton Poeltl, Michael Mendik
  • Publication number: 20110148423
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes at least one sensor that provides a sensor output signal corresponding to electrical perturbations propagating on the plurality of line terminals or the plurality of load terminals. A protective circuit assembly configured to detect a fault condition when the sensor output signal substantially corresponds to at least one predetermined fault criterion and generate a trip actuation signal in response thereto. A solenoid coil is configured to generate a trip actuation force in response to the trip actuation signal. A circuit interrupter assembly includes movable contacts configured to be driven into a tripped state in response to the trip actuation force. An automatic fault simulation circuit is configured to generate a self-test signal without execution of software code. The self-test signal is generated such that it is sensed by the at least one sensor if the at least one sensor is operational.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Richards, David A. Finlay, SR., Bruce F. Macbeth, Thomas N. Packard
  • Publication number: 20110128005
    Abstract: A circuit breaker electronic trip unit includes a controller, and a memory that stores a threshold tripping duration. The memory is readable by the controller. The trip unit includes a trip signal output, and an input section that receives at least one of a phase current level signal, a phase or line voltage level signal, and a contact state change signal. The trip unit activates the trip signal output and monitors the input section for a predetermined signal change. The trip unit determines a tripping duration from a timing of the activation of the trip signal output and a timing of the predetermined signal change. The trip unit compares the tripping duration to the threshold tripping duration to determine a sluggish circuit breaker operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: UTILITY RELAY COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Helmut Weiher
  • Patent number: 7940051
    Abstract: A method for testing low voltage power circuit breakers having an electronic trip unit which includes a display and a microprocessor for controlling various protective functions and storing settings for such functions which can be selected and performed. Entering into the test mode disables functions not necessary for the testing to be performed. A current is injected into one of the phases of the breaker. The technician observes whether the breaker performs within the specifications for the selected protective function. Upon exiting the test mode, the breaker is automatically restored to the settings prior to the testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Algerd M. Ulinskas
  • Patent number: 7888949
    Abstract: An electronic testing machine includes a plurality of test modules. Each test module has a plurality of contact pairs for testing electronic components. An apparatus and process for electrical test setup and calibration of the electronic testing machine includes a plate having at least one contact per track movable between test positions to electrically insert a test device selectively between any one contact pair, and a control program. The test device can be selected from a group consisting of a volt meter, a current meter, a precision voltage/current source, a calibration resistor, and a calibration capacitor. The control program can perform at least one test function through the plate. The test function can be selected from a group consisting of alignment verification, voltage/current source verification, insulation resistance (IR) leakage measurement verification, part-present contact check verification, capacitance and dissipation (CD) measurement verification, IR/CD compensation, and IR/CD calibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Electro Scientific Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Spencer B. Barrett, Brandon J. McCurry, Kenneth V. Almonte
  • Patent number: 7864003
    Abstract: A circuit breaker and method include main contacts configured to connect in an on position and be separated in an off position. A handle is coupled to one of the main contacts to adjust the contacts between the on position, the off position, a trip position and an over on position. Secondary contacts are configured to provide power when connected using the handle in the over on position, even when the main contacts are separated. A stop mechanism configured to maintain separation between the main contacts to enable testing using the secondary contacts to power a test circuit such that if a test passes, the stop mechanism is released to permit resetting of the main contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventor: Guang Yang
  • Patent number: 7843197
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes an automatic self-test assembly coupled to the plurality of line terminals or the plurality of load terminals, the detection circuit, the fault detection circuit and the circuit interrupter assembly. The automatic self-test assembly is configured to cause the detection circuit to generate a simulated sensor fault signal during a predetermined half-cycle of an AC line cycle in accordance with a predetermined periodic testing schedule, monitor the fault detection signal corresponding to the simulated sensor fault signal, and generate a test result signal based on monitoring the fault detection signal. The automatic self-test assembly also includes a noise immunized decision circuit configured to evaluate a plurality of test results to thereby provide a noise immunized end-of-life signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Finlay, Sr., Thomas N. Packard, Bruce F. Macbeth
  • Patent number: 7834634
    Abstract: A circuit for, and method of, detecting a signal level on a node and a mobile telephone device incorporating the circuit or the method. In one embodiment, the circuit includes: (1) a switch coupled between a voltage source and the node, (2) a pulse generator coupled to the switch and configured to generate a pulse to control the switch and (3) a detection circuit coupled to the node and configured to detect a signal level at the node on closure of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.
    Inventors: David G. Martin, Richard Verney, Robert W. Walden
  • Publication number: 20100264928
    Abstract: A test assembly for a circuit breaker with a single pole module having first and second conduction paths electrically isolated from each other via an interior wall of the module and a circuit board. The test assembly includes an axle at an upper portion of the interior wall and having a first end and a second end extending along opposite sides of the interior wall, a test actuation member configured to be actuated, and a spring in operable communication with the test actuation member and in signal communication with the circuit board. The spring contacts the test actuation member and the first end of the axle when the test actuation member is actuated, the axle conducts an electrical signal to the spring, and the spring provides a test signal to the circuit board initiating a test operation of the circuit breaker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Prashant Sudhakar Zende, Jorge Juan Bonilla, Ranjit Manohar Deshmukh, Pedro Luis Perez
  • Publication number: 20100259347
    Abstract: A circuit interrupting device is disclosed that includes a first conductor, a second conductor, a switch between the first conductor and the second conductor wherein the switch is disposed to selectively connect and disconnect the first conductor and the second conductor, a circuit interrupter disposed to generate a circuit interrupting actuation signal, a solenoid coil and plunger assembly disposed to open the switch wherein the solenoid coil and plunger assembly is actuatable by the circuit interrupting actuation signal wherein movement of the plunger causes the switch to open, and a test assembly that is configured to enable a test of the circuit interrupter initiating at least a partial movement of the plunger in a test direction, from a pre-test configuration to a post-test configuration, without opening the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: William Ziegler, James Richter, Benjamin Moadel, Michael Kamor, James Porter, David Chan, Mario Angelides
  • Patent number: 7813842
    Abstract: The present embodiments provide systems and methods for implementing and controlling local power line communication (PLC) networks. Some embodiments include a central controller communicationally coupled with a PLC power line, a sensor adaptor coupled between the PLC power line and a consumer product, with the sensor adaptor comprising a current detector that detects a current usage level passed through the sensor adaptor, a PLC interface through which the current usage level is communicated over the PLC power line to the central controller, and an adaptor switch that interrupts current flow to the consumer product in response to a command received over the PLC power line from the central controller when the current usage through the sensor adaptor has a predetermined relationship to a first threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Ryuichi Iwamura
  • Patent number: 7791346
    Abstract: A device and method for testing an electrical power branch circuit that includes hot, neutral and protective ground conductors and that carries alternating current. The device includes circuitry for determining the total available short-circuit current that can be carried by the neutral conductor, circuitry for determining the total available ground-fault current that can be carried by the protective ground conductor, and circuitry that, based on at least one of the determined short-circuit current and the determined ground-fault current, applies a short-circuit or ground-fault current to the electrical power branch circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: KO Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert K. Waite, Paul A. Keleher
  • Patent number: 7755362
    Abstract: An electric switchgear (10) with a pole of the switchgear filled with insulating gas is provided. A monitoring device (14) is provided for monitoring the insulating gas in the switchgear pole. A device (20) is provided that has a test connection (28) for a testing device to test the monitoring device (14). The device (20) is connected to the monitoring device (14) and the switchgear pole. The device (20) has a valve (23), with which the switchgear pole can be detached from the monitoring device (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Areva Energietechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Achim Stelter
  • Patent number: 7751160
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a protective wiring device for use in an electrical distribution system. The device includes a plurality of line terminals and a plurality of load terminals configured to be coupled to the plurality of line terminals in a reset state. A detector circuit is coupled to the plurality of line terminals. The detector circuit is configured to generate a detection signal in response to detecting at least one predefined perturbation in the electrical distribution system. A circuit interrupter assembly is coupled between the plurality of line terminals and the plurality of load terminals. The circuit interrupter assembly is configured to decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals in response to the detection signal. An end-of-life mechanism is coupled to the detector circuit. The end-of-life mechanism is configured to permanently decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals in the absence of an intervening signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Dejan Radosavljevic, Jeffrey C. Richards, Kent Morgan, David A. Finlay, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7705601
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the remaining useable life, or “wellness,” of a contactor or motor starter, and for predicting impending faults of such a device, is disclosed. By monitoring actuating coil current, actuating coil voltage, line current, and/or line voltage, the present invention can calculate wellness metrics which, when compared to threshold values, may be used as indicators of remaining life and/or imminent failures. The invention also provides non-mechanical positive indications of proper closures and openings of contacts for safety interlocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Xin Zhou, Jan Walker
  • Publication number: 20100073002
    Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes a current transformer, phase conductor and neutral conductor. The phase conductor and the neutral conductor are each configured to pass through the transformer from line side to load side that are defined by the current transformer. The circuit interrupter generates a continuous test current by continuous current imbalance established between the load side of the phase conductor and the line side of the neutral conductor, or between the line side of the phase conductor and the load side of the neutral conductor. A continuous test conductor may be coupled correspondingly to establish the current imbalance. Alternatively, an integrated circuit coupled correspondingly receives power and is energized by a quiescent current thereby. The current imbalance is established by the quiescent current. The current transformer detects the quiescent current as the continuous test current. Corresponding methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: Leviton Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: David Chan, James A. Porter, Roger M. Bradley
  • Publication number: 20100052691
    Abstract: This invention relates to a time alert device (1) for use with an earth leakage protection device comprising a microprocessor system (10) provided with a software controlled alert trigger timer (22). On time out of the alert trigger timer, the microprocessor system (10) initiates an audible and/or visual annunciation to remind the user of the earth leakage protection device to perform integrity test on the earth leakage protection device. If the earth leakage protection device fails the integrity test, the user detects that the earth leakage protection device could be faulty and needs expert attention. If the earth leakage device passes the integrity test, the alert trigger timer is reset for another predetermined time interval to remind the user to perform another integrity test on the earth leakage protection device. The time alert device can be further provided with a message display panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: See Ni Fong
  • Patent number: 7605594
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring inspection system that includes a user interface device including processor circuitry, a user interface, and a first communications interface. The first communications interface is configured to transmit configuration data related to a plurality of electrical test procedures and receive test data corresponding to a plurality of electrical parameters. A branch circuit analysis device is configured to be coupled to the user interface device via the first communications interface and at least one branch circuit by at least one test connector. The branch circuit analysis device includes processor circuitry, branch circuit test circuitry configured to perform one or more of the plurality of electrical test procedures, and a second communications interface configured to transmit and receive configuration data related to a plurality of electrical test procedures and transmit and receive test data corresponding to a plurality of electrical parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick K. Blades
  • Publication number: 20090251148
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes an automatic self-test assembly coupled to the plurality of line terminals or the plurality of load terminals, the detection circuit, the fault detection circuit and the circuit interrupter assembly. The automatic self-test assembly is configured to cause the detection circuit to generate a simulated sensor fault signal during a predetermined half-cycle of an AC line cycle in accordance with a predetermined periodic testing schedule, monitor the fault detection signal corresponding to the simulated sensor fault signal, and generate a test result signal based on monitoring the fault detection signal. The automatic self-test assembly also includes a noise immunized decision circuit configured to evaluate a plurality of test results to thereby provide a noise immunized end-of-life signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Finlay, SR., Thomas N. Packard, Bruce F. Macbeth
  • Publication number: 20090243620
    Abstract: A method for testing low voltage power circuit breakers having an electronic trip unit which includes a display and a microprocessor for controlling various protective functions and storing settings for such functions which can be selected and performed. Entering into the test mode disables functions not necessary for the testing to be performed. A current is injected into one of the phases of the breaker. The technician observes whether the breaker performs within the specifications for the selected protective function. Upon exiting the test mode, the breaker is automatically restored to the settings prior to the testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Algerd M. Ulinskas
  • Patent number: 7570062
    Abstract: An arc fault circuit breaker includes a housing, separable contacts, an operating mechanism adapted to open and close the separable contacts, and an arc fault trip mechanism cooperating with the operating mechanism to trip open the separable contacts. The arc fault trip mechanism includes an arc fault test circuit adapted to simulate an arc fault trip condition to trip open the separable contacts. A proximity sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor, is adapted to sense a magnetic target to actuate the arc fault test circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick W. Mills, Kevin D. Gonyea, Richard G. Benshoff
  • Publication number: 20090189612
    Abstract: An arc fault circuit breaker includes a panel having a first side and an opposite second side, a housing coupled to the opposite second side of the panel, separable contacts, an operating mechanism structured to open and close the separable contacts, and a trip mechanism cooperating with the operating mechanism to trip open the separable contacts. The trip mechanism includes a test circuit structured to simulate a trip condition to trip open the separable contacts, and a proximity sensor disposed on or within the housing proximate the opposite second side of the panel. The proximity sensor is structured to sense a target to actuate the test circuit when the target is disposed proximate the first side of the panel and opposite the proximity sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: PATRICK W. MILLS, Richard G. Benshoff, James M. McCormick
  • Patent number: 7492163
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can include an arc fault detection circuit. The arc fault detection circuit can include a zero crossing analysis sub-system including a counter configured to determine, for a first waveform, a count of dips that occur between a pair of predetermined zero crossings of a second waveform. The second waveform can be obtained from an electrical circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos Restrepo, Peter Spenlove Staley
  • Patent number: 7463036
    Abstract: The measurement of analog coil voltage and coil current during the energizing of the circuit breaker coil that is connected to the output contact of a protective circuit breaker relay in order to detect an incipient failure of the circuit breaker mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Dale Finney, Adil Jaffer, Zhihong Mao, William Premerlani, Mark Adamiak
  • Patent number: 7439744
    Abstract: An apparatus for repeatably generating electrical arcs for testing an electrical switching device, such as an arc fault circuit interrupter, includes a stationary electrode and a movable electrode that is moved along a path of travel by an electromechanical device under the control of a controller that receives data from either a current measuring device or a voltage measuring device to detect the initiation of an arc. The movable electrode is caused to first make physical contact with the stationary electrode, and then is moved away from the stationary electrode until an arc is detected. Additionally, the movable electrode may be moved towards and away from the stationary electrode according to a test profile to control the magnitude of the randomness of the arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Dale Louis Gass, Kevin Lynn Parker, Birger Pahl, Jerome Kenneth Hastings, Joseph Charles Zuercher
  • Patent number: 7436644
    Abstract: A solenoid type switch has at least two driving coils. The driving coils turn off a switch with a current for example an overcurrent that flows in the switch. The driving coils are magnetized or demagnetized by a driving circuit so as to turn on or off the switch. The driving circuit magnetizes or demagnetizes the driving coils in accordance with a control signal supplied from a controlling circuit. Thus, the switch can be turned off with the current that flows in the driving coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Tamiji Nagai, Kazuo Yamazaki, Hitoshi Akiho, Takayuki Aita, Kenji Enomoto
  • Publication number: 20080246487
    Abstract: The patent describes an electric switchgear (10) with a pole of the switchgear filled with insulating gas, and it is provided with a monitoring device (14) for the insulating gas in the switchgear pole and with a test connection (28) for a testing device to test the monitoring device (14). A device (20) is provided that has a test connection (28). The device (20) is connected to the monitoring device (14) and the switchgear pole. The device (20) has a valve (23), with which the switchgear pole can be detached from the monitoring device (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: AREVA ENERGIETECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Achim Stelter
  • Patent number: 7405569
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed for measuring contact erosion in an electrical switching device by a dynamic resistance measurement (DRM). To determine an overlap time and a contact erosion in an exemplary switching device, a change in current across the switching device can be measured indirectly by a measurement current being passed across the switching device and a parallel conductor, the change in current in the parallel conductor being measured. Exemplary embodiments relate, to the following: detection of a differential current measurement signal in the parallel conductor with the aid of a Rogowski coil; and selection of a parallel conductor resistance on an order of the switch resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Marek Hagel, Patrick Fehlmann
  • Patent number: 7403015
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a circuit breaker that includes a monitoring device in electronic communication with the circuit breaker and a receiving device located separately from the monitoring device. The monitoring device receives data from the circuit breaker and wirelessly transmits at least a portion of the data such as one or more phase currents measured from a network which the circuit breaker protects, an ambient temperature within the circuit breaker, and/or data relating to a trip condition of the circuit breaker. The receiving device receives the transmitted data and displays all or a portion thereof. The monitoring device also includes a display that displays all or a portion of the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Harry J. Carlino, Todd M. Shaak
  • Publication number: 20080157776
    Abstract: A monitor circuit is provided which detects various incipient failure modes of a circuit breaker. The monitor circuit includes a processor and a primary circuit connected in circuit with the processor. The primary circuit may be configured for preventing transients and high currents associated with the operation of the circuit breaker from damaging the processor. A secondary circuit may be connected in circuit with the processor and the primary circuit. The secondary circuit provides an analog voltage input and a current input to the processor that is representative of an aspect of the circuit breaker and wherein the processor is configured to detect at least one failure mode of at least one circuit breaker from the analog voltage and current input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Adil Jaffer, Zhihong Mao
  • Patent number: 7385406
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring inspection system. The system includes an electrical measurement apparatus having at least one load center connector configured to couple the electrical measurement apparatus to a load center, at least one branch circuit connective device configured to couple the electrical measurement apparatus to a portion of a branch circuit, and at least one electrical measurement circuit disposed between the at least one load center connector and the at least one branch circuit connective device. The at least one electrical measurement circuit is configured to perform a series of electrical test procedures to obtain a plurality of electrical parameters. A portable computing device (PCD) includes processing circuitry, a user interface coupled to the processing circuitry, and at least one communications interface configured to couple the portable computing device to the electrical measurement apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick K. Blades