Abstract: A high-frequency resistant ground fault circuit interrupter (HF-GFCI) with self-test and end-of-life detection is disclosed. The invention incorporates a noise-resistant fault detection circuit, an auto-test module, and an end-of-life shutdown mechanism to ensure reliable protection. The device minimizes false tripping due to high-frequency noise and enhances safety through continuous self-monitoring. Experimental validation confirms improved immunity to leakage currents and transient voltage disturbances. The HF-GFCI also provides an LED circuit having dual functionality: an LED indicator circuit and neutral to ground detection on the load side of the HF-GFCI.

Abstract: A LCDI power cord circuit is provided. The circuit includes energizing shielded wires and monitoring the energized shields for surges, e.g., arcing, and/or voltage drops, e.g., shield breaks detected by a Power Cord Fault Circuit (PCFC). The PCFC includes one dual purpose amplifying/switch transistor and the LCDI power cord circuit does not include any discrete capacitive components.

Abstract: A power cord with leakage current detection function includes an insulated neutral wire and aluminum foil wrapping or surrounding the neutral wire insulator. The neutral wire aluminum foil has a conductive side and a non-conductive side, wherein the non-conductive side is adjacent to the outside of the neutral wire insulator and the conductive side is facing outwards. The power cord also includes an insulated line wire surrounded by aluminum foil where the conductive side is facing outwards and in contact with the conductive side of the aluminum foil surround the neutral wire. The power cord also includes a copper braid surrounding an insulated ground wire, wherein the copper braid is in simultaneous electrical contact with the conductive sides of the line and neutral aluminum foil wraps.

Abstract: A GFCI latching apparatus and circuit is provided. The latching apparatus includes a solenoid; a solenoid plunger, wherein the solenoid plunger comprises a groove; a conical spring disposed at one end of the solenoid plunger; a forked latch, wherein the forked latch engages the groove with its forks. The latch also includes a bevel surface. Also included is a contact carrier having a first position when the solenoid is energized and a second position when the solenoid is deenergized. The contact carrier includes a bevel surface for mating with the latch bevel surface when the solenoid is energized. Also included is a GFCI configured to deenergize the solenoid upon the occurrence of a fault to disengage the latch, the latch thereby disengaging from the contact carrier, causing the contact carrier to move from the first position to the second position. The GFCI circuit detects ground faults and deenergizes the solenoid when a ground fault is detected.

Abstract: A water and flame barrier button assembly is incorporated into an electrical enclosure such as a GFCI housing to provide water and flame resistant set and reset buttons. The buttons are contained within flexible sealing frames that allow one end of the buttons to extend through the top portion of the GFCI housing while the opposite end of the button is exposed within the base portion of the sealing frame. The base portion of the sealing frame attaches to the interior of the housing with the exposed button end positioned inward of the sealing frame base. The base of the sealing frame contacts the GFCI circuit board while providing a rebound force to return either the set or reset button exposed end from a position depressed and in contact with the circuit board to a position not in contact with the circuit board and returning inward of the sealing frame base.

Abstract: A programmable arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is provided. The programmable AFCI includes a dual resistive shunt array for developing inputs to an analog front end which in turn develops trigger quantities for input to a programmable processor. The programmable processor determines if the trigger quantities, singularly, or in the aggregate, exceed predetermined thresholds. Determining the predetermined thresholds are exceeded the processor issues a trigger command to momentarily energize a delatching coil, thus removing AC mains power from a load.

Abstract: A leakage current detection and interruption (LCDI) device, for use as a safety device for a cable connecting, a power source with a load. The LCDI having a safety circuit that senses the presence of an arcing condition between one of the conducting lines and a metal sheath, and in response thereto, opens at least one of the conducting lines between the power supply and the load. The structure of the LCDI circuit card assembly incorporates a load input cavity having fire retardant materials surrounding the load input terminals, and further includes a contact actuator which encases the switch or contact arm at the source input section of the LCDI.