Circuit Breaker Patents (Class 324/424)
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Patent number: 11569651Abstract: An electrical receptacle contains a plug outlet that has a pair of contacts for electrical connection to respective hot and neutral power lines. A controlled switch, such as a TRIAC, is connected in series relationship between the outlet contact and the hot power line. Sensors in the receptacle outputs signals to a processor having an output coupled to the control terminal of the controlled switch. The processor outputs an activation signal or a deactivation signal to the controlled switch in response to received sensor signals that are indicative of conditions relative to the first and second contacts.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2022Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Assignee: Brainwave Research CorporationInventors: John Eriksen, Jean-Guy Gagne, Rene K. Pardo
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Patent number: 11531066Abstract: The invention relates to a control unit for a medium voltage switching apparatus. The control unit is adapted to carry out a diagnostic method to check operating conditions of one or more components of said electric poles. The diagnostic method includes the following steps: basing on a selected ideal position curve, obtaining one or more first curves indicative of an ideal behaviour of said switching apparatus, during an opening manoeuvre or closing manoeuvre of the switching apparatus; basing on detection signals provided by a closed-loop control arrangement of said control unit, calculating one or more second curves indicative of an actual behaviour of said switching apparatus, during an opening manoeuvre or closing manoeuvre of said switching apparatus; and carrying out a comparison procedure among said first and second curves.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2020Date of Patent: December 20, 2022Assignee: ABB SCHWEIZ AGInventors: Andrea Bianco, Andrea Ricci, Elisabeth Lindell, Stefan Halén, Fabio Mannino
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Patent number: 11501931Abstract: A circuit interrupter including a line conductor, a neutral conductor, a printed-circuit board coil, and a test circuit. The printed-circuit board coil has an aperture configured to receive the line conductor. The test circuit is electrically connected to the printed-circuit board coil. The test circuit is configured to determine an arc fault condition based on a signal of the printed-circuit board coil.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2019Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventor: John E. Brower
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Patent number: 11482853Abstract: An apparatus comprises a switch, a current monitor, and a controller. During operation, the switch controls an amount of current through the load. The current monitor samples a magnitude of the current through the load, a magnitude of which varies over time during a time duration. Based on integrating the sample magnitudes of the current through the load over the time duration, the current monitor produces a current sense value. The current sense value is representative of an amount of current through the load. The controller controls an operational state of the switch based upon a comparison of the current sense value with respect to an over-current threshold value. For example, in response to detecting a condition in which the current sense value is greater than the overcurrent threshold value, the controller turns OFF (deactivates) the switch, reducing or eliminating delivery of current through the load.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2020Date of Patent: October 25, 2022Assignee: Infineon Technologies Austria AGInventors: Aliaksandr Subotski, David Grant Cox, Jorge Arturo Ramirez Rivero
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Patent number: 11467212Abstract: A battery pack including first and second battery contactors respectively having first ends electrically connected to positive and negative electrode terminals of a battery; first and second charging contactors respectively having first ends electrically connected to second ends of the first and second battery contactors; a second power connector of a charger having first and second output terminals respectively electrically connected to the first and second input terminals being connected to the first power connector; and a control unit configured to, when a charger is connected and a charging request is received, control the first and second charging contactors to both be in a turn-on state or a turn-off state at the same time, and diagnosing a fault of each of the first charging contactor and the second charging contactor.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2018Date of Patent: October 11, 2022Inventor: Sang-Hyeok Ham
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Patent number: 11462899Abstract: An electrical receptacle contains a plug outlet that has a pair of contacts for electrical connection to respective hot and neutral power lines. A controlled switch, such as a TRIAC, is connected in series relationship between the outlet contact and the hot power line. Sensors in the receptacle outputs signals to a processor having an output coupled to the control terminal of the controlled switch. The processor outputs an activation signal or a deactivation signal to the controlled switch in response to received sensor signals that are indicative of conditions relative to the first and second contacts.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2020Date of Patent: October 4, 2022Assignee: Brainwave Research CorporationInventors: John Eriksen, Jean-Guy Gagne, James W. Rogers, Patrick Belanger, Rene K. Pardo
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Patent number: 11402457Abstract: A system and a method for an integrated test on a primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker. The method includes: establishing an electrical connection between the system and the primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker; establishing a communication connection between the system and the primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker; applying, by the system, a voltage signal and a current signal to the primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker through the electrical connection, to generate a voltage and a current on the primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker; collecting, by the system, signals of the voltage and the current fed back from the primary-secondary pole-mounted breaker through the communication connection; performing, by the system, an integrated accuracy test and an integrated protection test; outputting a test result of the accuracy test and a test result of the integrated protection test to the industrial control machine, to generate the test report.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2020Date of Patent: August 2, 2022Assignees: ZHEJIANG HUADIAN EQUIPMENT TESTING INSTITUTE CO., LTD., STATE GRID ZHEJIANG HAIYAN COUNTY POWER SUPPLY CO., LTD., STATE GRID ZHEJIANG ELECTRIC POWER CO., LTD.Inventors: Zhi Li, Jingbo Hu, Zhiyao Zheng, Yibo Gao, Shaofeng Yu, Yifang Su, Gang Wu, Jianqin Lin, Hanpeng Yang, Weiliang Bian, Aimin Xu
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Patent number: 11361926Abstract: A system is described herein, including an activation circuit configured to generate a signal indicative of an alarm condition. A residual current device trigger circuit is coupled to the activation circuit and a residual current device. The residual current device trigger circuit is configured to provide a simulated earth leakage current condition to trigger the residual current device on receiving the signal indicative of the alarm condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2017Date of Patent: June 14, 2022Inventor: Hong Cheng
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Patent number: 11300617Abstract: Implementations of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) self-test circuits may include: a current transformer coupled to a controller, a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) test loop coupled to the controller, a ground fault test loop coupled to the controller, and a solenoid coupled to the controller. The SCR test loop may be configured to conduct an SCR self-test during a first half wave portion of a phase and the ground fault test loop may be configured to conduct a ground fault self-test during a second half wave portion of a phase. An SCR may be configured to activate the solenoid to deny power to a load upon one of the SCR self-test or the ground fault self-test being identified as failing.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2019Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: SEMICONDUCTOR COMPONENTS INDUSTRIES, LLCInventors: Bruce G. Armstrong, Rishi Pratap Singh, Sanath Kumar Kondur Surya Kumar, Riley Beck
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Patent number: 11290101Abstract: A solid state power switch device comprises a switch unit comprising at least one switch element configured to provide power supply to a load of a vehicle while the switch element is in close state; a switch control unit in communication with the switch unit, and configured to control in open/close state the switch element; the switch control unit comprising a built in self-test module of the switch element configured to control a self-test sequence of the switch element and to check failure/success of the self-test sequence of the switch element such that the switch unit is self-tested.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2019Date of Patent: March 29, 2022Assignee: Aptiv Technologies LimitedInventors: Peter P. Ebbinghaus, Detlef Boll, Emmanuel Boudoux, Sebastian Yousef
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Patent number: 11258246Abstract: Ground fault circuit interrupter is provided, including a transformer, a protection switch, a residual current protection control unit, a residual current simulation unit and a self-test unit, wherein the self-test unit is coupled with the line where the protection switch is located; in a self-test state, the self-test unit is configured to control the residual current simulation unit to generate a simulated residual current, detect a level change on the line where the protection switch is located, and control the protection switch to be disconnected from the residual current protection control unit or to make the line where the protection switch is located be conducted after a preset protection time period of receiving the residual current signal higher than a preset operating threshold. Improper actions of the ground fault circuit interrupter caused by a large electromotive force generated when a simulated residual current disappears are avoided.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2020Date of Patent: February 22, 2022Assignee: Shanghai Fudan Microelectronics Group Company LimitedInventors: Chunyong Wu, Lei Shen, Jiwen Gong, Yang Liu, Shusen Hao
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Patent number: 11228168Abstract: In one example, an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is provided. The AFCI may include a plurality of current arc signature detection blocks configured to output a plurality of corresponding current arc signatures, and a processor. The processor may be configured to receive each of the plurality of current arc signature from each of plurality of current arc signature detection blocks, respectively, and generate a first trigger signal. The processor may be further configured to assess each of the current arc signatures, determine whether an arc fault exists based on the assessment, and generate the first trigger signal if an arc fault is determined to exist. A method for detecting an arc fault is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2019Date of Patent: January 18, 2022Inventor: Ze Chen
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Patent number: 11101635Abstract: A protective relay test equipment operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a switch unit for, upon reception of a trip signal or a close signal from a protective relay, changing an electrical connection state between a first port configured to be electrically connected to test equipment that generates a test signal and a second port configured to be electrically connected to the protective relay; a measurement unit for measuring a voltage and a current between the first port and the second port during a test period in which an operation time point of the switch unit is a start time point or an end time point; and a calculation unit for calculating a plurality of time point-specific impedance values within the test period according to a measurement result of the measurement unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2017Date of Patent: August 24, 2021Assignee: KOREA ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATIONInventors: Young-Hun Kwon, Ki-Seob YuN, Guk-Tae Kim
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Patent number: 11088527Abstract: An arc fault identification unit for an electrical three-phase alternating current circuit with three phase conductors and a neutral conductor. The identification unit includes voltage sensors to periodically determine phase/neutral conductor voltage values and phase/phase voltage values current sensors to periodically determine phase conductor current variables which are used to determine the phase conductor current value and a value for the change in the electrical current over time per phase, and an evaluation unit connected to the voltage and current sensors. A current root mean square is compared with a current threshold value in each case and an excess current signal is emitted if the threshold value is exceeded; arc voltages are calculated and are compared with threshold values, with the result that arc fault identification signals are output.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2017Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Joerg Meyer, Peter Schegner, Karsten Wenzlaff, Stefan Widmann
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Patent number: 11047921Abstract: The present invention is directed to electrical wiring device that includes: a housing including a cover and a back body, the housing further including a plurality of line terminals and a plurality of feed-through load terminals, a plurality of receptacle load terminals substantially aligned with a plurality of receptacle openings; a fault protection circuit disposed inside the housing, having sensing components mounted to one side of a first PCB, the fault protection circuit being configured to provide a fault detection signal in response to detecting at least one type of predetermined fault condition; a circuit interrupter disposed inside the housing, the circuit interrupter being configured to couple the plurality respective terminals in response to a reset stimulus being applied to a reset button, the circuit interrupter being configured to decouple the respective plurality of terminals in a second state when the latching element and a reset pin are decoupled in response to the fault detection signal; andType: GrantFiled: April 24, 2019Date of Patent: June 29, 2021Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.Inventor: Richard Weeks
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Patent number: 10971918Abstract: In accordance with example embodiments, an automated ground fault interrupter includes means for resetting itself following detection of a ground fault. In accordance with example embodiments, when a ground fault is detected, a relay switch opens and breaks the conducting path between an AC input and a plug for connecting devices for a set amount of time after which the relay switch is closed again, restoring the conducting path between the plug and the AC input. Following restoration of the conducting path, the relay switch is opened again if a ground fault is detected. In accordance with example embodiments, the automated ground fault interrupter automatically tests itself at predetermined intervals. In accordance with example embodiments, the ground fault interrupter is automatically reset following the automatic test.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2018Date of Patent: April 6, 2021Assignee: ARCONAS CORPORATIONInventor: Albert Mardianto Kurniawan
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Patent number: 10896788Abstract: An electronic trip unit is for a low-voltage circuit breaker of a three-phase AC circuit. The electronic trip unit includes a housing with a front, rear, left-hand, right-hand, top and bottom face; a controller to compare current measurement values of the three-phase AC circuit with at least one of current limit values, current period limit values and time period limit values and to output a tripping signal, for interrupting the three-phase AC circuit, upon the values being exceeded. The electronic trip unit further includes a receptacle to provide a connection between the electronic trip unit and the module, the module being receivable by the left-hand, right-hand, top or bottom side face of the housing. At least one function of the electronic trip unit is activated upon the module being received. The front face of the housing includes a viewing window. At least a portion of a received module is visible.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2018Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Gerd Mueller, Gerhard Tietz
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Patent number: 10890345Abstract: A method of facilitating configuration of at least one sensor with a data transmitter communicatively coupled to an analysis engine for a building management system, wherein the application is configured to be run on a mobile device and interact with the at least one sensor during the installation. The method includes communicating, by the application, with the at least one sensor to display a visual indicator, capturing, by a camera of the mobile device, visual data representative of the visual indicator, and associating the at least one sensor with a circuit of a building power system based on the captured visual data.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2018Date of Patent: January 12, 2021Assignee: Verdigris Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Daniela Li, Michael Roberts, Joe Phaneuf, William Chan
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Patent number: 10852355Abstract: An electrical protection apparatus includes at least one first or main electrical protection function able to be carried out by a microcontroller and a button termed a test button intended to be actuated by a user to give rise to the implementation of the testing of at least one second electrical function, this implementation of the test being intended to give rise to the tripping of the protection apparatus D. The electrical protection apparatus includes a device for pooling the actuation of this test button with at least one action intended to carry out a third function, as a function of various types of action exerted on the test button, these actions being detected by the microcontroller, the aim being for the latter to give the order to carry out one of the third functions or else the testing of one of the second functions.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2017Date of Patent: December 1, 2020Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SASInventor: Jean-Baptiste Bernard
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Patent number: 10802052Abstract: Systems and methods can be used in connection with a circuit multi-tester including phase rotation-measurement circuitry. A power-testing device comprising a plug and an enclosure with circuitry can be used to display various power characteristics of a receptacle. The plug of the power-testing device can be received into a compatible power receptacle. The reception of the plug into the receptacle can allow for power communication from a power source supplying power to the power receptacle and the power-testing device for power measurement purposes. The power-testing device can include an enclosure with circuitry that can measure phase rotation information and can detect the presence of power on power lines of the receptacle. Based on the detected presence of power and phase rotation information, the power-testing device can output a visual indicator to the technician that represents the presence of the power and phase rotation orientation.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2018Date of Patent: October 13, 2020Assignee: Truist BankInventor: William Henry Karnes
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Patent number: 10777996Abstract: An electronic overload current breaker supports arc-fault and ground-fault (AFGF) detection along with built-in shunt calibration (BISC™). The breaker may include a current sensing shunt and a control circuit electrically coupled to the current sensing shunt. This control circuit is configured to calibrate the current sensing shunt in response to application of a calibration current to the breaker. The control circuit can: (i) determine a magnitude of the calibration current applied to the breaker, (ii) map the magnitude of the calibration current to a first one of a plurality of current ratings for the breaker, and (iii) set the breaker to monitor overload conditions at the first one of the plurality of current ratings. The plurality of current ratings for the breaker can be less than the magnitude of the calibration current.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2018Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power LimitedInventors: Jian Jiao, Jason Kohei Okerman, Sandy Omar Jimenez
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Patent number: 10605867Abstract: In order to test substations from different manufacturers and of different types in a simple manner, it is provided that a control unit (6) for a switching device (5) of a substation (4) is connected via an adapter cable (11) to a test device (10), which simulates the switching device (5) for the test and the test device (10) reads configuration-specific data from a memory unit (15) on the adapter cable (11) and the test unit (10) thus configures its signal inputs (BE) and signal outputs (BA, AA) that are required for conducting the test.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2015Date of Patent: March 31, 2020Assignee: OMICRON ELECTRONICS GMBHInventors: Michael Jochum, Stephan Geiger, Rainer Kueng
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Patent number: 10598731Abstract: A circuit interrupter includes a sensor structured to output a sensor signal, a control unit structured to receive an external control signal, the control unit including: a communication interface structured to receive the external control signal, and a waveform generator structured to generate a waveform equivalent to the sensor signal in response to the external control, and a signal processing circuit structured to receive and process the sensor signal or the generated waveform and to output the processed sensor signal or generated waveform to the control unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2014Date of Patent: March 24, 2020Assignee: EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LIMITEDInventors: Theodore J. Miller, Lothar Jagusch
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Patent number: 10571504Abstract: An electric power equipment comprises: a display module; a sensor module for outputting measurement data including a first noise signal measured from inside of the electric power equipment, a second noise signal measured from outside of the electric power equipment, a temperature signal of the electric power equipment, and a humidity signal of the electric power equipment; and a control module for diagnosing whether a partial discharge has occurred based on the measurement data, wherein the control module includes: a determination unit for determining whether a signal magnitude of the first noise signal is within a preset first reference range; an analysis unit for diagnosing an occurrence of the partial discharge, and for analyzing the signals according to the analysis algorithm; and a control unit for controlling a result information of the analyzing, and a maintenance and repair information, to be displayed.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2017Date of Patent: February 25, 2020Assignee: LSIS CO., LTD.Inventor: Jinho Lee
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Patent number: 10543554Abstract: A welding or cutting system is provided that uses welding cables between a wire feeder and a power supply for high-speed data communications between the wire feeder and the power supply. A system designed as discussed herein eliminates the need for voltage and/or current sense leads for communication arc voltages/currents detected at the welding operation.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2014Date of Patent: January 28, 2020Assignee: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.Inventors: Nicholas Trinnes, William T Matthews
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Patent number: 10546675Abstract: A method for detecting a fault of an actuator of a recloser, the actuator controlled by a coil to move between a first position and a second position, the method including: controlling the coil to move the actuator from the first position to the second position; monitoring, for a period of time, either or both of a current flowing through the coil and a voltage across the coil when the actuator is moving from the first position to the second position; and detecting the fault when the monitored current or the monitored voltage fails a predetermined condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2016Date of Patent: January 28, 2020Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SASInventor: Remi Forcet
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Patent number: 10498129Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an electrical device, an electrical system and a corresponding terminal device. The electrical device comprises a sensing unit for sensing operational data of the electrical device during its operation, the operational data including at a voltage, a current for an electric component of the electrical device, a temperature of the electrical device during its operation, and combinations thereof. The electrical device further comprises a storage unit for storing the operational data so that a cause of failure is analyzed by means of the stored operational data when a failure occurs in the electrical device. The electrical device provided by embodiments of the invention can alleviate or mitigate the problem that that it is difficult in the prior art to determine the cause of failure after a failure occurs in the electrical device.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2016Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.Inventor: Wenting Dang
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Patent number: 10473729Abstract: To reduce the rate at which a false alternating current (“AC”) loss alarming signal is generated, but at the same time detect an actual AC loss situation in a timely manner, the disclosed method describes an AC line power loss detection and active verification method. If the AC line input voltage dips momentarily lower than a standard sine wave amplitude, the AC line may not be considered lost as long as it still has energy to drive a load. The method inserts a momentary load across the AC line and compares the AC line voltage before and after the extra load is applied. If the AC power is present, this extra loading will increase the AC loading current momentarily, but will not affect the AC line voltage. However, if the AC power is lost, such loading will lower the AC line voltage, indicating a loss of power.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2016Date of Patent: November 12, 2019Assignee: CISCO TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventors: Xiqun Zhu, Sung Kee Baek, Robert Gregory Twiss
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Patent number: 10468866Abstract: A circuit interrupting device including a fault detection circuit and an auto-monitoring circuit. The fault detection circuit is configured to detect a fault condition of the circuit interrupting device, and output a fault detection signal in response to detecting the fault condition. Wherein the fault detection signal is configured to place the circuit interrupting device in a tripped condition. The fault detection circuit is further configured to output a pre-trigger signal, wherein the pre-trigger signal is configured to not place the circuit interrupting device in the tripped condition. The auto-monitoring circuit is configured to monitor an auto-monitoring input signal, wherein the value of the auto-monitoring signal is at least partially determined by a value of a pre-trigger signal generated.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2017Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventor: Stephen Paul Simonin
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Patent number: 10442108Abstract: Table saws are disclosed. The table saws can include a blade, an arbor, an arbor block, an elevation carriage, and a latch that connects the arbor block and the elevation carriage. The arbor block can have a first position in which the latch connects the arbor block and the elevation carriage, and a second position in which the latch does not connect the arbor block and the elevation carriage. The arbor block can pivot from the first position to the second position upon the occurrence of a retraction force. The table saw can include an actuator to cause the occurrence of the retraction force, and detection electronics to detect contact between the blade and a person. Woodworking machines with detection and reaction systems are also disclosed. A reaction system can include an explosive that causes retraction of a cutting tool.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2017Date of Patent: October 15, 2019Assignee: SawStop Holding LLCInventors: Stephen F. Gass, J. David Fulmer, David A. Fanning
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Patent number: 10423755Abstract: Motor control centers are designed and configured by a series of interface screens that are served to a configuration computer. The system configuration may be based on a default configuration, and customization is made based upon user selection or input of data via the interface screens. The particular screens presented and the type and detail of data presented may be adapted so that more or less is available based upon a security access model. The system may be fully integrated with various other systems, such as enterprise resource planning tools. The system may be online, such that the interface, data, offerings, options and so forth may be easily adapted and updated, and design and configuration may be made by different parties at different locations with a minimum of specialized configuration computer programming.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2014Date of Patent: September 24, 2019Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Shane Dean Cleasby, Elizabeth Walmsley Schrock, Steven Louis Fischer, Ken Sriri Rangsy, Donald Dennis Skarda
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Patent number: 10276331Abstract: A blocking member for an actuator having a movable arm for effecting a quick-make feature, includes for example, an elongated member having a first end and a second end, and wherein a portion of said elongated member being configured so that said blocking member disposed in a first position engages a portion of the movable arm of the actuator to restrain movement of the movable arm, and so that said blocking member disposed in a second position disengages from the portion of the movable arm of the actuator to permit movement of the movable arm.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2016Date of Patent: April 30, 2019Assignee: ABB Schweiz AGInventors: David Peter Mika, Linda Yvonne Jacobs, Daniel Edward Delfino, Nagesh V. Tumu, Dmitry Povolotskiy
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Patent number: 10236681Abstract: A power cable assembly includes a power cable extending between a first end and a second end having a hot conductor and a neutral conductor. The power cable assembly includes a circuit protection device along the power cable between the first and second ends. The circuit protection device has a ground fault circuit interrupt (GFCI) device configured to sense a current difference on the hot and neutral conductors to initiate a triggering event. The circuit protection device has a high-power relay device connected to the GFCI device. The high-power relay device is connected to the hot conductor and is configured to open the hot line when the triggering event is initiated by the GFCI device.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2016Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Assignee: TE CONNECTIVITY CORPORATIONInventors: Roger Lee Thrush, Sean Delaney O'Brien, Thomas Michael Banas
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Patent number: 10132852Abstract: An apparatus that includes a power amplifier; a load that is operatively connected to be electrically driven from the power amplifier; and an impedance monitor that is configured to in real-time identify a favorable segment within an output waveform of the power amplifier, model the baseline power spectral density of a load driven by the power amplifier during the identified segment of the output waveform, sample an empirical power spectral density of the load during the identified segment of the output waveform, and indicate a load fault in the event that the empirical power spectral density deviates from the baseline power spectral density beyond at least one pre-determined error criteria.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2014Date of Patent: November 20, 2018Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Margaret Ann Wiza, Louis Martin Frigo, Melissa Jean Freeman, Douglas Link, Michael Thomas Rose, Andrew John Panos
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Patent number: 10126358Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method and a corresponding circuit for the fault detection of an electrical circuit, wherein the electrical circuit includes a first inductive interface, at least a first branch, and a second branch, wherein the first and the second branches are connected in parallel, wherein the first branch includes two parallel and counter-currently-connected diodes, and wherein the first and second branches are connected to the first inductive interface. The method includes applying an alternating voltage or an alternating current across the first inductive interface via a second inductive interface, wherein the applied voltage or current is low enough that essentially no current flows through either the first or the second diode; measuring the impedance across the first inductive interface via the second inductive interface; and determining whether a fault is present in the second branch.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2017Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Assignee: Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KGInventor: Stefan Pilz
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Patent number: 10033180Abstract: The present invention relates to a ground fault protection circuit and a ground fault circuit interrupter. A ground fault protection circuit may include a power supply circuit, a ground fault detection circuit, a signal amplifying and shaping circuit, a microcontroller control circuit, a power supply detection and indicator circuit, a tripping mechanism control circuit, and a reverse grounding detection and execution circuit. A ground fault circuit interrupter may comprise an interrupter body with a ground fault protection circuit in the interrupter body. The practice of the present disclosure may address installation safety risks of conventional ground fault circuit interrupters and arc fault circuit interrupter and improve the safety of ground fault circuit interrupters.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2015Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Inventor: Ze Chen
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Patent number: 9991695Abstract: A charging circuit interrupting device for applying an input voltage provided by first and second input power lines of a power system to first and second output power lines of an output system includes a current-detecting unit, a self-test device, and a controller. The current-detecting unit executes a leakage-detection function and generates a leakage signal when the current difference between the first and second power lines is detected. The self-test device generates a bypass path according to the detection enable signal so that there is a current difference between the first and the second input power lines. When operating in a self-test mode, the controller generates the detection enable signal, determines that the leakage-detecting function is normal, and enters a normal mode to apply the input voltage to the output system when the leakage signal is received.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2015Date of Patent: June 5, 2018Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Ming-Whang Wang
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Patent number: 9923377Abstract: An electrical equipment cabinet has a standby battery to supply current when a mains connection is not available. In normal operation the battery is maintained charged by the mains supply. In order to test the condition of the battery, a measuring system is arranged to operation in co-operation with a test of a residual current detection device, which temporarily disconnects the mains supply, thus measuring the condition of the battery, when under load.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2013Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: British Telecommunications Public Limited CompanyInventor: John Warren
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Patent number: 9906014Abstract: A circuit protection device with self fault detection function comprises a ground fault protection unit and a self fault detection unit, the ground fault protection unit can achieve the ground fault detection and protection function for AC power source power circuit and electrical appliance. The self fault detection unit is provided with two delay circuits which can achieve the fault detection at an early stage of power-on and periodically fault detection function. The ground fault protection circuit and the self fault detection unit can operate in time sharing, and achieve self fault detection without interruption of power supply. The self fault detection unit and the ground fault protection unit are separated from high impedance. Any fault occurred on any element in the self fault detection unit may not impair the protection ability of the ground fault protection unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2015Date of Patent: February 27, 2018Assignee: ZHEJIANG TRIMONE ELECTRIC SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Shaohua Gao, Gaoke Zheng
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Patent number: 9864009Abstract: A ZSI testing apparatus includes a fault generation circuit, a plurality of cable assemblies coupled to the fault generation circuit, wherein the cable assemblies are structured to be selectively coupled to selected circuit interrupters, a human machine interface, and a controller coupled. The controller is configured to: (i) selectively cause a fault current to be provided to a number of the cable assemblies, (ii) receive an input from each circuit interrupter that is coupled to one of the cable assemblies, each input being indicative of a trip signal output of the circuit interrupter, (iii) determine based on the received inputs (a) that an error has occurred with respect to operation of the circuit interrupters and (b) a recommendation for fixing the error, and (iv) cause an output indicative of the error and the recommendation to be provided on the human machine interface.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2016Date of Patent: January 9, 2018Assignee: EATON CORPORATIONInventor: Alec Dane Burkle
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Patent number: 9797953Abstract: A self-test module of an electronic circuit breaker includes a power supply assembly with a rechargeable battery, a self-test enablement assembly, an induced power supply assembly, a boost power supply, and a micro control unit (MCU). The self-test enablement assembly is connected to the rechargeable battery and includes an enablement button, a capacitor and a first power chip connected in series. The induced power supply assembly includes a buck chip. The boost power supply includes a second power chip and a boost chip connected in series. The MCU includes a plurality of pins that are connected to the first and second power chips, the buck chip, and the boost chip. The self-test module has two working modes; the electronic circuit breaker may be provided with or without a load current. The MCU operates the self-test procedure, indicates the self-test status, and maintains the indication for a period of time.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignees: SEARI ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., ZHEJIANG CHINT ELECTRICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Yinglong Hu, Lijun Chen, Xianjun Yi
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Patent number: 9793068Abstract: An indicator system for an electronic miniature circuit breaker that has tripped and therefore has no power to provide its own trip indication comprises a breaker in a tripping state and an adjacent breaker in a nontripping state, both with aligned indicator light tubes and data transmission lines or light pipes. The tripped, or tripping, breaker sends a Notice of Trip Data signal before its contacts open and its power goes out, or does so on reserve power. A neighboring breaker's transceiver receives the Notice of Trip Data signal, encodes it, and then repeats it back via an LED and indicator light tube to the tripped breaker. The trip occurrence has opened a shutter on the tripped breaker which allows it to display the repeated Notice of Trip Data signal as a visible light indication through an indicator window in its top wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2015Date of Patent: October 17, 2017Assignee: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.Inventor: Paul A. Reid
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Patent number: 9772379Abstract: A method and a test device are disclosed for testing a latching magnet of a switch. The switch includes a switching contact; an electronic trip unit to monitor the current flowing and to test whether a current-dependent trip condition is met; an electrical energy store, forming a circuit with the winding of the latching magnet, the circuit being closed by the trip unit when the trip condition is met; an actuator, actuated for a first closing time by closing of the circuit and configured to separate the contact elements; and a first diode, connected in parallel with the winding and via which stored energy of the latching magnet is dissipated. The test device is configured to close the circuit for a second closing time, which is so short that no actuation of the actuator takes place. After the reopening, a test is performed to ascertain whether stored energy is dissipating.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2015Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Andreas Fischer, Stefan Widmann
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Patent number: 9759758Abstract: An apparatus includes an interruption circuit in a power delivery path, and a fault detection circuit configured to provide a fault signal to selectively cause the interruption circuit to interrupt power delivery, wherein the fault detection circuit includes a fault detection integrated circuit and a sensing coil configured to sense a differential current between a phase conductive path and a neutral conductive path in the power delivery path. A processor is configured to selectively control a fault simulation circuit to simulate a fault in the power delivery path, detect a response of the fault detection circuit to the simulated fault, and determine if the response of the fault detection circuit is an expected response. The processor provides an override signal to the interruption circuit to prevent the interruption circuit from receiving a fault signal from the fault detection circuit during, and for a predetermined time after, the simulated fault.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2015Date of Patent: September 12, 2017Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Alek Aronov, Michael Kamor, Renjith Mathew
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Patent number: 9726727Abstract: A method is disclosed for testing a latching magnet of a switch including a switching contact, formed from contact elements mechanically separated from one another for opening the switching contact; an electronic trip unit, to monitor current flowing via the contact elements and to perform a test for a current-dependent trip condition; an electrical energy store, forming a circuit with the winding of the latching magnet, the circuit being closed for a first closing time when the trip condition of the trip unit is met; and an actuator, actuable by closing off the circuit and configured to separate the contact elements. For test purposes, the circuit is closed for a second closing time, which is so short that separation of the contact elements by the actuator does not take place. A test is then performed to ascertain whether there is a current flowing via the winding of the latching magnet.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2015Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Andreas Fischer, Stefan Widmann
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Patent number: 9709626Abstract: A process for self testing a fault circuit includes disabling an actuator, performing a self test by creating a simulated fault signal across at least a portion of a half cycle of a first polarity and across at least a portion of a hall cycle of a second polarity, and determining whether the self test was successful.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2013Date of Patent: July 18, 2017Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Adam Kevelos
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Patent number: 9685293Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided to block and unblock a breaker handle of a circuit breaker having main contacts. The apparatus comprises a locking mechanism including a locking handle shaft and a locking latch. The locking handle shaft is configured to latch the locking mechanism for keeping the breaker handle in a mid-position in which the main contacts stay open. The locking handle shaft has a latching surface configured to be removed from its position in order to rotate the breaker handle to a fully ON position in which the main contacts fully close. The locking latch is configured to prevent rotation of the locking handle shaft. The locking latch is configured to engage and disengage with the locking handle shaft in order to rotate the breaker handle from a reset position to the mid-position in which the locking mechanism locks the breaker handle rotation thus preventing the main contacts from closing.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2016Date of Patent: June 20, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.Inventor: Russell Thomas Watford
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Patent number: 9552446Abstract: A method, apparatus and program product are provided for mapping electrical circuits. A user provides an electronic record of one or more rooms with outlets to be mapped and installs a module in each outlet to be mapped. Using an interactive program, the user prepares a diagram of a circuit box. The user triggers a probe to propagate a signal detectable by said modules over a circuit and to provide circuit information. The user retrieves the circuit information from the modules. Then, the interactive program associates the circuit information from each module with a corresponding outlet on said electronic record of one or more rooms.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: January 24, 2017Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Jeffrey Alan Calcaterra, Steven Michael Miller, Humberto Gutierrez-Rivas
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Patent number: 9547047Abstract: A leakage current detection device coupled to AC power supply wires carrying an AC signal, which includes: a leakage current detection circuit including a leakage current detector, the leakage current detection circuit operating during first half-cycles among positive and negative half-cycles of the AC signal to detect a leakage current of the power supply wires and to disconnect the power supply wires from an output side when a leakage current exceeding a first threshold value is detected; and a self-detecting circuit coupled to the leakage current detection circuit, operating during second half-cycles among the positive and negative half-cycles of the AC signal to test whether the leakage current detection circuit is functioning normally.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventor: Chengli Li
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Patent number: 9531268Abstract: A switching power supply converts an input voltage to a predetermined output voltage by controlling a switching device. The switching power supply includes a controller and a current detector. The controller controls the switching device. The current detector detects electric current flowing through the switching device. The controller starts a forced-OFF action to forcedly turn OFF the switching device when the current detected by the current detector exceeds a predetermined threshold and then ends the forced-OFF action at a start of a predetermined switching period.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2014Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Yuki Mikami, Yoshiyuki Kawase, Ryoichi Shiraishi