Abstract: An additive block is provided which may be coupled to a circuit breaker comprising two separable contacts and a resettable tripping mechanism controlled by a thermal trip and/or a magnetic trip. It comprises an auxiliary tripping and/or signalling member, a connecting mechanism between the tripping mechanism of the circuit breaker and the auxiliary member and a manual resetting member cooperating with the connecting mechanism for resetting the active part of the mechanism associated with said auxiliary member in its original position after tripping of the circuit breaker. The connecting mechanism has an interlocking piece which may assume two positions corresponding to engagement and disengagement of the circuit breaker and cooperating in its first position with the resetting member for preventing manual actuation thereof.

Abstract: A manually and remotely operated circuit breaker for use in energy management characterized by a manually operable overcenter toggle linkage mechanism for opening and closing a circuit, electromagnetic actuating current limiting means for opening the circuit in response to a short circuit, a bimetal in response to overload currents, and electromagnetic pulse actuated means for opening and closing the circuit in response to a control signal from a remote location when the manually operable means is open.

Abstract: An electric circuit breaker capable of being opened and closed from a remote location. The circuit breaker includes a stationary contact, a movable contact mounted on a carrier and a trip mechanism that trips the circuit breaker, moving the carrier to an open position upon the occurrence of an overcurrent. The remote control assembly opens and closes the circuit breaker independently of the trip mechanism. Upon receiving a signal from a timer switch, a motor operates, rotating a gear spring connected to the motor shaft. An actuator has a tooth positioned between the wire layers of the gear spring. As the gear spring rotates, the tooth moves toward the motor, pivoting the actuator. An operating rod, connected to both the actuator and the carrier, pulls the carrier to open the contacts as the actuator rotates. When the contacts reach the open position, the actuator hits a switch to shut off the motor.

Abstract: A molded case circuit breaker includes a manually resettable undervoltage trip mechanism for initiating a trip operation of the circuit breaker upon an undervoltage condition. The undervoltage trip mechanism includes a solenoid having a fixed electrical coil surrounding a pair of separable movable ferromagnetic plungers. Disposed between and captured by the two plungers is a compression spring for physically separating the two plungers upon the occurrence of an undervoltage condition. Upon such an undervoltage condition, one of the plungers is positioned to engage and rotate a trip lever for initiating a trip operation of the circuit breaker. The other plunger is secured to an elongated manually depressible reset button that extends through the molded case of the circuit breaker. After a trip operation, the reset button can be depressed to reestablish physical engagement between the first and second plungers, enabling the circuit breaker to be reset.

Abstract: An arc-quenching automatic switch which includes an impact-armature tripping device, comprised of an armature core and an armature rod, a set of deionization plates, a thermostatic element, and a secondary circuit-breaking device which switches off said automatic switch in response to an external event. This event can be remotely sensed and registered by a current or voltage signal corresponding to said event whereby said event may be pre-arranged to trigger the open-circuit. This additional circuit-breaking device is comprised of a operating device for a coupling rod which projects into the armature core of the impact-armature tripping device.

Abstract: An improved remotely controllable circuit breaker comprises a manually operable switching mechanism for opening and closing a single set of first and second contacts, a trip mechanism for opening the contacts upon occurrence of predetermined overload current conditions, and a remotely controllable switching mechanism for selectively opening and closing the contacts in response to a control signal remote from the breaker. The manually operable switching mechanism includes a movable contact arm carrying the first contact to be brought into and out of contacting engagement with the second contact by manipulation of a manual handle. The second contact is operatively connected to the remotely controllable switching mechanism to be driven thereby for movement between an operative position where the second contact is engageable with the first contact and an inoperative position where it is prohibited from being engaged with the first contact independently of the position of the first contact.

Abstract: A magnetically operated circuit breaker characterized by a circuit breaker structure including first and second separable contacts operable between open and closed positions, a releasable mechanism movable when released to a tripped position to effect automatic opening of the contacts, the first contact being connected to the releasable mechanism, the second contact being movable between open and closed positions of the first contact, and electromagnetic actuating means for moving the second contact between open and closed position in response to a control signal generated remotely from the circuit breaker.

Abstract: A ground fault accessory for a molded case circuit breaker is provided by converting a shunt trip accessory to automatically trip the breaker when a ground fault occurs. A printed circuit mounted in the housing with the shunt trip eliminates the need for a separate ground fault relay. The ground fault relay and the shunt trip are made available in the same accessory requiring no additional mounting of equipment or external wiring while conserving space which is scarce in load centers and other locations where both ground fault and shunt trip are desired.

Abstract: A resettable contact closing device opens a load circuit connected to a power line protected by a ground fault interrupter circuit, if the neutral conductor is broken. The contacts are closed by a mechanical reset actuator only if a solenoid is energized by a potential proportional to the line-to-neutral voltage to hold the actuator in a contact closing position. If the neutral conductor is broken, the solenoid will not be energized and the contacts, and hence the power line to the load circuit, will be opened.

Abstract: A molded case circuit breaker includes a manually resettable undervoltage trip mechanism for initiating a trip operation of the circuit breaker upon an undervoltage condition. The undervoltage trip mechanism includes a solenoid having a fixed electrical coil surrounding a pair of separable movable ferromagnetic plungers. Disposed between and captured by the two plungers is a compression spring for physically separating the two plungers upon the occurrence of an undervoltage condition. Upon such an undervoltage condition, one of the plungers is positioned to engage and rotate a trip lever for initiating a trip operation of the circuit breaker. The other plunger is secured to an elongated manually depressible reset button that extends through the molded case of the circuit breaker. After a trip operation, the reset button can be depressed to reestablish physical engagement between the first and second plungers, enabling the circuit breaker to be reset.

Abstract: A multiple pole circuit breaker comprises stationary and movable contacts in each pole, with a cross bar extending between the poles and causing concerted movement of the movable contacts. An operating mechanism effects movement of the movable contacts between open and closed positions, and a resettable undervoltage release mechanism cooperates with the operating mechanism to effect movement of the movable contacts. The undervoltage release mechanism operates to move the movable contacts from the closed to open position upon the occurrence of voltage levels less than a predetermined value, with the undervoltage release mechanism being reset by physical contact with the cross bar as the cross bar moves with the movable contacts from the closed to open positions.

Abstract: The switch includes an electromagnet (9) with a moving core (10) which is retracted when voltage is applied. A configuration of three levers (11, 12, 13) which are fixed together in pairs when the switch is cocked. The first lever (11) is integral with the rotary control shaft (3). The second lever (12) pivots on a stationary middle shaft (23) due to the respective actions of the core being released and of an antagonistic spring (15). The third lever (13) pivots on the end shaft (28), is provided with a return spring (16) and holds the control shaft (3) and the first lever (11) in position by being fixed to the other two levers. The third lever which has a middle lock projection (29) for the first lever also has a transversal passage (24) with a notch (27) in which the free end (25) of the second lever (12) can move, said free end itself having a hooked portion (26) which co-operates with the notch (27) in the tripped position and allowing manual or automatic return to the rest position.

Abstract: An adapter assembly is provided for use with circuit breakers having automatic charge and employing undervoltage release accessory. The adapter is inserted between the undervoltage release tripping mechanism and the circuit breaker operating mechanism to prevent the circuit breaker from tripping from a charged position when the circuit breaker contacts are open. The adapter assembly interferes with the undervoltage tripping lever when the circuit breaker contacts are open to prevent the undervoltage release tripping mechanism from tripping the breaker under conditions of undervoltage or power outage, thus providing a true stored energy device regardless of undervoltage conditions.

Abstract: An energy-efficient device for managing residential loads on electrical generating systems is disclosed. The device is suitable for installation in existing circuit breaker load center panels at low labor costs, to be signalled from Load Management System(s), of various types. The device of the present invention causes the circuit breaker to disconnect and reconnect thereby controlling power consumption during peak periods of energy use. Various alternative embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: A multi-functional mounting module for J and K frame breakers utilizes an accessory post for mounting a plurality of breaker accessories for common actuation by means of a resettable tripping mechanism cooperating with the breaker trip assembly. A slidably mounted cam assembly on the module housing provides for tripping the breaker under predetermined conditions as well as resetting and indicating the breaker operational state.

Abstract: A direct acting undervoltage release device utilizes stored spring energy to trip a circuit breaker when the control voltage reduces to a critical level (the "undervoltage"). The device includes a solenoid that senses the undervoltage, and a charging motor that automatically resets the device after a tripping operation (provided the control voltage recovers to its normal level). The direct acting feature is achieved by providing a chargable trip spring and a trip pin in the circuit breaker which directly drives the latch bar of the breaker to trip the breaker.

Abstract: A manually operated two-pole excess-current protective circuit breaker includes a bimetal control for a switching latch serving both contact bridges. In case of an excess current, the circuit breaker is tripped by a switching latch actuated by the bimetal by virtue of its heat-caused deformation. The circuit breaker unit is provided with a plug-in auxiliary tripping unit having a solenoid-actuated plunger extending into the circuit breaker housing. The plunger moves codirectionally with the working end of the bimetal and cooperates with the switching latch of the circuit breaker. The plunger may assume an actuating position and a withdrawn position dependent upon whether the solenoid is in an energized or a de-energized state and the auxiliary tripping unit may serve as a zero-voltage tripper or as an excess-current tripper dependent upon its structural design which determines the relationship of the plunger positions to the states of solenoid energization.

Abstract: In a circuit breaker equipped with a hook releasably holding movable contacts in a hooked open position, the plunger of an undervoltage release solenoid is releasably latched in its seated position to inhibit premature tripping of the breaker latch and thus enable the operating mechanism to be charged. Articulation of the hook leading to release of the contacts from their hooked open position precipitates unlatching of the plunger and discharge of the operating mechanism to preclude breaker closure into an undervoltage condition. Resetting of the plunger is effected under the control of the operating mechanism by a separate spring-power reset arm.

Abstract: Various circuit breaker accessories, such as a shunt trip, an undervoltage release, an auxiliary switch, and a bell alarm, are individually packaged in a standardized molded insulative accessory case for ultimate factory or even field installation in a molded case, automatic power circuit breaker.

Abstract: The contacts of a conventional molded case residential circuit breaker are opened and closed in relay fashion by a remotely controllable operator module. The operator module, utilizing the compliance of the breaker operating mechanism in its ON condition, acts directly on the breaker movable contact arm to effect a separation of the movable contact from the stationary contact sufficient to switch rated current.

Abstract: A manual motor starter having a current responsive automatic trip means is provided with an undervoltage trip device. The latter includes a solenoid having a plunger biased to operate a lever into tripping engagement with the automatic trip means when the solenoid plunger is magnetically released. While the biasing means is strong enough so that the kinetic energy of the plunger when released from its magnetically held-in position is sufficient to trip the starter, the biasing means is not strong enough to prevent resetting of the trip means after restoration of operating voltage.

Abstract: Both undervoltage and shunt trip auxiliary feature modules, adapted to be mounted side-by-side with one or more circuit breaker modules include an electromagnetic trip device having a trip actuator which is biased toward tripping position and is normally latched in a reset position. A lost motion connection interconnects the actuator with a trip member which is in direct driving engagement with the releasable latch for the automatic trip means of the circuit breaker so that when the actuator is released, movement thereof is transmitted through the trip member to the circuit breaker latch for tripping of the latter. Each auxiliary feature module also includes a reset member which acts to automatically reset the actuator after each tripping operation thereof. The reset member is in direct driving engagement with the cradle of the circuit breaker contact operating mechanism so that movement of the cradle towards its tripped position will operate the reset member in a direction to reset the actuator.

Abstract: A manually operable circuit breaker is provided with a spring powered trip-free contact operating mechanism. A fault current responsive thermal-magnetic automatic trip means is included as in an auxiliary means for operation of the circuit breaker from a remote location. Both the auxiliary means and the operating mechanism operate to open and close the same set of contacts.

Abstract: A bipolar protective switch has a two-piece housing. An electromagnet constitutes the actuating device made either in the form of a zero voltage actuator or an excess current actuator. The armature of the electromagnet drops in the event of a voltage failure or is attracted if an excess current appears, thus disconnecting the switch. The switch can be turned back on again only after the voltage returns or normal current returns by the actuating device. A rocker is disposed on the narrow upper surface between the two pieces of the housing as the actuating member. The electromagnet and connecting members are disposed on the underside of the housing, a portion of the electromagnet being located between the two pieces of the housing. A support of an insulating material, is disposed in the housing upon which support connecting members are disposed.

Abstract: Load management apparatus constituting a direct replacement for a conventional molded case circuit breaker consists of half-inch wide switching and management modules connected in series between an electrical load and its energizing source. The switching module is a conventional circuit breaker and the management module includes an electro-magnetic contactor. The latter is operated by an overcenter spring mechanism which in turn is operated by remotely controlled solenoids.

Abstract: Controlled switching apparatus mountable in a conventional residential panelboard includes a conventional molded case circuit breaker module mounted in adjacent side-by-side relation with an operator module. The latter is remotely operated and includes a single remotely operated electrically energized unidirectional actuator which oscillates a rocker connected to the circuit breaker handle for selective movement thereof between its On and Off positions.

Abstract: A circuit breaker accessory assembly, such as a shunt trip solenoid, is affixed to an insulative mounting member which is interchangeably mounted in place of a conventional interphase barrier within the breaker molded case. The trip solenoid plunger is operatively coupled with the breaker common trip bar, while the actuator for a normally closed switch wired in the solenoid energization circuit is positionally mounted for actuation by movement of a breaker contact arm to its open circuit position, thereby opening the switch.

Abstract: Load management apparatus constituting a direct replacement for a conventional molded case circuit breaker consists of half-inch wide switching and management modules connected in series between an electrical load and its energizing source. The switching module is a conventional circuit breaker and the management module includes a normally closed electromagnetic contactor provided with a permanent magnet latch which holds the contactor in open position. Remotely generated signals are utilized to selectively energize the main operating coil which opens the contactor and to selectively energizing the bucking coil which releases the magnetic latch.

Abstract: An electric wiring switch having an electromagnetic open-circuit shunt tripping device with a magnet armature that, when the tripping device is tripped, acts upon a latching shaft to release a latch upon the ocurrence of a fault current in an electrical circuit wherein the switch is connectible, and also having an indicating device lastingly indicating the tripping of the open circuit shunt tripping device, an operating button displaceable between a first position thereof wherein the switch is in an "on" condition and the operating button is spring loaded, and a second position thereof wherein the switch is in an "off" condition and the operating button is released from the spring loading, the operating button being formed with projection means extending therefrom which, in the "on" condition of the switch, are engaged behind corresponding extension means extending from the latching shaft for firmly retaining the operating button in the first position thereof, and which, in the "off" condition of the switch,

Abstract: A circuit breaker including stationary contact means and a movable contact operable between open and closed positions with respect to the stationary contact means. A contact holder engages the movable contact, and means are utilized for effecting movement of the movable contact between the open and closed positions. Indicator means indicate the position of the movable contact with respect to the stationary contact, and may also function to reset an automatic tripping mechanism.

Abstract: An accessory apparatus package for electric circuit breakers includes a pivotal lever for latching a spring powered trip slide in a reset position. Either of two shunt trip solenoids acts on this lever to unlatch the slide, which springs to an actuated position, initiating tripping of the breaker. A UVR solenoid can also act on this lever to unlatch the slide. A powerful reset spring, controlled by the breaker operating mechanism, discharges as the breaker trips to return the slide to its reset position and, in the process, causes the lever and the solenoid plungers to be reset. All parts are operatively mounted by a common support affixed to the breaker.

Abstract: In a circuit breaker undervoltage release device, a spring powered trip slide is held in a latched position by a latch lever while the plunger of a solenoid is magnetically held in a seated position against the bias of a calibrated return spring. In the event of an undervoltage condition, the spring retracts the plunger, causing the latch lever to release the trip slide, which then moves to trip the breaker. Opening movement of the breaker mechanism first actuates a reset lever to load a reset spring and then returns the slide to its latched position. As the latch lever regains latching control of the slide, the reset spring discharges to snap the plunger to its seated position.

Abstract: An automatic circuit restoration device for polyphase lines, comprising a set of normally open circuit breakers connected in series to respective feed lines and controlled in unison by one coil, and an auxiliary movable contact controlled by means responsive to the presence of voltage on one or more of the feed lines so that said movable contact is opened and said circuit breakers are closed through said coil when one of said feed lines is deenergized.

Abstract: Tripping devices, more particularly for circuit-breakers, in which a single model tripping device can be transformed by a simple operation, not requiring any dismantling, to obtain either a shunt or undervoltage type of operation. This result can be obtained by changing the relative position of a catch part of the striker, for example by rotation through 180 degrees in relation to a locking part.

Abstract: An electric switching device has a selector shaft that drives a switching element between a "cut-out" position in which the switch is open and a "cut-in" position in which the switch is closed. In the cut-in position, a set of "movable" electric contacts carried on the switching element each make electrical connection with a corresponding "fixed" contact supported on a housing. A cut-out mechanism automatically opens the switch when the voltage across the switch falls below a predetermined value (an undervoltage condition). The cut-out mechanism includes an electromagnet, wired in series with the switch, which controls the movement of the blocking lever. The blocking lever is movable between a blocking position in which it holds the switching element in its cut-in position, and a release position in which it allows the switching element to move to its cut-out position.

Abstract: An undervoltage trip coil and armature, with a pivotal member biased against and riding on the latch pin of the armature to sense its position. On occurrence of a low voltage condition, a trip lever causes the latch mechanism of the breaker to trip. The pivotal member then interferes with the latch and prevents reset. The undervoltage trip coil is normally energized to normally attract the undervoltage armature. On occurrence of a specified undervoltage condition the armature releases causing the trip lever to trip the latch mechanism and allowing the pivotal member to interfere with the latch of the breaker. During such condition, the breaker cannot be reset until the armature is attracted to the undervoltage coil under proper voltage condition.

Abstract: A multipole circuit breaker including a trip release actuator having a single coil coaxially surrounding a plunger and mounted within a hollow cylindrical actuator support frame. The actuator is mounted in association with a latch mechanism and includes a spring biasing the plunger toward release of the latch mechanism. The coil is responsive to an electronic sensing and control circuit and serves, when energized, to oppose the action of the bias spring and maintain the plunger in a position to prevent release of the latch mechanism during normal conditions. Upon either undervoltage or overcurrent conditions the sensing and control circuit deenergizes the coil, allowing the bias spring to move the plunger into engagement with the latch mechanism, effecting release of the latch mechanism and separation of the circuit breaker contacts.

Abstract: A coil and trip mechanism to interrupt an electrical circuit having a dual counter-balanced armature arrangement, one a clapper type armature and the other a plunger type. The clapper armature is mounted for movement between a latched position and a tripped position. The plunger armature is mounted for sliding reciprocal movement in and out of the center of the coil between an extended latched position and a retracted tripped position. The armatures are oppositely spring biased toward each other, the stronger bias being provided by a coil spring urging the plunger armature toward the clapper thus holding it away from the trip coil in the latched position until the trip coil is energized. When the trip coil is energized, its electromagnetic force draws the plunger inwardly compressing the coil spring thus neutralizing its biasing force towards the clapper.