Multifunction circuit breaker with single test button
US10126346B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 22, 2013 |
| Grant date | Nov 13, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 10, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2083/201
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Method and system for implementing multiple user-initiated self-test sequences in a multifunction circuit breaker device uses a single test input to initiate both arc fault and ground fault testing while at the same time allowing the multifunction circuit breaker device to continue detecting actual arc faults and ground faults in near real time. Having one test input for multiple self-test sequences significantly reduces the number of mechanical and electrical components required by the circuit breaker device. The multifunction circuit breaker device also distinguishes between a simulated ground fault and an actual ground fault and avoids automatically tripping upon successful completion of the ground fault self-test sequence unless and until all self-test sequences have passed. In this way, users are not given a potentially incorrect indication that the multifunction circuit breaker device is working properly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.