GFCI with overcurrent protection and end-of-life warning and tripping functions
US8462006B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 4, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 11, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 5, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02H3/04
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a GFCI that trips and provides indication at the end of its life. It comprises a leakage signal detection circuit (LSDC) and a failure alarm for providing indication in case of failure. The LSDC includes a leakage signal amplification circuit (LSAC) which amplifies the signal from test and neutral toroidal coils and controls a mechanical tripping mechanism through a silicon control unit and an igniter. The mechanical tripping mechanism is controlled by the LSDC through the silicon control unit by a forcible tripping coil connected thereto. This LSDC is powered by a power unit. Additionally, a failure alarm circuit which triggers and supplies visual indication through an optical display element in the event of failure is connected to the power unit of the LSDC. This alarm circuit also includes a forcible tripping coil to control the mechanical tripping mechanism at the end of the device life.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.