Residential fault diagnostic tool

Abstract

A residential fault diagnostic tool. The diagnostic device includes electrical connectors, a load, a power source, a switching circuit, sensors, and a processor. The connectors include a first set of terminals and a second set of terminals for connecting to conductors of a branch circuit in an upstream direction and a downstream direction, respectively, at a receptacle location along the circuit. The switching circuit can isolate upstream and downstream portions of the circuit at the receptacle location and selectively connect or disconnect the power source or the load with the upstream or downstream portions. The sensors measure electrical characteristics on the conductors of the circuit to monitor load currents (such as on power lines, neutral lines, and ground lines) of the upstream and downstream circuit portions. The processor controls the switching circuit and obtains diagnostic information from the measurements performed by the sensors corresponding to the monitored load currents on the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to circuit diagnostics, and more specifically to apparatus, systems, and methods for facilitating or performing circuit diagnostics on residential branch circuits in electrical systems. Background Technology

[0002] Advanced residential circuit breakers can detect and interrupt faults on circuits that exceed standard overcurrent faults. Detected additional faults can include various types of arcing faults and ground faults. These circuit breakers can even provide some type of feedback regarding the last type of fault that caused the circuit breaker to interrupt power on the circuit. For some advanced residential circuit breakers, to receive such feedback, the user may need to close the circuit breaker and risk triggering the fault, which can be dangerous. Furthermore, an advanced residential circuit breaker closed at the time of a fault may trip almost immediately, interrupting the feedback process and causing user confusion. Additionally, investigating the location of a fault within the walls after it has occurred on a branch circuit can be a destructive and costly process, especially since branch circuits sometimes consist of more than 100 feet of wiring within the walls. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A diagnostic device is provided for performing diagnostics on a branch circuit of an electrical system, the branch circuit having multiple electrical conductors including a power line, a neutral line, and a ground line. The diagnostic device may include an electrical connector, a load, a power supply, a switching circuit, a sensor, and at least one processor. The electrical connector includes a first set of terminals for upstream connection to the electrical conductors of the branch circuit at an electrical outlet location, and a second set of terminals for downstream connection to the electrical conductors of the branch circuit at an electrical outlet location. The switching circuit is coupled to the first and second sets of terminals of the electrical connector, the load, and the power supply. This switching circuit can isolate the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet location and selectively connect or disconnect the power supply or load from the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet location via the electrical connector. The sensor can measure the electrical characteristics of the electrical conductors on the branch circuit to monitor currents on the power line, neutral line, and ground line. At least one processor can then be configured to: control the switching circuit to selectively connect the power supply or load to the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet location; and obtain diagnostic information corresponding to the monitored currents on the power line, neutral line, and ground line based on the measurements performed by the sensor.

[0004] In various embodiments, the load is a variable load, and the processor is further configured to set the variable load to a different load level than other loads connected on the branch circuit. The power supply is a variable power supply, and the processor is further configured to control the amount of power supplied by the variable power supply to the isolated portion of the branch circuit located upstream or downstream of the electrical outlet location.

[0005] In various embodiments, the switching circuit is operable in a first switching configuration and a second switching configuration, wherein the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit are isolated from each other at the electrical outlet location. The first switching configuration connects the power supply to the upstream portion and the load to the downstream portion, and the second switching configuration connects the power supply to the downstream portion and the load to the upstream portion. Furthermore, the power level of the power supply can be controllable to output a voltage from a selectable level between a first voltage level capable of inducing an arc fault and a second voltage level not capable of inducing an arc fault. The voltage level supplied by the power supply and / or the load level connectable to the branch circuit can be selectively controllable to limit the current on the branch circuit to a current level capable of preventing or reducing potentially dangerous arc faults from reaching a dangerous level.

[0006] According to a further embodiment, the diagnostic system may include: a circuit breaker disposed at the beginning of a branch circuit, the circuit breaker including a load selectively connected to the branch circuit; and a plurality of the aforementioned diagnostic devices, each of the plurality of diagnostic devices being configured to connect to an electrical conductor of the branch circuit at different electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit, the switching circuits of the plurality of diagnostic devices being operable to provide different combinations of power and load connections along the branch circuit to isolate and monitor load current on different portions of the branch circuit, the different portions of the branch circuit including portions between electrical outlet locations with the diagnostic devices connected thereto. The type and location of a fault on the branch circuit are determined based on the monitored load current, or a mapping of electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit is determined based on the monitored load current.

[0007] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of diagnostic devices and the circuit breaker includes a communication device. The system may further include: a computer device, including a processor, memory, and a communication device, configured to: remotely control the operation of the circuit breaker and the plurality of diagnostic devices for selectively isolating different portions of a branch circuit and monitoring load current on the isolated portions of the branch circuit; receive diagnostic information from the circuit breaker and the plurality of diagnostic devices via the communication device of the computer device, the received diagnostic information including information corresponding to the monitored load current on different portions of the branch circuit; and determine, based on the received diagnostic information, the type and location of a fault on the branch circuit, or determine, based on the received diagnostic information, a mapping of electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit.

[0008] In various system embodiments, the computer device may also be configured to report to the user the type and location of a fault or a mapping of electrical outlet locations. The computer device may be configured to control diagnostic devices and circuit breakers to obtain diagnostic information used to analyze one or more types of faults defined by the user via a user input device or by the types of faults protected by the circuit breaker. The system may also include a grounding circuit breaker to selectively disconnect a ground upstream of multiple electrical outlet locations. The grounding circuit breaker is operable to disconnect a ground fault when monitoring load current to detect a ground fault and to distinguish between parallel faults between live wire and neutral wires and parallel faults between live wire and ground wires along a portion of the branch circuit between the circuit breaker and the nearest electrical outlet location, where the nearest electrical outlet location has diagnostic devices connected to it.

[0009] According to a further embodiment, a method is provided for performing diagnostics on a branch circuit having multiple electrical outlet locations in an electrical system. The branch circuit has multiple electrical conductors including a power line, a neutral line, and a ground line. The method involves connecting multiple diagnostic devices to upstream and downstream electrical conductors of the branch circuit at different electrical outlet locations. Each diagnostic device includes: a load, a power supply, a sensor for measuring electrical characteristics on the branch circuit to monitor currents in the power line, neutral line, and ground line, and a switching circuit for isolating the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet and for selectively connecting or disconnecting the power supply or load from the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet location via an electrical connector. The method also involves controlling the switching circuit of each of the multiple diagnostic devices to provide different combinations of power supply and load connections along the branch circuit to isolate and monitor load currents on different portions of the branch circuit, including portions between electrical outlet locations with diagnostic devices connected thereto; and determining the type and location of a fault on the branch circuit based on the monitored load current, or determining a mapping of electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit based on the monitored load current.

[0010] In various embodiments, the diagnostic operation may be performed under the control of a computer device, and the determination operation is performed by the computer device based on diagnostic information corresponding to monitored loads received from a plurality of diagnostic devices. The load of at least one of the circuit breakers or diagnostic devices may be a variable load, and the method may also involve setting the variable load to a different load level than other loads connected on the branch circuit. The power supply of one of the diagnostic devices may be a variable power supply, and the method may also involve controlling the power level supplied by the variable power supply to an upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit from an electrical outlet location connected to one of the diagnostic devices.

[0011] The method may also involve controlling the power level of a power supply to one or more diagnostic devices to output a voltage from a selectable level, either a first voltage level capable of inducing an arc fault or a second voltage level not capable of inducing an arc fault. The method may also involve selectively controlling the voltage level supplied by the power supply and / or the load level on a branch circuit to limit the current on the branch circuit to a current level capable of preventing or reducing a potentially dangerous arc fault from reaching a dangerous level. Attached Figure Description

[0012] A more detailed description of the present disclosure, which has been briefly summarized above, can be obtained by referring to various embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the drawings illustrate selected embodiments of the present disclosure, they should not be considered as limiting its scope, as the present disclosure may allow for other equally effective embodiments.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a diagnostic system for diagnosing the state of a circuit (such as a branch circuit) according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 An example is shown. Figure 1 A diagram of example components of a system diagnostic device.

[0015] Figure 3 An example is shown. Figure 1 A circuit diagram of an example component of the system's circuit breaker.

[0016] Figure 4 An example is shown. Figure 1 A circuit diagram of an example component of a system diagnostic device.

[0017] Figure 5 The connection on the branch circuit according to the embodiment is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Circuit diagram of circuit breakers and (multiple) diagnostic devices.

[0018] Figure 6 The diagram shows connections (such as those on a branch circuit according to an embodiment) on a branch circuit. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Example circuit of a circuit breaker and three diagnostic devices.

[0019] Figure 7 An example is shown. Figure 6 The example circuit shows that the switch of one of the three diagnostic devices has a reverse branch connection.

[0020] Figure 8 An example is shown. Figure 7An example circuit is provided, in which a series fault is detected between a first diagnostic device and a second diagnostic device connected along a branch circuit.

[0021] Figure 9 An example is shown. Figure 7 An example circuit is provided, in which a ground fault is detected between a first diagnostic device and a second diagnostic device connected along a branch circuit.

[0022] Figure 10 An example is shown. Figure 7 An example circuit is provided, in which a parallel fault between the live wire and the neutral wire is detected between a first diagnostic device and a second diagnostic device connected along a branch circuit.

[0023] Figure 11 An example is shown. Figure 7 An example circuit is provided, in which a parallel fault between a live wire and a ground wire is detected between a first diagnostic device and a second diagnostic device connected along a branch circuit.

[0024] Figure 12 and Figure 13 An example method for monitoring, analyzing, and diagnosing conditions on a circuit (e.g., a branch circuit) according to an embodiment is illustrated.

[0025] Figure 14 An example method for monitoring, analyzing, and diagnosing conditions on a circuit (e.g., a branch circuit) according to an embodiment is illustrated.

[0026] Figure 15 Example components of a computer or computing system according to an embodiment are illustrated.

[0027] This idea offers the benefit of identifying the type and location of a fault without having to close the circuit breaker or expose unnecessary parts of a branch circuit.

[0028] Where possible, the same reference numerals have been used to denote common elements in the figures. However, elements disclosed in one embodiment may be advantageously used in other embodiments without specific description. Detailed Implementation

[0029] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for diagnosing the condition of circuits, such as branch circuits of electrical systems in residential buildings. The system and method may employ multiple diagnostic devices (also referred to as "diagnostic boxes") that can be mounted / connected to wiring of the branch circuit at different electrical outlet or receptacle locations (also referred to as "outlet locations") along the circuit to perform circuit diagnostics. Each diagnostic device may include: (multiple) processors; communication devices; a power supply; distinct or unique loads; electrical connectors having a first set of terminals and a second set of terminals for connection to the circuit in upstream and downstream directions, respectively, at the electrical outlet location; (multiple) sensors; and switching circuitry for isolating upstream or downstream portions of the branch circuit from the outlet location and selectively connecting or disconnecting components of the diagnostic devices from the upstream or downstream portions of the branch circuit, respectively. Sensors may include (multiple) current sensors, (multiple) voltage sensors, or combinations thereof, which can measure electrical characteristics on conductors of the branch circuit or portions thereof to monitor load current on the branch circuit or portions thereof. When the power supply and load are connected to the monitored section of the circuit, the load current can include the current on various electrical conductors (or wiring) of the branch circuit, such as the current on the power line or live wire (L), neutral wire (N), and ground wire (or grounding wire (G)).

[0030] In various embodiments, the diagnostic device is configured to connect power to the circuit from the electrical outlet location in one of an upstream or downstream direction, and simultaneously connect a load to the circuit from the electrical outlet location in the other of an upstream or downstream direction. The diagnostic device is also configured to reverse the connections of the power supply and load to the branch circuit section via a switching circuit.

[0031] The circuit breaker at the branch origin can also be a smart circuit breaker, which may include components and features of diagnostic devices, as well as tripping units for interrupting, connecting, or disconnecting power to the branch circuit and other circuit breaker components and features. For example, the circuit breaker may also include processors(s), communication devices, switching circuits, sensors(s), and unique or distinct loads. When the circuit breaker is in the off or tripped state (or position), the load can be selectively connected to or disconnected from the branch circuit. The circuit breaker may also include an isolating power supply. The circuit breaker can communicate wirelessly or wiredly with other remote devices via communication devices through networks such as star, mesh, or other networks.

[0032] In an example diagnostic operation, multiple diagnostic devices can be installed / connected to the branch circuit at different electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit to be monitored. For example, diagnostic devices can be connected to upstream and downstream wiring at each electrical outlet location along the branch circuit, unless the outlet location is at the end of the branch circuit, in which case there is no downstream connection. When the branch circuit is de-energized (e.g., circuit breaker off or tripped), the diagnostic devices can be selectively operated to achieve different power supply and load connection scenarios for isolating different sections along the branch circuit and for monitoring (e.g., measuring, sensing, calculating, or deriving) the load current on the isolated sections to collect corresponding diagnostic information. Isolation sections can, for example, include those between outlet locations with connected diagnostic devices and those between the circuit breaker and the outlet location closest to the circuit breaker (with connected diagnostic devices). The collected diagnostic information can be used to map electrical outlet / socket locations along the branch circuit, to identify the type and location of faults in the circuit, and / or for diagnosing other conditions on the circuit. Different power supply and / or load connection scenarios for diagnosing equipment and circuit breakers can be implemented based on the desired diagnostics to be performed (e.g., receptacle mapping, fault type and location identification, series fault detection, ground fault detection, parallel fault detection). For example, a low-voltage power supply can be used when performing diagnostics such as receptacle mapping, as well as series fault detection and ground fault detection; a high (or higher) voltage power supply can be used when performing diagnostics such as parallel fault detection, which includes detection of parallel line-pair neutral points and line-pair ground faults.

[0033] Intelligent devices (such as computer devices that operate circuit diagnostic application software) can be used to remotely control and coordinate the operation of diagnostic devices and circuit breakers, and to perform various circuit diagnostic analyses, including socket mapping and / or identification of the type and location of multiple faults on the circuit, using diagnostic information collected from diagnostic devices (and, if necessary, other devices) connected to branch circuits. Intelligent devices can be user-operable computer devices.

[0034] In various embodiments, each load of the diagnostic device and circuit breaker can be a variable load, which can be selectively set to different load levels (e.g., level, quantity, value, etc.) to distinguish the devices from each other. Diagnostic devices and other devices on branch circuits can have unique identifiers for easy identification. Each diagnostic device can also include a variable power supply that can supply power at a desired current or voltage level depending on the environment or circumstances. For example, the supply current or voltage from the power supply can be limited to or below a current or voltage level that will not trigger an arcing fault, such as when mapping or identifying the socket sequence on a branch circuit. In the event that the circuit breaker trips due to some fault, the diagnostic device can also be operated to supply power at a safe, increased current or voltage level that can safely trigger the fault while the circuit is being diagnosed to determine the type and location of the fault on the circuit. The diagnostic process can also be configured to perform a search for specific types of faults based on user input, the fault protection capability of the circuit breaker, faults detected by the circuit breaker that cause power interruption in the branch circuit, or other circumstances or factors.

[0035] The circuit diagnostic system and method disclosed herein can be implemented without accessing the load panel (or its circuit breaker(s)) or unnecessarily exposing portions of the branch circuit (e.g., by tearing or damaging a wall to access the circuit wiring). Furthermore, in the event of a branch circuit breaker tripping, the diagnostic equipment can be used to monitor or test the condition of the branch circuit and its electrical wiring to determine the type and location of the fault on the branch circuit, without having to close (or open) the circuit breaker in the tripped or off state.

[0036] These and other exemplary features of this disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 An example diagnostic system 100 is illustrated for diagnosing the condition of a circuit, such as a branch circuit 10 having multiple electrical outlet locations 12 along the circuit. The diagnostic system 100 includes a circuit breaker 110, multiple diagnostic devices 120, and intelligent devices 130 such as computer devices, which can communicate with each other through networks such as star, mesh, or other networks.

[0038] Each diagnostic device 120 may be a portable unit that can be connected to branch circuit wiring (e.g., L, N, and G lines). Diagnostic device 120 can be connected to upstream and downstream branch circuit wiring at electrical outlet position 12. As will be described in further detail below, the diagnostic device may include electrical connectors, loads, power supplies, switching circuits, processors(s), and communication devices. Diagnostic device 120 can be operated to isolate upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at electrical outlet position 12 and selectively connect a power supply or load to the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit 10. Diagnostic device 120 can also obtain diagnostic information corresponding to monitored currents on the power line, neutral line, and / or ground line based on sensor measurements of the electrical characteristics on the conductors of the isolated portion. When diagnostics are performed on branch circuit 10, the loads of each of circuit breaker 110 and diagnostic device 120 can be configured to have different load levels to distinguish and identify them from each other.

[0039] Circuit breaker 110 may be located at the beginning of branch circuit 10 and may reside in a load center or panel board including multiple circuit breakers connected to protect different branch circuits. Circuit breaker 110 can be operated to connect or disconnect power to the branch circuit. Circuit breaker 110 may also include a trip unit configured to trip and interrupt power to branch circuit 10 in the event of a triggering event or condition, such as a fault (e.g., arc fault, ground fault, overload, etc.). Circuit breaker 110, which may function as a smart circuit breaker, may also include a load (such as a variable load selectively connected to the branch circuit), multiple sensors for sensing conditions on the branch circuit, switching circuits for selectively connecting (or disconnecting) components of circuit breaker 110 to each other or selectively connecting (or disconnecting) components of circuit breaker 110 to (or disconnecting) the branch circuit, multiple processors for controlling the components and operation of circuit breaker 110, and communication devices for communicating with multiple remote devices. Sensors may include arc fault sensors, ground fault sensors, sensors for monitoring current in branch circuit lines (e.g., lines, conductors, wiring, etc.) such as power or live (L) lines, neutral (N) lines, and ground (G) lines (or grounding), and other types of sensors for sensing conditions on branch circuits. In various embodiments, circuit breaker 110 may include an isolating power supply. Circuit breaker 110 may also be configured to perform functions and operations such as those described herein with respect to diagnostic device 120. In various embodiments, in non-protected diagnostic mode, circuit breaker 110 may be powered by a power supply on the load-side lug (e.g., from diagnostic device 120).

[0040] The intelligent device 130 may include processors, memory, input / output devices, and communication devices. The intelligent device may be a computer device (or system), such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or other computer device operable by a user (e.g., a technician). The intelligent device 130 may be configured to implement the circuit diagnostic processes or methods described herein. For example, the intelligent device 130 may be configured to: remotely control and coordinate the operation of the circuit breaker 110 and multiple diagnostic devices 120 to monitor load current on branch circuit 10 (or portions thereof) under different power supply and load connection scenarios; receive diagnostic information from the circuit breaker 110 and multiple diagnostic devices 120, wherein the received diagnostic information may include information corresponding to the monitored load current on the branch circuit (or portions thereof); and determine, based on the received diagnostic information, a mapping along the socket location 12 of the branch circuit 10, determine the type and location of a fault on the branch circuit, or determine other conditions on the circuit. Diagnostic information may correspond to monitored currents (e.g., currents on the L, N, and G lines) on branch circuit 10 or its portions, such as current quantities sensed or measured by sensors or calculated or derived from sensor measurements. Sensors may reside in the diagnostic device and, if desired, in the circuit breaker. The smart device 130 may perform wireless or wired communication with the circuit breakers(s) 110, diagnostic device 120, or other devices via a network such as a star or mesh network or other communication network.

[0041] Depending on the type of circuit diagnostics to be performed (e.g., socket mapping, fault detection, etc.), smart device 130 can control components of diagnostic device 120 and circuit breaker 110 to implement different power supply and load connection scenarios at different / varying voltage / current levels, in order to collect sufficient diagnostic information for different parts of branch circuit 10 to perform circuit diagnostics. For example, smart device 130 can cause diagnostic device 120 to use a low-voltage power supply when performing diagnostics for socket mapping and series and ground fault detection, and to use a high (or higher) voltage power supply when performing diagnostics for parallel fault detection.

[0042] The intelligent device 130 can also be configured to receive settings and parameters from a user for implementing circuit diagnostic procedures or methods. Among other things, the settings and parameters may include assigning different (or unique) identifiers to each installed diagnostic device 120 and(multiple) circuit breaker 110, assigning different load levels to each load of the installed diagnostic device 120 and(multiple) circuit breaker 110, selecting the type of fault(s) to search for or identify (e.g., ground fault, arc fault, parallel arc fault, series arc fault, or other known types of electrical faults), and assigning(s) voltage or current levels to be supplied with power by each installed diagnostic device 120 for specific operations (such as when performing socket mapping, fault detection, fault location detection, etc.). The intelligent device 130 may also receive other settings / parameters, such as the identity of the socket location (if already known), the socket location at the end of the branch circuit 10 that can be identified during the installation of the diagnostic device 120 to the socket location 12, or other information that can aid in circuit diagnostics. The smart device 130 may provide a user interface (e.g., a graphical user interface (GUI)) for enabling the user to input or select settings and parameters, for selecting diagnostic devices to be controlled and coordinated, for outputting information to the user (e.g., reports, alarms, types and locations of detected faults, socket mappings, load values, voltage / current values, etc.), and for performing other interactions between the user and the smart device 130, as well as between the circuit breaker 110 and the diagnostic device 120.

[0043] Figure 2 The illustration shows an example component of diagnostic device 220, which may be... Figure 1 An example of a diagnostic device 120. For example... Figure 2 As shown, diagnostic device 220 may include an electrical connector 250, a power supply 252, a load 254, multiple sensors 256, a switching circuit 258, a signal conditioning circuit 260, multiple processors 262, a memory 264, and multiple communication devices 266. Diagnostic device 220 may also include protection circuitry to handle situations where two power supplies for two diagnostic devices are connected together or if a circuit breaker closes, energizing a branch connection.

[0044] Electrical connector 250 may include a plurality of terminals or leads (generally referred to as “terminals”) Ts for connection to branch circuit wiring, such as at a receptacle location. The plurality of terminals Ts may include a first set of terminals for connection to the portion (or section) of the branch circuit located upstream of the receptacle location, and a second set of terminals for connection to the portion of the branch circuit located downstream of the receptacle location. The terminals Ts of electrical connector 250 may take the form of leads or various wire fasteners or connectors (e.g., clamps, clips, etc.) for detachable connection to branch circuit wiring (e.g., L-wire, N-wire, G-wire, and other conductors), and may include suitable electrical insulators / insulators to electrically separate and isolate different lines connected to electrical connector 250 and prevent conductor exposure when terminals Ts are connected to circuit wiring.

[0045] Power source 252 may be a variable power source. Power source 252 may be used to supply power (e.g., voltage / current) to a branch circuit or its desired upstream or downstream portion, or to provide feedback to circuit breakers (e.g., 110) and potentially hazardous faults. Power source 252 may include a battery, isolated AC or DC power supply, or other power source independent of the branch circuit's main power supply. Power source 252 may provide touch-safe voltage levels (e.g., 12 V, 24 V, or <40 V, etc.). In various embodiments, power source 252 may output voltages at different voltage levels that may or may not induce arcing faults. Current limiting of the supplied power may also be applied by adjusting the voltage and / or load levels on the circuit or section to be monitored to prevent potentially hazardous arcing faults from reaching hazardous levels. Load 254 may include a variable load or multiple selectable loads with different load levels.

[0046] Multiple sensors 256 can sense and measure electrical characteristics (e.g., voltage, current, etc.) on conductors of a branch circuit or its portions or electrical components connected thereto, for monitoring currents on the branch circuit, such as load currents when loads are connected to the branch circuit or its portions. Load currents can be sensed or measured by the multiple sensors, or calculated or derived from sensor measurements obtained from the multiple sensors 256. The multiple sensors 256 may include multiple current sensors, multiple voltage sensors, or other types of sensors that can sense electrical characteristics on conductors of the branch circuit or its portions for sensing, measuring, calculating, or deriving currents on the monitored circuit or circuit portions. As previously described, the monitored currents may include currents on conductors of the L, N, and G lines of the monitored circuit. Signal conditioning circuitry 260 can condition the output signal from sensor 256 and may include, for example, multiple amplifiers, multiple filters, and other signal conditioning components.

[0047] Switching circuit 258 can be connected to components of a diagnostic device, including electrical connector 250, power supply 252, load 254, and sensors(s)256. Switching circuit 258 may include multiple switches for electrically isolating portions of the branch circuit located upstream and downstream of the electrical receptacle position. Switching circuit 258 can also be operated to selectively connect or disconnect components of the diagnostic device 220 from each other, respectively. For example, switching circuit 258 is operable to selectively connect or disconnect power supply 252 or load 254 to the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit located at the receptacle position, respectively. Switching circuit 258 can reverse the branch circuit connections to connect the power supply to the upstream portion and the load to the downstream portion, or vice versa.

[0048] In various embodiments, the switching circuit can also be configured to electrically connect the upstream and downstream portions of a branch circuit at the receptacle location. With this additional switching mode, the diagnostic device 220 can perform a pre-diagnostic process to identify the branch direction connection of each set of terminals of the electrical connector 250. For example, each diagnostic device 220 can isolate its upstream and downstream portions, connect the power supply 252 to one isolated portion and monitor the load current, then connect the power supply 252 to another isolated portion and monitor the load current, while the associated upstream and downstream portions of other diagnostic devices 220 are electrically connected and the load of the circuit breaker is connected to the branch circuit. In this way, each diagnostic device 220 can identify a set of terminals Ts connected to the upstream circuit breaker based on the monitored load. This additional switching mode can also provide additional power supply and load connection scenarios for monitoring conditions on the circuit. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the diagnostic device 220 may also include the functionality of an electrical receptacle.

[0049] Multiple processors 262 are configured to control and coordinate the operation of diagnostic device 220 and its components. These operations may include, but are not limited to: controlling the connection of components of diagnostic device 220 to each other and / or to upstream or downstream portions of a branch circuit located at a socket position via switching circuit 258; controlling the connection or disconnection between the upstream and downstream portions respectively; controlling the power level, such as voltage or current level, supplied via power supply 252; controlling the level of loads to be connected to the branch circuit via load 254; controlling communication of information or other data (including diagnostic information) to multiple remote devices via communication device 266; and / or performing other operations including the control and diagnostic operations described herein. Multiple communication devices 266 may be configured to perform wireless or wired communication with one or more remote devices.

[0050] Memory 264 may store computer-executable code, programs, software, or instructions that, when executed by a processor(s), control the operation of diagnostic device 220, including the various methods / procedures described herein. Memory 264 may also store other data by diagnostic device 220 or its components to perform the operations described herein.

[0051] Figure 3 A circuit diagram of an example component of a circuit breaker 310 (such as a smart circuit breaker) connected to branch circuit 10 according to an embodiment is shown. Circuit breaker 310 may be... Figure 1 Example of circuit breaker 110. For example... Figure 3 As shown, circuit breaker 310 may include trip / switch unit 312, a load (R load), sensors including arc fault sensor 320 and ground fault sensor 330, and other electronic equipment 340. Arc fault sensor 320 is configured to detect arc faults on branch circuit 10, and ground fault sensor 330 is configured to detect ground faults on branch circuit 10. Trip / switch unit 312 is configured to interrupt power to branch circuit 10 (e.g., from an AC power source) when a fault or other hazardous condition is detected, or is configured to enable or disable power from mains / upstream power to the branch circuit. The load (R load) may be selectively connected to or disconnected from branch circuit 10 via switch SW, such as when branch circuit 10 is isolated from mains or upstream power circuits (e.g., when the circuit breaker is turned off or tripped). Electronic equipment 340 may include processor(s) for controlling the operation of circuit breaker 310 and its components, memory, and communication equipment for performing wireless or wired communication with one or more remote devices via a network.

[0052] Figure 4 A circuit diagram of an example component of a diagnostic device 420 is shown. This example component may be... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Examples of diagnostic devices 120 or 220. In Figure 4 In the example, diagnostic device 220 may include electrical connectors, power supplies, loads (R loads), sensors (multiple) of sensors, switching circuits, and electronic device 440. Electronic device 440 may include processors (multiple) of processors, memory, and communication devices (multiple) of communication devices.

[0053] Electrical connectors may include multiple terminals Ts for connecting to branch circuit wiring (such as at an electrical receptacle location). The multiple terminals may include a first set of terminals for connecting to the portion of the branch circuit upstream of the receptacle location, and a second set of terminals for connecting to the portion of the branch circuit downstream of the receptacle location. The terminals Ts of the electrical connector may take the form of leads or various wire fasteners or connectors (e.g., clamps, clips, etc.) for connecting branch circuit wiring (e.g., L-wire, N-wire, G-wire, and other lines), and may include suitable electrical insulators / insulators to electrically separate or isolate the different lines connected to the electrical connector and prevent conductor exposure when the terminals are connected to the circuit wiring.

[0054] The power source can be a fixed or variable source. It can be used to supply power (e.g., voltage / current) to a branch circuit or its desired upstream or downstream portion, or to provide feedback to circuit breakers (e.g., I10) and potentially hazardous faults. In this example, the power source can be a variable DC or AC source and can be configured to provide a touch-safe voltage level.

[0055] The load (R load) may include a variable load or multiple selectable loads, each with a different load level (referred to herein as "variable load").

[0056] Multiple sensors can sense and measure electrical characteristics (e.g., voltage, current, etc.) on conductors of a branch circuit (or its components) or connected thereto for monitoring currents on the branch circuit, such as load currents when loads are connected to the branch circuit. Load currents can be sensed or measured by the multiple sensors, or calculated or derived from sensor measurements obtained by the multiple sensors. As previously described, currents can include currents on the L, N, and G lines of the branch circuit. In this example, the multiple sensors include a neutral current sensor for monitoring current on the neutral (N) line and a ground current sensor for monitoring current on the ground (G) line. Currents on the power lines (L) can be derived from the neutral current and the ground current, which, under normal conditions, should add up to equal the current on the power lines. Currents on the power lines (L) can also be monitored by measuring currents on loads (e.g., R loads) in the circuit or using power line sensors.

[0057] A switching circuit is connected to components of diagnostic device 420, which may include electrical connectors, a DC power supply, a load (R load), and neutral and ground current sensors. In this example, the switching circuit includes multiple switches SW for selectively isolating upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at the receptacle location and selectively connecting or disconnecting components of diagnostic device 420 from each other, respectively. For example, the switches SW of the switching circuit are operable to isolate upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at the receptacle location and connect or disconnect the DC power supply or load (R load) to or from the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the connected receptacle location, respectively. In this example, the switches SW of the switching circuit can be operated to connect the DC power supply to one of the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at the receptacle location and simultaneously connect the load (R load) to the other of the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at the receptacle location. The switching circuit can be operated to reverse the branch circuit connections.

[0058] The processor(s) of electronic device 440 are configured to control the operation of diagnostic device 420 and its components. These operations may include, but are not limited to: controlling the connection of components of diagnostic device 420 to each other and / or to the upstream or downstream portion of branch circuit 10 located at the socket position via a switch SW of a switching circuit; controlling the switch SW to isolate the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit from each other; controlling the supplied power level via a DC power supply; controlling the load level connected to the branch circuit via a load (R load); controlling communication of control information or other data (including diagnostic information) to the remote device(s) via a communication device; or performing other operations including the control operations described herein. The communication device(s) of electronic device 440 are configured to perform wireless or wired communication with one or more remote devices via a network.

[0059] The memory of electronic device 440 may store computer-executable code, programs, software, or instructions that, when executed by processor(s), control the operation of diagnostic device 420, including the various methods / procedures described herein. The memory may also store other data used by diagnostic device 420 or its components to perform the operations described herein.

[0060] Figure 5 The connection along branch circuit 10 at the socket location is shown. Figure 3 Circuit breaker 310 and Figure 4 A circuit diagram of a diagnostic device 420. (Example) Figure 5 As shown, the terminals Ts of the diagnostic device 420 are connected to branch wiring, such as L line, N line and G line, in the upstream direction. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Another circuit example is shown, in which Figure 3Circuit breaker 310 and three diagnostic devices 420 (e.g., device #1, device #2, and device #3) are connected to branch circuit 10 at different socket locations. In this example, the three diagnostic devices 420 are connected along the branch circuit at different socket locations in the following order: device #2 (closest to the circuit breaker), device #1, and finally device #3. Figure 6 In the operation of the diagnostic device "Device #2", the switch SW of the switching circuit is switched such that the DC power supply is connected upstream of the branch circuit located at the socket position, and the load is connected downstream of the branch circuit located at the socket position. Figure 7 In this process, the switching circuit of the diagnostic device "Device #1" is operated in reverse branch connection, so that the DC power supply is connected to the downstream section and the load is connected to the upstream section.

[0061] The following will refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The circuit configuration is described to illustrate various example diagnostic operations, where circuit breaker 310 and three diagnostic devices 420 (e.g., device #1, device #2, and device #3) are connected to receptacle locations along branch circuit 10. For illustrative purposes, in this example, when a known voltage (e.g., low or high voltage) is supplied individually by a DC power source to each known load of circuit breaker 310 and the three diagnostic devices 420 that can be connected to branch circuit 10, the currents generated across the loads under normal circuit conditions are as follows: Rload(circuit breaker) / 2 mA, Rload(device #1) / 5 mA, Rload(device #2) / 10 mA, and Rload(device #3) / 15 mA. In this way, when sufficient diagnostic information about the load currents on different parts of the branch circuit is monitored and collected through the operation of the diagnostic devices 420, the locations of the diagnostic devices and their associated receptacle locations (as well as other information about the condition of the circuit) can be identified.

[0062] Table 1 below describes an example diagnostic procedure implementation for mapping socket / socket locations.

[0063]

[0064] As shown in Table 1 above, when using Figure 6 In the first round of circuit configuration, device #1 detected a load current of 0 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, device #2 detected a load current of 2 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, and device #3 detected a load current of 0 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section. Based on this information, it can be concluded that device #2 is in the first (1) round. stThe socket location (or the socket location closest to the circuit breaker with the installed diagnostic equipment) is determined because the current monitored by device #2 matches the current of circuit breaker 310. The diagnostic information collected by devices #1 and #3 is uncertain.

[0065] In round 2, the power supply and load connections were changed to Figure 7 The circuit configuration in this example is shown. In this example, the branch connection of device #1 is reversed. Device #1 now detects a load current of 10 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, device #2 detects a load current of 2 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, and device #3 detects a load current of 5 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section. Based on this additional diagnostic information (along with the previous conclusion that device #1 is located in the first socket position), it is further concluded that device #1 is downstream of device #2 because the current monitored by device #1 matches the current of device #1, and device #3 is the end socket position and downstream of device #1 because the current monitored by device #3 matches the current of device #1. The positions of device #3 and the last socket position may also be known in advance during the installation of device #3 to the end / terminal wiring of the branch circuit. Therefore, based on the collected diagnostic information of the monitored load currents on different parts of the branch circuit, the socket positions mapped from the circuit breaker are device #2, device #1, and finally device #3.

[0066] Figure 8 An example is shown. Figure 7 The example circuit illustrates a series fault detected between diagnostic devices 420 (e.g., devices #1 and #2). An example diagnostic procedure for detecting series faults in a circuit is described in Table 2 provided below.

[0067]

[0068] As shown in Table 2 above, when using Figure 6 In the first round of circuit configuration, device #1 detected a load current of 0 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, device #2 detected a load current of 2 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, and device #3 detected a load current of 0 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section. Based on this information, it can be concluded that device #2 is in the first (1) round. st The socket location (or the socket location closest to circuit breaker 310 with the installed diagnostic equipment) is determined because the current monitored by device #2 matches the current of circuit breaker 310. The diagnostic information collected by devices #1 and #3 is uncertain.

[0069] In round 2, the power supply and load connections were changed to Figure 7and Figure 8 The circuit configuration is shown in the example. In this example, the branch connection of device #1 is reversed. Device #1 detects a load current of 0 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, device #2 detects a load current of 2 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section, and device #3 detects a load current of 5 mA on the power line (L) of the monitored circuit section. Based on this additional diagnostic information (along with the previous conclusion that device #1 is located in the first socket position and the knowledge that device #3 is in the end socket position), it can be further concluded that device #3 is downstream of device #1 because the current monitored by device #3 matches the current of device #1, and therefore device #1 is downstream of device #2. When the diagnostic device is installed in the end socket position (e.g., in a terminal branch connection), the end socket position can be provided by the user. Therefore, based on the collected diagnostic information of the monitored load currents on different parts of the branch circuit, the socket positions mapped from the circuit breaker are device #2, device #1, and finally device #3. Furthermore, it can be further concluded that, as Figure 8 As shown, there is a series fault between device #1 and device #2 because the monitored current in the circuit section between these two devices is unknown in both directions (e.g., 0 mA).

[0070] Figure 9 An example is shown. Figure 7 The example circuit illustrates a ground fault detected between diagnostic devices 420 (e.g., devices #1 and #2). The diagnostic process for detecting the presence and location of potential ground faults may require the circuit mapping process previously described herein, followed by an assessment of the load current of the ground (or grounded) wires of different circuit sections of the branch circuit. Refer to Table 3 provided below for a description of the detection... Figure 7 and Figure 9 An example of how to diagnose grounding faults in circuit configurations.

[0071]

[0072] Table 3 describes an example ground fault (GF) detection analysis performed after the circuit mapping process. As shown in Table 3 above, the monitored load current of L on device #1 is 10 mA, the load current of N is 7 mA, and the load current of G is 3 mA; the monitored load current of L on device #2 is 2 mA, the load current of N is 2 mA, and the load current of G is 0 mA; and the monitored load current of L on device #3 is 5 mA, the load current of N is 5 mA, and the load current of G is 0 mA. Based on this diagnostic information, the following conclusions can be drawn: Figure 9As shown, there is a ground fault between device #1 and device #2 because the current monitored on device #1 on line G (or ground) is 3 mA or not zero (or greater than zero). There is no ground fault in the section of the branch circuit between circuit breaker 310 and device #2, and in the section of the branch circuit between device #1 and device #3, because the ground current monitored in these two sections is zero.

[0073] Figure 10 An example is shown. Figure 7 An example circuit in which a parallel fault between the live wire and the neutral wire is detected between diagnostic devices 420 (e.g., devices #1 and #2). Figure 11 Other embodiments are shown. Figure 7 An example circuit is provided, in which a live-to-ground parallel fault is detected between device #1 and device #2. When implementing a diagnostic process for detecting parallel faults, diagnostic device 420 will be configured (or switched) to operate in a high-voltage power supply mode, wherein the load (R load) of diagnostic device 420 is regulated to maintain a low load current. For example, if the high voltage is 10 times the low voltage, the R load will be adjusted 10 times to maintain the same load current. The diagnostic system and method will examine the current sensing of the increase in load current caused by the parallel fault path. An increase in the monitored current on the neutral line N (e.g., neutral conductor) can indicate a live-to-neutral parallel fault (e.g., arcing from L to N). An increase in the monitored current on the ground line G (e.g., grounding) can indicate a live-to-ground fault (e.g., arcing from L to G).

[0074] Refer to Table 4 below for a description of the detection methods. Figure 7 and Figure 10 An example of a diagnostic process for a parallel fault between the live wire and the neutral wire in a circuit configuration.

[0075]

[0076] Table 4 describes an example live-to-neutral parallel fault (GF) detection analysis performed after the circuit mapping process. As shown in Table 4, the load current of L monitored on device #1 is greater than 10 mA and the load current of G is 0 mA; the load current of L monitored on device #2 is 2 mA and the load current of G is 0 mA; and the load current of L monitored on device #3 is 5 mA and the load current of G is 0 mA. Based on this diagnostic information, the following conclusions can be drawn: Figure 10As shown, there is a parallel fault between the live wire and the neutral wire in devices #1 and #2 because the current monitored on L for device #1 is greater than expected (e.g., >10 mA), and the current monitored on G for device #1 is zero. In this example, there is no parallel fault in the branch circuit between circuit breaker 310 and device #2, and in the branch circuit between device #1 and device #3, because the monitored ground wire G current in both sections is zero, and the monitored power line L current in both sections is the expected current level.

[0077] Refer to Table 5 below for a description of the detection methods. Figure 7 and 11 An example of how to diagnose a parallel fault between the live wire and the ground wire in a circuit configuration.

[0078]

[0079] Table 5 describes an example live-to-ground parallel fault (GF) detection analysis performed after the circuit mapping process. As shown in Table 5 above, the load current of L monitored on device #1 is 2 mA and the load current of G is greater than 0 mA (or, in this example, 1 mA); the load current of L monitored on device #2 is 2 mA and the load current of G is 0 mA; and the load current of L monitored on device #3 is 5 mA and the load current of G is 0 mA. Based on this diagnostic information, the following conclusions can be drawn: Figure 11 As shown, there is a live-to-ground parallel fault between devices #1 and #2 because the monitored current on G for device #1 is greater than 0 (e.g., >0 mA or 1 mA), and the monitored current on L for device #1 is at the expected current level (e.g., 10 mA). In this example, there is no parallel fault in the branch circuit between circuit breaker 310 and device #2, and in the branch circuit between device #1 and device #3, because the monitored ground current on G in both sections is zero, and the monitored power line current on L in both sections is at the expected current level.

[0080] Reference above Figure 6-11The various implementations described are provided only as non-limiting examples. Circuit configurations may include any number of diagnostic devices mounted along the branch circuit to be monitored at any number or all different electrical outlets. Furthermore, additional grounding and / or neutral circuit breakers for selectively disconnecting the ground and / or neutral wires may be integrated into the circuit breaker or distribution board at the start of the branch circuit for performing parallel and ground fault detection on the section of circuit between the circuit breaker and the first outlet location (sometimes referred to as the "home run"). For example, in some embodiments, when a parallel fault is detected along the home run, such a circuit breaker may be used to control and monitor (e.g., on the neutral or ground wire) the current return path to distinguish the type of parallel fault, such as a live-to-neutral parallel fault or a live-to-ground parallel fault. An example of such a switch (e.g., 500) is as follows... Figure 5 As shown.

[0081] Figure 12 and Figure 13 An example method 1200 is illustrated for monitoring, analyzing, and diagnosing conditions on a circuit (such as a branch circuit) according to an embodiment. For illustrative purposes, in this example, a smart device (e.g., Figure 1 (130) can be used with diagnostic devices (e.g., Figure 1 120 Figure 2 220, or Figure 4 420) and circuit breakers (e.g., Figure 1 110 or Figure 3 (310) Interaction, these diagnostic devices and circuit breakers are connected to the branch circuit to perform fault diagnosis of the branch circuit and socket location mapping.

[0082] Method 1200 begins at block 1202, in which the branch circuit is de-energized via a disconnecting / tripping circuit breaker. The circuit breaker may be a smart circuit breaker with a load and a processor, the load of which may be selectively activated or connected to the branch circuit, and the processor for controlling the operation of the circuit breaker.

[0083] In box 1204, the user identifies the unpowered electrical outlets of the branch circuit.

[0084] In box 1206, the user installs the diagnostic device at the receptacle location. For example, the user connects the electrical connector of the diagnostic device to branch wiring in the upstream and downstream sections at the receptacle location.

[0085] In box 1208, the user initiates a circuit diagnostic process, which is performed on a smart device (e.g., ...). Figure 1The diagnostics of the branch circuit are performed under the control of application software operating on a device such as a user-operable computer (e.g., a 130). As previously mentioned, among other things, the smart device can remotely control the operation of the circuit breaker and the diagnostic equipment installed at the outlet location on the branch circuit. The smart device can be a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, computer, or other computer or computing device.

[0086] In box 1210, users can (e.g., via smart devices) select (or assign) a unique identifier (ID) to the installed / connected diagnostic device. Alternatively, devices connected to a branch circuit may have already been pre-assigned or set with unique identifiers.

[0087] In box 1212, the user can select the troubleshooting parameters via a smart device. The troubleshooting parameters can define the scope of the diagnostics to be performed, including the type of fault or condition to search for when diagnosing the circuit, the diagnostic equipment or other equipment to be operated or controlled, etc.

[0088] In box 1214, users can initiate troubleshooting / diagnostic procedures via smart devices.

[0089] In box 1216, the smart device can establish communication with all selected diagnostic devices.

[0090] In block 1218, the smart device can assign a unique load level (e.g., load level, quantity, or value) to each diagnostic device and activate the load on the smart circuit breaker. The smart device can configure the power supply of the diagnostic devices to operate at a low voltage or current level, a high or higher voltage or current level, or other desired voltage or current level by adjusting the voltage level and / or load level supplied to the loads of the diagnostic devices and the circuit breaker. In various embodiments, the smart device can remotely control the variable power supply at each diagnostic device to set the output voltage of the diagnostic device to a low or high voltage level. A low voltage could be a touch-safe level.

[0091] In box 1220, the smart device can remotely control the diagnostic device to manipulate the switching circuit (e.g., a switch) of the diagnostic device. For example, in various embodiments, a single diagnostic device can manipulate the switching circuit at a time. In this way, the smart device can control the diagnostic device and the circuit breaker to check the load current under different power supply and load connection scenarios. For example, the diagnostic device can be operated to isolate different parts of a branch circuit, connect different loads or power supplies to different parts, and monitor the load current (e.g., L, N, and / or G) on different parts of the branch circuit. These different parts may include, for example, the part between the circuit breaker and the first / nearest socket location with the installed diagnostic device, and the part between the installed diagnostic devices along the branch circuit (e.g., see...). Figure 1 and Figure 6 (Example circuit portion shown in the example). Diagnostic information corresponding to the monitored load current from the diagnostic device can be transmitted to the smart device via wireless communication, such as via a star, mesh, or other network. The smart device can receive diagnostic information related to the monitored load current of different parts of the branch circuit from the diagnostic device (or the diagnostic device and the circuit breaker). In various embodiments, if the circuit breaker is configured to include sensors for monitoring load current, etc., the circuit breaker can also provide diagnostic information to the smart device.

[0092] In box 1230, the smart device determines, based on diagnostic information received from the diagnostic device (or the diagnostic device and the circuit breaker), whether all load currents have been considered for different sections of the circuit breaker. If not all load currents have been considered (e.g., indeterminate load currents monitored on (multiple) sections), the smart device can detect a series fault and its location at box 1232 and report the result to the user at box 1258. For example, a series fault is detected for (multiple) sections where no load current (e.g., 0 mA) is detected. (The above has been referenced...) Figure 8 The example circuit configuration describes an operational example. The report can be output to a user on the device (e.g., displayed), or electronically transmitted to another user's computer device or a central reporting or management facility.

[0093] If all load currents are considered at box 1230, the smart device determines whether a ground current has been detected at box 1240 based on diagnostic information received from the diagnostic device and circuit breaker. If a ground current is detected, the smart device detects the ground fault and its location at box 1242 and reports the result to the user at box 1258. (This has been previously referred to...) Figure 9 The example circuit configuration describes an operational example. The report can be output to a user on the device (e.g., displayed), or electronically transmitted to another user's computer device or a central reporting or management facility.

[0094] If no ground current is detected at box 1240, the smart device can cause the diagnostic device to operate at a high voltage level. For example, the smart device can remotely set the power supply voltage of the diagnostic device to a high voltage level. After the voltage level is set high, the smart device can control the diagnostic device and circuit breaker to check their load current under different power supply and load connection scenarios to monitor the load current of different parts of the branch circuit. The smart device can receive diagnostic information related to the monitored load current from the diagnostic device. The diagnostic information can be transmitted to the smart device wirelessly via a network.

[0095] In box 1252, the smart device can determine whether the load current has increased beyond the expected current level based on diagnostic information received from the diagnostic device (or the diagnostic device and the circuit breaker). If the load current has increased, the smart device detects the location of a parallel fault in box 1254 and reports the result to the user in box 1258. (The above has already been referenced...) Figure 10 and Figure 11 The example circuit configuration describes an operational example for detecting a parallel fault between the live wire and the neutral wire and the live wire and the ground wire. This report can be output to a user on the device (e.g., displayed), or transmitted to another user computer device or a central reporting or management facility.

[0096] If the load current does not increase, the smart device detects no fault on the circuit (or no fault is detected) at box 1256 and reports the result to the user at box 1258. This report can be output to the user on the device (e.g., displayed), or transmitted to another user computer device or a central reporting or management facility.

[0097] The above describes an example method for performing diagnostics on a branch circuit. The various operations described above, performed by the smart device, can alternatively be performed at or through one of the diagnostic devices (e.g., the main diagnostic device), and the diagnostic device can then transmit a report on the diagnostic status of the branch circuit to the user device. The various operations described above by the smart device can be performed based on parameters or settings predefined and / or provided by the user.

[0098] Figure 14 An example method 1400 is illustrated for monitoring, analyzing, and diagnosing conditions on a circuit (e.g., a branch circuit) according to an embodiment.

[0099] In box 1402, diagnostic devices are installed (or connected) at different socket locations along the branch circuit.

[0100] In box 1404, it is determined whether power is off on the branch circuit (e.g., the circuit breaker is in the trip / “OFF” position). If power is not off, in box 1406, power to the branch circuit is cut off via the circuit breaker (e.g., the circuit breaker is turned to the “OFF” position). If power is off, in box 1408, different loads can be set or assigned to each diagnostic device and circuit breaker. As described herein, the diagnostic devices and circuit breakers can each have variable loads.

[0101] In box 1410, diagnostic devices and circuit breakers can be operated or controlled to provide different power and load connection scenarios to isolate and monitor load currents on different portions of a branch circuit. To monitor load currents on different portions, diagnostic information corresponding to the monitored load currents on the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit at the receptacle location is sensed, measured, calculated, or derived based on electrical characteristics (e.g., current or voltage) measured on the conductors of the branch circuit by sensors(s) on the diagnostic devices. For example, each diagnostic device may use a neutral current sensor and a ground current sensor to measure the load current on the isolated circuit portion (e.g., see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4 Under normal circuit conditions, the expected current on the power line L is equal to the neutral line N current plus the ground line G current. Each diagnostic device may also use a current or voltage sensor to measure the current on its load (R load), or a power line current sensor to measure the current on the power line (L). The load current on a branch circuit or part thereof (e.g., the current on conductors L, N, and G) can be sensed, measured, calculated, or derived using different types or combinations of current and / or voltage sensors on the diagnostic device (and, if necessary, on the circuit breaker).

[0102] In box 1412, various information about the branch circuit can be determined based on diagnostic information from diagnostic devices and circuit breakers, which is obtained for different power supply levels (e.g., low voltage or high voltage). The determined information may include a mapping (or sequence) of socket / socket locations along the branch circuit, identification and location of faults on the branch circuit, or other conditions on the circuit.

[0103] In box 1414, the information determined for the branch circuit can be output to the user / user device as a report or in some other format.

[0104] exist Figure 14 The various operations described in the examples above can be performed under the control of a host computer device or central computer device (e.g., a smart device, a main diagnostic box, etc.). As described herein, in various embodiments, a user-operated computer device can interact with diagnostic devices and circuit breakers to coordinate, control, and / or implement... Figure 14 Method 1400 includes one or more of the above operations.

[0105] Figure 15 Example components of a computer device or system 1500 according to an embodiment are illustrated. Figure 15 As shown, computer system 1500 may include, for example, memory 1520, processor(s) 1530, clock 1540, output(s) 1550, input(s) 1560, communication device 1570, and bus system 1580 between components of the computer system.

[0106] Memory 1520 may store computer-executable code, programs, software, or instructions that, when executed by the processor(s), control the operation of computer system 1500, including the various methods / procedures described herein. Memory 1520 may also store other data used by computer system 1500 or its components to perform the operations described herein. This other data may include, but is not limited to, identifiers of remote devices including, but not limited to, diagnostic devices and circuit breakers, and their device parameters (e.g., power supply, voltage source, current source, monitored load current, values ​​of the load(s), etc.), physical or scientific laws, and other information described herein. Memory / storage devices may include, but are not limited to, disks, solid-state drives, optical discs, removable storage devices such as smart cards, SIM cards, WIM cards, semiconductor memories such as RAM, ROM, PROMS, etc.

[0107] The output devices 1550 may include display devices, printing devices, speakers, etc. For example, the output devices 1550 may output to display or present a graphical user interface (GUI), a diagnostic report of the analyzed circuit, or other data or information as described herein.

[0108] The (multiple) input devices 1560 may include any user input device, such as a mouse, trackball, microphone, touchscreen, joystick, console, keyboard / pad, touchscreen, or other user-operable device. The (multiple) input devices 1560 may also accept data from external sources, such as other devices and systems.

[0109] The processor(s) 1530, which interact with other components of the computer system, are configured to control or implement various operations described herein. These operations may include implementing or controlling circuit monitoring, analysis, and diagnostics, as well as other processes described herein. The processor(s) described herein may be a processing system, which may include one or more processors, such as a CPU, GPU, controller, dedicated circuitry, or other processing unit that controls the operations of the device or system described herein.

[0110] The communication system 1570 can perform communication via a transmission medium or network. The transmission medium or network can include, but is not limited to, the following: wireless communication (e.g., radio frequency (RF) communication, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, etc.), wired communication, the Internet, intranet, telephone / modem-based network communication, hardwired / cable communication networks, satellite communication, star networks, mesh networks, and other fixed or mobile network systems / communication links.

[0111] The above describes example components of a computer device or system, such as a computer, a portable computer (e.g., a smart device, a smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, etc.), a server, or other data processing system. Output device 1550 and input device 1560 can communicate with processor 1530 via a local bus or a network, respectively. The computer device or system can be a standalone device or a distributed processing system.

[0112] Various embodiments have been referenced above. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments specifically described. Rather, any combination of the described features and elements, whether or not associated with different embodiments, is contemplated to achieve and practice the intended embodiments. Furthermore, while embodiments may provide advantages over other possible solutions or prior art, whether a particular advantage is achieved by a given embodiment does not limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0113] The various embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as systems, methods, or computer program products. Therefore, aspects can take the form of entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects, which are generally referred to herein as “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, aspects can take the form of computer program products contained in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code contained thereon.

[0114] Any combination of one or more computer-readable media may be used. The computer-readable medium may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. A non-transitory computer-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatuses, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples (not an exhaustive list) of non-transitory computer-readable media may include: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. Program code implemented on a computer-readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, fiber optic cables, RF, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0115] Computer program code used to perform the operations of the aspects of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. Furthermore, such computer program code can be executed using a single computer system or multiple computer systems communicating with each other (e.g., using a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), the Internet, etc.). Although the various features described above are illustrated with reference to flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams, those skilled in the art will understand that each block of the flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer logic (e.g., computer program instructions, hardware logic, combinations of both, etc.). Typically, computer program instructions can be provided to processor(s) of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus. Furthermore, executing such computer program instructions using processor(s) produces a machine capable of performing the functions(s) or actions(s) specified in one or more blocks of the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0116] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and / or operation of various implementations of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, code segment, or code portion, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions mentioned in the blocks may not occur in the order shown in the figures. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may actually occur substantially simultaneously, or these blocks may sometimes occur in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It will also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented by a system based on dedicated hardware or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions that performs the specified function or action.

[0117] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many other implementations will become apparent after reading and understanding the above description. Although this disclosure describes specific examples, it should be recognized that the systems and methods of this disclosure are not limited to the examples described herein.

Claims

1. A diagnostic device for performing diagnostics on a branch circuit of an electrical system, the branch circuit having a plurality of electrical conductors including a power line, a neutral line, and a ground line, the diagnostic device comprising: An electrical connector includes a first set of terminals and a second set of terminals, the first set of terminals being used to connect to an electrical conductor of the branch circuit in an upstream direction at an electrical socket location, and the second set of terminals being used to connect to the electrical conductor of the branch circuit in a downstream direction at the electrical socket location; load; power supply; A switching circuit coupled to the first set of terminals and the second set of terminals of the electrical connector, the load and the power supply, the switching circuit being used to isolate the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit located at the electrical socket, and to selectively connect or disconnect the power supply or the load from the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit located at the electrical socket location via the electrical connector; as well as A sensor is used to measure the electrical characteristics of the electrical conductors in the branch circuit to monitor the current in the power line, the neutral line, and the ground line; as well as At least one processor is configured to: control the switching circuit to selectively connect the power supply or the load to a portion of the branch circuit located upstream or downstream of the electrical outlet location; and obtain diagnostic information corresponding to the monitored currents on the power line, the neutral line, and the ground line based on the measurements performed by the sensor.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The load is a variable load, and the processor is also configured to set the variable load to a different load level than other loads connected on the branch circuit.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The power source is a variable power source, and the processor is also configured to control the amount of power supplied by the variable power source to the isolated portion of the branch circuit located upstream or downstream of the electrical outlet location.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The switching circuit is operable in a first switch configuration and a second switch configuration, wherein the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit are isolated from each other at the electrical outlet location, the first switch configuration connecting the power supply to the upstream portion and the load to the downstream portion, and the second switch configuration connecting the power supply to the downstream portion and the load to the upstream portion.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The switching circuit is operable in a third switch configuration, wherein the upstream and downstream portions of the branch circuit are electrically connected at the electrical socket location.

6. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The power level of the power source is controllable, and the output voltage is selected from one of a first voltage level that can induce an arc fault and a second voltage level that cannot induce an arc fault.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The voltage level supplied by the power source and / or the load level that can be connected to the branch circuit are selectively controllable to limit the current on the branch circuit to a current level that can prevent or reduce potentially dangerous arcing faults from reaching dangerous levels.

8. A diagnostic system, comprising: A circuit breaker, located at the beginning of a branch circuit, the circuit breaker including a load that can be selectively connected to the branch circuit; as well as A plurality of diagnostic devices as claimed in claim 1, each of the plurality of diagnostic devices being configured to be connected to an electrical conductor of the branch circuit at different electrical outlet locations along the branch circuit, the switching circuits of the plurality of diagnostic devices being operable to provide different combinations of power and load connections along the branch circuit to isolate and monitor load current on different portions of the branch circuit, the different portions of the branch circuit including portions having electrical outlet locations of the diagnostic devices connected thereto. Specifically, the type and location of a fault on the branch circuit are determined based on the monitored load current, or a mapping of the location of an electrical socket along the branch circuit is determined based on the monitored load current.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the plurality of diagnostic devices and the circuit breaker includes a communication device, and the system further includes: Computer equipment, including a processor, memory, and communication devices, is configured to: The circuit breaker and the plurality of diagnostic devices are remotely controlled to selectively isolate different portions of the branch circuit and monitor the load current on the isolated portions of the branch circuit. Diagnostic information is received from the circuit breaker and the plurality of diagnostic devices via the communication equipment of the computer device. The received diagnostic information includes information corresponding to the monitored load current of different parts of the branch circuit, and... The type and location of the fault on the branch circuit are determined based on the received diagnostic information, or a mapping of the electrical socket location along the branch circuit is determined based on the received diagnostic information.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein, The computer device is also configured to report to the user the type and location of the fault or a mapping of the location of the electrical outlet.

11. The system according to claim 9, wherein, The computer device is configured to control the diagnostic device and the circuit breaker to obtain diagnostic information, which is used to analyze one or more types of faults defined by the user via a user input device or by the type of fault protected by the circuit breaker.

12. The system of claim 9 further includes a grounding circuit breaker that selectively disconnects the grounding upstream of a plurality of electrical outlet locations, the grounding circuit breaker being operable to disconnect the grounding when monitoring load current to detect a ground fault, and distinguishing between a live-to-neutral parallel fault and a live-to-ground parallel fault along a portion of the branch circuit between the circuit breaker and the nearest electrical outlet location, the nearest electrical outlet location having a diagnostic device connected thereto.

13. A method for performing diagnostics on a branch circuit in an electrical system having multiple electrical outlet locations, the branch circuit having multiple electrical conductors including a power line, a neutral line, and a ground line, the method comprising: Multiple diagnostic devices are connected to the upstream and downstream electrical conductors of the branch circuit at different electrical outlet locations. Each diagnostic device includes: a load, a power supply, a sensor for measuring electrical characteristics on the branch circuit to monitor current in the power line, the neutral line, and the ground line, and a switching circuit for isolating the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet and for selectively connecting or disconnecting the power supply or the load from the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit at the electrical outlet location via the electrical connector. The switching circuits controlling each of the plurality of diagnostic devices provide different combinations of power and load connections along branch circuits to isolate and monitor load currents on different portions of the branch circuits, including portions between electrical socket locations of the diagnostic devices connected thereto; and The type and location of a fault on the branch circuit can be determined based on the monitored load current, or a mapping of the socket location along the branch circuit can be determined based on the monitored load current.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The diagnostic operation is performed under the control of a computer device, and the determination operation is performed by the computer device based on diagnostic information corresponding to the monitored load received from the plurality of diagnostic devices.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The load on the diagnostic device is a variable load, and the method further includes: The variable load is set to a load level different from other loads connected on the branch circuit.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The power supply for one of the diagnostic devices is a variable power supply, and the method further includes: The power level supplied by the variable power source to the upstream or downstream portion of the branch circuit is controlled from the location of the electrical socket of one of the diagnostic devices connected in the diagnostic equipment.

17. The method of claim 14, further comprising: The power level of the power supply of one or more of the diagnostic devices is controlled to output a voltage at a selectable level, either a first voltage level capable of activating an arc fault or a second voltage level not capable of activating an arc fault.

18. The method of claim 14, further comprising: Selectively control the voltage level supplied by the power source and / or the load level on the branch circuit to limit the current on the branch circuit to a current level that can prevent or reduce potentially dangerous arcing faults from reaching dangerous levels.

19. A tangible computer memory device for storing computer-executable code, which, when executed by a computer, performs the method of any one of claims 13-18.

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