Intelligent branch circuit metering system

Abstract

The invention relates to an intelligent branch circuit metering system. The sensor assembly may include a base, a first wing coupled to a first side of the base, and a second wing coupled to a second side of the base, wherein the base, the first wing, and the second wing form a cavity. The sensor assembly may include at least one terminal block disposed within the cavity and communicatively coupled to the controller. The sensor assembly may include a plurality of current transformers, where one or more of the plurality of current transformers can be entirely or partially removably coupled to the at least one terminal block when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in an open configuration, and where one or more of the plurality of current transformers can be entirely or partially removably coupled to the at least one terminal block when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in a closed configuration. One or more of the plurality of current transformers are not removable from the at least one terminal block.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 724,777, filed November 25, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to branch circuit monitoring, and more specifically to systems and related components used for monitoring branch circuits. Background Technology

[0004] Branch circuit monitors provide tracking and recording of one or more parameters of a circuit. For example, these monitors, typically containing multiple current transformers, can monitor the circuit's current, voltage, power factor, and / or energy usage. Typically, these monitors are located adjacent to or integrated within a circuit breaker enclosure, where they must meet specific dimensional requirements. Branch circuit monitors generally include rigid, monolithic sensor supports for mounting the current transformers (CTs) and connecting their wiring to external connections. These external connections are then attached to a centralized power metering system via additional cables. The rigid and monolithic design of branch circuit monitors makes customization and maintenance difficult. For example, replacing a defective current transformer within a branch circuit monitor may require removing part or all of the sensor support to expose multiple current transformers. Data connections from each current transformer to the centralized power metering system typically require complex wiring designs.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for branch circuit monitors that are easier to implement and maintain or easier to upgrade sensors than existing systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one or more embodiments, a sensor assembly for wiring in an electrical system is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes a sensor support. In one or more embodiments, the sensor support includes: a base; a first wing coupled to a first side of the base; and a second wing coupled to a second side of the base, wherein the base, the first wing, and the second wing form a cavity. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes at least one terminal block disposed within the cavity and communicatively coupled to a controller. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes a plurality of current transformers, wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in an open configuration, one or more of the current transformers are removably coupled to the at least one terminal block, and wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in a closed configuration, one or more of the current transformers cannot be removed from the at least one terminal block.

[0007] In one embodiment, a circuit breaker panel is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the circuit breaker panel includes a plurality of circuit breakers. In one or more embodiments, the circuit breaker panel includes a sensor assembly. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes a sensor support. In one or more embodiments, the sensor support includes: a base; a first wing coupled to a first side of the base; and a second wing coupled to a second side of the base, wherein the base, the first wing, and the second wing form a cavity. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes at least one terminal block disposed within the cavity and communicatively coupled to a controller. In one or more embodiments, the sensor assembly includes a plurality of current transformers communicatively coupled to the plurality of circuit breakers, wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in an open configuration, one or more of the plurality of current transformers are removably coupled to the at least one terminal block, wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in a closed configuration, one or more of the plurality of current transformers are not removable from the at least one terminal block.

[0008] In one embodiment, a method for replacing a defective current transformer from a sensor assembly is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the method includes: moving at least one of a first wing or a second wing of a sensor support of the sensor assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein moving at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support of the sensor assembly from the first position to the second position such that the at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support of the sensor assembly is hinged from a closed configuration to an open configuration; removing a first current transformer from a first connector of a terminal block of the sensor assembly; inserting a second current transformer into the first connector of the terminal block of the sensor assembly; and moving at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support of the sensor assembly from the second position to the first position, wherein moving at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support of the sensor assembly from the second position to the first position such that the at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support of the sensor assembly is hinged to rotate from an open configuration to a closed configuration. The second current transformer may include an open-type transformer. The use of split-core current transformers is particularly advantageous for retrofit applications where the sensing components are installed in existing panel boards lacking current sensing. For example, the split core cover can be removed to allow branch circuit wiring to be inserted into and pass through the core of the split-core transformer before being reinstalled.

[0009] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative only, and are not necessarily limitations on the claimed invention. The accompanying drawings, incorporated in and forming part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Those skilled in the art can better understand the many advantages of this disclosure by referring to the accompanying drawings.

[0011] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a block diagram illustrating a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1C This is a schematic front view of a circuit breaker panel including a sensor assembly, according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2A A perspective view of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 2B Partial exploded views of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0015] Figure 2C An exploded view of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 3A A perspective view of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 3B Partial exploded views of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0018] Figure 3C An exploded view of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 3D A close-up perspective view of an open-type current transformer according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 4 A perspective view of a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0021] Figure 5A process flowchart depicting a method for replacing a defective current transformer from a sensor assembly according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Before explaining one or more embodiments of this disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the embodiments, in their application, are not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components, steps, or methods set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description of the embodiments, numerous specific details may be set forth to provide a more thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure that the embodiments disclosed herein can be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known features may not be described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating this disclosure.

[0023] As used herein, the letters following the reference numerals are intended to designate embodiments of features or elements that may be similar to, but not necessarily identical to, previously described elements or features having the same reference numerals (e.g., 1, 1a, 1b). Such abbreviated symbols are used for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0024] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive "or," not an exclusive "or." For example, conditions A or B are satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0025] Furthermore, the terms “a” or “an” may be used to describe elements and components of the embodiments disclosed herein. This is for convenience only, and unless explicitly stated otherwise, “a” and “an” are intended to include “one” or “at least one”, and the singular forms also include the plural.

[0026] Finally, as used herein, any reference to “one embodiment” or “various embodiments” means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment disclosed herein. The phrase “in an embodiment” appearing in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment in all cases, and an embodiment may include one or more, or any combination or sub-combination of two or more such features that are expressly described or inherent in this disclosure, as well as any other features that may not be expressly described or inherent in this disclosure.

[0027] A sensor assembly for monitoring branch circuits is disclosed. The sensor assembly includes a sensor support, a terminal block disposed within the sensor support and communicatively coupled to a metering system, and a plurality of current transformers removably coupled to the terminal block, either wholly or partially. The sensor support may include movable wings, allowing the sensor support to switch between an open configuration and a closed configuration: the open configuration allows insertion and removal of individual current transformers, while the closed configuration prevents contact with the current transformers. The sensor assembly enables easy access and maintenance of individual current transformers and simplifies the wiring required to transmit data from individual current transformers to a centralized power metering system or network. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly is segmented, thereby simplifying its customization.

[0028] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a block diagram illustrating a sensor assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The sensor assembly 100 can be used to collect circuit flow information from a set of circuits. For example, the sensor assembly 100 can be mounted near or inside a circuit breaker panel housing, allowing convenient monitoring of multiple branches from a circuit breaker in the panel from a single location. Systems and methods for branch circuit metering are generally described in U.S. Patent No. 7,477,501, filed June 2, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0029] In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 100 includes a plurality of sensors 102 disposed within a sensor support 103. The plurality of sensors 102 are configured to detect and / or measure one or more parameters of the set of circuits. For example, the plurality of sensors 102 may include current transformers capable of detecting current flowing through the circuit. For example, the plurality of sensors 102 may include any type of current transformer, including but not limited to enclosed current transformers (e.g., toroidal core current transformers), open current transformers (e.g., open-type current transformers or open-type non-contact current transformers), and flying-lead current transformers. The plurality of sensors 102 may also be capable of measuring other electrical parameters (including but not limited to voltage, power factor, and energy usage).

[0030] In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 100 includes one or more terminal blocks 104 configured to be removably coupled to one or more of a plurality of sensors 102. For example, the plurality of sensors 102 may be insertable (e.g., via a block connector (not shown)) into the terminal blocks 104, thereby allowing an operator to easily insert and / or remove the plurality of sensors without the need for soldering or other complex wiring processes.

[0031] In one embodiment, one or more of the sensors 102 include resistors, such as load resistors. For example, a sensor 102 such as a current transformer typically requires a resistor connected in parallel with the secondary coil of the current transformer, which converts the current output into a proportional voltage output that can be measured by one or more controllers 106. In one embodiment, the resistor is integrated into one or more terminal blocks 104. In another embodiment, the resistor is integrated into the controller 106.

[0032] In one implementation, sensor assembly 100 includes one or more controllers 106. The one or more controllers 106 are configured to control one or more aspects of sensor assembly 100. For example, controller 106 may be configured to receive input from sensor 102 and perform electricity metering calculations based on that input. In another example, controller 106 may be configured to send outputs based on inputs and / or electricity metering calculations. In yet another example, controller 106 may be configured to retrieve calibration values ​​and perform a calibration protocol for the sensor assembly. Controller 106 may include one or more processors 110 and a memory 108 storing instructions for use by the one or more processors 110 to perform one or more functions of controller 106.

[0033] In one implementation, the sensor assembly 100 includes an auxiliary input 112 for receiving power and / or sensor data. For example, the auxiliary input 112 may be configured to receive a three-phase voltage input for supplying power to metering electronics and / or for power calculations.

[0034] In one implementation, the sensor assembly 100 includes a data terminal 114 configured to send and / or receive data between the sensor assembly and a data collector (e.g., a network data collector). For example, the data terminal 114 may be directly wired for an external power metering connection. In another example, the data terminal 114 transmits power metering data to a network data collector using a wired or wireless means. In yet another example, the data terminal 114 is configured to transmit data from the sensor assembly 100 to the data collector.

[0035] In one or more embodiments of this disclosure, the sensor assembly 100 includes one or more daisy-chain connectors 116, such as... Figure 1BAs shown, one or more daisy-chain connectors 116 enable sensor assembly 100 to be mechanically and electrically coupled to another sensor assembly 100. For example, one or more daisy-chain connectors 116 can be configured to couple more than two sensor assemblies 100 together in a daisy-chain configuration. One or more daisy-chain connectors 116 can be communicatively and / or electrically coupled to one or more controllers 106.

[0036] In one implementation, sensor assembly 100 includes a display 118 or display port communicatively coupled to controller 106. For example, sensor assembly 100 may include a display 118 embedded in sensor support 103 that displays one or more electrical parameters output by controller 106 and / or the status of sensor assembly 100. In another example, sensor assembly 100 may include a display port that may be coupled to an external display that displays electrical parameters and / or the status of sensor assembly.

[0037] Figure 1C This is a schematic front view of a circuit breaker panel 120 including a sensor assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure. The circuit breaker panel 120 may include a circuit breaker assembly 122 having a plurality of circuit breakers 124, 126. Wiring 128, 130 feeds power from the circuit breakers to loads 132, 134. The sensor assembly 100 includes current transformers (e.g., sensors 102a, 102b) mounted thereon for measuring the current through the wiring 128, 130 of sensors 102a, 102b between the circuit breakers 124, 126 and the loads 132, 134. Signals from sensors 102a, 102b are transmitted to a controller 106 for processing.

[0038] Figure 2A A perspective view of a sensor assembly 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The sensor assembly 200 may include one or more components of the sensor assembly 100, or vice versa. The sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 includes a base 202, a first wing 204 coupled to the base 202 on a first side, and a second wing 206 coupled to the base 202 on a second side. In an embodiment, the first wing 204 and the second wing 206 are coupled to the base 202 via hinges 208, 209. In an embodiment, the first wing 204 and / or the second wing 206 include protective elements 210a, 210b or other structures that protect and / or isolate the sensor 102. When positioned in a closed configuration, the protective elements 210a, 210b act as a cage, thereby protecting the sensor 102.

[0039] Figure 2BA partial exploded view of a sensor assembly 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The base 202 is shown isolated from a subassembly 212 including a first wing 204 and a second wing 206. The first wing 204 is partially movable or opened to expose a plurality of sensors 102.

[0040] In one embodiment, the base 202 includes a substrate 213 and side plates 214, 216, which together form a frame having a cavity 218. The cavity 218 contains one or more components of the sensor assembly 100 (e.g., sub-assembly 212) or is integrated with one or more components of the sensor assembly 100 (e.g., sub-assembly 212). The cavity 218 may be further defined by a first wing 204 and a second wing 206. For example, when the first wing 204 and / or the second wing 206 are in a closed position (e.g., as shown in the image), the cavity 218 is further defined by a first wing 204 and / or a second wing 206. Figure 2A (As shown) Move to a partially open configuration (e.g., as shown) Figure 2B As shown in the diagram, the first wing 204 and the second wing 206 form a cavity 218 containing multiple sensors 102. Figure 2B The opening of the first wing 204 exposes a terminal block 104 communicatively coupled to a plurality of sensors 102. In an embodiment, the first wing 204 and the second wing 206 are integrated with corresponding side plates 214, 216.

[0041] In one embodiment, base 202 houses controller 106. For example, sensor assembly 200 may include a printed circuit board (PCB 220) or other medium housing controller 106. For example, PCB 220 may be communicatively coupled to terminal block 104, thereby effectively coupling multiple sensors 102 to controller 106. In another embodiment, controller 106 may include multiple components both inside and outside sensor support 103. For example, PCB 220 may include one or more processors 110 that receive signals from terminal block 104, wherein controller 106 also includes one or more processors 110 outside sensor support 103 that receive signals from PCB 220 and further process the signals before transmitting data to a network.

[0042] Figure 2CAn exploded view of a sensor assembly 200 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In one embodiment, the sensor assembly includes a support post 222 configured to support a plurality of sensors 102 within the sensor assembly 200. For example, the support post may be disposed within a cavity 218 defined at least partially by a first wing 204 and a second wing 206. The support post 222 may include a plurality of posts 224 into which the sensors 102 can be inserted. For example, the sensor assembly 200 may be configured to include a sensor 102, the sensor 102 including a coil current transformer having a coil mounted around the posts 224.

[0043] Figure 3A A perspective view of a sensor assembly 300 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The sensor assembly 300 may include one or more components of sensor assemblies 100, 200, or vice versa. In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 300 includes a plurality of caps 302 that cover the top of the sensor assembly 300 and shield a plurality of sensors 102, making them invisible. The first wing 204 and the second wing 206 of the sensor assembly 300 may include a reduced protective element 210 or the protective element 210 may be omitted. In one embodiment, the cap 302 covers or is integrated into an open-type current transformer. For example, the cap 302 may be integrated into the open-type current transformer (e.g., as a protective cover for the open-type current transformer). For example, when it is necessary to remove a faulty open-type current transformer, the cap 302 and / or the open-type current transformer can be separated, thereby allowing removal of the measured leads 128, 130 enclosed by the open-type current transformer. The use of open-type current transformers is particularly advantageous for retrofit applications where the sensing assembly 300 is installed in an existing panel board lacking current sensing. For example, the separate core cover can be removed to allow branch circuit wiring to be inserted into and pass through the core of the open-type transformer before being reinstalled.

[0044] Figure 3B A partially exploded view of a sensor assembly 300 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The view includes a base 202 and a sub-assembly 212, with a single cap 302 of a plurality of caps 302 removed. Removing the cap 302 exposes a portion of a plurality of sensors 102 and a support post 222. In embodiments, the cap 302 is coupled to the sensor assembly 300 via an interference fit or a friction fit. For example, the cap 302 can be secured to the sensor assembly 300 by at least partially fitting to the support post 222, the sensor 102, the first wing 204, and / or the second wing 206.

[0045] Figure 3CAn exploded view of a sensor assembly 300 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A plurality of caps 302 are clearly shown, each cap including one or more protrusions 304 that relate to providing an interference fit between the cap 302 and the remainder of the sensor assembly 300.

[0046] In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 300 includes a support post 306, which includes a series of brackets 308. For example, one or more sensors 102 of the sensor assembly 300 can be mounted into the brackets 308 to secure one or more sensors 102.

[0047] Figure 3D A close-up perspective view of a sensor 102a (e.g., an open-type current transformer) according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In the embodiments, one or more of the plurality of sensors 102a include an open-type current transformer. For example, any of the sensor assemblies 100, 200, and 300 disclosed herein may include one or more open-type current transformers. The open-type current transformer may include a base portion 312 and a cover portion 314, the cover portion 314 being partially removable from the base portion 312, thereby allowing the removal of the lead 128 from the open-type current transformer 102a without disconnecting the lead or the core of the open-type current transformer. Once replaced, the cover portion 314 is closed, thereby reconstructing the core of the open-type current transformer. As described herein, the base portion 312 may be reversibly inserted into the terminal block 104.

[0048] This document envisions that the design of sensor assemblies 100, 200, and 300, as disclosed herein, incorporating open-type current transformers, may be particularly advantageous for upgrading electronic components in the art. For example, if a current transformer becomes defective, or if a current transformer with improved performance or other sensor assembly components becomes available, the defective and / or obsolete current transformer can be easily replaced with a new open-type current transformer. The use of open-type current transformers is particularly advantageous for retrofit applications where the sensing assembly 300 is installed in an existing distribution board lacking current sensing. For example, the split core cover can be detached, allowing branch circuit wiring to be inserted and passed through the core of the open-type transformer, and then reinstalled.

[0049] This paper also envisions that, as disclosed herein, sensor assemblies 100, 200, and 300 incorporating open-type current transformers may be particularly advantageous for retrofitting older sensor assembly systems. For example, by replacing an older sensor system that does not include an open-type current transformer with a sensor assembly 100, 200, or 300 incorporating an open-type current transformer, the electrical system can be transformed into a field-upgradeable and field-repairable system. The use of open-type current transformers is particularly advantageous for retrofit applications where the sensor assembly 300 is installed in an existing distribution board lacking current sensing. For example, the separate core cover can be detached, allowing branch circuit wiring to be inserted and passed through the core of the open-type transformer before reinstallation.

[0050] Figure 4 A perspective view of a sensor assembly 400 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The sensor assembly 400 may include one or more components of sensor assemblies 100, 200, 300, or vice versa. The sensor assembly 400 is shown with a modular, flexible, and articulated body that can adapt to different branch circuit wiring topologies.

[0051] In one embodiment, the sensor assembly 400 comprises a plurality of sensor segments 402a-g, which are coupled to each other via hinges 404a-g. One or more of the plurality of sensor segments 402a-g may also include a sensor support 406, which includes portions similar to a base 202, a first wing 204 (or side plate 214), and a second wing 206 (or side plate 216). One or more of the plurality of segments 402a-g may include, but are not limited to, a sensor 102, a terminal block 104, a controller 106, an auxiliary input 112, a data terminal 114, a daisy-chain connector 116, and a display 118 or display port. The sensor assembly 400 may also include one or more terminal segments 408. One or more terminal segments 408 may be used to enable the sensor assembly 400 to be coupled to another sensor assembly 100, 200, 300, 400. The sensor segments 402a to 402g may be modular and flexible. For example, sensor assembly 400 may include any number of sensor segments 402, and / or be adjusted to have any number of sensor segments 402, including but not limited to three, five, seven, ten, or twenty or more segments. In another example, sensor segments 404a to 404g may be aligned in a non-linear or non-linear arrangement due to the flexible joints connecting sensor segments 402a to 402g. For example, one or more sensor segments 404a to 404g of sensor assembly 400 may be configured to align with a curved surface.

[0052] In this implementation, the sensor segments 402a-g of the sensor assembly 400 are modular. For example, one or more sensor segments 402 can be added to or removed from an existing sensor assembly 400, wherein each sensor segment 402 is capable of monitoring circuitry.

[0053] Figure 5 A process flow diagram depicting a method 500 for replacing a defective current transformer (e.g., sensor 102) from a sensor assembly is shown according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure. Method 500 can be utilized by sensor assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400.

[0054] In one implementation, method 500 includes step 510: moving at least one of the first wing 204 or the second wing 206 of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 from a first position to a second position, wherein moving at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 from the first position (e.g., moving) to the second position causes at least one of the first wing 204 or the second wing 206 of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 to articulate from a closed configuration to an open configuration. For example, in the closed configuration, the sensors 102 are at least partially fixed and / or hidden to make them invisible, making them difficult for an operator or other parts outside the sensor assembly 100 to touch or contact, while in the open configuration, the sensors are not obstructed by the first wing 204, the second wing, the cap 302 and / or the sensor support 406, thereby allowing the operator to access the sensors 102.

[0055] In one implementation, method 500 includes step 520 of removing a first current transformer (e.g., a defective sensor 102) from a first connector of terminal block 104 of sensor assembly 100. For example, removing the first current transformer from the first connector may require pulling the first current transformer with an operator's fingers or a tool. Since the first current transformer is not soldered, it can be removed without desoldering. At this point, wire 128 can be removed from the second current transformer.

[0056] In one implementation, method 500 includes step 530 of inserting a second current transformer (e.g., a defect-free sensor 102) into a first connector of terminal block 104 of sensor assembly 100. For example, the second current transformer can be pushed into place using an operator's fingers or a tool, and the connection does not require soldering. At this point, wire 128 can be threaded back through the second current transformer.

[0057] In one embodiment, method 500 includes step 540: moving at least one of the first wing 204 or the second wing 206 of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 from a second position to a first position, wherein moving at least one of the first wing 204 or the second wing 206 of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 from the second position to the first position causes at least one of the first wing 204 or the second wing 206 of the sensor support 103 of the sensor assembly 200 to hingedly rotate from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0058] Sensor assembly 100 provides a flexible system for monitoring circuitry. First wing 204 and second wing 206 form a cage-like structure when closed, allowing bottom-up or top-down attachment to branch circuit wiring. Due to the modularity of sensor assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 400, embedded branch power metering capabilities provide input power metering without the additional cost of additional current transformers. Embedded non-volatile memory 108 allows for the storage and retrieval of calibration coefficients programmed at manufacturing time. Memory 108 can also instruct processor 110 to program the voltage phase correlation with each current transformer. Embedded memory 108 also includes data sufficient to derive the associated feed input current, thus eliminating the need for large, expensive current transformers that could pose an electrical hazard when removing the load. The ability of the sensor assembly to quickly open and close, combined with the solderless aspect of terminal block 104, allows for field-mounted changes to current transformers without removing sensor assembly 100 from circuit breaker panel 120 for maintenance.

[0059] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the prior art has advanced to the point where there is little difference between hardware and software implementations of various aspects of a system; the use of hardware or software is often (but not always, as the choice between hardware and software may become important in certain contexts) a design choice representing a trade-off between cost and efficiency. Those skilled in the art will understand that various tools (e.g., hardware, software, and / or firmware) exist that can be used to implement the processes and / or systems and / or other technologies described herein, and the preferred tools will vary depending on the context in which the processes and / or systems and / or other technologies are deployed. For example, if the implementer determines that speed and accuracy are of paramount importance, the implementer may primarily choose a hardware and / or firmware carrier; alternatively, if flexibility is of paramount importance, the implementer may primarily choose a software implementation; or, again alternatively, the implementer may choose some combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Therefore, several possible tools exist that can be used to implement the processes and / or devices and / or other technologies described herein, and no tool is inherently superior to another, because any tool to be utilized depends on the context in which the tool will be deployed and the implementer's specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability), any of which can vary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the optical aspects of the implementation will typically employ optically oriented hardware, software, and / or firmware.

[0060] One or more processors 110 may include any processor or processing element known in the art. For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "processor" or "processing element" may be broadly defined to encompass any device having one or more processing or logic elements (e.g., one or more microprocessor devices, one or more application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) devices, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or one or more digital signal processors (DSPs)). In this sense, one or more processors 110 may include any device configured to execute algorithms and / or instructions (e.g., program instructions stored in memory 108). In one embodiment, one or more processors 110 may be implemented as any computer system configured to execute a program configured to operate sensor assembly 100, as described throughout this disclosure. Furthermore, different subsystems of sensor assembly 100 or circuit breaker panel 120 may include processors or logic elements adapted to perform at least a portion of the steps described in this disclosure.

[0061] Memory 108 may be an example of a tangible computer-readable storage medium that provides storage functionality to store various data and / or program code associated with the operation of controller 106 and / or other components of the sensor assembly, such as software programs and / or code segments, or other data instructing controller 106 and / or other components to perform the functions described herein. Thus, memory 108 may store data, such as instruction programs for operating sensor assembly 100 or other components. It should be noted that while a single memory is described, various types and combinations of memory 108 may be employed (e.g., tangible non-transitory memory). Memory 108 may be integrated with the controller, may include a separate memory, or may be a combination of both. Some examples of memory 108 may include removable and non-removable memory components, such as programmable logic devices, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory (e.g., Secure Digital (SD) memory cards, mini SD memory cards, and / or micro SD memory cards), solid-state drive (SSD) memory, magnetic storage, optical storage, universal serial bus (USB) memory devices, hard disk storage, external storage, etc.

[0062] In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize that the aspects described herein, which can be implemented individually and / or collectively by various hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, can be considered as comprising various types of "circuit systems." Therefore, as used herein, "circuit" includes, but is not limited to, circuit systems having at least one discrete circuit, circuit systems having at least one integrated circuit, circuit systems having at least one application-specific integrated circuit, circuit systems forming general-purpose computing devices configured by computer programs (e.g., a general-purpose computer configured by a computer program that at least partially performs the processes and / or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program that at least partially performs the processes and / or devices described herein), circuit systems forming memory devices (e.g., in the form of random access memory), and / or circuit systems forming communication devices (e.g., modems, communication switches, or optoelectronic devices). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein can be implemented in analog or digital modes, or some combination thereof.

[0063] Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common in the art to describe devices and / or processes in the manner set forth herein, and to subsequently integrate such described devices and / or processes into data processing systems using engineering practice. That is, at least a portion of the devices and / or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system through a reasonable amount of experimentation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a typical data processing system generally includes one or more of the following: sensor supports, video display devices, memory (such as volatile and non-volatile memory), processors (such as microprocessors and digital signal processors), computing entities (such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications), one or more interactive devices (such as touchpads or screens), and / or a control system including feedback loops and control motors (e.g., feedback for sensing position and / or speed; control motors for moving and / or adjusting components and / or quantities). A typical data processing system can be implemented using any suitable commercially available components, such as those commonly found in data computing / communication and / or network computing / communication systems.

[0064] The topics described herein sometimes illustrate different components contained within or connected to different other components. It should be understood that the architectures depicted are merely exemplary, and many other architectures implementing the same functionality can actually be implemented. Conceptually, any arrangement of components implementing the same functionality is effectively “associated” to achieve the desired functionality. Therefore, any two components combined herein to achieve a particular function can be considered “associated” with each other to achieve the desired functionality, regardless of the architecture or intermediate components. Similarly, any two such associated components can also be considered “operably connected” or “operably coupled” to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components that can be suchly associated can also be considered “operably coupled” to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of components that can be operationally coupled include, but are not limited to, components that can be physically matched and / or physically interact and / or wirelessly interact and / or logically interact and / or logically interact.

[0065] While specific aspects of the subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made based on the teachings herein without departing from the subject matter and its broader aspects, and therefore, the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications within their scope, as well as the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sensor assembly for wiring in an electrical system, the sensor assembly comprising: Sensor support member, the sensor support member comprising: Base; A first wing, the first wing being coupled to a first side of the base; and A second wing is coupled to a second side of the base, wherein the base, the first wing, and the second wing form a cavity; At least one terminal block, the at least one terminal block being disposed within the cavity and communicatively coupled to the controller; and A plurality of current transformers, wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in an open configuration, one or more of the plurality of current transformers can be removably coupled to the at least one terminal block, and wherein when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in a closed configuration, the one or more of the plurality of current transformers cannot be removed from the at least one terminal block.

2. The sensor assembly according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the plurality of current transformers is an open-type current transformer.

3. The sensor assembly of claim 1 further includes a current transformer support column disposed within the cavity, the current transformer support column including a plurality of support members configured to receive a plurality of coils from the plurality of current transformers.

4. The sensor assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of support members include columns, wherein the columns can be inserted by the plurality of coils.

5. The sensor assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of support members include a bracket, wherein the plurality of coils are configured to be assembled within the bracket.

6. The sensor assembly according to claim 3, wherein, At least one of the first wing or the second wing is coupled to the base via a hinge, wherein the at least one of the first wing or the second wing is configured to pivot hingedly between the open configuration and the closed configuration via the hinge.

7. The sensor assembly of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of caps, wherein, At least one of the caps is configured to be coupled to a component of the sensor support and to cover at least one of the current transformers.

8. The sensor assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one terminal block includes a plurality of removable sensor segments, wherein at least one of the plurality of removable sensor segments accommodates a current transformer among the plurality of current transformers.

9. The sensor assembly of claim 1, further comprising the controller, wherein, The controller includes one or more processors configured to execute program instructions, the program instructions being configured to: Determine the current value from at least one of the plurality of current transformers; and The current value is transmitted to the output.

10. The sensor assembly of claim 9, further comprising a display configured to receive the output.

11. The sensor assembly of claim 10, wherein, The display is integrated into the sensor support.

12. The sensor assembly of claim 1 further includes a chain connector configured to be mechanically and electrically coupled to other sensor assemblies.

13. The sensor assembly of claim 1, further comprising a data terminal configured to transmit data from the sensor assembly to a data collector.

14. A circuit breaker panel, the circuit breaker panel comprising: Multiple circuit breakers; as well as Sensor assembly, the sensor assembly comprising: Sensor support member, the sensor support member comprising: Base; A first wing, the first wing being coupled to a first side of the base; and A second wing is coupled to a second side of the base, wherein the base, the first wing, and the second wing form a cavity; At least one terminal block, the at least one terminal block being disposed within the cavity and communicatively coupled to the controller; and A plurality of current transformers are communicatively coupled to a plurality of circuit breakers, wherein, when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in an open configuration, one or more of the plurality of current transformers are removably coupled to the at least one terminal block, and wherein, when the first wing and the second wing are arranged in a closed configuration, one or more of the plurality of current transformers cannot be removed from the at least one terminal block.

15. The circuit breaker panel according to claim 14, wherein, At least one of the plurality of current transformers is an open-type current transformer.

16. The circuit breaker panel according to claim 14, wherein, The sensor assembly includes a current transformer support column disposed within the cavity, the current transformer support column including a plurality of support members configured to receive a plurality of coils from the plurality of current transformers.

17. The circuit breaker panel according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of support members include columns, wherein the columns can be inserted by the plurality of coils.

18. The circuit breaker panel according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of support members include a bracket, wherein the plurality of coils are configured to be assembled within the bracket.

19. The circuit breaker panel according to claim 16, wherein, At least one of the first wing or the second wing is coupled to the base via a hinge, wherein the at least one of the first wing or the second wing is configured to pivot hingedly between the open configuration and the closed configuration via the hinge.

20. A method for replacing a defective current transformer from a sensor assembly, the method comprising: At least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly is moved from a first position to a second position, wherein moving at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly from the first position to the second position causes at least one of the first wing or the second wing of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly to be hingedly rotated from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Remove the first current transformer from the first connector of the terminal block of the sensor assembly; Insert the second current transformer into the first connector of the terminal block of the sensor assembly; and At least one of the first or second wings of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly is moved from the second position to the first position, wherein moving at least one of the first or second wings of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly from the second position to the first position causes at least one of the first or second wings of the sensor support member of the sensor assembly to hingedly rotate from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

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