Electrical safety device for selectively providing power to device

Abstract

There is provided an electrical safety apparatus for selectively providing power to a device, comprising: a ground fault circuit breaker module comprising a current sensor configured to sense a change in current; and one or more light emitting diodes disposed on the housing. Wherein the one or more light emitting diodes generate a first timer signal or a second timer signal to indicate a configuration of the timer module based on the timer module according to the configuration; wherein the ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to: in response to receiving the first timer signal, generate a first signal for connecting an input line to the device; in response to receiving the second timer signal, generating a second signal for disconnecting the input line from the device; and in response to the current sensor sensing that the current change exceeds a predetermined threshold, disconnecting the input line from the device by opening one or more switches.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application with application number 202090001216.9, application date August 19, 2020, and invention name “Electrical safety device”. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to electrical safety systems and timing systems, and more particularly, to a ground fault circuit interrupter system with an integrated timer. Background Art

[0003] A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) system can be used as an electrical safety system. A GFCI system can use a residual current device to protect people and electronic devices from electric shock or overcurrent. More specifically, when a current flowing into the ground along an unexpected path (e.g., a path through the human body) is detected, the GFCI system disconnects the circuit. Moreover, the GFCI system can react quickly when an unexpected current is detected, thereby minimizing damage or injury to the electronic device or the user. Utility Model Content

[0004] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electrical safety device. The electrical safety device includes a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) module, a timer module, and a housing without a display screen. The GFCI module includes: a sensor configured to output a differential current signal according to the current flowing into and out of an electrical load; a ground fault circuit interrupter circuit electrically connected to the sensor; and one or more switches arranged on one or more communication paths for supplying power to the electrical load. The timer module is electrically connected to the GFCI module and is configured to generate a timer signal. In response to the differential current signal or the timer signal, the ground fault circuit interrupter circuit generates a drive signal that selectively opens or closes one or more switches. The housing surrounds the GFCI module and the timer module.

[0005] The embodiment of the present disclosure also provides a method for supplying power to a device. The method includes: when a current sensor in a ground fault circuit breaker module senses an unexpected change in current, disconnecting an input line from the device by opening one or more switches; indicating the configuration of a timer module by one or more indicating light emitting diodes arranged on a housing without a display screen, and generating a first timer signal or a second timer signal accordingly according to the configuration by the timer module; in response to receiving the first timer signal, generating a first signal for connecting the input line to the device by the ground fault circuit breaker module; and in response to receiving the second timer signal, generating a second signal for disconnecting the input line from the device by the ground fault circuit breaker module.

[0006] The embodiment of the present disclosure also provides an electrical safety device for selectively providing power to a device, comprising: a ground fault circuit breaker module, comprising a current sensor configured to sense current changes; and one or more light emitting diodes arranged on a housing. The one or more light emitting diodes generate a first timer signal or a second timer signal based on the configuration of the timer module to indicate the configuration of the timer module; the ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to: generate a first signal for connecting an input line to the device in response to receiving the first timer signal; generate a second signal for disconnecting the input line from the device in response to receiving the second timer signal; and disconnect the input line from the device by opening one or more switches in response to the current sensor sensing that the current change exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0007] The electrical safety device further includes a direct current converter configured to receive alternating current from the input line and output at least one direct current to the ground fault circuit breaker module and the timer module.

[0008] The electrical safety device also includes: a first DC converter, which is configured to receive a first alternating current from the input line and output the first direct current to the ground fault circuit breaker module; and a second DC converter, which is configured to receive a second alternating current from the input line and output the second direct current to the timer module.

[0009] The first timer signal indicates that the device should be powered at a particular time of day.

[0010] The second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at a specific time after the timer module is set.

[0011] The second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at a particular time of day.

[0012] The housing does not include a display screen.

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure also provide an electrical safety device for selectively providing power to an equipment, comprising: a safety device electrically connected to a pool pump, wherein the safety device includes: a ground fault circuit breaker module, including: a sensor configured to determine a current difference between a first transmission line and a second transmission line and output a differential current signal according to the current difference; and one or more switches arranged on one or more communication paths for supplying power to an electrical load. The electrical safety device also includes a timer module electrically connected to the ground fault circuit breaker module and configured to generate a timer signal; and a housing surrounding the ground fault circuit breaker module and the timer module. Wherein, the ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to generate a drive signal in response to the differential current signal or the timer signal to selectively open or close the one or more switches.

[0014] The timer signal includes a first timer signal and a second timer signal; wherein the ground-fault circuit breaker module is configured to generate a first signal for closing the one or more switches in response to receiving the first timer signal; and wherein the ground-fault circuit breaker module is configured to generate a second signal for opening the one or more switches in response to receiving the second timer signal.

[0015] The apparatus also includes at least one light emitting diode configured to provide an indication associated with the timer signal.

[0016] The at least one light emitting diode indicates an amount of time remaining before power delivery to the electrical load is disabled.

[0017] The safety device comprises at least one button, wherein the at least one button is configured to decrease the amount of time remaining by a time decrease amount in response to the at least one button being pressed, or the at least one button is configured to increase the amount of time remaining by a time increment in response to the at least one button being pressed.

[0018] The safety device further comprises a monitoring component, wherein the monitoring component is configured to automatically perform a test in predetermined time increments, wherein the test determines the responsiveness of the safety device to a ground fault.

[0019] The safety device further includes a monitoring component, wherein the monitoring component is configured to automatically perform a test based on power availability to load terminals of the ground fault circuit interrupter module, wherein the test determines the responsiveness of the safety device to a ground fault.

[0020] The housing does not include a display screen.

[0021] Additional features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be set forth in part in the following description and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. The features and advantages of the disclosed embodiments may be realized and obtained by the elements and combinations set forth in the claims. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative only and are not limitations of the disclosed embodiments as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 An exemplary electrical safety device having a timer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0023] Figure 2 An exemplary electrical safety device having a timer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0024] Figure 3 An exemplary housing for an electrical safety device having a timer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0025] Figure 4 Another exemplary housing for an electrical safety device having a timer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0026] Figure 5A Illustrated are some embodiments of the present disclosure for Figure 3 An alternative view of an exemplary housing for an electrical safety device with a timer.

[0027] Figure 5B Illustrated are some embodiments of the present disclosure for Figure 4 An alternative view of an exemplary housing for an electrical safety device with a timer.

[0028] Figure 6 An exemplary pool pump with an integrated electrical safety device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0029] Figure 7 An exemplary light string with an integrated electrical safety device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0030] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8H Exemplary electrical safety device designs according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The following description refers to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals in different drawings represent the same or similar elements unless otherwise specified. The implementations set forth in the following description of exemplary embodiments do not represent all implementations consistent with the present disclosure. Instead, they are merely examples of devices and methods consistent with aspects related to the present disclosure as recorded in the appended claims.

[0032] Although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in detail as electrical safety systems (e.g., ground fault circuit interrupter ("GFCI") systems) with integrated timers, it should be understood that other embodiments are contemplated, such as embodiments that employ other types of electrical safety systems, residual current devices, GFCI systems, and / or timers. Therefore, the present disclosure should not limit its scope to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or examples. Other embodiments may be practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0033] To facilitate understanding of the principles and features of the methods and devices disclosed in the present disclosure, various illustrative embodiments are discussed below. In particular, various embodiments of the present disclosure are described as GFCI systems with integrated timers. However, some aspects of the present disclosure may be applicable to other contexts, and embodiments employing these aspects may be envisioned. For example, some aspects of the present disclosure may be applicable to various types of electrical safety systems, such as various types of electrical safety switches. Therefore, where the terms "GFCI," "GFCI system," "residual current device," "timer," and related terms are used throughout the present disclosure, it should be understood that other devices, entities, objects, or activities may be applied in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] As described above, existing electrical safety systems and timers are manufactured and sold separately. Therefore, consumers must purchase multiple devices and install these devices together to obtain an electrical safety system with a timer. In addition to the additional cost, the use of multiple devices may cause the electrical system to be overly complicated and may increase the risk of electrical failure and / or electric shock during use.

[0035] refer to Figure 1 , which illustrates an exemplary electrical safety device 100 with an integrated timer 150 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1As shown, the electrical safety device 100 includes a power input 110, a power output 120, a power line 130 for achieving electrical communication between the power input 110 and the power output 120, a GFCI module 140, a timer 150, and power converters 160 and 170. In some embodiments, the GFCI module 140 includes a sensor 142, a GFCI control circuit 144, a solenoid 146, and switches 148a, 148b. The timer 150 includes a timer circuit 152 and a selection mechanism 154. In some embodiments, the timer circuit 152 can be a digital timer circuit. The power converters 160 and 170 can be implemented by various AC / DC converters (ADCs), such as a buck-type AC / DC converter or a buck-boost AC / DC converter.

[0036] The power input 110 to the electrical safety device 100 may be an electrical input, such as an AC input line, which may be electrically connected to a power plant, a generator, a battery, or any other power supply device.

[0037] One or more transmission lines 130 are electrically connected between the power input 110 and the power output 120. In some embodiments, the one or more transmission lines 130 may include a "hot" or live connection line (e.g., transmission line 132) and a neutral connection line (e.g., transmission line 134). The transmission lines 132, 134 enable electrical communication between the power input 110 and the power output 120 (e.g., a load device). In other words, power can flow from the power input 110 to the power output 120 via the transmission line 132, and flow back from the power output 120 to the power input 110 via the transmission line 134, thereby completing the AC power flow in the electrical safety device 100.

[0038] In some embodiments, the power output 120 may be connected to a load device, such as an electric device (eg, an electric pump, a motor, etc.).

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, one or more switches 148a, 148b are arranged between the power transmission line 130 connecting the power input 110 and the power output 120. The switches 148a, 148b are configured to control (e.g., enable or disable) the communication path between the power input 110 and the power output 120. In some embodiments, in response to corresponding one or more enable control signals, the switches 148a, 148b can be closed to enable the communication path so that electricity can flow between the power input 110 and the power output 120. On the other hand, in response to corresponding one or more disable control signals, the switches 148a, 148b can be opened to prevent power transmission between the power input 110 and the power output 120. Figure 1As shown, in some designs, the first switch 148a may be electrically coupled to the transmission line 132, and the second switch 148b may be electrically coupled to the transmission line 134, but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0040] In some cases, undesirable conditions may occur that interfere with the flow of power in the electrical safety device 100. For example, a ground fault may occur when current flows into the ground through an external object. This may occur, for example, when a person touches an exposed electrical component and is shocked, causing current to pass through the person and enter the ground. This may also occur when a load (or electrically powered equipment) is unexpectedly electrically connected to the ground via water and / or other conductive paths.

[0041] In the event that a person is electrocuted, or in the event that power flows unintentionally and unexpectedly into the ground, as described above, the electrical safety device 100 can achieve a protective function of stopping the flow of power in the circuit.

[0042] In particular, the electrical safety device 100 can be configured to sense changes in the current flowing through the transmission line 130 when an unexpected situation occurs. These changes in current are generally caused by the flow of power directed into the ground. More specifically, since a portion or all of the power flows from the power input 110 into the ground, the current flowing back from the load to the power input 110 is reduced. Therefore, there is a difference between the amount of current flowing to the load and the amount of current flowing back from the load. By sensing this difference in current, the electrical safety device 100 can detect abnormal operation and stop the flow of power toward the load. Therefore, the electrical safety device 100 can prevent the circuit from providing a prolonged electric shock.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the sensor 142 in the GFCI module 140 can be a sensing coil or other differential circuit transformer. The sensor 142 can be located around the transmission lines 132, 134 and is configured to react in response to a difference in the amount of current flowing through the transmission line 132 and the transmission line 134. In normal operation, in response to a zero or negligible difference between the currents flowing through the transmission lines 132, 134, the sensor 142 generates no signal, a negligible signal, or a "no error" type signal to the GFCI control circuit 144.

[0044] When the flow of power on the power output 120 is disturbed, for example, when a person is electrocuted, the current difference between the transmission line 132 and the transmission line 134 causes the sensor 142 to output an increased signal or an "error" type signal to the GFCI control circuit 144. The GFCI control circuit 144 can receive the signal and determine whether the current difference exceeds a predetermined threshold value accordingly. In response to the determination that the current difference exceeds the threshold value, the GFCI control circuit 144 controls one or more of the switches 148a, 148b to be disconnected, which stops the flow of power through the circuit. In some embodiments, for example, the GFCI control circuit 144 can output a drive signal to the solenoid 146 so that the solenoid 146 disconnects one or more of the switches 148a, 148b on the transmission lines 132 and 134, respectively. In this way, the GFCI module 140 is able to stop the flow of power and prevent people or objects from being electrocuted.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the timer 150 can be integrated into the electrical safety device 100, which provides a simpler, safer and more cost-effective design than traditional systems. In some embodiments, the timer 150 can provide one or more command signals Sig_t to the GFCI module 140, such as an "open" signal, a "closed" signal, or both. In particular, the timer 150 can send an "open" signal or a "closed" signal to the GFCI module 140 via one or more wired or wireless communications. For example, in some embodiments, the GFCI module 140 and the timer 150 are coupled by wired communication, while in some other embodiments, the timer 150 includes a wireless transmitter or transceiver that sends the command signal Sig_t, and the GFCI module 140 includes a corresponding wireless receiver or transceiver that receives the command signal Sig_t. In particular, the command signal Sig_t can be sent by the timer circuit 152 in the timer 150 and received by the GFCI control circuit 144.

[0046] In some embodiments, the "open" signal may cause the GFCI module 140 to prevent power from flowing from the power input 110 to the power output 120. More specifically, the "open" signal may cause the GFCI module 140 to disconnect one or more of the switches 148a, 148b on the transmission line 132 and / or the transmission line 134, thereby opening the circuit and preventing power from flowing through the circuit. Similarly, in some embodiments, the "close" signal may cause the electrical safety device 100 to begin providing power to the power output 120. In particular, the "close" signal may cause the GFCI module 140 to close one or more of the switches 148a, 148b on the transmission line 132 and / or the transmission line 134. In this way, the timer circuit 152 may control, via the GFCI module 140, whether the power input 110 may provide power through the transmission lines 132, 134 toward and through the power output 120.

[0047] In some embodiments, timer circuit 152 can provide one or more command signals Sig_t, such as an "open" or "close" signal, to another solenoid or other known device (not shown) to open or close one or more additional switches (not shown) on transmission line 132 and / or transmission line 134. Thus, when power input 110 provides power to power output 120 independently of GFCI module 140, timer 150 can independently enable or disable power transmission.

[0048] In some embodiments, the selection mechanism 154 provides an interface for the user to adjust the configuration or setting of the timer 150. For example, the selection mechanism 154 can be implemented by a selection switch, a dial, a button, a touch pad, a click wheel, etc. that can provide the user with one or more options for setting the timer 150. In some embodiments, for example, the selection mechanism 154 can enable the user to set the timer 150 so that the timer circuit 152 outputs an "open" signal, a "closed" signal, or both at a specified time or times.

[0049] In some embodiments, the specified time or times can be defined in one or more ways. For example, the specified time can be an amount of time in the future. In other words, the user can use the selection mechanism 154 to set the timer circuit 152 to output an "open" signal or a "closed" signal to the GFCI module 140 in a future amount of time (e.g., in 1 minute, 5 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, or any other amount of time).

[0050] In some embodiments, the user can use the selection mechanism 154 to set the timer circuit 152 to output one or more "open" signals or "closed" signals at multiple times. Thus, the user can set the timer 150 to provide power to the electrical device connected to the power output 120 at a certain time in the future, and terminate the power supply later.

[0051] In some embodiments, the specified time can be a specific time point. For example, the user can use the selection mechanism 154 to program the timer circuit 152 to output a "disconnect" command signal or a "close" command signal at one or more specific times (e.g., at 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 9:45 p.m., 12:01 a.m., or at any other time). Therefore, the timer 150 can be configured to disconnect or close one or more of the switches 148a, 148b at one or more predetermined times of the day, thereby providing power to an electrical device (e.g., a device connected to the power output 120) or preventing power from flowing to the electrical device. Therefore, in some embodiments, the timer 150 may include a clock or other known device that records or receives a current time value.

[0052] In some embodiments, the specified time can be an operating time. More specifically, the user can use the selection mechanism 154 to set the timer circuit 152 so that power is delivered to the electrical device (e.g., a device connected to the power output 120) within the specified time. In some embodiments, the timer 150 can be programmed to provide power to the electrical device within the same specified amount of time and during the same time, every day, or on a day selected by the user. In some embodiments, for example, the user can use the selection mechanism 154 to select a specified time, that is, the amount of time to provide power to the electrical device, such as 15 minutes or 8 hours. After selecting a certain amount of time, the timer circuit 152 can send a "closed" signal to provide power to the electrical device. When the specified time has passed and the electrical device has therefore received power for the desired amount of time, the timer circuit 152 can send a "disconnected" signal to terminate the flow of power to the electrical device. In some embodiments, the timer circuit 152 can send "closed" and "disconnected" signals at the same time every day or on a day selected by the user. In this way, an electrical device (e.g., a pool pump) can be "turned on" or run at the same time every day. In some embodiments, when power is not provided to the electrical safety device 100 (for example, but not limited to, when the electrical safety device 100 is unplugged from an outlet), the designated time may be reset to a factory default value, such as 5 minutes or 6 hours.

[0053] In some embodiments, the maximum operating time can be preset to comply with various standards or requirements, such as energy conservation standards or safety standards. For example, in some embodiments, the maximum operating time can be set to 10 hours. Therefore, in the default setting, the timer circuit 152 can be configured to provide a corresponding signal to disable power transmission after 10 hours of operation. In addition, if the electrical safety device 100 detects that the maximum operating time has been reached, the timer circuit 152 can automatically send a "disconnect" signal to disable power transmission in order to comply with the standard or requirement.

[0054] In some embodiments, as described above, the selection mechanism 154 may include one or more buttons, such as a "set" button. A single press on a button will energize the timer and / or increase (or decrease) a predetermined amount of time, such as 5 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours, for a specified time. Multiple presses on a button can increase (or decrease) additional time for a specified time each time the button is pressed. In some embodiments, keeping a button pressed can increase additional time to a specified time within each increment or decrement of the time when the button is kept. In some embodiments, for example, 5 minutes can be added to a specified time within each second that the button is kept pressed. In this way, the timer 150 can be set in different operating modes. In some operating modes, the specified time is a future amount of time. In some other operating modes, the specified time is a specific time of the day. In other operating modes, the specified time is the operating time of an electrical device.

[0055] Note that in various embodiments, the timer 150 and the electrical safety device 100 can be implemented without any visual display panel or display screen. That is, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device 100 does not include any display screen for indicating a specified time or mode. For example, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device 100 does not provide any liquid crystal display (LCD) or other active screen for displaying information to the user. By eliminating the display screen, the size and manufacturing cost of the electrical safety device 100 can be reduced. In addition, without any display screen, the design of the electrical safety device 100 can be more flexible.

[0056] In some embodiments, instead of using a display screen, the electrical safety device 100 may include a plurality of indicator light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to indicate different operation modes or designated times through light emission patterns of the indicator LEDs.

[0057] In some embodiments, components of GFCI module 140 and timer 150 may be powered by power directed through one or more AC-DC power converters 160 and 170. Figure 1 As shown, for example, GFCI control circuit 144 may be powered by power directed through first AC-DC power converter 160 , and timer 150 may be powered by power directed through second AC-DC power converter 170 .

[0058] refer to Figure 2 , which illustrates an exemplary electrical safety device 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, in some other embodiments, the GFCI module 140 and the timer 150 may be powered by power directed through a single AC-DC converter 210 connected to both the GFCI module 140 and the timer 150 .

[0059] refer to Figure 3 , which illustrates an exemplary electrical safety device 300 having a housing 310 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the GFCI module 140 and the timer 150 can be assembled within the housing 310. In some embodiments, the housing 310 can have one or more buttons 370 that serve as the selection mechanism 154 and indicator LEDs 1-LED4 attached to the outside of the housing 310. Figure 3 As shown, numbers or text may be printed or provided adjacent to indicator LED1 - LED4 to indicate the setting or time value associated with the respective LED on the exterior of housing 310 .

[0060] For example, in Figure 3 , indicating LED1-LED4 represent 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours and 8 hours respectively. When the electrical safety device 300 is configured at its default setting of 10 hours, the indicating LEDs (LED2 and LED4) are turned on, while the indicating LEDs (LED1 and LED3) are turned off to indicate that the specified time is 10 hours. Each time the user presses the button 370, the specified time can be reduced by 1 hour. When the specified time reaches zero, it automatically switches back to the default setting of 10 hours. For example, the user can set the timer circuit 152 to have an operating time of 4 hours by pressing the button 370 six times in a row, so that the specified time is reduced by 6 hours from the default setting of 10 hours. With this configuration, the indicating LED (LED3) is turned on, the indicating LEDs (LED1, LED2 and LED4) are turned off to indicate that the specified time is 4 hours, and power is delivered to the load connected to the power output 120 for 4 hours. In some other embodiments, the electrical safety device 300 can be configured at its default setting of 1 hour, where only the indicating LED (LED1) is turned on, and for each press of the user, the specified time increases by 1 hour. When the specified time reaches its preset maximum value, it automatically switches back to the default setting of 1 hour. In this case, the user can set the timer circuit 152 to have the same operating time of 4 hours by pressing the button 370 three times in a row, so that the specified time increases by 3 hours from the default setting of 1 hour. Similarly, the indicator LED (LED3) is turned on, and the indicator LEDs (LED1, LED2 and LED4) are turned off.

[0061] Note that although Figure 3 In the embodiment, the numbers can be expressed by the indicator LEDs 1-4 in a binary number system, but a different number system based on N can also be used. In addition, the indicator LEDs (LED1-LED4) can also be used to simply express four different operating modes or four different preset designated times. The number of indicator LEDs attached to the outside of the housing 310 in the electrical safety device 300 can be modified based on different applications or models, so Figure 3 The illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not meant to limit the present disclosure.

[0062] In addition, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device 300 may include an indicator light 320, a reset switch 330, and a test switch 340 located on the exterior of the housing 310. The indicator light 320 may be configured to light up when power is supplied to the power output 120, or it may be configured to light up when power transmission to the power output 120 is disabled. In some embodiments, the user can interact with the electrical safety device 300 without any visual interaction. For example, the user can feel the position of the button 370 and / or other components (e.g., the reset switch 330 and the test switch 340) to perform an operation. In some embodiments, the reset switch 330, the test switch 340, and / or the button 370 may provide tactile feedback with a mechanical (or electrical) mechanism in response to the user's operation. For example, when the user executes a command on any one of the reset switch 330, the test switch 340, or the button 370, the switch or button may respond by generating a slight vibration. In some embodiments, the electrical safety device 300 may also generate a sound (e.g., a beep) when the switch or button is activated. The reset switch 330 can be configured to reset the electrical safety device 100 by closing the switches 148a, 148b after the GFCI control circuit 144 has triggered the solenoid 146 to pass current to the power output 120. The test switch 340 can be configured to check whether the solenoid 146 is functioning properly by triggering the solenoid 146 to open the switches 148a, 148b. After pressing the test switch 340 and ensuring that the solenoid 146 is functioning, the user can press the reset switch 330 to close the switches 148a, 148b, thereby instructing the GFCI control circuit 144 to supply power to the power output 120 again.

[0063] In some embodiments, housing 310 can enclose load terminals 350. Load terminals 350 can be electrically coupled to the electrical output of GFCI module 140 and to power output 120. In some embodiments, wires can pass through housing outlet 360 and connect power output 120 to terminals 350. In some other embodiments, power output 120 can be wired directly to GFCI module 140.

[0064] refer to Figure 4 , which illustrates another exemplary housing 310 for an electrical safety device 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4As shown, in some other embodiments, the housing 310 can have a dial or knob 470 that serves as the selection mechanism 154, wherein a circle of numbers or text is printed or provided around the dial or knob 470 to indicate the current setting on the exterior of the housing 310. The user can simply rotate the dial or knob 470 to set the desired time. For example, by operating the dial or knob 470 to align the indicator arrow on the dial or knob 470 with the number "2" printed on the housing 310, the user can set the timer circuit 152 to have an operating time of 2 hours so that power is delivered to the load connected to the power output 120 for 2 hours. In some embodiments, the selection mechanism 154 may include multiple control dials and / or adjustment knobs for different configurations, or may include one or more buttons 370 and one or more dials or one or more knobs 470 for different configurations. It should be understood that although in Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the electrical safety device 300 or 400 , components for interacting with a user are arranged on the front surface of the housing 310 , but in some other examples, some or all of these components may be placed on the side of the electrical safety device 300 or 400 .

[0065] The electrical safety device 300 or 400 described above can implement automatic monitoring and can continuously monitor the functionality and accuracy of the GFCI function to ensure that the GFCI circuit works correctly until the service life is reached. In particular, the automatic monitoring function allows the electrical safety device 300 or 400 to be periodically and automatically tested for its ability to respond to ground faults. This test can be performed without closing the circuit breaker contacts and will not impair the ability of the GFCI circuit to respond to actual ground faults or grounded neutral faults. Specifically, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device 300 or 400 performs an automatic test each time power becomes available to one or more load terminals or one or more line terminals of a properly wired GFCI. The automatic test can be initiated within a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) of power availability at the line or load terminal and can be repeated according to a predetermined time period (e.g., at least every three hours).

[0066] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The following are examples of some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3 and Figure 4 An alternative view of the housing 310 of the electrical safety devices 300 and 400 in FIG. Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, in some embodiments, plug 510 can be integrated into housing 310 and electrically coupled to power input 110, which allows power input 110 to be connected to an electrical outlet. In some embodiments, housing 310 can include a cover 520 to cover the electrical connection at terminal 350. Cover 520 can be fixed by various means, including screws, hinges, or adhesives.

[0067] In some embodiments, the housing 310 can have an electrical cord having a plug electrically coupled to the power input 110 exiting therefrom. In some applications, a plug connected to the electrical cord, as opposed to being integrated into the housing 310, can be convenient in various situations. For example, if an electrical outlet is located in an inconvenient location, such a design may be suitable for use. By having a plug with an electrical cord, the housing 310 can be located in a more convenient location, which can assist the user in activating a timer or GCFI function. In some embodiments, an electrical outlet electrically coupled to the output of the GFCI module 140 is arranged on the housing 310 to allow the power output 120 to be plugged into the housing 310. In some applications, such an arrangement can allow the electrical safety device 100 to be used with accessories that have been purchased separately, such as a pump or Christmas lights. Alternatively, as Figure 6 For example, the electrical safety device 300 can be formed integrally with an electrical device (e.g., a pump 600 for a swimming pool). Figure 7 By way of example, the electrical safety device 300 may also be formed integrally with the light string 700. For example, the light string 700 may be Christmas lights or any other indoor or outdoor holiday lighting products, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0068] In some embodiments, as described above, the selection mechanism 154 may be implemented by various designs. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8H An exemplary electrical safety device design according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown, electrical safety devices 800a-800h may include different types of selection devices to meet the actual needs in different applications or products. For example, Fig. 8A An electrical safety device 800a using a recessed wheel as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated. Figure 8B An electrical safety device 800 b using a rotary knob as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated. Figure 8C An electrical safety device 800c is illustrated that uses a scrubber switch as the selection mechanism 154. The electrical safety devices 800a-800c may use various analog displays to indicate the current time setting, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0069] Fig.8D An electrical safety device 800d using a display framed by a knob as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated. Fig. 8EAn electrical safety device 800 e using a rocker switch as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated. Fig.8F An electrical safety device 800 f using a knob as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated. Figure 8G An electrical safety device 800g using a side rotating wheel as the selection mechanism 154 is illustrated.

[0070] The electrical safety devices 800d-800g may use various digital displays to indicate the current time setting, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0071] Figure 8H An electrical safety device 800h without a rope is illustrated. Figure 8H As shown, the electrical safety device 800h can be a stand-alone unit including a GFCI module and a timer. The electrical safety device 800h can provide one or more power sockets on its housing so that a user can connect any electrical device to the power supply via the electrical safety device 800h to enable the timer function and the GFCI protection function. For example, the electrical safety device 800h can be connected to several household items, such as an electric lawn mower, a water fountain, a power tool, etc.

[0072] It should be understood that FIG. 8A to FIG. 8H The illustrated designs are examples only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Certain adaptations and / or modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device may be controlled by an electrical device that is communicatively coupled to the electrical safety device via wireless communication (e.g., 4G or 5G cellular connection, WIFI, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for Wi-Fi debugging, etc.). In some embodiments, the electrical safety device and the control device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, wearable device, etc.) may be connected to a server, a private cloud, or a public cloud via wireless communication so that the control device may be used as a digital display. Therefore, since configuration commands may be sent from the control device, the electrical safety device may be implemented without a physical display panel or even without an input interface. As part of an integrated Internet of Things (IoT) system, an instant alert may also be sent by the electrical safety device to a user's smartphone, tablet, or wearable device via a software application to notify the user when an abnormal state (e.g., a ground fault) is detected.

[0073] As described above, embodiments of the present disclosure provide several capabilities. In some embodiments, for example, a user can set a timer 150 to turn an electrical device on or off at a specified time. In some embodiments, for example, the present disclosure can be configured to turn on a pool pump at a first time and turn off the pump at a second time. In some embodiments, the present disclosure can be configured to turn on Christmas lights at a first time and turn off the lights at a second time. Therefore, because the timer is integrated into the electrical safety device 100 of the pool pump or Christmas lights, customers do not need to purchase a separate timer. As described above, in some embodiments, the electrical safety device 100 does not provide any liquid crystal display (LCD) or other active screen to display timer information. Therefore, by eliminating the display screen, the size and manufacturing cost of the electrical safety device 100 can be reduced, and the design of the electrical safety device 100 can be more flexible.

[0074] The following terms may be used to further describe the embodiments:

[0075] 1. An electrical safety device, comprising:

[0076] A ground fault circuit breaker module comprising:

[0077] a sensor configured to output a differential current signal based on current flowing into and out of the electrical load;

[0078] a ground fault circuit interrupter circuit in electrical communication with the sensor; and

[0079] one or more switches disposed on one or more communication paths for supplying power to an electrical load; and

[0080] a timer module in electrical communication with the ground fault circuit breaker module and configured to generate a timer signal, wherein the ground fault circuit breaker circuit generates a drive signal to selectively open or close one or more switches in response to the differential current signal or the timer signal; and

[0081] A housing without a display screen surrounds the ground fault circuit interrupter module and the timer module.

[0082] 2. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein the timer module comprises:

[0083] a timer circuit configured to generate a timer signal; and

[0084] A selection mechanism is in electrical communication with the timer circuit.

[0085] 3. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein the selection mechanism comprises one or more buttons, one or more dials, one or more knobs, one or more wheels, one or more switches, or any combination thereof.

[0086] 4. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, further comprising:

[0087] A plurality of light emitting diodes are attached to the housing and are configured to provide an indication associated with the timer signal.

[0088] 5. An electrical safety device according to clause 4, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes indicate an amount of time remaining before power transmission to the electrical load is disabled.

[0089] 6. An electrical safety device according to clause 4, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes indicate the time of day when power delivery to the electrical load is disabled.

[0090] 7. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, further comprising:

[0091] One or more power converters are in electrical communication with a power input of the electrical safety device and one or more of the ground fault circuit interrupter module and the timer module.

[0092] 8. An electrical safety device according to clause 7, wherein the one or more power converters include a first AC to DC converter in electrical communication with the input line and the ground fault circuit interrupter module and a second AC to DC converter in electrical communication with the input line and the timer module.

[0093] 9. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein the housing further comprises an electrical plug for connecting to an electrical socket.

[0094] 10. The electrical safety device of clause 9, wherein the housing further comprises an electrical socket in electrical communication with a power output of the electrical safety device.

[0095] 11. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein the electrical safety device is integrated into a pump for a swimming pool.

[0096] 12. An electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein the electrical safety device is integrated into a light string.

[0097] 13. An electrical safety system according to clause 1, wherein the ground fault circuit interrupter module further comprises a solenoid for operating one or more switches in response to a drive signal generated by the ground fault circuit interrupter circuit, and the ground fault circuit interrupter module is configured to generate a drive signal to cause the solenoid to open the one or more switches in response to receiving a differential current signal from the sensor indicating an unexpected change in current.

[0098] 14. The electrical safety device according to clause 1, wherein a maximum operating time is preset in the timer module, and the timer circuit is configured to provide a termination signal to disable power transmission to the electrical load when the maximum operating time is reached.

[0099] 15. A method for providing power to a device, comprising:

[0100] disconnecting the input line from the device by opening one or more switches when a current sensor in the ground fault circuit interrupter module senses an undesirable change in current;

[0101] Indicating the configuration of the timer module by one or more indicating light emitting diodes arranged on the housing without a display screen, and generating a first timer signal or a second timer signal accordingly by the timer module according to the configuration;

[0102] generating, by the ground fault circuit interrupter module, a first signal for connecting the input line to the device in response to receiving the first timer signal; and

[0103] In response to receiving the second timer signal, a second signal for disconnecting the input line from the device is generated by the ground fault circuit interrupter module.

[0104] 16. The method according to clause 15, further comprising:

[0105] An AC to DC converter is provided that is connected to the input line and is in electrical communication with the ground fault circuit interrupter module and the timer module.

[0106] 17. The method according to clause 15, further comprising:

[0107] providing a first AC to DC converter connected to the input line and in electrical communication with the ground fault circuit interrupter module; and

[0108] A second AC to DC converter is provided, connected to the input line and in electrical communication with the timer module.

[0109] 18. The method of clause 15, wherein the second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at a specific time after the timer module is set.

[0110] 19. The method of clause 15, wherein the first timer signal indicates that the device should be powered at a particular time of day.

[0111] 20. The method of clause 15, wherein the second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at certain times of the day.

[0112] Embodiments herein include devices, systems, methods, and tangible non-transient computer-readable media. The method may be performed, for example, by at least one processor receiving instructions from a tangible non-transient computer-readable storage medium. Similarly, an electrical safety system according to the present disclosure may include at least one processor and a memory, and the memory may be a tangible non-transient computer-readable storage medium. As used herein, a tangible non-transient computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by at least one processor may be stored. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drive, CD ROM, DVD, flash drive, optical disk, register, cache, and any other known physical storage medium. For example, the singular terms "memory" and "computer-readable storage medium" may additionally refer to multiple structures, such as multiple memories or computer-readable storage media. As mentioned herein, "memory" may include any type of computer-readable storage medium, unless otherwise specified. The computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by at least one processor, including instructions for causing the processor to perform steps or stages according to the embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, one or more computer-readable storage media may be used to implement the computer-implemented method.The term "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals.

[0113] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless specifically stated otherwise or not feasible. For example, reference to a component is intended to include compositions of a plurality of components. Reference to a composition containing "an" ingredient is intended to include additional ingredients in addition to the mentioned ingredient.

[0114] Furthermore, in describing the exemplary embodiments, terminology will be employed for the sake of clarity. Each term is intended to contemplate its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

[0115] Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and / or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value.

[0116] "Comprising" or "containing" or "including" means that at least the stated compound, element, particle or method step is present in the composition, article or method, but does not exclude the presence of other compounds, materials, particles, method steps, even if such other compounds, materials, particles, method steps have the same function as stated.

[0117] It is also to be understood that the reference to one or more method steps does not exclude the presence of additional method steps or intervening method steps between those steps specifically mentioned. Similarly, it is also to be understood that the reference to one or more components in a composition does not exclude the presence of additional components other than those specifically mentioned.

[0118] The materials described as constituting the various elements of the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable materials that perform the same or similar functions as the materials described herein are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Such other materials not described herein may include, but are not limited to, materials developed after the time of development of the present disclosure, for example.

[0119] Several features of the present disclosure are defined as being electrically connected to other features of the present disclosure. As used herein, if element A and element B are coupled to each other so that current can be transmitted along a communication path from element A to element B or from element B to element A, element A is electrically connected to element B. Further, the electrical communication between two elements can be direct or indirect. As used herein, if the communication path between element A and element B has a resistance of approximately zero ohms, element A is directly electrically connected to element B. As used herein, if the communication path between element A and element B has a resistance greater than approximately zero ohms, element A is indirectly electrically connected to element B. Moreover, whenever any two features of the present disclosure are said to be electrically connected to each other, the two features can be electrically connected via an electrical connection element. As used herein and as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, an electrical connection element can be an electrical connection element known in the art or developed later, including but not limited to a combination of electrical conductors, electrical components (e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.), circuits, solders, etc. Further, an electrical connection element can provide direct or indirect electrical communication between two elements.

[0120] As used herein, unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "or" includes all possible combinations unless not feasible. For example, if it is stated that a system or module may include A or B, then unless specifically stated otherwise or not feasible, the system or module may include A, or B, or A and B. As a second example, if it is stated that a system or module may include A, B, or C, then unless specifically stated otherwise or not feasible, the system or module may include A, or B, or C, or A and B, or A and C, or B and C, or A and B and C.

[0121] In the foregoing description, certain systems and methods related to electrical safety systems and timers have been described with reference to many specific details that may vary with implementation. Certain adaptations and modifications may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the systems, methods, and equivalents thereof as set forth in the claims filed in subsequent non-provisional applications. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure disclosed herein. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered to limit the claims.

[0122] Therefore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concepts upon which the present application and claims are based can be used as a basis for designing other devices, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the embodiments and claims set forth in the present application. The description and examples are intended to be considered exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure being indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electrical safety device for selectively supplying power to a device, comprising: A ground fault circuit interrupter module including a current sensor configured to sense a change in current; and one or more light emitting diodes disposed on the housing, wherein the one or more light emitting diodes generate a first timer signal or a second timer signal based on the timer module generating a first timer signal or a second timer signal according to the configuration to indicate the configuration of the timer module; Wherein the ground fault circuit interrupter module is configured as: generating, in response to receiving the first timer signal, a first signal for connecting an input line to the device; generating, in response to receiving the second timer signal, a second signal for disconnecting the input line from the device; and In response to the current sensor sensing that the current change exceeds a predetermined threshold, the input line is disconnected from the device by opening one or more switches.

2. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, further comprising: A DC converter is configured to receive AC power from the input line and output at least one DC power to the ground fault circuit interrupter module and the timer module.

3. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first DC converter configured to receive a first AC power from the input line and output a first DC power to the ground fault circuit interrupter module; and The second DC converter is configured to receive a second AC power from the input line and output a second DC power to the timer module.

4. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, wherein: The first timer signal indicates that the device should be powered at a particular time of day.

5. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, wherein: The second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at a specific time after the timer module is set.

6. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, wherein: The second timer signal indicates that the device should not be powered at a particular time of day.

7. The electrical safety device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing does not include a display screen.

8. An electrical safety device for selectively supplying power to a device, comprising: a safety device in electrical communication with the pool pump, wherein the safety device comprises: Ground fault circuit interrupter module, comprising: a sensor configured to determine a current difference between the first transmission line and the second transmission line and output a differential current signal based on the current difference; and one or more switches arranged on the one or more communication paths for supplying power to the electrical load; a timer module in electrical communication with the ground fault circuit interrupter module and configured to generate a timer signal; and a housing enclosing the ground fault circuit breaker module and the timer module; The ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to generate a drive signal in response to the differential current signal or the timer signal to selectively open or close the one or more switches.

9. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The timer signal includes a first timer signal and a second timer signal; wherein the ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to, in response to receiving the first timer signal, generate a first signal for closing the one or more switches; and The ground fault circuit breaker module is configured to generate a second signal for opening the one or more switches in response to receiving the second timer signal.

10. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The apparatus also includes at least one light emitting diode configured to provide an indication associated with the timer signal.

11. The electrical safety device according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one light emitting diode indicates an amount of time remaining before power delivery to the electrical load is disabled.

12. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The safety device comprises at least one button, wherein the at least one button is configured to decrease the amount of time remaining by a time decrease amount in response to the at least one button being pressed, or the at least one button is configured to increase the amount of time remaining by a time increment in response to the at least one button being pressed.

13. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The safety device further comprises a monitoring component, wherein the monitoring component is configured to automatically perform a test in predetermined time increments, wherein the test determines the responsiveness of the safety device to a ground fault.

14. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The safety device further includes a monitoring component, wherein the monitoring component is configured to automatically perform a test based on power availability to load terminals of the ground fault circuit interrupter module, wherein the test determines the responsiveness of the safety device to a ground fault.

15. The electrical safety device according to claim 8, wherein: The housing does not include a display screen.

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