Circuit Breaker Module Seating and Remote Reset Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit breaker technologies lack efficient mechanisms for remote control and reset, particularly in preventing unintended remote reset of tripped breakers, and do not provide clear tactile and auditory feedback for module seating.
Innovation Solution
A breaker assembly with a bus bar and module design featuring engagement features such as recesses and protrusions for secure seating, along with resilient conductors for tactile feedback, and a pivot mount for easy insertion and alignment, while allowing remote control and limiting remote reset of tripped breakers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If circuit breakers use solenoids for remote control, then remote tripping or resetting is enabled, but unintended remote reset of tripped breakers cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring the breaker to be in a specific physical state (non-tripped position) before remote reset can be executed. The control circuit is designed to detect the tripped state and prevent remote reset commands from actuating the solenoid when the breaker is tripped, thus preventing unintended remote reset while maintaining remote control functionality.
2Productivity
If circuit breakers are designed for easy assembly, then installation time is reduced, but clear tactile and auditory feedback for module seating may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating mechanical features that provide both tactile and auditory signals when the circuit breaker module is properly seated on the bus bar. The engagement mechanism includes resilient elements and geometric features that create a distinct click sound and tactile sensation upon correct installation, providing clear feedback to the installer without complicating the assembly process.
3Ease of operation
If circuit breakers allow remote reset functionality, then operational convenience is improved, but operational safety may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing the control circuit to preemptively prevent remote reset commands from executing when the breaker is in a tripped state. The system actively detects the tripped condition and blocks the remote reset signal path, countering the potential harmful effect of unintended remote reset before it can occur, thus maintaining both convenience and safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
A breaker assembly is disclosed comprising a breaker board having a bus bar including a first engagement feature and a breaker module having a line side connector including a second engagement feature engaging the first engagement feature to inhibit separation of the breaker module from the breaker board. The breaker board can further include a board mount having a first alignment feature, and the breaker module can further include a module mount engaging the board mount and having a second alignment feature engaging the first alignment feature. In another aspect of the invention, the breaker board includes board connections, the breaker module includes breaker connections (e.g., blind mate connections), and the board connections are engaged with the breaker connections. In another aspect of the invention, the breaker module includes a ledge that defines an undercut to facilitate prying of the breaker module from the breaker board.