Circuit Breaker Adapter for Non-Invasive Data Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for gathering data from circuit breakers require a technician and electrician to physically remove and disassemble the breaker, which is inefficient and unnecessary, especially for diagnostic purposes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system involving an adapter that attaches to the circuit breaker to actuate a test button, receive a light signal representing operational data, and process it for wireless transmission to an electronic device, allowing for remote data collection without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the circuit breaker is physically removed and disassembled to gather operational data, then complete operational data can be obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple personnel (technician and electrician)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical removal and disassembly with an optical communication system. The adapter uses a light sensor to receive light signals emitted by the circuit breaker's light source, which contain the operational data. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical intervention while maintaining data completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary device between the circuit breaker and the data collection system. It attaches to the circuit breaker's front face and facilitates communication through light signals, enabling data transfer without direct physical contact or disassembly. The adapter includes a light sensor that receives signals and an actuator that can press the test button when needed.
2Loss of information
If the circuit breaker is disassembled to read memory, then operational data can be accessed, but the circuit breaker must be scrapped afterward
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the destructive mechanical disassembly process with a non-invasive optical reading system. The adapter externally accesses the circuit breaker's memory through light signals without requiring physical opening or component removal, thereby preserving the circuit breaker for continued use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the operational data through light signal transmission rather than physically accessing the memory chips. The adapter receives and stores the data as electrical signals converted from light, producing a replicable digital copy that doesn't require destroying the original device.
3Loss of information
If technicians physically handle the circuit breaker for data collection, then operational data can be gathered, but technicians are exposed to dangerous voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter acts as an intermediary that interfaces with the circuit breaker at its front face, which is designed to be accessible and typically at ground potential. The light-based communication method allows data retrieval without requiring technicians to contact energized components, eliminating the electric shock hazard while maintaining data access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct physical contact with the circuit breaker with remote optical sensing. The light sensor in the adapter detects light signals emitted by the circuit breaker without requiring electrical connection or proximity to high-voltage areas, substituting a safe optical interface for dangerous electrical contact.
4Reliability
If the circuit breaker is removed and sent to the manufacturer, then comprehensive diagnostics can be performed, but the process is inefficient and requires multiple site visits
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a portable diagnostic intermediary that can be attached at the problem site and immediately begin collecting operational data through light signals. This eliminates the need to transport the circuit breaker to the manufacturer, allowing diagnostics to be performed on-site and significantly improving productivity while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through comprehensive light signal data capture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and safe data collection from circuit breakers without exposing technicians to dangerous voltages, allowing for faster diagnosis and reducing the need to scrap functional breakers, while maintaining operational integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The adapter includes a light sensor. The light source and the light sensor are configured to communicate such that the adapter receives operational data from the circuit breaker
Data Source
AI summary
A method for obtaining operational data from a circuit breaker includes: releasably attaching an adapter to a circuit breaker; actuating a test button on the circuit breaker using the adapter; moving a handle of the circuit breaker to an on position; initiating output of a light signal from the circuit breaker that is representative of operational data of the circuit breaker in response to the actuating and moving steps; and receiving the light signal at the adapter.