GFCI Reset Button Light Pipe for Clear Status Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices do not provide a clear visual indication of the state of their separable contacts, making it difficult to discern whether they are open or closed.
Innovation Solution
A GFCI receptacle with a reset button coupled to a light pipe and an LED, where the color/state of the LED conveys the reset status of the GFCI circuit, ensuring the light pipe and reset button remain securely coupled during assembly and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a light pipe and LED are added to indicate reset status, then visual indication clarity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe is integrated with the reset button assembly, combining the indication function with the existing reset mechanism. The light pipe is positioned to extend from the front surface of the reset button, merging two functional elements (status indication and reset operation) into a single integrated component structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The reset button assembly serves multiple functions: it mechanically resets the GFCI device, provides visual feedback through the light pipe/LED combination, and maintains structural integration within the housing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture.
2Loss of information
If the light pipe is positioned adjacent to the reset button, then visual indication is improved, but space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe is nested within or adjacent to the reset button structure, utilizing the existing spatial envelope of the reset mechanism. The light pipe extends from the front surface of the reset button, effectively nesting the indication function within the boundaries of the existing control element.
Solution Approach 2:
The light pipe is positioned to extend in a dimension that utilizes unused space within the housing, rather than expanding the footprint in the primary planar dimensions. This allows the indication function to be added without significantly increasing the overall device footprint.
3Reliability
If the light pipe and reset button are securely coupled, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reset button assembly is divided into distinct functional segments (button body, light pipe, coupling features) that can be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled through simple coupling mechanisms that ensure reliability without requiring complex manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the light pipe and reset button, providing a reliable connection that is simple to manufacture and assemble. This intermediary coupling feature ensures stable positioning while maintaining ease of assembly through standardized fastening methods.
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
The solution provides a clear visual indication of the GFCI's reset status using minimal space, enhancing user visibility and reliability of the GFCI's operation.
Implementation Method 1
a light pipe, with the light pipe being positioned in close proximity to an LED... light emitted from the light source is directed from the second end of the light pipe to the first end
Data Source
AI summary
An improved ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacle includes a reset button coupled to a light pipe. The reset button and light pipe are designed to be coupled to one another in a manner ensuring that they cannot be unintentionally uncoupled and which uses minimal space in the GFCI housing. The light pipe has a main body and a lever protruding from the main body. The main body has a surface visible from the front of the GFCI, and the lever protrudes orthogonally from the main body. A sidewall of the reset button comprises an opening structured to receive the light pipe lever only when the lever is positioned in a specific orientation. When the lever is received in the opening of the reset button, the light pipe can be rotated until a notch formed in the lever snap fits onto the sidewall of the reset button.