GFCI Remote Reset via Wireless Network and Automatic Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power supply grounding fault protection circuits require manual resetting after a GFCI has been tripped, which can be inconvenient if the operator is not present, lacking remote resetting capabilities.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a wireless network circuit and an automatic resetting circuit into the power supply grounding fault protection circuit, allowing for remote control and automatic resetting of the GFCI through a wireless network, enabling users to remotely reset the device after a fault is cleared.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual resetting is used after GFCI tripping, then the device can be reset, but it requires operator presence and manual intervention which is inconvenient when the operator is away

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresetting convenienceVSAvoidautomatic resetting capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects when the leakage fault has been eliminated and autonomously resets the GFCI without requiring manual intervention. The microcontroller monitors the leakage current continuously and automatically closes the tripping mechanism control circuit when normal operation is detected, enabling the device to serve itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors leakage current through the leakage grounding detection circuit and uses this feedback information to determine when to reset. The microcontroller receives real-time feedback on circuit status and automatically resets when the feedback indicates the fault has been cleared, creating a closed-loop control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual resetting is required, then the control logic is simple, but remote resetting capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote resetting capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The microcontroller serves multiple functions: it monitors leakage current, controls the tripping mechanism, receives wireless commands, and performs automatic resetting. By making the control system multi-functional, the patent adds remote resetting capability without requiring a completely separate control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The wireless communication module acts as an intermediary between the user and the GFCI system. It receives remote reset commands and transmits them to the microcontroller, which then executes the reset operation, allowing remote control without direct physical interaction with the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11349298B2Power supply grounding fault protection circuit
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 CHEN ZE
  • US11349298B2 patent drawing
  • US11349298B2 patent drawing
  • US11349298B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a power supply grounding fault protection circuit. A power supply grounding fault protection circuit may include a power supply circuit, a leakage grounding detection circuit, a signal amplifying and shaping circuit, a microcontroller control circuit, a power supply detection and indicator circuit, a tripping mechanism control circuit, a reverse grounding detection and execution circuit, a wireless network circuit, and an automatic resetting circuit. The practice of the present disclosure may permit a user to reset the grounding fault circuit interrupter remotely after a leaking fault of a circuit is eliminated.