Manual Reset GFCI with Quick Connect Load Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GFCI devices require a constant supply of line voltage to operate, leading to power drain and potential overheating, and lack a feature for quick on-site connection of load input cords.
Innovation Solution
A manual reset GFCI with a solenoid that can operate in both energized and de-energized states, featuring a circuit breaker, relay circuit, latch circuit, and fault detection circuit, along with movable contact arms for quick connection of load input cords, minimizing PCB density and maximizing trace distances for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional GFCI devices require a constant supply of line voltage to operate, then the device can maintain continuous protection, but this leads to power drain and potential overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using a manual reset mechanism that requires user intervention to restore power flow after a ground fault. The GFCI automatically trips to open the circuit when a fault is detected, stopping power consumption during fault conditions, and requires manual resetting to resume normal operation, thereby eliminating continuous power drain while maintaining protection capability.
2Device complexity
If conventional GFCI devices use fixed connection terminals, then the device structure is simple, but this lacks flexibility for different cord configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the connection system into modular components: the GFCI device with quick connect terminals and separate load input cords. This segmentation allows different cord configurations to be connected to the same GFCI device, providing versatility without complicating the core GFCI structure. The quick connect terminals are designed to accept various cord types through a standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality through quick connect terminals designed to accommodate multiple cord configurations and applications. The terminals provide a standardized connection interface that can work with different types of load cords, making the GFCI device adaptable to various electrical protection scenarios without requiring device-specific modifications.
3Reliability
If conventional GFCI devices require complex wiring connections, then the connection is secure, but this makes on-site installation difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the GFCI device with quick connect terminals that have built-in connection mechanisms. The terminals are designed with contact arms and securing features that automatically engage when cords are connected, eliminating the need for on-site wiring complexities. This preliminary design ensures secure connections are achieved through simple plug-and-play insertion rather than complex field wiring.
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 reduces power consumption and heat issues while enabling easy on-site connection of various cord configurations, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A manual reset GFCI with a solenoid that can operate in both energized and de-energized states
Implementation Method 2
relay circuit for selectively opening the switch following a ground fault or manual reset
Implementation Method 3
ground fault circuit interrupters are well known in the art and are commonly used to protect against ground fault and grounded neutral conditions. In general, GFCI devices sense the presence of ground fault and grounded neutral conditions in the conducting lines
Data Source
AI summary
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) interrupts the flow of current through a pair of lines extending between a source of power and a load. The GFCI includes a circuit breaker, a relay circuit including a solenoid, a latch circuit, and a fault detecting circuit packaged in a circuit assembly. The GFCI is adaptable for a quick connect of a load input cord by a user, allowing for various configurations of cords to be utilized on site, the cord easily connected from the device being protected to the GFCI at the point of use. The GFCI circuit assembly includes a load input section having cable securement jaws for connection of the load input cable terminal ends.