Marina Power Pedestal Ground Fault Indicator System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power pedestals, such as those used in marinas and recreational vehicle parks, do not provide an obvious indication when a ground fault occurs, leading users to discover the issue only when attempting to plug in a device.
Innovation Solution
A power pedestal with a ground fault detection system that includes circuit interrupters capable of outputting an alarm signal, a relay to generate an indicator signal, and an indicator unit that illuminates in response to the signal, using a multicolor LED to visually alert users of a ground fault condition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ground fault detection system with indicator is added to the power pedestal, then user safety and awareness of ground fault conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A relay is introduced as an intermediary component between the circuit interrupter and the indicator unit. The relay receives the alarm signal from the circuit interrupter and activates the indicator unit, providing a simple mediation mechanism that maintains system reliability while minimizing complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit interrupter inherently possesses ground fault detection capability and automatically outputs an alarm signal when a ground fault is detected. This self-service feature eliminates the need for additional complex detection circuitry, as the existing component performs both protection and indication functions
2Measurement precision
If circuit interrupters with ground fault detection capability are installed in each receptacle, then ground fault detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Circuit interrupters with ground fault detection capability are installed in each receptacle, allowing each individual circuit to independently detect ground faults. This multi-functional approach enables precise detection at each outlet while maintaining standardized components across the system
Solution Approach 2:
The power pedestal is divided into multiple independent circuits, each with its own circuit interrupter capable of ground fault detection. This segmentation allows precise localization of ground faults to specific receptacles, improving detection accuracy while enabling modular installation and maintenance
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 system effectively alerts users to a ground fault condition before they attempt to use the power pedestal, preventing potential hazards and improving user safety by providing a clear visual indication.
Implementation Method 1
using a multicolor LED to visually alert users of a ground fault condition
Data Source
AI summary
A power pedestal includes a pedestal member including a base structured to be fixed to a platform and an enclosure extending from said base, a plurality of input power terminals mounted to said pedestal member and structured to be electrically connected to a power source, a number of output power receptacles mounted to said enclosure, a number of circuit interrupters having a ground fault detection capability and being structured to output an alarm signal in response to detecting a ground fault, a relay structured to receive the alarm signal from the circuit interrupters and to output an indicator signal, and an indicator unit structured to receive the indicator signal from the relay, the indicator unit including an indicator and being structured to illuminate the indicator in response to receiving the indicator signal.