18101060. GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS simplified abstract (Schneider Electric USA, Inc.)

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GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

Organization Name

Schneider Electric USA, Inc.

Inventor(s)

Kenneth Riehl of North Liberty IA (US)

Joseph Hall of Colorado Springs CO (US)

Juan Ignacio Melecio of North Liberty IA (US)

Jeremy D. Schroeder of Cedar Rapids IA (US)

Jacob B. Guelff of Cedar Rapids IA (US)

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18101060 titled 'GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

The abstract describes a patent application for a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) that includes a current transformer (CT) with a single core, a first winding, and a second winding. The GFCI also features a ground fault (GF) detection module connected to the first winding to detect line-to-ground faults, a GN stimulus connected to the second winding to provide a stimulus signal, and a grounded neutral (GN) detection module connected to the second winding to detect neutral-to-ground faults.

  • The GFCI includes a current transformer (CT) with a single core.
  • The CT has a first winding and a second winding wound around the single core.
  • A ground fault (GF) detection module is connected to the first winding to detect line-to-ground faults.
  • A GN stimulus is connected to the second winding to provide a stimulus signal.
  • A grounded neutral (GN) detection module is connected to the second winding to detect neutral-to-ground faults.

Potential Applications: - Electrical safety systems in residential and commercial buildings - Industrial equipment with sensitive electronics - Outdoor power outlets to prevent electric shocks

Problems Solved: - Detecting line-to-ground faults for improved safety - Identifying neutral-to-ground faults to prevent electrical hazards

Benefits: - Enhanced protection against electrical faults - Increased safety for individuals and equipment - Early detection and prevention of potential hazards

Commercial Applications: Title: "Enhanced Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter for Improved Electrical Safety" This technology can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings to enhance electrical safety and prevent accidents. It can be marketed to electrical contractors, building developers, and industrial equipment manufacturers.

Questions about Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: 1. How do ground fault circuit interrupters improve electrical safety? Ground fault circuit interrupters detect abnormal currents and shut off power to prevent electric shocks and fires. 2. What are the key components of a ground fault circuit interrupter? A ground fault circuit interrupter typically includes a current transformer, a ground fault detection module, and a grounded neutral detection module.


Original Abstract Submitted

A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) can include a current transformer (CT) comprising a single core, a first winding wound around the single core, and a second winding wound around the single core. The GFCI can include a ground fault (GF) detection module operatively connected to the first winding to receive signals from the first winding and configured to determine whether a line-to-ground fault exists. The GFCI can also include a GN stimulus operatively connected to the second winding to provide a GN stimulus signal to the second winding. The GFCI can also include a grounded neutral (GN) detection module operatively connected to second winding and configured to receive signals from the second winding to determine whether a neutral-to-ground fault exists.