18138258. 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 18138258 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 with a single core and two windings.
  • A ground fault detection module is connected to the first winding to detect line-to-ground faults.
  • A GN stimulus provides a signal to the second winding.
  • A grounded neutral 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 and circuits

Problems Solved: - Detecting and preventing ground faults in electrical systems - Ensuring safety by identifying neutral-to-ground faults - Providing reliable protection against electrical hazards

Benefits: - Enhanced safety for users and equipment - Quick detection and response to faults - Compliance with electrical safety regulations

Commercial Applications: Title: "Advanced Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter for Enhanced Electrical Safety" This technology can be used in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and utilities to improve electrical safety standards and prevent accidents.

Questions about the technology: 1. How does the GFCI with a current transformer improve electrical safety? - The GFCI with a current transformer enhances safety by detecting and responding to ground faults in electrical systems, reducing the risk of electric shocks and fires. 2. What are the key features of the GN stimulus in the GFCI? - The GN stimulus provides a signal to the second winding of the current transformer, allowing for the detection of neutral-to-ground faults and ensuring comprehensive protection against electrical hazards.


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.