MULTIFUNCTION CIRCUIT BREAKER WITH SINGLE TEST BUTTON

摘要

Method and system for implementing multiple user-initiated self-test sequences in a multifunction circuit breaker device uses a single test input to initiate both arc fault and ground fault testing while at the same time allowing the multifunction circuit breaker device to continue detecting actual arc faults and ground faults in near real time. Having one test input for multiple self-test sequences significantly reduces the number of mechanical and electrical components required by the circuit breaker device. The multifunction circuit breaker device also distinguishes between a simulated ground fault and an actual ground fault and avoids automatically tripping upon successful completion of the ground fault self-test sequence unless and until all self-test sequences have passed. In this way, users are not given a potentially incorrect indication that the multifunction circuit breaker device is working properly.

主权项

1. A system for providing user-initiated testing in a multifunction circuit breaker device, comprising:
a microcontroller configured to perform an arc fault self-test sequence and a ground fault self-test sequence in the multifunction circuit breaker device; a supervisory circuit connected to the microcontroller and configured to simulate a ground fault for the ground fault self-test sequence; and a test actuator connected to the supervisory circuit and configured to provide a single test input to the supervisory circuit when operated by a user, the single test input causing the supervisory circuit to simulate the ground fault for the ground fault self-test sequence; wherein the microcontroller is configured to initiate the arc fault self-test sequence and the ground fault self-test sequence when the test actuator provides the single test input to the supervisory circuit, and to provide a pass indication to the user after both the arc fault self-test sequence and the ground fault self-test sequence pass.