Protective device with automated self-test

摘要

The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device that includes a test circuit that is configured to generate a recurring simulated fault signal. A detection circuit is configured to generate a test detection signal in response to the recurring simulated fault signal. An end-of-life monitor circuit is configured to generate an end-of-life detection signal if the test detection signal is not generated within a first predetermined period of time. At least one indicator is configured to emit an indication signal in response to the end-of-life detection signal. A response mechanism is configured to decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals after a second predetermined period of time has elapsed following the end-of-life detection signal.

主权项

1. An electrical wiring device comprising:
a plurality of line terminals and a plurality of load terminals; a test circuit coupled to the line terminals or the load terminals and configured to generate a recurring simulated fault signal; a detection circuit coupled to the test circuit, the detection circuit being configured to generate a test detection signal in response to the recurring simulated fault signal; an end-of-life monitor circuit coupled to the detection circuit, the end-of-life monitor circuit being configured to generate an end-of-life detection signal if the test detection signal is not generated within a first predetermined period of time; at least one indicator coupled to the end-of-life monitor circuit, the at least one indicator being configured to emit an indication signal in response to the end-of-life detection signal; and a response mechanism coupled to the end-of-life monitor circuit, the response mechanism being configured to decouple the plurality of line terminals from the plurality of load terminals after a second predetermined period of time has elapsed following the end-of-life detection signal.