U.S. patent number RE45,064 [Application Number 13/566,398] was granted by the patent office on 2014-08-05 for power distribution bus with protection and alarming.
This patent grant is currently assigned to ADC Telecommunications, Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Delfino Hernandez, David J. Johnsen, Luis Armando Yanes. Invention is credited to Delfino Hernandez, David J. Johnsen, Luis Armando Yanes.
United States Patent |
RE45,064 |
Hernandez , et al. |
August 5, 2014 |
Power distribution bus with protection and alarming
Abstract
Power distribution busses and methods are disclosed that provide
flexible protection and alarming capabilities. Various embodiments
provide interchangeability of fuses and circuit breakers within the
same power distribution bus configuration. These various
embodiments also provide discrete alarming for fused lines,
discrete alarming for lines with circuit breakers, combined
alarming for lines having mixed forms of protection, and/or
selectable alarming such as combined versus discrete in relation to
employing all fused lines, employing all circuit breaker protected
lines, or employing mixed line protection.
Inventors: |
Hernandez; Delfino (Chihuahua,
MX), Johnsen; David J. (Plymouth, MN), Yanes; Luis
Armando (Miramar, FL) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Hernandez; Delfino
Johnsen; David J.
Yanes; Luis Armando |
Chihuahua
Plymouth
Miramar |
N/A
MN
FL |
MX
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
(Berwyne, PA)
|
Family
ID: |
25430126 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/566,398 |
Filed: |
August 3, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
|
11507948 |
Aug 21, 2006 |
7480127 |
|
|
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10914721 |
Aug 9, 2004 |
7120002 |
|
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|
09911360 |
Jul 23, 2001 |
6775120 |
|
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Reissue of: |
12344658 |
Dec 29, 2008 |
7768760 |
Aug 3, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
361/103; 361/115;
361/104 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02H
3/042 (20130101); H02H 3/046 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
H02H
5/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;361/41,103,104,115,124,125 ;200/61.03,61.04 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Other References
Custom Power Distribution; Carlingswitch; www. carlingswitch.com;
May 1999. cited by applicant .
Remote Operated Circuit Breakers; Carling Technologies;
www.carlingtech.com; May 18, 2001. cited by applicant .
Telect; High Current Power Distribution Alarm Panel Users Manual;
pp. 1-45; getinfo@telect.com. cited by applicant .
Telpower DC Power Protection Systems; Telpower Compact Fused
Disconnect Switch TPC & TPCDS; Cooper Bussmann; Sep. 24, 2000.
cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Han; Jessica
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Merchant & Gould P.C.
Parent Case Text
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.
11/507,948, filed Aug. 21, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,480,127 which
is a divisional of application Ser. No. 10/914,721, filed Aug. 9,
2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,120,002, which is a divisional of
application Ser. No. 09/911,360, filed Jul. 23, 2001, now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,775,120, which applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A power distribution bus alarm circuit comprising: a first and a
second socket, each having three alarm connections and two power
connections plugged into the bus; an alarm circuit connected to
first and second alarm connections of the first and second sockets,
the alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from
the first of the three connections of the first or second socket
and being responsive to a voltage being applied across second and
third connections of the first or second sockets; a second alarm
circuit connected to first and second alarm connections of the
first socket, the alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being
applied from the first of the three connections of the first socket
and being responsive to a voltage being applied across second and
third connections of the first socket; and a third alarm circuit
connected to first and second alarm connections of the second
socket, the alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being
applied from the first of the three connections of the second
socket and being responsive to a voltage being applied across
second and third connections of the second socket.
2. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a voltage source electrically connected to third alarm
connections of the first and second sockets.
3. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a fuse electrically interconnecting the two power
connections of the first socket and isolating the first alarm
connection of the first socket from the power connections when in a
non-blown state.
4. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 3, wherein the
fuse connects the first alarm connection of the first socket to at
least one of the two power connections of the first socket when in
a blown state.
5. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 4, further
comprising a circuit breaker positioned in the second socket, the
circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two power
connections of the second socket when in a non-tripped state and
electrically interconnecting the second and third alarm connections
of the second socket when in a tripped state.
6. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a circuit breaker positioned in the first socket, the
circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two power
connections of the first socket when in a non-tripped state and
electrically interconnecting the second and third alarm connections
of the first socket when in a tripped state.
7. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a remote alarm signal connected to the alarm
circuit.
8. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a remote alarm signal connected to the second alarm
circuit and a remote alarm signal connected to the third alarm
circuit.
9. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a diode connected between the first alarm connection of
the first socket and the alarm circuit.
10. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising a diode connected between the first alarm connection of
the second socket and the alarm circuit.
11. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 1, further
comprising: a light emitting diode connected to the alarm circuit;
a second light emitting diode connected to the second alarm
circuit; and a third light emitting diode connected to the third
alarm circuit.
12. A method of employing fuses and circuit breakers with a power
distribution bus, the method comprising: inserting a fuse with an
alarm connector in a first socket, the first socket connected to
and receiving power from a power distribution bus; inserting a
circuit breaker with a pair of alarm connectors in a second socket,
the second socket connected to and receiving power from the power
distribution bus; inhibiting a response from a common alarm circuit
until either the fuse is blown or the circuit breaker is tripped;
inhibiting a response from a second alarm circuit electrically
linked to the first socket until the fuse is blown; inhibiting a
response from a third alarm circuit electrically linked to the
second socket until the circuit breaker is tripped.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: removing the fuse
from the first socket; inserting a second circuit breaker with a
pair of alarm connectors in the first socket; and inhibiting a
response from the second alarm circuit electrically linked to the
first socket until the second circuit breaker is tripped.
14. The method of claim 12, further comprising: removing the
circuit breaker from the second socket; inserting a fuse with an
alarm connector in the second socket; and inhibiting a response
from the third alarm circuit electrically linked to the second
socket until the fuse is blown.
15. The method of claim 12, further comprising tripping the circuit
breaker to deliver power to the common alarm circuit and the third
alarm circuit through the pair of alarm connectors.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising, upon tripping the
circuit breaker, activating a light emitting diode electrically
connected to at least one of the common alarm circuit and the
second alarm circuit.
17. The method of claim 12, further comprising blowing the fuse to
deliver power to the common alarm circuit and the second alarm
circuit through the alarm connector.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising, upon blowing the
fuse, activating a light emitting diode electrically connected to
at least one of the common alarm circuit and the second alarm
circuit.
19. A power distribution bus circuit comprising: a power
distribution bus; a first socket electrically connected between the
power distribution bus and a power distribution circuit, the first
socket including at least one alarm connection and configured to
receive a fuse or a circuit breaker; a second socket electrically
connected between the power distribution bus and a second power
distribution circuit, the second socket including at least one
alarm connection and configured to receive a fuse or a circuit
breaker; a first alarm circuit electrically connected to the at
least one alarm connection of both the first and second sockets,
the first alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied
from the at least one alarm connection of either of the first and
second circuits; a second alarm circuit electrically connected to
the at least one alarm connection of the first socket, the second
alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from the
at least one alarm connection of the first circuit; and a third
alarm circuit electrically connected to the at least one alarm
connection of the second socket, the third alarm circuit being
responsive to a voltage being applied from the at least one alarm
connection of the second circuit.
20. The power distribution bus circuit of claim 19, wherein the at
least one alarm connection of each of the first and second sockets
includes a plurality of conductive paths electrically connected to
that socket.
21. The power distribution bus circuit of claim 20, further
comprising a voltage source electrically connected to one of the
plurality of alarm connections of the first and second sockets.
.Iadd.22. A power distribution bus alarm circuit comprising: a
first socket and a second socket, each of the first and second
sockets having a plurality of alarm connections and two power
connections plugged into the bus; an alarm circuit connected to the
plurality of alarm connections of the first and second sockets, the
alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from a
first alarm connection of the plurality of alarm connections of the
first or second socket and being responsive to a voltage being
applied across two of the plurality of alarm connections of the
first or second sockets; a second alarm circuit connected to the
plurality of alarm connections of the first socket, the alarm
circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from a first
alarm connection of the plurality of alarm connections of the first
socket and being responsive to a voltage being applied across two
of the plurality of alarm connections of the first socket; and a
third alarm circuit connected to the plurality of alarm connections
of the second socket, the alarm circuit being responsive to a
voltage being applied from a first alarm connection of the
plurality of alarm connections of the second socket and being
responsive to a voltage being applied across two of the plurality
of alarm connections of the second socket. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.23. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
wherein the first alarm connection of the first socket is separate
from the two alarm connections of the first socket. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.24. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
wherein the first alarm connection of the second socket is separate
from the two alarm connections of the second socket. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.25. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
further comprising a voltage source electrically connected to at
least one of the plurality of alarm connections of the first and
second sockets. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.26. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
further comprising a fuse electrically interconnecting the two
power connections of the first socket and isolating the first alarm
connection of the first socket from the power connections when in a
non-blown state. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.27. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 26,
wherein the fuse connects the first alarm connection of the first
socket to at least one of the two power connections of the first
socket when in a blown state. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.28. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 27,
further comprising a circuit breaker positioned in the second
socket, the circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two
power connections of the second socket when in a non-tripped state
and electrically interconnecting the plurality of alarm connections
of the second socket when in a tripped state. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.29. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
further comprising a circuit breaker positioned in the first
socket, the circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two
power connections of the first socket when in a non-tripped state
and electrically interconnecting the plurality of alarm connections
of the first socket when in a tripped state. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.30. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
further comprising a remote alarm signal connected to the alarm
circuit. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.31. The power distribution bus alarm circuit of claim 22,
further comprising a remote alarm signal connected to the second
alarm circuit and a remote alarm signal connected to the third
alarm circuit. .Iaddend.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to power distribution units and
providing power from a bus within the power distribution unit. More
particularly, the present invention relates to providing protection
and alarming for the bus within the power distribution unit.
BACKGROUND
Power distribution units generally provide current to downstream
devices operating at a given voltage. A bus is included in the
power distribution unit and acts as a voltage node that provides
the current to the devices. The current that is provided to each
individual device generally falls within an acceptable range.
However, one or more downstream devices may draw more current than
normal due to a heavier than normal load or due to a device
malfunction. For purposes of protecting both the power distribution
unit and the downstream device, it is desirable to block current
from the power distribution unit to the downstream device when the
current drawn by the device exceeds a threshold amount.
Limiting the current to the downstream device is often done by
including a fuse in each line leading to each device from the bus.
The fuse often provides an alarm voltage so that when the fuse
blows due to excessive current, the alarm is triggered. However,
the conventional use of fuses in power distribution busses has
drawbacks when multiple lines of power are being provided by the
power distribution unit because the alarm circuit of conventional
power distribution units indicates that a fuse is blown but does
not indicate which line is blocked due to a blown fuse.
Furthermore, conventional power distribution units that are
configured to operate with fuses are not configured to operate with
circuit breakers on some or all lines.
Circuit breakers are used by some conventional power distribution
units to limit the current in each line. However, conventional
power distribution units using circuit breakers suffer from the
same drawbacks as those using fuses. A general alarm is generated
by the alarm circuit of a conventional power distribution in
response to a tripped breaker, but no indication of the particular
line that is blocked is provided. Furthermore, conventional power
distribution units that are configured to operate with a circuit
breaker are not configured to also operate with a fuse on some or
all lines.
It may be useful in some instances to have fuses on some of the
lines output by the power distribution bus while having circuit
breakers on other lines. Circuit breakers often have an alarming
capability that functions by receiving voltage from a voltage
source, such as from the alarm circuit itself. Fuses often have an
alarming capability that functions by channeling voltage from the
power distribution line to the alarm circuitry. Therefore,
conventional power distribution units have not permitted
interchanging fuses with circuit breakers.
Thus, there is a need in the art for more flexible protection and
alarming capabilities for power distribution buses.
SUMMARY
The embodiments of the present invention address the problems
discussed above and others by providing a power distribution bus
with flexible protection and alarming features. Various embodiments
permit fuses to be mixed with circuit breakers, permit discrete
alarming for each line from the bus, permit combined alarming for
the lines of the bus, and/or permit selectable discrete or combined
alarming.
The present invention may be viewed as a method of employing fuses
and circuit breakers with a power distribution bus. The method
involves inserting a fuse with an alarm connector in a first
location plugged into the bus for receiving power from the power
distribution bus and inserting a circuit breaker with a pair of
alarm connectors in a second location plugged into the bus for
receiving power from the power distribution unit. The method also
involves inhibiting a response from an alarm circuit electrically
linked to the first location and second location until the fuse is
blown or until the circuit breaker is tripped.
The present invention may be viewed as a power distribution bus
alarm circuit. The power distribution bus includes a first and a
second socket, each having three alarm connections and two power
connections. The bus also includes an alarm circuit connected to
first and second alarm connections of the first and second sockets,
with the alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied
from the first of the three connections of the first or second
socket and being responsive to a voltage being applied across
second and third connections of the first or second sockets. The
bus additionally includes a voltage source electrically connected
to third alarm connections of the first and second sockets. The bus
also includes a fuse positioned in the first socket, with the fuse
electrically interconnecting the two power connections and
isolating the first alarm connection from the power connection when
in a non-blown state. Additionally, the bus includes a circuit
breaker positioned in the second socket, with the circuit breaker
electrically interconnecting the two power connections when in a
non-tripped state and electrically interconnecting the second and
third alarm connections when in a tripped state.
The present invention may be viewed as another method of employing
fuses and circuit breakers with a power distribution bus. The
method involves inserting a fuse with an alarm connector in a first
location in the bus for receiving power from the power distribution
unit and inserting a circuit breaker with a pair of alarm
connectors in a second location in the bus for receiving power from
the power distribution unit. The method additionally involves
inhibiting a response from a first alarm circuit electrically
linked to the first location until the fuse is blown and inhibiting
a response from a second alarm circuit electrically linked to the
second location until the circuit breaker is tripped.
The present invention may be viewed as another power distribution
bus alarm circuit. The bus includes a first and a second socket,
with each having three alarm connections and two power connections.
The bus includes a first alarm circuit connected to first and
second alarm connections of the first socket, with the alarm
circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from the first
of the three connections of the first socket and being responsive
to a voltage being applied across second and third connections of
the first socket. The bus also includes a second alarm circuit
connected to first and second alarm connections of the second
socket, with the alarm circuit being responsive to a voltage being
applied from the first of the three connections of the second
socket and being responsive to a voltage being applied across
second and third connections of the second socket. The bus
additionally includes a voltage source electrically connected to
third alarm connections of the first and second sockets. Also, the
bus includes a fuse positioned in the first socket, with the fuse
electrically interconnecting the two power connections and
isolating the first alarm connection from the power connection when
in a non-blown state. Additionally, the bus includes a circuit
breaker positioned in the second socket, with the circuit breaker
electrically interconnecting the two power connections when in a
non-tripped state and electrically interconnecting the second and
third alarm connections when in a tripped state.
The present invention may be viewed as another method of employing
fuses and circuit breakers with a power distribution bus. The
method involves inserting a fuse with an alarm connector in a first
location in the bus for receiving power from the power distribution
unit and inserting a circuit breaker with a pair of alarm
connectors in a second location in the bus for receiving power from
the power distribution unit. The method also involves electrically
connecting the first location to a first alarm circuit or a second
alarm circuit and electrically connecting the second location to
the first alarm circuit or to a third alarm circuit. Additionally,
the method involves inhibiting a response from the first alarm
circuit or second alarm circuit electrically linked to the first
location until the fuse is blown and inhibiting a response from the
first alarm circuit or third alarm circuit electrically linked to
the second location until the circuit breaker is tripped.
The present invention may be viewed as another power distribution
bus alarm circuit. The power distribution bus includes a first and
a second socket, with each having three alarm connections and two
power connections. The bus also includes a voltage source
electrically connected to third alarm connections of the first and
second sockets. Additionally, the bus includes a fuse positioned in
the first socket, with the fuse electrically interconnecting the
two power connections and isolating the first alarm connection from
the power connection when in a non-blown state. The bus also
includes a circuit breaker positioned in the second socket, with
the circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two power
connections when in a non-tripped state and electrically
interconnecting the second and third alarm connections when in a
tripped state. The bus additionally includes a first conductive
path extending from the first alarm connection of the first socket,
with the first conductive path including a first diode that
prevents current flow between the first alarm connection of the
first socket and the first alarm connection of the second socket.
The bus also includes a second conductive path extending from the
first alarm connection of the second socket, with the second
conductive path including a diode that prevents current flow
between the first alarm connection of the second socket and the
first alarm connection of the first socket. The bus further
includes a third conductive path extending from the second alarm
connection of the first socket, with the third conductive path
including a diode that prevents current flow between the second
alarm connection of the first socket and the second alarm
connection of the second socket. The bus also includes a fourth
conductive path extending from the second alarm connection of the
second socket, with the fourth conductive path including a diode
that prevents current flow between the second alarm connection of
the second socket and the second alarm connection of the first
socket.
The present invention may also be viewed as a method of employing
fuses with a power distribution bus. The method involves inserting
a first fuse with an alarm connector in a first location in the bus
for receiving power from the power distribution unit and inserting
a second fuse with an alarm connector in a second location in the
bus for receiving power from the power distribution unit. The
method also involves inhibiting a response from a first alarm
circuit electrically linked to the first location until the first
fuse is blown and inhibiting a response from a second alarm circuit
electrically linked to the second location until the second fuse is
blown.
The present invention may be viewed as a power distribution bus
alarm circuit. The power distribution bus includes a first and a
second socket, each having an alarm connection and two power
connections. The bus also includes a first alarm circuit connected
to the alarm connection of the first socket, with the first alarm
circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied from the alarm
connection of the first socket. The bus additionally includes a
second alarm circuit connected to the alarm connection of the
second socket, with the second alarm circuit being responsive to a
voltage being applied from the alarm connection of the second
socket. Also, the bus includes a first fuse positioned in the first
socket, with the first fuse electrically interconnecting the two
power connections and isolating the alarm connection of the first
socket from the power connection when in a non-blown state. The bus
also includes a second fuse positioned in the second socket, with
the second fuse electrically interconnecting the two power
connections isolating the alarm connection of the second socket
when in a non-blown state.
The present invention may be viewed as a method of employing
circuit breakers with a power distribution bus. The method involves
inserting a first circuit breaker with a pair of alarm connectors
in a first location in the bus for receiving power from the power
distribution unit and inserting a second circuit breaker with a
pair of alarm connectors in a second location in the bus for
receiving power from the power distribution unit. The method
further involves inhibiting a response from a first alarm circuit
electrically linked to the first location until the first circuit
breaker is tripped and inhibiting a response from a second alarm
circuit electrically linked to the second location until the second
circuit breaker is tripped.
The present invention may be viewed as another power distribution
bus alarm circuit. The bus includes a first and a second socket,
each having two alarm connections and two power connections. The
bus also includes a first alarm circuit connected to first and
second alarm connections of the first socket, with the alarm
circuit being responsive to a voltage being applied across the two
connections of the first socket. The bus additionally includes a
second alarm circuit connected to first and second alarm
connections of the second socket, with the alarm circuit being
responsive to a voltage being applied across the two connections of
the second socket. The bus also includes a voltage source
electrically connected to one of the two connections of the first
and second sockets. The bus includes a first circuit breaker
positioned in the first socket, with the first circuit breaker
electrically interconnecting the two power connections when in a
non-tripped state and electrically interconnecting the two alarm
connections when in a non-blown state. The bus also includes a
second circuit breaker positioned in the second socket, with the
second circuit breaker electrically interconnecting the two power
connections when in a non-tripped state and electrically
interconnecting the two alarm connections when in a tripped
state.
The present invention may be viewed as another method of employing
fuses with a power distribution bus. The method involves inserting
a first fuse with an alarm connector in a first location in the bus
for receiving power from the power distribution unit and inserting
a second fuse with an alarm connector in a second location in the
bus for receiving power from the power distribution unit. The
method further involves electrically connecting the first location
to a first alarm circuit or a second alarm circuit and electrically
connecting the second location to the first alarm circuit or to a
third alarm circuit. Additionally, the method involves inhibiting a
response from the first alarm circuit or second alarm circuit
electrically linked to the first location until the first fuse is
blown and inhibiting a response from the first alarm circuit or
third alarm circuit electrically linked to the second location
until the second fuse is blown.
The present invention may be viewed as another power distribution
bus alarm circuit. The bus includes a first and a second socket,
with each having an alarm connection and two power connections. The
bus also includes a first fuse positioned in the first socket, with
the first fuse electrically interconnecting the two power
connections and isolating the alarm connection of the first socket
from the power connection when in a non-blown state. The bus
includes a second fuse positioned in the second socket, with the
second fuse electrically interconnecting the two power connections
and isolating the alarm connection of the second socket from the
power connection when in a non-blown state. The bus includes a
first conductive path extending from the alarm connection of the
first socket and a second conductive path extending from the alarm
connection of the second socket. The bus also includes a third
conductive path extending from the alarm connection of the first
socket and a fourth conductive path extending from the alarm
connection of the second socket.
The present invention may be viewed as another method of employing
circuit breakers with a power distribution bus. The method involves
inserting a first circuit breaker with a pair of alarm connectors
in a first location in the bus for receiving power from the power
distribution unit and inserting a second circuit breaker with a
pair of alarm connectors in a second location in the bus for
receiving power from the power distribution unit. The method also
involves electrically connecting the first location to a first
alarm circuit or a second alarm circuit and electrically connecting
the second location to the first alarm circuit or to a third alarm
circuit. The method additionally involves inhibiting a response
from the first alarm circuit or second alarm circuit electrically
linked to the first location until the first circuit breaker is
tripped. Also, the method involves inhibiting a response from the
first alarm circuit or third alarm circuit electrically linked to
the second location until the second circuit breaker is
tripped.
The present invention may be viewed as another power distribution
bus alarm circuit. The bus includes a first and a second socket,
with each having two alarm connections and two power connections.
The bus also includes a voltage source electrically connected to
one of the alarm connections of the first and second sockets. The
bus includes a first circuit breaker positioned in the first
socket, with the first circuit breaker electrically interconnecting
the two power connections when in a non-tripped state and
electrically interconnecting the two alarm connections when in a
tripped state. The bus also includes a second circuit breaker
positioned in the second socket, with the second circuit breaker
electrically interconnecting the two power connections when in a
non-tripped state and electrically interconnecting the alarm
connections when in a tripped state. The bus additionally includes
a first conductive path extending from the alarm connection of the
first socket not connected to the voltage source and a second
conductive path extending from the alarm connection of the second
socket not connected to the voltage source.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing discrete alarming with fuses.
FIG. 2 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing discrete alarming with circuit breakers.
FIG. 3 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing selectable alarming with fuses.
FIG. 4 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing selectable alarming with circuit breakers.
FIG. 5 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing combined alarming with mixed fuses and circuit
breakers.
FIG. 6 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing discrete alarming with mixed fuses and circuit
breakers.
FIG. 7 is a schematic of a protection and alarming configuration
employing selectable alarming with mixed fuses and circuit
breakers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1 shows a protection and alarm configuration 100 for a power
distribution bus 146. This configuration permits fuses to be used
for protection while permitting discrete alarming for each
distribution line. Several manufacturers make suitable fuses, such
as the Cooper Bussman TPCDS-BUL disconnect in conjunction with the
Cooper Bussman TPC series fuse. Although two individual
distribution lines are shown in each of the drawings, it is to be
understood that only two are shown to simplify understanding of the
protection and alarm configurations and that any number of
distribution lines may be applicable to the various protection and
alarming configurations.
A voltage is provided on the power distribution bus 146 to a
terminal 106 of a first socket 102 and to a terminal 110 of a
second socket 104. The first socket has a fuse 101 that passes
current from the bus 146 to a second terminal 108 that is connected
to the downstream device 148. Likewise, the second socket has a
fuse 103 that passes current from the bus 146 to a second terminal
112 that is connected to the downstream device 150. The terminals
106, 108, 110, and 112 may be of various types such as permanent
connections or temporary connections where the alarm configuration
circuitry 100 is contained in a plug-in module. The fuses 101, 103
protect the power distribution unit and downstream devices 148, 150
by breaking the current pathway when the current is excessive to
either of the devices 148, 150.
The first socket 102 may have three alarm connections 114, 116, and
118, and the second socket 104 may have three alarm connections
120, 122, 124. However, in this embodiment only one alarm
connection 116, 122 of the each socket 102, 104 is used. The alarm
connection 116 connects to an alarm circuit interface 130 through a
conductor 126 forming a conductive path from the first socket 102.
The interface 130 may be any suitable connection, permanent or
temporary, that establishes continuity between the socket 102 and
an alarm circuit 134. An alarm circuit 134, as is known in the art,
may generate a remote alarm signal 138, such as by triggering an
internal relay (not shown), and/or may light a light emitting diode
(LED) 140 to provide a visual indication as to the condition of the
fuse 101.
The alarm connection 122 connects to an alarm circuit interface 132
through a conductor 128 forming a conductive path from the second
socket 104. The interface 132 may be of the same type as interface
130. The interface 132 provides continuity between the second
socket 104 and a second alarm circuit 136. The second alarm circuit
136 may be of the same type as the alarm circuit 134 to generate a
remote alarm signal 142 and/or light the LED 144.
The fuse 101 of the first socket 102 isolates the distribution bus
146 from the alarm connection 116 when the fuse 101 is not blown,
but when the fuse 101 blows the distribution bus 146 is channeled
to the alarm connection 116 through the fuse 101. Likewise, the
fuse 103 of the second socket isolates the distribution bus 146
from the alarm connection 122 when the fuse 103 is not blown. The
first alarm circuit 134 does not respond to fuse 103 blowing, and
the second alarm circuit 136 does not respond to the fuse 101
blowing. Therefore, discrete alarming for each line feeding power
to devices 148, 150 is provided to permit individual
monitoring.
FIG. 2 shows a protection and alarm configuration 200 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits circuit
breakers to be used for protection while permitting discrete
alarming for each distribution line. Examples of suitable circuit
breakers include the Carling CA1-X0-07-819-AXX-C series, the Eaton
AM 1R-B2-AC23D-A52, and the Airpax LMLK-1RLS4-31462-10-V. As
previously discussed, two individual distribution lines are shown
to simplify understanding of the protection and alarm
configurations and any number of distribution lines may be
applicable.
The alarm configuration 200 includes a first socket 202 having a
terminal 206 that connects to a bus and a terminal 208 that leads
to a downstream device. A circuit breaker 201 is inserted into the
first socket 202. The circuit breaker 201 passes current from
terminal 206 to terminal 208 until the current becomes excessive.
Once the current is excessive, the circuit breaker 201 trips to
stop current flow between the terminals 206, 208. The alarm
configuration 200 also includes a second socket 204 having a
terminal 210 that connects to a bus and a terminal 212 that leads
to another downstream device. A circuit breaker 203 is inserted
into the second socket 204. The circuit breaker 203 passes current
from terminal 210 to terminal 212 until the current becomes
excessive. Once the current is excessive, the circuit breaker 203
trips to stop current flow between the terminals 210, 212.
As discussed above with reference to FIG. 1, the sockets 202, 204
may include three alarm connections including connection 214, 216,
and 218 for socket 202 and connections 220, 222, and 224 for socket
204. However, the configuration 200 only uses connections 214 and
218 for socket 202 and connections 220 and 224 for socket 204 to
generate an alarm because connections 216 and 222, although
connected to the circuit breakers 201, 203 when in a non-tripped
state, are not connected to the alarm circuits 234, 236. The alarm
connections 218, 224 are connected to a voltage source 246 through
a conductor 250 and an interface 248. The voltage source shown
provides negative voltage to the alarm circuits but one skilled in
the art will recognize that positive voltage could be provided
instead.
Tripping the circuit breaker 201 causes the alarm connection 218 to
be connected to the alarm connection 214 and current flows between
the voltage source 248 and the alarm circuit 234 through conductor
226 and interface 230. Likewise, tripping the circuit breaker 203
causes the alarm connection 224 to be connected to the alarm
connection 220 and current flows between the voltage source 248 and
the alarm circuit 236 through conductor 228 and interface 232.
Thus, when circuit breaker 201 trips, alarm circuit 234 generates a
remote alarm signal 238 and/or lights LED 240. When circuit breaker
203 trips, alarm circuit 236 generates a remote alarm signal 242
and/or lights LED 244. Circuit breaker 201 has no effect on alarm
circuit 236 and circuit breaker 203 has no effect on alarm circuit
234. Therefore, discrete alarming is provided for each line to
permit individual monitoring.
FIG. 3 shows a protection and alarm configuration 300 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits fuses to
be used for protection while permitting selection of discrete
alarming for each distribution line or a single alarm responsive to
several of the distribution lines. As previously discussed, two
individual distribution lines are shown to simplify understanding
of the protection and alarm configurations and any number of
distribution lines may be applicable.
The alarm configuration 300 includes a first socket 302 with a fuse
301 and a second socket 304 with a fuse 303. The fuse 301 carries
current between terminal 306 and terminal 308, and fuse 303 carries
current between terminal 310 and 312. Socket 302 may have three
alarm connections 314, 316, and 318 and socket 304 may have three
alarm connections 320, 322, and 324. However, only alarm
connections 316 and 322 are used.
If a single alarm responsive to all lines is to be used, then alarm
circuit 333 is connected to interface 331. When fuse 301 blows,
current is channeled between the bus terminal 306 and alarm circuit
333 through alarm connection 316. Alarm connection 316 is connected
to the interface 331 through a conductive path 326. Conductive path
326 may include a diode 346 which is discussed in more detail below
with reference to discrete alarming for configuration 300. The bus
voltage at terminal 306 is assumed to be negative for this diode
direction. When alarm circuit 333 receives power from socket 302, a
remote alarm signal 335 is generated and/or the LED 337 lights.
Additionally, if a single alarm responsive to all lines is to be
used, then when fuse 303 blows, current is channeled between the
bus terminal 310 and alarm circuit 333 through alarm connection
322. Alarm connection 322 is connected to the interface 331 through
a conductive path 328. Conductive path 328 may include a diode 348
which is also discussed in more detail below with reference to
discrete alarming for configuration 300. As mentioned, negative
voltage is assumed at bus terminal 306 for this diode direction.
When alarm circuit 333 receives power from socket 302, the remote
alarm signal 335 is generated and/or LED 337 lights as is the case
when fuse 301 blows.
If discrete alarming is desired, then alarm circuit 336 is
connected to interface 330 and alarm circuit 334 is connected to
interface 332 rather than alarm circuit 333 being connected to
interface 331. If both single and discrete alarming are desired,
alarm circuit 333 can be connected to interface 331 as well. If
discrete alarming is implemented, then when fuse 301 blows, current
flows between bus terminal 306 and alarm circuit 336. No current
flows to alarm circuit 334 due to the fuse 301 being blown because
diode 348 prevents current from flowing in that direction through
conductive path 328. Alarm circuit 336 generates a remote alarm
signal 342 and/or lights LED 344 in response to fuse 301
blowing.
Additionally, if discrete alarming is implemented, then when fuse
303 blows, current flows between bus terminal 310 and alarm circuit
334. No current flows to alarm circuit 336 because diode 346
prevents current from flowing in that direction through conductive
path 326. Alarm circuit 334 generates a remote alarm signal 338
and/or lights LED 340 in response to fuse 303 blowing.
FIG. 4 shows a protection and alarm configuration 400 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits circuit
breakers to be used for protection while permitting selection of
discrete alarming for each distribution line or a single alarm
responsive to several of the distribution lines. As previously
discussed, two individual distribution lines are shown to simplify
understanding of the protection and alarm configurations and any
number of distribution lines may be applicable.
The configuration 400 has a first socket 402 and second socket 404.
A circuit breaker 401 located in the first socket 402 channels
current between the bus terminal 406 and terminal 408 that leads to
the downstream device. A circuit breaker 403 located in the second
socket 404 channels current between the bus terminal 410 and the
terminal 412 that leads to another downstream device. Both sockets
may have three alarms connections such as connections 414, 416, and
418 of socket 402 and connections 420, 422, and 424 of socket 404.
However, configuration 400 uses only connections 414, 418, 420, and
424 to provide current to the alarm circuits.
If a single alarm is to be used for several lines, then alarm
circuit 433 is connected to interface 430. When circuit breaker 401
trips, alarm connection 414 is connected to alarm connection 418
and current is established between the voltage source 446 and the
alarm circuit 433. The voltage source 446, which provides negative
voltage as shown in FIG. 4 or alternatively positive voltage,
passes current through conductive path 450 and socket 402 and also
through conductive path 425 when providing power to alarm circuit
433. A diode 449 is included in path 425 and is discussed in more
detail below with reference to configuration 400 being implemented
with discrete alarming. The alarm circuit 433 generates a remote
alarm signal 435 and/or lights LED 437 in response to fuse 401
blowing.
If the single alarm is in use, then when circuit breaker 403 trips,
alarm connection 420 is connected to alarm connection 424 and
current is established between the voltage source 446 and the alarm
circuit 433. The voltage source 446 passes current through
conductive path 450 and socket 404 and also through conductive path
427 when providing power to alarm circuit 433. A diode 451 is
included in path 427 and is discussed in more detail below with
reference to configuration 400 being implemented with discrete
alarming. The alarm circuit 433 generates a remote alarm signal 435
and/or lights LED 437 in response to fuse 403 blowing.
If discrete alarming is to be used for each line, then alarm
circuit 434 is connected to interface 431 and alarm circuit 436 is
connected to interface 432 instead of alarm circuit 433 being
connected to interface 430. If both discrete alarming and a single
alarm are desired, then alarm circuit 433 may also be connected to
interface 430. If discrete alarming is implemented, then when fuse
401 blows, current is established between the voltage source 446
and the alarm circuit 434. Current is provided by the voltage
source 446 through conductive path 450 and conductive path 426.
Diode 451 prevents power from being applied to alarm circuit 436 in
response to fuse 401 blowing. Alarm circuit 434 generates a remote
alarm signal 438 and/or lights LED 440 in response to fuse 401
blowing.
If discrete alarming is implemented, then when fuse 403 blows,
current is established between the voltage source 446 and the alarm
circuit 436. Current is provided by the voltage source 446 through
conductive path 450 and conductive path 428. Diode 449 prevents
power from being applied to alarm circuit 434 in response to fuse
403 blowing. Alarm circuit 436 generates a remote alarm signal 442
and/or lights LED 444 in response to fuse 403 blowing.
FIG. 5 shows a protection and alarm configuration 500 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits fuses and
circuit breakers to be mixed for protection while a single alarm is
responsive to several of the distribution lines. At any given time,
one socket may have a fuse and the other may have a circuit
breaker, both may have fuses, or both may have circuit breakers. As
previously discussed, two individual distribution lines are shown
to simplify understanding of the protection and alarm
configurations and any number of distribution lines may be
applicable.
The configuration 500 includes a socket 502 and a socket 504.
Current from the power distribution bus (not shown) is provided
through a fuse or circuit breaker in socket 502 from the bus
terminal 506 to the terminal 508 that leads to a downstream device.
Current from the power distribution bus is also provided through a
fuse or circuit breaker in socket 504 from the bus terminal 510 to
the terminal 512.
When a circuit breaker is used in the first socket 502, once the
circuit breaker trips, current is established between a voltage
source 546 and an alarm circuit 534 through connections 514 and 518
of socket 502. Current passes through interface 540 connected to
voltage source 546, through conductive paths 548 and 526, and
through interface 530. Conductive path 526 may include a diode 550
that prevents a tripped circuit breaker in socket 504 from
providing voltage from supply 546 to the fuse alarm interface 532
through the first socket 502 when the first socket 502 contains a
non-tripped circuit breaker. Diode 550 is useful where the bus
voltage normally supplied to interface 532 due to a blown fuse is a
different voltage than the supply voltage 546. Alarm circuit 534
generates a remote alarm signal 536 and/or lights LED 538 in
response to a tripped circuit breaker in socket 502.
When a circuit breaker is used in the second socket 504, once the
circuit breaker trips, current is established between the voltage
source 546 and the alarm circuit 534 through connections 520 and
524 of socket 504. Current passes through interface 540 connected
to voltage source 546, through conductive paths 548 and 527, and
through interface 530. Conductive path 527 may include a diode 552
that prevents a tripped circuit breaker in socket 502 from
providing voltage from supply 546 to the fuse alarm interface 532
through the second socket 504 when the second socket contains a
non-tripped circuit breaker. Alarm circuit 534 generates the remote
alarm signal 536 and/or lights LED 538 in response to a tripped
circuit breaker in the second socket 504.
When a fuse is used in the first socket 502, once the fuse has
blown, current is established between the bus and the alarm circuit
534 through connection 516. Current passes through interface 532
and through conductive path 528. Conductive path 528 may include a
diode 554 that prevents a blown fuse in socket 504 from providing
voltage from the bus to the circuit breaker alarm interface 530
through conductive paths 528 and 526 when socket 502 has a
non-tripped circuit breaker. Alarm circuit 534 generates a remote
alarm signal 536 and/or lights LED 538 in response to a blown fuse
in socket 502.
When a fuse is used in the second socket 504, once the fuse has
blown, current is established between the bus and the alarm circuit
534 through connection 522. Current passes through interface 532
and through conductive path 529. Conductive path 529 may include a
diode 556 that prevents a blown fuse in socket 502 from providing
voltage from the bus to the circuit breaker alarm interface 530
through conductive paths 529 and 527 when socket 504 has a
non-tripped circuit breaker. Alarm circuit 534 generates the remote
alarm signal 536 and/or lights LED 538 in response to a blown fuse
in socket 504.
FIG. 6 shows a protection and alarm configuration 600 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits fuses and
circuit breakers to be mixed for protection while discrete alarming
is provided for each distribution line. At any given time, one
socket may have a fuse and the other may have a circuit breaker,
both may have fuses, or both may have circuit breakers. As
previously discussed, two individual distribution lines are shown
to simplify understanding of the protection and alarm
configurations and any number of distribution lines may be
applicable.
The configuration 600 includes a socket 602 and a socket 604.
Current from the power distribution bus (not shown) is provided
through a fuse or circuit breaker in socket 602 from the bus
terminal 606 to the terminal 608 that leads to a downstream device.
Current from the power distribution bus is also provided through a
fuse or circuit breaker in socket 604 from the bus terminal 610 to
the terminal 612.
When a fuse is used in the first socket 602, once the fuse has
blown, current is established between the bus and alarm circuit
634. Current flows through alarm connection 616, through conductive
path 646, and through interface 631. Alarm circuit 634 generates a
remote alarm signal 638 and/or lights LED 640 in response to a
blown fuse in socket 602.
When a fuse is used in the second socket 604, once the fuse has
blown, current is established between the bus and alarm circuit
636. Current flows through alarm connection 622, through conductive
path 648, and through interface 650. Alarm circuit 636 generates a
remote alarm signal 642 and/or lights LED 644 in response to a
blown fuse in socket 604.
When a circuit breaker is used in the first socket 602, once the
circuit breaker trips, current is established between the voltage
source 666 and the alarm circuit 634. Voltage source 666 can
provide a positive or negative voltage. Current flows through
interface 668, through conductive path 628, through alarm
connections 614 and 618, through conductive path 626, and through
interface 630. Alarm circuit 634 generates the remote alarm signal
638 and/or lights LED 640 in response to a tripped circuit breaker
in socket 602.
When a circuit breaker is used in the second socket 604, once the
circuit breaker trips, current is established between the voltage
source 666 and the alarm circuit 636. Current flows through
interface 668, through conductive path 629, through alarm
connections 624 and 620, through conductive path 627, and through
interface 632. Alarm circuit 636 generates the remote alarm signal
642 and/or lights LED 644 in response to a tripped circuit breaker
in socket 604.
FIG. 7 shows a protection and alarm configuration 700 for a power
distribution bus (not shown). This configuration permits fuses and
circuit breakers to be mixed for protection while permitting
selection of discrete alarming for each distribution line or a
single alarm responsive to several of the distribution lines. At
any given time, one socket may have a fuse and the other may have a
circuit breaker, both may have fuses, or both may have circuit
breakers. As previously discussed, two individual distribution
lines are shown to simplify understanding of the protection and
alarm configurations and any number of distribution lines may be
applicable.
The configuration 700 includes a socket 702 and a socket 704.
Current from the power distribution bus (not shown) is provided
through a fuse or circuit breaker in socket 702 from the bus
terminal 706 to the terminal 708 that leads to a downstream device.
Current from the power distribution bus is also provided through a
fuse or circuit breaker in socket 704 from the bus terminal 710 to
the terminal 712.
When discrete alarms are used for each line and a fuse is placed in
socket 702, once the fuse blows, current is established between the
bus and alarm circuit 744. Current flows through alarm connection
716, through conductive path 764, and through interface 770. The
alarm circuit 744 generates a remote alarm signal 748 and/or lights
LED 750 in response to a blown fuse in socket 702.
When discrete alarms are used for each line and a fuse is placed in
socket 704, once the fuse blows, current is established between the
bus and alarm circuit 746. Current flows through the alarm
connection 722, through conductive path 766, and through interface
768. Alarm circuit 746 generates a remote alarm signal 752 and/or
lights LED 754 in response to a blown fuse in socket 704.
When discrete alarms for each line are used and a circuit breaker
is placed in socket 702, once the circuit breaker trips, current is
established between voltage source 788 and alarm circuit 744.
Current flows through interface 790, through conductive path 791,
through alarm connections 718 and 714, through conductive path 726,
and through interface 740. Alarm circuit 744 generates the remote
alarm signal 748 and/or lights LED 750 in response to a tripped
circuit breaker in socket 702.
When discrete alarms for each line are used and a circuit breaker
is placed in socket 704, once the circuit breaker trips, current is
established between the voltage source 788 and alarm circuit 746.
Current flows through interface 790, through conductive path 793,
through alarm connections 724 and 720, through conductive path 728,
and through interface 742. Alarm circuit 746 generates the remote
alarm signal 752 and/or lights LED 754 in response to a tripped
circuit breaker in socket 704.
When a single alarm is used for several lines and a fuse is placed
in socket 702, once the fuse blows, current is established between
the bus and the alarm circuit 734. Current flows through alarm
connection 716, through conductive path 760, and through interface
732. A diode 784 is placed in conductive path 760 to prevent
current from flowing through conductive path 762 to conductive path
726 and alarm circuit 744 when discrete alarming is used and when a
non-tripped circuit breaker is in socket 702 and a blown fuse is in
socket 704. Alarm circuit 734 generates a remote alarm signal 736
and/or lights LED 738 in response to a blown fuse in socket
702.
When a single alarm is used for several lines and a fuse is placed
in socket 704, once the fuse blows, current is established between
the bus and the alarm circuit 734. Current flows through alarm
connection 722, through conductive path 762, and through interface
732. A diode 786 is placed in conductive path 762 to prevent
current from flowing through conductive path 760 to conductive path
762 and alarm circuit 746 when discrete alarming is used and when a
non-tripped circuit breaker is in socket 704 and a blown fuse in
socket 702. Alarm circuit 734 generates the remote alarm signal 736
and/or lights LED 738 in response to a blown fuse in socket
704.
When a single alarm is used for several lines and a circuit breaker
is placed in socket 702, once the circuit breaker trips, current is
established between voltage source 788 and alarm circuit 734.
Current flows through interface 790, through conductive path 791,
through alarm connections 718 and 714, through conductive path 727,
and through interface 730. A diode 756 is placed in conductive path
727 to prevent current from flowing between the voltage source 788
and the alarm circuit 744 when discrete alarming is used with a
tripped circuit breaker in socket 704 and a non-tripped circuit
breaker in socket 702. Alarm circuit 734 generates the remote alarm
signal 736 and/or lights LED 738 in response to a tripped circuit
breaker in socket 702.
When a single alarm is used for several line and a circuit breaker
is placed in socket 704, once the circuit breaker trips, current is
established between voltage source 788 and alarm circuit 734.
Current flows through interface 790, through conductive path 793,
through alarm connections 724 and 720, through conductive path 729,
and through interface 730. A diode 758 is placed in conductive path
729 to prevent current from flowing between the voltage source 788
and the alarm circuit 746 when discrete alarming is used with a
tripped circuit breaker in socket 702 and a non-tripped circuit
breaker in socket 704. Alarm circuit 734 generates the remote alarm
signal 736 and/or lights LED 738 in response to a tripped circuit
breaker in socket 704.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with
reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that various other changes in the form
and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
* * * * *
References