Claims:1. A circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system comprising:
a first circuit breaker having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor;
a first current sensor electrically coupled to said first processor; and
a first data communication device configured to transmit, to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay, a restrain signal from said first processor, wherein said first processor is responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting said restrain signal through said first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor.

2. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said second circuit breaker comprises:
a second trip unit having a second processor;
a second current sensor electrically coupled to said second processor; and
a second data communication device operably coupled to receive said restrain signal from said first data communication device, and transmit said restrain signal to said second processor, wherein said second processor is responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any one of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on said restrain signal.

3. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay are associated with a delay in tripping response.

4. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay comprises one or more associated pre-determined settings.

5. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first data communication device comprises a first Radio frequency (RF) module, and the second data communication device comprises a second Radio frequency (RF) module.

6. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said restrain signal is transmitted in wirelessly manner in response to detecting the fault condition with said first current sensor before tripping of the first circuit breaker.

7. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1 further comprises a notification mechanism configured to provide, in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor, at least a notification indicative of an unhealthy condition (fault).

8. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first circuit breaker is an upstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker is a downstream circuit breaker.

9. The circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first circuit breaker is a downstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker is an upstream circuit breaker.

10. A circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system comprising:
a first circuit breaker having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor, a first current sensor electrically coupled to said first processor, and a first data communication device configured to transmit a restrain signal from said first processor, wherein said first processor is responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting wirelessly said restrain signal through said first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor; and
a second circuit breaker having a second trip unit, said second trip unit having a second processor, a second current sensor electrically coupled to said second processor and a second data communication device operably coupled to receive said restrain signal wirelessly from said first data communication device and transmit said restrain signal to said second processor, wherein said second processor is responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on said restrain signal.

11. A first circuit breaker comprising:
a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor, a first current sensor electrically coupled to said first processor, and a first data communication device configured to transmit, to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay, a restrain signal from said first processor, wherein said first processor is responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting said restrain signal through said first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor.
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system providing zone selective interlock between circuit breaker in an electrical power distribution system. In particular, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to relates to a zone selective interlocking (ZSI) system utilizing a wireless restrain signal for earth fault or short circuit protection in air circuit breaker.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] The invention will be illustrated with particular reference to a preferred application in a low-voltage electrical power distribution network, although this is not to be understood as limiting, and in any event the invention applies in general to high, medium and low-voltage networks.
[0004] Air circuit breakers are commonly used in electrical distribution systems. A typical air circuit breaker (“ACB”) comprises an assembly of components for connecting an electrical power source to a consumer of electrical power called a load. The electric circuit the circuit breaker is connected to is referred to herein as the protected electric circuit. The components are referred to as a main contact assembly. In this assembly, a main contact is typically either opened, interrupting a path for power to travel from the source to the load, or closed, providing a path for power to travel from the source to the load. The ACB will further include devices and sensors, referred to as a trip unit, capable of sensing the current flowing through to the protected circuit and comparing the magnitude of the sensed current against predetermined thresholds. The trip unit's thresholds and current magnitude trip characteristics are displayed in a graphical form, commonly referred to as a “trip curve,” which indicates to a user how long the trip unit will take to trip under any given overload condition. Upon detection of an overcurrent fault condition on the protected circuit outside of the trip curve parameters, the trip unit activates the mechanical linkages that cause the main contact assembly to open.
[0005] Downstream from the ACB, other ACBs or, one, or more smaller capacity circuit breakers, sometimes referred to as molded case circuit breakers (“MCCB's”), may be installed to further protect and isolate portions of the electrical distribution system. The MCCB's are available in multiple capacities and are often arranged in tiers or levels, with multiple MCCBs being arranged within each tier. The MCCB's, similar to the air circuit breaker, include a main contact assembly that is opened and closed via a mechanical linkage assembly. A trip unit associated with each MCCB senses current flowing through that portion of the protected circuit. Similar to the ACB, the MCCB utilizes trip curves to determine when a given condition is outside the desired parameters.
[0006] On the other hand coordination assures that continuity of service is maximized during any over-current or ground fault. The circuit breaker nearest to the fault will clear the fault while all other circuit breakers in the system remain closed, which provides continuity of service to the unaffected parts of the system. However, coordination does not reduce the stress on the system caused by the energy generated during a fault. In a coordinated system, longer delays and higher pickups are selected on upstream devices to allow downstream devices to trip first. This selection results in longer trip times because the circuit breakers wait for the selected delay time before tripping. This can expose the system to large amounts of fault stress.
[0007] Since both the ACB and the MCCB react to fault conditions, circumstances may arise where an electrical fault causes both the ACB and MCCB to open their respective contact assemblies simultaneously. In general, it is desirable to have the circuit breaker closest to the fault interrupt the fault current, commonly referred to as tripping, such that the smallest portion of the protected circuit, closest to the fault is interrupted. The portion of the circuit bounded by its source circuit breakers and any circuit breakers exiting the circuit is called the zone of protection for the source circuit breakers. If the zone becomes faulted it is called the faulted zone. Interrupting the fault current close to the fault prevents, or at least minimizes the amount of disruption on other operations connected to other protected circuits. To avoid having the upstream ACB or an upstream MCCB trip, the system of circuit breakers on the protected circuit is coordinated. Through selective coordination, the trip curves of each circuit breaker are adjusted to allow the downstream circuit breaker the opportunity to trip first without jeopardizing the functionality of the circuit breaker system above the faulted zone.
[0008] Zone-selective interlocking (ZSI) is designed to reduce the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions. ZSI in a coordinated system is the best solution to reduce costs associated with both fault stress and power outages. ZSI works with a previously coordinated distribution system to limit fault stress on the system by reducing the time it takes to clear the fault while maintaining system coordination between over-current and ground-fault protective devices. In order to maximize coordination, downstream branch devices should operate very fast, with no intentional delay, and main devices should delay operation so that the downstream devices can clear the fault. Zone selective interlocking (ZSI) systems have been available in the electrical power distribution industry for many years. The standard electrical power system protection provides selective-protective coordination between an upstream (main) breaker and the downstream (feeder) breakers. Thus, in the event of a fault (e.g. a short circuit, ground fault or an overload) the standard protection system selectively coordinates the upstream and downstream breakers so that the nearest downstream breaker will clear the fault before the upstream breaker opens. Therefore, because a downstream breaker nearest to the fault clears the fault a minimal number of feeders are de-energized.
[0009] Efforts have been made in related art to address above stated problem by using ZSI system. An example of such ZSI system is recited in a United States Patent 20080198521, entitled “Circuit Breaker Trip Unit with Zone Selective Interlock and System Monitoring”. The patent discloses a zone-selective-interlocking system for an electrical power distribution system that has at least one upstream breaker and at least one downstream breaker is provided. Each breaker in the power distribution system has a zone-selective-interlocking circuit that includes a zone-selective-interlocking-input circuit and a zone-selective-output circuit. The zone-selective-interlocking system also includes a monitoring device to monitor the voltage sent from the zone-selective-interlocking-output circuit of the at least one downstream breaker to the zone-selective-interlocking-input circuit of the at least one upstream breaker and determine whether there is a proper or improper connection between the upstream and downstream breaker and whether the downstream breaker is sending a restraint signal to the upstream breaker.
[00010] However, since the upstream and downstream breakers are connected in parallel, the supply with actual fault is detected by firstly by downstream breaker only, and before getting the ZSI restrain signal from downstream breaker, the upstream breaker can trips itself. There is also a possibility of miss out the restrain signal in case of wired based connection from downstream to upstream breakers. Due to this when upstream breaker senses the fault it can trip. Further, if it is a distance between the downstream to upstream breakers increases, the ultimate speed of restrain signal goes down, due to this restrain signal will not get within required time, because of which both downstream and upstream breakers will get trip. Further, in case of implementation of the restrain signal using wired connection between downstream and upstream breakers, the cost and power consumption goes very high. Furthermore, the conventional ZSI system can get bulky and very complex due to wiring of multiple restrain signals.
[00011] While existing circuit breakers coordinated using cascaded time delays are suitable for their intended purposes, there still remains a need for improvements particularly regarding the speed of the circuit breakers protecting electrical circuits, and to minimize damage and risk it is important to interrupt a fault as fast as possible.
[00012] Whereas there is certainly nothing wrong with existing techniques or ZSI system, nonetheless, there still exists a need to provide an efficient, effective, reliable, and improved radio frequency (RF) module based ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during fault conditions.
[00013] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[00014] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about”. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[00015] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00016] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00017] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[00018] An object of the present disclosure is to provide to a wireless zone selective interlocking (ZSI) system for air circuit breakers.
[00019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide radio frequency (RF) module based technique or ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for ZSI earth fault (EF) or short circuit (SC) scheme for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions.
[00020] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a ZSI system that is completely automatic since restrain signals send or receive via RF technique.
[00021] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a ZSI system that permit electronic trip devices to communicate with each other by using RF transreciever module for restrain signal in between downstream and upstream breakers.
[00022] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a ZSI system to eliminate intentional delay, without sacrificing coordination, resulting in faster tripping times.
[00023] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a ZSI system by using wireless restrain signal in between upstream and downstream breakers to reduce the unwantedly tripped breakers.

SUMMARY
[00024] The present disclosure relates to a system providing zone selective interlock between circuit breaker in an electrical power distribution system. In particular, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to relates to a zone selective interlocking (ZSI) system utilizing a wireless restrain signal for earth fault or short circuit protection in air circuit breaker.
[00025] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an efficient, effective, reliable, improved zone- selective-interlocking (ZSI) system. Further, the ZSI system according to the embodiments uses wireless restrain signal in between upstream breakers and downstream breakers for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards.
[00026] Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure relates to a circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system. In an aspect, the ZSI system can include a first circuit breaker, a first current sensor, and a first data communication device. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor.
[00027] In an aspect, the second circuit breaker can include a second trip, a second current sensor and a second data communication device. In another aspect, the second trip unit having a second processor and the second current sensor electrically can be coupled to the second processor. In another aspect, the second data communication device operably can be coupled to receive said restrain signal from the first data communication device, and transmit the restrain signal to said second processor. In another aspect, the second processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any one of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on the restrain signal.
[00028] In an aspect, the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay can be associated with a delay in tripping response.
[00029] In an aspect, the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay can include an associated pre-determined setting.
[00030] In an aspect, the first data communication device can include a first Radio frequency (RF) module, and the second data communication device can include a second Radio frequency (RF) module.
[00031] In an aspect, the restrain signal can be transmitted in wirelessly manner in response to detecting the fault condition with the first current sensor before tripping of the first circuit breaker.
[00032] In an aspect, the ZSI system further can include a notification mechanism to provide, at least a notification indicative of an unhealthy condition (fault), in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor.
[00033] In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can be an upstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker can be a downstream circuit breaker. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker can be a downstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker can be an upstream circuit breaker.
[00034] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system. In an aspect, the ZSI system can include a first circuit breaker and a second circuit breaker. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker can include a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor. In another aspect, the second circuit breaker can include a second trip, a second current sensor and a second data communication device. In another aspect, the second trip unit having a second processor and the second current sensor electrically can be coupled to the second processor. In another aspect, the second data communication device operably can be coupled to receive said restrain signal from the first data communication device, and transmit the restrain signal to said second processor. In another aspect, the second processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any one of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on the restrain signal.
[00035] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a first circuit breaker. In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can include a first circuit breaker, a first current sensor, and a first data communication device. In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor.
[00036] In contrast to the conventional ZSI system, the present disclosure illustrates a radio frequency (RF) module based technique or ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for ZSI earth fault (EF) or short circuit (SC) scheme for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions. Further, in contrast to the existing ZSI system, the present invention provides wireless ZSI restrain signal to Trans-receive in between upstream and downstream Breakers according to fault current. Furthermore, in contrast to the existing ZSI system, the present invention reduces the unwantedly tripped breakers in ZSI scheme by using wireless restrain signal in between upstream and downstream breakers. Unlike the existing ZSI system, the present invention provides electrical system with low cost and completely automatic since restrain signals can send or receive via RF technique.
[00037] Further, in contrast to the existing conventional ZSI system, the present invention provides the ZSI system permits electronic trip devices to communicate with each other by using RF transreciever module for restrain signal in between downstream and upstream Breakers. So that a short circuit or ground fault can be isolated and cleared by the nearest circuit breaker with no intentional time delay. Furthermore, in the present invention speed of ZSI restrains signaling can increase between upstream and downstream breakers.
[00038] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00039] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and wherein:
[00040] FIGs. 1-2 illustrate a circuit Diagram of RF transreciever module for ZSI restrain signal, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00041] FIG. 3 illustrates a block Diagram of wireless ZSI system for ACB MTX release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00042] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of ZSI system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00043] FIG. 5 illustrates flowchart of downstream release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00044] FIG. 6 illustrates flowchart of downstream release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00045] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[00046] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[00047] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[00048] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[00049] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
[00050] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[00051] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[00052] The present disclosure relates to a system providing zone selective interlock between circuit breaker in an electrical power distribution system. In particular, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to relates to a zone selective interlocking (ZSI) system utilizing a wireless restrain signal for earth fault or short circuit protection in air circuit breaker.
[00053] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an efficient, effective, reliable, improved zone- selective-interlocking (ZSI) system. Further, the ZSI system according to the embodiments uses wireless restrain signal in between upstream breakers and downstream breakers for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards.
[00054] Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure relates to a circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system. In an aspect, the ZSI system can include a first circuit breaker, a first current sensor, and a first data communication device. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor.
[00055] In an aspect, the second circuit breaker can include a second trip, a second current sensor and a second data communication device. In another aspect, the second trip unit having a second processor and the second current sensor electrically can be coupled to the second processor. In another aspect, the second data communication device operably can be coupled to receive said restrain signal from the first data communication device, and transmit the restrain signal to said second processor. In another aspect, the second processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any one of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on the restrain signal.
[00056] In an aspect, the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay can be associated with a delay in tripping response.
[00057] In an aspect, the short circuit fault tripping delay and the ground-fault tripping delay can include an associated pre-determined setting.
[00058] In an aspect, the first data communication device can include a first Radio frequency (RF) module, and the second data communication device can include a second Radio frequency (RF) module.
[00059] In an aspect, the restrain signal can be transmitted in wirelessly manner in response to detecting the fault condition with the first current sensor before tripping of the first circuit breaker.
[00060] In an aspect, the ZSI system further can include a notification mechanism to provide, at least a notification indicative of an unhealthy condition (fault), in response to detecting a fault condition with said first current sensor.
[00061] In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can be an upstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker can be a downstream circuit breaker. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker can be a downstream circuit breaker and the second circuit breaker can be an upstream circuit breaker.
[00062] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a circuit breaker zone selective interlock (ZSI) system. In an aspect, the ZSI system can include a first circuit breaker and a second circuit breaker. In another aspect, the first circuit breaker can include a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor. In another aspect, the second circuit breaker can include a second trip, a second current sensor and a second data communication device. In another aspect, the second trip unit having a second processor and the second current sensor electrically can be coupled to the second processor. In another aspect, the second data communication device operably can be coupled to receive said restrain signal from the first data communication device, and transmit the restrain signal to said second processor. In another aspect, the second processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any one of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on the restrain signal.
[00063] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a first circuit breaker. In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can include a first circuit breaker, a first current sensor, and a first data communication device. In an aspect, the first circuit breaker can having a first trip unit, said first trip unit having a first processor. In another aspect, the first current sensor electrically can be coupled to the first processor. In another aspect, a first data communication device can transmit a restrain signal from the first processor to a second circuit breaker, in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay. In another aspect, the first processor can be responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting the restrain signal through the first data communication device in response to detecting a fault condition with the first current sensor.
[00064] In contrast to the conventional ZSI system, the present disclosure illustrates a radio frequency (RF) module based technique or ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for ZSI earth fault (EF) or short circuit (SC) scheme for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions. Further, in contrast to the existing ZSI system, the present invention provides wireless ZSI restrain signal to Trans-receive in between upstream and downstream Breakers according to fault current. Unlike the existing ZSI system, the present invention provides electrical system with low cost and completely automatic since restrain signals can send or receive via RF technique.
[00065] Further, in contrast to the existing conventional ZSI system, the present invention provides the ZSI system permits electronic trip devices to communicate with each other by using RF transreciever module for restrain signal in between downstream and upstream Breakers. So that a short circuit or ground fault can be isolated and cleared by the nearest circuit breaker with no intentional time delay.
[00066] FIG. 1 illustrates a circuit Diagram of RF transreciever module for ZSI restrain signal, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates RF transmitter interface with downstream breaker.
[00067] As shown in FIG. 1 the downstream release based on fault current and downstream release can send earth fault (EF) or short circuit (SC) restrain signal via RF transmitter to up-stream release with breaker.
[00068] In the conventional ZSI schemes, restrain signals can be Trans-received via wired, but such wired technique is very costly and bulky as well limitation of distance between downstream to upstream breakers. In contrast to this, the proposed invention includes a RF module based ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for ZSI EF or SC scheme for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions.
[00069] In an exemplary embodiment, TX frequency range is 433.92 MHz. In an exemplary embodiment, TX supply voltage is 3V ~ 6V. In an exemplary embodiment, TX output power is 4 ~ 12 Dbm.
[00070] FIG. 2 illustrates a circuit Diagram of RF transreciever module for ZSI restrain signal, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates RF transmitter interface with downstream breaker. FIG. 1 illustrates RF receiver interface with upstream breaker.
[00071] As shown in FIG. 2 at upstream breaker, earth faults (EF) or short circuit (SC) restrain signal can receive via RF receiver. According to restrain signal upstream breaker can take further action. In an exemplary embodiment, RX receiver can have frequency 433 MHz. In an exemplary embodiment, RX Typical Sensitivity is 105 Dbm. In an exemplary embodiment, RX supply current is 3.5 mA. In an exemplary embodiment, RX IF Frequency is 1MHz. in an exemplary embodiment, RX Operating Voltage is 5V.
[00072] FIG. 3 illustrates a block Diagram of wireless ZSI system for ACB MTX release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates the block diagram of the general interfacing of wireless ZSI system for Air circuit breaker in electrical distribution system.
[00073] In an embodiment, ZSI can allow electronic trip devices to communicate with each other by using RF transreciever module for restrain signal in between downstream and upstream breakers. So that a short circuit or ground fault can be isolated and cleared by the nearest circuit breaker with no intentional time delay.
[00074] In an embodiment, devices in all other areas of the system (including upstream) can remain closed to maintain service to unaffected loads. Without ZSI, a coordinated system results in the circuit breaker closest to the fault clearing the fault, but usually with an intentional delay. With ZSI, the device closest to the fault will ignore its preset short-time and/or ground fault delays and clear the fault with no intentional delay. Zone-selective interlocking eliminates intentional delay, without sacrificing Coordination, resulting in faster tripping times. This limits fault stress by reducing the amount of let-through energy the system is subjected to during an overcurrent.
[00075] As shown in FIG. 3, the ZSI system 300 can include the upstream breaker 1 302-1 and downstream breaker 1 306-1 and downstream breaker n 306-n. In an exemplary embodiment, the upstream breaker 1 302-1 having a trip unit (not shown), said trip unit (not shown) having a processor (not shown). In an exemplary embodiment, the upstream breaker 1 302-1 electrically can be coupled to the RF transreciever module 304-1 to transmit a restrain signal from the processor, wherein the processor is responsive to executable computer instructions for transmitting wirelessly said restrain signal through the RF transreciever module 304-1 in response to detecting a fault condition with said current sensor. In another exemplary embodiment, the downstream breaker 1 306-1 and/ or downstream breaker n 306-n having a second trip unit, said second trip unit having a second processor. In an exemplary embodiment, the downstream breaker 1 304-1 electrically can be coupled to the RF transreciever module 304-2 to receive said restrain signal wirelessly from said first data communication device or RF transreciever module 302-1 and transmit said restrain signal to said second processor, wherein said second processor is responsive to executable computer instructions in order to maintain any or a combination of a short circuit fault tripping delay and a ground-fault tripping delay based on said restrain signal.
[00076] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of ZSI system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00077] As shown in FIG. 4, when Fault occurs at point A, downstream breaker no. 2 can send a restrain signal to upstream breaker no. 1 and clears the fault with no intentional delay. As the upstream breaker no. 1 can receive a restrain signal it maintains the short circuit fault tripping delay or the ground-fault tripping delay to which it is set at.
[00078] As shown in FIG. 4, fault occurs at point B; upstream breaker no. 1 can detect the fault. In the absence of restraint signal from a downstream breaker, the set time delay is not taken into account and the device trips instantaneously. If it is connected to any breaker in further upstream, it sends a restraint signal to that device, which delays tripping according to its short circuit or ground fault delay setting. In unhealthy condition it gives alarm signal to user with the help of indication devices.
[00079] FIG. 5 illustrates flowchart of downstream release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00080] At step 502, initially all modules and peripheral initialized.
[00081] At step 504, initialize RF module for restrain signal of ZSI EF (Earth Fault) or SC (Short Circuit) scheme.
[00082] At step 506, scheduler starts to execute the all task with priority.
[00083] At step 508, the trip unit can display the metering value on the display module as per input parameter like currents and voltages.
[00084] At step 510, EF OR SC fault current can be detected.
[00085] At step 512, SOUT or GOUT restrain signal can send upstream breaker.
[00086] At step 514, trip command can send to flux shift device (FSD) for breaker open to clear the fault.
[00087] At step 516, breaker can open to clear the fault based on received trip command.
[00088] FIG. 6 illustrates flowchart of downstream release with breaker, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00089] At step 602, initially all modules and peripheral initialized.
[00090] At step 604, initialize RF module for restrain signal of ZSI EF (Earth Fault) or SC (Short Circuit) scheme.
[00091] At step 606, scheduler starts to execute the all task with priority.
[00092] At step 608, the trip unit can display the metering value on the display module as per input parameter like currents and voltages.
[00093] At step 610, EF OR SC fault current can be detected.
[00094] At step 612, SI or GI restrain signal can be detected.
[00095] At step 614, SOUT or GOUT restrain signal can send upstream breaker.
[00096] At step 616, trip command can send to flux shift device (FSD) for breaker open to clear the fault.
[00097] At step 618, breaker can open to clear the fault based on received trip command.
[00098] It should be appreciated that the zone selective interlock system and method for coordination of a circuit breaker system in the event of an electrical fault in the instantaneous region described herein provides advantages to the design, operation and maintenance of the electrical distribution network. The system and method allows the trip curves to be customized by the operator to provide coordination functions in the manner desired for the application. The system and method also provides advantages in a faster response time by the upstream breaker in the event of a high level fault. The system and method further provide advantages in maintaining desired functionality of the circuit breaker system as the electrical distribution system and its attached loads change over time.
[00099] The capabilities of the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in software, firmware, hardware or some combination thereof. As one example, one or more aspects of the embodiments disclosed can be included in an article of manufacture (e.g., one or more computer program products) having, for instance, computer usable media. The media has embodied therein, for instance, computer readable program code means for providing and facilitating the capabilities of the present invention. The article of manufacture can be included as a part of a computer system or sold separately. Additionally, at least one program storage device readable by a machine, tangibly embodying at least one program of instructions executable by the machine to perform the capabilities of the disclosed embodiments can be provided.
[000100] Further, the diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be many variations to these diagrams or the steps (or operations) described therein without departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps may be added, deleted or modified. All of these variations are considered a part of the claimed invention. This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
[000101] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
[000102] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the appended claims.
[000103] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.
[000104] In the description of the present specification, reference to the term "one embodiment," "an embodiments", "an example", "an instance", or "some examples" and the description is meant in connection with the embodiment or example described The particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic included in the present invention, at least one embodiment or example. In the present specification, the term of the above schematic representation is not necessarily for the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features structures, materials, or characteristics described in any one or more embodiments or examples in proper manner. Moreover, those skilled in the art can be described in the specification of different embodiments or examples are joined and combinations thereof.
[000105] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
[000106] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
[000107] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.
[000108] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[000109] The present disclosure a wireless zone-selective-interlocking (ZSI) system for air circuit breakers.
[000110] The present disclosure provides radio frequency (RF) module based technique or ZSI system using wireless restrain signal for ZSI earth fault (EF) or short circuit (SC) scheme for avoiding electrical fatalism or hazards and reduces the stress on electrical distribution equipment during short-circuit or ground-fault conditions.
[000111] The present disclosure provides a ZSI system that is completely automatic since restrain signals send or receive via RF technique.
[000112] The present disclosure provides a ZSI system that permit electronic trip devices to communicate with each other by using RF transreciever module for restrain signal in between downstream and upstream breakers.
[000113] The present invention provides a ZSI system to eliminate intentional delay, without sacrificing coordination, resulting in faster tripping times.
[000114] The present disclosure provides a ZSI system by using wireless restrain signal in between upstream and downstream breakers to reduce the unwantedly tripped breakers.
[000115] The present disclosure provides wireless ZSI restrain signal Trans-receive in between upstream and downstream breakers according to fault current.
[000116] The present disclosure reduces the unwantedly tripped breakers in ZSI scheme by using wireless restrain signal in between upstream and downstream breakers.
The present disclosure provides speed of ZSI restrains signaling increase between upstream and downstream breakers.