Patent ID: 6175479
Filing Date: 2001-01-16
Classification: H02H

Abstract:
A circuit interrupter for coupling to a distribution line for interrupting the current in said line during current overload conditions, said circuit interrupter having a first input for receiving a signal representative of the current in said line, comprising:a breaker having a first position wherein it interrupts the current path in said line and a second position wherein it completes the current path in said line;an actuator that moves said breaker from said second position to said first position;a first overload detector coupled to said actuator and coupled to said first input, and causing said actuator to move said breaker from said second position to said first position when said signal representative of the current exceeds a first value for a first duration;a second overload detector coupled to said actuator and coupled to said first input, said second overload detector being operational for a second duration beginning substantially when said breaker is moved from said first position to said second position; and,when operational, said second overload detector causes said actuator to move said breaker from said second position to said first position when said signal representative of the current exceed a second value.