Patent Description:
In <CIT> there is disclosed a circuit interrupter as it is defined in the pre-characterizing portion of claim <NUM>.

Electrical switching apparatus such as circuit interrupters and, in particular, circuit breakers, are well known in the art. See, for example, <CIT>. Circuit interrupters provide overcurrent protection devices used for circuit protection and isolation. The circuit breaker provides electrical protection whenever an electric abnormality occurs. For example, Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are among a variety of overcurrent protection devices used for circuit protection and isolation. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters reduce fire hazards in electrical circuits by reducing the effects of high current arcing faults (parallel arcs) as well as detecting persistent low-current arcing faults (series arcs). Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters reduce the potential of electrical shock. Dual purpose AFCl/GFCI breakers are available which provide GFCI protection and AFCI protection as combination type breakers from Eaton Corporation. The circuit interrupters can provide conventional thermal and magnetic overcurrent protection.

In a typical circuit breaker, current enters the system from a power line and passes through a line conductor to a stationary contact fixed on the line conductor, then to a movable contact. The movable contact is fixedly attached to a pivoting arm. Arc chutes can be used to direct an arc away from the electrical contacts into the arc chute. The arc chute is situated proximate to the stationary contact of the circuit. As long as the stationary and movable contacts are in physical contact, current passes between the stationary contact and the movable contact and out of the circuit breaker to down-line electrical devices.

In the event of an overcurrent condition (e.g., a short circuit), extremely high electromagnetic forces can be generated. The electromagnetic forces can be used to separate the movable contact from the stationary contact. Upon separation of the contacts and blowing open the circuit, an arcing condition occurs. The breaker's trip unit will trip the breaker which will cause the contacts to separate. Also, arcing can occur during normal "ON/OFF" operations of the breaker.

Lock out and tag out (LOTO), also known as "Lock & Tag" is an important part of safety procedures. Conventionally, one or more physical external keyed locks and an external notification/warning tag are applied to a piece of electrical distribution equipment in a manner that precludes energy from reaching equipment. As is well known to those of skill in the art, an example of a physical lock used for LOTO is a mechanical trapped key interlock such as the Kirk® trapped key interlock from Kirk Key Interlock Company, North Canton, Ohio, that is placed on a circuit breaker to prevent its internal contacts from closing (and thus, energization).

The present invention is a circuit interrupter as it is defined in claim <NUM>. The circuit interrupter comprises an electronically activatable lock-out lock that can be selectively operated to move to a locked-out position.

Embodiments of the invention generate and use virtual and/or electronic keys rather than requiring physical keys.

Embodiments of the invention can control movement of at least one lock-out lock based on electronic verification(s) that allow only the user initiating the lock-out state to remove the lock-out state and move the lock-out lock to an unlocked position.

Embodiments of the invention can provide electronically operated lock(s) to provide a lock-out state without requiring a physical key of a keyed interlock.

Embodiments of the invention are directed to circuit interrupters with an electronic lock out tag out system that controls a lock-out lock that is actuatable to move between locked and unlocked positions. When in the locked position, the lock blocks the circuit interrupter from being energized, such as blocking movement of an external switch handle to an ON position) so that an installed circuit interrupter does not allow current conduction between a line and a load side when the circuit interrupter is in a lock out tag out state. When in the unlocked position, the lock allows the circuit interrupter to be energized and/or allows the switch handle to move to an ON position.

The circuit interrupters of the present invention include a housing with a line side and a load side; a switch handle coupled to the housing; and an electronically operable lock comprising a lock member coupled to the housing configured to electronically controllably travel between a first position and a second position. In the second position, the lock member is in a lock-out position and prevents the handle from moving to an ON position associated with electrical current conduction, and in the first position, the lock member is in a position that allows the handle to move to the ON position.

In accordance with the present invention, the circuit interrupter further comprises a display held by the housing, and at least one processor in the housing in communication with a primary trip solenoid and the lock, wherein, when the lock member is in the second position, the display displays visual indicia of a lock out tag out status of the circuit interrupter, optionally with a "DO NOT OPERATE" warning and a name of a person placing the circuit interrupter in the lock out tag out status.

The lock can have a lock solenoid that is spaced apart from a primary trip solenoid.

The lock can travel in a direction that is toward the handle to move to the second position and travels in an opposing direction that is inward away from the handle to move to the first position.

The lock can travel in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction of travel of the primary trip solenoid.

The circuit interrupter can include a transceiver that communicates with the trip unit and at least one mobile device to deploy the lock-out lock to move either to the first or the second position.

The at least one mobile device can comprise and/or be in communication with an APP that communicates with one or more circuit interrupters to control actuation of the lock-out lock to move to the locked and unlocked positions.

The at least one lock-out lock can comprise a lock-out solenoid that can be part of a trip unit of the circuit interrupter.

The lock member of the lock can physically block the handle from moving and provides a force that resists manual movement of the handle in a range of <NUM>,<NUM> N (<NUM> lbf (foot pounds)) to <NUM>,<NUM> kN (<NUM> lbf (foot pounds)) when in the locked-out position.

The circuit interrupter can further include a position sensor coupled to the housing configured to confirm whether the lock member is in the second position.

The lock member can be configured to controllably move to the first position and/or the second position in response to activation of an actuator of the lock member by one or more defined electronic keys transmitted to a component of or coupled to (e.g., a trip unit of) the circuit interrupter by a user.

The circuit interrupter can further include a transceiver held by or in the housing and in communication with the lock member. The transceiver can be configured to receive control signals from a first mobile device of a first user to cause the lock member to move to the second position.

The transceiver can be configured to receive control signals from a mobile device of a user and can be configured to only allow the lock member to move to the second position if the user is the first user and/or the mobile device is the first mobile device to thereby provide additional layer of safety for removing the lock out status by only the original, first user.

The primary trip solenoid and the lock member can be provided as components of a trip unit in the housing. The trip unit can include a communications interface with a display and can be configured to communicate with a communications bus of an electrical distribution system.

The trip unit can further include: a printed circuit board coupled to at least one processor and a movable contact arm.

The circuit interrupter can be configured to wirelessly communicate with a mobile device comprising and/or in communication with an APP to provide a digital key to control movement of the lock member.

The circuit interrupter can be configured to require multiple electronic keys before electronically directing the lock member to move from the second position to the first position.

Further features, advantages and details of the present invention will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art from a reading of the figures and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments that follow, such description being merely illustrative of the present invention.

It is noted that aspects of the invention described with respect to one embodiment, may be incorporated in a different embodiment although not specifically described relative thereto. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination within the scope of the appended claims. These and other objects and/or aspects of the present invention are explained in detail in the specification set forth below.

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements and different embodiments of like elements can be designated using a different number of superscript indicator apostrophes (e.g., <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>"').

In the drawings, the relative sizes of regions or features may be exaggerated for clarity. The term "Fig." (whether in all capital letters or not) is used interchangeably with the word "Figure" as an abbreviation thereof in the specification and drawings. In the figures, certain layers, components or features may be exaggerated for clarity, and broken lines illustrate optional features or operations unless specified otherwise. In addition, the sequence of operations (or steps) is not limited to the order presented in the claims unless specifically indicated otherwise.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath", "below", "bottom", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass orientations of above, below and behind. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated <NUM>° or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The term "about" refers to numbers in a range of +/-<NUM>% of the noted numerical value.

As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "comprises," "including" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to circuit interrupters with electronic lock out tag out systems configured to prevent energization or conduction of electrical current between line and load sides during servicing, for example. The figures illustrate circuit breakers as an example circuit interrupter but embodiments of the present invention may be useful for other circuit interrupters including fused disconnect switches, for example.

The term "APP" refers to a computer program configured to provide defined functionality on a computer including pervasive computing devices and/or mobile devices such as an electronic notebook or notepad, smart phone, laptop, and the like. In some embodiments, the functionality of the APP may be accessible via an icon on a display of the computer and/or may be accessed by other user input, such as input provided by a typed or spoken user interface of the computer. The computer program may comprise computer program code configured to reside in a memory of the computer to be accessed and executed by a processor or other computing circuit of the computer, but the embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the computer program code, processor, and/or memory may be located remotely from the computer providing the functionality, such as in a networked environment, or "cloud.

As employed herein, the term "processor" shall mean a programmable analog and/or digital device that can store, retrieve, and process data; a computer; a workstation; a personal computer; a digital signal processor (DSP); a microprocessor; a microcontroller; a microcomputer; a central processing unit; a mainframe computer; a mini-computer; a server; a networked processor; a programmable logic device (PLD); a combination of a plurality of logic gates; or any suitable processing device or apparatus.

As employed herein, the terms "electronic key" and "digital key" are used interchangeably and mean a defined electronic alphanumeric code that is associated with a respective user. The digital key can be a unique identity code associated with a mobile device of a respective user, such as, for example, an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) and/or an IP address. The digital key can be provided by an APP or other electronic key generation and/or identity verification system. The digital key can be provided by an authorized user database and/or user access system in communication with an authorized user database. The digital key can be provided to an internal lock-out interlock system of a circuit breaker and/or external and coupled to the circuit breaker via a communications interface including, for example, a Bluetooth communication connection with a respective mobile device. The digital key can be entered via a Human Machine Interface (HMI) such as via a display user interface or a keypad or reader input of the circuit breaker.

As employed herein, the term "trip unit style" shall mean a particular trip unit style corresponding to a particular style identifier; a particular trip unit style corresponding to a particular communication message structure for settings, real-time data and/or event data; or a particular trip unit manufacturing configuration that determines the capabilities of the trip unit. A given style trip unit has a non-varying structure for settings, real-time data or event data. Non-limiting examples of style differences include number of poles, ground fault capabilities, IEC vs. IEEE curves, and maintenance mode capable.

Example embodiments are described in association with a four-pole circuit breaker, although the disclosed concept is applicable to electrical switching apparatus having any number of poles.

Turning now to <FIG>, example electrical distribution systems <NUM> are shown. The systems <NUM> comprise a plurality of circuit interrupters <NUM> such as circuit breakers 15b. The circuit interrupters <NUM> each comprise a trip unit <NUM>. Generally stated, and as is well known to those of skill in the art, the circuit interrupters each have separable main contacts that may be operated either manually by way of a switch handle <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed on the outside of the case or automatically in response to an overcurrent condition. The switch handle <NUM> can move vertically between ON and OFF positions or may be a rotary handle that rotates circumferentially at least <NUM> degrees between the ON and OFF positions. Typically, the circuit interrupters <NUM> include an operating mechanism, which is designed to rapidly open and close the separable main contacts. The circuit interrupters <NUM> can each include a trip unit <NUM>, which senses overcurrent conditions in an automatic mode of operation. Upon sensing an overcurrent condition, the trip unit <NUM> trips the operating mechanism to a trip state, which moves the separable contacts to their open position. The term "trip unit" is well known to those of skill in the art and refers to certain components in the circuit interrupter <NUM>, including a microprocessor <NUM>, power supply <NUM> (<FIG>) and circuitry that control a trip actuator (solenoid) <NUM> (<FIG>) that causes main contacts to separate and monitors for current and voltage signals, for example. See, e.g., <CIT> for examples of trip units <NUM>.

The microprocessor <NUM> can be configured to, inter alia, monitor for and/or detect various types of overcurrent trip conditions and to provide various protection functions, such as, for example, a long delay trip, a short delay trip, an instantaneous trip, and/or a ground fault trip. See, for example, <CIT>; <CIT>; and<CIT>.

Each circuit interrupter <NUM> can include at least one lock-out lock <NUM> configured to allow a user to electronically direct the lock-out lock <NUM> to move to a locked position from an unlocked position to provide a lock out tag out (LOTO) state of the circuit interrupter <NUM>. In the locked position, the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> prevents the circuit interrupter <NUM> from being energized, e.g., prevents the main contacts from closing. The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can be configured to physically block a switch handle <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG>) coupled to the circuit interrupter <NUM> from being able to move to an ON position (associated with conduction) when in the locked position.

The switch handle <NUM> can extend outwardly from a housing <NUM> of the circuit interrupter <NUM>. As is well known to those of skill in the art, when the circuit interrupter <NUM> is a circuit breaker 15b (<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>), the housing <NUM> can also enclose the stationary contact and the movable arm <NUM> (<FIG>) with the movable contact and other circuit breaker components.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can be positioned and configured to directly physically block this switch handle <NUM> in a locked state.

The switch handle <NUM> can reside inside a cabinet <NUM> of a power distribution system (<FIG>) and can couple to an externally accessible switch handle <NUM> that can be accessible via a cover of the cabinet <NUM> (<FIG>) and the handles <NUM>, <NUM> can move in concert. The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can directly block/couple to the externally accessible switch handle <NUM> in the locked state, which, in turn, blocks the internal switch handle <NUM> from movement in the locked state. The cabinet <NUM> can hold a plurality of circuit interrupters <NUM> between feeder sections <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> (<FIG>) and some or all can include the at least one electronically operable lock-out lock <NUM>. For examples of cabinets with buckets having circuit interrupters and cooperating internal and external switch handles, see, e.g., <CIT> (see, e.g., <FIG>).

The at least one electronically operable lock-out lock <NUM> can be configured to provide an anti-rotational force against the handle <NUM> and/or handle <NUM> that cannot easily, if at all, be overcome by manual brute force of a user's hand attempting to move the handle to the ON position when the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> is engaged. In some example embodiments, this force "F" can be in a range of <NUM>,<NUM> N to <NUM>,<NUM> kN ((<NUM> lbf to <NUM>,<NUM> lbf ("lbf" refers to "foot pounds")).

Each circuit interrupter <NUM> can also include at least one position sensor <NUM> that can provide data to confirm that the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> is fully deployed to the proper, secure, locked position. The at least one position sensor <NUM> can be coupled to the communications interface <NUM> or other circuitry for providing confirmation of position to the dashboard <NUM> and/or the mobile device <NUM>. The at least one position sensor <NUM> can comprise a proximity sensor, a (digital) camera, an optical sensor such as an optical encoder, a potentiometer, an LVDT, a capacitive linear electrode or other position sensor or combinations of different types of position sensors.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can comprise and/or be an internal lock-out lock <NUM> that resides entirely or partially inside the housing <NUM> of the circuit interrupter <NUM>.

The circuit interrupter <NUM> may also comprise a display <NUM>. When the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> is moved to the locked position, the display <NUM> can present visual indicia <NUM> that identifies a lock out state such as a warning, icon or other visual and/or textual data identifying the lock out state. The trip unit <NUM> can be configured to automatically cause the display <NUM> to display the visual indicia <NUM> responsive to the lock-out lock <NUM> being moved to the locked position. The visual indicia <NUM> can provide a textual and/or graphic display output to the display <NUM> such as a textual "DO NOT OPERATE" indicia and/or a textual "WARNING" indicia and/or a defined graphic visual, optionally over a background of red diagonal lines.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> may be configured to operate in response to verification/input of an electronic key to thereby allow only a user that electronically initiated the LOTO state of the circuit interrupter <NUM> to electronically remove that state. Upon receipt/input of the electronic (digital) key, the circuit interrupter <NUM> can electronically direct an actuator 28a (<FIG>, <FIG>) that is coupled to the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to move/actuate to move the associated lock member <NUM> to the unlocked position as will be discussed further below.

The circuit interrupters <NUM> can communicate with at least one dashboard <NUM> over a communication bus <NUM>. The dashboard <NUM> can comprise a display that illustrates operational status of virtual circuit interrupters 15v corresponding to the actual circuit interrupters <NUM>.

The communication bus <NUM> can be hard wired to the dashboard <NUM> via a communications cable <NUM> and/or may wirelessly communicate with the dashboard <NUM>. The communications bus <NUM> can comprise a Modbus® configuration or other communications bus configuration.

In some embodiments, each circuit interrupter <NUM> can comprise a communications interface <NUM> that can communicate with the dashboard <NUM>. The communications interface <NUM> can be coupled to a dashboard <NUM> via a communication bus <NUM>.

The system <NUM> can optionally include a database <NUM> that correlates different (authorized) users to different electronic identifiers. The database <NUM> can reside at least partially in the dashboard <NUM> or remotely in one or more servers. The circuit interrupter <NUM> can be configured to electronically identify a user that initiates the lock-out state and provide a name of the user to the display <NUM>, as well as a date that the lock-out state is made. The name and/or date can also be transmitted to the dashboard <NUM>. The database <NUM> can be configured to generate a one-time digital lock out key and/or a digital unlock key that may have a defined time limit before expiring. The time limit may be in minutes, hours or one (<NUM>) or more days.

The communications interface <NUM> of each circuit interrupter <NUM> can comprise a transceiver 32t.

In some embodiments, the transceiver 32t that can wirelessly communicate with a mobile communications device <NUM> of a user (service or installation personnel, for example) to direct the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to move to the locked position or the unlocked position.

Referring to <FIG>, a schematic illustration of an example circuit interrupter <NUM> showing certain circuit components facilitating the electronic lock-out system is shown. As shown, the circuit interrupter <NUM> includes a microprocessor <NUM>, a display <NUM>, a position sensor <NUM>, at least one lock-out lock <NUM>, a power supply <NUM> and a communications interface <NUM>, which can include a transceiver 32t. The communications interface <NUM> can communicate with the dashboard <NUM> via a communications bus <NUM> as discussed above.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can reside entirely in the housing <NUM> of the circuit interrupter <NUM> or may reside entirely or partially external to the housing <NUM> of the circuit interrupter <NUM>.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can reside in the housing <NUM> in an unlocked position and may reside at least partially outside the housing <NUM> in the locked position. Where more than one lock-out lock <NUM> is used, one may reside inside the housing <NUM> and one may reside outside the housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a mobile device <NUM> of a user can wirelessly, such as via BLUETOOTH wireless technology, communicate with the communications interface <NUM> to move the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to a blocked or unblocked position. The position sensor <NUM> can provide data that confirms that the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> is properly deployed to the locked position or that provides a warning that the lock <NUM> is not properly positioned. The display <NUM> can display the visual indicia <NUM> of the LOTO status of the circuit interrupter <NUM>. The microprocessor <NUM> and/or the communications interface <NUM> can direct the actuator 28a to actuate to move the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to the locked or unlocked position based on the wireless communication from the user via the mobile device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the mobile device <NUM> can comprise a LOTO APP <NUM> that can provide electronic key data for a user to use to initiate the LOTO state and/or remove the LOTO state of one or more circuit interrupters <NUM>. The LOTO APP <NUM> may optionally be accessed by an icon 210I graphically illustrating a keyed-lock, for example.

The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> may be used in place of conventional physical keyed locks such as padlocks and hasps or handle blocks and/or mechanical interlocks such as Kirk® key interlocks. Embodiments of the invention can be configured to reduce the possibility of, if not eliminate the possibility of, an unauthorized user with a duplicate physical key used to unlock a circuit interrupter <NUM> that is in a LOTO state. A user can electronically control the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> via use of one or more electronic keys <NUM>.

The electronic keys <NUM> can be provided by the system <NUM>, optionally by the dashboard <NUM> and/or remote database <NUM>. A respective electronic key <NUM> can be different for different users, different for a respective user and each circuit interrupter <NUM>, generated as a unique code with an expiration date and time, or provided in other desired formats.

<FIG> illustrates that the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can comprise an actuator 28a coupled to a power supply <NUM>. The power supply <NUM> can comprise a battery or a hard-wired power source. The power supply <NUM> can be an inductively powered power supply. The power supply <NUM> can be internal or external to the housing <NUM> of the breaker <NUM>.

The actuator 28a can be a linear actuator or a rotary actuator.

The electronically controlled at least one lock-out lock <NUM> may optionally be used with a conventional externally keyed mechanical/manually physically operated interlock <NUM> which uses a physical key <NUM> to open to remove the LOTO state of the circuit interrupter <NUM>. This can provide an additional layer of security as a user that initiated the lock-out state can have a unique electronic key or access code for the lock-out lock <NUM> even if a different user is able to obtain a duplicate physical key and unlock the externally manually operable keyed interlock <NUM>.

<FIG> also illustrates that the circuit interrupter <NUM> can comprise a keypad <NUM> as an HMI <NUM> as well as the display <NUM>. A user can enter a (unique) code that can be entered using the keypad <NUM> to electronically direct the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to selectively move to the locked or the locked position. The display <NUM> may optionally include a reader 25R such as a barcode or quick read (QR) code reader that can read a barcode or QR code provided as the electronic key <NUM> by the mobile device <NUM> to allow the user to initiate or remove the LOTO state.

As shown in <FIG>, the LOTO APP <NUM> can provide data windows 211a, 211b that support a user's ability to direct the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> to move to the locked or unlocked position. For example, one window 211a can be configured to allow a user to select a locked or unlocked position (211a) of the at least one lock-out lock <NUM>. That same window or a different window may be configured to allow a user to enter a serial number or other identifier of a target circuit interrupter <NUM> (which can also be directly uploaded or identified using the communications interface <NUM> of a respective circuit interrupter <NUM>), and/or enter a user name (which can also be auto-filled in the data segment based on the electronic data of the mobile device associated with that person) of a person seeking to initiate or remove the LOTO state and the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the LOTO APP <NUM> can optionally generate a unique code <NUM> assigned to a user providing the electronic key <NUM> for a particular requested LOTO initiation or removal of one or more circuit interrupters <NUM>. That unique code <NUM> can be generated by and/or received or accessed using the LOTO APP <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an example circuit breaker 15b with a trip unit <NUM> that comprises a plug'n'play communication protocol approach to a field bus interface in order to reduce the number of styles of a communication adapter. In this example embodiment, only a single communication adapter module (CAM) <NUM> is required to be employed for each field bus, independent of the particular trip unit style. In other words, for example and without limitation, a single Modbus® CAM (M-CAM) will work with all of the particular family of trip units (e.g., family style #<NUM>; family style #<NUM>). This permits a single style of CAM to support a plurality of different trip unit styles, which reduces the number of styles of the example CAM <NUM>. However, other communication configurations can be employed.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the trip unit <NUM> can optionally have an architecture that includes a plurality (shown as three) example independent functional sections: (<NUM>) a processor <NUM> which can be part of an example protection processor (PP) <NUM>; (<NUM>) an operator panel, such as the example Human-Machine Interface (HMI) comprising a trip unit's display/operator panel <NUM>; and (<NUM>) a communication adapter module (CAM) <NUM>. The CAM <NUM> is a device that connects a product to a communication network (e.g., a communications or field bus <NUM>). Alternatively, the PP <NUM> and the HMI can be combined into a single functional unit.

<FIG>, <FIG> also illustrate the separable contacts <NUM> and an operating mechanism, such as the example trip actuator circuit (TA) <NUM> structured to open and close the separable contacts <NUM>. The trip unit <NUM> controls the trip actuator <NUM> to trip open the separable contacts <NUM>. The trip unit <NUM> can include a protection processor circuit (PP) <NUM>, having the processor <NUM> and a first memory <NUM> storing a first set of a plurality of trip unit settings <NUM>. The trip unit <NUM> can comprise a communication adapter module (CAM) <NUM>, which is separable from the example PP <NUM> or separable from the trip unit <NUM>. The example CAM <NUM> includes a second processor <NUM> and a second memory, such as a non-volatile memory <NUM>, storing a second set of a plurality of trip unit settings <NUM>. The example CAM <NUM> is structured to save the trip unit settings <NUM> as the saved settings <NUM> in the second memory <NUM>, and to restore the saved settings <NUM> in the first memory <NUM> of the PP <NUM> or of another processor (not shown) of another trip unit (not shown). Hence, if the trip unit <NUM> or PP <NUM> fails, then the CAM <NUM> can be separated therefrom and installed on another trip unit (not shown) or PP (not shown), and the saved settings <NUM> can be downloaded from the CAM memory <NUM> to the trip unit memory <NUM> of the other trip unit or PP. The PP <NUM> saves the saved settings <NUM> in the separable CAM <NUM> and provides the ability to restore those settings <NUM> in a replacement trip unit (not shown) or PP (not shown). The PP <NUM>, the HMI comprising the display <NUM> and the CAM <NUM> can communicate, for example, through two example full-duplex serial links <NUM>,<NUM> (e.g., without limitation, RS-<NUM>): (<NUM>) the serial link <NUM> is between the PP <NUM> and the HMI; and the serial link <NUM> is between the PP <NUM> and the CAM <NUM>. Each of the PP <NUM>, the HMI and the CAM <NUM> is, thus, structured to communicate through one or both of the example full-duplex serial links <NUM>, <NUM>. See, e.g., <CIT> for examples of trip units <NUM> having the above-components.

Still referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, as discussed above, the trip unit <NUM> can cooperate with and/or include at least one lock-out actuator 28a and at least one lock-out lock <NUM>. The lock out actuator 28a can be powered by the internal power supply <NUM>. The processor <NUM> can be coupled to the lock out actuator 28a to controllably actuate the actuator 28a to move the lock <NUM> to the locked position or the unlocked position in response to electronic input from a user, typically via an electronic key. The processor <NUM> can also be coupled to the position sensor <NUM>. A lock-out status signal can be transmitted to the communication link <NUM> to the HMI and display <NUM>. When in a locked-out state, a lock-out status signal can be transmitted to the dashboard <NUM> via communication link <NUM> to the communication interface <NUM>, then to the communication bus <NUM>, optionally via another communications interface <NUM> (<FIG>).

The PP <NUM> can also output to a number of trip and status indicators, such as a plurality of cause of trip LEDs <NUM>. A +<NUM> VDC battery <NUM> in a frame rating module/bridge circuits interface <NUM> can provide redundant power for the cause of trip LEDs <NUM>. If the circuit interrupter <NUM> were to trip and control power be lost, then the LED states can be maintained in a latch <NUM> by the battery <NUM>. This battery <NUM> can be located at any suitable position on the trip unit <NUM>.

A high instantaneous trip circuit <NUM> is a separate analog peak detecting circuit set to match the withstand rating of the frame of the circuit breaker <NUM>. The high instantaneous trip circuit <NUM> can trip the circuit breaker 15b without any intervention by the processor <NUM>. This provides trip operation faster than a short delay setting and acts as a fail-safe in the event of a failure of the processor <NUM>. A making current release (MCR) circuit <NUM> is a safety feature that prevents the circuit breaker 15b from being closed and latched-in on a fault. This can be a non-adjustable sensing circuit.

Where used, the CAM <NUM> can include a second communication interface <NUM> that provides a connection to a communication network (e.g., without limitation, a communications (field) bus <NUM>). For example, multiple styles of the CAM <NUM> can be provided to support various field bus interfaces (e.g., without limitation, Modbus®; PROFI BUS PROCESS FIELD BUS®; INCOM; Ethernet; DeviceNet). For example and without limitation, an Ethernet CAM can support a "tool kit" that provides a set of common machine-to-machine services along with a web page server, a BACnet interface, and ModBus® TCP. Non-limiting examples of the INCOM network and protocol are disclosed in <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>. Hence, the CAM <NUM> can be selected from a plurality of different CAMs (not shown) to provide an interface to a selected one of a plurality of corresponding different field busses (not shown).

Where used, the CAM <NUM> can optionally further includes a set <NUM> of breaker open/close relays and contacts. Circuit breaker open and close relays (not shown) are controlled by the CAM processor <NUM> to control relay contacts (not shown) in response to a communication request through the communication interface <NUM> for opening or closing the circuit breaker 15b. A motor operator (not shown) can be wired through the close relay contact to close the circuit breaker 15b (when not in a locked-out state) while a circuit breaker shunt trip (not shown) can be wired through the open relay contact to open the circuit breaker 15b.

A "source ground" jumper <NUM> on the CAM <NUM> selects between residual ground current computation by the processor <NUM>, or direct measurement of ground current via an external ground current transformer (CT) (not shown). There can be two ground fault modes that the circuit breaker 15b can be configured for: source ground or residual ground. The trip unit processor <NUM> can input a jumper input <NUM> to determine the selected configuration for the circuit breaker 15b. With the jumper <NUM> in, the circuit breaker 15b is in a source mode, and without the jumper <NUM>, the circuit breaker 15b is in a residual mode.

The CAM <NUM> and HMI <NUM> can be structured to (indirectly) communicate with each other via the PP <NUM> by relaying messages through the trip unit <NUM>. The communication protocol can have a limited address field that permits each device (CAM <NUM>, HMI <NUM>, or trip unit <NUM>) to direct the communication to another device. For example, the HMI <NUM> can learn and adjust setpoints located in both the trip unit <NUM> and the CAM <NUM>. Since it physically connects only to the trip unit <NUM>, it sets the address to the CAM <NUM> and the trip unit <NUM> retransmits messages from the HMI <NUM> to the CAM <NUM> when it detects the address of the CAM <NUM> in the message packet. Responses from the CAM <NUM> are likewise retransmitted to the HMI <NUM> when the trip unit <NUM> detects the HMI's address.

The trip actuator circuit <NUM> can contain logic and current amplification, allowing a trip solenoid to be activated by the processor <NUM>. The solenoid may also be activated directly by input signals, thereby bypassing the processor <NUM>, under extremely high input currents or in the event of a processor failure.

The example processor <NUM> contains programming to perform protection, metering, event capture, and communication functions. The example metering function converts voltage and current inputs to engineering units. These values are also sent to the protection algorithms to determine whether a trip condition exists. Certain events are time-stamped and stored in the nonvolatile memory <NUM> for eventual transmission to the HMI of the display <NUM> and/or CAM <NUM>. Metered values, breaker status, and events information are transmitted over the communications ports <NUM>, <NUM>. In addition, various settings may be read or written over the communications ports <NUM>,<NUM>.

Where used, the CAM <NUM> can comprise the second processor <NUM>, a field-bus interface <NUM>, and a full-duplex communication interface <NUM> to the device (trip unit <NUM>) as shown in <FIG>. A processor programming port (not shown) can be employed to program the CAM processor <NUM>. This is typically done once in the factory.

The second processor <NUM> can contain programming to handle: (<NUM>) communications with the PP <NUM>; (<NUM>) field bus communications; and (<NUM>) event storage. Metered values, circuit breaker status, and events information are transmitted from the PP <NUM> to the CAM processor <NUM>. The CAM <NUM> updates and maintains a database of this information to support field bus communications. In addition, various settings may be read from or written to the PP <NUM>. The processor <NUM> receives messages from the field bus <NUM>, decodes the messages, and assembles the appropriate responses. The processor <NUM> also stores events that are received from the PP <NUM>.

The circuit breakers 15b can be molded case circuit breakers (MCCB)s. MCCBs are well known. See, e.g., <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>. The circuit breakers 15b can be a bi-directional DC MCCB. See, e.g., <CIT>. The DC MCCBs can be suitable for many uses such as data center, photovoltaic, and electric vehicle applications.

As is known to those of skill in the art, Eaton Corporation has introduced a line of MCCBs designed for commercial and utility scale photovoltaic (PV) systems. Used in solar combiner and inverter applications, Eaton PVGard™ circuit breakers are rated up to <NUM> Amp at <NUM> Vdc and can meet or exceed industry standards such as UL 489B, which requires rigorous testing to verify circuit protection that meets the specific requirements of PV systems. However, it is contemplated that the circuit breakers 15b can be used for various applications with corresponding voltage capacity/rating.

In some embodiments, the circuit breakers <NUM> can be DC circuit breakers, AC circuit breakers, or both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) circuit breakers.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example electrical distribution system <NUM> with at least one circuit interrupter <NUM> and a remote dashboard <NUM> is shown. The remote dashboard <NUM> can be provided on a workstation stand <NUM> and comprise a display 50d. The display 50d can be configured to illustrate operational status of a plurality of circuit interrupters <NUM> as virtual circuit interrupters 15v. A circuit interrupter <NUM> that is locked out can be virtually represented in a visually prominent format different from other display formats of circuit interrupters in other states. As shown, the virtual representation 15v of the locked out circuit interrupter <NUM>l is shown with a visually transmissive overlayer of a color and/or graphic that is different from circuit interrupters having ON, OFF or tripped states. For example, all connected circuit interrupters <NUM> can be represented by a corresponding rectangular graphic 15r. A "red" visually transmissive overlayer 15o can be displayed over a rectangular graphic 15r representing the locked out circuit interrupter <NUM>. The dashboard <NUM> can also be configured to provide the date and name of the user placing the circuit interrupter <NUM> in the locked out state. The dashboard <NUM> can be configured to monitor a duration of the locked out status of a respective circuit interrupter <NUM> and provide service alerts or messages to the user that applied the locked out state or to a service manager, for example at one or more time periods thereby allowing service oversight. Data regarding undue lengths of a locked out state may be provided to the dashboard, e.g., service repair on hold for part ordering.

<FIG> illustrates that the circuit interrupter <NUM> can be configured to allow a user to enter a personalized code as the digital key <NUM> via an HMI <NUM> such as the display <NUM>, a keypad <NUM> or BLUETOOTH wireless communication entry from a mobile device <NUM>. A user may also enter other relevant tag out data electronically, including expected completion date. The personalized code can be electronically correlated to a user's name and department and this data can be automatically populated in fields of a display screen to display <NUM> as part of the LOTO display <NUM>. This same personalized code can be used to remove the lock out state and move the lock out lock <NUM> to the unlocked positon in the circuit interrupter <NUM>. Multiple users, each with unique (personalized) codes can be supported to provide a digital LOTO hasp. That is, the circuit interrupter <NUM> can be configured to require multiple digital keys <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> be entered and/or transmitted before directing the lock out lock <NUM> to move to an unlocked position as a multi-lock safety hasp.

<FIG> is a schematic illustration of at least one digital key <NUM> configured to concurrently (or substantially concurrently, such as within <NUM> seconds of each other) lock and/or unlock a plurality of circuit interrupters <NUM>. The system <NUM> can be configured to apply or remove multiple lock-out locks <NUM> with a single operation using one electronic key <NUM> or using multiple electronic keys (of the same or different users) for additional safety.

Embodiments of the present invention can provide the ability to pair multiple electronic keys, for example, in complex main tie main lineups, instead of having to fumble with multiple keys and locks. Embodiments of the invention can provide lock-out relationship profiles <NUM> (<FIG>) in a database in communication with or onboard the dashboard <NUM> and/or via the mobile device <NUM> that electronically direct the lock-out locks <NUM> to lock/unlock multiple different circuit interrupters <NUM> defined by the relationship profiles and these different electronic keys can change between protection schemes defined by the profiles. This can open up the possibility of operating conventional manual transfer schemes remotely while maintaining safety against unwanted manual operations.

<FIG> is a schematic illustration of a system <NUM> configured to use (personal) smartphones as the mobile devices <NUM> to provide a digital key <NUM> that accepts a digital key signal <NUM>. For example, smart phones have a unique digital identifier, known as IMEI - International Mobile Equipment Identity. Thus, a user can electronically direct the lock-out lock <NUM> to more to the locked position or direct the lock-out lock <NUM> to more to the unlocked position using a (personal) smart phone, optionally via an APP on the mobile device <NUM>. The digital key <NUM> can be the smartphone's IMEI. The mobile device <NUM> can communicate with the trip unit <NUM> via BLUETOOTH communication. Again, the trip unit <NUM> can display the do not operate tag on the display <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic illustration of a system <NUM> that can employ biometric data <NUM> to identify authorized users used for generating or verifying a digital key <NUM>. For example, a user can use a smartphone <NUM> to detect biometric data of that user that can be used by a LOTO APP <NUM>. The biometric data <NUM> can include facial recognition, fingerprints, eye retina or iris, even voice identification. For example, the biometric data <NUM> can comprise a photograph taken by a camera of the mobile device or fingerprint data using a fingerprint scanner of the mobile device <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the circuit interrupter <NUM> can be configured to provide a biometric identification system that obtains biometric data of a user before allowing electronic operation of the lock-out lock to the locked position and to the unlocked position.

By way of example, a user can electronically direct the lock-out lock <NUM> to move to the locked out position or move the lock-out lock <NUM> to the unlocked positon by using a mobile device such as a smartphone, optionally with an APP <NUM>. The APP <NUM> can obtain the biometric data <NUM>. In one example, the camera 200c can take a picture of the user and apply commercial facial recognition techniques. The APP <NUM> can electronically transmit the facial identification data to trip unit <NUM> (using BLUETOOTH, for example), optionally via the communications interface <NUM>, that then directs the lock-out lock <NUM> to move to the locked position thereby locking the circuit interrupter <NUM> in the locked out state. Again the trip unit <NUM> displays the do not operate tag. The process can be used in the reverse, optionally also providing a verification step within the APP <NUM>, such as with a time sensitive digital code, before allowing a user via the mobile device <NUM> to move the lock-out lock <NUM> to the unlocked position.

<FIG> is an example flow chart of actions that can be carried out according to embodiments of the present invention. At least one circuit interrupter with a lock-out system comprising a lock-out lock is provided (block <NUM>). User input from a user is accepted to deploy the lock to a locked position associated with a lock out state of the circuit interrupter (block <NUM>). The lock is electronically confirmed to be in a proper lock out position based on data from at least one sensor in the circuit interrupter and in communication with the lock (block <NUM>). User input is electronically accepted from only a defined user (typically the same user that placed the circuit interrupter in the lock out state) to deploy the lock to an unlocked position allowing the circuit interrupter to be energized (block <NUM>).

Status of a plurality of circuit interrupters is monitored at a dashboard, wherein each circuit interrupter has a status/state of one of: tripped; open; closed; or locked-out (block <NUM>).

The dashboard has a display that identifies circuit interrupters in a locked-out state with a visual overlay that is different from the other states (block <NUM>).

A visual "DO NOT OPERATE"/lock out warning is displayed on a display of the circuit interrupter when the lock is in the locked position with the circuit interrupter in the lock out state (block <NUM>).

The accepting user input from the defined user can be configured to concurrently deploy respective lock-out locks from a single one or a plurality of different circuit interrupters (block <NUM>).

The user input can be provided by an externally accessible user interface of the circuit interrupter that is in the trip unit or in communication with the trip unit in the circuit interrupter (block <NUM>).

The user input can be provided by a mobile device (block <NUM>).

The user input can be provided by an APP on a mobile device (block <NUM>).

The mobile device can provide a unique identifier of the user (block <NUM>).

The APP can provide a personalized code for the user (block <NUM>).

The APP can use biometrics to identify a user (block <NUM>).

<FIG> is an example flow chart of actions that can be carried out according to embodiments of the present invention. An electrical distribution system comprising a plurality of circuit interrupters, each with at least one lock-out lock, is provided (block <NUM>). The at least one lock-out lock is electronically directed to move to a locked position in or on or in and on the circuit interrupter (block <NUM>). A lock-out warning is displayed on a display of the circuit interrupter with the lock in the locked position (block <NUM>). A lock-out status signal is transmitted to a dashboard that displays a status of each of the circuit interrupters as one of: open, closed, locked-out, tripped (block <NUM>).

The at least one lock-out lock can be configured to block an external handle of the circuit breaker in an OFF position (block <NUM>).

The at least one lock-out lock comprises a lock-out solenoid (different from and optionally spaced apart from a trip solenoid) with a shaft configured to selectively extend and retract to provide the locked and unlocked positions (block <NUM>).

The at least one lock can be electronically confirmed to be in a proper locked position (block <NUM>).

A locked-out position confirmation signal can be sent to the dashboard and/or a mobile device of a user (block <NUM>).

Sensor data can be obtained from a sensor in communication with the at least one lock-out lock for the electronically confirmation (block <NUM>).

Displaying on the display of the circuit interrupter in the locked-out state that the at least one lock-out lock is confirmed as in the proper (fully deployed) locked-out position (block <NUM>).

Displaying a name of the user initiating the lock-out state on the display, optionally with a date the lock-out state was instituted (block <NUM>).

A database of authorized service personnel with correlated unique identifiers can be provided (block <NUM>).

The circuit interrupter or mobile device can identify a unique identifier (virtual key) that is unique to a user (authorized service personnel) (block <NUM>).

The circuit interrupter or mobile device can electronically identify a user that initiates the electronically directing (block <NUM>).

User biometric data to identify a user can be obtained (block <NUM>).

Before electronically directing the at least one lock, a unique user electronic identifier, optionally a mobile device IMEI, can be identified (block <NUM>).

An APP accessed using a mobile device can be provided to communicate with the circuit interrupter and carry out the directing steps (block <NUM>).

A one-time security code can be sent to a user to verify that a user is an authorized user before allowing the user to initiate one or either of the directing steps (block <NUM>).

Prior to electronically directing the at least one lock-out lock to move to an unlocked position in the circuit interrupter, identifying that a user is the original user (block <NUM>).

Referring to <FIG>, embodiments of the invention may be configured as a data processing system <NUM>, which can include a (one or more) processors <NUM>, a memory <NUM> and input/output circuits <NUM>.

The one or more processors <NUM> can be part of a server, router, mobile device, dashboard or trip unit processing circuit.

The data processing system <NUM> may be incorporated in, for example, one or more of a mobile device such as a smartphone or personal computer, database, dashboard, server, router or the like.

The data processing system <NUM> can reside on one machine or be distributed over a plurality of machines and/or in the "cloud".

The processor <NUM> communicates with the memory <NUM> via an address/data bus <NUM> and communicates with the input/output circuits <NUM> via an address/data bus <NUM>. The input/output circuits <NUM> can be used to transfer information between the memory (memory and/or storage media) <NUM> and another computer system or a network using, for example, an Internet protocol (IP) connection. These components may be conventional components such as those used in many conventional data processing systems, which may be configured to operate as described herein.

In particular, the processor <NUM> can be commercially available or custom microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor or the like. The memory <NUM> may include any memory devices and/or storage media containing the software and data used to implement the functionality circuits or modules used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The memory <NUM> can include, but is not limited to, the following types of devices: ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, SRAM, DRAM and magnetic disk. In some embodiments of the present invention, the memory <NUM> may be a content addressable memory (CAM).

As further illustrated in <FIG>, the memory (and/or storage media) <NUM> may include several categories of software and data used in the data processing system: an operating system <NUM>; application programs <NUM>; input/output device drivers <NUM>; and data <NUM>. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the operating system <NUM> may be any operating system suitable for use with a data processing system, such as IBM®, OS/<NUM>®, AIX® or zOS® operating systems or Microsoft® Windows®<NUM> or WindowsXP operating systems, FreeRTOS operating system, Unix or Linux™, IBM, OS/<NUM>, AIX and zOS are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States, other countries, or both while Linux is a trademark of Linus Torvalds in the United States, other countries, or both. Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States, other countries, or both. The input/output device drivers <NUM> typically include software routines accessed through the operating system <NUM> by the application programs <NUM> to communicate with devices such as the input/output circuits <NUM> and certain memory <NUM> components. The application programs <NUM> are illustrative of the programs that implement the various features of the circuits, method steps discussed above and/or modules according to some embodiments of the present invention. Finally, the data <NUM> represents the static and dynamic data used by the application programs <NUM> the operating system <NUM> the input/output device drivers <NUM> and other software programs that may reside in the memory <NUM>.

The data <NUM> may include (archived or stored) digital data sets correlated to respective service operators and/or circuit interrupters.

As further illustrated in <FIG>, according to some embodiments of the present invention, the application programs <NUM> include a LOTO module <NUM>, an electronic key module <NUM> and/or a user authentication/verification module <NUM>. The LOTO module <NUM> can communicate with or provide the LOTO APP <NUM>. The electronic key module <NUM> can be configured to allow custom profiles of different circuit interrupter lock-out relationships and/or different multiple electronic key operations of different users and/or different components of the electrical distribution system <NUM>.

The application program <NUM> may be located in a local server (or processor) and/or database or a remote server (or processor) and/or database, or combinations of local and remote databases and/or servers.

While the present invention is illustrated with reference to the application programs <NUM>, and modules <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> in <FIG>, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, other configurations fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, rather than being application programs <NUM> these circuits and modules may also be incorporated into the operating system <NUM> or other such logical division of the data processing system. Furthermore, while the application programs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated in a single data processing system, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, such functionality may be distributed across one or more data processing systems in, for example, the type of client/server arrangement described above. Thus, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the configurations illustrated in <FIG> but may be provided by other arrangements and/or divisions of functions between data processing systems. For example, although <FIG> is illustrated as having various modules, one or more of these modules may be combined or separated without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Where the database <NUM> is provided using a server <NUM> (<FIG>), the server <NUM> may be embodied as a standalone server or may be contained as part of other computing infrastructures. The server <NUM> may be embodied as one or more enterprise, application, personal, pervasive and/or embedded computer systems that may be standalone or interconnected by a public and/or private, real and/or virtual, wired and/or wireless network including the Internet, and may include various types of tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media. The server <NUM> may also communicate with the network via wired or wireless connections, and may include various types of tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media.

The dashboard <NUM> and/or server <NUM> can be provided using cloud computing which includes the provision of computational resources on demand via a computer network. The resources can be embodied as various infrastructure services (e.g., compute, storage, etc.) as well as applications, databases, file services, email, etc. In the traditional model of computing, both data and software are typically fully contained on the user's computer; in cloud computing, the user's computer may contain little software or data (perhaps an operating system and/or web browser) , and may serve as little more than a display terminal for processes occurring on a network of external computers. A cloud computing service (or an aggregation of multiple cloud resources) may be generally referred to as the "cloud". Cloud storage may include a model of networked computer data storage where data is stored on multiple virtual servers, rather than being hosted on one or more dedicated servers.

Users can communicate with the dashboard <NUM> and/or server <NUM> via a computer network, such as one or more of local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN) and can include a private intranet and/or the public Internet (also known as the World Wide Web or "the web" or "the Internet. " The dashboard <NUM> and/or server <NUM> can include and/or be in communication with the modules <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> using appropriate firewalls.

Embodiments of the present invention may take the form of an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects, all generally referred to herein as a "circuit" or "module. " Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of a computer program product on a (non-transient) computer-usable storage medium having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium. Any suitable computer readable medium may be utilized including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, a transmission media such as those supporting the Internet or an intranet, or magnetic storage devices. Some circuits, modules or routines may be written in assembly language or even micro-code to enhance performance and/or memory usage. It will be further appreciated that the functionality of any or all of the program modules may also be implemented using discrete hardware components, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a programmed digital signal processor or microcontroller. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to a particular programming language.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of data processing systems, method steps or actions, modules or circuits (or portions thereof) discussed herein may be written in a high-level programming language, such as Python, Java, AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript), C, and/or C++, for development convenience. In addition, computer program code for carrying out operations of exemplary embodiments may also be written in other programming languages, such as, but not limited to, interpreted languages. Some modules or routines may be written in assembly language or even micro-code to enhance performance and/or memory usage. However, embodiments are not limited to a particular programming language. As noted above, the functionality of any or all of the program modules may also be implemented using discrete hardware components, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or a programmed digital signal processor or microcontroller. The program code may execute entirely on one computer (e.g., a workstation, circuit breaker, mobile device), partly on one computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the workstation's computer and partly on another computer, local and/or remote or entirely on the other local or remote computer. In the latter scenario, the other local or remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

The present invention is described in part with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing some or all of the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowcharts and block diagrams of certain of the figures herein illustrate exemplary architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flow charts or block diagrams represents a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order or two or more blocks may be combined, depending upon the functionality involved.

<FIG> illustrates an example circuit interrupter <NUM> with the at least one lock-out lock <NUM> and the trip solenoid <NUM> of a TA circuit <NUM>. The at least one lock-out lock <NUM> can comprise a lock solenoid <NUM> that can be configured to direct the lock member <NUM> to travel toward the handle <NUM> to the locked position and away from the handle <NUM> to the unlocked internal position.

The trip solenoid <NUM> can be configured to translate toward and away from one or more of a bimetal member <NUM> (where a non-electronic trip unit is used), armature <NUM> and magnet <NUM>. The trip solenoid <NUM> can be coupled to a printed circuit board <NUM>. The travel can optionally be perpendicular to the travel direction of the trip solenoid <NUM>. The circuit interrupter <NUM> may also comprise a movable contact arm <NUM>, arc chute <NUM>, mechanism spring <NUM>, a collar assembly <NUM>, a pigtail <NUM> and a line terminal assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a retrofit kit <NUM> that can be used to retrofit circuit interrupters <NUM>. The kit <NUM> can include a bracket <NUM> for mounting to the housing <NUM> of the circuit interrupter <NUM> adjacent the handle <NUM> thereof, mounting screws <NUM>, lock attachment screws <NUM> and at least one electronically operable lock-out key <NUM> with a lock member <NUM> and actuator 28a. The actuator 28a is coupled to an electronic control circuit <NUM> and power supply source <NUM> pf the lock out key <NUM>. The lock-out key <NUM> can also comprise a transceiver 32t and/or a communication interface <NUM>. The lock-out key <NUM> may be provided separately or be provided as part of the kit <NUM>.

As shown, the lock attachment screws <NUM> extend through apertures <NUM> in the lock out lock <NUM> and couple to the mounting bracket <NUM>. The mounting bracket <NUM> may have an "L" shape as shown, but other shapes may be used. The mounting bracket <NUM> positions the lock member <NUM> over the handle <NUM> in the locked state and allows the lock member <NUM> to retract to unblock the handle <NUM> in the unlocked state.

<FIG> illustrates a circuit interrupter <NUM> comprising an electronically operable lock-out lock <NUM> coupled to a front surface 15f of a housing <NUM> with the lock member <NUM> extending laterally a distance D over the handle <NUM> in a locked/blocked state. This configuration is not required to be only for (field or factory) retrofit but may be OEM as well or alternatively. The distance "D" can be at least <NUM>% of a lateral extent of the handle <NUM> and may extend in a range between <NUM>% and <NUM>% of the lateral extent of the handle <NUM>, from an outermost position that positons the lock member <NUM> spaced apart a distance from the handle <NUM> so that it does not block movement of the handle <NUM>.

The lock-out lock <NUM> may be slidably mounted to the housing <NUM> and can be coupled to a slot <NUM> and electronically actuated to travel right and left the distance D between blocked and unblocked positions. The lock-out lock <NUM> can be configured to communicate with a mobile device <NUM> of a user/technician and/or dashboard <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an example power distribution system cabinet <NUM> with a plurality of circuit interrupters <NUM> in the second to fourth sections <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> between feeder sections <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> and one or more of the circuit interrupters <NUM> can include the at least one electronically operable lock-out lock <NUM>. In this example, there are three circuit breakers <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> provided as the circuit interrupters <NUM>.

The first breaker <NUM><NUM> is the incoming main from utility power. The third breaker <NUM> is the alternate incoming main (ex from a generator). The first and fifth sections <NUM><NUM> and <NUM> are "feeder" sections that run to multiple downstream loads in the system. Both structures need power at the same time but the ability to be separated if necessary.

The second breaker <NUM><NUM> is the "Tie" breaker that connects the left side and right side of the lineups.

Breakers <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, and <NUM><NUM> can all have lock-out key locks <NUM> attached to them but only two can be closed at any one time. Normal Protocol: Breakers <NUM><NUM> & <NUM><NUM> are in the "CLOSED" position. Sections <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM> are both receiving power. Breaker <NUM><NUM> must remain in the "OPEN" position. Back-up Protocol: Breakers <NUM><NUM> & <NUM><NUM> are in the "CLOSED" position. Sections <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM> are both receiving power. Breaker <NUM><NUM> must remain in the "OPEN" position.

Alternate Protocol: Breakers <NUM><NUM> & <NUM><NUM> are in the "CLOSED" position. Section <NUM><NUM> receives power from Main <NUM>; Section <NUM><NUM> receives power from Main <NUM>. The Tie breaker <NUM><NUM> is OPEN so the left and right sections are not connected.

Breakers <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, & <NUM><NUM> are never all allowed to be concurrently "CLOSED". If all three were closed concurrently, this condition can allow utility power and generator power to enter the system at the same time which is undesirable (likely damage to generator & other equipment).

The power system <NUM>, power distribution cabinet <NUM>, dashboard <NUM>, database <NUM> and/or LOTO APP <NUM> can be configured to communicate with the three breakers <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM>, and <NUM><NUM> to know, for example, that either a) breakers <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM> are in the ON position so the lock-out key <NUM> on breaker <NUM><NUM> cannot be unlocked or b) know that locks <NUM> for breakers <NUM><NUM> & <NUM><NUM> are in the unlocked position so that lock <NUM> for breaker <NUM><NUM> cannot be unlocked. The LOTO APP <NUM> and/or database <NUM> can be configured to deny access to any electronic keys and prevent actuation of respective locks <NUM> that would violate these rules to provide suitable safety protocols.

The three breakers <NUM><NUM>, <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM> can be configured to communicate with each other as well as one or more of the power system <NUM>, power distribution cabinet <NUM>, database <NUM>, LOTO APP <NUM> to provide electronic access keys to control ON and OFF states of the lock-out locks <NUM> based on defined safety protocols.

Claim 1:
A circuit interrupter (<NUM>), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) with a line side and a load side;
a switch handle (<NUM>) coupled to the housing (<NUM>); and
an electronically operable lock (<NUM>) comprising a lock member (<NUM>) coupled to the housing (<NUM>) configured to electronically controllably travel between a first position and a second position, wherein, in the second position, the lock member is in a lock-out position and prevents the handle (<NUM>) from moving to an ON position associated with electrical current conduction, and wherein, in the first position, the lock member is in a position that allows the handle to move to the ON position;
characterized in that the circuit interrupter (<NUM>) further comprises:
a display (<NUM>) held by the housing (<NUM>); and
at least one processor (<NUM>) in the housing (<NUM>) in communication with a primary trip solenoid (<NUM>) and the lock (<NUM>), wherein, when the lock member (<NUM>) is in the second position, the display (<NUM>) displays visual indicia of a lock out tag out status of the circuit interrupter, optionally with a "DO NOT OPERATE" warning and a name of a person placing the circuit interrupter in the lock out tag out status.