Patent ID: 8878396

Claim:
A continuous grounding system for use in an alternating current system including a transformer, the system comprising: (a) a switch assembly connected between a transformer neutral of a transformer and a ground, the switch assembly having an open position and a closed position, the open position disrupting the path through the switch between the electrical connection and the ground connection, and the closed position establishing a path connecting the electrical connection to the ground connection through the switch assembly, wherein in normal operation of the alternating current electrical device the switch remains in a closed position; (b) a DC blocking component positioned in parallel with the switch assembly and connected between the transformer neutral and the ground; and (c) a control circuit configured to control the switch assembly, the control circuit including a sensor configured to actuate the switch assembly to an open position upon detection of a harmonic signal in at least one phase of the transformer or a predetermined threshold of DC or quasi DC current between the transformer neutral and the ground.