Method and devices for wireless communication between test and control devices and power distribution devices

#This disclosure generally relates to test and control devices and power distribution devices. More particularly, this disclosure relates to methods and devices for wireless communication between test and control devices and power distribution devices.

#Communication with power distribution devices, such as electronic trip units, relays, meters and the like, is required. Such communication includes functions such as testing the device, controlling the device, programming the device, collecting or viewing data from the device and the like. This communication occurs through the use of a test and control device “specific for” or “dedicated to” the power distribution device to be communicated with. Moreover, such communication currently requires a physical connection between the dedicated test and control device and the power distribution device. An example of such a dedicated and physically connected system is illustrated in FIG. 1. In this example, a dedicated test and control device 10 is shown physically connected by way of cable 11 to a power distribution device 12.

#U.S. Pat. No. 4,814,712 to Burton et al describes such a dedicated test and control device requiring a physical connection. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,825,643 to Dvorak et al. and 5,872,722 to Oravetz et al. describe such physically connected, dedicated test and control devices that allow for adjustment and coordination of set points within the power distribution device.

#Referring to the exemplary drawings wherein like elements are numbered alike in the several Figures:

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dedicated test and control device physically connected to a power distribution device;

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a test and control device wirelessly communicating with a power distribution device; and

#Referring now to FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of a test and control device 14 is illustrated. The test and control device 14 is illustrated communicating through a wireless connection with a wireless power distribution device 16. By way of example, the test and control device 14 includes personal digital assistants (PDA), laptop or notebook computers, or other similar portable devices having a microprocessor. Additionally, the power distribution device 16 is, for example, a circuit breaker having an electronic trip unit, a programmable relay, a meter, and the like.

#In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the test and control device 14 is a handheld PDA 18 and the power distribution device 16 is a circuit breaker 20 having an electronic trip unit 22. Of course, it should be recognized that other test and control devices 14 and/or other power distribution devices 16 are contemplated.

#The PDA 18 and the trip unit 22 are configured to wirelessly communicate to one another. For example, and as described in detail below, the PDA 18 is configured to display data generated by the trip unit 22, wirelessly upgrade software or firmware to the trip unit, wirelessly adjust set points in the trip unit, initiate self test programs in the trip unit, and the like.