Panelboard/circuit breaker barrier interface

Abstract

Methods and systems for safely installing and removing a circuit breaker or other branch electrical equipment from a panelboard provide a resilient barrier interface for the panelboard. The barrier interface operates in conjunction with the circuit breaker to allow access to a plug-in jaw in the panelboard only when the circuit breaker is inserted in the panelboard. Specifically, the circuit breaker has one or more insertion keys on the underside of its casing that interact with the barrier interface to open and close the barrier interface. When the circuit breaker is inserted into the panelboard, the insertion keys force the barrier interface open automatically to allow the circuit breaker to access the plug-in jaw. Removing the circuit breaker from the panelboard automatically closes the barrier interface and prevents fingers or tools and the like from inadvertently accessing the plug-in jaw.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.