Circuit Breaker Simulation

[crossaint]

Yes, they "measure" the current that flows through them by heating a bimetallic element with the current that flows through it.
If there is enough current, the bimetallic element will push aside a latching element and the circuit breaker opens some contacts and the current is interrupted. Note that in most C/Bs the popping out button is not directly linked with the contacts, but uses the bimetallic element to close the circuit again. This way one can't stop the C/B from disconnecting, even if the button is kept pressed.

This has an implication for a correct simulation: It needs some time for the bimetallic element to cool down, and during this time a pushed button will not stay in and the contacts are not connected. Only if after the cool-down time the button is pushed in, the C/B is actually reset.

[_alioth_]

I didn't see this thread.
I think it is better tu put here the link with my circuit breakers panel.

This has an implication for a correct simulation: It needs some time for the bimetallic element to cool down, and during this time a pushed button will not stay in and the contacts are not connected. Only if after the cool-down time the button is pushed in, the C/B is actually reset.

That's true! I will add this "function" in the arduino software to get this behavior.

Arturo.

[Atomic_Sheep]

Yes, they "measure" the current that flows through them by heating a bimetallic element with the current that flows through it.
If there is enough current, the bimetallic element will push aside a latching element and the circuit breaker opens some contacts and the current is interrupted. Note that in most C/Bs the popping out button is not directly linked with the contacts, but uses the bimetallic element to close the circuit again. This way one can't stop the C/B from disconnecting, even if the button is kept pressed.

This has an implication for a correct simulation: It needs some time for the bimetallic element to cool down, and during this time a pushed button will not stay in and the contacts are not connected. Only if after the cool-down time the button is pushed in, the C/B is actually reset.

Very interesting, wasn't aware of this, thanks for pointing it out.