MXPA00004536A - Circuit breaker with a dual test button mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a dual test mechanism is presented for use in a circuit breaker. More specifically, the dual test mechanism includes a dual test button which comprises a single switch for testing both the AFCI and GFCI circuits of the breaker. The test mechanism includes a circuit board, which forms a part of the circuit breaker, and a test button assembly which includes a test button and signaling components which are electrically connected to the circuit board.

Description

CIRCUIT SWITCH WITH A DOUBLE TEST BUTTON MECHANISM BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to a circuit breaker. More specifically, the present invention relates to a double test button and a test mechanism for verifying both an arc fault circuit interruption (AFCI) and a ground fault circuit interruption (GFCI), in a circuit breaker. Conventional light and commercial residential and industrial circuit breakers typically have a thermal trip mechanism that responds to persistent overcurrents of moderate magnitude to provide a delayed trip on the breaker. The circuit breaker also includes a magnetic trip mechanism that responds instantaneously to overcurrent conditions of higher magnitudes. It is becoming more common for these circuit breakers to also include a ground fault trip mechanism as one of the active mechanisms. The ground fault trip mechanism includes a trip unit that detects faults between the line conductor and the ground and the neutral conductor and ground. Ground line faults are commonly detected by the use of a differential transformer. The line and neutral conductors are passed through the coil, so that, in the absence of a line-to-ground fault, the currents are equal and opposite, and no signal is generated. However, when there is a failure of the line to ground, it creates a dimensionable imbalance between the two currents in the two conductors, which can be detected by the level. As is known, a neutral-to-ground fault can be detected by injecting a signal on the neutral conductor, which will produce an oscillation if feedback is provided. In addition, conventional circuit breakers include mechanisms designed to protect against arc faults. For example, an arc fault may be present in the device when the stripped or separated conductors come into contact with each other, and the current caused by this fault will produce magnetic rejection forces that push the conductors to separate, impacting in this way an arch. The arc that is caused by these faults can damage the conductors, melting copper from them, and this is especially true for stranded wire conductors, such as extension cords, which can ignite the surrounding materials. Normally, the circuit breaker includes contacts that open when an arc is detected from the line to ground and / or from the line to neutral. Arc fault circuit breakers typically use a differential transformer to measure the arc from line to ground. The detection of the line-to-neutral arc is made by detecting the rapid changes in the load current, measuring the voltage drop through a relatively constant resistance, usually a bimetallic resistor. Unfortunately, many conventional circuit breakers, including residential circuit breakers, do not allow the user to test both the AFCI circuit and the GFCI circuit on the device. Additionally, the ability to test both circuits for customer safety is very important, and because a large number of individuals do not understand the implications of a circuit failure, it is important to better educate these individuals about these implications, and the systems that are available to minimize the possibility of this circuit failure.

BRIEF COMPENDI OF THE INVENTION In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a double test mechanism for use in a circuit breaker is presented. More specifically, the double test mechanism includes a dual test button comprising a single switch to test both the AFCI circuit and the GFCI circuit of the switch. The test mechanism includes a circuit board, which forms a part of the circuit breaker, and a test button assembly that includes a test button and signaling components that are electrically connected to the circuit board. The test button has a first position and a second position, wherein placing the test button in the first position produces a first signal, and placing the test button in the second position produces a second signal. A trip mechanism is included in the circuit breaker, and includes a pair of separable contacts, wherein the trip mechanism is electrically connected to the circuit board, such that, in response to receiving one of the first and second signals , the circuit board generates a trigger signal that directs the firing mechanism to separate the pair of separable contacts. In the preferred embodiment, the first position comprises a test position for the AFCI circuit, and the second position comprises a test position for the GFCI circuit. Accordingly, the present invention allows the customer to test both the AFCI circuit and the GFCI circuit, by placing a single test button in accordance with the above, either in the first or second positions of the test button. The features discussed above, and other features and advantages of the present invention, will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art, from the following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Now referring to the drawings, where the same elements are numbered equally in the different figures. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a double test button for use in a double test mechanism in accordance with the present invention. Figure 2 is a side elevational view of an exemplary printed circuit board display, in accordance with the present invention. Figure 3 is a bottom plan view of the printed circuit board of Figure 2, taken along line 3-3. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a single-pole circuit breaker in accordance with the present invention. Figure 5 is a part separated view of the mechanical compartment of the single pole circuit breaker of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a part separated view of the electronic compartment of the single pole circuit breaker of Figure 4 .

Figure 7 is a side elevation view of a double test mechanism including the double test button of Figure 1, for use in a circuit breaker in accordance with the present invention. Figure 8 is a schematic of an exemplary circuit for the dual test button of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring to Figure 1, an example double test button to be used in order to verify both the AFCI circuit and the GFCI circuit in a circuit breaker 100 (Figure 4), is generally shown in FIG. The test button 10 includes a first cantilever surface 12 and a second cantilever surface 14, which are designed as surfaces for the user to press, depending on which circuit is to be tested in the circuit breaker 100. More specifically , the first cantilever surface 12 is depressed if the AFCI circuit test is desired, and the second cantilever surface 14 is pressed if the GFCI circuit test is desired. The first and second cantilever surfaces 12 and 14 are integral with each other, and converge along a center line. A perimetric lip 16 extends around the first and second cantilevered surfaces 12 and 14, such that the surfaces 12 and 14 extend above the perimeter lip 16. A lower portion of the test button 10 comprises a clamping member 18 that receives a pivotable leaf spring 20, which is part of a test button assembly 32 (shown in Figure 2). The clamping member 18 has a pair of forcing arms 22, which securely hold the pivoting blade spring 20 between them. The pivotable leaf spring 20 pivots when the first or second cantilever surfaces 12 and 14 are depressed. Preferably, the test button 10 is formed of a plastic material, as is known in the art. Turning now to Figures 1 to 3, which illustrate example current detecting components 30 for use in circuit breaker 100 (Figure 4), together with the assembly of test button 32. Current sensing components 30 they comprise a circuit board 34, which is electrically connected to a solenoid 36, and a current sensing transformer 38. In addition, the assembly of the test button 32 includes signaling components comprising a pivotable leaf spring 20, which is provided intermediate to a first plane 40 and a second plane 42, all of which are electrically connected to the circuit board 34. The pivotable leaf spring 20 is preferably a flat member, while the first and second planes 40 and 42 each have a lower flat segment and an angled upper segment that is inclined towards the pivotable leaf spring 20. It is understood that the test button 10 is secured to the pivotable leaf spring. 20 simply inserting an upper end of the pivotable leaf spring 20 into the holding member 18. The forces of the pair of arms 22 tighten and hold the pivotable leaf spring 20 in place. The assembly of the test button 32 comprises a two-position switch assembly (AFCI and GFCI), wherein, pressing the first cantilever surface 12 causes the pivoting blade spring 20 to contact the second plane 42, resulting in a first signal being injected into the circuit board 34, wherein the first signal comprises a test signal for the AFCI circuit. In contrast, pressing the second cantilever surface 14 causes the pivoting blade spring 20 to contact the first plane 40, resulting in a second signal being injected into the circuit board 34, wherein the second signal comprises a signal test for the GFCI circuit. Upon receiving the first or second signal, the circuit board 34 generates a trigger signal to the solenoid 36, resulting in the actuation of the solenoid 36, which causes a pair of separable contacts to separate and interrupt the current flow. at circuit breaker 100 (Figure 4). The precise test mechanisms and signaling will be described in greater detail later herein. The solenoid 36 includes a plunger assembly 44 at one end, wherein the plunger assembly 44 includes a rod having an end extension 46, which is attached at a right angle to the plunger rod. The end extension 46 comprises the component of the plunger assembly 44, which moves inside a recess 48 formed in the circuit board 34. Referring to Figure 2, the actuation of the solenoid 36 causes the plunger assembly 44 to be move in a left to right direction, and end extension 46 moves into recess 48 in a direction away from circuit board 34. It is intended that end extension 46 engage a test mechanism 200 (shown in Figure 7), which causes the pair of contacts to separate and interrupt the flow of current inside the circuit breaker 100, as will be described later herein. The circuit board 34, the test button assembly 32, and the solenoid 36 and the test mechanism 200 (Figure 7), can be used as a component of any number of suitable circuit breakers, wherein the selected movement of the double test button 10 allows one of two test signals to be injected into the circuit board 34, giving as the test of both AFCI and GFCI circuits inside the circuit breaker 100 results. For the purpose of illustration only, and not of limitation, an exemplary single-pole arc circuit board 100 is illustrated in Figures 4 to 6, and is further described in commonly assigned United States Patent Application No. 09 / 246,322, filed February 9, 1999, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Referring to Figure 4, the circuit breaker 100 comprises a first housing 102, a second housing 104, and a cover 106 that are securely assembled together with a plurality of screws (not shown). The first housing 102 defines a mechanical compartment 108, having components carrying and commuting load current 110 disposed therein (see Figure 5). The second housing 104 defines an electronics compartment 112, which has current sensing components 114, and neutral current carrying components 116 disposed therein (see Figure 6). A load current from a source (not shown) is connected to a line connection 118 (see Figure 5), and leads along the components carrying and switching current 110, to a charging ear 120 so as to be connect the client with a load (not shown). A neutral current from the load is connected to a neutral ear 122 (see Figure 4), and leads along the components carrying neutral current 116, to a neutral return wire 124, so that the customer is connected to the source. The arc faults are detected and processed by the detection components 114. As described more particularly hereinafter, the arc fault circuit interrupter 100 is preferably assembled in such a way that electrical interconnections are made, that is, electrical connections between the mechanical and electronic compartments 108 and 112, without disarming any previously assembled compartment. Referring to Figure 5, the mechanical compartment 108 is shown in detail. The first housing 102 is of a generally rectangular shape, and is formed of electrical insulating material, i.e. plastic. The first housing 102 comprises a first insulating tab 126, a first flange 128, and a first side wall 130. The first tab 126 protrudes forward from the front of the first housing 102 adjacent to the loading ear 120, to provide an insulating barrier . The first flange 128 extends around the periphery of the first side wall 130. A first rectangular groove 132 is located in the first flange 128, in the upper and rear part of the first housing 102, and is sized to receive a pole handle 134. The first side wall 130 and the first flange 128 define the mechanical compartment 108, which includes the components that carry and switch load current 110. The components that carry and switch load current 110 inside the mechanical compartment 108 are connected electrically, for example, they are welded, screwed, or crimped, to form a charge current path. The charging current path begins at the line connection 118, where the charging current enters the mechanical compartment 108. The line connection 118 includes a lower tab 138 which is connected to a line of the source (not shown), and a fixed contact 140 extending downwardly from the upper end of the line connection 118. A blade 142 is pivotally coupled to the first housing 102, and pivotally attached to the insulated pole handle 134. A lower end of the blade 142 includes a 14-4 flat contact, which is forced against contact 140, to provide electrical continuity for the load current. The pole handle 134 joins pivotally to the first housing 102, and extends outwardly from the mechanical compartment 108 into the electronics compartment 112. The blade 142 is electrically connected to a lower distal end of a metal resistor 146 by means of a braid 148. In turn, an upper distal end of the bimetallic resistor 146 is electrically connected to an L-shaped strip 150. The L-shaped strip 150 comprises a vertical strip body 152 and a horizontal strip extension 154. The horizontal strap extension 154 forms a substantially straight angle with the vertical strap body 152, and extends outwardly from the mechanical compartment 108, into the electronics compartment 112. A loading terminal 156 also extends outward from the mechanical compartment 108, up into the electronics compartment 112. The charging terminal 156, in turn, is electrically connected to the with the charging ear 120. The charging current path conducts the charging current from the line connection 136, through the contacts 140 and 144, through the sheet 142, the braid 148, the bimetallic resistor 146 , and the L-shaped strip 150. At this point, the charging current path passes out of the mechanical compartment 108, through the horizontal strip extension 154. The charging current path returns to the mechanical compartment 108 to through the loading terminal 156, and outwardly through the loading ear 120, up to the load. When an arc fault is detected, the pole handle 134 pivots in the clockwise direction, which in turn pivots the blade 142 to separate the contacts 140 and 144, and thereby open the current path of the arc. load. A twisted pair conductor 158 is electrically connected to the lower distal end of the bimetallic resistor 146 and to the horizontal strip extension 154 of the L-shaped strip 150, to detect the arc from the line to neutral, as is well known. This is done by measuring the voltage drop across the bimetallic resistor 146, which results from the rapid changes in load current caused by the arc from the line to the neutral. Referring to Figure 6, the electronics compartment 112 is shown in detail. The second housing 104 is of a generally rectangular shape, and is formed of electrical, ie, plastic, insulating material. The second housing 104 comprises a second insulating tab 160, a second flange 162, and a second side wall 164. The second tab 160 protrudes forward from the front of the second housing 104, adjacent the neutral ear 122, to provide an insulating barrier . The second flange 162 extends around the periphery of the second side wall 164. A second rectangular groove 166 is located in the flange 162, and cooperates with the groove 132, to receive and secure the pole handle 134, when assembled between yes the housings 102 and 104. The second side wall 164 and the second flange 162 define the electronics compartment 112, which includes the current sensing components 114 and the neutral current carrying components 116. The second housing 104 is surely assembled against the first housing 102 with a plurality of screws (not shown), for enclosing the mechanical compartment 108, and for capturing the components therein, as well as for insulating and securing the loading ear 120 between the tabs 126 and 160.

The second side wall 164 of the second housing 104 includes traversed rectangular holes 168 and 170, and a traversed circular hole 172, to provide openings in the second housing 104, in order to allow the loading terminal 156, the strapping extension horizontal 154, and the twisted pair conductor 158 extend through the electronics compartment 112. This makes it possible to complete all the electrical interconnections between the compartments 108 and 112 in the electronics compartment 112. During production, this allows the compartments 108 and 112 are assembled in sequence, without the need to disassemble the mechanical compartment 108. That is, the mechanical compartment 108 is first armed with the interconnecting components 154, 156, and 158 extending outwardly from the compartment 108. Then the second housing 104 is assembled to the first housing 102, enclosing the mechanical compartment 108, but allowing the interconnecting components 154, 156, and 158 to extend therethrough. The electronics compartment 112 can then be assembled, and components associated with the components of the mechanical compartment 108 can be interconnected, without disassembling the mechanical compartment. 112. This provides a large workspace for tools and assembly when the components of compartments 108 and 112 are interconnected. Therefore, high-quality interconnections are made more consistently and cost-effectively than circuit breakers. of the prior art. The second side wall 164 further includes a window 190, preferably in the form of a rectangle. The window 190 is intended to receive the end extension 46 of the plunger 44 of the solenoid 36. More specifically, the end extension 46 freely moves inside the window 190 when the solenoid 36 is actuated after the a circuit board 34 generates a trigger signal, which is received by solenoid 36. End extension 46 engages with test mechanism 200 (shown in Figure 7), to cause handle 134 to pivot, giving as result that the contacts 140 and 144. are separated. The current sensing components 114 comprise the circuit board 34, which is electrically connected to the solenoid 36, the current sensing transformer 38, and optionally the current sensing transformer 38. ' Upon receiving the signals indicating an arc fault, the circuit board 34 provides a trip signal, for firing the arc fault circuit interrupter 100. The twisted pair conductor 158 is electrically interconnected with the circuit board 34. The circuit board 34 senses the voltage across the bimetallic resistor 146, and generates a trip signal, to drive the solenoid 36 in response to a rapid voltage drop, which indicates the arc through the line and neutral conductors. The charging current path is completed by electrically interconnecting the strap extension 154 and the charging terminal 156 with the respective distal ends of a wire connector 180. The wire connector 180 can be formed of different suitable conductive materials, for example Isolated wire, rectangular magnetic wire, square magnetic wire, or braided copper covered with insulated shirt. The wire connector 180 is directed through the center of the detection transformer 38, such that the flow of the charging current through the center of the transformer 38 is in a known direction. The components that carry neutral current 116 inside the electronics compartment 112 are electrically connected, for example, soldered, screwed, or crimped, to form a neutral current path for the neutral current. The neutral current path starts at the neutral ear 122, where the neutral current enters the electronics compartment 112. The neutral ear 122 ensures the neutral current connected to the load against a neutral terminal 182, to provide electrical continuity thereto. The neutral terminal 182 is electrically connected to the neutral return wire 124 by means of a copper braid 184. An insulated jacket 186 surrounds a portion of the copper braid 184, and provides electrical insulation between the copper braid 184 and the board circuit 34. The copper braid 184 is directed through the center of the detection transformer 38, such that the flow of the neutral current through the center of the transformer 38 is in the opposite direction to the flow of the charging current. through the wire connector 180. Both the copper braid 184 of the neutral current path, and the wire connector 180 of the load current path, are routed through the current sensing transformer 38, to detect the Arc from the line to Earth, as is well known. This is done by directing the flow of the neutral current through the detection transformer 38 in the direction opposite to the flow of the charging current. The total current flow through the detection transformer 38 in this manner is canceled, unless an external ground fault current is caused by the arc from the line to ground. The resulting differential signal, detected by the detection transformer 38, indicates the ground fault current, and is processed by the circuit board 34. The optional current sensing transformer 38 'is used for earth fault applications, in where a separate sensor is needed to detect a customer's inappropriate wiring, for example, that the neutral current path is wired backward. That is, the copper braid 184 of the neutral current path is routed through the optional current sensing transformer 38 '. The resulting signal, detected by the optional current detection transformer 38 ', indicates the direction and magnitude of the neutral current, and is processed by the circuit board 34. Turning now to Figures 1 to 8, Figure 7 illustrates the 200 test mechanism in greater detail. It is understood that the test mechanism 200 of Figure 7 is merely of an exemplary nature, and it is within the scope of the present invention that another known test mechanism 200 can be employed with the test button assembly 32 which includes the double test button 10 and circuit board 34, to cause handle 134 to pivot, resulting in contacts 140 and 144 being opened to interrupt the current during AFCI or GFCI trip conditions. The test mechanism 200 includes a lock assembly 202 having a pivotable armature lock (not shown). the pivotable armature lock comprises the main component of the test mechanism 200, which interacts with the end extension 46 on which, after the solenoid 36 is actuated, the solenoid rod is driven, causing the end extension 46 to travel inside of the the window 190 (Figure 6). When the end extension 46 itself is pushed, it contacts the armature lock, causing the armor lock to rotate in the counterclockwise direction. The pivotable armature lock selectively engages with, and positions, a ditch 204, such that when the armature lock is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, the ditch 204 is released from the armor lock. , resulting in the gutter 204 being free to rotate. The ditch 204 rotates downward in a clockwise fashion, and falls out of the window 190. A spring 206 interconnected between the leaf 142 and the ditch 204, creates a force therebetween, such that when the gutter 204 rotates in the clockwise direction, after being released from the armor lock, the force of the spring causes the blade 142 and the handle 134 to rotate to a firing position, where the contacts 140 and 144. are opened. As best shown in Figures 2 and 6 , a test wire 195 is directed through the detection transformer 38, such that the current flow in the test wire 195 through the center of the detection transformer 38 is a known direction. During the non-test and non-trip conditions, the total current flowing in opposite directions through the transformer 38 cancels one another, and therefore, the detection transformer 38 does not detect a differential signal, which indicates a trigger or test condition. The test wire 195 is electrically connected to the circuit board 34 and to the assembly of the test button 32, such that, when the second signal (GFCI test signal) is generated, when the pivoting blade spring contacts. and the first plane 40, a current is passed through the test wire 195, causing a current differential through the detection transformer 38. More specifically, one end of the test wire 195 is electrically connected to the first plane 40, and an opposite end of the test wire 195 is electrically connected to the horizontal strip extension 154, after the test wire 195 has passed through the detection transformer 38. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, in FIG. the example circuit breaker 100, the AFCI circuit test proceeds as follows. The first cantilever surface 12 of the test button 10 is depressed, causing the pivoting blade spring 20 to contact the second plane 42, resulting in the first signal being injected into the circuit board 34. The first signal comprises a test signal for the AFCI circuit of the circuit breaker 100, and in response to the first signal, the circuit board 34 generates a trigger signal communicating with the solenoid 36. Upon receiving the trigger signal, the solenoid is operated 36, and the plunger 44 is driven, such that the end extension 46 of the plunger 44 contacts and causes the armature lock to rotate in the counterclockwise direction, thereby releasing the ditch 204 This results in the handle 134 rotating, causing the contacts 140 and 144. to open. The test button 10 is designed in such a way that, once the first cantilever portion 12 is no longer pressed, the test button ba 10 moves back to its original off position, wherein the pivotable leaf spring 20 is centered and not in contact with the first or second planes 40 and 42. Accordingly, after the firing mechanism is reset Circuit breaker 100, including handle 134, blade 142, and contacts 140 and 144, to a non-firing position, test button 10 is in an off position, and consequently, no signals are being supplied Testing the circuit board 34. In order to establish the circuit GFCI of the circuit breaker 100, the second cantilever surface 14 is depressed, causing the pivoting blade spring 20 to contact the first plane 40, resulting in the second signal is injected into the circuit board 34 in the following manner. After contact between the pivoting blade spring 20 and the first plane 40, the test wire 195, which is routed through the detection transformer 38, carries current through the detection transformer 38, thereby canceling the difference in the total current flowing through the detection transformer 38, because the opposite flow of current through the detection transformer 38 no longer cancels one another. The resulting differential signal, detected by the detection transformer 38, indicates the ground fault current, and is processed by the circuit board 34. As described above, in response to the second signal, the circuit board 34 generates a trip signal that communicates with the solenoid 36. Al receiving the trigger signal, the solenoid 36 is actuated, and coupled with the test mechanism 200, to cause rotation of the handle 134, and to open the contacts 140 and 144 in the manner described hereinabove. Figure 8 is a schematic of the example circuit for the double test button 10, and therefore, is of a self-explanatory nature. Accordingly, the present invention provides an element for providing a first test signal and a second test signal, wherein the first test signal is generated to test the AFCI circuit, and the second test signal is generated to test the circuit GFCI. The test button assembly 32 is merely an example element for providing these two signals, and it is within the scope of the present invention that other elements can be used, such as a switching device, for example, a toggle switch having two positions that generate first and second signals. Of course, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the test mechanism 200 and the double test button 10 can be employed in a two-pole arc fault circuit interrupter. In this mode, the AFCI and GFCI of the two-pole arc fault circuit interrupter are tested in an easy and convenient manner. Although the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In accordance with the foregoing, it is understood that the present invention has been described by way of illustration and not limitation.

Claims (26)

1. A test mechanism for a circuit breaker, which comprises: a circuit board; a test button assembly that includes a test button and signaling components that are electrically connected to the circuit board, the test button having a first position and a second position, wherein the placement of the test button in the first position produces a first signal, and placing the test button in the second position produces a second signal; and a firing mechanism including a pair of separable contacts, the firing mechanism being electrically connected to the circuit board, such that, in response to receiving one of the first and second signals, the circuit board generates a firing signal which causes the firing mechanism to separate the pair of separable contacts.

The test mechanism of claim 1, wherein the signaling components comprise first and second conductive planes, and an intermediate pivotal conductor to the first and second conductive planes, the first and second conductive planes and the pivotable conductor being electrically connected to the first and second conductive planes. circuit board.

3. The test mechanism of claim 2, wherein placing the test button in the first position causes the pivotable conductor to make contact with the first conductor plane, producing the first signal, and placing the test button in the second position causes the pivoting conductor to make contact with the second conductor plane, producing the second signal. The test mechanism of claim 1, wherein the circuit breaker includes an arc fault circuit interruption circuit (AFCI) and a ground fault circuit interruption circuit (GFCI). The test mechanism of claim 4, wherein the first position comprises a test position for the AFCI circuit, and the second position comprises a test position for the GFCI circuit. The test mechanism of claim 2, wherein the circuit breaker further includes a current sensing transformer. The test mechanism of claim 6, wherein the first conductor plane is electrically connected to an end of a test wire that passes through the current sensing transformer, an opposite end of the test wire being electrically connected to a test wire. bimetallic resistor. The test mechanism of claim 7, wherein the second signal is provided by passing current through the test wire, when the pivotable conductor and the first conductive plane are in contact. The test mechanism of claim 1, wherein the firing mechanism includes a pivotable handle. The test mechanism of claim 9, wherein the trip mechanism includes a solenoid that is electrically connected to the circuit board, and the solenoid actuation causes the handle to pivot and separate the contacts. The test mechanism of claim 10, wherein the solenoid is actuated upon receiving the trigger signal from the circuit board. The test mechanism of claim 2, wherein the second signal is provided to the circuit board after contact between the pivotable conductor and the second conductor plane. The test mechanism of claim 2, wherein the pivotable conductor comprises a pivotable leaf spring. 14. A circuit breaker, which comprises: a trip unit that includes a circuit board; a pair of separable contacts to interrupt the flow of current; and a test mechanism including a test button and signaling components for injecting first and second signals to the circuit board, wherein the test button includes a first position for providing the first signal, and a second position for providing the second signal, and wherein the circuit board generates a trip signal in response to receiving one of the first and second "signals, with the trip signal being supplied to an actuator that causes the separation of the contacts. of the claim 13, where the first position is to test an arc fault circuit interruption, and the second position is to test a ground fault circuit interruption. 16. The circuit breaker of the claim 14, wherein the actuator comprises a solenoid. The circuit breaker of claim 14, wherein the signaling components comprise first and second conductive planes, and an intermediate pivotable conductor to the first and second conductive planes, the first and second conductive planes and the pivotable conductor being electrically connected to the first and second conductive planes. circuit board. 18. The circuit breaker of claim 14, which further includes an arc fault circuit interruption circuit (AFCI), and a ground fault circuit interruption circuit (GFCI). The circuit breaker of claim 18, wherein the first position comprises a test position for the AFCI circuit, and the second position comprises a test position for the GFCI circuit. The circuit breaker of claim 17, wherein the first conductor plane is electrically connected to an end of a test wire that passes through the current sensing transformer, an opposite end of the test wire being electrically connected to an bimetallic resistor. The circuit breaker of claim 20, wherein the second signal is provided by passing current through the test wire, when the pivotable conductor and the first conductive plane are in contact. 22. The circuit breaker of claim 17, wherein the second signal is provided to the circuit board after contact between the pivotable conductor and the second conductor plane. 23. A test mechanism for a circuit breaker, which comprises: a circuit board; a test button assembly that includes a test button, the test button assembly having an element for providing a first test signal to the circuit board, and an element for providing a second test signal to the circuit board; and a firing mechanism including a pair of separable contacts, the firing mechanism being electrically connected to the circuit board, such that, in response to receiving the first and second test signals, the circuit board generates a firing signal which causes the firing mechanism to separate the separable contact torque. The test mechanism of claim 23, wherein the first and second signal providing element comprises first and second conductive planes, and an intermediate pivotable conductor to the first and second conductive planes, the pivotable conductor being coupled to the test button, electrically connecting the first and second conductive planes and the pivotable conductor with the circuit board. 25. The test mechanism of claim 24, wherein positioning the test button in a first position causes the pivotal conductor to make contact with the first conductor plane, producing the first test signal, and the placement of the test button. in a second position causes the pivoting conductor to make contact with the second conductor plane, producing the second test signal. 26. The test mechanism of claim 25, wherein the first position comprises a test position for an AFCI circuit, and the second position comprises a test position for a GFCI circuit. CIRCUIT SWITCH WITH A DOUBLE TEST BUTTON MECHANISM SUMMARY OF. THE INVENTION In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a double test mechanism for use in a circuit breaker is presented. More specifically, the double test mechanism includes a double test button comprising a single switch to test both circuit breaker AFCI and GFCI circuits. The test mechanism includes a circuit board, which is part of the circuit breaker, and a test button assembly that includes a test button and signaling components that are electrically connected to the circuit board.