This device, exclusive to Gimson Robotics, provides a significant improvement over the basic circuit protection used in many automation circuits. It is capable of rapidly disconnecting power to a connected motor or actuator in the event of an overload. By allowing a user to adjust both a Threshold Current and Sensitivity Time value, the response to an overload can be fine-tuned to the application, offering a much faster and more predictable response than thermal devices such as fuses or circuit breakers. 

The switch automatically resets itself if the input current is turned off and on again OR if the input polarity reverses/inverts, so you'll no longer need to go hunting for the correct size fuse or to find a tiny reset switch after an overload. These characteristics allow the GR-SENS to be used as a current-based limit switch in installations where it is difficult to mount a conventional limit switch circuit, since if it trips in one direction it then allows the user to reverse back in the opposite direction, away from the overload. 

A single RGB (multicolour) LED provides handy visual feedback of your circuit state. In normal operation this will be solid BLUE or GREEN, indicating the active control mode (where BLUE mode allows current threshold adjustment between 1-6A and GREEN mode allows adjustment between 1-15A). If the device 'trips' due to an overcurrent event, with the output turning off, the LED will illuminate either solid RED for a standard trip (according to the CURR and SENS dial positions), or will flash RED repeatedly if the device registers over 20A for over 30ms, which is a non-adjustable upper limit.

It is an entirely solid-state switching device, using fets rather than mechanical relays to ensure reliable long-term operation. 

The response of the controller is illustrated by the graphs below. Put simply, if the detected current exceeds the Threshold Current setting for LESS than the Sensitivity Time (as shown in the first graph, where t₁ is less than the sensitivity time setting) then the device will not trip and current will continue to flow, however if the current exceeds the threshold for MORE than the Sensitivity Time then the output will be turned off and the current will go to zero (shown in the second graph, where t₂ equals the time setting and the controller turning the output off is shown by the vertical fall in current).

Instruction sheets are included with each device, please click on the link below to download a copy.

Download: GR-SENS V2023 Information Sheet (PDF, 3.6MB)

Copies of the references sheets for older discontinued versions of the GR-SENS are also available:
GR-SENS V2.1 Information Sheet, 15A Version (PDF, 1.8MB)
GR-SENS V2.1 Information Sheet, 5.5A Version (PDF, 1.8MB)

Device Specifications

Operating Voltage

8 - 28V DC

Current Threshold Adjustment

BLUE Mode: 1-6A, GREEN Mode: 1-15A

Time Sensitivity Adjustment

5-600ms

Maximum Limit Threshold

20A for >30ms. Red LED should flash to indicate if this level has been breached

Operating Temperature

-5°C ~ +40°C
Ensure that there is free air flow around the device to prevent overheating

Duty Cycle Rating

For battery or regulated power supply input: 100% duty at 5A, maximum 20A duty at 15A (2 minutes maximum continuous). For PWM controller input: 15% maximum duty (60seconds maximum continuous) at up-to 10A

Weight

45g, including screw terminals

Input Lead

120mm long 16AWG high temperature silicone insulated high strand count cables, with micro automotive (type APS or ATT) blade fuse holder and 20A fuse in-line with one of the two wires

Output Lead

70mm long 16AWG high temperature silicone insulated high strand count cables

Input & Output Connectors

15A-rated screw terminals

Operating Environment

0°C ~ +40°C
Ensure that the device is protected against water or extreme humidity

Product Standards

Tested to BS EN IEC 61000-6-3:2021 and BS EN IEC 61000-6-1:2019