System and method for operating a power distribution system

Abstract

A method and power distribution system (50, 150, 250) for operation in a low-power mode includes a main power distribution node (16) defining a main power distribution switch (40) having an output (60) and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the power distribution switch (40), at least one enabled electrical load (48) downstream of the main power distribution node (16) is connected to the main power distribution node (16) via the main power distribution switch (40), and the main power distribution node includes a main power distribution node power source (58, 158) configured to supply power to the output (60) of the main power distribution switch (40) when the main power distribution switch (40) is operating in the second non-conducting mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to methods and systems for operating power distribution systems. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical power systems (such as those found in aircraft power distribution systems) employ power generation systems or power sources (e.g., generators) to produce electricity to power the aircraft's systems and subsystems. As electricity flows through busbars to deliver power from the power source to the electrical load, distribution nodes distributed throughout the power system ensure that the power delivered to the electrical load meets the design power specifications for the load. Distribution nodes may further provide, for example, switching operations to selectively enable or disable power delivery to specific electrical loads based on, for example, the availability of power supply, the criticality of the electrical load's functionality, or the aircraft's operating mode such as takeoff, cruise, or ground operation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a power distribution system including a main distribution node defining a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node includes a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power, and a controller module connected to the main distribution node. The points are associated and configured to identify a subset of electrical loads that are expected to be energized during the idle state of the power distribution system, define a set of enabled electrical loads, identify a subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes that are not associated with any of the enabled electrical loads, and switchably disconnect the corresponding subset of the auxiliary power distribution nodes from the restricted power supply device by opening a subset of the main power distribution switches in the main power distribution nodes located upstream of the subset of the auxiliary power distribution nodes, and supply a second power to the output of the opened main power distribution switches, wherein the second power reduces the leakage current across the corresponding main power distribution switches.

[0004] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method for reducing leakage current in a power distribution system, comprising: identifying a subset of electrical loads that are expected to be energized during an idle state of the power distribution system; defining a set of enabled electrical loads; identifying a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes not associated with any of the enabled electrical loads; switchably disconnecting the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes from a restricted power supply device by opening a subset of main distribution switches located upstream of the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes; and supplying a low-voltage power supply to the output of the opened main distribution switches, wherein the low-voltage power supply reduces leakage current across the main distribution switches.

[0005] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a power distribution system including a main distribution node defining a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node includes a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power; a first auxiliary distribution node including at least one enabled electrical load operable in a low-power mode of the power distribution system, the first auxiliary distribution node being connected to the main distribution node via a first main distribution switch; and a second auxiliary distribution node not associated with any enabled electrical load operable in the low-power mode of the power distribution system, the second auxiliary distribution node being connected to the main distribution node via a second main distribution switch. In response to a power distribution system operating in a low-power mode, a second auxiliary power distribution node is selectively disconnected from the power source of the power distribution system, and wherein a second power is supplied from the power source of the main power distribution node to the second auxiliary power distribution node to operably reduce leakage current through the second main power distribution switch.

[0006] The present invention provides a set of technical solutions, as follows.

[0007] Technical Solution 1. A power distribution system, comprising:

[0008] A main distribution node defining a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node includes a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and provide a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power; and

[0009] The controller module, which is associated with the main power distribution node and configured to:

[0010] Identify a subset of electrical loads that are expected to be energized during the idle state of the power distribution system, and define a set of enabled electrical loads;

[0011] Identify a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes that are not associated with any of the electrical loads in the set of enabled electrical loads;

[0012] By opening a subset of the main power distribution switches located upstream of the subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes in the main power distribution node, the corresponding subset of the auxiliary power distribution node can be switched off from the restricted power supply device; and

[0013] The second power is supplied to the output of the opened main distribution switch, wherein the second power reduces the leakage current across the respective main distribution switch.

[0014] Technical Solution 2. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the second power is a voltage lower than the first power.

[0015] Technical Solution 3. A power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the second power limit is applied to the leakage current through the main power distribution switch.

[0016] Technical Solution 4. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the power source of the power distribution node is the restricted power supply device.

[0017] Technical Solution 5. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the set of activated electrical loads includes normally energized loads.

[0018] Technical Solution 6. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the first power is 270 volts DC and the second power is 28 volts DC.

[0019] Technical Solution 7. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes a first power source and a second dischargeable power source, wherein when the first power is supplied through the first power source, the power distribution system can operate in a normal power mode, and when the first power is supplied through the second dischargeable power source, the power distribution system can also operate in a low power mode, wherein the low power mode consumes less power than the normal power mode.

[0020] Technical Solution 8. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the second power is sufficient to operatively enable another controller module in standby mode.

[0021] Technical Solution 9. A power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the first power is supplied to the main power distribution node.

[0022] Technical Solution 10. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the first power is supplied by a dischargeable power source.

[0023] Technical Solution 11. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the set of main power distribution switches includes a set of solid-state switches.

[0024] Technical Solution 12. An aircraft comprising a power distribution system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions.

[0025] Technical Solution 13. The aircraft according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the set of activated electrical loads includes at least one of a monitoring load, a safety monitoring load, an electric door load, or a lighting load.

[0026] Technical Solution 14. An aircraft according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the second power limits the leakage current through the subset of the main power distribution switch during an inactive period in which the first power is supplied by a dischargeable power source.

[0027] Technical Solution 15. A method for reducing leakage current in a power distribution system, comprising:

[0028] Identify a subset of electrical loads that are expected to be energized during the idle state of the power distribution system, and define a set of enabled electrical loads;

[0029] Identify a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes that are not associated with any of the electrical loads in the set of enabled electrical loads;

[0030] By opening the main power distribution switch in the main power distribution node upstream of the subset of the auxiliary power distribution node, the subset of the auxiliary power distribution node can be switched off from the restricted power supply device; and

[0031] A low-voltage power supply is supplied to the output of the main power distribution switch that is turned on, wherein the low-voltage power supply reduces the leakage current across the main power distribution switch.

[0032] Technical Solution 16. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes identifying a second subset of auxiliary distribution nodes associated with at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads, and switching the second subset of the auxiliary distribution nodes to the restricted power supply device to operatively energize the subset of the enabled electrical loads.

[0033] Technical Solution 17. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the subset of the enabled electrical loads includes at least one of a monitoring load, a security monitoring load, an electric door load, or a lighting load.

[0034] Technical Solution 18. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes further includes a controller module configured to controllably operate the switching operation of each corresponding auxiliary distribution node, and wherein the supplied low-voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module.

[0035] Technical Solution 19. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the supplied low-voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module in a low-power standby mode.

[0036] Technical Solution 20. A power distribution system, comprising:

[0037] A main distribution node defines a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node includes a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power;

[0038] A first auxiliary power distribution node includes at least one enabled electrical load operable in a low-power mode of the power distribution system, and the first auxiliary power distribution node is connected to the main power distribution node via a first main power distribution switch; and

[0039] The second auxiliary power distribution node is not associated when there is no active electrical load and can operate in the low power mode of the power distribution system. The second auxiliary power distribution node can be connected to the main power distribution node via the second main power distribution switch.

[0040] In response to the power distribution system operating in the low-power mode, the second auxiliary power distribution node is selectively disconnected from the power distribution system power source, and wherein the power source of the main power distribution node provides the second power to the second auxiliary power distribution node to operably reduce the leakage current through the second main power distribution switch.

[0041] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following description and the appended claims. Aspects of this disclosure are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, and together with the specification serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The invention (including its preferred mode) is fully disclosed and can be practiced by one of ordinary skill in the art in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0043] Figure 1 This is a top-down schematic diagram of the aircraft and power distribution system based on the various aspects described in this article.

[0044] Figure 2 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the aircraft's power distribution system.

[0045] Figure 3 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 2Further detailed schematic diagram of the aircraft's power distribution system.

[0046] Figure 4 This is another schematic diagram of the power distribution system based on the various aspects described in this article.

[0047] Figure 5 This is yet another schematic diagram of the power distribution system based on the various aspects described in this article. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The aspects of this disclosure are described herein in the context of a power source in an aircraft that generates electrical power from an energy source such as a turbine engine, jet fuel, hydrogen, batteries, etc. However, it will be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto and has general applicability to distribution systems in non-aircraft applications, including other mobile applications and non-mobile industrial, commercial, and residential applications. For example, applicable mobile environments may include aircraft, spacecraft, space-launched vehicles, satellites, locomotives, automobiles, etc. Commercial environments may include manufacturing facilities or power generation and distribution facilities or infrastructure.

[0049] In particular, aspects of this disclosure can be applied to power distribution systems having limited power supply sources or limited power sources. As used herein, a “limited power source” can include any power source whose supply power is limited in amount or quantity over a period of time through, for example, a discharge cycle of operation. Limited power sources can include, but are not limited to, fuel cell systems, hydrogen fuel cell systems, capacitors, supercapacitors, battery systems, rechargeable systems, any group or combination of the foregoing examples. In another non-limiting example, a limited power source can include a power source that can be depleted but is inconvenient or not practically recharged or replenished (e.g., no active replenishing power source is available, or only intermittent replenishing power sources are available). In another non-limiting example, a “limited power source” can also be limited by a timing aspect associated with the energy supply operating cycle. For example, a battery can have a limited effective discharge timing period until the potential voltage drops below a threshold, while in another example, a solar cell or photovoltaic cell can only generate power for a limited time during a solar cycle. In this sense, a limited power source can include wind-generated energy, photon energy sources, etc., with a limited effective power generation cycle or cycle. In yet another non-limiting example, a “limited power source” may include a combination of a time-limited source and a discharge-limited source (e.g., solar energy used to charge a battery pack that is discharging at night).

[0050] In contrast to a “limited power source,” a “constant power source” or “unlimited power source” can include a power source capable of or configured to generate a predicted or predetermined amount of power during the intended operation of a power distribution system. In a non-limiting example, a constant power source can include a generator system that generates power in response to the powered movement of an internal combustion engine, or a connection to a continuous power source such as a ground-based power facility. Thus, as used herein, a constant power source is not limited by discharge cycles.

[0051] As used herein, the term "group" or "set" of elements can refer to any number of elements, including only one. As used herein, the term "upstream" refers to a direction opposite to the direction of electrical, power, or current flow, and the term "downstream" refers to a direction in the same direction as the direction of electrical, power, or current flow.

[0052] Furthermore, as used herein, while a sensor may be described as “sensing” or “measuring” a corresponding value, sensing or measuring may include determining a value that indicates or is associated with the corresponding value, rather than directly sensing or measuring the value itself. The sensed or measured value may be further provided to additional components. For example, the value may be provided to a controller module or processor, which may perform processing on the value to determine a representative value or electrical characteristic representing said value.

[0053] Furthermore, although this document may use terms such as “voltage,” “current,” and “power,” it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these terms can be related to each other when describing aspects of circuit operation or circuitry.

[0054] All directional references (e.g., radial, axial, up, down, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise) are used solely for identification purposes to aid the reader in understanding this disclosure and do not impose limitations, particularly regarding their location, orientation, or use. Unless otherwise indicated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between component sets and relative movement between components. Similarly, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two components are directly connected and fixed to each other. In a non-limiting example, a connection or disconnection may be selectively configured to provide, enable, disable, etc., an electrical connection between corresponding components. A non-limiting example of a distribution bus connection or disconnection may be enabled or operated by a switch, bus tie logic, or any other connector configured to enable or disable energization of electrical loads downstream of the bus. Additionally, as used herein, “electrical connection” or “electrical coupling” may include wired or wireless connections. The exemplary drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings may vary.

[0055] Additionally, as used herein, a “controller” or “controller module” can include components configured or adapted to provide instructions, control, operation, or any form of communication to an operable component to enable its operation. A controller module can include any known processor, microcontroller, or logic device, including but not limited to: field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), full-authority digital engine control (FADECs), proportional controllers (P), proportional-integral controllers (PI), proportional-derivative controllers (PD), proportional-integral-derivative controllers (PID controllers), hardware-accelerated logic controllers (e.g., for encoding, decoding, code conversion, etc.), and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of controller modules may be configured or adapted to run, operate, or otherwise execute program code to achieve operational or functional results, including performing various methods, functionalities, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measurement of values, etc., to enable or implement the operational or technical operations described herein. Operational or functional results may be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or false indications, etc. While "program code" is described, non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing a specific task or implementing a specific abstract data type. In another non-limiting example, the controller module may also include data storage components accessible by the processor, including memory, whether transient, volatile, or non-transient memory, or non-volatile memory.

[0056] Other non-limiting examples of memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), fast memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory, such as disks, DVDs, CD-ROMs, fast drives, universal serial bus (USB) drives, etc., or any suitable combination of these types of memory. In one example, program code may be stored in memory in a machine-readable format accessible to a processor. Additionally, memory may store various types of data, sensed or measured data values, inputs, generated or processed data, etc., accessible to a processor to provide instructions, control, or operations to implement functions or operational results, as described herein. In another non-limiting example, a control module may include comparing a first value with a second value and operating or controlling the operation of additional components based on the satisfaction of that comparison. For example, when a sensed, measured, or provided value is compared with another value (including a stored or predetermined value), the satisfaction of that comparison may result in an action, function, or operation controllable by a controller module. As used herein, the term “satisfied” or “satisfied” in a comparison is used to mean that the first value satisfies the second value, for example, equal to or less than the second value, or within the range of values ​​of the second value. It will be understood that such a determination can be easily modified to be satisfied by a positive / negative comparison or a true / false comparison. Example comparisons may include comparing a sensed or measured value with a threshold or threshold range.

[0057] As used herein, a controllable switching element or "switch" is an electrical device that can be controlled to switch between a first operating mode or a first mode and a second operating mode or a second mode, in which the switch is "closed" with the intent to transfer current from the switch input to the switch output, and in the second operating mode or the second mode, the switch is "open" with the intent to prevent current from transferring between the switch input and the switch output. In a non-limiting example, connection or disconnection (e.g., connection enabled or disabled by a controllable switching element) can be selectively configured to provide, enable, disable, or otherwise electrically connect between corresponding elements.

[0058] This disclosure can be implemented in any circuit environment with switches. Non-limiting examples of circuit environments that may include aspects of this disclosure may include an aircraft power system architecture that implements the generation of electrical power from at least one spool of a turbine engine (preferably a gas turbine engine) and the delivery of that electrical power to a set of electrical loads via at least one solid-state switch, such as a solid-state power controller (SSPC) switching device. A non-limiting example of an SSPC may include a high-power switch based on silicon carbide (SiC) or gallium nitride (GaN). SiC or GaN can be selected based on their solid-state material construction, their ability to handle high voltage and high power levels with a smaller and lighter form factor, and their high-speed switching capability to perform electrical operations very quickly. Additional switching devices or additional silicon-based power switches may be included.

[0059] See now Figure 1 The image shows an aircraft 10 having at least one turbine engine, shown as a left engine system 12 and a right engine system 14. Alternatively, the power system may have fewer or more engine systems. The left and right engine systems 12, 14 may be substantially identical and may further include at least one power source, such as a set of corresponding generators 18. The left and right engine systems 12, 14 may further include another corresponding power source, such as a second motor or a set of generators (not shown). Non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may be included, for example, where the left engine system 12 includes a first generator 18 as a primary power source and an auxiliary generator as an auxiliary, backup, or redundant power source. The aircraft shown also has a set of power-consuming components or electrical loads 20, such as actuator loads, flight-critical loads, and non-flight-critical loads.

[0060] Electrical load 20 is electrically coupled to at least one of the generators 18 via a power distribution system, which includes, for example, transmission lines or busbars (i.e., power bus 22) and a set of distribution nodes 16. The aircraft 10 may also include a set of supplementary power sources (not shown) selectively connected to the power bus 22 and operable to provide at least a portion of primary power, supplementary power, redundant power, standby power, emergency power, etc. Non-limiting examples of supplementary power sources may include, but are not limited to, dischargeable or rechargeable electrical energy sources such as fuel cells, batteries, capacitors, supercapacitors, a set of energy “groups” of devices, or any other electrical power. This set of supplementary power sources can supply power to the power bus 22 and thus to the set of power distribution nodes 16 or the set of electrical loads 20.

[0061] During typical operation of the aircraft 10, the operating left engine system 12 and right engine system 14 provide mechanical energy, which can typically be extracted via spools, to drive the generator set 18. The generator set 18 then generates power (e.g., AC or DC power) and supplies this power to a power bus 22, which delivers the power to electrical loads 20 located throughout the aircraft 10. Furthermore, during typical operation of the aircraft 10, this set of supplementary power sources can be selectively connected to the power bus 22 and can be operated to provide primary or supplementary power to a subset of the electrical loads 20.

[0062] During non-flight or atypical operation of aircraft 10, additional operational considerations may be included in the power distribution system. For example, when aircraft 10 is parked on the ground or stored in an idle state, or simultaneously, aircraft engine systems 12, 14 are typically not operational or running. As used herein, “idle state” can include any non-operational state (e.g., operations such as flight or flight preparation), whether intentional or unintentional, such as temporary or extended storage, under maintenance operations, delayed operations, etc. In the absence of operation of engine systems 12, 14 and correspondingly, without operation of the generator 18 mechanically driven by engine systems 12, 14, the power supply expectations or demands of the power distribution system can be met or satisfied by this set of supplementary power sources. In this sense, this set of supplementary power sources is independent of the typical operation of aircraft 10 and can operate independently of aircraft 10. Non-limiting examples of this set of supplementary power sources may also include limiting power sources, as explained herein.

[0063] Example power distribution management functions may include, but are not limited to, selectively enabling or disabling power delivery to a specific electrical load 20 based on factors such as available power supply, the criticality of the functionality of the electrical load 20, or aircraft operating modes such as takeoff, cruise, or ground operations. During emergencies or periods of insufficient electrical power generation, including but not limited to engine or generator failures, at least one of the supplementary power sources 24 may be operated, enabled, or connected to provide power to the electrical load 20. Additional management functions may be included.

[0064] During periods of idle state, a portion of the group of electrical loads 20 may be operatively or electrically disabled (e.g., shut off) to conserve electrical power supplied by the limited power source through the power distribution system. Conversely, a subset of electrical loads 20 (such as a predetermined subset of electrical loads 20) may be energized, enabled, activated, or otherwise "standby" for operation regardless of the idle state. For example, a predetermined subset of electrical loads 20 may include electrical loads 20 used regardless of the idle state of the aircraft 10 or the power distribution system. Non-limiting examples of electrical loads 20 used despite being in an idle state may include normally energized loads 20, security monitoring loads 20, electrically accessible loads 20 (e.g., doors, panels, etc.), lighting loads 20, monitoring loads 20, remotely controllable loads 20, etc. In this sense, electrical loads 20 used regardless of the idle state can be considered "enabled loads" during the idle state. As previously stated, enabled loads may be predetermined.

[0065] It should be understood that, although in Figure 1 The aspects of this disclosure are illustrated in the context of an aircraft environment, but the disclosure is not limited thereto and may be applicable in a variety of environments. For example, while this specification is directed to the power system architecture in an aircraft, aspects of this disclosure may also be applied to providing power, supplementary power, emergency power, basic power, etc., in other non-emergency operations such as takeoff, landing, or cruise flight operations.

[0066] also, Figure 1 The number and placement of the various components depicted are also non-limiting examples of aspects associated with this disclosure. For example, although various components (such as electrical loads 20 on the wings of the aircraft 10) are shown in relative positions to the aircraft 10, aspects of this disclosure are not limited thereto, and the components are not limited thereto based on their schematic depiction. Additional configurations of the aircraft 10 are conceivable.

[0067] Now for reference Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an exemplary power distribution system 50 that can be used in aircraft 10 is shown. Power distribution system 50 is shown as having a set of power sources, such as one or more of generators 18, dischargeable or otherwise limited power sources, such as supplementary power units 32, etc., or combinations thereof. As shown, in a non-limiting example, supplementary power unit 32 may include a set of batteries 34. Although a set of batteries 34 is shown, supplementary power unit 32 may include any number of power sources or combinations of power sources, including limited power sources as described herein. Each of generators 18 and supplementary power unit 32 is connected to main power distribution node 16 (e.g., via a corresponding switchable element) via a corresponding switchable element. Figure 1 The main power distribution bus 22 (e.g., at distribution node 16) Figure 1The main power bus 22 is connected to the main power bus 22, and the switchable elements are shown as corresponding generator switches 36 and supplementary power unit switches 38. In this sense, each of the generators 18 or supplementary power units 32 can be independently connected to supply or otherwise energize the main power bus 22.

[0068] The main distribution node 16 may include multiple outputs connected to a corresponding set or subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, which define the hierarchical topology of the power distribution system 50. In a non-limiting example, each output that can be connected to a corresponding auxiliary distribution node 30 may be selectively energized or otherwise supplied from the main power distribution bus 22 via an independent main distribution switch 40. As shown, the main distribution node 16 may include a set of main distribution switches 40. The output of each corresponding main distribution switch 40 may be connected to the auxiliary power distribution bus 42 of the corresponding auxiliary distribution node 30 to energize or supply power to the corresponding auxiliary power distribution bus 42.

[0069] Each auxiliary distribution node 30 may also include a set of auxiliary distribution switches 44 connected to a corresponding group or subset of electrical loads 20. As shown, each electrical load 20 may be selectively energized by the auxiliary distribution power bus 42 via the corresponding auxiliary distribution switch 44. In this sense, each electrical load 20 may be independently controllable or energized via the corresponding auxiliary distribution switch 44. Moreover, as shown, at least one group or subset of electrical loads 20 for at least one of the auxiliary distribution nodes 30 may include at least one enabled electrical load 48, as defined herein. The electrical loads 20 are also shown to have at least one typical or conventional electrical load 46, which is not used during idle periods, as described herein. Non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may be included, wherein at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads 48 may be operated by consuming constant power over a period of time. In another non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads 48 is temporarily operable, for example, operable within a time interval period. The temporary operability of the subset of enabled electrical loads 48 may be periodic or, for example, in response to a command to operate on demand. It may include a combination of an operable subset of the enabled electrical load 48 and a temporarily operable subset.

[0070] During the non-idle state of the power distribution system 50, the power distribution system 50 can be energized or otherwise supplied by the generator 18 via an operating turbine engine, and can be connected to the main distribution node 16 via the generator switch 36. The power distribution system 50 can distribute power to the group of electrical loads 20, 46, 48 via the main distribution node 16, auxiliary distribution nodes 30, or subsets thereof, as needed based on the operational requirements of the system 50. A non-limiting aspect of this disclosure may be further included, wherein the supplementary power unit 32 can further energize or otherwise supply power to the main distribution node 16 via the supplementary power unit switch 38, or supplement the power supplied by the generator 18. Additionally or alternatively, the supplementary power unit 32 can be recharged by power supplied via the generator 18, for example, via the main distribution power bus 22.

[0071] During periods of idle state of distribution system 50, as described herein, generator 18 will generally not operate, and therefore will generally not supply power to or otherwise energize primary distribution node 16 or any downstream auxiliary distribution node 30 or electrical load 20. Non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may be included, for example, where supplementary power unit 32 may be operable to supply at least a portion of power to distribution system 50 to meet the power requirements of at least one active electrical load 48 or a group of active electrical loads 48 as defined herein. Non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may also be included, where supplementary power unit 32 may be operable to supply at least a portion of power to distribution system 50 to meet additional power requirements of a subset of conventional electrical loads 46, a subset of active electrical loads 48, a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, combinations thereof, etc.

[0072] During idle periods, operation of the corresponding group of main power distribution switches 40, the corresponding group of auxiliary power distribution switches 44, and subsets thereof will consume power from the supplementary power unit 32. Even in instances where, for example, various groups or subsets of switches 36, 38, 40, 44 are operably in the open state (e.g., non-conducting mode), leakage current can be conducted through or across the groups or subsets of switches 36, 38, 40, 44, which would otherwise be difficult to avoid. When solid-state devices are used in switching operations, leakage current can reach large power consumption or power depletion over a period of time. As explained, since the supplementary power unit 32 is a limited power supply device, the excessive power consumption will cause the supplementary power unit 32 to discharge more quickly compared to the less power consumption through switching operations, while enabling or otherwise energizing the group or subset of enabled electrical loads 48. In a non-limiting example for illustration, the aircraft power distribution system may include a hierarchical switching topology that distributes power to thousands of electrical loads. In this example, a thousand (or more) switches, each consuming even a small leakage current in the open, non-conducting state, would add up to a much larger total power consumption.

[0073] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Further detailed schematic diagrams of the aircraft's power distribution system are provided. For simplicity and ease of understanding, only a single auxiliary power distribution node 30 is shown; however, aspects of this disclosure apply to each auxiliary power distribution node 30 or a subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes 30.

[0074] As shown in the figure, the present disclosure may include aspects of this distribution node 16, wherein the main distribution node 16 further includes a main distribution node power source 58 connected to and adapted to receive a first power from the main distribution power bus 22. The main distribution node power source 58 may also be connected to each corresponding output, which is connected to or otherwise connectable to each corresponding auxiliary distribution node 30. In this sense, the main distribution node power source 58 may provide a second power to a set of outputs 60, each output 60 electrically connected downstream of a corresponding main distribution switch 40 and upstream of a corresponding auxiliary distribution node 30. In a non-limiting example, the set of outputs 60 may be electrically aligned with a corresponding diode 62, enabling unidirectional power supply from the main distribution node power source 58 to the set of outputs 60. In another non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, the second power may be less than or lower than the first power to meet the power requirements of downstream components, or combinations thereof.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in the figures, a non-limiting aspect of this disclosure may include a controller module 56 for the main distribution node 16, or a controller module 56 associated with the main distribution node 16, communicatively connected to the main distribution node power source 58, and operatively connected to each corresponding main distribution switch 40. In this sense, the controller module 56 may enable, implement, operate, or otherwise control the independent or common operation of a group or subset of the main distribution switches 40. As used herein, the controller module 56 may include a processor and memory. In a non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, the controller module 56 may be further connected to an additional distribution controller module to operate the distribution system 50 in a control mode. The additional distribution controller module may include a local control module, a networked control module, a remote control module capable of providing commands and instructions from a remote location away from the distribution system 50, or a combination thereof.

[0076] The auxiliary distribution node 30 is also shown to include an auxiliary distribution node power supply 54, which is communicatively connected to the controller module 52 of the auxiliary distribution node 30 and operatively connected to each corresponding auxiliary distribution switch 44. In this sense, the controller module 52, which may be similar to the controller module 56 of the main distribution node 16, can enable, implement, operate, or otherwise control the independent or common operation of a group or subset of the auxiliary distribution switches 44.

[0077] During the non-idle state or operating cycle of the power distribution system 50, aspects of the main distribution node 16, auxiliary distribution node 30, or combinations thereof may be indistinguishable from the operation of the conventional power distribution system 50. For example, the main distribution power bus 22 may supply power to the main distribution node power source 58, which in turn may supply power to the controller module 56 to operate the switching operation of the main distribution node 16 as needed. Similarly, the energized auxiliary distribution node 30 includes an energized auxiliary distribution power bus 42, which may supply power to the auxiliary distribution power source 54. The auxiliary distribution power source 54 may in turn supply power to the controller module 52 to operate the switching operation of the auxiliary distribution node 30 as needed.

[0078] However, during idle periods or operating cycles, when only a limited number of designated active electrical loads 48 are energized, aspects of this disclosure can operatively enable the low-power or low-power-dissipation power distribution system 50. For example, during idle periods, the main power distribution bus 22 can be energized by or receive power from the supplementary power unit 34. The main power distribution bus 22 can in turn energize or further supply power to the main power distribution node power source 58. The main power distribution node power source 58 can selectively, independently, or operatively supply power to the respective outputs 60 as needed, and supply power to the controller module 56 as needed to operate the switching operations of the main power distribution node 16.

[0079] In a non-limiting example, the corresponding auxiliary distribution node 30, which does not contain any active or enabled electrical load 48, would typically not receive power from the main distribution node 16, such that the main distribution switch 40 would be set to an open, non-conductive state, for example, by the controller module 56. This would otherwise cause leakage current to dissipate through the open, non-conductive switch 40, as explained herein.

[0080] This disclosure may include non-limiting aspects, such as the primary distribution node power source 58 being activated, supplying or providing a low voltage to the corresponding output 60 associated with the auxiliary distribution node 30, without any active or activated electrical load 48. As used herein, "low voltage" is a voltage less than the typical voltage supplied by the power supply device during normal (non-idle) operation of the distribution system 50 (i.e., "high voltage"). In a non-limiting example, if the typical voltage supplied from the primary distribution node 16 to the auxiliary distribution node 30 during non-idle conditions is 270 volts DC, then the corresponding "low voltage" may be a smaller order of magnitude, such as 10 volts DC or 30 volts DC.

[0081] Operablely, by providing a low voltage to the corresponding output 60 associated with the auxiliary distribution node 30 in the absence of any active or enabled electrical load 48, the amount of leakage current dissipated by the correspondingly open non-conducting switch 40 will be reduced. Furthermore, non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may be included, wherein at least one of the low voltage supplied by the main distribution node power source 58 to the auxiliary distribution node 30 or the controller module 52 of the auxiliary distribution node 30 may be configured or selected such that the controller module 52 can operate in response to the low voltage (supplied via the auxiliary distribution power bus 42 to the auxiliary distribution node power source 54). In this sense, even in the idle state of the distribution system 50, the controller module 52 may be “active” due to conventional power supply devices. This “active” state may, for example, include a “sleep” state, a “standby” state, or a low-power state, and may allow the controller module 52 to maintain an alarm in the event of monitoring or other operational tasks, which may occur in periodic, temporary, on-demand, or otherwise irregular operation, as opposed to continuous operation(s). Additional, non-limiting examples may include remote activation of the controller module 52 while it is in sleep or standby mode, such as via network operation or a command like a "Wake Up Local Area Network (LAN)" command. This can reduce latency in power-on, startup, and startup routines, resulting in a more responsive system overall compared to if the controller module 52 were otherwise inactive. Starting the controller module can take a considerable amount of time and delay the implementation of any commands from the controller module. In this sense, enabling power supply to the controller module 52 may be included as enabling electrical load 48, such that low-power operation of the controller module 52 is expected even during idle periods.

[0082] This disclosure may further include non-limiting aspects, such as the primary distribution node 16 being operable to supply power to or otherwise energize any active or enabled electrical load 48. In this sense, the distribution system 50 may identify or otherwise consider subsets of the electrical loads 20, such as active or enabled electrical loads 48 that are operable or energized during idle periods, and may, for example, control the corresponding primary distribution switch 40 to close or operate in a conducting state to energize the auxiliary distribution node 30, which may further distribute power to the active or enabled electrical load 48.

[0083] Therefore, non-limiting aspects of this disclosure may include that the power distribution system 50 can operate in an idle or low-power state, wherein auxiliary power distribution nodes 30 with enabled electrical loads 48 are energized as needed, and wherein auxiliary power distribution nodes 30 without enabled electrical loads 48 can be switched off and powered by a low voltage that reduces power consumption or power dissipation that would otherwise be attributed to leakage current through the open or closed switches of the respective groups.

[0084] Figure 4 This is another power distribution system 150 according to another aspect of this disclosure. Power distribution system 150 is similar to power distribution system 50; therefore, the same components will be identified by the same reference numerals plus 100, and it should be understood that the description of the same components of power distribution system 50 applies to power distribution system 50 unless otherwise stated. One difference is that the main distribution node power source 158 may also include a separate and independent power supply device 172, shown in one example as including a group of batteries or a group of low-voltage batteries. In this sense, the main power distribution source 158 can independently supply power to the output 60 of the corresponding group, as described above, without requiring the main power distribution bus 22 to be energized by, for example, supplementary power supply unit 32.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the main power distribution source 158 may include a recharge controller 170 that can be connected to the independent power supply device 172 and the main power distribution bus 22 via a recharge switch 174. In this sense, when the independent power supply device 172 is discharging, the independent power supply device 172 can be selectively recharged via the main power distribution bus 22 (via the recharge switch 174), which can then be temporarily energized by the supplementary power unit 32 or the generator 18 (if available). Once the recharging of the main power distribution source 158 is complete, the recharge switch 174 can be controllably opened, and the supplementary power unit 32 can also be opened if necessary.

[0086] Figure 5 This is another power distribution system 250 according to another aspect of this disclosure. Power distribution system 250 is similar to power distribution system 50; therefore, the same components will be identified by the same reference numerals plus 200, and it should be understood that the description of the same components of power distribution system 50 applies to power distribution system 250 unless otherwise stated. One difference is that auxiliary power distribution node 230 can be selectively operated to supply different voltages based on current operating conditions.

[0087] As shown, the output of the corresponding main distribution switch 40 is received in the auxiliary distribution node 230 by parallel components. These parallel components may include: a conductor 284 that transmits the received input to a first output; a voltage converter 280, such as a high-to-low voltage converter, that converts the high voltage received at the input into a lower relative voltage supplied to a second output; and a voltage controller 282 that operably controls a voltage control switch 286 that can be connected to either the first or second output and further connected to the auxiliary distribution power bus 42. The auxiliary distribution node 230 may operate in response to receiving a high voltage (e.g., the voltage supplied by the main distribution node 16 during idle operation of the distribution system 250). In this example, the voltage controller 282 may sense the high voltage received at the parallel input and operate the voltage control switch 286 to connect the output of the voltage converter 280 to the auxiliary distribution power bus 42.

[0088] In another example, auxiliary distribution node 230 is operable in response to receiving a low voltage, such as the voltage supplied by primary distribution node 16 during idle operation of distribution system 250 (e.g., as referenced). Figure 3 , Figure 4 (or combinations thereof shown and explained). In this example, voltage controller 282 may sense a low voltage received at a parallel input and operate voltage control switch 286 to connect the output of conductor 284 to auxiliary power distribution bus 42, thereby passing the low voltage to auxiliary power distribution bus 42. In a non-limiting example where enabled electrical loads 48 can operate at low voltage, aspects of this disclosure operably allow these enabled electrical loads 48 to be powered by auxiliary power distribution node 230. In this sense, the low voltage supplied by the main power distribution node power source 58 to the auxiliary power distribution node 230 may be selected or matched to the power demand of the enabled electrical loads 48.

[0089] Therefore, aspects of this disclosure may be included to define a method for reducing leakage current in power distribution systems 50, 150, 250. The method for reducing leakage current may include first identifying a subset of electrical loads 20 that are expected to be energized during the idle state of power distribution systems 50, 150, 250, thereby defining a set of active electrical loads 48. Next, the method may include identifying a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, 230 that are not associated with or supply power to any active or active electrical loads 48. Then, the method has a procedure for operatively or switchably disconnecting the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, 230 from restricted power supply devices such as supplementary power unit 32 or main power source 158 by opening a main distribution switch 40 located upstream of the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, 230 in the main distribution node 16. Finally, the method continues by supplying a low-voltage power supply to the output 60 of the open main distribution switch 40, wherein the low-voltage power supply reduces leakage current across the main distribution switch 40.

[0090] The described order is for non-limiting illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the method in any way, as it should be understood that parts of the method may be performed in a different logical order, may include additional or intermediate parts, or the described part of the method may be divided into multiple parts, or the described part of the method may be omitted without departing from the described method. For example, a non-limiting aspect of this disclosure may be included, which further includes: identifying a second subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, 230 associated with at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads 48, and switchably connecting the second subset of auxiliary distribution nodes 30, 230 to a limited power supply device such as supplementary power unit 32 or auxiliary distribution power source 158 to operatively energize the subset of enabled electrical loads 48.

[0091] In an additional or alternative non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, the method may be included, wherein a subset of the enabled electrical loads 48 includes at least one of a monitoring load, a security monitoring load, an electric door load, or a lighting load. In yet another non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, the method may be included, wherein a subset of the auxiliary power distribution nodes 30, 230 further includes a controller module 52 configured to controllably operate the switching operations of each respective auxiliary power distribution node 30, 230, and wherein the supplied low-voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module 52, for example, in a low-power standby or sleep mode. In yet another non-limiting aspect of this disclosure, the method may be included, wherein the limited power supply device includes a dischargeable power supply device.

[0092] In addition to those shown in the accompanying figures above, this disclosure also considers many other possible aspects and configurations. The aspects disclosed herein provide a method and power distribution system that can operate in low-power or idle states, such as idle states. The technical advantage is that the aforementioned aspects enable the power distribution system to distribute and control power to large electrical loads using solid-state technology with minimal current leakage, while maintaining a rapid response to changing power demands.

[0093] This written description uses examples including the best mode to disclose the invention and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system, and performing any combination method. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that will occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are exactly the same as the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements having a non-substantially different literal language from the claims.

[0094] Further aspects of the invention are provided by the subject matter of the following provisions:

[0095] 1. A power distribution system comprising a main distribution node defining a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node including a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power, and a controller module associated with the main distribution node and configured to identify a subset of electrical loads expected to be energized during an idle state of the power distribution system, define a set of enabled electrical loads, identify a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes not associated with any of the enabled electrical loads, disconnect the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes from a limited power supply device by opening a subset of main distribution switches in a main distribution node upstream of the respective subset of auxiliary distribution nodes, and provide the second power to the output of the opened main distribution switches, wherein the second power reduces leakage current across the respective main distribution switches.

[0096] 2. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the second power is a voltage lower than the first power.

[0097] 3. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the second power limit is applied to the leakage current through the primary power distribution switch.

[0098] 4. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the power source of the power distribution node is the restricted power supply device.

[0099] 5. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the set of enabled electrical loads includes normally energized loads.

[0100] 6. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the first power is 270 volts DC and the second power is 28 volts DC.

[0101] 7. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a first power source and a second dischargeable power source, and wherein when the first power is supplied through the first power source, the power distribution system can operate in a normal power mode, and when the first power is supplied through the second dischargeable power source, the power distribution system can further operate in a low power mode, wherein the low power mode consumes less power than the normal power mode.

[0102] 8. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the second power is sufficient to operatively enable another controller module in standby mode.

[0103] 9. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the first power is supplied to the main power distribution node.

[0104] 10. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the first power is supplied by a dischargeable power source.

[0105] 11. The power distribution system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the set of main power distribution switches comprises a set of solid-state switches.

[0106] 12. An aircraft comprising any of the power distribution systems described in the preceding clauses.

[0107] 13. The aircraft according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the set of enabled electrical loads includes at least one of a monitoring load, a safety monitoring load, an electric door load, or a lighting load.

[0108] 14. An aircraft according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the second power limits leakage current through the subset of the main power distribution switch during inactive periods when the first power is provided by a dischargeable power source.

[0109] A method for reducing leakage current in a power distribution system includes: identifying a subset of electrical loads expected to be energized during an idle state of the power distribution system; defining a set of enabled electrical loads; identifying a subset of auxiliary distribution nodes not associated with any of the enabled electrical loads; switchably disconnecting the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes from a restricted power supply device by opening a main distribution switch in a main distribution node located upstream of the subset of auxiliary distribution nodes; and supplying a low-voltage power supply to the output of the opened main distribution switch, wherein the low-voltage power supply reduces leakage current across the main distribution switch.

[0110] 16. The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes identifying a second subset of auxiliary distribution nodes associated with at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads, and switching the second subset of the auxiliary distribution nodes to the restricted power supply to operatively energize the subset of the enabled electrical loads.

[0111] 17. The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the subset of enabled electrical loads includes at least one of monitoring loads, security monitoring loads, power door loads, or lighting loads.

[0112] 18. The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the subset of the auxiliary distribution nodes further includes a controller module configured to controllably operate the switching operations of each respective auxiliary distribution node, and wherein the supplied low-voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module.

[0113] 19. The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the supplied low-voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module in a low-power consumption standby mode.

[0114] 20. A power distribution system comprising: a main distribution node defining a set of main distribution switches, each main distribution switch having an output terminal and operable in a first conducting mode and a second non-conducting mode, wherein operation in the second non-conducting mode includes leakage current through the distribution switch, and the main distribution node including a main distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power; and a first auxiliary distribution node including at least one enabled electrical load operable in a low-power mode of the power distribution system. An auxiliary distribution node may be connected to the main distribution node via a first main distribution switch; and a second auxiliary distribution node not associated with any enabled electrical loads that may operate in the low-power mode of the distribution system, the second auxiliary distribution node being connected to the main distribution node via a second main distribution switch, wherein, in response to the distribution system operating in the low-power mode, the second auxiliary distribution node is selectively disconnected from the power source of the distribution system, and wherein the power source of the main distribution node provides the second power to the second auxiliary distribution node to operably reduce leakage current through the second main distribution switch.

Claims

1. A power distribution system, comprising: a master power distribution node defining a set of master power distribution switches, each master power distribution switch having an output and operable in a first conductive mode and a second non-conductive mode, and wherein when operated in the second non-conductive mode, a leakage current flows through the power distribution switch, and the master power distribution node includes a master power distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and provide a second power to the output, the second power being less than the first power, wherein the second power is a lower voltage than the first power; and a controller module associated with the master power distribution node and configured to: identify a subset of electrical loads expected to be energized during an idle state of the power distribution system, defining a set of enabled electrical loads; identify a subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes not associated with any of the set of enabled electrical loads; switchably disconnect respective subsets of auxiliary power distribution nodes from a limited power supply by opening a subset of the master power distribution switches positioned upstream of the subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes; and supply the second power to the output of the opened master power distribution switches, wherein the second power reduces a leakage current across respective master power distribution switches.

2. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the second power limits the leakage current through the master power distribution switches.

3. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the master power distribution node power source is the limited power supply.

4. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the set of enabled electrical loads includes always-on electrical loads.

5. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the first power is 270 volts direct current (DC) and the second power is 28 volts DC.

6. The power distribution system of claim 1, further comprising a first power source and a second dischargeable power source, and wherein the power distribution system is operable in a normal power mode when the supplied first power is supplied by the first power source and further operable in a low power mode when the supplied first power is supplied by the second dischargeable power source, wherein the low power mode consumes less power than the normal power mode.

7. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the second power is sufficient to operatively enable another controller module in a standby mode.

8. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the first power is supplied to the master power distribution node.

9. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the first power is supplied by a dischargeable power source.

10. The power distribution system of claim 1, wherein, the set of master power distribution switches includes a set of solid state switches.

11. An aircraft comprising the power distribution system of claim 1.

12. The aircraft of claim 11, wherein, the set of enabled electrical loads includes at least one of a monitoring load, a safety monitoring load, a power door load, or a lighting load.

13. The aircraft of claim 11, wherein, the second power limits the leakage current through the subset of master power distribution switches during an inactivity period in which the first power is supplied by a dischargeable power source.

14. A method of reducing leakage current in a power distribution system, comprising: identifying a subset of electrical loads expected to be energized during an idle state of the power distribution system, defining a set of enabled electrical loads; identifying a subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes not associated with any of the set of enabled electrical loads; switchably disconnecting the subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes from a limited power supply by opening a main power distribution switch in a main power distribution node upstream of the subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes; and supplying a low voltage power supply to an output of the opened main power distribution switch, wherein the low voltage power supply reduces a leakage current across the main power distribution switch.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising identifying a second subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes associated with at least one subset of the enabled electrical loads, and switchably connecting the second subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes with the limited power supply to operatively energize the subset of enabled electrical loads.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The subset of enabled electrical loads includes at least one of a monitoring load, a safety monitoring load, a motorized door load, or a lighting load.

17. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein, The subset of auxiliary power distribution nodes further includes a controller module configured to controllably operate switching operations of each respective auxiliary power distribution node, and wherein the supplied low voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The supplied low voltage power supply is sufficient to operate the controller module in a low power consumption standby mode.

19. A power distribution system, comprising: a main power distribution node defining a set of main power distribution switches, each main power distribution switch having an output and being operable in a first conductive mode and a second non-conductive mode, and wherein when operated in the second non-conductive mode, a leakage current flows through the power distribution switch, and the main power distribution node includes a main power distribution node power source configured to receive a first power and supply a second power to an output, the second power being less than the first power, wherein the second power is a lower voltage than the first power; a first auxiliary power distribution node including at least one enabled electrical load operable in a low power consumption mode of the power distribution system, the first auxiliary power distribution node connectable to the main power distribution node through a first main power distribution switch; and a second auxiliary power distribution node not associated with any enabled electrical loads operable in the low power consumption mode of the power distribution system, the second auxiliary power distribution node connectable to the main power distribution node through a second main power distribution switch; wherein in response to the power distribution system operating in the low power consumption mode, the second auxiliary power distribution node is selectively disconnected from a power distribution system power source, and wherein the main power distribution node power source provides the second power to the second auxiliary power distribution node to operatively reduce the leakage current through the second main power distribution switch.

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