Arc fault detection and protection in digital power distribution systems

Abstract

Arc fault protection for a digital power distribution system powering a device. The system includes an arc fault circuit interrupter ("AFCI") and a controller. The controller is connected to the AFCI. The controller is operable to control the AFCI to disable power to the device. The controller includes a processor and a memory. The controller is configured to send a digital power energy packet through the AFCI to the device, measure an error quantity associated with the digital power energy packet, evaluate the error quantity associated with the digital power energy packet, determine whether an arc fault condition exists based on the evaluation of the error quantity associated with the digital power energy packet, and control the AFCI to disable power to the device when it is determined that an arc fault condition exists.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 931,408, filed November 6, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments described herein relate to safety protection devices and methods for power distribution systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Digital power is a power format in which electrical power is distributed in discrete, controllable units of energy, or packets. Unlike traditional analog power systems, individual energy packets can be associated with data or digital information that can be used to control the operation of devices receiving power from the power system itself. Due to the differences between conventional analog and digital power, conventional fault detection techniques are either incompatible with digital power or cannot be used effectively (e.g., safely) with it.

[0005] An arc fault is a high-power discharge between two or more conductors. Arc faults can generate currents ranging from a few amperes to several thousand amperes, and their intensity and duration can vary. For example, an arc fault occurs when a loose or corroded wiring connection creates intermittent contact, causing current to spark or arc between the contact points. The arc generates heat. This heat, for example, can damage the insulation around individual conductors, leading to an electrical fire. Arc fault protection devices (e.g., arc fault circuit interrupters [“AFCI”]) are any devices designed to prevent arc faults. Conventional arc fault protection devices monitor alternating current for unwanted arcing conditions (e.g., based on amplitude and / or frequency). However, such conventional arc fault protection is ineffective for digital power systems that transmit power in discrete energy packets.

[0006] The embodiments described herein provide arc fault protection for a digital power distribution system supplying power to devices. The system includes an arc fault circuit interrupter (“AFCI”) and a controller. The controller is connected to the AFCI. The controller is operable to control the AFCI to disable power supply to the devices. The controller includes a processor and memory. The controller is configured to send digital power packets to the devices via the AFCI, measure an error quantity associated with the digital power packets, evaluate the error quantity associated with the digital power packets, determine the presence of an arc fault condition based on the evaluation of the error quantity associated with the digital power packets, and, when an arc fault condition is determined to exist, control the AFCI to disable power supply to the devices.

[0007] In some respects, a digital power package includes both an energy payload and a data payload.

[0008] In some respects, the amount of error is associated with one of the following: data loss in the data payload; the amount of attenuation in the data payload; and the amount of distortion associated with the data payload.

[0009] In some aspects, the power supplied to the equipment is between 400W and 600W.

[0010] In some respects, the controller is also configured to determine whether one of the following conditions exists: a cross-line fault, an on-line fault, a ground fault, or a neutral fault.

[0011] In some respects, the amount of error associated with digital power packages is an error cluster arising from unreceived data across a series of power packages.

[0012] In some respects, the amount of error associated with digital power packages is an error cluster arising from unreceived data within a predetermined time period.

[0013] In some respects, the controller is also configured to determine whether an arc fault exists based on a comparison of the error amount with at least one of a frame drop rate threshold, an attenuation threshold, and a signal-to-noise ratio threshold.

[0014] In some cases, arcing faults are caused by at least one of the following: incorrect connections, loose connections, excessive cable length, or external noise.

[0015] In some respects, the controller is also configured to determine whether an arc fault condition exists based on an assessment of the amount of error performed by comparison with a predetermined data packet.

[0016] In some respects, the controller is also configured to determine the presence of an arc fault based on the percentage correlation between digital power packets and predetermined data packets.

[0017] The embodiments described herein provide a power distribution system for supplying power to a device. The system includes a power transmitter, a power receiver, an arc fault circuit interrupter (“AFCI”), and a controller. The power transmitter is configured to receive at least one of alternating current (“AC”) input power and direct current (“DC”) input power, and generate a digital power packet for distribution through the system. The power receiver is electrically connected to the power transmitter to receive the digital power. The AFCI is connected between the power transmitter and the power receiver. The controller is connected to the AFCI. The controller is operable to control the AFCI to disable power from the power transmitter to the power receiver. The controller includes a processor and a memory. The controller is configured to send the digital power packet to the power receiver via the AFCI, measure an error quantity associated with the digital power packet, evaluate the error quantity associated with the digital power packet, determine the presence of an arc fault condition based on the evaluation of the error quantity associated with the digital power packet, and, when an arc fault condition is determined to exist, control the AFCI to disable power supply to the power receiver.

[0018] In some respects, a digital power package includes both an energy payload and a data payload.

[0019] In some respects, the amount of error is associated with one of the following: data loss in the data payload; the amount of attenuation in the data payload; and the amount of distortion associated with the data payload.

[0020] The embodiments described herein provide a method for disabling power supply to devices in a digital power system. The digital power system includes an arc fault circuit interrupter (“AFCI”). The method includes sending a digital power packet to the device via the AFCI, measuring an error quantity associated with the digital power packet, assessing the error quantity associated with the digital power packet, determining, based on the assessment of the error quantity associated with the digital power packet, whether an arc fault condition exists, and, when an arc fault condition is determined to exist, controlling the AFCI to disable power supply to the device.

[0021] In some respects, a digital power package includes both an energy payload and a data payload.

[0022] In some respects, the amount of error is associated with data loss in the data payload.

[0023] In some respects, the amount of error is related to the amount of data payload decay.

[0024] In some respects, the amount of error is related to the amount of distortion associated with the data payload.

[0025] In some aspects, the power supplied to the equipment is between 400W and 600W.

[0026] Before explaining any embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited in their application to the detailed description of the configuration and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments can be practiced or performed in various ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. The use of “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” and variations thereof is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled,” and variations thereof are used extensively and cover direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and coupling.

[0027] Furthermore, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which may be illustrated and described for the purposes of discussion as if most components were implemented solely in hardware. However, those skilled in the art will recognize, based on reading this detailed description, that in at least one embodiment, the electronic aspects may be implemented in software executable by one or more processing units (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Therefore, it should be noted that embodiments may be implemented using multiple hardware and software-based devices and multiple different structural components. For example, “server,” “computing device,” “controller,” “processor,” etc., described in the specification may include one or more processing units, one or more computer-readable medium modules, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connectors (e.g., system buses) for connecting components.

[0028] Relative terms used in conjunction with quantities or conditions, such as “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” etc., will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to include the value and have the meaning prescribed by the context (e.g., the term includes at least the degree of error associated with measurement accuracy, tolerances associated with a particular value [e.g., manufacturing, assembly, use, etc.]). Such terms should also be considered to disclose a range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. For example, the statement “from about 2 to about 4” also discloses a range “from 2 to 4.” Relative terms can refer to positive or negative percentages of indicated values ​​(e.g., 1%, 5%, 10%, or more).

[0029] It should be understood that although some of the accompanying drawings illustrate the hardware and software located within a particular device, these depictions are for illustrative purposes only. Functions described herein as being performed by a single component can be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Similarly, functions performed by multiple components can be combined and performed by a single component. In some embodiments, the components shown may be combined or divided into separate software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, logic and processing may be distributed across multiple electronic processors rather than residing within and being performed by a single electronic processor. Regardless of how they are combined or divided, hardware and software components may reside on the same computing device or may be distributed across different computing devices connected via one or more networks or other suitable communication links. Similarly, components described as performing specific functions may also perform additional functions not described herein. For example, a device or structure “configured” in a certain way is configured at least in this manner, but may also be configured in a manner not explicitly listed.

[0030] Other aspects of the embodiments will become apparent from consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 A digital power distribution system according to an embodiment described herein is shown.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a digital power distribution system according to an embodiment described herein.

[0033] Figure 3 A center-tap isolation transformer for combining data and power on a twisted-pair cable is shown according to an embodiment described herein.

[0034] Figure 4 A digital power transmitter according to an embodiment described herein is shown.

[0035] Figure 5 A power distribution controller according to an embodiment described herein is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Figure 1 A system 100 including a digital power transmitter or server 105 is illustrated. The transmitter 105 is coupled to an alternating current (“AC”) power source 110 (e.g., AC mains power) and one or more direct current (“DC”) power sources 115 (e.g., photovoltaic arrays, battery packs, etc.). In some embodiments, the AC power source 110 bypasses the transmitter 105 and supplies power to a conventional wall socket 120. The transmitter 105 is configured to convert input AC or DC power into digital power. Digital power can be represented as one or more energy packets comprising both energy and data. The digital power energy packets are transmitted from the transmitter 105 to a receiver 125. Figure 1An energy packet for exemplary purposes is shown, comprising a 1.1-millisecond energy payload and a 0.4-millisecond data payload.

[0037] Digital power is received by receiver 125. In some embodiments, the received digital power is received by receiver 125 at a voltage of 330V DC. Transmitter 105 and receiver 125 are capable of one-way communication (e.g., transmitter 105 to receiver 125) or bidirectional communication. Receiver 125 is configured to receive digital power and determine, for example, whether a data portion of the energy packet has been received. If a data portion of the energy packet is not received, a failure may occur during the transmission of digital power from transmitter 105 to receiver 125. Receiver 125 is also configured to convert the received digital power into conventional DC power for further transmission to a first power distribution controller 130. In some embodiments, receiver 125 is configured to transmit digital power to the first power distribution controller 130 in a manner similar to that of transmitter 105 transmitting digital power to receiver 125. In some embodiments, the first power distribution controller 130 is a Cisco 8U Catalyst Digital Building Series Switch.

[0038] The first power distribution controller 130 is configured to receive power at a voltage lower than that received by the receiver 125. For example, the receiver 125 includes a DC-DC converter that progressively reduces the received voltage to a lower level. Alternatively, the first power distribution controller 130 is configured to receive power at the same voltage as the receiver 125. In such an embodiment, the first power distribution controller 130 may include a DC-DC converter that progressively reduces the received voltage to a lower level. In the illustrated embodiment, the first power distribution controller 130 outputs a voltage between 48V DC and 57V DC. In other embodiments, different voltage ranges may be generated (e.g., between 5V DC and 60V DC).

[0039] The first power distribution controller 130 is also configured to relay DC power for further transmission to the second power distribution controller 135. In some embodiments, the first power distribution controller 130 is configured to transmit digital power to the second power distribution controller 135 in a manner similar to how transmitter 105 transmits digital power to receiver 125. The second power distribution controller 135 is configured to receive power at a voltage lower than the power received by the first power distribution controller 130. For example, the first power distribution controller 130 includes a DC-DC converter that progressively reduces the received voltage to a lower level. Alternatively, the second power distribution controller 135 is configured to receive power at the same voltage as the first power distribution controller 130. In such an embodiment, the second power distribution controller 135 may include a DC-DC converter that progressively reduces the received voltage to a lower level. In the illustrated embodiment, the second power distribution controller 135 outputs, for example, a 24V DC voltage. In other embodiments, different voltages may be generated (e.g., between 5V DC and 60V DC). In some embodiments, the second power distribution controller 135 is a nuLEDs SPICEbox.

[0040] Both the first power distribution controller 130 and the second power distribution controller 135 are configured to be electrically and / or communicatively connected to one or more powered devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the first power distribution controller 130 is connected to a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (“HVAC”) unit 140, a refrigerator 145, and an entertainment system 150. In some embodiments, the connection between the first power distribution controller and devices 140, 145, and 150 is made using Cat 5-Cat 8 Ethernet cables. In some embodiments, power and data are provided via Ethernet cables in a Power over Ethernet (“PoE”) implementation. In a PoE implementation, one-way or two-way communication can be achieved between the first power distribution controller 130 and devices 140, 145, and 150.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the second power distribution controller 135 is connected to a light 155, a curtain / blind 160, an input controller 165, and a sensor 170. In some embodiments, the connection between the second power distribution controller 135 and devices 155, 160, 165, and 170 is implemented using CAT 5 to CAT 8 Ethernet cables. In some embodiments, both power and data are provided via Ethernet cables in a PoE implementation. In a PoE implementation, one-way or two-way communication can be achieved between the second power distribution controller 135 and devices 155, 160, 165, and 170.

[0042] Digital power distribution system 200 (e.g.) Figure 1 A simplified schematic diagram of system 100 in [the diagram]. Figure 2As shown in the diagram. Distribution system 200 is configured to regulate energy transfer from source 205 to load 210. Source controller 215 is configured to periodically turn on switch 220 during a predetermined time period (e.g., a sampling time period). In some embodiments, switch 220 is a solid-state switch (e.g., a FET). Load capacitor C LOAD Electrically connected to the terminals of load 210. Load capacitor C LOAD Energy from the terminals of load 210 is stored before switch 220 is opened. Source resistance R SOURCE Electrical connections are made between the terminals of source 205.

[0043] During normal operation, when switch 220 is opened, the load capacitor C LOAD The voltage across its source resistor R SOURCE The decay occurs when the load capacitor C discharges and enters the load 210. Switch 225 is configured to discharge the load capacitor C. LOAD Isolated from load 210. In some embodiments, switch 225 is a solid-state switch (e.g., FET). When switch 225 is open, the load capacitor C... LOAD The only discharge path should be through the source resistor R SOURCE However, for example during a cross-line fault, the resistance from a foreign object (e.g., a person) acts as a leakage resistance R. LEAK The source resistance R is introduced into system 200. SOURCE and leakage resistance R LEAK The parallel combination significantly increases the load capacitor C LOAD Voltage decay rate.

[0044] Before switch 220 is turned on, the load capacitor C LOAD The voltage across the terminals is measured by source controller 215. At the end of the sampling period and before switch 220 is closed, source controller 215 again measures the voltage across the load capacitor C. LOAD The voltage of the load capacitor C is compared at two different times by the source controller 215. LOAD The voltage across the terminals is used to determine if a fault has occurred. If the load capacitor C... LOAD If the voltage drop across the terminals is too fast (or too slow), a fault can be registered and switch 220 will remain open. Load capacitor C LOAD A high voltage decay rate indicates a cross-line fault. Load capacitor C LOAD A low voltage decay rate indicates the presence of an in-line fault. If no fault condition is detected, switches 220 and 225 can be closed. Energy is then transferred between source 205 and load 210 until the next sampling period. In some embodiments, the conduction period between sampling periods is referred to as the energy transfer period.

[0045] In some embodiments, a communication link 230 may be provided between the source controller 215 and the load controller 235. In such an embodiment, the source controller 215 may receive the load-side voltage from the load controller 235. In some embodiments, a digital verification code may be exchanged between the source controller 215 and the load controller 235 before energy is transferred between the source 205 and the load 210. About Figure 2 The described power distribution technology can be applied to Figure 1 Between any two adjacent power distribution components in system 100. For example, the source may be transmitter 105 and the load may be receiver 125; the source may be receiver 125 and the load may be first power distribution controller 130; or the source may be first power distribution controller 130 and the load may be second power distribution controller 135. In some embodiments, the source is one of first power distribution controller 130 or second power distribution controller 135 and the load is one of devices 140-170.

[0046] As described above, the first power distribution controller 130 and the second power distribution controller 135 can be configured in the PoE implementation to provide power and data to devices 140-170. Figure 3 A system 300 is shown for implementing PoE between a first power distribution controller 130 or a second power distribution controller 135 and devices 140-170. Specifically, Figure 3 A center-tap isolation transformer for combining data and power on a twisted-pair cable is shown. In other embodiments, different techniques for implementing PoE can be used.

[0047] In some embodiments, a CAT 5-CAT 8 Ethernet cable is used to transmit Ethernet data between a first power distribution controller 130 or a second power distribution controller 135 and devices 140-170. This Ethernet cable can also be used to provide power to devices 140-170, for example, between 400W and 600W. The output conductor of source circuit 305 is applied to the center tap of isolation transformers 315 and 320 on the source side of system 300. The output conductor of load circuit 310 is applied to the center tap of isolation transformers 325 and 330. On the source side, Ethernet data can be applied to the windings of transformers 315 and 320. On the load side, the signal corresponding to the Ethernet data is received by transformers 325 and 330. Since the transmitted power is DC, the signal corresponding to the Ethernet data does not cause excitation in transformers 315 and 320. As a result, the Ethernet data is not corrupted during transmission.

[0048] Figure 4 Showing more details Figure 1Transmitter 105. Transmitter 105 is electrically and / or communicatively connected to various modules or components of system 100. For example, transmitter 105 is connected to AC power supply 110, one or more DC power supplies 115, and receiver 125. Transmitter 105 includes controller 400, power input module 405, power output module 410, communication interface 415, one or more sensors 420, and user interface 425. Controller 400 includes a combination of hardware and software operable to, for example, generate digital power, monitor transmission failure conditions, etc. Controller 400 includes multiple electrical and electronic components that provide power and operational control for components and modules within controller 400 and / or system 100. For example, controller 400 particularly includes processing unit 435 (e.g., microprocessor, microcontroller, or other suitable programmable device), memory 440, input unit 445, and output unit 450. Processing unit 435 particularly includes control unit 455, arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”) 460, and multiple registers 465 (shown as...). Figure 4 A set of registers in the memory (435, 440, 445, and 450) are implemented using a known architecture. The processing unit 435, memory 440, input unit 445, and output unit 450, along with various modules connected to the controller 400, are connected via one or more control and / or data buses (e.g., common bus 470). Figure 4 The diagram is shown schematically for illustrative purposes.

[0049] Memory 440 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium and includes, for example, a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and data storage area may include combinations of different types of memory, such as read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”) (e.g., dynamic RAM [“DRAM”], synchronous DRAM [“SDRAM”], etc.), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, hard disk, SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, electronic storage devices or other data structures. Processing unit 435 is connected to memory 440 and executes software instructions that can be stored in the RAM of memory 440 (e.g., during execution), the ROM of memory 440 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer-readable data storage medium (e.g., another memory or disk). Software included in embodiments of system 100 or controller 400 may be stored in the memory 440 of controller 400. Software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The controller 400 is configured to retrieve and execute instructions, etc., related to the control methods and steps described herein from memory. In some embodiments, the controller 400 includes a plurality of processing units 435 and / or a plurality of memories 440 for retrieving and executing instructions related to the control methods and steps described herein from memory.

[0050] In some embodiments, the controller 400 or network communication interface 415 includes one or more communication ports (e.g., Ethernet, Serial Advanced Technology Attachment [“SATA”], Universal Serial Bus [“USB”], Integrated Drive Electronics [“IDE”], etc.) for sending, receiving, or storing data associated with the transmitter 105 or the operation of the transmitter 105. In some embodiments, the communication interface 415 is capable of communicating with an external network 430 for controlling and / or monitoring the system 100. The network 430 is, for example, a wide area network (“WAN”) (e.g., a TCP / IP-based network), a local area network (“LAN”), a neighborhood network (“NAN”), a home area network (“HAN”), or a personal area network (“PAN”), employing any of a variety of communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, etc. In some embodiments, network 430 is a cellular network, such as, for example, a Global System for Mobile Communications (“GSM”) network, a General Packet Radio Service (“GPRS”) network, a Code Division Multiple Access (“CDMA”) network, an Evolved Data Optimized (“EV-DO”) network, an Enhanced Data Rate for GSM Evolution (“EDGE”) network, a 3GSM network, a 4GSM network, a 4G LTE network, a 5G New Radio network, a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (“DECT”) network, a Digital AMPS (“IS-136 / TDMA”) network, or an Integrated Digital Enhanced Network (“iDEN”) network, etc.

[0051] Sensor 420 may include a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a temperature sensor, etc. The output signal from sensor 420 can be used by controller 400 to determine various fault conditions of transmitter 105 or system 100. In some embodiments, fault conditions include cross-line faults, in-line faults, grounding faults, arcing faults, neutral line faults, etc.

[0052] User interface 425 may include a combination of digital and analog input or output devices that are required to provide the transmitter 105 with the necessary level of control and monitoring. For example, user interface 425 may include a display, one or more LEDs, and / or input devices such as a mouse, a touchscreen display, multiple knobs, a dial pad, a switch, a button, etc.

[0053] Power input module 405 is configured to receive input power from AC power supply 110 and / or DC power supply 115. Power input module 405 is configured to provide nominal AC or DC voltage to controller 400 or other components of system 100. AC power supply 110 is, for example, a main power supply with a nominal line voltage between 100V and 240V AC and a frequency of approximately 50-60Hz. DC power supply is, for example, a photovoltaic array or battery pack (e.g., an array of battery cells with lithium-based chemistry) capable of providing a high DC voltage (e.g., a voltage between 12V DC and 1000V DC) to the power input module. Power input module 405 is configured to convert the received AC power to DC power and / or progressively reduce the received DC power to a lower voltage. In addition to powering controller 400, power input module 405 is configured to provide power to power output module 410. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, transmitter 105 can communicate with receiver 125 via communication interface 415 or by using power lines between power output module 410 and receiver 125. (See reference...) Figure 2 Controller 400 typically corresponds to source controller 215 and power output module 410 corresponds to switch 220. Controller 400 is configured to generate digital power using energy transfer and sampling cycles, as described above regarding... Figure 2 As described.

[0054] Figure 5 Showing more details Figure 1 A first power distribution controller 130 is electrically and / or communicatively connected to various modules or components of system 100. For example, the first power distribution controller 130 is connected to one or more of receiver 125, second power distribution controller 135, and devices 140-170. The first power distribution controller 130 includes a controller 500, a power input module 505, a power output module 510, a communication interface 515, one or more sensors 520, and a user interface 525. The first power distribution controller 130 also includes an arc fault circuit interrupter (“AFCI”) 530 (e.g., switches 220, 225) for deactivating power to devices 140-170 upon detection of an arc fault condition.

[0055] Controller 500 includes a combination of hardware and software operable to, for example, receive and convert DC power, monitor transmission fault conditions, etc. Controller 500 includes multiple electrical and electronic components that provide power and operational control to components and modules within controller 500 and / or system 100. For example, controller 500 particularly includes a processing unit 535 (e.g., a microprocessor, microcontroller, or other suitable programmable device), a memory 540, an input unit 545, and an output unit 550. Processing unit 535 particularly includes a control unit 555, an ALU 560, and multiple registers 565 (in... Figure 5 A set of registers is shown in the diagram, and the system is implemented using a known architecture. Processing unit 535, memory 540, input unit 545, and output unit 550, along with various modules connected to controller 500, are connected via one or more control and / or data buses (e.g., common bus 570). The control and / or data buses are... Figure 5 The diagram is shown schematically for illustrative purposes.

[0056] Memory 540 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium and includes, for example, a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area and data storage area may include combinations of different types of memory, such as ROM, RAM (e.g., DRAM, SDRAM, etc.), EEPROM, flash memory, hard disk, SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, electronic storage devices or other data structures. Processing unit 535 is connected to memory 540 and executes software instructions stored in the RAM of memory 540 (e.g., during execution), the ROM of memory 540 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer-readable data storage medium, such as another memory or disk. Software included in the implementation of system 100 or controller 500 may be stored in the memory 540 of controller 500. Software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. Controller 500 is configured to retrieve from memory and execute instructions, etc., related to the control methods and steps described herein. In some embodiments, the controller 500 includes a plurality of processing units 535 and / or a plurality of memories 540 for retrieving from the memories and executing instructions related to the control methods and steps described herein.

[0057] In some embodiments, the controller 500 or network communication interface 515 includes one or more communication ports (e.g., Ethernet, SATA, USB, IDE, etc.) for sending, receiving, or storing data associated with the operation of the first power distribution controller 130 or the first power distribution controller 130. In some embodiments, the communication interface 515 is capable of communicating with an external network 430 for controlling and / or monitoring the system 100.

[0058] Sensor 520 may include voltage sensors, current sensors, temperature sensors, etc. The output signal from sensor 520 can be used by controller 500 to determine various fault conditions of the first power distribution controller 130 or system 100. In some embodiments, fault conditions include cross-line faults, in-line faults, grounding faults, arcing faults, neutral line faults, etc.

[0059] User interface 525 may include a combination of digital and analog input or output devices required to achieve the desired level of control and monitoring for the first power distribution controller 130. For example, user interface 525 may include a display, one or more LEDs, and / or input devices such as a mouse, touch screen display, multiple knobs, dial pads, switches, buttons, etc.

[0060] Power input module 505 is configured to receive input power from receiver 125. Power input module 505 is configured to provide a nominal DC voltage to controller 500 or other components of system 100. Power input module 505 is configured, for example, to progressively reduce the received DC power to a lower voltage. In addition to powering controller 500, power input module 505 is configured to provide power to power output module 510. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the first power distribution controller 130 can communicate with the second power distribution controller 135 via a communication interface 515 or by using a power line communication between the power output module 510 and the second power distribution controller 135. The power output module 510 is also configured to provide output power to one or more of the devices 140-170. (As mentioned above regarding...) Figure 3 As described, the connection between the first power distribution controller 130 and the devices 140-170 can be configured to enable the transmission of both power and data via PoE between the first power distribution controller 130 and the devices 140-170.

[0061] Controller 500 is configured to provide arc fault protection to system 100. Controller 500 provides arc fault protection by detecting or determining the presence of an arc fault condition between the first power distribution controller 130 and one or more of devices 140-170. When controller 500 detects or determines the presence of an arc fault condition, controller 500 is configured to control AFCI 530 to deactivate power supply to the affected devices 140-170. In some embodiments, controller 500 or devices 140-170 may deactivate power distribution in the event of an arc fault (e.g., by opening switches 220, 225).

[0062] Controller 500 is configured to detect arc fault conditions using multiple techniques. In some embodiments, controller 500 uses an arc fault detection technique alone. In other embodiments, controller 500 implements multiple arc fault detection techniques in combination. For example, controller 500 may determine the presence of an arc fault condition based on the data portion of an energy packet and by measuring the amount of error present in one or a series of energy packets (e.g., aggregated error from unreceived data). Specifically, controller 500 is configured to send digital power energy packets (i.e., including an energy payload and a data payload) to devices 140-170. Controller 500 is configured to determine or measure the amount of error associated with the digital power energy packet (e.g., associated with the data payload). In some embodiments, controller 500 is configured to receive the determination or measurement results of the amount of error associated with the digital power energy packet (e.g., from devices 140-170). Controller 500 is then configured to evaluate the amount of single or cumulative error for a given data packet or a series of data packets (e.g., data packets received within a predetermined time period). Packet-specific errors include, for example, data loss in the packet (e.g., assessed based on the frame drop rate), packet attenuation (e.g., the reduction in the amplitude of the transmitted data), and the amount of distortion associated with the data signal (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio).

[0063] When controller 500 determines that a single error or set of errors associated with a data packet or a series of data packets is greater than or equal to an error threshold (e.g., a frame loss rate threshold, an attenuation threshold, a signal-to-noise ratio threshold, etc.), controller 500 determines that an arc fault condition exists. In some embodiments, controller 500 is configured to determine whether other fault conditions associated with system 100 exist, such as incorrect connections, loose connections, excessive cable length, external noise, etc. (e.g., based on the amount of error present). When controller 500 determines that an arc fault condition or other fault condition exists, controller 500 is configured to deactivate power to, for example, one or more of devices 140-170. In some embodiments, when controller 500 determines that an arc fault condition or other fault condition exists, controller 500 is configured to deactivate power connection to receiver 125 or second power distribution controller 135. In some embodiments, controller 500 is configured to transmit data packets and evaluate the transmitted data packets to take protective actions based on the transmitted data packets. For example, the controller 500 can evaluate transmitted data packets to self-identify or self-diagnose arcs or errors in the cabling system, faults in the data packet transmission system, faults in the energy conversion or control system, etc.

[0064] Alternatively, controller 500 may use predetermined data packets or diagnostic signals between the first power distribution controller 130 and devices 140-170 to detect arc fault conditions. For example, similar to the error-based fault detection described above, controller 500 is configured to evaluate the cumulative error of predetermined data or diagnostic signals. Such signal-specific errors include, for example, data loss in data packets (e.g., evaluated based on frame drop rate), the amount of data packet attenuation (e.g., the reduction in signal amplitude), the amount of distortion associated with the signal (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio, etc.), etc. When a single error or set of errors associated with the signal (e.g., based on the percentage correlation between received data packets and predetermined data packets) is greater than or equal to an error threshold (e.g., frame drop rate threshold, attenuation threshold, signal-to-noise ratio threshold, error percentage, etc.), controller 500 determines that an arc fault or other fault condition exists. In some embodiments, evaluating diagnostic signals provides more accurate fault detection because the diagnostic signal being evaluated is a predetermined packet with reference values ​​known to controller 500.

[0065] In some embodiments, arc fault detection is focused on a single device (e.g., network address-based arc fault detection). For example, controller 500 may change one or more thresholds used to detect arc fault conditions. Devices more likely to generate arc fault conditions can be monitored more closely. In some embodiments, arc fault conditions of devices using power exceeding a threshold level (e.g., exceeding 250W) are monitored, while arc fault conditions of devices using the threshold level or less power are not monitored.

[0066] In some embodiments and referenced Figure 2 Controller 500 can typically correspond to source controller 215 and power output module 510 can correspond to switch 220. In such an embodiment, controller 500 is configured to generate digital power using energy transfer and sampling cycles, as described above regarding... Figure 2 In some embodiments, the second power distribution controller 135 is configured to operate in the same or similar manner as the first power distribution controller 130.

[0067] The arc fault protection technology described above for the first power distribution controller 130 is also applicable to the operation of the second power distribution controller 135. In some embodiments, the above-described arc fault protection technology is applied at other locations within the system 100, such as between power supplies 110, 115 and transmitter 105, between transmitter 105 and receiver 125, and between receiver 125 and the first power distribution controller 130.

[0068] Therefore, the embodiments described herein particularly provide arc fault protection in digital power distribution systems. Various features and advantages are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A power distribution system for supplying power to equipment, the system comprising: Arc Fault Circuit Initiator (AFCI); and A controller, connected to the AFCI and operable to control the AFCI to stop supplying power to the device, the controller including a processor and memory, is configured to: The digital power pack is sent to the device via the AFCI. Measure the amount of error associated with the digital power pack. Assess the amount of error associated with the digital power pack. The presence of an arc fault is determined based on an assessment of the error quantity associated with the digital power package, and When the arc fault is detected, the AFCI is controlled to stop supplying power to the device.

2. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The digital power package includes an energy payload and a data payload.

3. The power distribution system according to claim 2, wherein, The error quantity is associated with one of the following: data loss in the data payload; attenuation of the data payload; and distortion associated with the data payload.

4. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The power supplied to the device is between 400W and 600W.

5. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine whether one of the following conditions exists: cross-line fault, in-line fault, ground fault, or neutral line fault.

6. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The amount of error associated with the digital power pack is the set of errors from unreceived data in a series of power packs.

7. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The error associated with the digital power package is the set of errors from data not received within a predetermined time period.

8. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine whether the arc fault condition exists based on a comparison of the error amount with at least one of a frame drop rate threshold, an attenuation threshold, and a signal-to-noise ratio threshold.

9. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The arc fault is caused by at least one of the following: incorrect connection, loose connection, excessive cable length, or external noise.

10. The power distribution system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine whether the arc fault condition exists based on an assessment of the error amount by comparing it with a predetermined data packet.

11. The power distribution system according to claim 10, wherein, The controller is also configured to determine whether the arc fault condition exists based on the percentage correlation between the digital power pack and the predetermined data pack.

12. A power distribution system for supplying power to equipment, the system comprising: A power transmitter configured to receive at least one of AC input power and DC input power, and to generate digital power packets for distribution through the system; A power receiver, which is electrically connected to the power transmitter for receiving digital electrical energy; An arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is connected between the power transmitter and the power receiver. as well as A controller, connected to the AFCI and operable to control the AFCI to stop power supply from the power transmitter to the power receiver, the controller including a processor and memory, is configured to: The digital power pack is sent to the power receiver via the AFCI. Measure the amount of error associated with the digital power pack. Assess the amount of error associated with the digital power pack. The presence of an arc fault is determined based on an assessment of the error quantity associated with the digital power package, and When the arc fault is detected, the AFCI is controlled to stop supplying power to the power receiver.

13. The power distribution system according to claim 12, wherein, The digital power package includes an energy payload and a data payload.

14. The power distribution system according to claim 13, wherein, The error quantity is associated with one of the following: data loss in the data payload; attenuation of the data payload; and distortion associated with the data payload.

15. A method for stopping power supply to equipment in a digital power system, the digital power system including an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI), the method comprising: The digital power pack is sent to the device via AFCI; Measure the amount of error associated with the digital power pack; Assess the amount of error associated with the digital power pack; The presence of an arc fault is determined based on an assessment of the error quantity associated with the digital power package, and When the arc fault is detected, the AFCI is controlled to stop supplying power to the device.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The digital power package includes an energy payload and a data payload.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The error quantity is associated with data loss in the data payload.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The error amount is related to the attenuation of the data payload.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The error amount is associated with the amount of distortion associated with the data payload.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein, The power supplied to the device is between 400W and 600W.

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