Integrated power panel

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an integrated power panel. The system includes one or more busbars coupled to the AC line, branch relays each coupled to the busbars and a respective circuit breaker, and current sensors each corresponding to at least one respective branch relay of the plurality of branch relays. The system also includes an air interface disposed in front of the plurality of branch relays and including openings corresponding to the branch relays, allowing an electrical terminal of each branch relay to protrude forward through a respective opening. A circuit breaker engages with each respective branch relay on a null junction to create an array of branch circuit breakers. The combination of relays and circuit breakers allows each branch circuit to be controllable. The relay may include a current sensor, such as a shunt, for determining branch circuit current and controlling the relay. Control circuitry manages relay switch operation and monitors branch circuit operation.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application for invention titled "Integrated Power Panel" with the filing date of February 12, 2020, application number 202080022002.4.

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 804,457, filed on February 12, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background of the invention

[0004] Typically, a main power panel includes a main meter, a busbar, and a set of circuit breakers corresponding to various circuits. There is no feedback to further determine the energy flow or control the load other than one of the circuit breakers tripping or the total usage determined by the meter. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates to integrated methods for power systems and monitoring / control. For example, in some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to equipment having integrated components configured for in - field repair. In another example, in some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a platform configured to monitor, control, or otherwise manage operational aspects of a power system.

[0006] In some embodiments, the system includes a power panel having embedded power electronics, where the embedded power electronics are configured to enable direct DC coupling of distributed energy resources (DER). In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide DC - DC isolation to a main breaker, which enables, for example, seamless island operation and self - consumption mode. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more current sensing modules (e.g., current transformer (CT) flanges, shunts, relays, printed circuit boards (PCBs)) or any other current interruption device configured to provide metering, control, and / or energy management. In some embodiments, the system includes components designed for busbar mounting or DIN - rail mounting to provide modular and in - field repairable power conversion.

[0007] In some embodiments, the system is configured to implement a platform configured to manage energy information. In some embodiments, the platform is configured to host applications. In some embodiments, the platform is configured to host a computing environment in which developers can create value-added software for existing / emerging applications. In some embodiments, the system includes processing equipment integrated in a main power panel and configured for local energy management (e.g., metering, control, and power conversion). In some embodiments, the processing equipment is configured to communicate with external controllable loads, third-party sensors, any other suitable devices or components, or any combination thereof via a wired (e.g., power line communication (PLC) or other protocol) or wireless communication link. In some embodiments, the processing equipment is configured to support distributed computing requirements (e.g., trading energy, blockchain, virtual currency mining). For example, the computing power of the processing equipment can be used for purposes other than managing energy flow. In another example, excess generated power can be used to support computing requirements. In some embodiments, the platform is open-access and configured to serve as an operating system (OS) layer for third-party applications. For example, third-party applications (e.g., disaggregation, solar monitoring, electric vehicle (EV) charging, load control, demand response (DR), and other functions) can be developed for consumer / enterprise-oriented solutions. By way of illustration, in some embodiments, the system provides third-party applications with access control to hardware and data. For example, this can include mobile phones (e.g., iOS- and Android-based systems) and can include mechanisms by which users selectively authorize applications to access specific data sources (e.g., heart rate data) or controls (e.g., camera access). In some embodiments, the system identifies patterns from mobile devices (e.g., local applications operating within an access control framework) and applies that information to energy management (e.g., control circuits, energy storage, and timing). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In accordance with one or more various embodiments, the present disclosure is described in detail with reference to the following figures. The figures are provided for illustrative purposes only and depict typical or example embodiments. These figures are provided to facilitate understanding of the concepts disclosed herein and should not be considered as limiting the breadth, scope, or applicability of these concepts. It should be noted that these figures are not necessarily drawn to scale for clarity and ease of illustration.

[0009] Figure 1 A system diagram of an illustrative power panel in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0010] Figure 2 A perspective view of an illustrative current sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0011] Figure 3 Illustrates a set of illustrative subsystems that may be included in a power conversion device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 4 Illustrates in Figures 5 - 16 the context of a legend of illustrative symbols used;

[0013] Figure 5 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration that can be achieved for a home without distributed energy (e.g., such as solar, energy storage, or EV) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 6 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including an integrated power conversion unit that allows direct DC coupling of the output of a solar system with a DC MPPT unit or module having a DC string maximum power point tracking (MPPT) unit or module installed;

[0015] Figure 7 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including a solar inverter connected to an AC input through a circuit breaker according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 8 Illustrates an illustrative configuration including an integrated power conversion unit that allows direct DC coupling with a battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 9 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including a bidirectional battery inverter coupled to an AC circuit breaker according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 10 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including an integrated power conversion unit that can interconnect a solar photovoltaic (PV) system and a battery system on a DC bus / link in some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 11 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including an external hybrid inverter connected to an AC circuit breaker in a panel, where both the solar PV and battery systems are operated through the external hybrid inverter according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 12 Illustrates a block diagram of an illustrative configuration including an integrated power conversion unit connected to the DC of a solar PV system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 13A block diagram showing an illustrative configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including an integrated power conversion unit coupled to a DC battery system and an AC circuit breaker in a panel connected to a PV system operating through an external inverter;

[0022] Figure 14 A block diagram showing an illustrative configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including a panel having a DC link and an integrated power conversion unit connected to solar PV, a battery system, and an electric vehicle having on-board DC charging conversion;

[0023] Figure 15 A block diagram showing an illustrative configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including an AC circuit breaker connected to an electric vehicle through an on-board charger;

[0024] Figure 16 A block diagram showing an illustrative configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including an EV DC-DC charger connected to an electric vehicle;

[0025] Figure 17 An illustrative panel layout according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 18 An illustrative panel layout according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 19 An illustrative current sensing board according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 20 An illustrative current sensing board arrangement including processing equipment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 21 An illustrative power distribution and control board according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 22 An illustrative IoT module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 23 A table showing illustrative use cases according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 24 An IoT arrangement according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 25 A flowchart showing an illustrative process that can be executed by a system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 26Shows a bottom view, a side view, and a front view of an illustrative panel in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 27 Shows a perspective view of an illustrative panel in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figures 28A - 28D Shows several views of a current transformer board in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 29 Shows a perspective view of a current transformer board in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 30 Shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panel in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 31 Shows a block diagram of a system including an illustrative power panel having a relay in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 32 Shows a block diagram of a system including an illustrative power panel having a relay and a shunt current sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 33A Shows a front view of an illustrative assembly including a backplane with branch relays and a control board mounted thereon, Figure 33B Shows a side view of the assembly, and Figure 33C Shows a bottom view of the assembly;

[0042] Figure 34 Shows in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure Figures 33A - 33C a perspective view and an exploded view of an illustrative assembly, with some components labeled;

[0043] Figure 35A Shows a front view of an illustrative assembly including a backplane with branch relays and a control board mounted thereon, a deadfront mounted thereon, and a circuit breaker mounted thereon, Figure 35B Shows a side view of the assembly, Figure 35C Shows a bottom view of the assembly, and Figure 35D Shows a perspective view of the assembly;

[0044] Figure 36A Shows a front view of an illustrative assembly including a backplane with branch relays and a control board mounted thereon, a deadfront mounted thereon, and a circuit breaker mounted thereon, Figure 36B Shows a side view of the assembly, Figure 36CShows a bottom view of the component, and Figure 36D shows a perspective view of the component, in which the branch relay control line is illustrated;

[0045] Figure 37A shows an Figures 36A - 36D exploded perspective view of an illustrative component according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 37B shows Figures 36A - 36D an exploded side view of an illustrative component, in which some components are labeled;

[0046] Figure 38A shows a front view of an illustrative component including a relay enclosure with a main relay, a main circuit breaker, and a bus installed according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 38B shows a side view of the component, Figure 38C shows a bottom view of the component, Figure 38D shows a perspective view of the component, Figure 38E shows a perspective exploded view of the component, and Figure 38F shows a side exploded view of the component;

[0047] Figure 39 shows a perspective view of an illustrative branch relay according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 40 shows a perspective view of an illustrative branch relay and circuit breaker according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 41 shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panel having a branch circuit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0050] Figure 42 shows a perspective view of an illustrative mounting panel having a branch circuit, a main circuit breaker, and an autotransformer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0051] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a system that is capable of monitoring and managing energy flow (e.g., from multiple energy sources, both AC and DC), serving multiple loads (e.g., both AC and DC), communicating energy information, or any combination thereof. The system can include, for example, any or all of the components, subsystems, and functions described below. For example, the system can include a microgrid interconnection device.

[0052] In some embodiments, the system includes (1) controllable relays and a main service circuit breaker that are arranged between an AC utility power supply and all other generators, loads, and storage devices in a building or a home.

[0053] In some embodiments, the system includes (2) an array of independently controllable electromechanical relays and / or load breakers (e.g., suitable for both panel-mounted systems and DIN rail-mounted systems) connected to the main service breaker via a power bus.

[0054] In some embodiments, the system includes (3) an array of current sensors, e.g., solid-core or split-core current transformers (CTs), current measurement shunts, Rogowski coils, or any other suitable sensors integrated into the system to provide current measurement, provide power measurement, and / or meter the energy input and output from each load service breaker. In some embodiments, e.g., the relay is integrated with an attached shunt, and the relay / shunt is attached to the bus.

[0055] In some embodiments, the system includes (4) a bidirectional power conversion device that can convert between AC-form and DC-form energy:

[0056] (a) having the ability to take multiple DC sub-components as inputs (e.g., having the same or different DC voltages);

[0057] (b) being designed to be directly mounted or connected to a bus (e.g., an AC interface) or a DIN rail (e.g., having AC terminals); and

[0058] (c) having different size options (e.g., kVA rating, current rating, or voltage rating).

[0059] In some embodiments, the system includes (5) processing equipment / control circuitry, e.g., an on-board gateway computer, a printed circuit board, a logic board, or any other suitable device configured to communicate with and optionally control any suitable sub-components of the system. The control circuitry can be configured to:

[0060] (a) manage the energy flow between the power grid and the building / home;

[0061] (b) manage the energy flow between the various generators, loads, and storage devices (sub-components) connected to the system;

[0062] (c) be able to isolate the system from the power grid by closing a controllable main relay (e.g., a dipole relay) without affecting the safety and functionality of the main service breaker (e.g., energy and storage meet the energy load);

[0063] (d) be able to electronically control each circuit (e.g., branch circuit) individually or in groups, and be able to control terminal devices (e.g., electrical appliances) by means of wired or wireless communication. These groups can respond to external system states as needed or predefined (e.g., based on grid health status, battery energy status);

[0064] (e) perform local computing tasks, including making economic decisions to optimize energy usage (e.g., time of use, usage pattern);

[0065] (f) allow external computing tasks to run on-board as part of a distributed computing resource network (e.g., circuit-level load forecasting, weather-based forecasting) to enhance the behavior of local tasks;

[0066] (g) allow monitoring and control via a mobile application that can be directly connected to the panel via WiFi or connected to the panel from anywhere in the world via a cloud connection. This allows normal operation of the homeowner application without a cloud (e.g., during natural disasters);

[0067] (h) allow installers to perform setup and configuration via a single mobile application, which simplifies the entire solar and storage installation process by directly connecting to the panel via WiFi or via a cloud connection via a cellular network; and

[0068] (i) allow installers to provide breaker naming suggestions via a mobile application to standardize the names, thereby allowing load prediction immediately from the installation moment and improving the homeowner experience. For example, the application can be hosted via the cloud or accessed by directly connecting to the panel.

[0069] In some embodiments, the system includes (6) communication equipment, e.g., an on-board communication board having cellular (e.g., 4G, 5G, LTE), Zigbee, Bluetooth, Thread, Z-Wave, WiFi radio capabilities, any other wireless communication capabilities, or any combination thereof:

[0070] (a) have the ability to simultaneously act as a repeater (e.g., access point), receiver, and / or signal repeater;

[0071] (b) have the ability to make a wired or wireless interface connection with Internet / cable / data service provider network equipment. For example, the equipment can include coaxial cables, optical fibers, Ethernet cables, any other suitable equipment configured for wired and / or wireless communication, or any combination thereof;

[0072] (c) capable of updating the software and / or firmware of the system by receiving updates wirelessly. For example, receiving updates by downloading updates of applications and operating systems via a network connection, or by the application receiving updates from the user's phone, or any combination thereof; or

[0073] (d) capable of relaying software and / or firmware updates to remote components of a system that are located elsewhere, inside or outside the main system housing.

[0074] Any or all of the components listed above can be designed to be field-replaceable or interchangeable for repair, upgrade, or both. The system includes energy processing equipment and data input / output (IO) equipment.

[0075] In some embodiments, the system is configured for single-phase AC operation, split-phase AC operation, three-phase AC operation, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system includes an autotransformer or similar magnet or power electronics device that forms a neutral point to support microgrid operation when a single-phase inverter is installed.

[0076] In some embodiments, the system includes a hardware safety circuit that prevents disconnection, failure, or overload of an autotransformer or equivalent component that forms a neutral point by detecting and automatically disconnecting the power supply to prevent the risk of electrical damage or fire caused by unbalanced voltages between phases.

[0077] In some embodiments, the components of the system are configured for busbar mounting, DIN rail mounting, or both, for integration into a distribution board. In some embodiments, the system is designed to be mechanically compatible with off-the-shelf circuit breakers. In some cases, off-the-shelf controllable circuit breakers can be included in the panel and managed by the control circuitry of the system.

[0078] Consumers, designated service providers, or other suitable entities can monitor and control one or more circuit breakers, relays, devices, or other components using an application or remote control (e.g., from a network-connected mobile device, server, or other processing equipment).

[0079] In some embodiments, the system is installed to include (e.g., complementary) hardware that provides control, metering, or both for one or more downstream sub-panels, communicating using wireless or powerline communication.

[0080] In some embodiments, the thermal system design allows heat dissipation from power electronics devices or magnets such as transformers that form a neutral point. This can be accomplished by active cooling or passive convection.

[0081] In some embodiments, the system includes various modular power conversion system sizes configured to replace circuit breakers, relays, or both (e.g., when more are needed, or when greater capacity is needed).

[0082] In some embodiments, a controllable relay is configured to receive a signal (e.g., a control signal) of relatively low voltage (e.g., less than the grid or load voltage) from an on-board computer.

[0083] In some embodiments, the main service circuit breaker is also metered (e.g., by measuring current, voltage, or both). For example, metering can be performed at any suitable resolution (e.g., at the main, at the breaker, at several breakers, at the DC bus, or any combination thereof). Metering can be performed at any suitable frequency, any suitable bandwidth, and with an accuracy considered to be a "revenue grade" (e.g., to provide an ANSI metering accuracy of 0.5% or better).

[0084] In some embodiments, the system is configured to determine and analyze high-resolution meter data for the purpose of islanding. For example, islanding can be performed by an entity (e.g., an on-board computer or remote computing equipment to which energy information is transmitted via a network).

[0085] In some embodiments, main utility service inputs can be provided directly or through meters provided by a utility entity.

[0086] In some embodiments, the control of the system is divided among microprocessors such that safety and real-time functional characteristics are handled by a real-time microprocessor, and higher-level data analysis, networking, logical interaction, any other suitable functions, or combinations thereof are performed in a general-purpose operating system.

[0087] Figure 1Illustrative system 100 for managing and monitoring an electrical load in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. System 100 may be configured for single-phase AC operation, split-phase AC operation, three-phase AC operation, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the components of system 100 are configured for bus mounting, DIN rail mounting, or both, for integration in a distribution board. In some cases, non-controllable circuit breakers are included in panel 102. In some embodiments, a consumer, a designated service provider, any other suitable entity, or any combination thereof may monitor and control one or more circuit breakers, devices, or other components using an application or remotely (e.g., from a networked mobile device, server, or other processing equipment). In some embodiments, system 100 is thermally designed to allow heat dissipation (e.g., due to ohmic heating). In some embodiments, system 100 includes one or more modular power conversion system sizes that are configured to replace circuit breakers (e.g., when more are needed, or when a larger capacity is needed). In some embodiments, controllable devices 114 (e.g., circuit breakers, relays, or both) are configured to receive control signals at a relatively low voltage (e.g., less than the grid voltage or the load voltage) from an on-board computer 118 (e.g., processing equipment / control circuitry). For example, on-board computer 118 may include a wireless gateway, a wired communication interface, a display, a user interface, a memory, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the main service circuit breaker 112 is metered (e.g., current, voltage, or both are measured). For example, metering may be performed at any suitable resolution (e.g., at the main power supply, at the circuit breaker, at several circuit breakers, at the DC bus, or any combination thereof). In some embodiments, system 100 is configured to determine high-resolution meter data for the purpose of islanding. For example, islanding may be performed by an entity (e.g., the on-board computer or remote computing equipment to which energy information is transmitted via a network). In some embodiments, the main service entity input 110 is provided directly or via a common entity by a meter.

[0088] An AC-DC-AC bidirectional inverter may be included as part of the Figure 1 system, but is not required. As shown, system 100 includes power electronics 120 for electrically coupling a DC source. For example, power electronics 120 may have a rating of 10 kVa or any other suitable rating. The DC input 116 may be coupled to any suitable DC device.

[0089] In some embodiments, system 100 includes one or more sensors configured to sense current. For example, as shown, system 100 includes current sensors 152 and 162 (e.g., current transformer flanges or current shunts integrated into the busbars) for metering functions integrated into the panel, circuit breaker functions, load control functions, any other suitable functions, or any combination thereof. Current sensors 152 and 162 each include a current sensor (e.g., current transformer, shunt, Rogowski coil) configured to sense current in a respective branch circuit 156 (e.g., controlled by a respective circuit breaker 154 or relay of the controllable circuit device 114, as shown in the enlarged view 150). In some embodiments, system 100 includes voltage sensing equipment (e.g., voltage sensors) coupled to the control circuitry and configured to sense one or more AC voltages (e.g., the voltage between the line and neutral).

[0090] In some embodiments, panel 102 includes an indicator 122 configured to provide a visual indication, an audio indication, or both, indicating the state of the corresponding circuit breaker of the controllable circuit device 114. For example, indicator 122 may include one or more LEDs or other suitable lights of one or more colors, which may indicate whether the controllable circuit breaker is open, closed, or tripped; within what range the current or power is; a fault condition; any other suitable information; or any combination thereof. By way of illustration, each indicator of indicator 122 may indicate green (e.g., circuit breaker closed, current can flow) or red (e.g., circuit breaker open or tripped).

[0091] In some embodiments, the system includes, for example, one or more low-voltage connectors configured to interface with one or more other components inside or outside the power panel, including, for example, controllable circuit breakers, communication antennas, digital / analog controllers, any other suitable equipment, or any combination thereof.

[0092] In some embodiments, system 100 includes components such as one or more printed circuit boards configured to function as current sensors, voltage sensors, power sensors, actuator subsystems, control circuitry, or combinations thereof, as well as communication paths therebetween. In some embodiments, the current sensors provide an accuracy sufficient for use in energy metering (e.g., configured to provide ANSI metering accuracy within a range of 0.5% or better). In some embodiments, current sensors 152 and 162 (e.g., current sensing components) may be removable, field replaceable, or otherwise removable. In some embodiments, one or more cables may couple the PCBs of the current sensors to the processing equipment. In some embodiments, the sum of the power of each individual circuit (e.g., branch circuit) corresponds to the total meter reading (e.g., equivalent to a "smart" meter for an entire home).

[0093] In some embodiments, system 100 includes an embedded power conversion device (e.g., power electronics 120). The power conversion device (e.g., power conversion device 120) may be arranged in a dedicated distribution board to enable DC coupling of loads and generation (e.g., including direct or indirect coupling if the voltage levels are different). For example, the DC input 116 may be configured to be electrically coupled to one or more DC loads, generators, or both. In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 includes one or more circuit breakers that snap onto one or more buses of the power panel 102. For example, the AC terminals of the power conversion system 120 may directly contact the busbars. In another example, the power conversion device 120 may be further mechanically supported by anchoring to the backplane of the power panel 102 (e.g., especially for larger or modular power stages). In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 includes a bi-directional power electronics stack configured to convert between AC and DC (e.g., transfer power in either direction). In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 includes a shared DC bus (e.g., DC input 116) configured to support a range of DC devices operating within a predefined voltage range or corresponding voltage ranges. In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 is configured to enable fault protection. For example, system 100 may use galvanic isolation to prevent fault propagation. In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 is configured to allow digital control signals to be provided to it in real time from a control circuitry (e.g., within the power panel 102, from the on-board computer 118).

[0094] In some embodiments, the power conversion device 120 is configured to disconnect the main service breaker and the common entity disconnect switch for power supply from a common entity. For example, the power conversion device may be arranged at the interface between a common entity service and a site (e.g., a home or building). For example, the power conversion device 120 may be arranged within the power panel 102 (e.g., in place of or in addition to the main service breaker 112).

[0095] Figure 2 A perspective view of an illustrative current sensor 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For example, the current sensor 200 may be mounted to the backplane of a power panel in a dedicated enclosure (e.g., as Figure 1a portion of the panel 102), mounted on a DIN rail, or includes any other suitable mounting configuration. In some embodiments, the component includes, for example, one or more solid-core current transformers 206 configured to provide high-accuracy metering of each load line fed into the power panel and connected to a circuit breaker (e.g., one sensor per circuit breaker in some embodiments). In some embodiments, the component includes, for example, a current measurement shunt attached to or integrated directly with one or more busbars. The signal leads 204 are configured to send sensor information (e.g., measurement signals), receive power for the sensor, and send communication signals (e.g., when the current sensor 200 includes an analog-to-digital converter and any other suitable corresponding circuitry). In some embodiments, the current sensor 200 is configured to sense current and send an analog signal to the control circuitry via the signal leads 204. In some embodiments, the current sensor 200 is configured to sense current and send a digital signal to the control circuitry via the signal leads 204. For example, the signal leads 204 may be bundled into one or more low-voltage data cables for providing circuit breaker control. In some embodiments, the current sensor 200 is configured to sense one or more voltages as well as current and may be configured to calculate, for example, power measurements associated with a branch circuit or other load.

[0096] Figure 3 Illustrative assemblies of subsystems 300 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, and the subsystem 300 may include power conversion devices (e.g., Figure 1Power conversion device 120). In some embodiments, the power conversion device is configured to provide galvanic isolation between the power grid (e.g., AC power grid 302, as shown) and the power system by converting AC to DC at the main power panel (e.g., using AC-DC converter 304). In some embodiments, the power conversion device is configured to step up from a nominal DC voltage to a shared DC bus voltage (e.g., compatible with interoperable DC loads and power generation). For example, a DC-DC converter 306 may be included to provide isolation, step up or step down the voltage, or a combination thereof. In another example, the power conversion device may include a DC-DC isolation component (e.g., DC-DC converter 306). In some embodiments, the power conversion device is configured to convert power from the DC bus voltage to a nominal AC voltage for connection to conventional AC loads and power generation. For example, a DC-AC converter 308 may be included to couple to AC loads and power generation. In some embodiments, the power conversion device is configured to support a microgrid (e.g., self-consumption) function, thus providing a seamless or nearly seamless transition from grid power and to grid power. In some embodiments, the self-consumption architecture is beneficial in terms of conversion losses associated with secondary conversion (e.g., no need to convert to grid AC during self-consumption). In some embodiments, the device is configured to support AC and DC voltages used in a home / building. For example, the power conversion device may be configured to support typical AC appliance voltages and DC device voltages. In some embodiments, the power conversion device may be used to support microgrids, real-time island operation, or other suitable use cases.

[0097] Figure 4 Shows an illustrative symbol legend 400 used in the context of Figures 5 - 16 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] Figure 5 Shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration 500 that can be implemented for a home in the absence of distributed energy (e.g., such as solar, energy storage, or EV) in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As Figure 5As shown, the system includes an integrated gateway 503, a controllable (e.g., islanded operation) mainline service device 501 with a transmission device 502, and various circuit devices 504 that are both metered and controllable (switched). In some embodiments, the bus design can accommodate controllable and uncontrollable (e.g., traditional) circuit devices (e.g., circuit breakers, relays, or both). In some embodiments, the branch meters 505 are configured to be modular, allowing circuits to be grouped with one device (e.g., 2 - 4 circuits or more). In some embodiments, the integrated gateway 503 is configured to perform several local energy management functions, including, for example: sensing the voltage of the power grid; controlling the islanded operation mainline service circuit breaker 501; controlling the circuit breakers in the circuit breakers 504 individually and in groups, measuring power and energy from each branch in real time, calculating the total power at the panel level; and communicating wirelessly with external devices and any suitable cloud-hosted platform (e.g., using cellular, Wifi, Bluetooth, or other standards). The system can be configured to monitor and control various electrical loads 506. A field-installable power conversion unit (e.g., bidirectional inverter) can be included in such a configuration. In some embodiments, the controllable mainline service device 501 with a transmission device 502 is configured to safely disconnect from the power grid, connect to the power grid 599, or both.

[0099] Figure 6 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 600 including an integrated power conversion device 510 is shown, which allows for direct DC coupling of the output of a solar system 512 having a DC MPPT unit (e.g., unit 511) with a DC string maximum power point tracking (MPPT) unit or module installed. In some embodiments, the DC input voltage range of the power conversion device 510 can accommodate various DC inputs, allowing for easy integration of solar modules into a home. In some embodiments, the power conversion device 510 is configured to function as an isolation or disconnect device from the power grid or electrical load. In some embodiments, the output level of the solar system 512 can be controlled by modulating the DC link voltage of the power conversion device 510.

[0100] Figure 7A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 700 is shown that includes an external power conversion device 513 (e.g., a solar inverter) that is connected as an AC input via a circuit breaker (e.g., circuit breaker 504) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the external power conversion device 513 may be a string MPPT or an MPPT with solar modules installed or a micro-inverter. In some embodiments, the size of the circuit breaker for coupling the solar system 514 to the bus of the panel may be adjusted to accommodate an appropriate system capacity. The output level of the solar system 514 may be controlled using direct communication with the solar system 514 or using voltage-based or frequency-based control (e.g., from gateway 503). For example, a frequency drop may be described as modulation of the instantaneous voltage V(t) rather than the root mean square voltage (V_RMS).

[0101] Figure 8 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 800 is shown that includes a power conversion device 515 (e.g., a DC-DC converter, as shown) that allows for direct DC coupling with a battery system 516 (i.e., an energy storage device). The output of the battery system 516 may vary within the allowable range of the DC link 517 (e.g., a DC bus). In some embodiments, the output level of the battery system 516 may be controlled from an integrated power conversion unit (e.g., an AC-DC converter) that modulates the DC link voltage.

[0102] Figure 9 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 900 is shown that includes a bidirectional battery inverter 518 that is coupled to an AC circuit breaker (of circuit breaker 504) via an AC link 520 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the charge / discharge level of the battery system 519 may be controlled using direct communication with the battery inverter 518 or via voltage-based or frequency-based control.

[0103] Figure 10 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1000 is shown that includes an integrated power conversion device 510 that can interconnect a solar photovoltaic (PV) system (e.g., solar system 525) that uses maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and a battery system (e.g., battery system 523) via a DC link 521. In some embodiments, the integrated power conversion device 510 effectively serves as a hybrid inverter embedded within the panel. In terms of direct DC charging of the battery by PV power generation, Figure 10 the illustrative configuration 1000 can provide significant advantages. In some embodiments, Figure 10The illustrative configuration allows minimizing or otherwise reducing the number of redundant components across power conversion, metering, and gateway / control. In some embodiments, voltage-based control on the DC bus can be used to modify PV and battery input / output levels. The DC / DC converters can be provided by the PV or battery vendor, but can also be provided as part of the system (e.g., integrated into the system). In some embodiments, as shown, the battery system 523 is coupled to the DC-DC converter 522, and the solar system 525 is coupled to the DC-DC converter 524, such that both are coupled to the DC link 521, although operating at potentially different voltages.

[0104] Figure 11 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1100 is shown that includes an external hybrid inverter 527 coupled to one or more controllable circuit breakers 504 in the panel via an AC link 526, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, where both the solar system 529 and the battery system 528 operate through the external hybrid inverter 527. In some embodiments, PV output and battery charge / discharge levels can be controlled using direct communication with the hybrid inverter 527 or through voltage-based control (e.g., using the gateway 503). In some embodiments, the system is configured to accommodate the installation of an autotransformer. For example, when the system includes a set of 120V / 240V split-phase loads, the autotransformer can support a 240V hybrid inverter. In some embodiments, the system is configured with hardware and / or software devices designed to protect the load from autotransformer faults, and / or protect the autotransformer from overloading. In some embodiments, the system is configured with hardware and / or software devices designed to disconnect the inverter from the system in the event of a fault to protect the autotransformer and / or protect the load. In some embodiments, the autotransformer can be controlled by, for example, a controllable circuit breaker or a control relay. In some embodiments, the hardware and / or software designed for system protection can use a controllable circuit breaker or a control relay to disconnect the autotransformer and / or the inverter from the system.

[0105] Figure 12 A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1200 is shown that includes an integrated power conversion device 510 coupled to a solar PV system 532 via a DC link 530 and a DC-DC converter 531, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The system also includes one or more controllable circuit breakers 504 in the panel coupled to an external bidirectional inverter 534 via an AC link 533, where the external bidirectional inverter 534 is connected to a battery system 535. Figure 12The illustrative configuration 1200 can be configured to support various battery designs deployed with the built-in bi-directional inverter 534. In some embodiments, this configuration allows for relatively easy increase in battery capacity on a direct DC bus (e.g., coupled to the bi-directional inverter 534).

[0106] Figure 13 FIG. shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including an integrated power conversion device 510 coupled to a battery system 538 via a DC-DC converter 537 and one or more controllable circuit breakers 504 in the panel coupled to a solar PV system 541 operated by an external inverter 540 via an AC link 539. In some embodiments, Figure 13 the illustrative configuration 1300 is configured to support installation in locations where solar energy has already been deployed. For example, it can allow for relatively easy increase in battery and PV capacity on a direct DC bus (e.g., DC link 536).

[0107] Figure 14 FIG. shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including a panel with an integrated power conversion device 510 having a DC link 542 and connected to a solar PV system 547 via a DC-DC converter 546, a battery system 545 coupled via a DC-DC converter 544, and an electric vehicle having an on-board DC charging conversion system 543. In some embodiments, each system coupled to the DC link 542 can be individually monitored and controlled, for example, using direct communication or voltage-based control (e.g., from the gateway 503).

[0108] Figure 15 FIG. shows a block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1500 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, including one or more controllable circuit breakers 504 coupled to an electric vehicle 550 having an on-board charger 551 and an on-board battery system 552 via an AC link 549. In some embodiments, the system can be configured to control the charging / discharging of the battery system 552 of the electric vehicle 550 (e.g., depending on whether the on-board charger 551 is bi-directional).

[0109] Figure 16A block diagram of an illustrative configuration 1600 is shown that includes a power conversion device 510 coupled to an EV DC-DC charger 554 via a DC link 553, which charger 554 is in turn coupled to an electric vehicle 560 via a DC link 555. For example, this can allow bypassing any on-board charger (e.g., on-board charger 561) and enable faster and more efficient charging of the battery system 562 of the electric vehicle 560. In some embodiments, for example, the charging / discharging level of the battery system 562 can be controlled using direct communication with the battery system 562 or voltage-based control through the DC-DC charger 554. In some embodiments, the system includes an integrated DC-DC charger (e.g., integrated into the power conversion device 510) configured to charge the electric vehicle directly (e.g., without an intermediate device).

[0110] Figure 17 An illustrative panel layout 1700 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the panel includes a main breaker relay 1702 (e.g., for grid connection), a gateway board 1704 (e.g., including processing equipment, communication equipment, memory, and input / output interfaces), two current transformer modules 1706 and 1708 (e.g., PCBs including solid current sensors), and a power conversion device 1710 (e.g., an AC-DC converter).

[0111] Figure 18 An illustrative panel layout 1800 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the panel includes a main breaker relay 1802 (e.g., for grid connection), processing equipment 1804 (e.g., an IoT module 1814, a microcontroller unit 1824 (MCU), and an input / output (I / O) interface 1834), two current transformer modules 1806 and 1808 (e.g., PCBs including solid-core current sensors), and a power conversion device 1810 (e.g., an AC-DC converter). In the illustrative example, Figure 18 the main breaker relay 1802 and the power conversion device 1810 can be controlled using the processing equipment 1804 (e.g., having a wired or wireless communication coupling).

[0112] Figure 19 An illustrative current sensing board 1900 (e.g., having a current transformer) is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, as shown, the current sensing board 1900 includes connectors 1902, 1904, and 1906 for power and signal I / O, a port 1910 for coupling to a controller, an LED 1908 or other indicator for indicating status, any other suitable components (not shown), or any combination thereof. For example, the current sensing board 1900 can be included in any of the illustrative panels or systems described herein.

[0113] Figure 20 Illustrates an exemplary current sensing board arrangement 2000 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, where the current sensing board 2001 includes processing equipment. For example, as shown, the current sensing board 2001 is configured to receive signals from six current transformers at terminal 2002. In some embodiments, as shown, the current sensing board 2001 includes general-purpose input / output (GPIO) terminals 2008 and 2012, which are configured to send, receive, or both send and receive signals from one or more other devices (e.g., a rotary breaker driver, an LED driver, and / or other suitable devices). In some embodiments, as shown, the current sensing board 2001 includes serial peripheral interface (SPI) terminals 2004, universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter terminals 2010, system activity report (SAR) terminals 2006, any other suitable terminals, or any combination thereof.

[0114] Figure 21 Illustrates an exemplary arrangement (e.g., for power distribution and control) including a board 2100 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the exemplary board 2100 includes GPIO terminals 2102, 2104, and 2106 (e.g., coupled to a main line AC breaker relay 2150, a main line AC breaker control module 2151, an LED driver 2152, and an IoT module 2153), serial interconnect integrated circuit (I2C) communication terminals 2108 (e.g., for I2C protocol communication with a temperature sensor 2154 and an authentication module 2155), universal serial bus (USB) communication terminals 2110 (e.g., for communication with the IoT module 2153), a real-time clock (RTC) 2112 coupled to a clock 2156 (e.g., a 32 kHz clock), several serial peripheral interface (SPI) communication terminals 2114 (e.g., for communication with a current sensor board 2157, any other suitable sensor, or any other suitable device), and a quad SPI (QSPI) communication terminal 2116 (e.g., for communication with a memory device 2158). As shown, the board 2100 is configured to manage / monitor the main line AC relay 2150 and the accompanying circuitry that may be coupled to AC-DC converters 2160, 2161, and 2162, an AC bus 2170, or any other suitable device / component of the system.

[0115] Figure 22Illustrative IoT module 2200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Illustrative IoT module 2200 includes a power interface 2202 (e.g., to receive power from a power source 2203), a memory interface 2204 (e.g., to store and retrieve information / data from a memory 2205), communication interfaces 2216 and 2208 (e.g., to communicate with a WiFi module 2217 or an LTE module 2209), a USB interface 2206 (e.g., to communicate with a control MCU 2207), a GPIO interface 2208 (e.g., to communicate with a control MCU 2207), and a QSPI interface 2210 (e.g., to communicate with a memory device 2211 or other devices).

[0116] Figure 23 Table 2300 showing illustrative use cases according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For example, Table 2300 includes self-generation examples (e.g., with self-consumption, import / export), island operation examples (e.g., with and without solar, battery, and EV), and net export examples (e.g., including solar, battery, and EV, net export). In some embodiments, the panels and systems described herein can be configured to implement the illustrative use cases of Table 2300.

[0117] In some embodiments, the system is configured to implement a platform configured to communicate with an HMI device (e.g., Echo TM , Home TM , etc.). In some embodiments, the system can be configured to act as a gateway to control smart appliances enabled with a compatible wired / wireless receiver. For example, a user can provide a command to the HMI device or application, and then the HMI device or application will send a direct control signal (e.g., a digital status signal) to a washing machine / dryer (e.g., via PLC, WiFi, or Bluetooth).

[0118] In some embodiments, the platform is configured to act as an OS layer, connecting to both internal and external sensors and actuators. For example, the platform may allow third-party application developers to build features on the platform or include features in the platform. In a further example, the platform may provide high-resolution feeder-level metering data for which a distribution service provider may build applications on the platform. In a further example, the platform may be configured to control individual circuit breakers and, accordingly, a demand response provider may build an application on the platform that enables consumers to select usage programs (e.g., energy usage programs). In a further example, the platform may provide metering information to solar installers who may provide applications that display energy generation and consumption to consumers. The platform may receive, retrieve, store, generate, or otherwise manage any suitable data or information related to the system. For example, in some embodiments, the platform may include a software development kit (SDK) that may include application programming interfaces (APIs), as well as other aspects that developers may use to generate applications. For example, the platform may provide libraries, functions, objects, classes, communication protocols, any other suitable tools, or any combination thereof.

[0119] In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein are configured to act as a gateway and platform for a growing number of connected devices (e.g., appliances) in a home or business. In some embodiments, instead of only supporting a few “smart” appliances in a home (e.g., sometimes utilizing redundant gateways, cloud-based platforms, and applications), the systems disclosed herein may interface with many such devices. For example, each electrical device in a home may interface with the power panel of the present disclosure via an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that is purpose-built and installed with or within the appliance. The ASIC may be configured for communication and control from the panel of the present disclosure.

[0120] In some embodiments, the system provides an open access platform for any appliance to become a system-connected device. For example, the panel may be configured to act as a monitoring and control hub. By including integration with emerging human-machine interface (HMI) solutions and communication paths, the system is configured to participate in the growing IoT ecosystem.

[0121] Figure 24 An illustrative IoT arrangement 2400 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The systems disclosed herein may be installed in many locations (e.g., by Figure 24as indicated by the house 2401 therein), each location includes a corresponding main panel, a solar panel system 2402, a battery system 2404, a set of electrical appliances 2406 (e.g., smart appliances or other appliances), other loads 2408 (e.g., lighting, sockets, user equipment), an electric vehicle charging station 2410, one or more HMI devices 2412, any other suitable devices, or any combination thereof. The systems can communicate with each other, with a central processing server (e.g., platform 2450), with any other suitable network entity, or any combination thereof. For example, network entities that provide energy services, third-party IoT integration, and edge computing can communicate with one or more systems or otherwise use data from one or more systems.

[0122] In some embodiments, the system can be configured to communicate with low-cost integrated circuits, ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits), PCBs with ASICs mounted on the board, or combinations thereof that can be adopted by appliance manufacturers, are open-source or reference-design-based, and are easy to implement for communication and control with the systems disclosed herein. For example, a system (e.g., a smart panel) can be configured to send / receive messages to / from any device including an IoT module and control the state of an electrical appliance. In an illustrative example, an oven can become a smart appliance (e.g., a system-connected device) by embedding an IoT module. Accordingly, when a consumer using a smart panel inputs a command (e.g., using an application hosted by the system) to set the oven to 350 degrees, the system can communicate with the module-enabled oven and send the command. In a further example, the system can be configured to communicate with low-cost DC / DC devices, ASICs, or both, which can be embedded into solar modules, battery systems, or EVs (e.g., by a manufacturer or after-sales personnel) that allow control of such devices (e.g., through DC bus voltage modulation / droop curve control).

[0123] Figure 25 A flowchart of an illustrative process 2500 that can be performed by the system is shown. For example, process 2500 can be performed by any suitable processing equipment / control circuitry described herein.

[0124] In some embodiments, at step 2502, the system is configured to measure one or more currents associated with the power infrastructure or equipment. For example, the system can include one or more current sensor boards configured to measure current.

[0125] In some embodiments, at step 2504, the system is configured to receive user input (e.g., from a user device or directly to a user input interface). For example, the system may include a communication interface and may receive network-based communications from the user's mobile device. In a further example, the system may include a touchscreen and may receive tactile input from the user.

[0126] In some embodiments, at step 2506. The system is configured to receive system information. For example, the system may receive usage metrics (e.g., peak power target or desired usage schedule). In a further example, the system may receive system updates, drivers, or other software. In a further example, the system may receive information about one or more devices (e.g., usage information, current or voltage thresholds, supported communication protocols). In some embodiments, the system is configured to update the firmware on connected or otherwise communicatively coupled devices (e.g., inverters, batteries, downstream appliances, or other suitable devices).

[0127] In some embodiments, at step 2508, the system is configured to receive input from one or more devices. For example, the system may include an I / O interface and is configured to receive power line communication (PLC) from one or more devices. For example, an appliance may include one or more digital electrical terminals that are configured to provide an electrical signal to the system to send status information, usage information, or provide commands. The devices may include a solar system, an EV charging system, a battery system, an appliance, a user device, any other suitable device, or any combination thereof.

[0128] In some embodiments, at step 2510, the system is configured to process the information and data that it has received, collected, or otherwise stored in a memory device. For example, the system may be configured to determine energy metrics such as peak power consumption / generation, peak current, total power consumption / generation, frequency of use / idle, duration of use / idle, any other suitable metric, or any combination thereof. In a further example, the system may be configured to determine an energy usage schedule, shed energy loads, determine a desired energy usage schedule, perform any other suitable function, or any combination thereof. In a further example, the system may be configured to compare usage information (e.g., current) with reference information (e.g., peak desired current) to determine an action (e.g., trip a circuit breaker).

[0129] In some embodiments, at step 2512, the system is configured to store energy usage information in a memory device. For example, the system may store and track energy usage over time. In a further example, the system may store information related to fault events (e.g., tripping a circuit breaker or a trunk relay).

[0130] In some embodiments, at step 2514, the system is configured to send energy usage information to one or more network entities, user devices, or other entities. For example, the system may send usage information to a central database. In a further example, the system may send the energy usage information to an energy service provider.

[0131] In some embodiments, at step 2516, the system is configured to control one or more controllable circuit breakers, relays, or combinations thereof. For example, the circuit breakers, relays, or both may be coupled to one or more buses and may include terminals to trip and reset the circuit breakers coupled to the processing equipment. Thus, the processing equipment may be configured to open or close the circuit breakers, relays, or both according to a desired usage scenario (e.g., usage schedule of a particular circuit), safety status (e.g., overcurrent, near overcurrent, or load profile inconsistency), or any other suitable schedule.

[0132] In some embodiments, at step 2518, the system is configured to control one or more controllable main circuit breakers. For example, the main circuit breaker may be coupled to an AC power grid or a meter and may include terminals for tripping and resetting the circuit breakers coupled to the processing equipment. The processing equipment may open or close the circuit breaker based on safety information, user input, or other information.

[0133] In some embodiments, at step 2520, the system is configured to schedule energy usage. For example, the system may determine a desired energy usage schedule based on actual usage data and other suitable information. In a further example, the system may use controllable circuit breakers, IoT connections, and PoL connections to schedule usage.

[0134] In some embodiments, at step 2522, the system is configured to perform a system check. For example, the system may be configured to test circuit breakers, check current sensors, check communication lines (e.g., using a lifeline or ping signal), or perform any other function indicating the status of the system.

[0135] In some embodiments, at step 2524, the system is configured to provide an output to one or more devices. For example, the system may be configured to provide an output to an electrical appliance (e.g., via PLC, WiFi, or Bluetooth), a DC-DC converter or a DC-AC inverter (e.g., via serial communication, Ethernet communication, WiFi, Bluetooth), a user device (e.g., the user's mobile smartphone), an electric vehicle charger or its control system, a solar panel array or its control system, a battery system or its control system.

[0136] In an illustrative example of process 2500, the system can manage an electrical load by sensing current, determining operating parameters, and controlling one or more circuit breakers. The system (e.g., its control circuitry, using one or more of its current sensing modules) can sense multiple currents. Each of the multiple currents can correspond to a respective controllable circuit breaker. The system determines one or more operating parameters and controls each respective controllable circuit breaker based on the current corresponding to the respective controllable circuit breaker and based on the one or more operating parameters.

[0137] In an illustrative example of process 2500, one or more operating parameters can include multiple current limits, each current limit corresponding to a respective one of the multiple currents. If the respective current is greater than the corresponding current limit, then the system can control the respective controllable circuit breaker by opening the respective controllable circuit breaker.

[0138] In an illustrative example of process 2500, one or more operating parameters can include a load curve that includes a schedule for limiting the total electrical load. The system can also control each respective controllable circuit breaker based on the load curve.

[0139] In an illustrative example of process 2500, one or more operating parameters can include time information. The system can also control each respective controllable circuit breaker based on the time information. For example, the time information can include an on / off schedule for each circuit breaker (e.g., which can be based on the measured load in the branch circuit), duration information (e.g., how long the branch circuit will remain on), any other suitable time information, an estimated remaining time (e.g., during battery power operation or until a predetermined disconnection), or any combination thereof.

[0140] In an illustrative example of process 2500, the system can (e.g., at step 2510) detect a fault condition and determine one or more operating parameters based on the fault condition. For example, the system can determine a fault current (e.g., based on the measured current from step 2502), receive a fault indicator (e.g., received from a user input at step 2504), receive a fault indicator from a network entity (e.g., received from system information at step 2506), receive a fault indicator from another device (e.g., received from step 2508), determine the fault condition in any other suitable manner, or any combination thereof.

[0141] Figures 26 - 30 An illustrative view and components of a power panel 2600 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. For example, panel 2600 is Figure 1 an illustrative example of system 100 of Figures 5 - 16 that can be used to implement any of the illustrative configurations shown in

[0142] Figure 26 Shows a bottom view, a side view, and a front view of an illustrative panel 2600 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 27 Shows a perspective view of an illustrative panel 2600 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, panel 2600 includes:

[0143] A radome 2602 (e.g., configured to house an antenna for receiving / transmitting communication signals);

[0144] A gateway 2604 (e.g., control circuitry);

[0145] A front end 2606 (e.g., for providing an identifiable / safe user interface to a circuit breaker);

[0146] A power module 2608 (e.g., for powering components of panel 2600 using AC, DC, or both);

[0147] A main breaker 2610 (e.g., controllable by gateway 2604);

[0148] A main relay 2612 (e.g., for controlling the main power using gateway 2604);

[0149] (One or more) controllable breakers 2614 (e.g., for controlling branch circuits);

[0150] Sensor boards 2616 and 2617 (e.g., for measuring current, voltage, or both, or their characteristics, and panel 2600 includes two sensor boards);

[0151] An internal load center 2618 (e.g., including a bus bar and a backplane); and

[0152] Power electronics 2620 (e.g., for generating / managing a DC bus, for interfacing with loads and generation).

[0153] In some embodiments, the internal load center 2618 of the panel 2600 is configured to house a plurality of controllable circuit breakers 2614, where each circuit breaker is communicatively coupled (e.g., directly or via an interface board) to the gateway 2604. As shown, the panel 2600 includes an internal housing 2650 and an external housing 2651. The external housing 2651 may be configured to house power electronics 2620 and any other suitable components (e.g., components that are typically not accessible to the user for safety reasons). In some embodiments, the internal housing 2650 provides the user with access to the circuit breaker switches and to the user interface of the gateway 2604. For illustration, conductors from a service substation (e.g., two single-phase lines 180 degrees out of phase and a neutral line, three-phase lines and a neutral line, or any other suitable configuration) may be routed to the top of the panel 2600 (e.g., a meter may be mounted directly above the panel 2600) and terminated at the main circuit breaker 2610. Each line and an optional neutral line are then routed to the main relay 2612, which controls the supply of power to / from the internal load center 2618 (e.g., its busbars). Below the main relay 2612, each line is coupled to a corresponding busbar (e.g., on which the controllable circuit breakers 2614 may be secured). In some embodiments, the busbars may include or be equipped with current sensors, such as shunt current sensors, current transformers, Rogowski coils, any other suitable current sensors, or any combination thereof. The neutral line may be coupled to a termination board, a busbar, or any other suitable power distribution system (e.g., providing a neutral line for each controllable circuit breaker, branch circuit, current sensor, or combination thereof). As shown, the sensor boards 2616 and 2617 each include a plurality of current sensors (e.g., each branch circuit may have a dedicated current sensor). The sensor boards 2616 and 2617 may output analog signals, conditioned analog signals (e.g., filtered, amplified), digital signals (e.g., including level shifting, digital filtering of electrical or optical characteristics), any other suitable output, or any combination thereof.

[0154] Figures 28A - 28D Several views of a sensor board 2616 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown (e.g., the sensor board 2617 may be the same as, similar to, or dissimilar from the sensor board 2616). Figure 29 A perspective view of a sensor board 2616 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Refer Figure 28A , a top view of the sensor board 2616 is shown, Figure 28B a side view of the sensor board 2616 is shown, Figure 28C an end view of the sensor board 2616 is shown, and Figure 28DShows a bottom view of the sensor board 2616. As shown, the sensor board 2616 includes a PCB 2691, a PCB support 2692 fixed to the PCB 2691, a current sensor 2690 fixed to the PCB 2691, an indicator 2696 (e.g., an LED indicator), a controller port 2693, a power and I / O port 2694, and a power and I / O port 2695. Each current sensor in the current sensor 2690 includes a passage for accommodating a line or a neutral line to sense current. For example, each current sensor of the current sensor 2690 may correspond to a branch circuit. In some embodiments, the power and I / O ports 2694 and 2695 are configured to be coupled to other sensor boards (e.g., the sensor board 2617), a power supply (e.g., the power module 2608), the gateway 2604, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the controller port 2693 is configured to interface with a control circuit system (e.g., the gateway 2604 or others) to receive / send or receive and send communication signals. In some embodiments, the ports 2693, 2694, and 2695 are configured to transmit analog signals, power (e.g., DC power), digital signals, or any combination thereof.

[0155] Figure 30 Shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panel 2600 (i.e., the exploded panel 3000) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The panel 3000 more clearly illustrates the components of the panel 2600.

[0156] Some illustrative aspects of the systems described herein are described below. For example, in Figures 1 - 22 、 Figure 24 and Figures 26 - 30 Any illustrative systems, components, and configurations described in the context of can be used to implement any of the techniques, processes, and use cases described herein.

[0157] In some embodiments, the system (e.g., Figure 1The system 100) is configured for power grid health monitoring; managing energy reserves and power flow; and integrating ATS / disconnect functionality into the panel. The breaker distribution panel can be designed to connect to the utility grid as well as battery inverters or other distributed energy sources, and can include one or more switchgears on the circuit connecting the distribution panel to the utility connection point, one or more switchgears on the branch circuits serving the loads, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system includes voltage measurement devices connected to all phases on the utility grid side of the utility point connecting the circuit switchgear, and these voltage measurement devices are in turn connected to a logic circuitry capable of determining the state of the utility grid. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more logic devices (e.g., the control circuitry of a gateway) capable of generating a signal to disconnect the distribution panel from the utility grid when the utility grid state is not suitable for powering the loads connected to the distribution panel, thereby forming a local power system island, and passively allowing or causing the distributed energy sources to power the island (e.g., using switchgears connected by electrical signals or actuation circuits). In some embodiments, the system includes a pre-programmed selection of branch circuits that can be disabled when the local power system operates as an island to optimize energy consumption or maintain the power consumption of the island power system at a level low enough to be supplied by the distributed energy sources. In some embodiments, the system executes logic that generates and / or uses predictions of branch circuit loads, appliance loads, measurements of branch circuit loads (e.g., based on signals from a sensor board), or combinations thereof to dynamically disconnect or reconnect branch circuits to distributed energy sources, send electrical signals to appliances on the branch circuits to enable or disable them to optimize energy consumption, maintain the power consumption of the island power system at a level low enough to be supplied by the distributed energy sources, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the system includes energy storage devices, such as one or more capacitors or batteries, capable of maintaining logic power and switchgear actuation power during the period after the utility point connecting the circuit switchgear has disconnected the power system from the utility grid and before the distributed energy sources start powering the island power system, in order to facilitate the actuation of the connection point and branch circuit switchgears to achieve the above functions. Figure 26 the main line relay 2612) of Figure 26 to disconnect the distribution panel from the utility grid, thereby forming a local power system island, and passively allowing or causing the distributed energy sources to power the island (e.g., using switchgears connected by electrical signals or actuation circuits). In some embodiments, the system includes a pre-programmed selection of branch circuits that can be disabled when the local power system operates as an island to optimize energy consumption or maintain the power consumption of the island power system at a level low enough to be supplied by the distributed energy sources. In some embodiments, the system executes logic that generates and / or uses predictions of branch circuit loads, appliance loads, measurements of branch circuit loads (e.g., based on signals from a sensor board), or combinations thereof to dynamically disconnect or reconnect branch circuits to distributed energy sources, send electrical signals to appliances on the branch circuits to enable or disable them to optimize energy consumption, maintain the power consumption of the island power system at a level low enough to be supplied by the distributed energy sources, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the system includes energy storage devices, such as one or more capacitors or batteries, capable of maintaining logic power and switchgear actuation power during the period after the utility point connecting the circuit switchgear has disconnected the power system from the utility grid and before the distributed energy sources start powering the island power system, in order to facilitate the actuation of the connection point and branch circuit switchgears to achieve the above functions.

[0158] In some embodiments, the system (e.g., Figure 1 the system 100) is configured to provide hardware security against phase imbalance or excessive phase voltage in the distribution panel serving the island power system. In some embodiments, the system includes a breaker distribution panel (e.g., Figure 26of the panel 2600), the breaker panel is designed to be connected to a battery inverter or other distributed energy source. The panel can be configured to operate in an islanded mode of operation where the served AC power system is disconnected from any utility grid. In some embodiments, the distributed energy source powering the panel is connected using fewer electrical conductors (hereinafter referred to as "conductors") than the power system served by the panel. The panel can include a transformer or autotransformer, or can be designed to be connected to a transformer or autotransformer having at least one set of windings, the number of terminals of which is equal to the number of conductors of the power system served by the panel. In some embodiments, the transformer is designed to receive power from a connection including the same number of electrical conductors as the connection to the distributed energy source.

[0159] In some embodiments, the panel includes a plurality of electronic hardware safety features and a plurality of power switching devices (e.g., controllable relays and circuit breakers). For example, the safety features can be designed to monitor the voltage differences across all electrical conductors of the provided power system, or to monitor the voltage of each conductor of the power system relative to a shared return electrical conductor ("neutral") or both. The system (e.g., its control circuitry) can monitor the voltage (hereinafter referred to as "phase voltage"), or a suitable combination of the voltage and the difference in phase voltage, such that the supply voltage to all devices served by the power system is thereby monitored.

[0160] In some embodiments, the system (e.g., Figure 1 system 100) includes a safety feature that is configured to maintain a safe state in the event of a single point component failure or wiring failure. For example, if a condition is detected that could result in an overvoltage being supplied to any load served by the panel, the safety feature can be configured to completely disconnect the distributed energy source from the panel. In a further example, the panel is connected to a 240V battery inverter that has two terminals with corresponding conductors. In some embodiments, the panel includes an autotransformer having two windings and three terminals, and is configured to serve a 120V / 240V split-phase type islanded power system. For example, such a configuration includes three conductors for supplying two 120V circuits relative to a shared neutral conductor, each 120V conductor being supplied power that is 180 degrees out of phase with respect to each other. In some such embodiments, the panel includes one or more of the following:

[0161] (1) A single-phase 240V battery inverter that includes an overvoltage detection circuit that disables the output of the inverter when an overvoltage is detected.

[0162] (2) A central voltage imbalance detector circuit that sends a signal when a phase voltage imbalance is detected.

[0163] (3) Two separate actuation circuits associated with two separate switch devices, each switch device being connected to a battery inverter circuit.

[0164] (4) Two voltage magnitude detector circuits, each of which is associated with each switch device and each of which monitors a phase of the power system.

[0165] (5) An actuation circuit configured to disconnect the associated switch device if a central voltage imbalance detector signal is sent, or an overvoltage associated with the monitored power system phase is detected, or if the logical power supply to the actuation circuit is lost.

[0166] (6) Optionally, an energy storage device associated with each actuation circuit such that each actuation circuit can take the actions required to disconnect the switch device after the logical power supply to the actuation circuit is lost, especially in the case where the switch device is bistable.

[0167] In some embodiments, the system (e.g., Figure 1 system 100) includes a plurality of metering circuits connected to a control circuitry (e.g., a gateway) that monitors current transducers (e.g., included in a sensor board) associated with a bus. In some embodiments, the power distribution board includes at least one power distribution conductor (hereinafter referred to as a "bus" and referring to any rigid or flexible power distribution conductor) that distributes power to a plurality of branch circuits. For example, each branch circuit may include one or more current transducers, such as current measurement shunts, non-isolated current transformers, non-isolated Rogowski coils, any other suitable current sensors, or any combination thereof (e.g., using Figure 26 sensor board 2616 or any other suitable sensor system). In some embodiments, all branch circuits associated with a given bus are monitored by a plurality of metering circuits, each of which measures the current or power associated with a given branch circuit or a group of branch circuits (e.g., using Figure 26 sensor board 2616 or any other suitable sensor system). The metering circuits can be connected together without galvanic isolation, and the metering circuits can include, for example, a common-mode filter, a differential amplifier, or a system of both. A metering circuit including one or more filters or filter systems can be able to produce accurate results based on the signals generated by the current transducers even in the presence of transient or steady-state voltage differences between the transducers of each branch circuit served by the bus. Such differences can be caused by voltage differences associated with the current flowing through the resistive or inductive impedances of the bus and branch circuit system and can be coupled to the current transducers either through direct current connections or through parasitic or intentional capacitive coupling.

[0168] In the present disclosure, "non-isolated" should be understood to refer to the condition existing between two electrical conductors when they are in direct electrical contact, or when the strength or magnitude of any insulation or spacing therebetween is insufficient to provide the functional or safety design requirements that would be needed if one conductor were energized with a potential associated with a conductor in the electrical system served by the distribution board and the other conductor were left floating or connected to a different electrical potential served by the electrical system.

[0169] In some embodiments, the metering circuits (e.g., which send sensor signals) share a common logic or low-voltage power supply system. In some embodiments, the metering circuits share a non-isolated communication medium. In some embodiments, the metering circuits are co-located on a single printed circuit board (e.g., Figure 26 sensor board 2616), which is physically close to the busbar and similar in size to the length of the busbar, and where the printed low-voltage power distribution conductors associated with the metering circuits are electrically connected to the busbar at a single central point near the middle of the busbar length. In some embodiments, the power supply system is galvanically combined with the busbar at one or more points.

[0170] In some embodiments, the system (e.g., Figure 1 system 100) includes an electrical connection to the busbar that is formed using a pair of resistive elements (e.g., resistors) connected between the printed power distribution conductor and each lead associated with a single current measurement shunt type of current transducer (e.g., which serves one of its respective branch circuits). For example, the transducer may be arranged near the middle of the length of the busbar. Additionally, the size of the resistive elements may be adjusted such that any current flowing through them due to the potential drop across the shunt transducer is negligible compared to the resistance of the shunt and the resistance of any connecting conductors connecting the shunt to the resistors, such that when the current flows, it does not have a substantial effect on the signal voltage produced by the transducer.

[0171] In some embodiments, a pair of systems as previously described is included (e.g., Figure 1 two instances of system 100, which may but need not necessarily be similarly configured), where one system is associated with each line voltage busbar of a 120V / 240V split-phase electrical distribution board. In some embodiments, each system is connected to a central communication device or computing device (e.g., including control circuitry) via a galvanically isolated communication link, and where each system is served by a separate galvanically isolated power supply.

[0172] Figure 31FIG. shows a block diagram of a system including an illustrative power panel 3110 having a relay in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. An AC power source (such as AC service substation 3101) includes one or more electrical conductors configured to transmit AC power. As Figure 31As shown, service substation 3101 includes a neutral line (e.g., a grounded neutral line), a first line (e.g., L1 as 120VAC), and a second line (e.g., L2 as 120VAC, which is 180 degrees out of phase with L1). The service substation line is coupled to meter 3102, which is configured to sense, record, or both, power usage and power generation. For example, meter 3102 may include current sensors and voltage sensors for determining usage. The L1 and L2 lines are coupled to main contactor 3111, which is used to disconnect the components of power panel 3110 from AC service substation 3101 (e.g., for safety, service, or component installation). For example, as shown, main contactor 3111 may be a two-pole single-throw contactor configured to disconnect L1 and L2 from the remainder of power panel 3110. Main relays 3112 and 3122 are configured to couple the respective L1 and L2 to respective buses 3113 and 3123. In some embodiments, main relays 3112 and 3122 are communicatively coupled to control circuitry 3130 and may thus be actuated open or closed by control circuitry 3130. For example, main relays 3112 and 3122 may include control terminals configured to couple to control circuitry 3130 and current-carrying terminals configured to conduct current from L1 and L2. Main relays 3112 and 3122 may include, for example, solenoid-based relays, solid-state relays, any other suitable type of relay, or any combination thereof. Buses 3113 and 3123 are each configured to interface-couple to a plurality of relays and sensors, which in turn are coupled to corresponding circuit breakers. In some embodiments, buses 3113 and 3123 distribute lines L1 and L2 to a plurality of respective relays 3114 and 3124 having integrated current sensors. For example, bus 3113 may engage a plurality of relays 3114 including current measuring shunts. Voltage measurement leads may be coupled to the current shunts (e.g., having known and precise resistance or impedance) and also coupled to control circuitry 3130 for voltage measurement (e.g., real-time voltage measurement across respective shunts to determine real-time current flow). In an illustrative example, the current shunt may include a metal bar having a precise geometry or otherwise having a precisely known resistance. In some embodiments, control circuitry 3130 is configured to open and close relays 3114 and 3124 and to read the voltage drop across the current shunts. Circuit breakers 3115 and 3125 may include circuit breakers configured to provide mechanical or manual interruption. For example, circuit breakers 3115 and 3125 may be accessible to a user for resetting, closing, and observing (e.g., observing whether tripped). Circuit breaker 3115 engages relay 3114 and circuit breaker 3125 engages relay 3124.For example, the outputs of circuit breakers 3115 and 3125 are lines L1 and L2, which can be used to couple to the wiring and loads (e.g., load 3140) of the site.

[0173] In the illustrative example, referring to Figure 31 , the power panel 3110 can be the "main" panel of a residence. The power utility entity can provide and manage the service substation 3101 (or the distribution lines coupled thereto), the electricity meter 3102 (e.g., record usage from the electricity meter 3102 on a certain schedule), or both, or specify their requirements. The power panel can include a main contactor 3111 near the top of the panel, where main relays 3112 and 3122 are arranged behind the main contactor 3111 (e.g., deeper into the wall as seen by the user).

[0174] In the illustrative example referring to Figure 31 , the power panel 3110 can be retrofitted into a residential power system to replace a conventional panel. In some embodiments, the main contactor 3111 (or the main circuit breaker in some embodiments), the main relays 3112 and 3122, the buses 3113 and 3123, and the branch relays 3114 and 3124 are mounted on a backplane. In some such embodiments, a blank faceplate is installed to cover the relay components and buses, with only the bus tabs exposed, thereby providing a path for the circuit breakers to engage the relay switching buses.

[0175] In some embodiments, one or more relays are included in the panel and can be controlled by a control circuitry 3130. In some such embodiments, the system is configured for mechanical opening (e.g., from a circuit breaker), controlled opening (e.g., from a relay), circuit interruption and reset (e.g., from a circuit breaker, a relay, or both), or a combination thereof. For example, a user can manually interact with the power panel 3110 (e.g., by opening or closing a circuit breaker) via an integrated user interface (e.g., a touch screen or a touchpad), via a software application (e.g., installed on a smart phone or other user device), or any combination thereof.

[0176] Figure 32FIG. 0 shows a block diagram of a system 3200 including an illustrative power panel having relays 3230 and 3231 and shunt current sensors 3220 and 3221, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, system 3200 includes a main breaker 3201, a main current sensor 3202, a main relay 3203, lines 3204 and 3205 (e.g., L1 and L2), shunts 3220 and 3221, relays 3230 and 3231, breakers 3240 and 3241, shunts 3290 and 3291, relays 3297 and 3292, breakers 3298 and 3293, an autotransformer 3299, an inverter 3294, a relay drive overrider 3280, and a phase imbalance monitor 3270.

[0177] The first branch includes line 3204 (e.g., L1), where for each branch circuit, shunt current sensor 3220, relay 3230, and breaker 3240 are serially coupled. Similarly, the second branch includes line 3205 (e.g., L2), where for each branch circuit, shunt current sensor 3221, relay 3231, and breaker 3241 are serially coupled. Also coupled to lines 3204 and 3205 are shunt current sensor 3290, relay 3297, breaker 3298, and autotransformer 3299, and shunt current sensor 3291, relay 3292, breaker 3293, and inverter 3294. Relay drive overrider 3280 is coupled to each of relays 3297, 3292, and phase imbalance monitor 3270.

[0178] Figures 33A - 42 FIG. 7 shows an illustrative example of components and aspects of a power panel, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, Figures 33A - 42 the illustrative components shown in Figure 31 can be included in a power panel, such as Figure 32 power panel 3110,

[0179] Figure 33A FIG. 17 shows a front view of an illustrative assembly including a backplane with branch relays and a control board mounted thereon, Figure 33B FIG. 19 shows a side view of the assembly, and Figure 33C FIG. 21 shows a bottom view of the assembly. Figure 34 FIG. 23 shows, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figures 33A - 33CPerspective view 3400 and exploded view 3450 of an illustrative component, with some components labeled. As shown, eight branch relays 3310 are mounted on a backplane 3303 (e.g., in a 4*2 arrangement), where the first terminal 3312 of each branch relay 3310 is fixed to a busbar (e.g., busbar 3301 or busbar 3302), and the second terminal 3311 of each branch relay 3310 extends outward (e.g., in a side view, extending towards the user on the left side). For example, as shown, the first terminal 3312 is fixed by a threaded fastener (e.g., a nut screwed onto a stud such as a pem stud). A plurality of wires 3355 connect the branch relays 3310 to corresponding connectors 3356 of a corresponding control board (e.g., control board 3350 or control board 3351, but in some embodiments, a single board may be used). For example, the wires 3355 may be configured to transmit control signals from control boards 3350 and 3351 to each relay 3310 to cause the relay to open or close a circuit. In another example, the wires 3355 may be configured to transmit sensor signals (e.g., voltage signals) from current shunts integrated into each relay 3310 to control boards 3350 and 3351 (e.g., which may determine current based on the voltage drop across the shunt). In some embodiments, the backplane 3303 is configured to be mounted to an electrical enclosure, a building structure, included in a power component, or a combination thereof. As shown, each of control boards 3350 and 3351 includes four connectors 3356, but any suitable number of control boards (e.g., one, two, or more than two) may be included, and each control board may include any suitable number of connectors, electrical terminals, or electrical interfaces. As Figure 34 shown, the second terminal 3311 is also referred to herein as a "branch breaker tab", control boards 3350 and 3351 are also referred to herein as "column PCBs" or control circuitry, and backplane 3303 is also referred to herein as a "trunk bus enclosure". In some embodiments, each of control boards 3350 and 3351 may be electrically coupled to a central controller, which may include control circuitry, a user interface, a communication interface, a memory, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. For example, each of control boards 3350 and 3351 may be connected to the controller via a cable (e.g., having suitable termination connectors), terminated wires, or both. As Figure 34As shown, it includes main line buses 3301 and 3302, which may correspond to two different AC lines (e.g., L1 and L2 of a common entity service substation). It will be understood that although the wire 3355 coupled to the branch relay 3310 is shown as being coupled to the control boards 3350 and 3351, it may be coupled to a central controller having a control circuit system, and thus the control boards 3350 and 3351 need not be included. The control boards 3350 and 3351 may include a control circuit system, may be mounted intermediate the branch relay 3310 and the central controller, or may be completely omitted. It will be understood that the control board 3350, 3351, or both may provide any suitable functions and may include, for example, a current sensing board, a sensor board and an interface board, a PCB, any other suitable control circuit system, or any combination thereof. For example, the control board may be configured to receive sensor signals, provide control signals, execute feedback control loops, condition signals (e.g., amplify, filter, or modulate), convert signals, generate signals, manage power, receive and transmit digital signals, any other suitable functions, or any combination thereof. It will be understood that the control board may provide any suitable functions and may include, for example, a current sensing board, a sensor board and an interface board, a PCB, any other suitable control circuit system, or any combination thereof. For example, the control board may be configured to receive sensor signals, provide control signals, execute feedback control loops, condition signals (e.g., amplify, filter, or modulate), convert signals, generate signals, manage power, receive and transmit digital signals, any other suitable functions, or any combination thereof.

[0180] Figure 35A FIG. 4 shows a front view of an illustrative assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure including a backplane 3303 having a branch relay 3310 and control boards 3350 and 3351 mounted thereon, an air interface 3330 mounted thereon, and a circuit breaker 3320 mounted thereon. Figure 35B FIG. 5 shows a side view of the assembly. Figure 35C FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of the assembly, and Figure 35D FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the assembly. The circuit breaker 3320 engages with a second terminal 3311 of the branch relay 3310 to form a branch circuit.

[0181] Figure 36A FIG. 4 shows a front view of an illustrative assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure including a backplane 3303 having a branch relay 3310 and control boards 3350 and 3351 mounted thereon, an air interface 3330 mounted thereon, and a circuit breaker 3320 mounted thereon. Figure 36B FIG. 5 shows a side view of the assembly. Figure 36C FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of the assembly, and Figure 36D FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the assembly, in which a branch relay sensor and control line 3357 are illustrated. As shown,Figures 36A - 36D The components of Figures 35A - 35D are the same as those of Figures 36A - 36D , with the addition of sensor and relay control line 3357 therein. For example, each branch relay 3310 may include three control terminals configured to allow bidirectional actuation of a control coil (e.g., the control coil for a solenoid-actuated relay). In some embodiments, the sense line and relay control line 3357 (e.g., from a current shunt and sense pins and actuator pins) may but do not necessarily terminate at a single connector. For example, as shown, each branch relay 3310 includes a single connector 3356.

[0182] Figure 37A shows an exploded perspective view of illustrative components of Figures 36A - 36D in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 37B shows an exploded side view of illustrative components of Figures 36A - 36D , with some components labeled. In some embodiments, each branch relay 3310 may include electrical terminals configured to engage with an electrical connector (e.g., an electrical connector of a wire harness), engage with a separate termination connector of a wire harness or cable, be soldered to any other suitable electrical interface, or any combination thereof. For example, an installer deadfront 3330, one or more neutral bars 3304, and a branch circuit breaker 3320 may be added to the Figures 33A - Figure 34 components to create the Figures 36A - 37B components. In some embodiments, the installer deadfront 3330 is installed to hide the branch relay 3310 from the user, prevent the user from accessing the branch relay 3310, or otherwise provide a simplified interface to the user. For example, the user can interact with, replace, install, and view the branch circuit breaker 3320 without accessing the branch relay 3310. As shown, the branch relay 3310 may be controlled by control boards 3350 and 3351. In another example, the neutral bar 3304 (e.g., coupled to a neutral wire of a common entity service substation) may be fixed to the installer deadfront 3330 and may include screw terminals for securing the neutral wire. The branch circuit breaker 3320 may be installed and electrically coupled to a second terminal 3311 of each branch relay 3310 to provide protected AC power. For example, each branch circuit breaker 3320 includes terminals that may secure a wire (e.g., to provide an AC voltage). An external deadfront (not shown) may be installed to cover the branch circuit breaker 3320, thereby providing access only to the breaker toggle switch 3321 with which the user can interact. As Figures 36A - 36DAs shown, each branch circuit breaker 3320 can engage a busbar (e.g., busbar 3301 or busbar 3302) and a neutral bar (e.g., either of neutral bars 3304), and can include corresponding terminals (e.g., line and neutral) to which branch circuit wiring can terminate. In some embodiments, each branch circuit breaker 3320 can engage busbar 3301 or 3302 and include a single output terminal, and the corresponding neutral line can terminate at a neutral busbar (e.g., neutral bar 3304) having screw terminals, for example. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, any suitable type of branch circuit breaker 3320 (e.g., manual breaker, controllable breaker, trick breaker, bipolar breaker) having any suitable capacity or operating characteristics can be included. The assembly can include a backplane 3303, busbars 3301 and 3302, a relay layer (e.g., an array of branch relays 3310 fixed to busbar 3301 or 3302), an air terminal layer (e.g., air terminal 3330), a breaker layer (e.g., an array of branch circuit breakers 3320, each fixed to busbar 3301 or 3302), and a customer air terminal layer (not shown), all of which are disposed within an electrical enclosure.

[0183] Figure 38A A front view of an illustrative assembly 3800 including a relay enclosure 3830 having a main line relay 3810 mounted thereon, a main line breaker 3820 mounted thereon, and busbars 3801 and 3802 is shown, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 38B A side view of the assembly is shown. Figure 38C A bottom view of the assembly is shown. Figure 38D A perspective view of the assembly is shown. Figure 38E A perspective exploded view of the assembly is shown, and Figure 38F A side exploded view of the assembly is shown. The main line relay 3810 includes two first terminals coupled to two corresponding busbars 3801 and 3802 (e.g., L1 and L2). The main line relay 3810 also includes two second terminals coupled to two corresponding terminals of the main line breaker 3820 (e.g., corresponding to L1 and L2 accommodated by the main line bus enclosure 3803). For example, the main line breaker 3820 is coupled to L1 and L2 from a meter. The main line relay 3810 can also be referred to as an “island operation relay” as it is configured to disconnect the panel and panel circuitry from an AC power source (e.g., a common entity service substation). As shown, current sensors 3811 (e.g., current transformers or any other suitable current sensors) are mounted on each of L1 and L2 to sense current in the AC lines. For example, the current sensors can be coupled to a control circuitry via wires such that the control circuitry can determine the current in one or both of L1 and L2 (e.g., instantaneous current, average current, or otherwise derived current). Figures 38A - 38DThe two cable portions 3899 shown include sensor lines corresponding to solid-core current transformers.

[0184] Figure 39 A perspective view of an illustrative branch relay 3900 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The breaker terminal 3920 is a secondary terminal (e.g., Figures 33A - Figure 34 the secondary terminal 3311 of Figures 35A - Figure 37B ), and one of the branch breakers (e.g., Figures 33A - Figure 34 the branch breaker 3320 of

[0185] Figure 40 A perspective view of an illustrative branch relay 3900 and breaker 4020 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The branch breaker 4020 is fixed to the breaker terminal 3920 (e.g., the second terminal). For example, the branch breaker 4020 may include a clamping mechanism that clamps the breaker terminal 3920, thereby maintaining electrical contact between the branch breaker 4020 and the branch relay 3900. In some embodiments, a dead-front surface (not shown) may physically separate the branch breaker 4020 from the branch relay 3900, except for an opening through which the breaker terminal 3920 protrudes.

[0186] Figure 41Shows an exploded perspective view of an illustrative panel 4100 with branch circuits in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the panel 4200 does not include an installer's dead front, but may optionally include a dead front. For example, the main buses 4101 and 4102 may include respective current shunts in the branch extensions (e.g., the inwardly extending structures to which the branch relays 4110 are fixed). In another example, the main buses 4101 and 4102 may include a comb-like structure as shown in Figure 41 and each extension is configured to fix one of the branch relays 4110, which may include a current shunt having sense pins or terminals to determine the branch current based on the voltage drop across the shunt. In some embodiments, each branch relay 4110 may include electrical terminals that are configured to engage an electrical connector (e.g., an electrical connector of a wire harness), engage a separate termination connector of a wire harness or cable, be soldered to any other suitable electrical interface, or any combination thereof. The branch circuit breaker 4120 may be mounted and electrically coupled to the second terminal of each branch relay 4110 to provide protected AC power. For example, each branch circuit breaker 4120 includes terminals that may secure wires (e.g., to provide an AC voltage). An external dead front (not shown) may be mounted to cover the branch circuit breaker 4120, thereby providing access only to the breaker toggle switch 4121 with which the user may interact. In some embodiments, each branch circuit breaker 4120 may engage the bus 4101 or 4102 and include a single output terminal, and the corresponding neutral wire may terminate at, for example, a neutral bus having screw terminals. Any suitable type of branch circuit breaker 4120 (e.g., manual breaker, controllable breaker, trick breaker, bipolar breaker) having any suitable capacity or operating characteristics may be included in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The components may include a backplane 4103, buses 4101 and 4102, a relay layer (e.g., an array of branch relays 4110 fixed to the bus 4101 or 4102), a dead front layer (e.g., not shown), a breaker layer (e.g., an array of branch circuit breakers 4120, each fixed to the bus 4101 or 4102), and a customer dead front layer (not shown), all of which are arranged in an electrical enclosure. In some embodiments, as shown, the wire 4155 may be configured to transmit a sensor signal (e.g., a voltage signal) from the current shunt integrated into each relay 4110 to the connectors 4156 of the control boards 4150 and 4151 (e.g., which may determine the current based on the voltage drop across the shunt). In some embodiments, as shown, the wire 4155 may be configured to transmit relay control signals from the control boards 4150 and 4151 to the appropriate terminals of the branch relays 4110.

[0187] Figure 42A perspective view of an illustrative mounting panel 4200 having a branch circuit 4220, a main breaker 4208, and an autotransformer 4290 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For clarity, Figure 42 several components are not shown, including, for example, customer dead fronts, panel fronts, incoming conduits and AC lines, and outgoing branch circuit conduits and corresponding electrical wires. In some embodiments, the power panel 4200 is configured to be mounted in a residential structure (e.g., between 16-inch on-center 4x2 walls 4280). As shown, the main lines L1 and L2 and the neutral are introduced through the top of the panel 4200 from the meter (e.g., in conduits coupled to openings in the top of the panel). The main lines are then routed to the main breaker 4208, main relays (not shown), main buses, branch relays with shunts, branch breakers, and finally to the branch circuits (e.g., residential wiring and outlets, and ultimately electrical loads). As shown, an autotransformer 4270 is included and is coupled to an external device (not shown). The external device can include an inverter (e.g., from a solar PV facility) or other off-grid AC power source. In some embodiments, the autotransformer has a fixed turns ratio (e.g., a fixed voltage ratio). In some embodiments, the autotransformer 4270 has a variable and controllable turns ratio (e.g., a variable voltage ratio). For example, the autotransformer 4270 can be coupled to the main bus and the neutral via a relay. When grid-connected, the autotransformer 4270 can be disconnected from the bus and the neutral. When operating in island mode, the main relay and / or breaker 4208 can be opened, and the autotransformer 4270 relay is closed, thereby electrically coupling the branch circuit neutral point to the inverter neutral point and coupling the main bus to the line of the inverter with appropriate voltage conversion at the autotransformer.

[0188] Figure 42The computer 4240 shown in FIG. includes control circuitry configured to manage and control aspects of the power panel. For example, the computer 4240 may be configured to control the throw position of one or more main relays (e.g., coupled to the main circuit breaker 4208), one or more branch relays, any other suitable relay or controllable switch, or any combination thereof (e.g., of the branch circuit 4220). In a further example, the computer 4240 may be configured to receive analog signals from sense pins (e.g., for determining the state of a relay), differential sense pins (e.g., for determining current), current sensors (e.g., for determining current), voltage sensors (e.g., for determining voltage), temperature sensors (e.g., for determining surface, component, or ambient temperature), any other suitable signal, or any combination thereof. The computer 4240 may include a power supply, a power converter (e.g., a DC-DC, AC-AC, DC-AC, or AC-DC converter), a digital I / O interface (e.g., a connector, pin, jack, or cable pigtail), an analog-to-digital converter, a signal conditioner (e.g., an amplifier, filter, modulator), a network controller, a user interface (e.g., a display device, touch screen, keyboard), a memory (e.g., solid state memory, hard disk drive, or other memory), a processor configured to execute programmed computer instructions, any other suitable equipment, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, Figure 42 the panel 4200 of FIG. includes one or more control boards coupled to the branch relays, the main relays, and the computer. In some embodiments, the computer 4240 is directly coupled to the branch relays, the main relays, the sensors, any other suitable component of the panel, or any combination thereof.

[0189] In an illustrative example, in the context of Figures 31 - 42 FIG., the power panel may permit branch circuit monitoring. In some embodiments, high accuracy branch circuit monitoring may be achieved because each circuit is equipped with an integrated shunt (e.g., with a calibrated resistive element) configured to measure the current flowing through each circuit. The electrical power in each branch circuit may be determined based on the current and voltage. For each branch circuit, this function provides the ability to perform on-line measurements of active power, reactive power, energy, any other suitable parameter, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, for the mains (e.g., L1 and L2) entering the panel, high accuracy solid core current sensors (e.g., current shunts) are assembled on each busbar to provide energy metering (e.g., whole house metering) for each branch circuit. In some embodiments, the control board is designed to accommodate pre-assembled shunts, split core CT inputs (e.g., for measuring retrofitted PV circuits, sub-panels, or other similar devices connected to the panel), or both.

[0190] In an illustrative example, in the context ofFigures 31 - 42 In the context of, the power panel can allow branch circuit control. In some embodiments, each branch circuit is equipped with a controllable relay directly mounted on the main bus, thereby allowing individual circuit-level control. In some embodiments, the input of the branch relay allows for easy installation within the power panel, and the breaker lugs are designed to accommodate standard molded case circuit breakers. In some embodiments, each relay is actuated independently and in real time by a control circuitry, thereby allowing software-defined load control within the panel. In some embodiments, the relay is designed such that the only part of the panel exposed to the installer is the breaker lug for mounting the branch circuit breaker (e.g., the installer access face hides the remainder of the relay). In some embodiments, the branch relay breaker lug is provided with sensing pins configured to detect the throw position of the relay in real time (e.g., closed or open based on the voltage at the sensing pins). According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the relay can have any suitable rating, capacity, or operating characteristics. In an illustrative example, the rated current of the branch relay can be 90A (e.g., higher than a typical residential circuit or breaker), which allows the branch circuit breaker to operate normally as a passive safety device.

[0191] In an illustrative example, in Figures 31 - 42 In the context of, the power panel can have an architecture that allows branch-level sensing and actuation. In some embodiments, a control board is used to implement branch-level sensing and actuation. In some embodiments, the control board is configured to receive analog signals from a plurality of shunt resistors. In some embodiments, the control board can include a relay driver configured to receive control signals (e.g., low voltage DC signals generated by a gateway computer) from the control circuitry. The control board can include an analog-to-digital converter, a digital I / O interface, a power supply or power conversion module, any other suitable components or functions, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the power panel includes two control boards, each disposed on one side of the interior of the panel, and each having the ability to manage multiple circuits (e.g., simultaneously). For example, the panel can include twenty circuit branches on each side of the panel. In some embodiments, the bus configuration allows for the interchange of line L1 and L2 connections, thereby allowing for the connection of bipolar circuit breakers (e.g., for 240VAC branches coupled to both L1 and L2). In some embodiments, one or more control boards and associated control logic allow for the configuration of current sensors and relay actuators in groups or clusters. For example, a relatively large load connected to a bipolar circuit breaker can be configured to be treated as a single branch for the purposes of energy metering and load control. In some embodiments, the control board is connected to a main board (e.g., a carrier board) capable of performing additional computations and supporting software applications.

[0192] In an illustrative example, in Figures 31 - 42In the context of, the power panel may include one or more autotransformers (e.g., single-winding transformers). Many solar / hybrid inverters require an external autotransformer to provide a neutral reference for phase-balanced loads. In some embodiments, the power panel includes an autotransformer enabled / provided during off-grid operation (e.g., when islanded) (e.g., via a pair of relays). In some embodiments, the control circuitry may include control logic to ensure that the autotransformer is only connected to one or more buses during off-grid operation. In some embodiments, the power panel is designed to provide suitable cooling for the autotransformer. For example, the cooling may be achieved by passive cooling elements or active cooling elements, such as fins, fans, heat exchangers, any other suitable components, or any combination thereof. The autotransformer may include a fixed primary-secondary voltage ratio or may include a variable primary-secondary voltage ratio. In an illustrative example, a solar PV inverter may provide a first AC voltage that may be reduced by the autotransformer to match the line-neutral voltage between the bus and the neutral point of the panel. Thus, the solar PV system does not need to output the same AC voltage as required by the electrical load.

[0193] In an illustrative example, in Figures 31 - 42 In the context of, the power panel may include one or more buses. Each bus may be designed to be easily coupled to the main breaker and main relay and multiple branch breakers via multiple branch relays having corresponding shunt resistors. In some embodiments, the bus may include or be fitted with threaded studs (e.g., pem studs) to allow for easy alignment and assembly with each branch relay while ensuring that the L1, L2 configuration within the panel is retained (e.g., to meet industry standards). In some embodiments, the bus is designed to have terminals (e.g., spring terminals or screw terminals) to allow devices such as sub-panels to be powered from the panel without a branch breaker.

[0194] In an illustrative example, in Figures 31 - 42In the context of [description missing in original], the power panel can include one or more dead fronts. In some embodiments, the sensing mechanism, relay actuating mechanism, and control board are assembled below the installer dead front to ensure a simplified / modular installation process. In some embodiments, a neutral bar is mounted on the installer dead front to allow the plug-in neutral breaker to align with each circuit and serve as the current return path for each circuit. In some embodiments, the only exposed part of the relay is the breaker lug to which the branch breaker is mounted. In some embodiments, the power panel includes a customer dead front in front of the breaker and load wiring that exposes only the breaker toggle switch to the customer (e.g., the distribution board may or may not include an installer dead front and a customer dead front). In some embodiments, the status light for each branch circuit is embedded in the customer dead front to facilitate system commissioning and provide visual feedback on the status of individual circuits. For example, multiple LEDs can be included on the dead front, and the LEDs can be wired to a control circuitry configured to turn the LEDs on and off. In a further example, the LEDs can include LEDs of different colors, sizes, or shapes, which are configured to indicate various states of the panel or the circuits coupled thereto.

[0195] The foregoing are only examples of the principles of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The above embodiments are presented for illustrative rather than limiting purposes. The present disclosure can take many forms other than those explicitly described herein. Therefore, it is emphasized that the present disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods, systems, and devices, but is intended to include variations and modifications within the spirit of the appended claims. For example, according to the present disclosure, any illustrative power panel, component, assembly, configuration, use case, technique, and method of the present disclosure can be combined, implemented together, implemented consistently, omitted, or otherwise modified.

[0196] The foregoing are only examples of the principles of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The above embodiments are presented for illustrative rather than limiting purposes. The present disclosure can take many forms other than those explicitly described herein. Therefore, it is emphasized that the present disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods, systems, and devices, but is intended to include variations and modifications within the spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a plurality of branch circuits; a dead front surface disposed in front of the plurality of branch circuits; and a neutral bus disposed in front of the dead front surface, wherein the neutral bus is configured to be coupled to a plurality of circuit breakers, and the plurality of circuit breakers are coupled to corresponding branch circuits of the plurality of branch circuits through openings in the dead front surface.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the dead front surface includes an installer dead front surface.

3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an external dead front surface disposed in front of the plurality of circuit breakers, wherein corresponding switches of the plurality of circuit breakers protrude from openings in the external dead front surface.

4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of branch relays of the plurality of branch circuits, each branch relay of the plurality of branch relays including a corresponding tab accessible through the opening, and each corresponding tab being configured to engage a corresponding one of the plurality of circuit breakers.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the tab protrudes through the opening.

6. The system according to claim 4, further comprising at least one current sensor configured to sense current in a corresponding branch circuit of the plurality of branch circuits.

7. The system according to claim 6, further comprising a control circuitry coupled to at least one of the plurality of branch relays, wherein the control circuitry controls the at least one of the plurality of branch relays based on a signal from the at least one current sensor.

8. The system according to claim 4, further comprising a control and communication circuitry coupled to at least one of the plurality of branch relays, wherein at least one of the plurality of branch relays is capable of being controlled by a device connected to the network based on a signal sent by the device connected to the network to the communication circuitry.

9. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: an autotransformer, comprising: at least one primary lead and a neutral lead, at least one secondary lead; and at least one autotransformer line relay that couples the at least one secondary lead to at least one bus and is configured to close during island operation and open when the at least one bus is interconnected.

10. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a main switch configured to be coupled to at least one AC line and at least one bus; and a main relay arranged in series with the main switch.

11. An integrated power panel, comprising: a plurality of branch circuits; a dead front surface disposed in front of the plurality of branch circuits; and a neutral bus disposed in front of the dead front surface, wherein the neutral bus is configured to be coupled to a plurality of circuit breakers, and the plurality of circuit breakers are coupled to corresponding branch circuits of the plurality of branch circuits through openings in the dead front surface.

12. The integrated power panel according to claim 11, wherein the dead front surface includes an installer dead front surface.

13. The integrated power panel according to claim 11, further comprising an external dead front disposed in front of the plurality of circuit breakers, wherein respective switches of the plurality of circuit breakers protrude from openings of the external dead front.

14. The integrated power panel according to claim 11, further comprising a plurality of branch relays for the plurality of branch circuits, each branch relay of the plurality of branch relays including a respective terminal accessible through the opening, each respective terminal being configured to engage a corresponding one of the plurality of circuit breakers.

15. The integrated power panel according to claim 14, wherein the terminals protrude through the openings.

16. The integrated power panel according to claim 14, further comprising at least one current sensor configured to sense current in a respective one of the plurality of branch circuits.

17. The integrated power panel according to claim 16, further comprising a control circuitry coupled to at least one of the plurality of branch relays, wherein the control circuitry controls the at least one of the plurality of branch relays based on a signal from the at least one current sensor.

18. The integrated power panel according to claim 14, further comprising a control and communication circuitry coupled to at least one of the plurality of branch relays, wherein the at least one of the plurality of branch relays is capable of being controlled by a device connected to a network based on a signal sent by the device connected to the network to the communication circuitry.

19. The integrated power panel according to claim 11, further comprising: an autotransformer, comprising: at least one primary lead and neutral lead, at least one secondary lead; and at least one autotransformer line relay coupling the at least one secondary lead to at least one bus and configured to close during island operation and open when the at least one bus is interconnected.

20. The integrated power panel according to claim 11, further comprising: a main switch configured to be coupled to at least one AC line and at least one bus; and a main relay arranged in series with the main switch.

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