Energy management system and method for optimizing power load and maximizing power standby duration

Abstract

A method for determining a power source for powering a plurality of circuits using a digital junction box between a first energy source and a second energy source by setting at least a first limit and a second limit, determining a state of charge of the power source, determining an available discharge energy, and classifying each circuit. A circuit to be powered by the first energy source is determined by comparing the available discharge energy to a first limit and a second limit when the second energy source is in a non-energized state. When the second energy source is in an energized state, a circuit to be powered by the first energy source and a circuit to be powered by the second energy source are determined by comparing the current state of charge with the first and second limits.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to wall-mounted enclosure units, and more specifically to systems and methods for customizing and managing which circuits receive power from an external power source using digital junction boxes. Background Technology

[0002] Junction boxes, located within buildings including homes and offices, connect one or more power sources to one or more circuits connected to the building. Typically, these power sources include the energy grid and associated infrastructure. However, with the advent of electric vehicles, junction boxes can be used to connect electric vehicles with batteries to the building. Electric vehicles can be connected to the junction box as a separate power source to provide power to the building during grid outages.

[0003] Therefore, while wall-mounted units have achieved their intended purpose, a new and improved system and approach are needed to customize the configuration of electrical loads based on user optimization and other external factors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to several aspects, a method is provided for customizing which circuits among a plurality of circuits are connected to one of a first energy source and a second energy source using a digital junction box. The method may include determining the state of the second energy source, wherein the state includes one of: a powered-on state and a de-powered state. The second energy source is determined to be powered-on when the digital junction box receives power from the second energy source. The second energy source is determined to be de-powered when the digital junction box does not receive power from the second energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining that the energy source is the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining the current state of charge of the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include setting at least a first discharge limit and a second discharge limit for the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include classifying the circuits among the plurality of circuits into at least a first category and a second category. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining a maximum energy demand based on the energy used by the plurality of circuits over a time period. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining a minimum energy demand based on the energy used by the plurality of circuits in the first category over a time period. When the state is in an unpowered state, the method may further include determining the available discharge energy based on the sum of subtracting each limit from the current state of charge multiplied by the energy battery capacity. When the state is in an unpowered state, the method may further include comparing the available discharge energy with a first discharge limit and a second discharge limit to determine which of the multiple circuits will be powered by the first energy source when the available discharge energy is less than the minimum energy requirement and greater than the maximum energy requirement.

[0005] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, setting the first discharge limit and the second discharge limit may further include setting the first discharge limit as a first calibration value based on the discharge energy and setting the second discharge limit as a second calibration value based on the discharge energy, wherein the first calibration value is greater than the second calibration value.

[0006] In another aspect of this disclosure, classifying circuits in a plurality of circuits into at least a first category and a second category may further include classifying circuits in a plurality of circuits into a first category based on arbitrary user preferences and classifying circuits in a plurality of circuits into a second category based on arbitrary user preferences.

[0007] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining the maximum energy demand may also include taking the total power used by the multiple circuits in the first category and multiplying the total by a time calibration value.

[0008] In another aspect of this disclosure, determining the maximum energy demand may also include taking the larger value between the power consumed by the multiple circuits in the first category multiplied by the storm duration and the power consumed by the multiple circuits in the first category multiplied by the outage duration.

[0009] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining the minimum energy requirement may also include taking the total power used by the multiple circuits in the second category and multiplying the total by a time calibration value.

[0010] In another aspect of this disclosure, determining the minimum energy requirement may also include taking the larger value between the power consumed by the multiple circuits in the second category multiplied by the storm duration and the power consumed by the multiple circuits in the second category multiplied by the outage duration.

[0011] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining which of the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source may further include powering the plurality of circuits in the first and second categories when the available discharge energy is greater than the first discharge limit.

[0012] In another aspect of this disclosure, determining which of the multiple circuits will be powered by the first energy source may further include powering the multiple circuits in the second category when the available discharge energy is less than a first discharge limit and the available discharge energy is greater than a second discharge limit.

[0013] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining which of the multiple circuits will be powered by an external power source may further include powering the multiple circuits in the first and second categories when the available discharge energy is greater than the maximum energy requirement.

[0014] In another aspect of this disclosure, determining which of the multiple circuits will be powered by the first energy source may further include powering the multiple circuits in the second category when the available discharge energy is less than the minimum energy requirement and the available discharge energy is greater than the second discharge limit.

[0015] In another aspect of this disclosure, the primary energy source can be a vehicle.

[0016] In another aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for customizing which circuits among a plurality of circuits are connected to one of a first energy source and a second energy source using a digital junction box. The method may include determining the state of the second energy source, wherein the state includes one of: a powered-on state and a de-powered state. When the state is powered-on, the method may further include determining the current charging state of the first energy source. When the state is powered-on, the method may further include setting a corresponding first descent limit power to at least a first descent limit and a corresponding second descent limit power to at least a second descent limit of the first energy source. When the state is powered-on, the method may further include classifying the circuits among the plurality of circuits into at least a first descent region and a second descent region. When the state is powered-on, the method may further include comparing the current charging state with the first descent limit and the second descent limit to determine which energy source will power the plurality of circuits.

[0017] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, setting the first drop limit and the second drop limit may further include setting the first drop limit to a third calibration value based on the current state of charging, setting the first drop limit power to a fourth calibration value in terms of power, setting the second drop limit to a fifth calibration value in terms of power based on the current state of charging, and setting the second drop limit power to a sixth calibration value in terms of power, wherein the power of the third calibration value is greater than the fifth calibration value and the fourth calibration value is less than the sixth calibration value.

[0018] In another aspect of this disclosure, classifying circuits in a plurality of circuits into at least a first decreasing region and a second decreasing region may further include determining the amount of electricity used by each individual circuit; classifying an individual circuit into the first decreasing region when the amount of electricity used by an individual circuit is less than a first decreasing limit power; and classifying an individual circuit into the second decreasing region when the amount of electricity used by an individual circuit is greater than or equal to the first decreasing limit power and less than a second decreasing limit power.

[0019] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining which energy source will power the multiple circuits may further include using the first energy source to power the multiple circuits in the first and second descent regions when the current state of charge is greater than a first descent limit.

[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, determining which energy source will power the multiple circuits may further include using a first energy source to power the multiple circuits in the second descent region when the current state of charge is less than a first descent limit and the current state of charge is greater than a second descent limit, and using a second energy source to power the multiple circuits in the first descent region when the current state of charge is less than the first descent limit and the current state of charge is greater than the second descent limit.

[0021] In an additional aspect of this disclosure, determining which energy source will power the multiple circuits may further include using a second energy source to power the multiple circuits in the first and second descent regions when the current state is less than or equal to a second descent limit.

[0022] In another aspect of this disclosure, the primary energy source can be a vehicle.

[0023] In another aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided for customizing which circuits among a plurality of circuits are connected to one of a first energy source and a second energy source using a digital junction box. The method may include determining the state of the second energy source, wherein the state includes one of: a powered-on state and a de-powered state. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining that the energy source is the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining the current state of charge of the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include setting at least a first discharge limit and a second discharge limit for the first energy source. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include classifying the circuits among the plurality of circuits into at least a first category and a second category. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining a maximum energy demand based on the energy used by the plurality of circuits in the first category over a time period. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining a minimum energy demand based on the energy used by the plurality of circuits in the second category over that time period. When the state is de-powered, the method may further include determining the available discharge energy based on the sum of the subtraction of each limit from the current state of charge multiplied by the energy source's battery capacity. When the state is in the off-state, the method may further include comparing the available discharge energy with a first discharge limit and a second discharge limit to determine which circuits among the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source when the available discharge energy is less than the minimum energy requirement and greater than the maximum energy requirement. When the state is in the energized state, the method may further include determining the current charging state of the first energy source. When the state is in the energized state, the method may further include setting a corresponding first descent limit power to at least a first descent limit of the first energy source and a corresponding second descent limit power to at least a second descent limit. When the state is in the energized state, the method may further include classifying the circuits among the plurality of circuits into at least a first descent region and a second descent region. When the state is in the energized state, the method may further include comparing the current charging state with the first descent limit and the second descent limit to determine which energy source will power the plurality of circuits.

[0024] Further areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that these descriptions and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for configuring a customized digital junction box according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0027] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of an application that uses an input device to customize the configuration of a digital junction box according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a graph showing the available discharge energy of the primary energy source used in the digital junction box;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a graph showing the total battery capacity of the primary energy source used by the digital junction box;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a flowchart, according to an exemplary embodiment, of a method for determining, using a digital junction box, which circuits among a plurality of circuits are powered by a first energy source when a second energy source is not powered; and

[0031] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method, according to an exemplary embodiment, for determining, using a digital junction box, which circuits among a plurality of circuits are powered by a first energy source and which circuits among the plurality of circuits are powered by a second energy source when a second energy source is energized. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses.

[0033] refer to Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for customizing which circuits among multiple circuits are connected to which circuits among multiple energy sources using a digital junction box, generally indicated by reference numeral 10. System 10 typically includes a power receiving location 12, a first energy source 14, a second energy source 16, a digital junction box 18, and an input device 20.

[0034] The power receiving location 12 is any structure, building, or other location that can be configured to receive power. Although the power receiving location 12 is shown as a home for the purposes of this disclosure, it should be understood that the power receiving location 12 can take various forms. For example, the power receiving location 12 can be an office building or a warehouse. The power receiving location 12 can also include any location that includes equipment configured to receive power, such as a construction site. The power receiving location 12 typically includes multiple circuits 22. The multiple circuits 22 are one or more individual wires connected to one or more objects (e.g., appliances, equipment, batteries, etc.) configured to receive power. Thus, each circuit in the multiple circuits 22 is defined as a closed loop connected to the object configured to receive power. Each circuit in the multiple circuits 22 may also include switches, fuses, and other electrical devices.

[0035] A primary energy source 14 is connected to multiple circuits 22 via a digital junction box 18. The primary energy source 14 is any energy source capable of providing power to supply all circuits 22 at power receiving location 12. In the provided example, the primary energy source 14 is an energy grid. The energy grid includes power plants and infrastructure (not shown) capable of supplying power to the multiple circuits 22. The primary energy source 14 is the default power provider for power receiving location 12.

[0036] The second energy source 16 is a separate and independent energy source from the first energy source 14. In one example, the second energy source 16 is a vehicle equipped with a battery. In another example, the second energy source 16 is a generator. The second energy source 16 can be connected to multiple circuits 22 via a digital junction box 18, as will be described in more detail below.

[0037] Digital junction box 18 is used to selectively connect one of a first power source 14 and a second power source 16 to one or more circuits in a plurality of circuits 22. In one example, digital junction box 18 is permanently installed or connected to a power receiving location 12 (e.g., fixed to a home). Alternatively, digital junction box 18 may be a separate portable unit. Digital junction box 18 includes a controller 24, a switching unit 26, and a display 28.

[0038] Controller 24 is a non-general-purpose electronic control device having a pre-programmed digital computer or processor 30, memory 32, transceiver 34, and input and output ports 36. Processor 30 may be a custom or commercially available processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), an auxiliary processor among multiple processors associated with controller 24, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), a macroprocessor, a combination thereof, or generally a device for executing instructions. Memory 32 is used to store data, such as control logic, software applications, instructions, computer code, data, lookup tables, etc. Memory 32 includes any type of media that can be accessed by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk drive, optical disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. "Non-transient" computer-readable media does not include wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit transient electrical signals or other signals. Non-transient computer-readable media includes media that can permanently store data and media that can store data and subsequently be rewritten, such as rewritable optical discs or erasable storage devices. Computer code includes any type of program code, including source code, object code, and executable code. Processor 30 is configured to execute code or instructions.

[0039] Transceiver 34 is configured to communicate wirelessly with a hotspot using the Wi-Fi protocol under the IEEE 802.11x standard. Transceiver 34 is also configured to perform wireless communication using cellular data communication under the GSMA standard, such as SGP.02, SGP.22, SGP.32, etc. Suitablely, the digital junction box 18 may also include an embedded universal integrated circuit card (eUICC) configured to store at least one cellular connectivity configuration profile, such as an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profile. Transceiver 34 is also configured to communicate via a personal area network (e.g., Bluetooth), near field communication (NFC), and / or any other type of radio frequency communication.

[0040] Input and output port 36 receives input data from input device 20 and first power source 14 and transmits the input data to processor 30. Input and output port 36 also receives outgoing data from processor 30 and transmits the outgoing data to input device 20 and first power source 14. Input and output port 36 is configured to communicate wirelessly with input device 20 and first power source 14 via transceiver 34, and is also configured to communicate with input device 20 and first power source 14 via a wired Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection.

[0041] Controller 24 may also include one or more applications. An application is a software program configured to perform a specific function or set of functions. An application may include one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, associated data, or portions thereof suitable for implementation in appropriate computer-readable program code. The application may be stored within memory 32 or in additional or separate memory. Examples of applications include audio or video streaming services, games, browsers, social media, etc.

[0042] Switching unit 26 includes multiple switches 40, each having an enabled state and a disabled state. The switches among the multiple switches 40 are coupled between a first energy source 14, a second energy source 16, and multiple circuits 22. Switching unit 26 receives power from the first energy source 14 and the second energy source 16. When an individual switch among the multiple switches 40 is enabled, it allows power received from the first energy source 14 and the second energy source 16 to flow through and power the corresponding individual circuit in the multiple circuits 22. When an individual switch among the multiple switches 40 is disabled, it stops the flow of power from the first energy source 14 and the second energy source 16 to the corresponding individual circuit in the multiple circuits 22, meaning that the corresponding individual circuit in the multiple circuits 22 does not receive any power. Controller 24 determines which switches among the multiple switches 40 are enabled and disabled based on data transmitted from input device 20 and the first energy source 14 to controller 24.

[0043] Display 28 is a screen attached to digital junction box 18, which has a human-machine interface that allows users to customize digital junction box 18. Display 28 is an optional feature, meaning that digital junction box 18 does not necessarily need to have display 28.

[0044] Input device 20 is a means of transmitting output data to transceiver 34. Input device 20 includes a screen for display purposes and a human-machine interface to allow the user to customize digital junction box 18 from input device 20. Although input device 20 is shown as a mobile phone for the purposes of this disclosure, it should be understood that input device 20 can take various forms. For example, input device 20 can be a tablet computer, smartwatch, laptop computer, or desktop computer.

[0045] refer to Figure 2 An example of an application 44 for customizing a digital junction box 18 using input device 20 is shown. It should be understood that application 44 can also be used directly with the digital junction box 18 using display 28 and a human-machine interface connected to the digital junction box 18. Application 44 is configured to allow the user to categorize each of the multiple circuits 22, set discharge and descent limits, and enable and disable the use of source inputs. For example, each of the multiple circuits 22 is listed as circuits S1 to SN by application 44. A maximum power consumption is associated with each of the multiple circuits 22. The maximum power consumption is the total power required to fully power each object or device connected to each circuit S1 to SN. Application 44 allows the user to name or label each circuit S1 to SN. Additionally, each circuit S1 to SN is categorized, as will be described in more detail below.

[0046] Application 44 is configured to receive multiple source inputs 46. Source inputs 46 are transmitted directly to digital junction box 18 via wireless signals and received by transceiver 34. Source inputs 46 are not calibrated by the user. Alternatively, source inputs 46 can be transmitted to input device 20. Source inputs 46 include storm time 48, storm date 50, outage time 52, outage date 54, energy cost 56, and current charging status input 58.

[0047] Storm time 48 is data describing the expected length of the storm over a period of time. Storm date 50 is data indicating the expected date of the storm. In one example, storm time 48 and storm date 50 are transmitted directly from the weather service to digital junction box 18 and then recorded in memory 32. In another example, storm time 48 and storm date 50 are transmitted to digital junction box 18 via a first energy source and then recorded in memory 32. In yet another example, storm time 48 and storm date 50 are transmitted to digital junction box 18 via application 44 on device 20 and then recorded in memory 32.

[0048] Outage time 52 is data indicating the planned length of a power outage for the second energy source 16 within a given time period. Outage date 54 is data indicating the date on which the second energy source 16 is scheduled to experience a power outage. In one example, outage time 52 and outage date 54 are transmitted directly from the energy service provider to the digital junction box 18 and then recorded in memory 32. In another example, outage time 52 and outage date 54 are transmitted to the digital outage box 18 via the first energy source 14 and then recorded in memory 32. In yet another example, outage time 52 and outage date 54 are transmitted to the digital outage box 18 via application 44 on device 20 and then recorded in memory 32.

[0049] Energy cost 56 is data describing the energy cost of each of the multiple circuits 22. Energy cost 56 is the maximum energy cost associated with any device or other energy consumption on a single circuit. In one example, energy cost 56 is transmitted directly from the energy service provider to the digital junction box 18 and then recorded in memory 32. In another example, energy cost 56 is transmitted to the digital junction box 18 via a first energy source 14 and then recorded in memory 32. In yet another example, energy cost 56 is transmitted to the digital junction box 18 via an application 44 on device 20 and then recorded in memory 32.

[0050] The current charge state input 58 is data describing the remaining charge level in the first energy source 14. The current charge state input 58 may include voltage, estimated charge level, or fluid specific gravity, but it should be understood that other data may be included. The current charge state input 58 is transmitted directly from the first energy source 14 to the digital junction box 18 and then recorded in the memory 32.

[0051] In addition to multiple source inputs 46, application 44 also receives multiple user inputs 60. Input device 20 is configured to receive multiple user inputs 60. The multiple user inputs 60 are used to customize optimized settings for the power supplied to power receiving location 12. The multiple user inputs 60 are calibrated by the user inputting them into input device 20. The multiple user inputs 60 include: enable vehicle-to-home (V2H) input 62, enable weather service input 64, enable power outage notification input 66, first category 68, second category 70, first discharge limit 72, second discharge limit 74, enable cost optimization input 76, first drop limit 78, first drop limit power 80, second drop limit 82, and second drop limit power 84.

[0052] Enable V2H input 62 to enable power switching between the first energy source 14 and the second energy source 16. Enable V2H input 62 is a binary input with true calibration when system 10 is enabled and false calibration when system 10 is disabled.

[0053] The Weather Service Enable input 64 is used to transmit weather data from a remote weather service to the digital junction box 18. The Weather Service Enable input 64 is a binary input with true and false calibration. In true calibration, weather data is transmitted to the digital junction box 18; in false calibration, weather data is not transmitted to the digital junction box 18. The weather data includes weather-related information associated with the power receiving location 12.

[0054] The Enable Outage Notification Input 66 is used to transmit power data from the grid operator to the digital junction box 18. The Enable Outage Notification Input 66 is a binary input with true and false calibration. In true calibration, power data is transmitted to the digital junction box 18; in false calibration, power data is not transmitted to the digital junction box 18. The power data includes information related to planned outages or other issues related to grid operation.

[0055] The first category 68 is calibrated by the user, who can assign each of the multiple circuits 22 to the first category 68 based on any preference of user 42. The first category 68 is then recorded in memory 32. In one example, when the user decides that a circuit is "non-essential" based on their own arbitrary preference, the user assigns the circuits of the multiple circuits 22 to the first category 68. This means that powering the circuits placed in the first category 68 will not be prioritized over powering the circuits not placed in the second category 70.

[0056] The second category 70 is calibrated by the user, who can assign each of the multiple circuits 22 to the second category 70 based on any preference of user 42. The second category 70 is then recorded in memory 32. In one example, when the user decides a circuit is "necessary" based on their own arbitrary preference, the user assigns the circuits of the multiple circuits 22 to the second category 70. This means that power supply to the circuits placed in the second category 70 will take precedence over power supply to the circuits placed in the first category 68.

[0057] In another example, a third category exists in addition to the first category 68 and the second category 70, where the user assigns circuits in multiple circuits 22 to either the first category 68, the second category 70, or the third category. Based on their own preferences, the user decides that the circuits they assign to the first category 68 are "non-essential" circuits, meaning that power supply to circuits in the first category 68 will not take precedence over power supply to "essential" circuits in the second category 70. Furthermore, based on their own preferences, the user decides that the circuits they assign to the third category are "critical" circuits, meaning that power supply to circuits in the third category will take precedence over power supply to "non-essential" circuits in the first category 68 and "essential" circuits in the second category 70. In another example, the user assigns circuits in multiple circuits 22 to multiple categories (listed as C1 to CN), where power supply to circuits in each subsequent category takes precedence over previous categories based on the user's own preferences.

[0058] refer to Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the available discharge energy of the first energy source 14. The available discharge energy, indicated by reference numeral 90, represents the available energy that the first energy source 14 can deliver based on its energy cell capacity relative to the minimum total discharge capacity 94 and the maximum total discharge capacity 96. The available discharge energy 90 is the amount of energy of the first energy source 14 at any given time, and therefore falls between the minimum total discharge capacity 94 and the maximum total discharge capacity 96.

[0059] The available discharge energy 90 is determined and then compared with a first discharge limit 72 and a second discharge limit 74 to determine which of the plurality of circuits 22 will be powered by the first energy source 14. In one example, the available discharge energy 90 is determined by subtracting the first discharge limit 72 from the current state of charge 98 and multiplying the result by the energy battery capacity, and then adding this result to the result of subtracting the second discharge limit 74 from the current state of charge 98 and multiplying by the energy battery capacity. The energy battery capacity is the high-voltage battery capacity of the first energy source 14. The available discharge energy 90 is then recorded in memory 32.

[0060] refer to Figure 2 The current state of charge 98 is determined by the current state of charge input 58 from the first energy source 14. In one example, the current state of charge 98 is determined by measuring the voltage of the first energy source 14. In another example, the current state of charge 98 is determined by measuring the specific gravity of the first energy source 14 using its electrolyte. It should be understood that other methods may be used to determine the current state of charge 98.

[0061] The first discharge limit 72 is calibrated by the user to a first calibration value in terms of energy, and is a limit used to compare with the available discharge energy 90 to determine whether multiple circuits in the first category 68 and the second category 70 will be powered by the first energy source 14 or whether multiple circuits in the second category 70 will be powered by the first energy source 14. The first discharge limit 72 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. The digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the first discharge limit 72 to optimize the time period during which the first energy source 14 powers the multiple circuits 22.

[0062] For example, refer to Figure 3 When the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the first discharge limit 72, multiple circuits in the first category 68 and the second category 70 are powered by the first energy source 14, a situation generally indicated by reference numeral 102. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the first discharge limit 72 and the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the second discharge limit 74, multiple circuits in the second category 70 are powered by the first energy source 14, a situation generally indicated by reference numeral 104.

[0063] Return to Figure 2 The second discharge limit 74 is calibrated by the user to a second calibration value in terms of energy, and is a limit used to compare the available discharge energy to determine whether multiple circuits in the second category 70 will be powered by the first category, or whether any of the energy source 14 or any of the multiple circuits 22 will not receive power from the first energy source 14. The second calibration value of the second discharge limit 74 is less than the first calibration value of the first discharge limit 72. The second discharge limit 74 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. The digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the second discharge limit 74 to optimize the time period during which the first energy source 14 powers the multiple circuits 22. In this example, the second discharge limit 74 will be the minimum discharge limit, meaning that when the available discharge energy 90 is less than or equal to the second discharge limit 74, the first energy source 14 will no longer power any of the multiple circuits 22. It should be understood that when there are more than the first category 68 and the second category 70, the second discharge limit 74 does not need to be the minimum discharge limit, which will be described in more detail below.

[0064] For example, refer to Figure 3When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the first discharge limit 72 and the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the second discharge limit 74, multiple circuits in the second category 70 are powered by the first energy source 14, a situation generally indicated by reference numeral 104. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the second discharge limit 74, multiple circuits 22 are not powered by the first energy source 14, a situation generally indicated by reference numeral 106.

[0065] return Figure 2 When there are multiple categories, the user sets multiple discharge limits, listed as DL1 to DLN, where the discharge limit DLN-1 is calibrated to a value greater than the value of the discharge limit DLN, and the number of discharge limits among the multiple discharge limits is one greater than the number of categories among the multiple categories. The discharge limit DLN will be the minimum discharge limit, meaning that when the available discharge energy 90 is less than or equal to the discharge limit DLN, the first energy source 14 will no longer supply power to any of the multiple circuits 22.

[0066] refer to Figure 3 When multiple categories and multiple discharge limits exist, and when the available discharge energy 90 is less than the discharge limit DLN-1 and the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the discharge limit DLN, multiple circuits in category CN are powered by the first energy source 14. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the discharge limit DLN, the first energy source 14 will no longer supply power to any of the multiple circuits 22.

[0067] In an example with multiple categories and multiple discharge limits, the available discharge energy 90 is determined by subtracting the sum of each of the multiple discharge limits from the current state of charge 98 and multiplying it by the energy cell capacity. The available discharge energy 90 is then recorded in memory 32.

[0068] return Figure 2 The Enable Cost Optimization Input 76 is used to transmit optimized data to the digital junction box 18. The Enable Cost Optimization Input 76 is a binary input with true calibration and false calibration; in true calibration, optimized data is transmitted to the digital junction box 18, while in false calibration, optimized data is not transmitted to the digital junction box 18. The optimized data includes energy cost 56, which will be described in more detail below.

[0069] The first drop limit 78 is calibrated by the user to a third calibration value regarding the state of charging, and is a limit used to compare the current state of charging 98 to determine whether multiple circuits in the first drop region and the second drop region are powered by the first energy source 14, or whether multiple circuits in the second drop region will be powered by the first energy source 14. The first drop limit 78 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. In one example, when the enable cost optimization input 76 is calibrated to true, the digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the first drop limit 78 to optimize cost savings of the system 10 based on the energy cost 56.

[0070] The first drop limit power 80 is calibrated by the user to a fourth calibration value in terms of power, and corresponds to the first drop limit 78 when determining whether a circuit in the plurality of circuits 22 will classify circuit-based power consumption into a first drop region or a second drop region. The first drop limit power 80 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. In one example, when the cost optimization enable input 76 is calibrated to true, the digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the first drop limit power 80 to optimize cost savings of the system 10 based on energy cost 56.

[0071] The second drop limit 82 is calibrated by the user to a fifth calibration value with respect to the state of charge, and is a limit used to compare the current state of charge 98 to determine whether any of the multiple circuits 22 in the second drop region will be powered by the first energy source 14, or whether any of the multiple circuits 22 will not receive power from the first energy source 14. The fifth calibration value of the second drop limit 82 is less than the third calibration limit of the first drop limit 78. The second drop limit 82 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. In one example, when the enable cost optimization input 76 is calibrated to true, the digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the second drop limit 82 to optimize cost savings of the system 10 based on the energy cost 56. In this example, the second drop limit 82 will be the minimum drop limit, meaning that when the current state of charge 98 is less than or equal to the second drop limit 82, the second energy source 16 will power multiple circuits 22. It should be understood that when there are more than the first drop region and the second drop region, the second drop limit 82 does not need to be the minimum drop limit, which will be described in more detail below.

[0072] The second drop limit power 84 is calibrated by the user to a sixth calibration value in terms of power, and corresponds to the second drop limit 82 when it is determined that multiple circuits in the second drop region will no longer receive power from the first energy source 14 and will be powered by the second energy source 16. The sixth calibration value of the second drop limit power 84 is greater than the fourth calibration value of the first drop limit power 80. The second drop limit power 84 is then transmitted to the digital junction box 18 and recorded in the memory 32. In one example, when the enable cost optimization input 76 is calibrated to true, the digital junction box 18 can use a machine learning algorithm stored in the processor 30 to modify the second drop limit power 84 to optimize the cost savings of the system 10 based on the energy cost 56.

[0073] Circuits 22 whose power consumption is less than the first descent limit power 80 are classified into the first descent region. Circuits 22 whose power consumption is greater than or equal to the first descent limit power 80 but less than the second descent limit power 84 are classified into the second descent region.

[0074] refer to Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the total battery capacity 114 of the first energy source 14 used by the digital junction box 18. The current state of charge 98 is relative to the minimum state of charge 116 and the maximum state of charge 118. The current state of charge 98 is the amount of charge maintained by the first energy source 14 at any given time, and therefore falls between the minimum state of charge 116 and the maximum state of charge 118. The total battery capacity 114 is the maximum state 118 of charge that the first energy source 14 can maintain.

[0075] When the current state of charge 98 is greater than the first fall limit 78, multiple circuits in the first and second fall regions are powered by the first energy source 14, regardless of the power consumption of individual circuits; this situation is generally indicated by reference numeral 120. When the current state of charge 98 is less than or equal to the first fall limit 78 and the current state of charge 98 is greater than the second fall limit 82, circuits in the multiple circuits 22 classified as the second fall region are powered by the first energy source 14, while circuits in the multiple circuits 22 classified as the first fall region are powered by the second energy source 16; this situation is generally indicated by reference numeral 122. When the current state of charge 98 is less than or equal to the second fall limit 82, none of the multiple circuits 22 are powered by the first energy source 14, because the multiple circuits 22 are powered by the second energy source 16; this situation is generally indicated by reference numeral 124.

[0076] return Figure 2The user will be able to set multiple descent limits, listed as DOL1 to DOLN, where descent limit DOLN-1 is calibrated to a value greater than descent limit DOLN, creating multiple descent regions, listed as DOA1 to DOAN. Each individual descent region within the multiple descent regions is confined between two consecutive descent limits among the multiple descent limits, meaning the number of descent regions within the multiple descent regions will be one less than the number of descent limits among the multiple descent limits. The user will set multiple descent limit powers, listed as DOLP1 to DOLPN, to correspond to the corresponding descent limits among the multiple descent limits. Circuits in the multiple circuits 22 that consume power greater than or equal to the descent limit power DOLPN-1 but less than DOLPN are classified into the descent region DOAN and powered by the first energy source 14. Circuits in the multiple circuits 22 that consume power less than the descent limit power DOLPN-1 are not classified into the descent region DOAN and are powered by the second energy source 16. The drop limit DOLN will be the minimum drop limit, which means that when the current state of charge 98 is less than or equal to the drop limit DOLN, the first energy source 14 will no longer supply power to any of the multiple circuits 22, and the multiple circuits 22 will be supplied by the second energy source 16.

[0077] refer to Figure 4 When multiple descent limits, multiple descent regions, and multiple descent regions exist, when the current state of charge 98 is less than the descent limit DOLN-1 and when the current state of charge 98 is greater than the descent limit DOLN, the circuits in the multiple circuits 22 classified into the descent region DOAN are powered by the first energy source 14. The circuits in the multiple circuits 22 not classified into the descent region DOAN are powered by the second energy source 16. When the current state of charge 98 is less than the descent limit DOLN, the first energy source 14 will no longer supply power to any of the multiple circuits 22, and the second energy source 16 will supply power to the multiple circuits 22.

[0078] refer to Figure 5 The accompanying drawing, generally illustrated by reference numeral 200, shows a flowchart of a method for determining which of a plurality of circuits 22 are powered by the first energy source 14 when the second energy source 16 is in a de-energized state 122, using the digital junction box 18. In this example, it is assumed that the V2H enable input 62, the weather service enable input 64, and the power outage notification enable input 66 are calibrated to true, the first discharge limit 72 and the second discharge limit 74 are calibrated by the user, and each individual circuit in the plurality of circuits 22 is classified into a first category 68 and a second category 70. Furthermore, when the digital junction box 18 is not receiving power from the second energy source 16, it is determined that the second energy source 16 is in a de-energized state 122.

[0079] Method 200 begins at step 202, determining a current charging state 98 based on a current charging state input 58 received from the first energy source 14. In one example, the current charging state 98 is determined by measuring the voltage of the first energy source 14. In another example, the current charging state 98 is determined by measuring the specific gravity of the first energy source 14 using its electrolyte. Method 200 then proceeds to step 204.

[0080] In step 204, method 200 uses digital junction box 18 to determine the maximum energy demand 124 of multiple circuits 22. In one example, the maximum energy demand 124 is determined to be the larger value between the total power consumption of the multiple circuits 68 in the first category 68 multiplied by the storm duration 48 and the total power consumption of the multiple circuits in the first category 68 multiplied by the outage duration 52. The maximum energy demand 124 is then recorded in memory 32. In another example, when both enabling outage notification 52 and enabling weather service input 64 are calibrated to false, the maximum energy demand 124 is determined to be the total power consumption of the multiple circuits in the first category 68 multiplied by a calibration time length based on the default backup duration. For example, the calibration time length is set to 72 hours. The maximum energy demand 124 is then recorded in memory 32. Method 200 then proceeds to step 206.

[0081] In step 206, method 200 uses digital junction box 18 to determine the minimum energy requirement 126 of multiple circuits 22. In one example, the minimum energy requirement 126 is determined to be the larger of the total power consumption of the multiple circuits belonging to category 70 multiplied by storm duration 48 and the total power consumption of the multiple circuits belonging to category 70 multiplied by outage duration 52. The minimum energy requirement 126 is then recorded in memory 32. In another example, when both enabling outage notification 52 and enabling weather service input 64 are calibrated to false, the minimum energy requirement 126 is determined to be the total power consumption of the multiple circuits belonging to category 70 multiplied by the calibration time length based on the default backup duration. The minimum energy requirement 126 is then recorded in memory 32. Method 200 then proceeds to step 208.

[0082] In step 208, method 200 determines the available discharge energy 90 of the first energy source 14. The available discharge energy 90 is as described above. Figure 3 It is determined as described in the text. Then method 200 proceeds to step 210.

[0083] In step 210, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with the maximum energy requirement 124 and the minimum energy requirement 126. When the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the maximum energy requirement 124, method 200 then proceeds to step 212.

[0084] In step 212, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the first category 68 and the second category 70.

[0085] Returning to step 210, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with the maximum energy requirement 124 and the minimum energy requirement 126. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the minimum energy requirement 126, method 200 then proceeds to step 214.

[0086] In step 214, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with a second discharge limit 74. When the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the second discharge limit 74, method 200 then proceeds to step 216. In another example, when multiple discharge limits exist, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with a discharge limit DLN. When the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the discharge limit DLN, method 200 then proceeds to step 216.

[0087] In step 216, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the second category 70. In another example, when multiple categories exist, method 200 ends at step 216, in which the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the CN category.

[0088] Returning to step 214, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with the second discharge limit 74. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the second discharge limit 74, method 200 then proceeds to step 218. In another example, when multiple discharge limits exist, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with the discharge limit DLN. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than or equal to the discharge limit DLN, method 200 then proceeds to step 218.

[0089] In step 218, the first energy source 14 stops supplying power to the plurality of circuits 22.

[0090] Returning to step 210, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with the maximum energy requirement 124 and the minimum energy requirement 126. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the minimum energy requirement 126 and the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the maximum energy requirement 124, method 200 then proceeds to step 220.

[0091] In step 220, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with a first discharge limit 72 and a second discharge limit 74. When the available discharge energy 90 is greater than the first discharge limit 72, method 200 then proceeds to step 222.

[0092] In step 222, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the first category 68 and the second category 70.

[0093] Returning to step 220, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with a first discharge limit 72 and a second discharge limit 74. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the first discharge limit 72 and greater than the second discharge limit 74, the method then proceeds to step 224. In another example, when multiple discharge limits exist, the method then proceeds to step 224 when the available discharge energy 90 is less than discharge limit DLN-1 and greater than discharge limit DLN.

[0094] In step 224, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the second category 70. In another example, when multiple categories exist, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the CN category.

[0095] Returning to step 220, method 200 compares the available discharge energy 90 with a first discharge limit 72 and a second discharge limit 74. When the available discharge energy 90 is less than the second discharge limit 74, method 200 then proceeds to step 226. In another example, when multiple discharge limits exist, method 200 then proceeds to step 226 when the available discharge energy 90 is less than the discharge limit DLN.

[0096] In step 226, the first energy source 14 stops supplying power to the plurality of circuits 22.

[0097] refer to Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for determining which of a plurality of circuits 22 are powered by the first energy source 14 and which of the plurality of circuits 22 are powered by the second energy source 16 when the second energy source 16 is in a powered-on state 128 (generally indicated by reference numeral 300). In this example, it is assumed that the enabled V2H input 62 is calibrated to true, the first drop limit 78, the second drop limit 82, the first drop limit power 80, and the second drop limit power 84 are calibrated by the user, and each individual circuit in the plurality of circuits 22 is classified into the first drop region and the second drop region. When the digital junction box 18 receives power from the second energy source 16, it is determined that the second energy source 16 is in a powered-on state 128.

[0098] Method 300 begins at step 302, in which a current state of charge 98 is determined based on the current state of charge input 58 from the first energy source 14. In one example, the current state of charge 98 is determined by measuring the voltage of the first energy source 14. In another example, the current state of charge 98 is determined by measuring the specific gravity of the first energy source 14 using its electrolyte. Method 300 then proceeds to step 304.

[0099] In step 304, method 300 compares the current charging state 98 with a first decline limit 78 and a second decline limit 82. If the current charging state 98 is greater than the first decline limit 78, method 300 then proceeds to step 306.

[0100] In step 306, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the first and second descent regions.

[0101] Returning to step 304, method 300 compares the current charging state 98 with a first fall limit 78 and a second fall limit 82. If the current charging state 98 is less than the first fall limit 78 and greater than the second fall limit 82, method 300 then proceeds to step 308. In another example, when multiple fall limits exist, if the current charging state 98 is less than fall limit DOLN-1 and greater than fall limit DOLN, the method then proceeds to step 308.

[0102] In step 308, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the second fall region, and the second energy source 16 is used to power multiple circuits in the first fall region. In another example, when multiple fall regions exist, the first energy source 14 is used to power multiple circuits in the DOAN fall region, and the second energy source 16 is used to power multiple circuits in the non-DOAN fall region.

[0103] Returning to step 304, method 300 compares the current charging state 98 with the first fall limit 78 and the second fall limit 82. When the current charging state 98 is less than or equal to the second fall limit 82, method 300 then proceeds to step 310. In another example, when multiple fall limits exist, method 300 compares the current charging state 98 with the fall limit DOLN. When the current charging state 98 is less than or equal to the fall limit DOLN, method 300 then proceeds to step 310.

[0104] In step 310, the second energy source 16 is used to power multiple circuits in the first and second droop regions. In another example, when multiple droop limits and multiple droop regions exist, the second energy source 16 is used to power multiple circuits in the multiple droop regions.

[0105] The digital junction box 18 disclosed herein offers several advantages. These advantages include: providing flexibility in configuring circuitry to meet specific needs (especially in the event of anticipated power outages or storms), eliminating the need for electricians to modify existing circuitry configurations, and maximizing cost efficiency in energy consumption.

[0106] The descriptions in this disclosure are merely exemplary in nature, and changes that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are intended to fall within its scope. Such changes should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for customizing circuit connections, using a digital junction box to customize which of a plurality of circuits are connected to one of a first energy source and a second energy source, the method comprising: Determine the state of the second energy source, wherein the state includes one of the following: energized state and de-energized state; When the state is in the non-powered state, it also includes: The energy source is identified as the first energy source; Determine the current charging status of the first energy source; Set at least a first discharge limit and a second discharge limit for the first energy source; The circuits among the plurality of circuits shall be classified into at least a first category and a second category; The maximum energy requirement is determined based on the energy used by the multiple circuits within a time period. The minimum energy requirement is determined based on the energy used by the multiple circuits in the first category during the time period. The available discharge energy is determined by multiplying the sum of the subtractions from each limit from the current state of charge by the energy battery capacity; and The available discharge energy is compared with the first discharge limit and the second discharge limit to determine which of the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source when the available discharge energy is less than the minimum energy requirement and when the available discharge energy is greater than the maximum energy requirement.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein setting the first discharge limit and the second discharge limit further includes: The first discharge limit is set as the first calibration value based on the discharge energy; The second discharge limit is set as the second calibration value based on the discharge energy. and The first calibration value is greater than the second calibration value.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein classifying the circuits among the plurality of circuits into at least a first category and a second category further comprises: The circuits among the plurality of circuits are classified into the first category based on the user's arbitrary preferences; as well as The circuits among the plurality of circuits are classified into the second category based on the user's arbitrary preferences.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the maximum energy requirement further comprises: Take the total power used by the plurality of circuits in the first category and multiply the total value by the time calibration value.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the maximum energy requirement further comprises: Take the larger value between the power used by the plurality of circuits in the first category multiplied by the storm duration and the power used by the plurality of circuits in the first category multiplied by the outage duration.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the minimum energy requirement further comprises: Take the total value of the power used by the plurality of circuits in the second category and multiply the total value by the time calibration value.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the minimum energy requirement further comprises: Take the larger value between the power used by the multiple circuits in the second category multiplied by the storm duration and the power used by the multiple circuits in the second category multiplied by the outage duration.

8. The method of claim 2, wherein determining which of the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source further comprises: When the available discharge energy is greater than the first discharge limit, power is supplied to the plurality of circuits in the first category and the second category.

9. The method of claim 2, wherein determining which of the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source further comprises: When the available discharge energy is less than the first discharge limit and the available discharge energy is greater than the second discharge limit, power is supplied to the plurality of circuits in the second category.

10. The method of claim 2, wherein determining which of the plurality of circuits will be powered by the first energy source further comprises: When the available discharge energy is greater than the maximum energy requirement, power is supplied to the plurality of circuits in the first category and the second category.

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