Power disconnection system and method

Abstract

Systems and methods described herein have been described for isolating a circuit breaker panel for a building from a grid circuit during an event that interrupts the grid circuit. In one aspect, an interrupt switch system includes a housing configured to mate with an electric meter socket on a first side and an electric meter on a second side, the housing having a power input from grid power and a power output to the circuit breaker panel, and an interrupt circuit disposed within the housing and configured to interrupt current from the power input to the power output.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to isolation point switches for building power connections, and more particularly to input power meter isolation / backup switches for residential, single-family home power connections. [Background technology]

[0002] Residential buildings are connected to the power grid via a power meter that measures the consumption of electricity by all electronic devices associated with or powered within the building. Some residential buildings may have additional power sources, such as backup generators, batteries, or solar arrays. For safety reasons, these additional power sources must be disconnected from the grid if the main power from the power grid is interrupted. For example, if there is a power outage on the grid, the additional power source should not be allowed to backfeed power into the grid. Doing so could injure workers repairing the power grid.

[0003] Various systems exist, such as automatic transfer switches, that automatically disconnect the power supply from the power grid to a residential building when the main power is interrupted. These systems can also allow an additional power source to be used to supplement or replace the power supply from the grid, or to provide backup power in the event of an interruption in the power supply from the grid. However, it can be difficult to power all the circuits in a residential building during such an interruption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] For summary purposes, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features have been described herein. It is to be understood that not all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment. Thus, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages without achieving all advantages that may be taught or suggested herein.

[0005] In one aspect, a disconnect switch system is disclosed that includes a housing configured to mate with an electric meter socket on a first side and an electric meter on a second side, the housing having a power input from grid power and a power output to a circuit breaker panel, and an interrupt circuit disposed within the housing and configured to interrupt current from the power input to the power output.

[0006] In some embodiments, the housing further comprises a first pair of conductors configured to electrically couple input terminals of the electric meter to respective terminals of the electric meter socket, a second pair of conductors configured to electrically couple output terminals of the electric meter to the power input, and a third pair of conductors configured to couple the power output to respective terminals of the electric meter socket electrically coupled to the circuit breaker panel. In some embodiments, the first pair of conductors, the second pair of conductors, and the third pair of conductors are at least partially disposed within the housing. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a communication circuit in data communication with the interruption circuit and configured to communicate one or more of a heartbeat signal and a status of the grid power to an external component. In some embodiments, the external component is a power backup system configured to supply power to the circuit breaker panel in a backup event. In some embodiments, the power backup system is one of a battery backup device and a solar power array. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a sensing circuit configured to sense a flow of power to the electric meter and a processor circuit configured to determine a status of the grid power based on the sensed flow of power. In some embodiments, the sensing circuit comprises at least one Rogowski coil configured to sense power flow through a busbar pair that supplies grid power to the electric meter. In some embodiments, the housing is an ANSI 2S compliant adapter configured to receive an ANSI 2S compliant electric meter on a second side and mate with an ANSI 2S compliant electric meter socket on a first side. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a manual disconnect switch configured to interrupt current flow from the power input to the power output when the manual disconnect switch is actuated.

[0007] In one aspect, a method for isolating a building circuit breaker panel from a grid circuit during an event that interrupts the grid circuit is disclosed. The method includes sensing current in the grid circuit and transitioning to backup power based on the detection of the interruption in the grid circuit. The transitioning includes disconnecting output terminals of an electric meter for the building from terminals of an electric meter socket through which the circuit breaker panel receives power from the grid circuit using a disconnect switch adapter, the disconnect switch adapter being attached to the electric meter socket and the electric meter being attached to the disconnect switch adapter, and activating a backup power source to energize at least a portion of the circuit breaker panel during the grid circuit interruption.

[0008] In some embodiments, sensing the current in the grid circuit includes sensing the current in the grid circuit using at least one Rogowski coil without physically contacting the grid circuit and without establishing communication with the grid circuit. In some embodiments, the method further includes continuously monitoring the grid circuit for an end of the interruption and connecting the circuit breaker panel to the grid circuit when a first power quality of the grid circuit and a second power quality of the backup power source are substantially similar. In some embodiments, the method further includes detecting an end of the interruption, detecting a first power quality parameter, detecting a second power quality parameter, communicating the first power quality parameter to the backup power source, and determining that the first power quality parameter and the second power quality parameter are substantially similar before connecting the grid circuit to the circuit breaker panel. In some embodiments, the method further includes detecting that the grid circuit is experiencing an interruption based on sensing the current in the grid circuit. In some embodiments, transitioning to backup power further includes verifying that a backup power source is available to power at least a portion of the circuit breaker panel and maintaining a heartbeat on the backup power source.

[0009] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. However, the disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular embodiment disclosed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] The aspects described herein, as well as other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology, will be described in connection with various implementations with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the illustrated implementations are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Throughout the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components unless the context dictates otherwise. It should be noted that the relative dimensions of the following figures may not be drawn to scale.

[0011] [Figure 1A] 1 is a perspective view of a combined power meter and disconnect switch system configured to enable automatic and dynamic transition between disconnected and connected modes;

[0012] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the isolation switch system of FIG. 1A.

[0013] [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is an exploded perspective view of the isolation switch system of FIG. 1B.

[0014] [Figure 2] 1B is a schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the combined power meter and disconnect switch system of FIG. 1A associated with a building circuit breaker panel.

[0015] [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of printed circuit board (PCB) components of the isolation switch system.

[0016] [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an exemplary network diagram of a network that allows communication between the disconnect switch system and other components of the building circuit.

[0017] [Figure 5] 4 is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary interactions between the disconnect switch system and other components of the building circuit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Most buildings, e.g., residential homes, detached houses, receive electricity from a utility or power supplier via a power grid that connects many homes to one or more power sources. Buildings can use electricity to power or charge various loads via building circuits, including lighting, environmental control devices, electric vehicles (EVs), appliances, and any other loads powered by electricity. A building circuit typically includes a circuit breaker panel that receives power at input terminals and distributes the received power to one or more subcircuits via circuit breakers. For example, each power outlet or light in a building may include its own subcircuit controlled by a respective circuit breaker. The circuit breaker panel typically receives power from the power grid via input terminals. These input terminals are connected to power meters used by utility companies to measure energy consumption (i.e., power used over a period of time) at or within a building. Power from the power meter is then distributed to each circuit in the building via the circuit breaker panel.

[0019] In some embodiments, a building that receives power through a power grid also has its own additional power source connected directly to the building. The additional power source may be a solar cell, battery, or generator that can function as a backup power source ("backup source") to power electrical loads in the building if power to the building is interrupted. The backup source and the power grid may be integrally connected to the building circuits such that either the backup source or the power grid, or both, can power the building circuits (and its loads) at any given moment, or such that neither the backup source nor the power grid can power the building circuits (and its loads) at any given moment.

[0020] However, integrating and connecting the power grid to the building circuit and backup source can be complicated and expensive, especially if the integration is a retrofit or modification after construction of the building is complete. For example, to prevent the backup source from feeding power into the power grid when the power grid is not providing power to the house, an isolation circuit must be placed between the backup source and the power grid. This provides a safety mechanism so that anyone accessing or working on the power grid when the power grid is down (i.e., not providing power) cannot be shocked by the power generated by the backup source. Furthermore, the isolation circuit allows current to flow bidirectionally between the power grid and the backup source as needed, allowing the building to source power from the backup source when available, supplement power from the backup source with power from the power grid when needed, and feed power from the backup source into the power grid when surplus power is available.

[0021] In some cases, the building circuit includes a gateway or similar device that provides electronic monitoring and / or communication between various components (e.g., backup sources, building circuits, the power grid, and building control systems). In some cases, the gateway is integrated with or includes an isolation circuit and / or provides an electrical isolation point to isolate or separate the building from the power grid. The isolation point must be electrically located between the power meter, where the power grid may be connected to the building circuit, and any loads or backup sources on the building circuit. Electric utilities may not allow connections to the power grid upstream of or before the power meter to prevent anyone from accessing free electricity. However, introducing an isolation circuit between the power meter and the building circuit can be costly and difficult to complete.

[0022] As mentioned above, introducing an isolation circuit between the power meter and a building's circuit breaker panel is difficult and expensive. For example, in many buildings, the power meter is mounted or integrated with the circuit breaker panel, which can minimize or eliminate the available space between the building's circuit breaker and the power meter where an isolation circuit could be introduced. For example, in buildings using meter-load center combo panels, which may account for approximately 70% of CA homes on average, 20 or more loads or subcircuits need to be relocated from the building's circuit breaker panel to a new subpanel containing separate backup loads. Relocating loads or subcircuits is a time-consuming and expensive process that increases direct installation costs and therefore the cost of installing or retrofitting backup sources into existing buildings.

[0023] One embodiment of the present invention is a power disconnection system that provides an isolation circuit disposed between an input connection from a power grid and an electric power meter. By disposing the isolation circuit between a building's electric power meter and the main electric power input, the system can disconnect the main electric power from the entire circuit breaker panel. In one embodiment, the power disconnection system is an adapter that plugs into an electric power meter socket on one side and accepts the electric power meter on the other side. Thus, installing the isolation circuit may simply require removing the electric power meter from the electric power meter box, inserting the adapter with the isolation circuit into the electric power meter socket, and then inserting the electric power meter into the isolation circuit. In addition to the installation savings, introducing the isolation circuit between the main electric power input and the electric power meter enables a variety of functions that were previously unavailable.

[0024] One such feature includes improved monitoring of the power grid, such as detecting when the power grid is experiencing an interruption or similar event, monitoring one or more parameters of power quality of the power grid, etc. Additional features include improved automatic and dynamic transitions between an isolated mode (where the building is isolated from the power grid and powered by a backup source) and a connected mode (where the building is connected to the power grid and powered by one or both of the power grid and a backup source). Further details of the components and operation of the isolation circuitry that result in the features and savings described herein are provided below.

[0025] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a combination power meter 105 and disconnect switch system 110 configured to enable automatic and dynamic transitions between an isolated mode and a connected mode. The components of the power meter 105 may be combined with a housing cover that encloses at least a portion of the components of the power meter 105, or the power meter 105 may be considered a component as described herein. In some embodiments, the power meter 105 comprises any residential or other power meter having a standard AC voltage (e.g., 240 / 120 split-phase VAC for residential buildings or 120 / 208 wye VAC for commercial buildings). The power meter 105 may be embodied in one or more shapes, sizes, or configurations for use in residential embodiments, commercial embodiments, etc. For example, the power meter 105 (including the housing) may conform to one or more ANSI-style meter socket standards, such as a 2S ANSI-style meter socket. The power meter 105 may enable a utility to measure the power or energy consumed in a building and, in some embodiments, communicate with the building circuit and devices connected thereto. The cutoff switch system 110 can conform to the same standards as the power meter 105 to function as an adapter and maintain interoperability with the power meter 105. For example, because the cutoff switch system 110 is disposed between the power meter 105 and a power meter socket (not shown in FIG. 1A ), the cutoff switch system 110 will have similar voltage signal requirements to maintain operability with the components of the power meter 105. Similarly, the cutoff switch system 110 will have similar physical parameters and form factor constraints, ensuring that the power meter 105 can be connected to the cutoff switch system 110 without (or with minimal) modification to the power meter 105, and that the cutoff switch system 110 connects to the power meter socket without modification to the power meter socket.

[0027] The shut-off switch system 110 may be further configured such that its dimensions, weight distribution, etc., prevent one or both of the interrupt switch system 110 and the power meter 105 from falling out of the power meter socket. In some embodiments, when the power meter 105 is covered by a housing cover on the shut-off switch system 110, the housing cover is removable.

[0028] The shutoff switch system 110 includes a removable terminal cover 115. The terminal cover 115 can protect the electrical communication connectors, manual override switch, and reset switch (none of which are shown in this figure) from environmental conditions and accidental contact and activation. The electrical communication connectors can allow the shutoff switch system 110 to communicate with one or more other devices within the building circuit and / or backup source. The manual override switch can allow a user or other entity to manually place the shutoff switch system 110 in an isolation mode or an isolation mode. The reset switch can allow a user or other entity to manually reset the shutoff switch system 110 from an isolation mode to a connected mode. These components are described in further detail below. Illustratively, the terminal cover 115 can be configured to facilitate connections with other components and secure the connectors to the shutoff switch system 110. The terminal cover 115 can also be configured to absorb forces on the connectors so as not to strain wires, conduits, etc.

[0029] The shutoff switch system 110 further comprises a plurality of prongs or conductors 120 that connect the shutoff switch system 110 to the power meter socket and transmit power from the power meter 105 to the building circuit through the shutoff switch system 110. Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 1A , a shutoff switch system 110 that complies with a 2S ANSI meter socket for residential voltages may include two pairs of prongs or conductors 120 (not all shown in FIG. 1A ). One pair may correspond to two input prongs 120 through which a split-phase voltage is received from the power grid, and the other pair may correspond to two output prongs 120 through which the split-phase voltage is provided to the building circuit. The pair of input prongs 120 may allow input power from the power grid to be supplied directly to the power meter 105, while the pair of output prongs 120 allows input power to flow from the power meter 105 through the shutoff switch system 110 to the building circuit (when the shutoff switch system 110 is in a connected mode, as described further below).

[0030] Further focusing on the isolation switch system 110, FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the isolation switch system 110 disclosed in FIG. 1A. The isolation switch system 110 is illustrated without the power meter 105, allowing the components of the isolation switch system 110 to be seen. As shown, at least in part, the isolation switch system 110 comprises a housing 150, a housing cover 170, and a receptacle for a prong from the power meter 105. Further details regarding these and other components of the isolation switch system 110 are shown in FIG. 1C and described in the corresponding description below. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the circular shape of the isolation switch system is complementary to a shape received by the power meter 105 or power meter socket. Accordingly, such shapes are exemplary in nature, and one or more aspects of the present application may be embodied in different form factors.

[0031] 1C is an exploded perspective view of the isolation switch system 110 of FIG. 1B. As shown, the isolation switch system 110 includes a housing 150, a reset switch 155, a manual override switch 160, a PCB 300, bus bars 165a-165b, bus bars 166a-166b, bus bars 167a-167b, a housing cover 170, and a terminal cover 115. Details regarding the structure and / or function of each of these components are described below.

[0032] The housing 150 provides a housing or portion of a housing for the components identified above with respect to the shutoff switch system 110. The housing 150 can be sized and shaped relative to a corresponding meter socket size and / or shape to maintain security and compatibility for use between the power meter 105 and the power meter socket. As shown, the housing 150 is generally round or circular in shape with a diameter that generally matches a 2S ANSI meter socket for residential building applications. The housing 150 can include meter collars 152a-152b that include various sizes, shapes, configurations, lips, etc. The meter collars 152a-152b can ensure a secure, waterproof and dustproof, or fully waterproof and dustproof connection between the power meter 105 and the housing 150 of the shutoff switch system 110 (e.g., via the meter collar 152a) and between the housing 150 and the power meter socket (e.g., via the meter collar 152b). In some embodiments, the meter collars 152a-152b are separate components from the housing 150 and are used to attach / couple the power meter 105 to the housing 150 and / or to attach / couple the housing 150 to a power meter socket.

[0033] The PCB 300 includes circuitry and corresponding electronic components that provide the various functions of the isolation switch system 110 described herein. The components of the PCB 300 enable the isolation switch system 110 to disconnect or interrupt the current from the power meter 105 to a building's circuit breaker panel, for example, via relays, contactors, circuit breakers, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "relays"). When the relay is in an "open" condition or state, the relay can disconnect the power meter 105 from the building's circuit breaker. When the relay is in a "closed" condition or state, the relay can connect the power meter 105 to the building circuit. Additionally, the components of the PCB 300 provide input / output signals that enable the isolation switch system 110 to communicate with one or more components of the building circuit or backup source. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the isolation switch system 110 can communicate via one or both of a wired or wireless connection (e.g., via a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection, an Ethernet connection, an RS-485 connection, a controller area network (CAN) bus connection, etc.). Further details of PCB 300 are described below with respect to Figure 3. In some embodiments, additional components may be included as part of the components of PCB 300. For example, one or more fans may be included at various locations within the PCB, such as adjacent the bus bars, to provide additional cooling / heat dissipation functionality.

[0034] Components of PCB 300 can interface with the reset switch 155 and / or manual override switch 160 described above. For example, when activated, manual override switch 160 can cause the shutoff switch system 110 to interrupt current from the power meter 105 to the building circuit, i.e., open the relay. For example, a user or homeowner may want to manually switch from a connected mode to an isolated mode, e.g., during a high-cost period of consuming energy from the power grid or when nuisance weather or an event that could cause an interruption in power supply to the building system is anticipated. By activating manual override switch 160, the shutoff switch system 110 can open the relay. Reset switch 155 can reset activation of the manual override switch 160 by a user or homeowner, thereby allowing the relay to close when all conditions support closure of the relay (e.g., the power grid is active and provides similar or matching regulated power). Thus, when the manual override switch 160 transitions the isolation switch system 110 from the connected mode to the isolated mode, activation of the reset switch 155 can cause the isolation switch system 110 to initiate the transition from the isolated mode to the connected mode. However, the reset switch 155 may be subordinate to the automated dynamic function of the isolation switch circuit 110. For example, activation of the reset switch 155 may have no effect if the isolation switch circuit 110 is in the isolated mode from its monitoring of the power grid and corresponding inputs (thereby disconnecting or interrupting current from the power meter 105 to the building circuits). Thus, the reset switch 155 can cause the isolation switch system 110 to initiate the transition from the isolated mode to the connected mode only when the isolation switch system 110 is in the isolated mode due to activation of the manual override switch 160.

[0035] As mentioned above, terminal cover 115 may cover manual override switch 160 and reset switch 155 to protect them from accidental actuation. Terminal cover 115 may also protect connector 350, which connects PCB 300 to one or more of the building circuit and backup source. Terminal cover 115 may include (e.g., threaded) connections through which one or more conductors or cables may be fed, for example, to terminate at connector 350 on PCB 300.

[0036] The bus bars 165a-165b, as described above, directly connect the input terminals of the power meter 105 to corresponding terminals of the power meter socket that connects to the power grid. By providing this directional connection, the bus bars 165a-165b ensure that there is no electrical connection between the power meter and the power grid that would allow access to unmetered power, for example, through the isolation switch system 110. The bus bars 165a-165b pass through corresponding holes or slots 169a-169b in the PCB 300 and terminate in corresponding prongs 120 that are inserted into respective receptacles of the power meter socket (not shown). The bus bars 165a-165b may be insulated to ensure that no electrical connection is made to the bus bars 165a-165b while the bus bars 165a-165b pass through the isolation switch system 110.

[0037] Bus bars 166a-166b carry power from the power meter 105 to the PCB 300 and other components of the shutoff switch system 110, and bus bars 167a-167b carry power from the shutoff switch system 110 to the power meter socket and building circuits, with bus bars 167a-167b terminating in respective prongs 120 that terminate in corresponding receptacles on the power meter socket.

[0038] The housing cover 170 can create a physical barrier between the power meter 105 and the components of the shut-off switch system 110. For example, the housing cover 170 can provide a safety benefit by reducing accidental contact with the bus bars 165a-165b in the housing 150 and / or can prevent the prongs of the power meter 105 (which contact the bus bars 165a-165b and the bus bars 167a-167b) from contacting and / or damaging any of the components of the shut-off switch system 110 and / or the PCB 300.

[0039] Further details regarding the operation and features of the shutoff switch system 110 are provided in connection with FIG. 3 below. Meanwhile, FIG. 2 illustrates how the power meter 105 and shutoff switch system 110 are integrated with a building's circuit breaker panel, the power grid, a backup source, and building circuits. More specifically, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the combination of the power meter 105 and shutoff switch system 110 of FIG. 1A in association with a building's circuit breaker panel 210. As shown, the circuit breaker panel 210 is integrated with a power meter socket 205 that includes receptacles 202a-202b and 203a-203b for the prongs of the power meter 105 and / or the prongs 120 of the shutoff switch system 110. In some embodiments, receptacles 202a-202b receive prongs 120 of bus bars 165a-165b that provide power from the power grid to power meter 105, and receptacles 203a-203b receive prongs 120 of bus bars 167a-167b that provide power from disconnect switch system 110 to circuit breaker panel 210. Power meter socket 205 can receive power from connection 201 with the power grid for delivery to power meter 105. As shown in FIG. 2 , power meter socket 205 can further incorporate some spring contacts 206 to facilitate maintaining the electrical connection.

[0040] The circuit breaker panel 210 may include a main circuit breaker 215 and several circuit breakers for subcircuits of the building circuit (not shown in this view). Power from the power meter socket 205 passes through the main circuit breaker 215 to the subcircuits of the building circuit.

[0041] When an entity is installing a backup source 225 (e.g., solar cells, batteries, or a fossil fuel-based generator) from an existing building, the entity can remove the power meter 105 from the power meter socket 205. To implement the features and advantages described herein, the entity can install the cutoff switch system 110 in the power meter socket 205 (so that the prongs 120 terminate in the receptacles 202a-202b and 203a-203b) and then install the power meter 105 in the cutoff switch system 110 (so that the prongs of the power meter 105 terminate in the receptacles of the bus bars 165a-165b and 166a-166b). By installing the cutoff switch system 110 between the power meter 105 and the power meter socket 205, the cutoff switch system 110 enables isolation of the building circuit (via the circuit breaker panel 210), monitoring of the power grid via the connection 201, and communication between the components of the building circuit and the backup source. Furthermore, because an isolation point exists upstream of circuit breaker panel 210 that allows the building circuit to be isolated from the power grid, no additional load or backup panel is required. This allows an entity to attach backup source 225 directly to circuit breaker panel 210. In some embodiments, the entity installs optional generating panel 220 to provide convenient or code-required local interruption access to the backup source, but does not need to relocate the load or subcircuit from circuit breaker panel 210 to generating panel 220 or any other subpanel. Although not shown in this figure, once the entity connects backup source 225 to circuit breaker panel 210, backup source 225 can supply power to any of the subcircuits of the building circuit or to the power grid.

[0042] Details of the functions and features of the components of PCB 300 relative to isolation switch system 110, the power grid, and the backup source are provided with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the components of printed circuit board (PCB) 300 of isolation switch system 110. PCB 300 includes various components mounted or secured thereon. For example, PCB 300 includes energy meter 305, sensing coil 307, processor circuit 310, relay driver circuit 315, relay 317, voltage regulator 320, voltage converter 325, and one or more of Wi-Fi communication module 330, RS-485 communication module 335, CAN bus communication module 340, and power line communication modem 345. In some embodiments, PCB 300 includes RS-485 communication module 335 or CAN bus communication module 340. Thus, PCB 300 may include a connector 350 that connects to PCB 300 and enables communication between PCB 300 (and thus, isolation switch system 110) and backup supply 225 or building circuits. For example, connector 350 connects to a cable that passes through a connection in terminal cover 115 and connects to an external device (e.g., the backup source and / or building circuits).

[0043] The energy meter 305 can sense or monitor conditions on the power grid using sensing coils 307. For example, the sensing coils 307 can include two sensing coils 307a and 307b, each surrounding one of the slots 169a-169b through which the bus bars 165a-165b pass. The sensing coils 307a-307b can inductively measure one or more parameters of a signal passing through the bus bars 165a-165b. For example, the sensing coils 307a-307b measure the current flowing through the bus bars 165a-165b, respectively, and the voltages induced in the sensing coils 307a-307b are proportional to the rate of change of the current in the bus bars 165a-165b, respectively. The sensing coils 307a-307b can include Rogowski coils or other inductive sensing coils. In some embodiments, the energy meter 305 receives induced voltages from the sensing coils 307a-307b and uses these voltages to determine the state of the power grid (e.g., whether the power grid is providing power or whether an interruption has occurred). In some embodiments, the combination of the sensing coils 307a-307b and the energy meter 305 can read one or more other parameters (other than current) of the signal passing through the bus bars 165a-165b, such as parameters that determine the quality of the power provided by the power grid. In some embodiments, the energy meter 305 can derive power from the power at the output of the power meter 105. The energy meter 305 can monitor that power to identify one or more parameters of the power grid's quality. In some embodiments, although not explicitly shown in FIG. 3 , the energy meter 305 can sense the quality and other characteristics of the power on the building circuit side of the power meter 105 (e.g., via the bus bars 166a-166b and / or the bus bars 167a-167b). The energy meter 305 may monitor the power to identify one or more parameters of the quality of the power from the backup source or building circuit. In some embodiments, the information identified by the energy meter 305 may be communicated to the processor circuit 310.

[0044] The processor circuit 310 can receive various information from components of the shutoff switch system 110 and external components (e.g., backup sources and / or building circuits). For example, the processor circuit 310 manages communications with the backup sources and / or building circuits via a Wi-Fi module 330, an RS-485 module 335, a CAN bus module 340, or a PLC modem 345. The processor circuit 310 performs the following functions to verify that communications between the shutoff switch system 110 and the backup sources 325 and / or building circuits are still active: A heartbeat signal with the backup source 325 and / or building circuitry may be maintained.

[0045] Additionally, the processor circuit 310 controls the operation of the relay driver 315, and therefore the relay 317, based on voltage sensing information from the connections to the bus bars 166a-166b, information identified by the energy meter 305, and information received from the Wi-Fi module 330, the RS-485 module 335, the CAN bus module 340, and / or the PLC modem 345. For example, the processor circuit 310 may determine that the power grid is not providing power due to monitoring information received from the energy meter 305 and the sensing circuit 307. Based on this determination, the processor circuit 310 may place the relay 317 in an open state, for example, by sending an “open” signal or command to the relay driver 315. Prior to or simultaneously with opening the relay 317 via the relay driver 315, the processor circuit 310 may communicate with the backup source to signal a transition between the connected mode and the isolated mode. In some embodiments, the processor circuit 310 may send a “wake-up” or similar signal to the backup source to enable the backup source to prepare for an increased load. In some embodiments, the transition of the building circuit may be seamless or invisible to the building circuit as the processor circuit 310 switches from the connected mode to the isolated mode, especially if the backup source is capable of supporting the entire building circuit. As noted above, the open signal may be used to disconnect the power grid from the building circuit during conditions in which the power grid is not supplying power for various reasons, including, for example, the safety reasons described above.

[0046] Additionally, the processor circuit 310 can manage and control the transition from the isolated mode to the connected mode. The processor circuit 310 can determine to transition from the isolated mode to the connected mode based on detecting that the power grid is again providing power. The processor circuit 310 can also consider signals from the backup source 325 and / or the building circuit. For example, if the power grid is providing power and the backup source 325 is running out of power, the processor circuit 310 can immediately transition to the connected mode. If the power grid is providing power and the backup source 325 is requiring a discharge below a specified threshold, the processor circuit 310 can delay the transition to the connected mode until the power of the backup source 325 falls below the specified threshold. In some embodiments, whenever the processor circuit 310 detects that the power grid is providing power, the processor circuit 310 can immediately transition to the connected mode, regardless of the state of the power from the power grid compared to the state of the power of the backup source. In some embodiments, the processor circuit 310 monitors the power grid and the building circuit to ensure that the power grid power and the building circuit power (e.g., from a backup source) are of the same or similar quality before closing the relay 317. For example, the processor circuit 310 may compare the power from the power grid with the power from the backup source and close the relay 317 only if the power conditions on both sides of the relay 317 match or substantially match.

[0047] When closing the relay 317, the processor circuit 310 can communicate a signal or command to the relay driver 315 to close the relay 317. When opening the relay 317, the processor circuit 310 can communicate a signal or command to the relay driver 315 to open the relay 317. In some embodiments, the processor circuit 310 can store the communicated signal or command in a data store or memory track the state of the relay 317 at a given time. Thus, the processor circuit 310 controls the opening and closing of the relay 317 via the relay driver 315 based on an analysis of inputs from the power grid, backup sources, and building circuits, and stores a history of the mode in which the isolation switch system 110 is operating at a given moment or point in time.

[0048] The Wi-Fi module 330 enables the processor circuit 310, and therefore the isolation switch system 110, to communicate with other devices in or supporting the building. For example, the Wi-Fi module 330 may enable the isolation switch system 110 to wirelessly communicate with other devices, thereby eliminating the need for electrical connections between the isolation switch system 110 and backup sources or building systems other than the busbars 167a-167b. The Wi-Fi module 330 may communicate via any wireless communication standard, for example, one or more IEEE 802.11 standards. In some embodiments, the Wi-Fi module 330 may incorporate an additional power component, such as an independent battery, that facilitates communication independent of any power status / input of the other components of the isolation switch system 110.

[0049] The RS-485 module 335 enables the processor circuit 310, and therefore the isolation switch system 110, to communicate with other devices in or supporting the building. For example, the RS-485 module 335 may enable the isolation switch system 110 to communicate with other devices over a wired medium according to the RS-485 standard. The RS-485 standard is commonly used for serial communications and is often found in electrically noisy environments.

[0050] The CAN bus module 340 enables the processor circuit 310, and therefore the isolation switch system 110, to communicate with other devices within or supporting the building. For example, the CAN bus module 340 may enable the isolation switch system 110 to communicate with other devices over a wired CAN bus medium. The CAN bus medium is often used in automotive, automation, and similar environments and allows message-based communication between nodes or devices within a network. The CAN bus module 340 is a multi-master serial bus standard that can facilitate fault-tolerant communication and operates well in electrically noisy environments, such as areas close to the power grid connection 201 and the circuit breaker panel 210.

[0051] In some embodiments, CAN bus module 340 and / or RS-485 module 335 are connected to a backup source and / or building circuit via connector 350. For example, connector 350 may comprise a six-pin connector that provides a 12V connection, a ground connection, and a pair of connections for each of CAN bus module 340 and RS-485 module 335. In some embodiments, connector 350 provides more than six pins, e.g., seven, eight, ten, twelve, etc.

[0052] The PLC modem 345 can enable communication from the isolation switch system 110 to downstream components (and possibly even upstream components) via the power lines. For example, the PLC modem 345 can communicate via bus bars 167a-167b to a building circuit or other downstream devices connected to the power lines downstream of the power meter socket 205, or via bus bars 166a-166b to the power meter 105 and potentially the power grid upstream of the power meter socket 205. Using the PLC modem 345, the isolation switch system 110 can communicate with other devices connected to the building circuit without requiring additional conductors for wired communication. As mentioned above, one or more fans 360 can be connected to the MCU 310 to facilitate heat dissipation.

[0053] The isolation switch system 110 communicates with the building circuit and the backup source 325, as described above. FIG. 4 is an example network diagram 400 of a network 400 enabling communication between the isolation switch system 110 and other components of the building circuit. The network 405 may include any of a Wi-Fi network, an RS-485 network with which the RS-485 module 330 communicates, a CAN bus network with which the CAN bus module 335 communicates, or a PLC network with which the PLC module 345 communicates. The network diagram shows the network 400 connecting the isolation switch system 110 to the backup source 325. As described further herein, this connection allows the isolation switch system 110 to inform the backup source 325 of a transition from a connected mode to an isolated mode. Similarly, this connection allows the isolation switch system 110 to communicate with the backup source 325 when the isolation switch system 110 is ready to switch from an isolated mode to a connected mode. When the isolation switch system 110 is commanding a switch from the isolated mode to the connected mode, the isolation switch system 110 may also communicate parameters of the power supplied by the power grid. For example, the isolation switch system 110 may indicate a parameter or status of the power of the power grid to the backup source as it prepares to transition to the connected mode. Additionally, the isolation switch system 110 may receive a communication from the backup source 325, such as a communication indicating that the backup source 325 is active and ready to supply power to the building circuit during the isolated mode. In some embodiments, the isolation switch system 110 may communicate information regarding the status of one or more of the isolation switch system 110 (e.g., whether it is in the isolated mode or the connected mode), the backup source 325 (e.g., whether the backup source 325 is operable in the isolated mode, whether it is ready to supply power, etc.), and the power grid (e.g., whether it is supplying power, etc.) to one or more of the external computing device 410, the controller 415, and the power grid 420.In some embodiments, the external computing device 410 includes a user device of an entity associated with the building (e.g., a resident, a tenant, etc.). The external computing device 410 may allow a user to monitor the status of the shutoff switch system 110, the backup source 325, and the power grid 420. In some embodiments, the user may further control one or more of the shutoff switch system 110 and the backup source 325 via the external computing device 410. The controller 415 may comprise a controller or similar component of the building circuitry. For example, the controller 415 may comprise a gateway or similar component that can monitor, manage, or operate one or more components of the building circuitry by the external computing device 410. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 415, the shutoff switch system 110, and / or the backup source 325 may communicate directly or indirectly to communicate the status of the shutoff switch system 110, the backup source 325, and / or the building circuitry to each other. For example, controller 415 may communicate predicted changes in demand to backup source 325 and / or isolating switch system 110 to control when isolating switch system 110 switches modes (e.g., to ensure that enough power is available to accommodate changes in load or to be able to disconnect from the power grid when demand is low enough). In some embodiments, power grid 420 represents a utility power grid, and communications to power grid 420 may be regarding, among other things, power conditions or the status of the power supply.

[0054] As described above, network 400 can enable communication and interaction between shutoff switch system 110, the building circuit, and backup source 325. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 illustrating exemplary interactions between shutoff switch system 110 and other components of the building circuit. This flow diagram includes interactions or communications between shutoff switch system 110 and backup source 325. These communications may occur through one of the communication modules described herein (e.g., Wi-Fi module 330, RS-485 module 335, CAN bus module 340, and PLC modem 345). In some embodiments, the communications described below may occur between one or more other intermediate components, but are not shown as such herein.

[0055] The isolation switch system 110 and the backup source 325 (and any other components of the network 400) can maintain a heartbeat 501 to ensure that communication between the components is consistent and continuous. As described above, the isolation switch system 110 detects at 502 that the power grid is experiencing an interruption and / or is not providing power to the building. The detection is based on a lack of current through the bus bars 165a-165b, or an induced voltage induced in response to communication with the power grid, or any similar method. Based on this detection, the isolation switch system 110 can send an isolation mode request to the backup source 325 at 504. In some embodiments, the communication at 504 may be via one or more of the Wi-Fi module 330, the RS-485 module 335, the CAN bus module 340, and the PLC modem 345. 5, based on the isolation mode request 504, the backup source 325 may begin supplying power to the building circuits if the backup source was not previously supplying power, or may continue supplying power if it was already supplying power. Once the backup source 325 receives the isolation mode request at 504, the backup source 325 may begin supplying power to the building circuits.

[0056] The isolation switch system 110 can open 506 the relay 317 via the relay driver 315, thereby interrupting the connection between the energy meter and the building circuit and enabling the isolation mode. After opening the relay 317, the isolation switch system 110 can determine 508 that the power grid 420 is again providing power. This can be based on detecting an induced voltage in the energy meter 305 based on the sensing coils 307a-307b, as described above, or on communication from the power grid or another means. In response, the isolation switch system 110 can communicate 510 a connection mode request to the backup source 325. As described above, this communication can be directly or indirectly through another component, such as via one or more of the Wi-Fi module 330, the RS-485 module 335, the CAN bus module 340, and the PLC modem 345. In some embodiments, following the connected mode request 510, the isolation switch system 110 and the backup source 325 can exchange data to define quality characteristics of the power grid power and the backup source power. The isolation switch system 110 can measure the quality characteristics of the power grid power and the backup source power and communicate the difference to the backup source 325 requesting that its power be adjusted to match or substantially match the power grid power. The isolation switch system 110 can determine 514 whether the qualities match. In some embodiments, the energy meter 305 can sense components on the line side of the relay 317 (i.e., the bus bars 165a-165b and / or the bus bars 166a-166b of the power meter 105) and isolate sensing components on the load side of the relay 317 (i.e., the power meter socket 305 from the bus bars 167a-167b). If the isolation switch system 110 determines that the quality matches and that the power grid 420 is still providing power, the isolation switch system 110 can close the relay 317 via the relay driver 315. Thus, the power grid 420 and / or the backup source 325 can provide power to the building circuits.

[0057] Each of the processes, methods, and algorithms described in the preceding sections may be embodied in code modules executed by one or more computer systems or computer processors, including computer hardware, and may be fully or partially automated. The code modules may be stored on any type of non-transitory computer-readable medium or computer storage device, such as a hard drive, solid-state memory, or optical disk. The systems and modules may also be transmitted as data signals generated over various computer-readable transmission media, including wireless and wired / cable-based media, (e.g., as part of a carrier wave or other analog or digital propagated signal), and may take various forms (e.g., as part of a single or multiplexed analog signal, or as multiple discrete digital packets or frames). The processes and algorithms may be implemented partially or entirely in application-specific circuitry. The results of the disclosed processes and process steps may be stored, persistently or otherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage, such as, for example, volatile or non-volatile storage.

[0058] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described below in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, software stored on a computer-readable medium and executable by a hardware processor, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0059] The various illustrative logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed using a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0060] The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor, such that the processor reads information from, and writes information to, the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC.

[0061] While the foregoing detailed description has illustrated, described, and pointed out novel features of the development as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the illustrated devices or processes may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the development. It will be recognized that the development may be embodied in a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits described herein, since some features may be used or practiced separately from other features. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will recognize that each of these subsystems may be interconnected and controllably connected using a variety of techniques and hardware, and that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular connection method or connection hardware.

[0063] The technology is operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments, and / or configurations that may be suitable for use with the present invention include, but are not limited to, personal computers, server computers, handheld or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, microcontrollers or microcontroller-based systems, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, etc.

[0064] As used herein, instructions refer to computer-implemented steps for processing information within a system. Instructions may be implemented in software, firmware, or hardware and include any type of programmed step performed by a component of the system.

[0065] The microprocessor is a Pentium (登録商標)Processor, Pentium (登録商標) Pro processor, 8051 processor, MIPS (登録商標) Processor, Power PC (登録商標) Processor, or Alpha (登録商標) The microprocessor may be any conventional general-purpose single-chip or multi-chip microprocessor, such as a processor. Additionally, the microprocessor may be any conventional special-purpose microprocessor, such as a digital signal processor or a graphics processor. Microprocessors typically have conventional address lines, conventional data lines, and one or more conventional control lines.

[0066] The system is Linux (登録商標) , UNIX (登録商標) , MacOS (登録商標) or Microsoft Windows (登録商標) It can be used in conjunction with various operating systems such as

[0067] System control can be written in any conventional programming language, such as C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, .NET (e.g., C#), or Java, and run under a conventional operating system. C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, Java, and FORTRAN are industry-standard programming languages ​​for which many commercial compilers are available to create executable code. System control can also be written using an interpreted language, such as Perl, Python, or Ruby. Other languages, such as PHP and JavaScript, can also be used.

[0068] The foregoing description details specific embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. However, it will be understood that no matter how detailed the foregoing may be, the systems, devices, and methods may be implemented in many ways. Also, as noted above, the use of a particular term when describing a particular feature or aspect of the invention should not be construed as meaning that the term has been redefined herein to be limited to including any particular characteristic of the feature or aspect of the technology with which it is associated.

[0069] Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of the embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also understand that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments, and that one or more parts from an illustrated embodiment may be included with other illustrated embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and / or shown in the drawings may be combined, interchanged, or excluded from other embodiments.

[0070] With respect to the use of virtually any plural and / or singular term herein, those skilled in the art can convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural as appropriate to the context and / or application. Various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for clarity.

[0071] As used herein, the term "comprising" is synonymous with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0072] All numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about." Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and appended claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

[0073] The above description discloses some methods and materials of the present development. This development is susceptible to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as to changes in the manufacturing methods and equipment. Such modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of this disclosure or practice of the development disclosed herein. It is therefore not intended that this development be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein, but rather that it is intended to cover all modifications and alternatives that fall within the true scope and spirit of the development as embodied in the appended claims.

[0074] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in some embodiments, the processes described in the following documents may be performed on a computer network having a central server with a processor, data storage such as a database and memory, and communication capabilities that allow wired or wireless communication with various portions of the network, including terminals and any other desired network access points or means.

Claims

1. 1. A disconnect switch system comprising: an electricity meter socket electrically coupled to a circuit breaker panel on a first side and a housing configured to mate with an electricity meter on a second side, the housing having a power input from grid power and a power output to the circuit breaker panel; an interruption circuit disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing and configured to interrupt current flow from the power input to the power output; a first pair of conductors passing through the PCB to electrically couple the electricity meter to the electricity meter socket; a second pair of conductors terminating on the PCB to electrically couple the electricity meter to the interrupt circuit; A disconnect switch system comprising:

2. further comprising a third pair of conductors terminating on the PCB to electrically couple the interrupt circuit to the electricity meter socket; the first pair of conductors is configured to electrically couple input terminals of the electricity meter to respective terminals of the electricity meter socket; the second pair of conductors is configured to electrically couple an output terminal of the electricity meter to the interruption circuit; the third pair of conductors is configured to couple the interrupting circuit to respective terminals of the electricity meter socket electrically coupled to the circuit breaker panel; The system of claim 1 , wherein the first conductor pair comprises a first conductor prong pair and the third conductor pair comprises a third conductor prong pair.

3. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a communications circuit in data communication with the interruption circuit and configured to communicate one or more of a heartbeat signal and a status of the grid power to an external component.

4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the external component is a power backup system configured to provide power to the circuit breaker panel in a backup event.

5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the power backup system is one of a battery backup device and a solar power array.

6. a sensing circuit configured to sense a flow of power to the electricity meter; a processor circuit configured to determine a state of the grid power based on the sensed power flow; The system of claim 3 further comprising:

7. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the sensing circuitry comprises at least one Rogowski coil configured to sense power flow through a busbar pair that supplies the grid power to the electric meter.

8. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to mate with the electric meter socket of a circuit breaker panel on a first side via an ANSI 2S socket and to mate with the electric meter on a second side via an ANSI 2S socket.

9. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the interruption circuit comprises a relay switch configured to create an open circuit between the power input and the power output, the relay switch being controllable by one of a processor circuit and a manual disconnect switch.

10. 1. A method of isolating a building circuit breaker panel from a grid circuit during an event that interrupts the grid circuit, comprising: sensing current in the grid circuit; transitioning to backup power based on detecting an interruption in the grid circuit, said transitioning comprising: using a disconnect switch adapter to disconnect an output terminal of an electric meter for the building from an electric meter socket terminal through which the circuit breaker panel receives power from the grid circuit, wherein the disconnect switch adapter is attached to the electric meter socket via a first pair of prongs and a second pair of prongs, and the electric meter is attached to the disconnect switch adapter; and activating a backup power source to power at least a portion of the circuit breaker panel during an interruption of the grid circuit; The shut-off switch adapter includes: a housing having a power input from grid power and a power output to said circuit breaker panel; an interruption circuit disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing and configured to interrupt current flow from the power input to the power output; a first pair of conductors passing through the PCB to electrically couple the electricity meter to the electricity meter socket; a second pair of conductors terminating on the PCB to electrically couple the electricity meter to the interrupt circuit.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein sensing current in the grid circuit comprises sensing current in the grid circuit with at least one Rogowski coil without physically contacting and without establishing communication with the grid circuit.

12. continuously monitoring the grid circuit for termination of the interruption; further comprising connecting the circuit breaker panel to the grid circuit when a first power quality of the grid circuit and a second power quality of the backup power source are similar. The method of claim 10.

13. detecting an end of the interruption; detecting the first power quality parameter; detecting the second power quality parameter; communicating the first power quality parameter to the backup power source; determining that the first power quality parameter and the second power quality parameter are similar before connecting the grid circuit to the circuit breaker panel; The method of claim 12 further comprising:

14. The method of claim 10 , further comprising detecting that the grid circuit is experiencing an interruption based on sensing current in the grid circuit.

15. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein transitioning to backup power further comprises verifying that the backup power source is available to power at least the portion of the circuit breaker panel; and maintaining a heartbeat on the backup power source.

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