Systems and methods for remote allocation of USB power using power line communication

Abstract

Systems and methods for power allocation and management within a vehicle are described. A power supply can provide power to one or more controllers, which in turn provides power to one or more power outlets. The power supply can monitor current measurements from power being supplied to the controllers to ensure that the collective power provided does not exceed a power output limit of the power supply. As devices are connected to and removed from the power outlets, the power supply can determine whether to change power allotted to one or more of the power outlets. If needed, a control signal can be transmitted over a power line to the controller to cause the controller to reduce or increase an amount of power provided to a power outlet.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTE ALLOCATION OF USB POWER USING POWER LINE COMMUNICATIONField of the Invention

[0001] The field of the invention is power allocation and management, and, in particular, power allocation and management in vehicles.Background

[0002] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] In vehicles, and aircraft especially, there is typically a limited power supply which must be shared among a plurality of devices in the vehicle. Aircraft typically receive an alternating current (AC) power from one or more engines, which are limited in capacity. This AC power can be converted as needed to different frequencies and / or to direct current (DC) power.

[0004] Because of the limited power supply, the vehicle requires that power is appropriately allocated to variety of components and power outlets throughout the vehicle, while preventing excessive demand for power from overwhelming the system. With the increased demand for power by passengers to charge their portable electronic devices, power management systems have become more and more important. This is especially true as the location and number of portable electronic devices will vary over time, requiring power to be reallocated to adjust to the different demands on the system.

[0005] Some power management systems function to inhibit power to a power outlet or port, such as by disabling the power supply to the power outlet or port when needed. While effective, such solution can irritate passengers.

[0006] For universal serial bus (USB) ports which can be used to charge passenger equipment, for example, existing solutions generally focus on one-to-one management of USB power. USB controllers that can be used to negotiate the amount of power to each user are generally not co-located with the power supply. Thus, the power supply and controllers must communicate to share power among the different USB ports.

[0007] Other systems for managing power utilize a separate communication channel to communicate between the power supply and power controllers, which negotiate and set power levels to their respective end nodes. This separate channel requires additional wiring which can add to the time and expense of installation and increase the overall weight of the vehicle, affecting fuel economy.

[0008] All publications identified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0009] Thus, there is still a need for improved power management systems and methods for managing power allocation among power outlets in a vehicle.Summary of the Invention

[0010] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems, and methods for power allocation and management within an aircraft or other vehicle which can be used to provide power to a plurality of power outlets within the vehicle. The described systems and methods function to intelligently manage power distribution within the vehicle by communicating with downstream controllers using data over power. This allows for dynamic allocation of power to each power outlet without the need for a separate wired connection.

[0011] While the below discussion is directed to aircraft, it is contemplated that other vehicles could utilize the inventive subject matter discussed herein, including, for example, busses, trains, cars, ferries, and so forth, where a limited power supply must be dynamically allocated to a plurality of power outlets to address changes in demand and load on the system.

[0012] It is contemplated that the power outlets could be used to power one or more portable electronic devices of passengers or crew, for example. As used herein, the term “portableelectronic device” is defined to include laptop computers, tablet PCs, mobile phones including, for example, those running APPLE iOS™ or ANDROID™ operating software, smart watches, smart glasses such as GOOGLE glass or their equivalent capable of displaying augmented reality elements to a user wearing the glasses. Such portable electronic devices may draw anywhere between 2.5W to 100W, for example. Of course, the specific wattage may fall outside of this range depending on the devices and the hardware utilized, for example.

[0013] Contemplated systems comprise a power supply having a control unit, which may include a processor, memory and / or control circuit, for example. The power supply is preferably in electrical communication with plurality of controllers disposed within the vehicle. Each of the controllers is configured to receive power, and preferably direct current (DC) power, from the power supply via a wired connection.

[0014] Each of the controllers is also preferably in electrical communication with one or more power outlets disposed within the vehicle. In some embodiments, each seat of the vehicle or each set row, for example, may comprise one or more power outlets for use by passengers of the vehicle. In an aircraft, for example, these power outlets may be disposed on the seat back in front of the seat, below a passenger’s seat, or elsewhere within the vehicle. Similarly, the controllers may be disposed at each seat row or other locations within the vehicle.

[0015] In preferred embodiments, the power outlets may comprise USB ports which can be used to charge portable electronic devices, such as those described above. It is contemplated that the USB ports could comprise USB Type A and / or Type C ports. Of course, other connectors or protocols could be used without departing from the scope of invention herein.

[0016] Preferably, the power supply, using its control unit, may periodically measure the power output (current) supplied to each of the controllers and transmit control signal(s) to one or more of the controllers to change an amount of power allocated to one or more of the power outlets associated with that controller. As one example, the power supply may have a power output limit, and the control unit can compare the measured power output against the power output limit to determine whether the measured power output to some or all of the controllers should be increased or decreased. If a change is needed, a control signal can be sent from the power supply to at least one controller over the same wired connection used for the DC power, where thecontrol signal indicates the new power setting for one or more of the power outlets in electrical communication with that controller. The controller can then change the amount of DC power allocated to the power outlet based on the control signal received.

[0017] It is contemplated that the control unit may comprise control circuitry, control logic, a processor, memory, and / or other hardware or software necessary to perform the functions described herein.

[0018] It is contemplated that the new power setting indicates the amount of DC power that can be used by the power outlet to charge a connected portable electronic device, for example. Specifically, the new power setting may indicate a wattage value to be provided to the power outlet.

[0019] Thus, for example, if the power supply determines that the measured power output has met or exceeded the power output limit, the power supply may send a control signal to one or more of the plurality of controllers to reduce the power allocated to one or more of the power outlets. It is further contemplated that the power supply could receive an indication of how many portable electronic devices are requesting power for each controller. In such embodiments, when the number of portable electronic devices is reduced, the power allocated to each may increase. Similarly, as the number of portable electronic devices increases, the power allocated to each may decrease.

[0020] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.Brief Description of The Drawings

[0021] Figure l is a schematic of one embodiment of a power management system.

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic of another embodiment of a power management system.

[0023] Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a method for power allocation in a vehicle.

[0024] Figure 4 illustrates a flowchart of another embodiment of a method for power allocation in a vehicle.Detailed Description

[0025] Throughout the following discussion, references may be made regarding servers, controllers, control units, services, interfaces, portals, platforms, or other systems formed from electronic devices. It should be appreciated that the use of such terms is deemed to represent one or more electronic devices having at least one control unit or at least one processor configured to execute software instructions stored on a computer readable tangible, non-transitory medium. For example, a server can include one or more computers operating as a web server, database server, or other type of computer server in a manner to fulfill described roles, responsibilities, or functions.

[0026] One should appreciate that the inventive subject matter provides for control signals to be sent from a power supply to one or more controllers via the power lines connecting the power supply to the controllers. The power supply can monitor power draw on each power line and communicate with multiple controllers over the power lines in order to allocate power among the controllers (and their associated power outlets) without the need for separate wired connections for power management. The elimination of the separate wired connections for data transmission advantageously reduces the weight and cost of the system while allowing for remote management of the controllers by the power supply.

[0027] It is contemplated that the system and methods discussed herein can be applied to any situation which involves managing the allocation of power among multiple remote end nodes utilizing the power lines themselves to communicate from the source of power to each mechanism that controls the power delivered to its associated end node.

[0028] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0029] Figure 1 illustrates a power management system 100 for an aircraft or other vehicle comprising a power supply 102 having a control unit 104, which may comprise control circuitry and / or a memory and processor, for example. The power supply 102 is configured to provide power to a plurality of controllers 110A-110D (e.g., a first controller 110A, a second controller HOB, a third controller HOC, and a fourth controller 110D), which are each disposed within the vehicle and in electrical communication with the power supply 102, preferably distributed over multiple columns. The controllers 110A-110D may be disposed at each seat or seat group (e.g., seat row) to distribute power to one or more power outlets 120A-120D as described below. It is contemplated that power could also be distributed to one or more entertainment system units (e.g., a seat back, seat arm or monument unit).

[0030] As shown, the power supply 102 is physically remote from the individual power controllers 110A-110D that each negotiate and set power levels to their respective power outlets 120A-120D

[0031] Each of the controllers 110A-110D may receive power from the power supply over a wired connection. Here, for example, the first controller 110A receives power over a first wired connection 112A. The second controller 110B receives power over a second wired connection 112B. The third controller HOC receives power over a third wired connection 112C. The fourth controller HOD receives power over a fourth wired connection 112D.

[0032] It is contemplated that each of the controllers 110A-110D receives DC power. The specific voltage of the DC power may vary depending on the application and the specifications of the system. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that each of the controllers receives DC power with a voltage less than 50 VDC. In other embodiments, each of the controllers 110A- 110D receives DC power having a voltage of less than 48 VDC or less than 42 VDC. In still further embodiments, each of the controllers 110A-110D receives DC power having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC, although the specific properties of the current could exceed these ranges as discussed above.

[0033] Each of the controllers 110A-H0D, in turn, is configured to provide power to one or more power outlets 120A-120D disposed within the vehicle and in electrical communication with one of the plurality of controllers 110A-H0D. Each of the controllers H0A-110Dpreferably is configured to reduce the voltage of the received power as needed, depending on the application. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the first power outlet 120A is configured to receive power from the first controller 110A. The second power outlet 120B is configured to receive power from the second controller HOB. The third power outlet 120C is configured to receive power from the third controller HOC. The fourth power outlet 120D is configured to receive power from the fourth controller HOD.

[0034] Each of the controllers 110A-110D can thereby feed power to the one or more power outlets 120A-120D and vary the wattage depending on what is required by the system 100.

[0035] As discussed above, the power outlets 120A-120D may be used to charge portable electronic devices of passengers, for example. In some embodiments, each of the power outlets 120A-120D comprises a universal serial bus (USB) outlet having one or more USB ports, where each of the USB ports is configured to power a portable electronic device coupled to one of the USB ports.

[0036] In some embodiments, each seat row of the aircraft or other vehicle may have at least one power outlet. Thus, for example, in an aircraft having thirty rows of seats, it is contemplated that there may be thirty, sixty, or more power outlets disposed within the aircraft, depending on the number of power outlets disposed at each seat row or group.

[0037] It is especially preferred that the power supply 102, via its control unit 104, is configured to periodically receive current measurements from power being supplied to each of the controllers 110A-110D and comprises a separate control bus architecture 130 to transmit a control signal to the first controller H0A to change an amount of power allocated to the first power outlet 120A. Of course, the power supply 102 could transmit the same or a different control signal to others of the controllers HOB-HOD to change an amount of power allocated to their associated power outlets.

[0038] In this manner, the power supply 102 can measure power being sent individually to the controllers 110A-110D using the control unit 104, so that the power supply 102 has a system level overview of the power allocation among the components of the system 100. Using this information, the power source 102 via its control unit 104 can transmit a control signal to thecontrollers 110A-110D and dictate how much power each of the controllers 110A-110D can have using the control bus architecture 130. The control bus architecture 130 acts as a separate communication channel to the controllers 110A-110D. Such communication channel could utilize an output signal having three possible states, which can be used to allocate power to multiple USB power outlets in the vehicle by causing one or more of the outlets to power on, off, or be put in an intermediate state. This can be done using a control logic (i.e., a combination of hardware and software) that may be implemented within each of the controllers 110A-110D.

[0039] The control signal from the power supply 102 instructs the first controller 110A to increase or decrease an amount of power provided to the first power outlet 120A, which in turn changes the amount of power provided to a connected portable electronic device. It is contemplated that the wattage of the power provided to the first power outlet 120A may vary between 2.5W - 60W. Of course, the specific wattage may exceed this range depending on the connector used and other circumstances. For example, USB-C currently can support up to 240W of power for connected devices.

[0040] It is contemplated that a current supplied to each of the controllers 110A-110D could be measured using one or more components. For example, a current sense could be used to sense current flow on the connection between the power supply 102 and each of the controllers 110A- 110D and transmit the amount of current to the control unit 104.

[0041] Although the above description has referenced aircraft, it is contemplated that the power management system 100 could be implemented in other vehicles such as those described above.

[0042] The power supply 102 (including the control unit 104) and each of the controllers 110A- 110D may comprise software and hardware to effect the systems and methods described herein. Such hardware may include, for example, one or more processors (CPUs), memory, control circuitry and / or other components.

[0043] Figure 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of a power management system 200 for an aircraft or other vehicle. The system 200 comprises a power supply 202 having a control unit 204. As discussed above, the control unit 204 may comprise control circuitry, control logic, aprocessor, memory, and / or other hardware or software necessary to perform the functions described herein.

[0044] The power supply 202 is configured to provide power to a plurality of controllers 210A- 210D (e.g., a first controller 210A, a second controller 210B, a third controller 210C, and a fourth controller 210D), which are each disposed within the vehicle and in electrical communication with the power supply 202, preferably distributed over multiple columns. The controllers 210A-210D may be disposed at each seat or seat group (e.g., seat row) to distribute power to one or more power outlets 220A-220D as described below. It is contemplated that power could also be distributed to one or more entertainment system units via the controllers 210A-210D (e.g., a seat back, seat arm or monument unit).

[0045] As shown, the power supply 202 is physically remote from the individual power controllers 210A-210D, with each of the controllers 210A-210D negotiating and setting power levels to their respective power outlets 220A-220D based on control signals received from the power supply 202.

[0046] Each of the controllers 210A-210D receive power from the power supply over a wired connection (power line). Here, for example, the first controller 210A receives power over a first wired connection 212A. The second controller 210B receives power over a second wired connection 212B. The third controller 210C receives power over a third wired connection 212C. The fourth controller 210D receives power over a fourth wired connection 212D.

[0047] It is contemplated that each of the controllers 210A-210D receives DC power. The specific voltage of the DC power may vary depending on the application and the specifications of the system. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that each of the controllers receives DC power with a voltage less than 50 VDC. In other embodiments, each of the controllers 210A- 210D receives DC power having a voltage of less than 48 VDC or less than 42 VDC. In still further embodiments, each of the controllers 210A-210D receives DC power having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC, although the specific properties of the current could exceed these ranges as discussed above.

[0048] Each of the controllers 210A-210D, in turn, is configured to provide power to one or more power outlets 220A-220D disposed within the vehicle and in electrical communication with one of the plurality of controllers 210A-210D. Each of the controllers 210A-210D preferably is configured to change the properties of the provided power as needed, depending on the application.

[0049] As one example shown in Figure 2, the first power outlet 220A is configured to receive power from the first controller 210A. The second power outlet 220B is configured to receive power from the second controller 210B. The third power outlet 220C is configured to receive power from the third controller 210C. The fourth power outlet 220D is configured to receive power from the fourth controller 210D. Of course, it is contemplated that one or more of the controllers 210A-210D could provide power to two or more power outlets.

[0050] Each of the controllers 210A-210D can thereby feed power to the one or more power outlets 220A-220D and vary the wattage depending on what is required by the system 200 and / or dictated by the power supply 202. The power outlets 220A-220D may be used to charge portable electronic devices of passengers, for example. In some embodiments, each of the power outlets 220A-220D comprises a universal serial bus (USB) outlet having one or more USB ports, where each of the USB ports is configured to power a portable electronic device coupled to one of the USB ports. Of course, other types of ports or connections could be used without departing from the scope of the invention discussed herein.

[0051] In some embodiments, each seat row of the aircraft or other vehicle may have at least one power outlet. Thus, for example, in an aircraft having thirty rows of seats, it is contemplated that there may be thirty, sixty, or more power outlets disposed within the aircraft, depending on the number of power outlets disposed at each seat row or group.

[0052] It is especially preferred that the power supply 202, via its control unit 204, is configured to periodically receive current measurements from power being supplied to each of the controllers 210A-210D such that the power supply 202 has a system level overview of the power allocation among the components of the system 200. Based on the total demand for power as compared with a predefined power output limit, the power supply 202 may require a reduction in power provided to one or more of the power outlets 220A-220D. Thus, as portable electronicdevices are connected to or removed from the power outlets 220A-220D, for example, the demand on the power supply 202 will change over time, which may require a reduction in power to one or more of the power outlets 220A-220D or allow for an increase in power provided to one or more of the power outlets 220A-220D.

[0053] It is contemplated that the current could be measured using one or more components. For example, a current sense could be used to sense current flow on the connection between the power supply 202 and each of the controllers 210A-210D and transmit the amount of current to the control unit 204.

[0054] Advantageously, and in contrast to the system shown in Figure 1, system 200 utilizes a data over power scheme to transmit control signals to the controllers 210A-210D from the power supply 202 by modulating the data of the control signal to be transmitted with the power provided to one or more of the controllers 210A-210D via the power line connection(s). In the example shown in Figure 2, the control unit 204 can transmit a control signal to the first controller 210A over the power line connection 212A. Thus, rather than require a separate communication channel necessitating the cost and weight of additional wiring, the power line themselves (e.g., connections 212A-212D) are utilized to transmit signals from the power supply 202 to the individual controllers 210A-210D. Of course, it is contemplated that the same control signal or a different control signal could be sent from the control unit 204 to others of the one or more controllers 210B-210D in a similar fashion.

[0055] Various modulation schemes could be used to transmit the control signal from the control unit 204 to the first controller 210A or others of the controllers 210B-210D. As discussed above, this can be done using a control logic (a combination of hardware and software) that may be implemented within the power source 202. Adding circuitry to allow for data modulation is achievable without requiring replacement of the entire system.

[0056] Using the measured current information, the power source 202 via its control unit 204 can dictate to the controllers 210A-210D using one or more control signals how much power each of the controllers 210A-210D can have using the same wired connection over which power is provided to the controllers 210A-210D. A control signal can be transmitted to the first controller 210A, for example, to change an amount of power allocated to the first power outlet220A. Of course, the power supply 202 could transmit the same or a different control signal to others of the controllers 210B-210D to change an amount of power allocated to their associated power outlets 220B-220D.

[0057] In the above example, the control signal instructs the first controller 210A to increase or decrease an amount of power provided to the first power outlet 220A, and the first power outlet 220A in turn then provides that amount of power to a connected portable electronic device. It is contemplated that the wattage of the power provided to the first power outlet 220A may vary depending on the circumstances.

[0058] In a further embodiment, the control unit 204 may be configured to signal via the power line connection 212A to the first controller 210A to adjust the amount of power provided to the first power outlet 220A from a first value to a revised second value, which could be an increase or decrease in wattage value depending on the power output limit and the number of portable electronic devices connected to the system 200. Because the load on the power supply 202 will likely vary over time as the portable electronic devices are connected to and disconnected from the system 200, the control unit 204 is preferably configured to periodically make adjustments as needed to the allocation of power to the power outlets 220A-220D, based on the number of connected portable electronic devices and the total power requested as compared to the power output limit, for example.

[0059] Although the above description has referenced aircraft, it is contemplated that the power management system 200 could be implemented in other vehicles such as those described above. It is contemplated that the power supply 202 (its control unit 204) and each of the controllers 210A-210D may comprise software and hardware to affect the systems and methods described herein. Such hardware may include, for example, one or more processors (CPUs), memory, control circuitry and / or other components.

[0060] Figure 3 illustrates one embodiment of a method 300 for power allocation in a vehicle, which could be implemented using the components of system 200, for example. In step 310, a power supply is provided within the vehicle comprising a control unit, such as that described above. In step 320, a first controller and a second controller are provided, each of which are in electrical communication with the power supply. Preferably, the first controller is configured toreceive power from the power supply via a first wired connection, and the second controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a second wired connection. In some embodiments, the power supply transmits power to the controllers having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC, although the specific voltage may vary.

[0061] In step 330, a first power outlet is provided in electrical communication with the first controller and a second power outlet is provided in electrical communication with the second controller. As discussed above, it is contemplated that the power outlets are each configured to charge one or more portable electronic devices connected to the power outlet at an amount of power equal to a value instructed by the power supply, as discussed below. Power provided to the power outlets may have a wattage of between 2.5W to 60W, although the specific properties will depend on the specific application.

[0062] In some embodiments, the power outlets each comprises one or more USB ports. Each of the USB ports can be configured to power a portable electronic device connected to one of the USB ports. Of course, other types of ports or connections could be used without departing from the scope of the invention discussed herein.

[0063] To determine whether power provided to the first and second power outlets should be increased or decreased, the method may further comprise the steps of the control unit receiving current measurements from power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers, and then calculating an adjustment to the power being supplied to the first and / or second controller by comparing the current measurements with a predefined power output limit. Based on this comparison and, optionally the number of portable electronic devices drawing power from the power supply, the control unit determines an adjustment to the amount of power to be offered by one or more of the power outlets.

[0064] To affect the adjustment to the amount of power provided to the first controller, in step 340, the control unit causes power to be momentarily interrupted to the first controller and reduces the power to the first controller to a value that is above a first threshold and below a minimum charging level of a portable electronic device connected to the first power outlet. It is contemplated that the first threshold is equal to a minimum power requirement of the first controller to operate. Thus, the value chosen will allow the first controller to operate but preventdevices connected to the first power outlet from charging. Exemplary values could be between 3-20W, for example.

[0065] As just one example, the control unit may cause power to be interrupted from the power supply to the first controller and decrease the supplied power to the first controller to a first value of 15W. The specific amount of power chosen can indicate to the first controller the amount of power to provide to the first outlet, for example. This could occur using a look up table or other scheme where the first value of the reduced amount of power is associated with a second value equating to an amount of power to be offered to the first outlet. It is contemplated that the first and second values may be different.

[0066] In other words, in order to signal a new power profile, the power supply momentarily interrupts charging and lowers the power provided to the controller below the minimum charging level while retaining a level that powers the controller’s supervisory circuitry. The particular level to which the power decreases indicates to the controller the new power level requested. The charging voltage level is then restored by the power supply, and the controller offers the new power level to the attached portable electronic device via the power outlet. This process can be used to either increase or decrease power supplied to the power outlets as the total budget moves up and down based on system wide demands.

[0067] It is contemplated that a signaling mechanism may also be used over the power line that does not require this brief interruption (e.g., a low voltage DTMF modulation) but this requires more complex circuitry than required to decode voltage level signaling.

[0068] In step 350, the control unit can restore power to the first controller, and, in step 360, the first controller offers power to the first power outlet at the new value.

[0069] Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of a method 400 for power allocation in a vehicle. In step 410, a power supply is provided within the vehicle comprising a control unit such as those described above. In step 420, a first controller and a second controller are provided, each of which are in electrical communication with the power supply. Preferably, the first controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a first wired connection, and the second controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a secondwired connection. In some embodiments, the power supply transmits power to the controllers having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC, although the specific voltage may vary.

[0070] In step 430, a first power outlet is provided in electrical communication with the first controller and a second power outlet is provided in electrical communication with the second controller. As discussed above, it is contemplated that the power outlets are each capable of charging a portable electronic device connected to the power outlet at an amount of power equal to the determined second value, as discussed below. Power provided to the power outlets may have a wattage of between 2.5W to 60W, although the specific properties may depend on the specific application.

[0071] To determine whether power provided to the first and second power outlets should be increased or decreased, the method may further comprise the steps of the control unit receiving current measurements from power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers, and then calculating an adjustment to the power being supplied to the first controller by comparing the current measurements with a power output limit. Based on this comparison and, optionally the number of portable electronic devices drawing power from the power supply, the control unit determines the adjustment needed for power being supplied by the one or more power outlets and instructs the first and / or second controller to adjust power provided to the power outlet(s) to the determined second value based on the calculated adjustment.

[0072] In some embodiments, the power outlets each comprises one or more USB ports. Each of the USB ports can be configured to power a portable electronic device coupled to one of the USB ports. Of course, other types of ports or connections could be used without departing from the scope of the invention discussed herein.

[0073] In step 440, the control unit of the power supply receives current measurements of the power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers. In step 450, the control unit compares the current measurements with a predefined power output limit of the power supply to determine if the current measurements meet or exceed the power output limit. If the current measurements are collectively less than the power output limit, then no change is needed.

[0074] If the current measurements collectively meet or exceed the power output limit, in step 460, the control unit calculates an adjustment to the power supplied by the first controller to one or more outlets. In step 470, the control unit instructs the first controller to adjust power being supplied to the one or more outlets to a determined second value based on the calculated adjustment. This can occur by the control unit causing power to be interrupted from the power supply to the first controller and then reducing the power level to an amount below a minimum charging level of a portable electronic device and above a threshold value equal to a minimum power requirement of the first controller. The reduced amount of power signals to the first controller the determined second value of power to be provided to the one or more outlets.

[0075] In step 480, the control unit restores power to the first controller, and, in step 490, the first controller offers power to the first power outlet at the determined second value.

[0076] Where an adjustment to power levels is needed, it is contemplated that the control unit can determine which power outlets should receive an adjusted amount of power. For example, the control unit may cause only certain power outlets to adjust the power provided and those power outlets may be selected based on a number of factors including a location of the power outlet in the vehicle (e.g., a class of service), a length of time the power outlet has been used during a flight, an airline status of the passenger in the seat associated with the power outlet, and so forth.

[0077] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0078] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, thenumerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0079] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0080] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0081] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value with a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0082] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasonsof convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0083] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A power allocation and management system for a vehicle, comprising: a power supply comprising a control unit; a plurality of controllers disposed within the vehicle and in electrical communication with the power supply, wherein the plurality of controllers comprises at least a first controller and a second controller, and wherein the first controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a first wired connection, and the second controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a second wired connection; a plurality of power outlets disposed within the vehicle, each in electrical communication with one of the plurality of controllers, wherein the plurality of power outlets comprises at least a first power outlet and a second power outlet, wherein the first power outlet is configured to receive power from the first controller, and the second power outlet is configured to receive power from the second controller; wherein the control unit of the power supply is configured to receive current measurements from power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers and transmit a control signal (i) to the first controller via the first wired connection to adjust an amount of power provided to the first power outlet or (ii) to the second controller via the second wired connection to adjust an amount of power provided to the second power outlet.

2. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the control signal transmitted to the first controller via the first wired connection instructs the first controller to increase the amount of power provided to the first power outlet.

3. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the control signal transmitted to the first controller via the first wired connection instructs the first controller to decrease the amount of power provided to the first power outlet.

4. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the first controller is configured to charge a portable electronic device coupled to the first power outlet at an amount of power indicated by the control signal.

5. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the first and second power outlet each comprises a universal serial bus (USB) outlet having one or more USB ports.

6. The power allocation and management system of claim 5, wherein each of the USB ports is configured to power a portable electronic device when connected to one of the USB ports.

7. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to modulate data of the control signal to be transmitted along with power via the first wired connection.

8. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the power supply transmits power to the first and second controllers having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC.

9. The power allocation and management system of claim 1, wherein the first controller transmits power to the first power outlet having a wattage of between 2.5W to 60W.

10. A method for power allocation in a vehicle having a power supply and a plurality of controllers electrically coupled with the power supply, comprising: providing a power supply comprising a control unit; providing a first controller and a second controller, each of which are in electrical communication with the power supply, wherein the first controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a first wired connection, and the second controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a second wired connection; providing a first power outlet in electrical communication with the first controller and a second power outlet in electrical communication with the second controller; the control unit causing power to be interrupted from the power supply to the first controller and adjusting power to a revised value that is below a minimum charging level of a portable electronic device and above a first threshold value; the control unit restoring power to the first controller; andthe first controller adjusting power provided to the first power outlet to a second value that is based on the revised value.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the first controller decreasing power provided to the first power outlet to the second value.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the first controller increasing power provided to the first power outlet to the second value.

13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: the control unit receiving current measurements from power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers, and calculating an adjustment to power supplied to the first controller by comparing the total current measurements with a power output limit; the control unit determining the second value based on the adjustment to the power; and the control unit transmitting the revised value to the first controller to instruct the first controller to adjust power provided to the first power outlet to the second value.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the first power outlet is configured to provide power to a portable electronic device connected to the first power outlet at an amount of power equal to the second value.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein the first power outlet comprises a USB outlet having one or more USB ports.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein each of the USB ports is configured to power a portable electronic device coupled to one of the USB ports.

17. The method of claim 10, wherein the power supply provides power to the first controller having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC.

18. The method of claim 10, wherein the first controller power provided to the first power outlet to a second value power to the first power outlet having a wattage of between 2.5W to 60W.

19. A method for power allocation in a vehicle having a power supply and a plurality of controllers electrically coupled with the power supply, comprising: providing a power supply comprising a control unit; providing a first controller and a second controller, each of which are in electrical communication with the power supply, wherein the first controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a first wired connection, and the second controller is configured to receive power from the power supply via a second wired connection; providing a first power outlet in electrical communication with the first controller and a second power outlet in electrical communication with the second controller; receiving, at the control unit, current measurements from power being supplied to each of the first and second controllers; comparing the total current measurements to a power output limit of the power supply; and if the total current measurements meet or exceed the power output limit, the control unit causing power to be interrupted to the first controller and reducing power to the first controller to a revised value that is between a first threshold value and a minimum charging level of a portable electronic device; the control unit restoring power to the first controller; and the first controller offering power to the first power outlet at a second value that is based on the revised value.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the first power outlet is configured to charge a portable electronic device connected to the first power outlet at an amount of power equal to the second value.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the first power outlet comprises a USB outlet having one or more USB ports.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein each of the USB ports is configured to power a portable electronic device coupled to one of the USB ports.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the power supply provides power to the first and second controllers having a voltage of approximately ±28 VDC.

24. The method of claim 19, wherein the first controller provides power to the first power outlet having a wattage of between 2.5W to 60W.

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