Calibrating Intelligent AC Outlets Using Optical and RFID Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing AC power outlets and devices lack accurate and user-friendly methods for measuring and updating power consumption data, especially in residential and commercial settings, due to distortion from uneven loads and the need for frequent calibration, which requires technical expertise and specialized tools.
Innovation Solution
A handheld loader device using optical and RFID signals to calibrate and update AC outlets and sensors, enabling non-technical users to accurately measure and report power consumption by transmitting coded signals for current drain and voltage, integrating with home automation systems for real-time monitoring and error-free energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional AC outlets are used without calibration capabilities, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of power consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A handheld loader device serves as an intermediary tool between the user and the AC outlet calibration process. The loader contains calibration data and communicates with the outlet via optical or RFID signals, enabling precise calibration without requiring the outlet itself to be complex. This separates the calibration functionality from the outlet structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The AC outlet is equipped with self-calibration capabilities through integrated sensors and memory that can automatically adjust its measurement parameters when the loader is activated. The outlet measures voltage and current independently and uses the loader to refine its calibration, reducing the need for external technical intervention.
2Reliability
If AC outlets include calibration and updating functions, then reliability of power data reporting is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to technical expertise requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to perform calibration and updating operations themselves using the handheld loader, which is designed to be intuitive and require no technical knowledge. The automated measurement and calibration processes eliminate the need for users to understand complex electrical parameters, making reliable data reporting accessible to ordinary consumers.
3Measurement precision
If high-speed voltage and current measurement is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process uses periodic sampling of voltage and current at high speed intervals only when needed, rather than continuous monitoring. The sinusoidal curve measurements are performed in discrete cycles, allowing the system to achieve high measurement precision during calibration while minimizing overall energy consumption by returning to lower-power states between measurements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a simplified, cost-effective method for users to accurately calibrate and monitor power consumption, ensuring reliable data reporting and energy management without the need for technical expertise, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of power usage tracking in various settings.
Implementation Method 1
A handheld loader device using optical and RFID signals to calibrate and update AC outlets and sensors
Implementation Method 2
A handheld loader device using optical and RFID signals to calibrate and update AC outlets and sensors
Implementation Method 3
The consumed AC power value is calculated on the basis of the current drain and the measured voltage which mandates the measuring of both the voltage level and the current value along the AC sinusoidal curve at high speed intervals
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3F
AI summary
A method and apparatus for measuring and calibrating the power consumption reporting by intelligent AC outlets, sub outlets and sockets including optoport and RFID antenna using a hand held loader and propagating optical signals via a lightquide or fiber optic cable and via RFID signals and tags, including the setting up of location, AC outlet identification and appliance particulars. Simpler loaders or calibrators communicate standard power consumption values to the AC outlet for self-calibration using the received values. The appliance particulars are introduced via the loader keys or a touch screen and via the reading of a RFID tag attached to the plug of an appliance and processed via the loader for propagation through an optical grid of a residence automation system via current drain or power consumption receivers.