Addressable Outlet Circuit Identification via Power Line Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical systems lack the ability to efficiently identify and communicate with Smart Appliances connected to different breaker circuits, hindering the Smart Grid's capability to route appropriate power types and optimize energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using power distribution wires to transmit and receive digital data through modulation of a carrier frequency signal, allowing the Smart Power Distribution Unit to determine the circuit connection of Smart Appliances and communicate with them for remote control and data exchange, employing magnetic coupling devices and modulation techniques like Frequency Shift Keying or Phase Shift Keying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If wireless communication methods (Bluetooth, Zigbee, WiFi) are used to communicate with Smart Appliances, then data communication capability is improved, but the ability to identify the electrical circuit and route power is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power distribution and data communication into a single integrated system. The power distribution wires carry both electrical power and modulated data signals, eliminating the need for separate wireless communication infrastructure while maintaining circuit identification capability through the existing electrical wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution wires serve dual functions: delivering electrical power to appliances and transmitting data signals for communication and circuit identification. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by using the existing infrastructure for both purposes without adding separate communication systems.
2Loss of information
If additional house wiring is installed to enable data communication with Smart Appliances, then communication capability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing power distribution wiring is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both power and data signals. This eliminates the need for additional house wiring while providing data communication capability, directly resolving the contradiction between communication capability and installation ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing power infrastructure to provide both power and communication services. The power wires serve themselves by carrying modulated data signals alongside electrical power, eliminating the need for separate communication wiring infrastructure.
3Loss of energy
If the Smart Power Distribution Unit routes power based on appliance needs, then energy efficiency is improved, but the ability to identify which breaker circuit an appliance is connected to is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes bidirectional communication between the Smart Power Distribution Unit and appliances through the power wires. The appliance transmits its identity and circuit connection information back to the distribution unit, enabling the unit to identify connections and route power efficiently based on real-time feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution wires act as an intermediary medium that carries both power and communication signals. This intermediary enables the exchange of circuit identification information between the distribution unit and appliances while simultaneously delivering power, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and information availability.
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
Enables the Smart Power Distribution Unit to efficiently route power to Smart Appliances, optimize energy consumption, and communicate operational commands, thereby minimizing energy costs and enhancing the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources like solar power.
Implementation Method 1
The carrier frequency signal may be coupled to the power distribution wires by using, for example, a magnetic coupling device or transformer at each Smart Appliance or Addressable Outlet
Implementation Method 2
A similar or identical arrangement is employed in the Smart Power Distribution Unit to couple to the wire run to the outlet into which the smart Appliance is plugged
Data Source
AI summary
Smart Appliances are defined that assist in reducing energy consumption or cost. The Smart Appliances communicate with Smart Energy sources via the power lines and in particular by injecting communications signals between the live plus neutral power lines on the one hand and the ground line on the other hand, the communications protocol allowing a power source to identify the electrical circuit to which an appliance is connected and thereby to route a selected type of power to the appliance on the correct electrical circuit for that appliance.An addressable electrical outlet is also disclosed as one form of Smart Appliance.