Controller Module Power Mode Switching for Aircraft Distribution Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power distribution systems in aircraft and other applications face challenges in efficiently managing power consumption, particularly when using limited power sources, as conventional methods require continuous high power demand from controller modules, leading to rapid discharge and limited operational time.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a controller module operating in both low and normal power consumption modes, where the module enters a low power mode when not in use and switches to normal mode only when necessary, using a latch component to control the power switch, thereby reducing power consumption and extending the operational time of limited power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the controller module operates continuously in normal power consumption mode, then the power distribution node can respond quickly to power management tasks, but the power source depletes rapidly and operational time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The controller module dynamically transitions between normal power consumption mode and low power consumption mode based on operational requirements. The system adjusts its operational state in real-time, entering low power mode during stable periods and activating normal mode when power management tasks require intervention, thereby optimizing both response speed and operational duration
Solution Approach 2:
The controller module employs periodic monitoring of power characteristics and uses event-triggered wake-up mechanisms. Instead of continuous operation, the controller periodically checks system status and activates normal mode only when specific conditions are met, creating a rhythmic pattern of high and low power states that extends operational time while maintaining necessary responsiveness
2Duration of action of moving object
If the controller module operates in low power consumption mode, then the operational time is extended, but the ability to quickly respond to power management tasks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller module performs preliminary assessments of power characteristics and system state before transitioning between modes. By anticipating the need for normal mode operation through advance detection of power threshold violations or system anomalies, the controller can wake up proactively rather than reactively, reducing the effective response time delay caused by low power mode operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback monitoring of power characteristics with threshold-based trigger mechanisms. When power characteristics exceed predetermined thresholds or specific events occur, the feedback loop immediately activates the controller from low power mode, ensuring rapid response to critical conditions while maintaining low power consumption during stable operation
3Use of energy by moving object
If the controller module frequently switches between power modes, then power consumption is optimized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power mode switching logic from a complex microcontroller-based system and implements it using simpler dedicated circuitry, including voltage threshold detectors, comparators, and latch components. By separating the power management functions from the main controller and using dedicated hardware for mode switching, the system reduces overall complexity while maintaining optimized power consumption control
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution node, includes a power switch controllably operable to supply energy from an input to an output when the power switch is closed and to not supply energy from the input to the output when the power switch is open, a controller module, a supply power source connected with and energizing the controller module, and a control circuit configured to sense a power characteristic of the power distribution node.