Dynamic Power Distribution for Transport Vehicle Outlets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric current distribution methods in transport vehicles, such as aircraft, often leave passengers without power once the total electrical power threshold is reached, as only devices connected before the threshold are served, and power distribution is cut off if consumption increases, leading to frequent outages.
Innovation Solution
A method that dynamically adjusts and distributes electric current by monitoring and managing thresholds at each distribution unit, selectively terminating power to outlets with the highest cumulative intensity, and recalculating thresholds based on column-specific and overall cabin demands to ensure fair distribution across multiple columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical outlets are served in order of connection until a total power threshold is reached, then early-connected devices receive power reliably, but later-connected devices are denied power even when capacity exists
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power distribution by continuously monitoring cumulative power consumption and dynamically adjusting which outlets receive power. Instead of static first-come-first-served allocation, the system dynamically selects outlets for power termination based on cumulative consumption thresholds, allowing later-connected devices to receive power when earlier devices have consumed sufficient energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of power allocation from time-based (connection order) to consumption-based (cumulative energy used). By tracking cumulative power consumption per outlet and comparing it against threshold values, the system transforms the allocation criterion, enabling fairer distribution where outlets that have consumed less cumulative power receive continued supply while those exceeding thresholds are terminated.
2Reliability
If power distribution is cut off when the maximum threshold is exceeded, then system stability is maintained, but passenger experience deteriorates due to frequent outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic power distribution cycles instead of single cutoff events. When maximum threshold is reached, the system enters a periodic cycle where it sequentially terminates and reinstates power to different outlets based on cumulative consumption. This creates rhythmic, predictable power allocation that maintains system stability while ensuring all passengers eventually receive power during different phases of the cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary monitoring and tracking of cumulative power consumption for each outlet before making termination decisions. By maintaining records of energy consumed by each device, the system can predict which outlets will reach thresholds first and proactively manage power distribution to prevent complete system shutdown, thereby maintaining continuity of service.
3Adaptability or versatility
If all outlets are served simultaneously without priority, then power distribution fairness is improved, but total power consumption exceeds available capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring total power consumption across all outlets and comparing it against available capacity. The system uses this feedback to dynamically adjust which outlets receive power, terminating connections that would cause threshold exceedance while maintaining connections for outlets within acceptable consumption levels. This closed-loop control ensures equitable distribution without exceeding total power capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of distributing electric current to electrical outlets, and a program to implement same, including the steps of supplying electric current to the electrical outlets not yet connected to an electronic device upon receipt of a distribution request from the electrical outlets; determining the instantaneous current intensity supplied to the electrical outlets; comparing the determined current intensity to a threshold referred to as the maximum threshold; and when the predetermined current intensity is greater than the maximum threshold, selecting an electrical outlet and terminating the supply of electric current to the selected electrical outlet. The steps of selection and termination being carried out while continuing the step of supplying electric current to the electrical outlets not yet connected to an electronic device upon receipt of a distribution request from the electrical outlets.