Energy Management Adaptor for Device-Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy management systems are inefficient due to limited visibility and control at the device level, relying on obsolete metering methods and manual control, leading to increased energy costs and consumption.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based energy management system using adaptors that connect energy devices and control devices to a network, enabling remote control and measurement of energy usage at the device level through a server network interface, providing real-time data and billing visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional metering methods are used to measure energy usage at the facility level, then billing can be performed periodically, but visibility and control at the device level are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments energy measurement from facility-level metering to device-level monitoring by placing intelligent adaptors on individual energy-consuming devices. Each adaptor independently measures and reports energy usage data, enabling granular visibility at the device level while maintaining overall facility-level aggregation for billing purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intelligent adaptors as intermediary devices between energy-consuming devices and the billing system. These adaptors collect detailed energy usage data from individual devices and transmit aggregated information to the billing system, preserving device-level visibility without requiring complex direct integration between each device and the billing infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-established control devices with pre-wiring are used, then switching control is enabled, but flexibility and real-time control capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into independent intelligent adaptors that can be individually installed on energy-consuming devices without requiring extensive pre-wiring. Each adaptor operates autonomously and can be configured through software, enabling flexible control assignments and real-time adjustments without physical reconfiguration of the electrical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities where control assignments and device groupings can be modified in real-time through software configuration. The system allows flexible reassignment of adaptors to different control devices and energy-consuming devices, enabling adaptive control strategies that respond to changing operational requirements without physical installation changes.
3Loss of energy
If manual control methods are used, then simplicity is maintained, but energy waste increases due to lack of real-time monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where intelligent adaptors continuously monitor energy usage data from individual devices and transmit this information to the billing and control system. This real-time feedback enables automated control decisions, such as shutting off power to unoccupied spaces or adjusting device operation based on usage patterns, thereby reducing energy waste while maintaining manageable automation levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables energy-consuming devices to participate in energy management through self-service mechanisms. Intelligent adaptors automatically monitor device usage, report data without manual intervention, and respond to control commands. The system can automatically implement energy-saving measures such as scheduling device operation or adjusting parameters based on pre-configured rules, reducing the need for manual control while minimizing energy waste.
Data Source
AI summary
Computer based energy management including an adaptor having a server network interface and a control device interface. The server network interface receives commands from the energy management host software, the commands specify a control device and include control instructions and requests for energy usage data. The control device interface transmits the commands to the control device and receives energy usage data from the control device. The server network interface transmits the energy usage data to the energy management software in response to receiving the energy usage data from the control device. In this manner, the adaptor provides a bridge between the server network and the copper wire network to provide control and measurement of energy usage at a control device level in response to commands from a remote computer system.