Energy Control System with Local User Override
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack an effective method to control energy usage, particularly in scenarios where users want to minimize consumption during peak pricing times, without relinquishing complete control to centralized management systems.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a request interface, scheduler, and command provider that receives instructions to control energy use, identifies devices, and generates messages to limit energy consumption, utilizing protocols like ANSI C12.22 and ZigBee for communication across a mesh network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If centralized management systems control energy use, then energy consumption during peak pricing times is reduced, but user control over energy decisions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments control authority between centralized management and local devices. The head end server provides pricing information and coordination, while local energy management devices autonomously decide when to operate appliances based on user-defined preferences and real-time pricing signals, resolving the contradiction between centralized energy optimization and user control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by enabling individual energy management devices to make autonomous decisions based on their specific user preferences and local conditions. Each device can independently respond to pricing signals according to user-defined rules, allowing energy optimization at the local level while preserving user control, rather than imposing uniform centralized control.
2Loss of energy
If users operate appliances during off-peak times to save costs, then energy expenditure is reduced, but operational flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic control where appliances can flexibly adjust their operation timing based on real-time pricing signals and user preferences. Users can dynamically modify their preferences and the system adapts to changing conditions, allowing operational flexibility while still achieving cost savings through intelligent timing decisions rather than rigid off-peak-only operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the head end server provides real-time pricing information back to energy management devices, which then adjust appliance operation accordingly. This continuous feedback loop enables users to achieve cost savings while maintaining operational flexibility, as the system adapts to both pricing conditions and user needs rather than enforcing fixed scheduling.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and systems control energy usage in accordance with instructions from a head end system. A device may be instructed to cease energy consumption. Another device may allow users to override some instructions. Messages may be provided to users to request the cessation of energy consumption; the users may, but need not comply.