Interrupt Switch Adapter for Grid Isolation and Backup Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating backup electricity sources with residential power grids is complicated and costly, especially when retrofitting existing buildings, and existing systems fail to provide safe isolation and efficient transition between grid and backup power sources during disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A power disconnect system with an interrupt switch adapter that fits between the power meter and the circuit breaker panel, incorporating isolation circuitry to disconnect the main power, monitor grid conditions, and automatically transition between grid and backup power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Automatic Transfer Switches are used to disconnect grid power and enable backup sources, then safety isolation is achieved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power connection into separate functional segments: the interrupt switch adapter provides isolation functionality, while the backup power source provides energy. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining safety isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The interrupt switch adapter serves as an intermediary device installed between the utility power meter and the home's electrical system. It mediates the connection between grid power and the building's electrical circuits, providing automatic disconnection during outages without requiring complex integration with backup power sources.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If Automatic Transfer Switches are installed to provide backup power during grid failures, then power continuity is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the power continuity function into independent components: the interrupt switch adapter handles grid disconnection, while backup power sources (battery, generator, or solar) provide energy independently. This allows customers to choose different backup options without requiring a complete complex transfer switch system.
Solution Approach 2:
The interrupt switch adapter is designed as a universal device that works with multiple types of backup power sources including battery backups, generators, and solar power systems. This multi-functionality reduces installation costs by eliminating the need for source-specific transfer switches.
3Ease of operation
If existing systems provide power to all circuits during grid failure, then power availability is improved, but safety control and isolation become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides electrical circuits into separate controllable segments using individual circuit breakers. During grid failures, users can selectively activate backup power for specific circuits or areas of the building, improving safety control while maintaining power availability where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides dynamic control over power distribution through the interrupt switch adapter and circuit breakers. Users can adjust which circuits receive power during grid failures, allowing flexible adaptation to changing safety requirements and power availability conditions.
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 safe isolation from the grid during disruptions, reduces installation costs by avoiding load relocation, and provides efficient monitoring and dynamic power management between grid and backup sources.
Implementation Method 1
The sense circuit comprises at least one Rogowski coil configured to sense power flow through a bus bar pair that feeds the grid power to the electric meter
Data Source
AI summary
The systems and methods herein described isolating a circuit breaker panel for a building from a grid circuit during an event disrupting the grid circuit. In one aspect, an interrupt switch system comprises a housing configured to mate with an electric meter socket on a first side and an electric meter on a second side, the housing comprising power inputs from grid power and power outputs to a circuit breaker panel and an interrupt circuit disposed within the housing and configured to interrupt a flow of electricity from the power inputs to the power outputs.