Load Center Electronic Device with Multi-Function Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Load centers are limited to power distribution and lack integration with other utilities such as data, telephone, and security systems, necessitating enhanced functionality and compatibility with existing form factors.
Innovation Solution
Electronic devices with specific form factors compatible with load center positions, providing functionalities like set-top boxes, network routers, telephone base stations, security system hubs, and home controllers, which include processors, power supplies, storage units, and data interfaces, are integrated into load centers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If load centers are designed with fixed form factor positions for circuit breakers, then installation reliability is ensured, but functionality is limited to power distribution only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing electronic devices with standardized form factors that can perform multiple functions (circuit protection, data routing, telephone service, security system hub, home controller) while maintaining compatibility with existing load center positions. This allows a single position type to accommodate various functional devices without compromising installation reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If load centers are expanded to include multiple utility functions, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple utility functions (power distribution, data networking, telephone service, security systems, home automation) into integrated electronic devices that fit within standard load center positions. By combining these functions into unified devices with standardized form factors, the system achieves versatility without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic devices are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously (e.g., a device that provides both circuit protection and data routing capabilities), reducing the total number of separate components needed and managing complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a housing defining an exterior shape of the electronic device, a processor, a power supply structured to receive line power and to convert the line power for use by the electronic device, a storage unit structured to store data, and a number of data interfaces structured to receive a data connection. The electronic device has a particular form factor that is compatible with positions in a circuit breaker receiving area of a load center. The electronic device is structured to provide the functionality of at least one of a set-top box, a network data interface, a telephone base station, a security system hub and a home controller.