Load Control Module Sequencing for Power Distribution Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power distribution systems with limited peak power capability or high source impedance are susceptible to abnormal operation when multiple loads, such as lighting systems, power up simultaneously, leading to voltage fluctuations and potential system overload.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a load control method where power is applied to a load control device, which waits for a predetermined time after power-up to receive a control signal before enabling power delivery to electrical loads, thereby sequencing the startup of loads to reduce stress on the power distribution system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If all lighting loads are turned on simultaneously upon power-up, then the lighting control system restores full functionality quickly, but the power distribution system experiences voltage fluctuations and potential overload
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the simultaneous startup of all lighting loads into sequential segments. The controller activates loads in multiple groups over time, with each group turning on after a predetermined delay interval. This segmentation prevents the aggregate inrush current from overwhelming the power distribution system while still achieving complete system restoration.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary actions by enabling the first group of lighting loads before enabling subsequent groups. This staged approach allows the power distribution system to gradually accommodate increasing load demands, preventing voltage fluctuations and overload conditions that would occur with simultaneous activation of all loads.
2Reliability
If the load control device waits for a predetermined time before enabling power delivery, then voltage fluctuations are prevented, but the time to restore full lighting functionality is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through predetermined delay intervals between enabling successive groups of lighting loads. Rather than a single long delay, the system uses multiple shorter periodic intervals that allow gradual load activation. This approach maintains power distribution stability while minimizing the total time to restore full lighting functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Power distribution systems that have a limited peak power capability or a high source impedance, such as site supply generators, are often susceptible to abnormal operation in response to the current drawn at power up from the loads connected to the power distribution system. The present invention provides a load control module for a lighting control system operable to start up a plurality of the lighting loads in sequence to reduce stress on the power distribution system. The lighting loads are each turned on as part of a startup sequence at predetermined times after an output voltage of the power distribution system has stabilized. The lighting control module is operable to wait for a predetermined amount of time for the startup sequence to begin before turning on the lighting loads.