Load Shed Module Using Frequency Detection and Priority Reconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load shed modules require complex wiring configurations and central controllers, increasing the risk of installation errors and reducing simplicity, as they need to manage multiple conductors and communicate with switches across various load lines.
Innovation Solution
A load shed module connected in series between a power source and a load, featuring a controller that uses feedback signals from sensors to determine the type of power source and adjust switch operation based on predetermined thresholds and priority levels, eliminating the need for signal wires and central controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a central controller is used to manage load shedding across multiple loads, then load management coordination is improved, but device complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the load management function into independent load shed modules, each capable of autonomous operation. Each module monitors its own connected load and makes independent shedding decisions based on local voltage detection, eliminating the need for a centralized controller and complex interconnecting wiring while maintaining coordinated load management through voltage-based communication.
Solution Approach 2:
Each load shed module is designed to autonomously detect power source conditions and make shedding decisions without requiring external control signals. The modules self-configure by detecting voltage presence and automatically adjust their operation based on whether utility or generator power is detected, eliminating dependency on central controller configuration and signal wiring.
2Ease of operation
If signal wires are connected between modules and to transfer switch, then control and monitoring capability is improved, but installation complexity and error potential increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the signal wire communication infrastructure entirely from the system. Control capability is maintained by having each module independently detect power source conditions through voltage sensing on the power conductors themselves, extracting the control function from separate signal wiring and integrating it into the power distribution path.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conductors serve dual functions: both carrying power and providing control/monitoring information. By detecting voltage presence and characteristics on the existing power wires, each module gains control and monitoring capabilities without requiring dedicated signal wires, making the system universally applicable to any standard electrical distribution setup.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple conductors from each load are routed to the load shed module, then switching control precision is improved, but wiring error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switching function with the existing power distribution conductors rather than requiring separate control wiring. Each module switches loads by opening or closing the hot conductor path locally, merging the control function into the power carrying wires themselves and eliminating the need for precise matching of multiple conductors between loads and modules.
Solution Approach 2:
Each load shed module autonomously identifies and controls its connected load by detecting voltage on the incoming conductors. The module self-configures by sensing which conductor is hot and which is neutral, automatically adapting to the specific wiring configuration without requiring pre-configured conductor assignments or complex identification procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A load shed module configured to be connected in series between a power supply and a load is disclosed. A separate load shed module is connected in series between each load and the power supply. The load shed module determines the frequency of the voltage supplied from the power supply. Based on the frequency, the load shed module determines if utility power is connected or if a generator is connected. If the generator is connected and the frequency of the voltage goes outside of a desired operating range for a preset time, the load shed module disconnects the load from the power supply. Each load shed module includes a priority setting and reconnects its corresponding load after a predetermined time corresponding to the priority setting.