Master/Slave Outlet System with Automatic Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension line outlets either lack security and power-saving features or are inconvenient to use due to the need for individual switch control for each outlet, failing to balance user convenience, security, and power efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A master/slave outlet system with a current sensor, operational amplifier, power switch, and driver that automatically controls the slave outlet based on the master outlet's power status, ensuring the slave outlet is only active when the master outlet is powered and turned off when the master outlet is off or in sleep mode, along with an optional master control switch for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual switch control extension line is used, then security and power-saving are improved, but user convenience deteriorates due to requiring multiple switches
Solution Approach 1:
The extension line outlets are segmented into master outlets and slave outlets with different control functions. Master outlets have individual switches for independent control, while slave outlets are automatically controlled based on master outlet status, creating a hierarchical control structure that balances manual control needs with automated convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically controlling the slave outlets based on the master outlet status before the user needs to manually control each slave outlet. The control circuit proactively monitors master outlet switch status and automatically adjusts slave outlet power supply accordingly, eliminating the need for users to manually operate multiple switches
2Loss of energy
If individual switch control extension line is used, then power-saving is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple switches and controls
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions for multiple slave outlets are merged into a single control circuit that monitors master outlet status and automatically controls all slave outlets. This consolidates what would otherwise require multiple independent switch control circuits into one unified control system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining power-saving capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The master outlet serves multiple functions: it provides power output like any regular outlet, and simultaneously acts as a control sensor that triggers automatic control of slave outlets. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control mechanisms for each outlet, simplifying the overall system
3Device complexity
If single switch control extension line is used, then device complexity is reduced, but power-saving and security objectives are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The outlets are segmented into master and slave categories with differentiated control strategies. Master outlets use individual switches for manual control when power-saving is needed, while slave outlets use automatic control based on master outlet status, achieving power-saving without requiring every outlet to have its own switch
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit implements feedback by continuously monitoring the switch status of master outlets and automatically adjusting the power supply to slave outlets accordingly. When a master outlet switch is turned off, the control circuit detects this change and automatically cuts power to connected slave outlets, achieving power-saving through automated feedback control
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
The system addresses user convenience, security, and power-saving by automating outlet control, meeting green energy standards for standby power consumption below 1 W.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor, coupled to the master outlet, for receiving a feedback current from the master outlet
Implementation Method 2
an operational amplifier, coupled to the current sensor, for amplifying and comparing the sensing signal with a first reference voltage to output a first control signal
Implementation Method 3
a power switch, whose first end is coupled to the AC plug, and whose second end is coupled to the slave outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A master/slave outlet system includes at least one master outlet and at least one slave outlet. Moreover, the slave outlet is turned on to start the device connected to the slave outlet, while the master outlet supplies enough current to the device connected to the master outlet. Furthermore, the slave outlet is turned off to close the device connected to the slave outlet, while the device connected to the master outlet is shutdown or at sleep mode.