Modular Lighting Panel for Centralized AC/DC Power Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical panels are inefficient and bulky due to remote power conversion and load control functionality, leading to expensive and complex lighting fixtures, and there is a need for flexible power distribution systems that can handle AC and DC power sources, especially with the rise of renewable energy systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical panel system that integrates power supplies and control modules to manage AC and DC power, allowing for centralized power conversion and control, reducing the need for local hardware and enabling direct DC power distribution, with modules configured to provide regulated power and communication to electrical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power conversion and load control functionality are located remotely at the electrical load, then the electrical panel structure is simple, but the lighting fixtures become expensive and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power conversion and load control functionality into the electrical panel itself, merging previously separate functions (panel power distribution with load control) into a single integrated system. This eliminates the need for remote power conversion hardware at each lighting fixture, reducing fixture complexity and cost while maintaining simple panel structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If AC power is used for electrical distribution, then compatibility with existing infrastructure is maintained, but efficiency is reduced due to rectification and power factor correction requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic power distribution system that can adaptively switch between AC and DC power sources based on availability and efficiency requirements. The system dynamically selects power sources (mains AC, solar DC, or battery DC) and adjusts operation mode to optimize efficiency while maintaining infrastructure compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical panel is designed with universal power input capabilities to accept both AC and DC power sources. The panel includes multiple power inputs (AC mains, solar array DC, battery bank DC) and can operate with any combination of these sources, making the system adaptable to various infrastructure configurations while enabling efficient DC operation when available.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power sources (AC, DC, battery) are integrated into the panel, then system versatility and emergency power capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into distinct functional modules within the panel: AC power input module, DC power input module, battery bank interface module, power conversion modules, and load control modules. Each module is independently configurable and can be enabled or disabled based on the specific installation requirements, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes preliminary configuration capabilities where power source preferences, emergency power settings, and load priorities are pre-configured during installation. The panel automatically detects available power sources and configures operation modes in advance, eliminating the need for complex real-time decision-making and reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein provide examples of an electrical panel (e.g., a modular electrical panel) that is configured to control a plurality of electrical loads. The electrical panel may include a control circuit, memory, a communication circuit, and an alternating current (AC) line feed and/or a direct current (DC) line feed. The electrical panel may also include a plurality of power supplies and a plurality of control modules, where more than one control module is associated with each of the plurality of power supplies. Each control module may configured to receive DC power from the associated power supply and provide an output voltage to at least one electrical load. The electrical panel provides flexibility as to whether each stage of conversion, regulation, and/or control is performed at a control module located within the electrical panel or performed at an accessory module located at an electrical load.