Modular Load Panel Control for Circuit Prioritization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load management systems are expensive, complex, and require significant disruption to existing electrical infrastructure, offering limited flexibility and requiring special inverters and circuit re-routing.
Innovation Solution
A modular load management system comprising compact modules that fit within standard AC distribution panels, featuring input and output terminals, disconnect switches, and current sensors, allowing for remote or local control and flexible configuration of circuit priorities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If commercialized load management products are used, then load management capabilities are provided, but the system becomes expensive and complex with significant infrastructure disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The load management system is divided into multiple independent modules, each handling specific circuits or functions. These modular units can be independently installed, configured, and managed within the electrical panel, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive load management capabilities across multiple circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The load management modules are designed to perform multiple functions including circuit monitoring, load prioritization, disconnect switching, and communication within a single integrated unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function, reducing system complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If special inverters and circuit re-routing are implemented, then critical loads protection is achieved, but infrastructure disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load management modules automatically monitor circuit conditions and execute disconnect operations based on pre-configured priorities and real-time status without requiring manual intervention or special inverter control. The system self-manages critical loads protection through automated detection and response to grid or battery status changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular load management units serve as intermediary devices installed within the existing electrical panel structure, mediating between the circuit breakers and the loads they protect. This intermediary approach enables critical loads protection without requiring physical re-routing of circuits or replacement of existing breakers.
3Ease of operation
If fixed priority levels are assigned during installation, then load prioritization is established, but system flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The load management system allows dynamic adjustment of circuit priorities and load management parameters after installation through remote configuration or local interface access. Priority levels, disconnect thresholds, and operational parameters can be modified in real-time to adapt to changing user needs, seasonal variations, or evolving energy production patterns without physical reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular load management system comprises one or more compact modules designed to fit in the wiring troughs of a standard AC distribution panel of a building. The modules include one or more input terminals to receive electrical power from one or more circuit breakers in the panel and deliver power to load circuits of the building via one or more output terminals. The modules contain at least one disconnect switch for disconnecting circuits from breakers in response to a remote or locally-generated control signal. The modules may also include current sensors on some or all terminals, such that power and energy flow may be monitored on a per-circuit basis.