Occupancy-Sensing Power Outlet for Group Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for efficient electrical power and data systems in group seating areas that can provide on-demand charging for portable electronic devices while minimizing energy waste by only energizing outlets in use, and enable electronic data communications between devices and venue networks.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a DC power supply, occupancy sensors, a main power line, and branch power lines with a controller that energizes power outputs only when seats are occupied, and establishes two-way electronic communications between devices and the data network using direct-contact or wireless interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power outlets are continuously energized in group seating areas, then users can access power at any time, but energy is wasted through vampire power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power outlet state based on real-time occupancy detection. When a sensor detects a user approaching or seated, the system activates power outlets in that zone. When no users are present, outlets are de-energized. This dynamic on-demand power delivery eliminates continuous vampire power consumption while ensuring power is instantly available when users arrive.
2Loss of energy
If power outlets are only activated when occupancy is detected, then energy waste is reduced, but power delivery response time may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect user approach in advance of actual seating. When a user is detected approaching the seating area, the system pre-activates power outlets before the user actually sits down. This preliminary action ensures that when the user arrives and sits, power is already available immediately, eliminating any perceived delay while still maintaining energy efficiency by not keeping all outlets continuously powered.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If DC low voltage power is used instead of AC high voltage, then safety is improved and DC power can be delivered directly to devices, but a power converter is required for AC inputs
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the AC-to-DC power conversion function into a centralized power supply unit that serves the entire seating area. Instead of requiring individual converters at each outlet or device, one centralized converter transforms AC input to DC output, which is then distributed through low-voltage wiring to multiple power outlets. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining safety benefits of low-voltage DC distribution.
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
This solution provides on-demand electrical charging and data communications, reducing energy consumption by only powering occupied seats and enabling useful information exchange and device control, while optimizing power utilization and data networking in group seating areas.
Implementation Method 1
occupancy sensors such as seat pressure sensors
Implementation Method 2
a DC power supply, which may be capable of converting an AC voltage input to a DC low voltage output
Implementation Method 3
A switch energizes and de-energizes the electrical power output in response to the occupancy signal
Implementation Method 4
electrical power outputs that supply electrical charging power to a portable electronic communications device
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power and data system for group seating arrangements includes a DC power supply for converting an AC voltage input to a DC low voltage output, a low voltage main line and at least one branch line with a power output in communication with the DC output, and an occupancy sensor at a seating area for generating an occupancy signal. The power output of the branch line positionable at the seating area, and configured to supply power to a portable electronic communications device. A switch energizes and de-energizes the electrical power output in response to the occupancy signal, and the branch line, main line, and DC power supply cooperate to provide electronic communications between the portable electronic device and the electronic data network when the DC power supply is energized.