Outlet Circuit Mapping via Peer-to-Peer Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying outlets on a common power circuit are inefficient, often requiring extensive setup, multiple personnel, and are not scalable for mapping multiple outlets simultaneously, especially in older buildings with poorly documented electrical systems.
Innovation Solution
A peer-to-peer network of modules plugged into outlets that communicate through electrical wiring, using a signal generator to propagate a test signal and logic to detect and indicate whether outlets are on the same circuit, allowing for simultaneous identification without elaborate setup or travel to the circuit box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a commercially available device sends a signal over the electrical line from one outlet to the circuit breaker, then the mapping can be carried out by one person and is less time consuming for a single outlet, but the detectors cannot differentiate between signals from different modules, so multiple signal-sending modules cannot be detected in parallel
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the signal transmission by assigning each module a unique identifier and using individual signal channels. Each module transmits its signal separately with unique characteristics (frequency, code, or timing), allowing the circuit breaker detector to distinguish between multiple simultaneous signals from different outlets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary signaling system between outlets and the circuit breaker. Instead of direct detection, modules transmit signals through the electrical wiring infrastructure, and the circuit breaker detector receives and decodes these signals to establish the mapping relationship between outlets and circuit breakers.
2Device complexity
If the 'flipping switches and yelling' method is used to map circuit breakers to outlets, then no technology is required, but it is time consuming and requires two people
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical method of flipping switches and yelling with an electronic signaling system. Modules plugged into outlets automatically transmit electronic signals through the wiring, and detectors at the circuit breaker receive and identify these signals, eliminating the need for manual switch flipping and verbal communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service mapping by allowing modules to automatically transmit their identity and location information through the electrical wiring. The circuit breaker detector automatically receives and processes these signals, establishing the mapping without requiring human intervention in the actual mapping process.
3Productivity
If a hand-held computer is used to collect signals from multiple modules in parallel, then information about different outlets can be consolidated, but it requires an additional wire ('umbilical cord') that needs to be carried around the worksite and is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signaling function from the electrical power system and implements a separate communication channel using the existing wiring infrastructure. By taking out the signal transmission function and implementing it through dedicated signaling modules and detectors, the system eliminates the need for additional umbilical cords while maintaining parallel signal collection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the electrical wiring infrastructure multi-functional by using it for both power delivery and signal transmission. The same wiring that carries electrical power to outlets also carries the identification signals from modules to the circuit breaker detector, eliminating the need for separate communication wiring.
4Reliability
If existing methods are used to identify outlets on a common power circuit, then circuit mapping can be performed, but extensive setup and multiple personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having modules automatically transmit their identification and location information as soon as they are plugged into outlets. The circuit breaker detector is pre-configured to receive and process these signals, establishing the complete mapping before any actual circuit work begins, eliminating the need for extensive setup during the mapping process.
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
Enables efficient and scalable identification of outlets on the same circuit without the need for extensive setup or multiple personnel, allowing electricians to quickly determine which outlets are affected by circuit changes or intended to be turned off.
Implementation Method 1
A peer-to-peer network of modules plugged into outlets that communicate through electrical wiring, using a signal generator to propagate a test signal
Data Source
AI summary
A module is provided for identifying outlets on a common power circuit. The module comprises a connector adapted to electrically couple with an outlet, a signal generator electrically connected to the connector and adapted to send a signal through the connector into a power circuit in response to a predetermined discrete event, an indicator; and logic electrically connected to the connector and the indicator and adapted to detect a signal from another apparatus propagated on a common circuit and activate the indicator in response to the signal.