Outlet Control Unit Power Management via Microprocessor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current centralized parking lot power control systems are costly to install and maintain, prone to abuse, and lack effective feedback mechanisms for users and maintenance personnel, leading to inefficiencies and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized system using microprocessor-controlled outlet and vehicle units that communicate via a connection cable, enabling flexible power management, enforcement of consumption limits, and feedback through LEDs and tones, with bi-directional infrared data communication for remote operation and data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If centralized contactor controls are used to manage parking lot power, then power distribution can be achieved, but installation and maintenance costs are substantial with payback periods of five years or more
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized contactor system into individual outlet control units, each independently managing power distribution for specific parking stalls. This segmentation eliminates the need for expensive centralized contactors while maintaining reliable power control through distributed microcontroller-based units.
2Use of energy by moving object
If power limits are imposed on each vehicle, then energy conservation is achieved, but users may abuse the limits to trip main breakers, inconveniencing all patrons
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit provides real-time feedback to users through visual (LED) and auditory (tone) signals when power limits are approached or exceeded. This feedback mechanism allows users to adjust their power consumption proactively, preventing breaker trips and maintaining convenience while achieving energy conservation goals.
3Reliability
If individual parking stall breakers are tripped due to overloads, then power protection is provided, but without feedback the stall may remain without power for several days
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors power status and provides immediate feedback through LED indicators to both users and maintenance personnel. When overloads or faults occur, the system instantly communicates the status, enabling rapid response and restoration of power, eliminating multi-day outages.
4Power
If mechanical contactors are used for power control, then power switching is achieved, but longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance adding to operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contactors with solid-state electronic switching components controlled by microcontrollers. This substitution eliminates the mechanical wear and maintenance requirements of traditional contactors while maintaining full power switching capability, significantly reducing operational costs.
5Reliability
If centralized controls disable entire parking lots for maintenance, then safety is ensured, but all outlets are disabled including those not requiring maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed control architecture allows individual outlet control units to be maintained or updated independently without affecting other outlets. This segmentation enables maintenance personnel to service specific units while keeping the rest of the parking lot operational, maintaining safety through controlled access while preserving outlet availability.
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
Reduces maintenance costs, enhances user service, prevents overloads and short circuits, and provides safe and efficient power distribution while allowing for customizable energy conservation algorithms and reduced manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
two light emitting diodes (LED's) are provided, one green the other red for each stall. As an example, when a user asserts a load the presence of power is identified by a quick flash of the green LED (load within acceptable limits) or the red LED is lit solidly (overload is rejected).
Implementation Method 2
A bi-directional infrared data communication interface for communication with service personnel.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supplying electrical power to a plurality of vehicles from a central power supply through a plurality of electrical outlets includes an outlet control unit for each of the outlets and a vehicle control unit for each of the vehicles. The outlet microprocessor switches the supply of power to the outlet to communicate data to the vehicle. The vehicle microprocessor communicates data by switching a load across the power supply to provide interaction between the microprocessors to manage requirement and availability of power. The data includes whether the power plant of the vehicle is gasoline powered, diesel powered, hybrid or electric battery powered. The microprocessor of the vehicle control unit is arranged to control switches which supply power to selected loads in the vehicle and includes an interface which is arranged to connect to a Canbus communication system of the vehicle.