Plug-In Power Monitoring Unit With Wireless Energy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power monitoring devices require specialist installation and are not readily integrated with smart energy controlling or general use communication equipment, lacking the ability to efficiently conserve and manage electrical power usage.
Innovation Solution
A power monitoring and signal unit with projecting connectors, sockets, transceiver circuitry for data transmission and reception, and sensors for environmental parameters, capable of switching power flow and communicating with a central control facility for intelligent power management and remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If power monitoring devices are installed to monitor power flow, then power use data can be obtained, but the devices require specialist installation and are not readily integrated with smart energy controlling or communication equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The power monitoring unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it monitors power flow through the unit, provides wireless communication capabilities via transceiver circuitry, and integrates with smart energy controlling equipment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialist monitoring devices and simplifies installation by combining monitoring and communication functions in a single plug-in unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring unit is designed to be self-installing by plugging into standard power outlets, eliminating the need for specialist installation. The unit automatically begins monitoring power flow and transmitting data without requiring professional setup, making the system accessible to general users.
2Loss of information
If traditional power monitoring devices are used, then power data can be collected, but they lack integration with smart energy controlling and communication equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The unit incorporates transceiver circuitry that enables wireless communication with mobile devices and integration with smart energy controlling systems. This allows the same device that monitors power flow to also transmit data and receive control commands, eliminating the need for separate communication equipment and enhancing system versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines power monitoring circuitry, wireless communication capabilities, and smart energy control integration into a single unified device. This merging of functions allows seamless data flow between monitoring, communication, and control systems, improving adaptability without requiring multiple separate components.
3Extent of automation
If power monitoring units with communication capabilities are implemented, then smart energy management is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating transceiver circuitry directly into the power monitoring unit, the system achieves automated smart energy management without requiring complex external communication infrastructure. The unit handles monitoring, data transmission, and control reception internally, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the advanced capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A power monitoring and signal unit provided with projecting connectors at a first face and sockets for receiving like connectors in a second opposite face, and circuitry for monitoring power flow through said unit when projecting connectors are plugged into a mains power outlet; said unit further provided with transceiver circuitry for the transmission and reception of data including command and control data. The power monitoring and signal unit may be in communication with a programmable sensor device comprising an individual signal unit registered by an owner of individual signal unit with a central control facility; The individual signal unit communicates with central control facility when an event sensor activates said individual signal unit; central control facility executing a user-assembled schedule of predefined steps on receipt of a communication from individual signal unit, predefined steps configured or re configurable by an owner of said individual signal unit from a website.