Power Broker Module Energy Distribution for Thermostats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart devices face challenges in efficiently managing and distributing limited energy sources among peripherals, leading to potential operational disruptions and reduced functionality, especially in battery-powered or energy-harvesting devices that require smart energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A power broker module that analyzes available energy sources and manages energy distribution by approving or denying requests from peripherals based on energy availability and priority, switching between sources like batteries, energy harvesting modules, and power lines, and implementing various power schemes to conserve energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If multiple energy sources are used to power peripherals, then the operational duration is extended, but the energy management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power broker acts as an intermediary between multiple energy sources and peripherals. It centralizes the management of energy from batteries, energy harvesting modules, and power line sources, making allocation decisions based on priority and availability without requiring each peripheral to independently manage multiple power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by adjusting the power allocation to peripherals based on current energy availability and priority levels. The power broker modifies which peripherals receive power and at what level, optimizing operational duration under varying energy conditions.
2Reliability
If energy is allocated based on priority, then critical functions are maintained, but the system response time may be delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The power broker pre-establishes priority levels for different peripherals and energy sources before energy shortages occur. This preliminary classification allows for rapid decision-making during power constraints, as the allocation hierarchy is already determined and does not require real-time complex analysis.
3Loss of energy
If power usage is strictly controlled, then energy conservation is improved, but the user experience may be degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The power allocation system is dynamic rather than static. The power broker continuously monitors energy availability and adjusts power distribution in real-time, allowing the system to provide full functionality when energy is abundant while conserving energy when resources are limited, thus adapting to changing conditions without permanently degrading user experience.
Data Source
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AI summary
A processor and power broker for controlling the obtaining, distribution and usage of electrical power for electronic devices such as peripherals of thermostats. Sources of power may incorporate batteries, energy harvesting modules, energy storage capacitors, and power lines. The power broker may maintain charge on the capacitors, operate the energy harvesting modules, control usage of the batteries, and utilize power line sources when available. Loads such as the peripherals may need to request approval for energy usage. Energy usage and conservation may be managed by the power broker according to a power scheme. A power scheme may consist of a set of rules as to how energy usage by the peripherals is to be managed. The rules may also indicate as to how the energy sources are managed.