Program Controlled Circuit Breaker for Dynamic Energy Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional residential electric systems require additional hardware and increased costs for installing backup power supplies or renewable energy systems, and current grid tie renewable electric systems are not effectively utilized due to hardwired connections, which also hinder energy efficiency monitoring and control.
Innovation Solution
An automatic local electric management system featuring a main power bus, program controlled circuit breakers, and a controller that selectively connects and disconnects power to manage energy distribution, enabling efficient use of renewable energy systems and reducing installation costs by eliminating the need for additional wiring and infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardwired connections are used in conventional residential electric systems, then system stability and safety are improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase when adding backup power supply or renewable energy systems
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit breaker is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional circuit protection and dynamic power management for backup power supplies and renewable energy systems. By integrating these functions into a single device, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated components, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining system stability
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit breaker incorporates dynamic switching capability that allows it to adapt its connection state based on power source availability and system needs. This dynamic behavior enables seamless integration of backup power supplies and renewable energy systems without requiring complex hardwired configurations, as the breaker automatically manages power flow between different sources
2Reliability
If hardwired connections are used in conventional residential electric systems, then electrical safety is improved, but adaptability for monitoring and controlling energy usage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit breaker integrates monitoring capabilities that continuously track power consumption and system status, providing feedback information for energy management decisions. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adaptively control energy usage while maintaining the electrical safety of hardwired connections, as the monitoring occurs through the existing circuit breaker infrastructure without requiring additional wiring
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit breaker serves dual purposes: maintaining circuit protection for electrical safety and providing energy monitoring and control functions. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve adaptability for energy management while preserving the safety benefits of traditional hardwired connections, as both functions are integrated into the single breaker device
3Loss of energy
If grid tie renewable electric systems are used, then energy efficiency is improved, but system reliability during power outages deteriorates due to islanding shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit breaker implements dynamic islanding detection and controlled isolation. When a power outage is detected, the breaker dynamically adjusts its switching state to maintain connection for essential loads while preventing dangerous feedback to the utility grid. This dynamic control allows the renewable energy system to continue operating efficiently during outages without the mandatory shutdown that plagues conventional grid-tie systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different connection states to different parts of the electrical system during outages. The circuit breaker selectively maintains power connection for critical local loads while isolating non-essential portions and preventing grid feedback. This localized quality control enables continued energy efficiency for essential loads while ensuring safety and reliability during power outages
Data Source
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AI summary
An automatic local electric management system provides a comprehensive method and apparatus for consumers to more efficiently use energy. The system includes an intelligent service panel, numerous smart connectors, and system operation software. The intelligent service panel comprises microcontrollers, program controlled circuit breakers, sensors, and various interface and control circuits. By automatically monitoring power consumption and dynamically controlling the power connection to the grid and branch power lines, the intelligent service panel reduces unnecessary power consumption, eliminates the need for the subservices panel, the transfer switch, and additional wiring that is required for installing a local generator or renewable energy electric system. A smart connector can be used to monitor and control the power consumption of the appliance individually. The system operation software enables the intelligent service panel to communicate with smart appliances, smart connectors, local computer, remote servers, or the utility grid.