Protective Mesh Array for Modular Branch Circuit Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Branch circuit systems in buildings are inefficient due to their complexity, requiring large conductive elements and breakers, and are difficult to manage with the ever-changing electrical codes, leading to challenges in safely accommodating various loads and preventing electrical shocks and fires.
Innovation Solution
A peer-to-peer power distribution network using a protective mesh array with standardized conductive elements and circuit opening devices, which forms a single protective mesh across panels to distribute power efficiently and safely, allowing for decentralized power sharing and protection from excess current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If branch circuit systems use large conductive elements and breakers to protect smaller parallel conductive elements, then safety and protection are improved, but system complexity and material requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical distribution system into modular units (panels with mesh sections) that can be independently configured and protected. Each panel contains its own circuit opening devices and conductive elements, segmenting the overall system into manageable modules rather than requiring a monolithic complex system with centralized large breakers protecting all smaller circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal mesh sections that can serve multiple functions: distributing power to multiple circuits, providing protection through integrated circuit opening devices, and maintaining system safety without requiring separate dedicated protection devices for each circuit. The standardized mesh sections can be used across different panels and configurations, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If branch circuit systems accommodate a myriad of possible circuits and loads, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but design complexity and code compliance difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical distribution into standardized mesh sections that can be independently configured within panels. Each mesh section can accommodate different circuit configurations and loads, allowing versatility at the module level while maintaining simplicity through standardization. This segmentation enables flexible accommodation of various circuits without requiring complex overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for parameter changes in the mesh sections, such as varying the number and arrangement of conductive elements, circuit opening devices, and panel configurations. This enables the system to adapt to different load requirements and circuit configurations while maintaining a standardized base design, reducing code compliance complexity through controlled parameter variation.
3Manufacturing precision
If branch circuit systems use multiple sizes and types of wire and circuit opening devices, then protection precision is improved, but manufacturing and installation complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal standardized mesh sections with consistent conductive elements and circuit opening devices that can be used across all panels. This standardization maintains protection precision through uniform design while dramatically simplifying manufacturing and installation processes. The same mesh section design can be replicated across multiple panels without requiring different wire sizes or breaker types for different circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent promotes homogeneity by using identical or similar mesh sections throughout the electrical distribution system. All panels contain the same standardized components with consistent wire gauges, circuit opening devices, and structural elements. This homogeneous approach ensures adequate protection precision while eliminating the need for multiple component types, simplifying manufacturing and installation.
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
The protective mesh array simplifies electrical power distribution, reduces the need for multiple wire sizes and breaker types, and enhances safety by providing automatic protection against excess current, making it easier to manage and design electrical systems in buildings.
Implementation Method 1
a mesh section forming two or more electrical paths that are each electrically protected to prevent an excess current from reaching the one or more power devices
Implementation Method 2
each of the links comprising at least one conductive element and at least one circuit opening device
Data Source
AI summary
A protective mesh system for distributing electrical power. The protective mesh system may include a body that supports and positions a protective mesh within its outer edges. The protective mesh may be of a single polarity and includes conductors and circuit opening devices. The protective mesh may provide for connecting to one or more power devices. One or more connectors may be electrically connected to the protective mesh and positioned along one or more of the edges of the body. The connectors may provide for connecting to an external power source.