Sequenced Power Outlet Control Under Charging Capacity Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Co-located battery-powered electrical equipment often competes for limited electrical infrastructure resources, leading to inefficiencies in charging and equipment unavailability due to power availability and infrastructure limitations, requiring manual scheduling that can result in some equipment remaining uncharged.
Innovation Solution
A smart controller device with a sequencer module that sequences power to multiple outlets based on configurable conditions, such as time duration and current draw, ensuring all equipment is charged efficiently by turning outlets on and off in a sequence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If manual switching of charging equipment is implemented to stay within power availability limits, then power consumption is controlled, but charging efficiency decreases and equipment availability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated power sequencing control that eliminates manual switching. The controller automatically monitors power availability, device charging status, and dynamically adjusts power distribution to multiple outlets based on real-time conditions, enabling the system to manage its own power allocation without human intervention while optimizing charging efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring power consumption levels, charging device status, and power availability at the location. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust the power sequencing strategy, ensuring that power distribution adapts to changing conditions while maintaining optimal charging efficiency and staying within power limits
2Loss of energy
If manual switching of charging equipment is implemented to stay within power availability limits, then power consumption is controlled, but equipment availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated power sequencing system performs self-service by continuously monitoring which devices are connected, their charging status, and power availability. It automatically adjusts power distribution to ensure all connected equipment receives appropriate power without manual intervention, thereby maintaining high equipment availability while controlling overall power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies dynamics by making power distribution flexible and adaptive rather than static. The power sequencing controller dynamically adjusts which outlets receive power based on real-time conditions including device connectivity, charging needs, and available power capacity, ensuring equipment availability is maximized within power constraints
3Reliability
If power is delivered to multiple outlets simultaneously, then all equipment can be charged, but total power demand exceeds infrastructure limits
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by dividing the total power demand into sequential time segments. Instead of delivering power to all outlets simultaneously, the controller distributes power to multiple outlets in a sequenced manner over time, with each outlet receiving power during its designated time slot. This segmentation allows all equipment to be charged eventually while keeping instantaneous power demand within infrastructure limits
Solution Approach 2:
The power sequencing system implements periodic action by cycling through multiple outlets in a repeating sequence. Each outlet receives power for a predetermined duration, then the controller transitions to the next outlet in the sequence. This periodic power delivery ensures all connected equipment receives charging opportunities while the total power demand at any given moment remains within the infrastructure's capacity limits
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for configurable sequencing of power across multiple outlets suitable for connecting to multiple device/equipment chargers. A smart controller device comprises a power input port, a plurality of power outlets, and a sequencer module. The sequencer module is configured to route power from the power input port to a first one or more of the plurality of power outlets until a sequencing condition is detected. Upon detecting the sequencing condition, the sequencer module discontinues routing of power to the first one or more of the plurality of power outlets, and routes power from the power input port to a second one or more of the plurality of power outlets based on the configured sequence.