Sequential Load Power-Up for Stable Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power distribution systems, especially those with limited peak power capability or high source impedance, experience abnormal operation when multiple loads, such as lighting systems, power up simultaneously, leading to voltage fluctuations and potential system overload.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for sequentially powering up electrical loads to prevent abnormal operation, using load control devices that receive a control signal from the power distribution system to turn on loads in a predetermined sequence after the system stabilizes, thereby reducing the initial power demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If all loads are powered up concurrently, then the lighting control system can be activated quickly, but the power distribution system experiences voltage fluctuations and abnormal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the simultaneous startup of all loads into sequential segments. The controller activates loads one by one in a predetermined sequence rather than all at once, segmenting the inrush current demand over time. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining quick overall startup while preventing voltage fluctuations that would occur with concurrent activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary actions by activating loads in a predetermined sequence before the full system is operational. The controller is activated first, then systematically enables each load control device in sequence. This preliminary staged activation prevents the power distribution system from being overwhelmed while ensuring complete system startup.
2Power
If the power distribution system has limited peak power capability, then the system can be more compact and cost-effective, but it becomes susceptible to abnormal operation when loads power up simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power demand by activating loads sequentially rather than simultaneously. This allows a power distribution system with limited peak power capability to handle each load's inrush current separately over time, preventing the cumulative overload that would occur with concurrent startup. The system remains compact and cost-effective while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements periodic action by activating loads at predetermined time intervals in a sequence. Each load is activated for a brief period before the next load is activated, creating a periodic pattern of power demand. This allows the limited peak power capability system to manage inrush currents effectively without compromising stability.
3Device complexity
If the power distribution system has high source impedance, then the system can be simpler in design, but it becomes more susceptible to voltage fluctuations in response to load current changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by activating loads sequentially through the controller, which divides the total load current demand into discrete time-separated portions. This prevents large simultaneous current changes that would cause voltage fluctuations in a high source impedance system. The system design remains simple while voltage stability is maintained through the staged activation approach.
4Adaptability or versatility
If lighting loads are turned on to the last lighting intensity, then the system restores previous operational state, but it draws substantially large inrush current that can overload the power distribution system
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary action by activating loads in a predetermined sequence rather than immediately restoring all loads to their last intensity settings simultaneously. Each load is activated in sequence, allowing the power distribution system to stabilize between activations. This maintains the adaptability to restore operational states while preventing inrush current overload through staged activation.
Data Source
AI summary
Power distribution systems that have a limited peak power capability or a high source impedance, such as site supply generators, are often susceptible to abnormal operation in response to the current drawn at power up from the loads connected to the power distribution system. The present invention provides a lighting control system operable to power up a plurality of the lighting loads in sequence to reduce stress on the power distribution system. The lighting loads are each turned on as part of a startup sequence at predetermined times after an output voltage of the power distribution system has stabilized. The lighting control system is operable to begin the startup sequence in response to receiving a control signal representative that the power distribution system has stabilized. The lighting loads are each controlled by a lighting control module, which is operable to wait for a predetermined amount of time for the startup sequence to begin before turning on the lighting loads.