Single-Input Power Meter Using Outlet Voltage Reference
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power consumption measurement devices in residential applications require high voltage connections, making them less accurate and more hazardous to install, as they typically need two voltage references, which complicates compliance with safety regulations and often result in assumed voltage values rather than actual measurements.
Innovation Solution
A device that measures power consumption using voltage from a standard outlet and separate current inputs via current transformers, eliminating the need for high voltage connections by utilizing the relationship where V1 equals −V2, allowing for accurate calculation of power consumption using the simplified equation Energy≡∫V1·I1−V1·I2dt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two voltage references are used for accurate power measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase due to requiring high voltage connections in the distribution panel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the voltage measurement function from the distribution panel connections and relocates it to the outlet-level power supply. By using the already-present outlet voltage as the reference, the solution eliminates the need to open the distribution panel and make high voltage connections, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the outlet voltage as an intermediary reference that bridges the gap between the distribution panel and the measurement device. This intermediary allows the system to obtain accurate voltage references without directly connecting to high voltage sources in the panel, solving the contradiction between accuracy and installation complexity
2Measurement precision
If high voltage connections are made in the distribution panel, then measurement precision is improved, but safety risks and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the voltage reference function from the high voltage distribution panel environment and relocates it to the low voltage outlet environment. This extraction eliminates the need for electricians to work with high voltage connections, thereby reducing safety risks while maintaining the ability to measure voltage accurately for power consumption calculations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the readily available outlet voltage as a disposable, safe reference source instead of requiring permanent high voltage connections. The outlet voltage is already present in the installation, requiring no additional high voltage wiring or panel modifications, thus eliminating safety hazards associated with high voltage work
3Ease of operation
If assumed voltage values are used instead of actual measurements, then installation simplicity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to self-provide accurate voltage references by utilizing the outlet voltage that is already present in the installation. The system serves itself by using the existing power supply voltage as the reference, eliminating the need for manual high voltage connections while also avoiding the need to assume fixed voltage values, thus achieving both installation simplicity and measurement precision
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
This approach enables safer, more accurate power consumption measurement in residential settings, as it allows for easy installation by most handy-men and provides precise calculations without the need for high voltage connections, improving measurement accuracy and user interface for power consumption data communication.
Implementation Method 1
The current values can be provided to the metering microcontroller unit via first and second current transformers connected to respective lines supplying power to the household
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for more accurately measuring power consumption in a residential application without having to make connections to high voltage sources in a distribution panel. Since the device calculating the power consumption generally needs to be powered to perform its functions (e.g., plugged into wall outlet), the disclosure utilizes the power supply as a voltage source for measuring voltage without having to make connections to the panel.