Smart Grid Device Power Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The introduction of smart grids for efficient electric power use has created a need for technologies that can efficiently control home electronic devices based on varying electricity rates, as existing solutions fail to effectively manage power consumption during high-demand periods.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device equipped with a communication unit to receive per-time slot electricity rate and power demand information, a controller to provide a source list of alternative devices for content output, and a user interface to inquire about stopping content output during high-rate time slots, allowing users to switch to devices with lower power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the electronic device continues to output content during high-rate time slots, then the user can maintain continuous content viewing, but electricity costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives power information in advance and identifies alternative sources before the high-rate time slot begins. When a high-rate time slot is detected, the system proactively provides a source list to the user, enabling them to switch to alternative content sources before the expensive period starts, thus preventing high electricity costs while maintaining viewing continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the content output unit and the power consumption issue. By introducing the source list mechanism, it mediates the conflict between continuous content delivery and electricity cost reduction, allowing users to make informed decisions about content sourcing during high-rate periods without interrupting their viewing experience.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the electronic device switches to alternative content sources during high-rate time slots, then electricity costs are reduced, but the user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by providing detailed source information only when needed (during high-rate time slots) rather than always displaying complex interface elements. The source list is generated selectively based on power information, keeping the interface simple during normal operation and only adding complexity when cost-saving actions are required.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically monitors power information and generates the source list without requiring user intervention. The system serves itself by detecting high-rate periods and proactively presenting switching options, reducing the burden on the user while still providing the necessary functionality to reduce power consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic device provides real-time source list information, then users can make informed decisions to save power, but the system requires more complex communication capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The communication unit is designed to perform multiple functions: receiving power information from the smart grid, obtaining content source information, and providing this data to the user. By making the communication unit universal and multi-functional, the system avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while still providing comprehensive real-time information to users.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device and a method of controlling the electronic device are provided. Based on smart grid information received from a smart grid network, contents are played by an electronic device that consumes less power at a time slot during which a high electricity rate applies, thus minimizing electricity fees.