User-Detected Smart Outlet Configuration for Energy Usage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household electric devices with increasing internet connectivity and smart capabilities require customized power management without the need for extensive rewiring, as existing systems lack individual outlet control and data collection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Modular power outlet devices with integrated wireless functionality, allowing for customized control and data collection at each outlet, including temperature sensing and communication with a centralized thermostat, and enabling remote power control and usage monitoring through a wireless network interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular outlet devices with wireless functionality are implemented, then individual outlet control and data collection capabilities are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet device is divided into modular components including a faceplate, outlet module, and wireless communication module. Each module can be independently installed, configured, and controlled, enabling individual outlet customization without increasing overall system complexity. The segmentation allows flexible adaptation to different user needs while maintaining manageable device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet device integrates multiple functions including power distribution, wireless communication (WiFi, Bluetooth), temperature sensing, and remote control capabilities into a single universal platform. This multi-functionality enables individual outlet control and data collection without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function, thereby managing complexity through consolidation of diverse capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If wireless network interface and sensors are integrated into each outlet, then monitoring capabilities are enhanced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet device incorporates self-powered sensing capabilities where the temperature sensors and wireless communication modules are powered directly from the electrical outlet's power lines through power extraction circuits. This eliminates the need for separate battery compartments, wiring for sensor power, and associated maintenance, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining precise monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses wireless communication modules as intermediaries to transmit sensor data and control signals between the outlet devices and the centralized control system. This wireless intermediary approach eliminates the need for complex wired sensor networks, reducing installation and manufacturing costs while preserving precise temperature monitoring and control capabilities.
3Productivity
If multiple outlets are integrated into a centralized system, then energy management efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized energy management system implements continuous feedback loops where each outlet device reports its power consumption, temperature, and operational status to the central controller. The central controller analyzes this feedback data and automatically adjusts power distribution, identifies energy waste, and optimizes system performance. This feedback mechanism improves energy management efficiency while keeping system complexity manageable through automated decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized system dynamically adapts its control strategies based on real-time data from multiple outlets. Power distribution, temperature thresholds, and monitoring intervals are automatically adjusted according to usage patterns, time of day, and environmental conditions. This dynamic behavior enables efficient energy management across the entire system without requiring complex static configuration for each possible scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
Audio tones are detected by a device. An identifier of a user is extracted from the audio tones. The identifier of the user and status information associated with the device are transmitted to a remote server. The device is configured based on a rule received from the remote server, wherein the rule is based on times series data received from the device and indicative of usage of the device by the user.