Smart Plug Coordination for Single-Input Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems require separate operations for turning on/off power to an apparatus and its connected smart plug, which is cumbersome for users.
Innovation Solution
An information processing system that associates the identification information of an external apparatus and a smart plug, allowing simultaneous control of both via a single instruction input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If power supply to the apparatus is controlled via a smart plug, then standby power consumption is reduced, but the user must individually operate both the apparatus and smart plug which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of the smart plug and the apparatus into a single integrated control system. The control unit can receive a single user input and simultaneously control both the smart plug (power supply) and the apparatus operation, eliminating the need for separate individual operations while maintaining energy savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle both power supply control (via smart plug) and apparatus operation control. This universal control mechanism allows a single input to trigger multiple coordinated actions, reducing operational complexity while achieving energy conservation goals.
2Loss of energy
If the apparatus operates in standby mode to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency improves, but the apparatus cannot respond immediately to user requests which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary actions by pre-processing user requests and preparing control commands while the apparatus is in standby mode. When a user request is received, the control unit can quickly execute pre-prepared commands, enabling fast response times even when the apparatus itself remains in low-power standby state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time conditions. The control unit can transition the apparatus from standby to active state rapidly when needed, while maintaining standby mode during idle periods. This dynamic state management allows the system to optimize between energy consumption and response time based on actual usage patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing system includes a processor configured to store identification information of an external apparatus and identification information of a smart plug that is capable of changing a supply status of power to the external apparatus in accordance with an instruction from outside in association with each other, and control the external apparatus and the smart plug corresponding to the external apparatus in accordance with one instruction input to the external apparatus.