Smart Power Outlet Detects Standby Load to Cut Energy Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical products often consume energy even when turned off but still plugged in, leading to inefficiencies in energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A power outlet device with a socket assembly, switch, detecting circuit, controller, and sensor that detects power values to determine if devices are in standby mode and automatically turns off power to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical products remain plugged in after turning off working power, then convenience of use is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power outlet device automatically detects the power consumption state of connected electrical products and autonomously controls power supply without requiring user intervention. The detecting circuit monitors power values, the controller compares detected values against thresholds, and the switch automatically cuts or restores power based on whether devices are in standby or working mode, enabling the system to serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the detecting circuit continuously monitors power consumption at the outlet, feeds this information to the controller, which then adjusts the switch state accordingly. When standby power exceeds a threshold, the system cuts power; when working power is detected, power is restored, creating a dynamic feedback-controlled power management system
2Loss of energy
If automatic power detection and control is implemented, then energy saving is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power outlet device is divided into functionally independent modules: a socket assembly for power connection, a detecting circuit for power value detection, a controller for decision-making, and a switch for power control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability despite the added complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The power outlet device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it provides standard power outlet functionality, automatically detects power consumption states, compares detected values against thresholds, and controls power supply accordingly. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into one integrated system
Data Source
AI summary
A power outlet device including a first socket assembly coupled to an external power, a first switch, a detecting circuit coupled to the first socket assembly through the first switch, a controller is electrically coupled to the first switch and the detecting circuit, and a sensor is provided. The first switch is electrically coupled to the first socket assembly for turning on or oft power supply of the external power to the first socket assembly. The detecting circuit detects a first power value of the first socket assembly. A second power value of the first socket assembly is detected after detecting the first power value. The controller read the first and second power value. A first signal is received by the sensor for transmitting to the controller. The controller turns on or off the first switch according to the first signal, the first and second power value. A controlling method of the power outlet device is further provided.