Rule-Based Smart Power Strip for Adaptive Outlet Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power strips lack the capability to control power distribution to secondary outlets based on predefined rules, user preferences, or smart grid information.
Innovation Solution
A power strip equipped with a controller that regulates electricity distribution to its outlets based on a set of rules, including electricity rate information, user preferences, time/day information, and smart grid data, and can receive feedback from energy-consuming devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a power strip is equipped with a controller and rule-based power distribution capability, then energy management efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary component that mediates between the power source and connected devices. This controller processes rule-based logic and status information to make intelligent power distribution decisions, thereby improving energy management efficiency while containing complexity within a dedicated control module rather than distributing it throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The power strip system enables self-service through automated rule-based control that operates without continuous user intervention. The controller automatically monitors status information, evaluates rules, and adjusts power distribution accordingly, allowing the system to manage its own energy consumption patterns while maintaining simplicity for the end user.
2Adaptability or versatility
If real-time status information and feedback mechanisms are integrated, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller receives status information from connected devices and uses this information to dynamically adjust power distribution. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to changing conditions and device states, improving versatility while managing complexity through structured information processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The power strip transitions from a static power distribution device to a dynamic system that can adapt its behavior based on real-time conditions. The controller dynamically adjusts power delivery according to evaluated rules and status information, enabling the system to respond flexibly to different scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple underlying hardware architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A power strip includes a controller that controls the transfer of electricity to one or more outlet electrical connectors based at least in part on a set of rules and certain status information. Some embodiments provide for apparatuses and methods of controlling the transfer of electricity to one or more outlet electrical connectors of a power strip based on various status information, such as cost, personal preferences, time information, power consumption.