Smart Receptacle Load Monitoring for Selective Brownout Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems face challenges in efficiently managing and controlling electricity delivery, particularly during peak usage periods, leading to indiscriminate power interruptions and safety issues due to the lack of intelligent monitoring and control at the consumer level.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of intelligent circuit devices, such as smart electrical outlets, that can monitor load connections and control power distribution using network messaging protocols like TCP/IP, enabling remote operation and efficient power management by analyzing electrical signatures and implementing policies for power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power distribution systems are used during peak usage periods, then power delivery continues without intelligent control, but power interruptions occur and grid capacity is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into intelligent circuit devices (outlets, breakers, switches) that can independently monitor and control power delivery. Each device operates autonomously or in coordination with others, allowing granular control over power distribution to prevent over-capacity conditions while maintaining reliable delivery to individual circuits.
2Productivity
If rolling blackouts are implemented to address over-capacity conditions, then overall grid load is reduced, but power interruptions affect consumers indiscriminately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by enabling different control strategies at different locations in the power distribution system. Intelligent circuit devices can be configured with specific policies (e.g., critical load identification, time-based control, demand-response participation) that tailor power management to local needs, ensuring critical facilities maintain power while non-critical loads are managed during peak periods.
3Ease of operation
If intelligent circuit devices with network messaging capabilities are implemented, then remote monitoring and control are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing intelligent circuit devices that perform multiple functions: power distribution, load monitoring, electrical signature analysis, network communication (TCP/IP), and policy-based control. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate systems into integrated devices, managing complexity through consolidation while enabling comprehensive remote monitoring and control capabilities.
4Measurement precision
If electrical signature analysis is used to identify connected devices, then power management precision is improved, but measurement and detection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having the intelligent circuit device automatically perform electrical signature analysis on connected loads. The device continuously monitors electrical characteristics (current waveform, harmonic content, power factor) and autonomously identifies device types and states without requiring manual intervention or complex external measurement systems, thereby improving precision while managing detection complexity through automated operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system (300) allows recognized standard premise electrical outlets, for example NEMA, CEE and BS, among others to be remotely monitored and/or controlled, for example, to intelligently execute blackouts or brownouts or to otherwise remotely control electrical devices. The system (300) includes a number of smart receptacles (302) that communicate with a local controller (304), e.g., via power lines using the TCP/IP protocol. The local controller (304), in turn, communicates with a remote controller (308) via the internet.