Remote Power Control for GFCI Devices via Wi-Fi

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems fail to provide remote control and power management for electrically powered devices equipped with GFCI or surge protectors, leading to inefficiencies and potential spoilage due to prolonged power disruptions.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing Wi-Fi management with a web-based interface, incorporating a processor and transceiver within a housing with GFCI or surge protector capabilities, allowing remote control and power restoration to electrically powered devices via a network, using an 802.11 communication format.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a GFCI or surge protector disables electrical power to prevent electrocution or damage, then safety and device protection are improved, but power disruption duration increases and may cause spoilage of goods

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesafetyVSAvoidpower disruption duration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the electrical state through the GFCI/surge protector and automatically notifying the user via text message or email when power is disabled. This feedback loop allows users to respond promptly to power disruptions, reducing the time goods are without power while maintaining safety protections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary communication layer (text message/email notification system) between the GFCI/surge protector and the user. This intermediary enables remote awareness of power status without requiring the user to be physically present at the device, allowing faster response to power disruptions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If remote control capability is added to GFCI or surge protector, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system achieves remote control functionality by integrating multiple functions into the existing GFCI/surge protector infrastructure: safety protection, status monitoring, and remote notification. Rather than adding separate complex control systems, the patent leverages existing communication protocols (text messages, emails) to provide universal remote access capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where the GFCI/surge protector automatically detects power disruptions and sends notifications without requiring user intervention. Users can remotely check status and receive alerts through standard communication channels, eliminating the need for complex manual control interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9007186B1Method and apparatus for controlling power to a device

Publication Date: 2015.04.14 BEST ENERGY REDUCTION TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

A system and method for remotely controlling power to an electrically powered device having a GFCI or surge protector is disclosed herein. The system preferably comprises an apparatus, an electrically-powered device and a controller. The apparatus preferably comprises a cord, an alternating current outlet socket, an alternating current input plug, a latching relay, a GFCI or surge protector, a processor and a transceiver. The system preferably uses a WiFi communication signal to transmit commands from the remote controller to the apparatus.