Wireless Load Management via Portable Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional power management systems lack flexibility in managing multiple loads connected to generators, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for larger, noisier generators to handle higher power demands.
Innovation Solution
A load management system that includes a portable receptacle with a switch and antenna, allowing users to control and prioritize individual devices without rewiring, connected to a load management controller that manages devices based on power availability and generator capacity, enabling efficient power distribution across multiple devices on the same branch circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the amount of rated power of the generator is increased to handle higher power demands, then the power capacity is improved, but the size, weight, cost, and noise of the generator increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the power management by dividing circuits into controlled and uncontrolled categories, and further divides controlled circuits into high-priority and low-priority groups. This segmentation allows the generator to serve only the essential segmented portions of the load, reducing the total power capacity needed compared to serving all loads simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality by assigning different priority levels to different circuits or devices. Critical loads receive high priority and remain powered during generator operation, while non-critical loads receive low priority and may be shed. This differential treatment allows the generator to be sized for only the critical portion of the total load.
2Power
If the amount of rated power of the generator is increased to handle higher power demands, then the power capacity is improved, but the noise produced by the engine increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting loads into priority groups, the system enables the generator to operate at a lower power level sufficient only for high-priority loads, rather than requiring capacity for all loads. This reduced operating level directly reduces engine noise while still meeting essential power needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial action by providing power to only the necessary portion of loads (high-priority circuits) during generator operation, rather than attempting to power all loads. This partial power provision reduces the generator size and associated noise while maintaining adequate supply for critical functions.
3Ease of operation
If typical power management systems control circuit branches to manage loads, then power distribution is achieved, but flexibility is reduced because a new system is desired that allows for more flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments power management into multiple hierarchical levels: controlled versus uncontrolled circuits, and within controlled circuits, high-priority versus low-priority devices. This multi-level segmentation provides granular control and flexibility, allowing users to manage individual devices independently while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic priority assignment where circuits and devices can be reclassified between controlled and uncontrolled status, and between high and low priority, based on changing needs. This dynamic reconfiguration capability provides flexibility and adaptability that static circuit breaker control cannot achieve.
4Productivity
If a power management system controls entire circuit branches, then power distribution is achieved, but device-level management flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system further segments controlled circuits into high-priority and low-priority device groups, enabling independent management of individual devices or device groups within each circuit. This allows selective control of specific devices while maintaining efficient power distribution at the circuit level, providing both productivity and device-level flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
By assigning different priority levels to different devices or device groups within controlled circuits, the system applies local quality differentiation. This allows tailored management strategies for different devices based on their specific needs, achieving both efficient overall distribution and flexible device-level control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system allows for flexible management of devices, reducing the need for larger generators by enabling users to prioritize and manage loads efficiently, thereby optimizing power usage and reducing generator size, weight, and noise.
Implementation Method 1
The portable receptacle includes a first antenna, a switch to electrically connect the electrical outlet to the second managed device, and circuitry electrically connecting the first antenna and the switch. The circuitry includes a first controller to control the switch based on a signal received by the first antenna.
Implementation Method 2
The load management controller includes a processor, a memory having instructions executable by the processor, and a second RF antenna coupled to the processor. The processor executes the instructions to receive a control signal from the device controller, and to manage the first and second managed device based on the control signal and a value representing the draw on the generator.
Data Source
AI summary
A power management system connectable to a primary power source and a secondary power source, and a method of operating the power management system. A transfer switch is electrically connected to the primary and secondary power sources, and a plurality of branch circuits are electrically connected to the transfer switch. The plurality of branch circuits includes a plurality of electrical outlets. The system includes a controller wirelessly coupled to a plurality of portable receptacles, which are coupled between respective electrical outlets and managed devices. The controller manages the receptacles, and consequently the managed devices, during the second power source powering the transfer switch.