Worksite Power Distribution Box for Priority Load Shedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Temporary power distribution systems at worksites often face challenges in managing power distribution efficiently, particularly in scenarios where high current demand exceeds thresholds, leading to potential power outages affecting critical tools and devices, and lack integrated communication capabilities for connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution box with a priority disconnect module that selectively disconnects lower-priority outlets when total current exceeds a threshold, combined with wireless communication capabilities to connect devices to external networks, ensuring critical tools remain powered and enabling communication across the worksite.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If power is distributed to all outlets simultaneously, then all devices can operate, but power outages occur when total current exceeds threshold
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system segments outlets into different priority groups (critical vs. non-critical). When total current demand exceeds the power source threshold, the system selectively disconnects non-critical outlets while maintaining power to critical outlets. This segmentation allows the system to serve more devices overall while preventing complete power outages through intelligent load management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If temporary power distribution is used at worksites, then power can be provided without permanent infrastructure, but integrated communication capabilities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power distribution and communication functions into a single integrated temporary power system. The power distribution box includes both electrical outlets and communication network components (wireless access point, network switches). This merging eliminates the need for separate communication infrastructure at worksites, providing both power and connectivity through one deployable unit, thereby maintaining adaptability while reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution box apparatus and method for implementing a priority disconnect scheme and a network communication bridge at a worksite, where the power distribution box distributes temporary power. The power distribution box includes a housing portion and a base portion elevating the housing portion off of the ground or another surface. The power distribution box includes a communication module having a network connecting module operable to connect to an external communication network (e.g., the Internet), and a wireless network module operable to wirelessly communicate with an external device (e.g., a smart phone) to, thereby, connect the external device to the external communication network. The power distribution box may also include a priority disconnect module to selectively disconnect AC output receptacles in response to over-current situations based on a priority level associated with each receptacle.