Worksite Power Box With Priority Outlet Disconnect and Network Bridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Temporary power distribution systems at worksites face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution and prioritizing loads to prevent overloads, while also lacking integrated communication capabilities for connecting devices to external networks.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution box with a priority disconnect module that elevates outlets, receives AC power, and includes a communication module for network connectivity, allowing for wireless communication and selective disconnection of outlets based on priority levels to manage power loads and connect devices to external networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a temporary power distribution system is used at a worksite, then power can be distributed to various tools and devices, but the system lacks integrated communication capabilities for connecting devices to external networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power distribution and communication functions into a single integrated power distribution box. The housing contains both electrical outlets for power delivery and communication modules (wireless access point, network ports) for data connectivity, allowing the device to serve dual purposes and eliminate the need for separate communication infrastructure at worksites.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution box is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously provides electrical power distribution and network communication services. It includes AC outlets, USB ports, wireless access point capabilities, and Ethernet ports, enabling a single device to replace multiple separate systems and enhance versatility at temporary worksite locations.
2Productivity
If power is distributed to multiple outlets simultaneously, then more devices can be powered, but the risk of overloads increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary monitoring of power consumption at each outlet before overloads occur. The microcontroller continuously tracks the load on each circuit and individually disconnects outlets that exceed safe current thresholds, preventing cascading failures and maintaining system reliability while maximizing safe power distribution capacity.
3Ease of operation
If outlets are elevated above the surface, then accessibility and safety are improved, but the device height and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution box utilizes vertical elevation through an extended base to position outlets at an optimal height for accessibility. The base raises the housing portion above the worksite surface, allowing workers to access outlets at a comfortable height while keeping the overall footprint compact and the device stable on the ground.
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.