U.S. patent application number 13/162564 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-05 for method and system for controlling power to an electrically powered device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Green Power Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Michael Krummey, Greg Puschnigg.
Application Number | 20120001488 13/162564 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45441762 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120001488 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Puschnigg; Greg ; et
al. |
January 5, 2012 |
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING POWER TO AN ELECTRICALLY POWERED
DEVICE
Abstract
A system and method for remotely controlling power to an
electrically powered device in a simple and efficient manner 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 processor
and a transceiver. The system preferably uses a WiFi communication
signal to transmit commands from the remote controller to the
apparatus.
Inventors: |
Puschnigg; Greg; (Ligonier,
PA) ; Krummey; Michael; (Harrison City, PA) |
Assignee: |
Green Power Technologies,
LLC
King of Prussia
PA
|
Family ID: |
45441762 |
Appl. No.: |
13/162564 |
Filed: |
June 16, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12878040 |
Sep 9, 2010 |
7964989 |
|
|
13162564 |
|
|
|
|
61361402 |
Jul 3, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
307/40 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y04S 20/00 20130101;
H02J 13/00026 20200101; H02J 13/0075 20130101; H02J 13/00004
20200101; H02J 3/14 20130101; Y02B 90/20 20130101; H02J 2310/14
20200101; H02J 13/00024 20200101; Y04S 20/242 20130101; Y04S 40/126
20130101; Y02B 70/3225 20130101; H01R 13/665 20130101; Y02B 70/30
20130101; H01R 13/70 20130101; H02J 13/0005 20200101; H01R 25/003
20130101; Y04S 20/222 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
307/40 |
International
Class: |
H02J 3/00 20060101
H02J003/00 |
Claims
1. A system for controlling electrical power to an
electrically-powered device, the system comprising: at least one
apparatus comprising a housing having at least one power outlet
connection, a processor, and a transceiver for receiving commands
to the apparatus and for transmitting information from the
apparatus; an electrically-powered device, the device connected to
the at least one power outlet connection of the at least on
apparatus; and a controller for transmitting a plurality of
commands to the at least one apparatus; and at least one wireless
router for receiving each of the plurality of commands from the
controller and wirelessly transmitting each of the plurality of
commands to the transceiver of the at least on apparatus; wherein a
command of the plurality of commands from the controller can
control electrical power to the electrically powered device through
the processor of the at least one apparatus which is configured to
control electrical power to the electrically powered device from
the at least one power outlet connection.
2. The system according to claim 1 wherein the at least one
apparatus is a cord, a power strip or a plug.
3. The system according to claim 1 wherein the controller is a
smartphone, a computer, or a mobile phone.
4. The system according to claim 1 further comprising a plurality
of apparatuses and a plurality of electrically powered devices.
5. The system according to claim 1 wherein the system utilizes an
802.11 communication format.
6. The system according to claim 1 wherein the electrically-powered
device is one of a computer, a monitor, a television, a printer, a
lamp and a radio.
7. An apparatus for controlling electrical power to an
electrically-powered device, the apparatus comprising: a housing;
at least one alternating current outlet socket for receiving a plug
from an electrically-powered device; an alternating current input
plug for connection to an outlet to receive power; a latching relay
for controlling power to the at least one alternating current
outlet socket, the latching relay electrically positioned between
the alternating current input plug and the at least one alternating
current outlet socket; a processor configured to instruct the
latching relay to enable electrical power to the at least one
alternating current outlet socket and to disable electrical power
to the at least one alternating current outlet socket; and a
transceiver for receiving a plurality of commands to the apparatus
from a remote controller through a wireless router, and for
transmitting information from the apparatus, the transceiver in
electrically communication with the processor; wherein a command of
the plurality of commands from the remote controller can control
electrical power to the electrically powered device through the
processor of the apparatus.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the apparatus
comprises a plurality of alternating current outlet sockets.
9. A method for controlling electrical power to an
electrically-powered device, the method comprising: transmitting a
command from a remote controller over a network to a wireless
router, the command to disable power to an electrically powered
device; transmitting the command from the wireless router to an
apparatus, the apparatus connected to the electrically powered
device; receiving the command at a transceiver of the apparatus;
communicating the command from the transceiver to a processor of
the apparatus; switching a latching relay from an enabling state to
a disabling state to disable power to the electrically powered
device, the latching relay receiving instructions from the
processor to switch from an enabling state to a disabling state;
transmitting a response to the wireless router from the transceiver
of the apparatus, the response updating the status of the
electrically powered device; and receiving the response from the
wireless router over the network at the remote controller.
10. The method according to claim 9 wherein the remote controller
is a smartphone.
11. The method according to claim 9 wherein the remote controller
is a personal computer.
12. The method according to claim 9 wherein the network is the
Internet.
13. The method according to claim 9 wherein the remote controller
is located in a different office of a building where the at least
one apparatus is located.
14. The method according to claim 9 wherein the remote controller
is located in a first building and wherein the at least one
apparatus is located in a different building.
15. The method according to claim 9 further comprising a plurality
of apparatuses and a plurality of electrically powered devices.
16. The method according to claim 9 wherein the system utilizes an
802.11 communication format.
17. The method according to claim 9 wherein the system utilizes
WiFi.
18. The method according to claim 9 wherein the
electrically-powered device is one of a computer, a monitor, a
television, a printer, a lamp and a radio.
19. The method according to claim 9 wherein the command is
automatically sent at a predetermined time of day.
20. The method according to claim 9 wherein the command is
automatically sent in response to a request to decrease power from
a power company.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The Present Application is a continuation application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/878040, filed on Sep. 9, 2010,
and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number
61/361402, filed on Jul. 3, 2010, both of which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entireties.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention generally relates to controlling power
to an electrically powered device. More specifically, the present
invention relates to a system and method for controlling power to
an electrically powered device.
[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0006] End Users are becoming increasingly empowered to manage and
save electrical power in their everyday lives. They understand that
small changes in their behavior coupled with the use of smart power
saving devices can minimize their power usage and save on their
perpetually increasing energy bills. Additionally, End Users are
continually searching for ways to have more control and
customization over their environment for enhanced aesthetics and
personal preferences and convenience.
[0007] The prior art discusses various method and systems for
controlling power to an electrically power device.
[0008] One example is Dresti et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,642,852 for a
Remote Control Device With Appliance Power Awareness which
discloses placing a device in a desired powered state through use
of a infrared remote with radiofrequency capabilities.
[0009] Another is Lou et al, U.S. Patent Publication Number
2007/0115695 for a Power Supply With Low Standby Loss.
[0010] Yet another is Ewing et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,461 for a
Network Remote Power Management Outlet Strip.
[0011] Yet another is Lee et al., U.S. Publication Number
2010/0079001 for a Outlet Switch Socket Device.
[0012] The prior art fails to disclose a system and method for
remotely controlling power to an electrically powered device in a
simple and efficient manner.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides a system and method for
controlling power to an electrically powered device in a novel and
efficient manner. The present invention provides an effective
component for power savings, control and customization for
commercial and residential buildings.
[0014] One aspect of the present invention is a system for power
control with remote Wi-Fi management using web based user
interfaces accessible by a home PC, an office laptop or a
smartphone such as an iPHONE available from Apple, Inc. The system
is applicable to commercial and residential buildings. The features
afforded to end-users (commercial building managers or homeowners)
by the present invention allow for substantial reduction in energy
consumption without having to rewire a building.
[0015] The present invention is designed and positioned as an easy
to use and safe enhancement for controlling power to electrical
devices by building managers, information technology managers and
homeowners. The present invention relies on existing technologies,
protocols to adhere to all necessary safety and regulatory
requirements.
[0016] One aspect of the present invention is a system for
controlling electrical power to an electrically-powered device. The
system comprises an apparatus, an electrically-powered device and a
controller. The apparatus comprises a cord, an alternating current
outlet socket, an alternating current input plug, a latching relay,
a processor and a transceiver. The alternating current outlet
socket receives a plug from an electrically-powered device. The
alternating current outlet socket is located at a first end of the
cord. The alternating current input plug connects to an outlet to
receive power. The alternating current outlet socket is located at
a second end of the cord. The latching relay controls power to the
alternating current outlet socket. The latching relay is
electrically positioned within the cord between the alternating
current input plug and the alternating current outlet socket. The
processor is configured to instruct the latching relay to enable
electrical power to the alternating current outlet socket and to
disable electrical power to the alternating current outlet socket.
The transceiver receives a plurality of commands to the apparatus
from the controller utilizing a WIFI communication protocol. The
transceiver transmits information from the apparatus utilizing a
WIFI communication protocol. The transceiver is in electrical
communication with the processor. The transceiver comprises an
antenna that extends along a substantial length of the cord. The
electrically-powered device is connected to the at least one power
outlet connection of the at least on apparatus. The controller
transmits a plurality of commands to the at least one apparatus
utilizing a WIFI communication protocol. A command of the plurality
of commands from the controller can control electrical power to the
electrically powered device through the processor of the at least
one apparatus which is configured to control electrical power to
the electrically powered device from the at least one power outlet
connection.
[0017] The antenna of the transceiver of the cord preferably
extends along the entire length of the cord.
[0018] The length of the cord preferably ranges from four feet to
ten feet, and the processor, latching relay and transceiver are
located in a center region of the cord, with the center region
having a length ranging from one foot to two feet.
[0019] Another aspect of the present invention is a system for
controlling electrical power to an electrically-powered device. The
system comprises an apparatus, an electrically-powered device, a
controller and at least one wireless router. The apparatus
comprises a cord, an alternating current outlet socket, an
alternating current input plug, a latching relay, a processor and a
transceiver. The alternating current outlet socket receives a plug
from an electrically-powered device. The alternating current outlet
socket is located at a first end of the cord. The alternating
current input plug connects to an outlet to receive power. The
alternating current outlet socket is located at a second end of the
cord. The latching relay controls power to the alternating current
outlet socket. The latching relay is electrically positioned within
the cord between the alternating current input plug and the
alternating current outlet socket. The processor is configured to
instruct the latching relay to enable electrical power to the
alternating current outlet socket and to disable electrical power
to the alternating current outlet socket. The transceiver receives
a plurality of commands to the apparatus from a remote controller
through a wireless router. The transceiver transmits information
from the apparatus. The transceiver is in electrical communication
with the processor. The transceiver extends along at least 80% of
the length of the cord. The electrically-powered device is
connected to the at least one power outlet connection of the at
least one apparatus. The controller transmits a plurality of
commands to the at least one apparatus. The at least one wireless
router receives each of the plurality of commands from the
controller and wirelessly transmits each of the plurality of
commands to the transceiver of the at least one apparatus. A
command of the plurality of commands from the controller can
control electrical power to the electrically powered device through
the processor of the at least one apparatus which is configured to
control electrical power to the electrically powered device from
the at least one power outlet connection.
[0020] Having briefly described the present invention, the above
and further objects, features and advantages thereof will be
recognized by those skilled in the pertinent art from the following
detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a front view of an apparatus for controlling power
to an electrically powered device.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a back perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 3
taken along the line 4-4.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the cord shown in FIG. 4 taken
along the line 5-5.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of an apparatus for controlling
power to an electrically powered device.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of an
apparatus for controlling power to an electrically powered
device.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
7.
[0029] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
7.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of an
apparatus for controlling power to an electrically powered
device.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
10.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a back view of the apparatus of FIG. 10.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
10.
[0034] FIG. 14 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of an
apparatus for controlling power to an electrically powered
device.
[0035] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of the apparatus of FIG.
14.
[0036] FIG. 16 is a frontal elevation view of FIG. 1 connected to a
wall receptacle at one end and to a lamp at the opposite end, and a
user controlling the apparatus with a wireless device.
[0037] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a system for controlling power
to an electrically powered device.
[0038] FIG. 17A is a block diagram of a system for controlling
power to an electrically powered device.
[0039] FIG. 18 is a flow chart of control logic for a method for
controlling power to an electrically powered device.
[0040] FIG. 19 is a flow chart of control logic for a method for
controlling power to an electrically powered device.
[0041] FIG. 20 is a flow chart for an interrupt command for an
apparatus for controlling power to an electrically powered
device.
[0042] FIG. 21 is a front view of a smart phone for use with a
system for controlling power to an electrically powered device.
[0043] FIG. 22 is a screen view of a status chart of a system for
controlling power to an electrically powered device.
[0044] FIG. 23 is a screen view of a report generated by a system
for controlling power to an electrically powered device.
[0045] FIG. 24 is an elevational view of a cord embodiment of an
apparatus with a junction box in a center region of the cord with
exposed hot, neutral and ground wires.
[0046] FIG. 24A is an elevational view of a cord embodiment of an
apparatus with a junction box in a center region of the cord.
[0047] FIG. 25 is an elevational view of a cord embodiment of an
apparatus with circuitry in a center region of the cord.
[0048] FIG. 25A is an elevational view of a cord embodiment of an
apparatus with circuitry in a center region of the cord and both
ends of the cord with exposed hot, neutral and ground wires.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] A preferred embodiment of an apparatus 10 utilized for
controlling power to an electrically powered device is shown in
FIGS. 1-3, in the form of an extension cord. The apparatus 10
comprises of at least one controlled socket 11, a casing 12, a plug
13, a switch 14, and a cord 15.
[0050] In FIG. 4, the interior components of the apparatus 10 are
shown and in FIG. 6 a circuit block diagram for the apparatus 10 is
shown. The apparatus 10 further comprises at least a radio
transceiver 50, a microprocessor 41, a switch 61, and a power
converter. Additionally, light-emitting diodes (LED) 45 provide
status indication.
[0051] The plug 13 is used to receive alternating current (AC)
power, and the switch 61 is connected in between the socket 11 and
the plug 13.
[0052] The microprocessor 41 receives direct current (DC) power,
decodes a control signal from a remote control, such as a handheld
device, via the radio transceiver 50, and then controls the switch
61 based on the decoded control signal.
[0053] The switch 61 is preferably a latching relay controlled by
the microprocessor 41, according to the control signal received
from the remote control device. The latching relay minimizes the
power usage of the electrical device connected to the apparatus 10,
independent of the state of the switch 61.
[0054] Further embodiments of the present invention include
additional onboard energy storage, with sensing or measuring
capabilities, in various form factors embedded or interfaced with
various electrical components such as, but not limited to; cords,
outlets, converters, circuit breakers and surge protectors.
Additional embodiments of the present invention include combining a
single or multiple energy harvesting sources to provide power to
control the relay.
[0055] In the preferred embodiment, the radio transceiver
preferably includes an antenna 50 positioned within the cord 15 in
order to increase the reception power of transceiver. In addition
to the antenna, the cord 15 also comprises of three wires 42-44
(hot, neutral and ground), which are further detailed in FIG. 5.
The antenna runs parallel in the power cord for increased
performance.
[0056] FIG. 5 shows the internal components of the cord 15. There
are conductors for the three wires 42-44 for the socket and a
fourth encased conductor 55 for the antenna 50, all preferably
molded within insulating material 51. The antenna 50 preferably
comprises of a protective sleeve 52, a shielding copper braid 53,
foam 54, and a copper conductor 55; or other such materials
typically used to protect the antenna 50 from interference of the
other wires 42-44. Further, the antenna 50 is preferably positioned
as far as possible from the three other wires 42-44 to minimize the
interference from the wires 42-44.
[0057] The apparatus 10 of this embodiment preferably has two
controlled sockets 11 located on the front of the module. The
casing 12 is preferably injection molded insulating material. Both
sockets 11 are controlled with the same ON/OFF command. The
apparatus 10 is comparable in function and usability to standard
extension cords and plugs. The mechanical interactions for the user
using the apparatus 10 does not compromise safety or functionality
compared to standard extension cords and plugs. The apparatus 10
plugs securely into a single outlet of a standard duplex wall
receptacle and the plug 13 is configured in such a way that the
other outlet is not impeded. Each socket 11 of the apparatus 10
preferably has a current rating of 15 amperes (A) at 120 volts in
alternating current (V AC).
[0058] A pushbutton switch 14 on the apparatus 10, when activated,
preferably resets the apparatus 10 to the factory default
conditions for the configuration settings.
[0059] The apparatus 10 has a LED indicator 16 that is ON when the
apparatus 10 obtains and maintains a wireless connection to the LAN
(local area network) and OFF when the apparatus 10 does not have a
wireless connection to the LAN.
[0060] The LED indicator 16 also preferably represents the state of
the outlet power for the apparatus 10 as well, which is preferably
accomplished by blinking in a set pattern. Alternatively, the LED
indicator 16 flashes accordingly to indicate the status of the
wireless connection.
[0061] In the event of a power failure, the apparatus 10
automatically returns managed sockets 11 to the previous state,
prior to power interruption. In the event of a dropped wireless
connection, the apparatus 10 maintains port settings last set by
the user, prior to the loss of wireless connectivity, until the
wireless connectivity is restored or until the user disconnects the
apparatus 10.
[0062] A procedure for initializing an apparatus is shown in FIG.
19. At block 183, after a power loss or when the apparatus 10 is
plugged in, the microcontroller 41 executes a program 160 for
initializing the apparatus 10. At block 184, the POWER ON timer is
reset.
[0063] At decision 185, if the Wi-Fi is not initialized, the LEDs
for all of the relays are set to ON and the apparatus is the Wi-Fi
timer is reset at block 189, which times the seconds passed since
the last ping.
[0064] If the Wi-Fi is initialized at decision block 185 and there
is no ping timeout at decision block 187, then the relays are set
to the last command value before the loss of power 188. If there is
a ping timeout at decision block 187 then the relays are set to ON
a block 186, and then the Wi-Fi timer is reset at block 189.
[0065] After resetting the Wi-Fi timer at block 189, the program
160 checks for any pending Wi-Fi commands at decision block
191.
[0066] If there are no pending Wi-Fi commands at decision block 191
and no ping timeouts at decision block 192, then the program 160
returns to check for a Wi-Fi command at decision block 191. If
there is a ping timeout at decision block 192 then the Wi-Fi LED
indicator 16 is set to OFF at block 193 and the timeout flag is set
at block 194. Then the program 160 returns to the Wi-Fi
initialization step at decision block 185.
[0067] If there are pending Wi-Fi commands at block 191 and there
is a relay command at decision block 195, then the new data from
the command is written into the "LAST" command values block 196 and
the program 160 returns to setting the relays and LED to the "LAST"
command value at block 188. If there is no relay command at
decision block 195 then the program 160 checks for a CONFIG command
at decision block 197.
[0068] If there is a CONFIG command at decision block 197, then the
configuration information is updated at block 198 and the program
160 returns to checking for ping timeouts at decision block
192.
[0069] If there is no CONFIG command at decision block 197, then
ERROR status bits are set and the program 160 returns to checking
for ping timeouts at decision block 192.
[0070] An alternative embodiment of an apparatus 20 utilized for
controlling power to an electrically powered device is shown in
FIGS. 7-9, in the form of a compact box style receptacle.
[0071] Yet another alternative embodiment of an apparatus 30
utilized for controlling power to an electrically powered device is
shown in FIGS. 10-13, in the form of a compact box style
receptacle.
[0072] The alternative embodiments are similar to the preferred
embodiment, the distinction being in the physical type, and/or
shape.
[0073] The apparatus 20/30 is preferably shaped as a rectangle and
is approximately 2 inches.times.2 inches.times.1.5 inches. The
apparatus 20/30 preferably has two controlled sockets 11 located on
the sides of the module. The casing 12 is preferably injection
molded insulating material. Both sockets 11 are controlled with the
same ON/OFF command. The apparatus 20/30 is comparable in function
and usability to standard extension cords and plugs. The mechanical
interactions for the user using the apparatus 20/30 does not
compromise safety or functionality compared to standard extension
cords and plugs. The apparatus 20/30 plugs securely into a single
outlet of a standard duplex wall receptacle and the plug 13 is
configured in such a way that the other outlet is not impeded. Each
socket 11 of the apparatus 20/30 has a current rating of 15 A at
120V AC.
[0074] The apparatus 20/30 has a LED indicator 16 that is ON when
the apparatus 20/30 obtains and maintains a wireless connection to
the LAN (local area network) and OFF when the apparatus 20/30 does
not have a wireless connection to the LAN.
[0075] In the event of a power failure, the apparatus 20/30
automatically returns managed sockets 11 to the previous state,
prior to power interruption. In the event of a dropped wireless
connection, the apparatus 20/30 maintains port settings last set by
the user, prior to the loss of wireless connectivity, until the
wireless connectivity is restored or the user disconnects the
apparatus 20/30.
[0076] A pushbutton switch 14 on the apparatus 20/30, when
activated, preferably resets the apparatus 20/30 to the factory
default conditions for the configuration settings.
[0077] Yet another embodiment of an apparatus 40 utilized for
controlling power to an electrically powered device is shown in
FIGS. 14-15, in the form of a power strip.
[0078] The embodiment of FIGS. 14-15 is another variation of the
apparatus 10 in the form of a power strip. The apparatus 40 is
shaped similarly to currently available power strips. The casing 12
is preferably injection molded insulating material. The apparatus
40 preferably has six independently controlled sockets 110 and two
sockets which remain constantly ON 111. The device is comparable in
function and usability to standard power strips and plugs. The
mechanical interactions for the user using the apparatus 40 does
not compromise safety or functionality compared to standard
extension cords and plugs.
[0079] The apparatus 40 plugs securely into a single outlet of a
standard duplex wall receptacle and the plug 13 is configured in
such a way that the other outlet is not impeded. Each socket
110-111 of the apparatus 40 preferably has a current rating of 15A
at 120V AC.
[0080] The apparatus 40 has a LED indicator 112 that is ON when the
device obtains and maintains a wireless connection to the LAN
(local area network) and OFF when the device does not have a
wireless connection to the LAN.
[0081] In the event of a power failure, the apparatus 40
automatically returns managed sockets 110 to the previous state,
prior to power interruption. In the event of a dropped wireless
connection, the apparatus 40 maintains port settings last set by
the user, prior to the loss of wireless connectivity, until the
wireless connectivity is restored or the user disconnects the
apparatus 40.
[0082] A pushbutton switch 114 on the device 40, when activated,
preferably resets the device 40 to the factory default conditions
for the configuration settings.
[0083] A system 100 of the preferred embodiment is shown in FIG.
16. A table lamp 32 is plugged into one of the sockets 11 of the
apparatus 10, and the plug 13 at the other end of the cord 15 of
the apparatus 10 is plugged into a typical wall outlet 31. A user
controls the lamp 32 from a distance using the touch screen
commands 215 on a smartphone 210. A WiFi signal is sent from the
smartphone 210 and received at the antenna 50, not shown in FIG.
16, of the transceiver of the cord 15. The WiFi signal instructs
the microprocessor 41 of the apparatus 10 to deactivate the
electrical power to the table lamp 32.
[0084] When the apparatus 10 is connected to electrical power from
the wall outlet at block 161, the microcontroller 41 executes a
program 150, which is shown in FIG. 18.
[0085] If the deployment configuration is not set up at decision
block 162 on the apparatus 10, then the switch 61 and the LED are
turned on at block 163. If there is a no Wi-Fi command received at
decision block 164, then the program 150 returns to check for the
deployment configuration at decision block 162. If there is a Wi-Fi
command received at decision block 164 but there is no
configuration command at decision block 165, then the program 150
returns to check the deployment configuration at decision block
162. If there is a configuration command at decision block 165,
then the configuration command is processed block 166 and the
program 150 returns to check the deployment configuration at
decision block 162.
[0086] If the deployment configuration is set up at decision block
162 and there are ping timeouts at decision block 167, then the
switch 61 is set to ON at block 168 and the LED 16 is set to blink
at block 169.
[0087] If there are no ping timeouts at decision block 167, then
the program 150 checks if the pushbutton 14 was triggered at
decision block 171. If the pushbutton 14 was held for more than 3
seconds at decision block 172 but less than 20 seconds at decision
block 173, then the switch 61 is set to ON at block 175. If the
pushbutton 14 was held for more than 20 seconds at decision block
173, then the factory default configuration is set at block 174 and
the switch 61 is set to ON at block 175. If the pushbutton 14 was
held for less than 3 seconds at decision block 172 then the program
150 moves on to the next step at decision block 176.
[0088] If a Wi-Fi command is received at decision block 176 then
the ping timeout is reset block 177 and the command received is
processed at block 178. Then the program 150 moves on to the next
step block 179.
[0089] If a Wi-Fi command is not received at decision block 176,
then the program 150 tests for scheduled events block 179.
[0090] If there is a scheduled event pending at decision block 181
then the switch 61 and LED 16 statuses are updated block 182 and
the program 150 returns to check for ping timeouts decision block
167.
[0091] If there are no scheduled events pending decision block 181
then the program 150 returns to check for ping timeouts decision
block 167.
[0092] In FIG. 20, a program 170 is executed when the
microcontroller 41 receives an interrupt signal at block 201 from
the radio 50; i.e., when the apparatus 10 receives a command, as in
FIG. 16.
[0093] If the SSID and the IP (Internet Protocol) address are valid
t decision block 202, and there is a Wi-Fi ping at decision block
203, then a ping response at block 204 is set up. The radio command
is set to transmit a response packet at block 205, and then the
interrupt service routine (ISR) returns at block 213.
[0094] If there is no Wi-Fi ping decision block 203 and the command
is not valid decision block 206, then the command ERROR flag is set
block 207 and the ISR returns at block 213.
[0095] If the command is valid decision block 206 and the read
command is executed at decision block 208, the new data is written
into the transmit (TX) buffer at block 209 and the radio command is
set to transmit a response packet at block 205, and the ISR returns
at block 213.
[0096] If the READ command is not executed at decision block 208,
then data is retrieved from the receive (RX) buffer at block 211,
the command PENDING flag is set at block 212, and the ISR returns
at block 213.
[0097] The apparatus 10 permits the user to configure the apparatus
10 out of the box using a web user interface (WebUI), a personal
computer ("PC") program or a WiFi enabled hand held device
(smartphone) via ad-hoc wireless, allowing the user to program in
home network information, such as the wireless router SSID (Service
Set Identifier) and security keys, as necessary for web
connectivity.
[0098] A networked system 140 of the preferred embodiment is shown
in FIG. 17.
[0099] The WebUI is preferably hosted on the apparatus 10 and is
accessible via interconnected network devices. The WebUI, PC
program or WiFi enabled hand held is addressable via the assigned
IP address of the apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 can be controlled
from various devices such as, but not limited to, computers 143 or
mobile handhelds 210. In a typical network, the router 144 and the
access point 145 provide the wireless connectivity between the
apparatus 10 and the remote, such as a smart phone 210. An
alternative embodiment of the system 140 is illustrated in FIG.
17A. In this embodiment, the mobile handheld device 210 wireless
communicates directly with the antenna 50 of the apparatus 10
preferably using a WiFI communication protocol.
[0100] FIG. 21 shows a smart phone 210 displaying touch screen
commands 215 of an application for controlling power to
electrically powered devices plugged into the apparatus 10.
[0101] In FIG. 17, a system 141 shows a television 146 plugged into
the first installed apparatus 10, which is plugged into a wall
outlet 31. Another system 142 shows a printer 146a and a monitor
146b plugged into a secondary apparatus 10b, which is plugged into
a wall outlet 31b.
[0102] The first installed apparatus 10 is the master apparatus 10
and monitors the network for any additional apparatus 10b. When a
new apparatus 10b is detected on the network, the first apparatus
10 remotely manages other apparatus 10b using a single WebUI, PC
program or WiFi enabled hand held. The user will either: a) logon
to the original apparatus 10 and have selectable tabs and
additional options to manage all of the apparatus 10b on the
network; or b) manage each apparatus 10b discretely using
individual IP addresses. Local user settings to the individual
apparatus 10b supersede commands and/or timers from the master
apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 is compatible with various web
browsers such as, but not limited to, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft
Explorer and Google Chrome.
[0103] A simple WebUI home page allows individual management and
supervision of each socket 11 such as, but not limited to, setting
multiple timers and toggling ON/OFF selections of individual
sockets 11. An example of a web page, of a status window 190, is
shown in FIG. 22. The status page 190 displays the status of the
devices and users can turn devices OFF or ON from this page.
[0104] FIG. 23 shows another example of a web page, a report window
200 that a user can access to generate a report in order to analyze
or compare the consumption of energy by devices or activities or
dates.
[0105] Yet another embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated in FIG. 24. In this embodiment, the apparatus 10 is a
junction box with a cord 15 having the three wires 42-44 and the
antenna 50. The junction box contains a high power relay 49 and
most of the circuitry 48 shown in reference to FIG. 6. The loose
wires 42-44 can be hard wired to various electrical powered devices
and a fixed (household) power source or a mobile (generator) power
source. The junction box is preferably a 4 inch.times.4 inch
non-metallic box. The junction box embodiment can be utilized with
115 volt applications, 220 volt applications and three-phase
applications.
[0106] Yet another embodiment is shown in FIG. 24A. In this
embodiment, the apparatus 10 is a junction box with a cord 15
connected to plug 13 on one end and a socket on the other end. The
junction box contains a high power relay 49 and most of the
circuitry 48 shown in reference to FIG. 6. The junction box is
preferably a 4 inch.times.4 inch non-metallic box. The junction box
embodiment can be utilized with 115 volt applications, 220 volt
applications and three-phase applications.
[0107] Yet another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 25. In this
embodiment, the apparatus has a cord 15 with the circuitry is in a
central region of the cord 15 and shown as a bulge 12 in the cord
15. The cord has a plug 13 on one end and a socket 11 on the other
end. A pushbutton switch 14 on the apparatus 10, when activated,
preferably resets the apparatus 10 to the factory default
conditions for the configuration settings. The apparatus 10 has a
pair of LED indicators 16 and 17 that are ON when the apparatus 10
obtains and maintains a wireless connection to the LAN (local area
network) and OFF when the apparatus 10 does not have a wireless
connection to the LAN. The LED indicators 16 and 17 also preferably
represent the state of the outlet power for the apparatus 10 as
well, which is preferably accomplished by blinking in a set
pattern. Alternatively, the LED indicators 16 and 17 flashes
accordingly to indicate the status of the wireless connection.
[0108] Yet another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 25A. In this
embodiment, the apparatus has a cord 15 with the circuitry is in a
central region of the cord 15 and shown as a bulge 12 in the cord
15. The cord has the three wires 42-44 and the antenna 50. The
loose wires 42-44 can be hard wired to various electrical powered
devices and a fixed (household) power source or a mobile
(generator) power source. A pushbutton switch 14 on the apparatus
10, when activated, preferably resets the apparatus 10 to the
factory default conditions for the configuration settings. The
apparatus 10 has a pair of LED indicators 16 and 17 that are ON
when the apparatus 10 obtains and maintains a wireless connection
to the LAN (local area network) and OFF when the apparatus 10 does
not have a wireless connection to the LAN. The LED indicators 16
and 17 also preferably represent the state of the outlet power for
the apparatus 10 as well, which is preferably accomplished by
blinking in a set pattern. Alternatively, the LED indicators 16 and
17 flashes accordingly to indicate the status of the wireless
connection.
[0109] From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the
pertinent art will recognize the meritorious advancement of this
invention and will readily understand that while the present
invention has been described in association with a preferred
embodiment thereof, and other embodiments illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, numerous changes modification and
substitutions of equivalents may be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of this invention which is intended to be
unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in the following
appended claim. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention in
which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined in
the following appended claims.
* * * * *