U.S. patent application number 14/325224 was filed with the patent office on 2015-01-08 for intelligent circuit breaker apparatus and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Simply Automated Incorporated. Invention is credited to Frederick J. Kiko.
Application Number | 20150012145 14/325224 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40954152 |
Filed Date | 2015-01-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150012145 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kiko; Frederick J. |
January 8, 2015 |
INTELLIGENT CIRCUIT BREAKER APPARATUS AND METHODS
Abstract
A system and associated components for providing an intelligent
circuit breaker being adapted to communicate with, monitor and
control various devices within a commercial or residential
premises. In one embodiment, the system is adapted for low cost,
ease of installation and operation, and ease of manufacture. The
intelligent circuit breaker may also be adapted to send data
relating to sensed parameter or conditions to, and receive commands
from, a user interface. Methods for operating such breakers and
converting existing circuit breakers to intelligent circuit
breakers consistent with the aforementioned system and components
are also described.
Inventors: |
Kiko; Frederick J.;
(Carlsbad, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Simply Automated Incorporated |
Carlsbad |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
40954152 |
Appl. No.: |
14/325224 |
Filed: |
July 7, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12217788 |
Jul 8, 2008 |
8773827 |
|
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14325224 |
|
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|
|
61066324 |
Feb 19, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/291 ;
324/424; 700/292 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01R 21/133 20130101;
H01H 2300/03 20130101; H01H 71/123 20130101; Y04S 20/20 20130101;
Y04S 40/124 20130101; H02J 13/00036 20200101; Y04S 40/12 20130101;
H02J 13/00004 20200101; G01R 31/327 20130101; H01H 2071/006
20130101; Y02B 70/30 20130101; G01R 21/00 20130101; G06Q 50/06
20130101; H01H 83/20 20130101; H02J 3/14 20130101; H02J 13/00006
20200101; H01H 2083/203 20130101; Y02B 90/20 20130101; H01H 47/22
20130101; Y04S 20/14 20130101; G05F 1/66 20130101; H02J 13/00017
20200101; H02J 2310/12 20200101; Y02B 70/3225 20130101; Y04S 20/222
20130101; H01H 9/54 20130101; H02J 13/0017 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/291 ;
324/424; 700/292 |
International
Class: |
G01R 31/327 20060101
G01R031/327; G06Q 50/06 20060101 G06Q050/06; H01H 47/22 20060101
H01H047/22; G05F 1/66 20060101 G05F001/66; G01R 21/00 20060101
G01R021/00; H01H 9/54 20060101 H01H009/54 |
Claims
1-48. (canceled)
49. A method of utilizing a circuit breaker apparatus to evaluate
one of a plurality of powered devices associated with said
apparatus, said method comprising: receiving data from at least one
sensor apparatus configured to sense activity occurring on at least
one of a plurality powered devices; comparing said data to a
plurality of standard data stored on a storage apparatus;
determining a state of said at least one of said plurality of
powered devices as at least one of: (i) a powered-on state in
normal operation; (ii) a powered-on state in an error condition;
and/or (iii) a powered-off state; communicating state of said
individual ones of said plurality of powered devices to a user; and
communicating an action to said at least one powered device, based
at least in part on said act of comparing; wherein said powered-on
state in normal operation is determined when said data approximates
individual ones of said plurality of standard data indicative of
normal operation of said at least one powered device; wherein said
powered-off state is determined when said data approximates
individual ones of said plurality of standard data indicative of
said at least one powered device being turned off; and wherein said
powered-on state in error condition is determined when said data is
outside an acceptable range of said plurality of standard data.
50. The method of claim 48, wherein said at least one sensor
apparatus is configured to measure at least one of power, current,
voltage, power factor, temperature, frequency, or harmonics.
51. The method of claim 48, wherein said standard data comprises at
least one of: data recorded from normal operation of said at least
one powered device, data downloaded from a data source via secure
communication therewith, and/or data stored on said circuit breaker
apparatus by a manufacturer thereof.
52. The method of claim 48, wherein said act of comparing comprises
evaluating said received data and said reference data, and
determining, based at least in part on said evaluation, whether a
predetermined criterion has been met.
53. The method of claim 52, wherein said act of communicating an
action to said at least one powered device, based at least in part
on said act of comparing comprises causing a shutdown of said at
least one powered device when said predetermined criterion is
met.
54. The method of claim 52, wherein said act of communicating an
action to said at least one powered device, based at least in part
on said act of comparing comprises: communicating at least one of
said received data and said reference data to a user device;
receiving at said user device at least one user command; and
communicating said at least one user command to said at least one
powered device.
55. The method of claim 48, wherein said act of comparing comprises
diagnosing at least one operational problem with said at least one
powered device by using said received data to categorize a state of
said at least one powered device according to at least one of a
plurality of stored categories, and said act of communicating an
action to said at least one powered device based at least in part
on said act of comparing comprises communicating said
categorization to said at least one powered device.
56. A system configured to evaluate and schedule operation of one
of a plurality of powered devices associated with a circuit breaker
apparatus, said system comprising: a circuit breaker apparatus
comprising at least a control module, a plurality of mechanical
components effecting circuit breaking function, and at least one
sensor apparatus; a web-based user interface; and a plurality of
powered devices associated with said circuit breaker apparatus;
wherein said circuit breaker apparatus is adapted to communicate
with and control said plurality of powered devices; and wherein
said web-based interface is further configured to enable a user to
view data relating to said plurality of powered devices, and enter
one or more commands for communication to said powered devices from
a computerized device in communication with said circuit breaker
apparatus via an internetwork.
57. The system of claim 56, wherein said control module is
configured to evaluate at least one of said plurality of powered
devices via: receipt of data regarding activity occurring on said
at least one powered device sensed at said sensor apparatus;
categorization of said data according to at least one of a
plurality of categories; communication, via a secure connection, of
said categorization to said user interface; receipt of an input
from said user interface indicating an action to be taken in
response to said categorization; and causation of said action to be
carried out on said at least one powered device.
58. The system of claim 57, wherein said communication, via a
secure connection, comprises communication subsequent to password
confirmation at a user interface.
59. The system of claim 58, wherein said password confirmation
comprises a mechanism disabling said system when an incorrect
password is given more than a prescribed number of times.
60. The system of claim 56, wherein said plurality of categories
comprise at least one of: a category calculated from normal
operation of said at least one powered device, a category
downloaded from a data source via secure communication therewith,
and/or a category stored on said circuit breaker apparatus by a
manufacturer thereof.
61. The system of claim 56, wherein said control module is
configured to schedule operation of at least one of said plurality
of powered devices via: receipt of information regarding at least
first and second time ranges from said user interface via a secure
connection thereto; determination of a current time; and management
of a function of said at least one powered device based at least in
part on said stored time ranges and said current time.
62. A circuit breaker apparatus, comprising: a power supply; a
control module comprising at least one mechanism configured to
determine time; and a plurality of mechanical components configured
to provide a circuit breaking function of said circuit breaker;
wherein said control module is in data communication with at least
one user device, and is adapted to control operation of at least
one of a plurality of powered devices associated with said circuit
breaker based at least in part on said at least one mechanism
configured to determine time and a plurality of digital data
signals received from said at least one of said plurality of
powered devices; and wherein said control module is configured to
utilize a determined time and said plurality of digital data
signals to generate an estimate of future power consumption of said
at least one of said plurality of powered devices.
63. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said power
supply comprises at least one of: (i) a transistor, zener diode and
an opto-isolator with shunt resistor that provides both a 5V
converter regulation as well as a 3.3V output; or (ii) a power
supply without a tapped inductor, said power supply comprising a
series capacitor with a Zener diode and rectifier adapted to drop
input AC voltage to approximately 30V and a 30V low voltage
converter to power at a voltage less than 30V.
64. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said control
module is adapted to communicate with and control said one or more
powered devices via power conductors associated with said
devices.
65. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said control
module is adapted to communicate with and control said one or more
powered devices via wireless apparatus.
66. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said
mechanism configured to determine time comprises a real-time clock,
or a periodically updated software clock.
67. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said
plurality of mechanical components configured to provide said
circuit breaking function comprise at least one of: a magnetically
latching activator, a solid state switch, a relay, a solenoid
actuator, and/or a mechanical latch.
68. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 62, wherein said
user-entered schedule comprises: (i) prevention of said at least
one powered device from receiving power when said mechanism for
measuring time indicates a time within a first time range; and/or
(ii) permission to said at least one powered device to receive
power when said mechanism for measuring time indicates a time
within a second time range.
69. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 68, wherein said first
and second time ranges comprise one of: pre-set time ranges or
user-entered time ranges; and wherein when said first and second
time ranges comprise said user-entered time ranges, said
user-entered time ranges being entered by at least one user input
at said user device via communication therewith.
70. The circuit breaker apparatus of claim 68, wherein said at
least one powered device is prevented from receiving power by said
control module configured to interrupt a circuit associated with
said circuit breaker via manipulation of at least one of said
plurality of mechanical components configured to provide said
circuit breaking function; and wherein said at least one powered
device is permitted to receive power by said control module via
manipulating at least one of said plurality of mechanical
components configured to provide said circuit breaking function.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application is a continuation of and claims priority to
co-owned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/217,788
filed on Jul. 8, 2008 of the same title and issuing as U.S. Pat.
No. 8,773,827 on Jul. 8, 2014, which claims priority to co-owned
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/066,324, filed Feb.
19, 2008, and entitled "Intelligent Circuit Breaker Apparatus and
Methods", each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
COPYRIGHT
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates generally to the field of
electric power distribution, and specifically in one exemplary
aspect to an automated power measuring circuit breaker for use in a
home, office, or other premises by a consumer, homeowner, or a
public utility.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Technology
[0006] Traditional circuit breakers automatically operate as
electronic switches which are adapted to protect electrical
circuits from damage due to overloading or short circuiting.
Generally, a circuit breaker detects a current fault condition and
subsequently causes contacts within the circuit breaker to open
thereby interrupting the circuit. An arc is generated when the
current is interrupted. The arc must be contained, cooled, and
extinguished in a controlled way, so that the gap between the
contacts can again withstand the voltage in the circuit. When the
fault condition is corrected, the contacts are reclosed manually
and power is restored to the interrupted circuit.
[0007] Various mechanisms for controlling the closing and opening
circuits in a circuit breaker during fault conditions are known in
the prior art, including actuators, solid-state circuits, latches,
etc. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,924,445 to Bresciani et al.
issued Aug. 2, 2005 and entitled "Low-voltage circuit breaker"
discloses a low-voltage circuit breaker, comprising: at least one
first fixed contact, which is electrically connected to a terminal
for connection to an electric circuit; a rotating moving contact,
which comprises a central body from which at least one first arm
protrudes, an active surface being provided at the end of the first
arm, the active surface being associable/separable with respect to
the fixed contact by means of a rotation of the moving contact; a
rotating contact supporting shaft, which is functionally connected
to an actuation mechanism of the circuit breaker and is provided
with a seat that accommodates the central body of the moving
contact so that the first arm protrudes externally from the seat,
at least one first spring being furthermore arranged in the contact
supporting shaft and being functionally coupled to the moving
contact and suitable to ensure, when the circuit breaker is closed,
an adequate contact pressure between the active surface and the
first fixed contact; its particularity consists of the fact that at
least one first abutment surface is provided on the central body of
the moving contact and is suitable to act, during a rotation of the
moving contact caused by a short-circuit, against a complementarily
shaped surface formed in the seat of the shaft, so that at least
part of the energy accumulated by the rotating moving contact
during its rotation is transmitted directly to the shaft.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,952,335 to Huang et al. issued Oct. 4, 2005
and entitled "Solid-state DC circuit breaker" discloses a
high-speed, solid-state circuit breaker capable of interrupting
high DC currents without generating an arc, which is
maintenance-free. Both the switch and the tripping unit are
solid-state, which meet precise protection requirements. The
high-speed, solid-state DC circuit breaker uses an emitter turn-off
(ETO) thyristor as the switch. The ETO thyristor has an anode, a
cathode and first, second and third gate electrodes. The anode is
connectable to a source of DC current, and the cathode is
connectable to a load. A solid-state trip circuit is connected to
the first, second and third gate electrodes for controlling
interruption of DC current to the load by turning off said ETO
thyristor.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 7,279,651 to Nguyen issued Oct. 9, 2007 and
entitled "Automatic shut-off switch for main power source"
discloses an automatic turn-off switch responsive to displacement
of a movable element placed on a seat which resides on the top of a
chute located with an opening at the bottom immediately adjacent to
a pivotal lever. A spring-loaded latch is normally biased in a
contracted condition. An automatic release is cooperatively carried
between the spring latch and the lever whereby displacement of the
mechanical movable element causes the release to disconnect from
the contracted latch, whereby the latch is released for forcible
engagement with a conventional on/off switch in a circuit breaker
box. When the circuit breaker switch is in the "on" position, the
released latch engages the switch and causes the switch to move to
its "off" position, terminating all electrical communication with
the main power source.
[0010] Collection of data regarding fault conditions is also given
in the prior art. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,196,982 to
Landsberg et al. issued Mar. 23, 1993 and entitled "Electrical
power monitoring system" a method and system incorporating an
integral power consumption monitor-circuit breaker panel for
industrial or commercial buildings and facilities is disclosed. The
power consumption monitor-circuit breaker panel not only protects
each end use within the building against harmful overloads, but
also monitors peak power demands of each end use. Electrical
current, voltage and phase information is provided by each
monitor-breaker. This information is then fed to a processing
circuit that provides a power consumption value. The power
consumption value is then fed to recording device to provide a
power consumption history for each end use. Each monitor-breaker is
identified by its end use, as for example, by color coding. The
monitor device of each circuit breaker is designed to provide a
voltage that is proportional to the circuit load. Two methods may
be used to provide such a voltage signal: a) the voltage signal can
be developed across a built-in shunt in each circuit breaker; and
b) a proportional voltage can be obtained by use of a circuit
breaker with a built-in Hall effect device, wherein the product of
the instantaneous current and voltage along with the phase angle
between them, provides the power measurement. The current and/or
instantaneous power information can be sent to the recording device
via a powerline carrier, radio link, or optical fiber. The
information can be integrated to provide either kW or kW/hr
readings.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 6,836,099 to Amarillas et al. issued Dec. 28,
2004 and entitled "Electrical power conservation apparatus and
method" discloses an electrical power control apparatus and method
for a conventional 60 hertz or other conventional frequency
electrical AC power supply voltage waveform to provide an effective
output current and voltage to an intended load whereby the output
frequency is the same as the input frequency. Using a switching
means capable of micro switching the current on and off, and a
plurality of substantially equal length and duration interruptions
of current on both sides of an AC current oscillation, the output
effective voltage and resulting current may be preset and
controlled to a pre-programmed output level regardless of input
voltage having one or more phases. Or, the output voltage and
resulting current may be continually monitored with the load
integrated into the circuit being monitored and continually
adjusted to yield maximum power use savings while avoiding damage
to the components attached to the circuit. Additional embodiments
provide for use of the micro chopping device as a voltage
regulator, motor controller, light dimmer, line conditioner, and
also a circuit breaker for over current protection and as a smart
circuit breaker to yield a data stream on individual circuit power
usage which can be communicated to a monitoring station locally or
by electronic transmission of information to a remote monitoring
station. Real time monitoring and adjustment of power usage may be
accomplished using such communication and two way communication
between the device and communicating monitoring station also allow
for real time charges for power usage and deduction from prepaid
account for real time power usage.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,617,286 to Jenkins issued Apr. 1, 1997 and
entitled "Circuit breaker having data recording" disclose an
electronic circuit breaker having a micro-processor therein and at
least one port or pin on the micro-processor which is used to
produce an output pulse with time and/or frequency of the pulse
related to the power characteristic being measured. This output
pulse is thereafter transmitted to a recorder which is preferably a
pulse data recorder or may be a data recorder.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 4,467,434 to Hurley et al. issued Aug. 21,
1984 and entitled "Solid state watt-hour meter" discloses a
watt-hour meter which includes: a microprocessor coupled to a
solid-state Hall-Effect sensor; an electrically alterable ROM
coupled to the microprocessor; a power supply; a power outage
timing means using the discharge characteristic of a capacitor;
apparatus for supplying a 60 Hz clock signal to the microprocessor;
a readout device coupled to the microprocessor to provide an
indication of the power consumed; an output on the microprocessor
for controlling a circuit breaker; and a switch for overriding the
microprocessor controlled circuit breaker. The microprocessor and
the electrically alterable ROM are connected and programmed: to
sense the time of day as determined from an initial time of day and
setting the 60 Hz clock signal; to sense and compute the power used
by the consumer; to automatically open the circuit breaker when
power demand on the electric power source is high and/or the cost
per kilowatt hour is high; to automatically close the circuit
breaker when the power demand on the source of electric power is
low and/or the cost per kilowatt power is low; and to allow a
consumer to override the microprocessor's control of the circuit
breaker.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 6,292,717 to Alexander et al. issued Sep. 18,
2001 and entitled "Energy information device and graphical display
for a circuit breaker" discloses an energy information system for
use with a circuit breaker coupled between a power source and a
load, the energy information system comprising: sensing apparatus
for sensing at least one of i) a voltage, and ii) a current flowing
between the power source and the load through the circuit breaker;
detecting apparatus for detecting transitions of a sensed voltage;
counting apparatus for counting a number of times the circuit
breaker trips and interrupts the current flow between the power
source and the load; measuring apparatus for i) measuring the
current flow through the circuit breaker when the circuit breaker
trips and interrupts the current flow between the power source and
the load and ii) determining a plurality of energy related
parameters including a measure of at least one of the voltage, the
current and the frequency based on an output from the detecting
apparatus, between the power source and the load; input apparatus
for accepting a user input, the user input controlling at least one
of the circuit breaker and a display apparatus; the display
apparatus for displaying at least one of the plurality of
conditions of the circuit breaker responsive to the input
apparatus; and communication apparatus coupled to the input
apparatus for selectively communicating at least one of the
plurality of energy related parameters to a remote terminal.
[0015] Fault data collection may be used as given in U.S. Pat. No.
6,671,148 to Evans et al. issued Dec. 30, 2003 entitled "Electronic
communicating residential circuit breaker" which discloses a system
for communicating with a residential electrical load center,
including a residential electrical wiring system and at least one
electronic communicating circuit breaker. The electronic
communicating circuit breaker includes a fuse protected
communications and control module. The system provides power to the
fuse protected communications and control module utilizing the
residential electrical wiring system, and operates the electronic
communicating circuit breaker utilizing the fuse protected
communications and control module regardless of whether the
electronic communicating circuit breaker is in an `Open` or
`Closed` state.
[0016] Collected data may be used in mathematical operations as in
U.S. Pat. No. 7,043,380 to Rodenberg, III, et al. issued May 9,
2006 and entitled "Programmable electricity consumption monitoring
system and method", which discloses a programmable system for
monitoring electricity consumption by a residence or business,
including: (a) a Measuring Transmitting Unit integrated in a main
circuit breaker or utility meter in the residence or business;
comprising: (1) a means of receiving AC analog signals, converting
the AC analog signals to DC analog signals, summing the DC analog
signals, and outputting the information; (2) a microcontroller; (3)
a power line carrier transmission interface controller; and (4) a
power supply for powering the Measuring Transmitting Unit; and (b)
a programmable Receiving Display Unit, comprising: (1) a power
supply for powering the Receiving Display Unit; (2) a power plug;
(3) a power line carrier transmission interface controller; (4) a
data decoder; (5) a microcontroller; (6) memory associated with the
microcontroller; (7) a visual display; and (8) a mechanism for
inputting to the Receiving Display Unit; and wherein the Measuring
Transmitting Unit translates current to digitally encoded signals,
and transmits the signals over existing power circuits in the
residence or business; and the Receiving Display Unit receives the
signals, decodes them, and translates them for viewing. A method
for monitoring electricity consumption by a residence or business
is also included.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 6,121,886 to Anderson issued Sep. 19, 2000 and
entitled "Method for predicting fault conditions in an intelligent
electronic device" discloses a method of predicting an eminent
circuit breaker trip condition using an intelligent electronic
device such as a trip unit, a protective relay, a power meter or
other IED is presented. The intelligent electronic device includes
a microcontroller and associated memories. An algorithm (program)
stored in a memory of the intelligent electronic device generates a
near-trip event for each trip event calculation if preset
thresholds for the measured parameters are breached.
[0018] Transmission of collected data to an external computer is
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,197,243 to Spencer et al. issued Feb.
27, 2001 and entitled "Method and apparatus for adaptive
configuration and control in a network of electronic circuit
breakers", which discloses a system including a load center monitor
connected to a plurality of digitally enhanced circuit breakers by
a communication bus forming a network of reconfigurable circuit
breakers which providing advanced monitoring and control of an
electrical power distribution system. A user port and a service
port provide a communication interface with an external computer.
Visual indicators and an audible alarm provide for alerting persons
to certain conditions in the system. Buttons are provided for
CLEAR, RESET, and TEST functions, and a diagnostic port is also
provided. The load center monitor is operable to monitor the
operation of the circuit breakers and download information
therefrom for storage in the load center monitor as in the form of
historical data. Further, the load center monitor is operable to
adaptively configure the trip profiles of individual circuit
breakers in the network by uploading the alternate selection or
revision to the trip profile to an individual circuit breaker in
order to change the operation thereof.
[0019] Control of a circuit breaker from a remote device is given
in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,342,474 to Castonguay, et al.
issued Mar. 11, 2008 and entitled "Circuit breaker configured to be
remotely operated" which discloses a circuit breaker configured to
be remotely operated. The circuit breaker includes a set of main
contacts configured to connect between an electrical source and an
electrical load, an operating mechanism in operable communication
to open and close the main contacts, and a remotely operable drive
system configured to open and close the main contacts separate from
actuation of the operating mechanism. The drive system includes a
motor responsive to first and second control signals, a primary
drive responsive to the motor, and an opening spring responsive to
the primary drive, the main contacts being responsive to the
opening spring. In response to the first control signal, the
primary drive moves to charge the opening spring, and in response
to the second control signal and the main contacts being closed,
the primary drive moves to allow the opening spring to discharge
thereby resulting in the main contacts opening independent of the
motor.
[0020] Also, U.S. Pat. No. 6,787,937 to Mody et al. issued Sep. 7,
2004 and entitled "Method of operating remote operated circuit
breaker panel" discloses a remote operated device including: a
plurality of circuit breakers; a first actuator in operable
communication with a second actuator, the first actuator positions
the second actuator at a circuit breaker of the plurality of
circuit breakers, the second actuator mounted external to the
plurality of circuit breakers, the second actuator moves a handle
of the circuit breaker to an on position, an off position, or
performs a reset operation; and a controller in electronic
communication with the first actuator and the second actuator.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 6,246,928 to Louis et al. issued Jun. 12, 2001
and entitled "Electrical interruption device comprising a
communication module" discloses an interruption device, circuit
breaker or contactor, which comprises a communication module
arranged in one of the locations designed for auxiliary contacts.
The module is connected to the auxiliary contacts and to a
communication bus to enable transmission of the states of the
device to a supervision device, by means of the bus. The module can
also act as interface between the bus and opening and closing
control relays of the device, so as to enable remote control
thereof by means of the bus.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 6,988,375 to Bashark issued Jan. 24, 2006 and
entitled "System and method for remote appliance monitoring"
discloses a device for monitoring a plurality of appliances,
wherein each appliance is connected to an electrical circuit having
a first wire and a second wire. The device includes a plurality of
cores, each of the plurality of cores being constructed to be able
to surround one of the first wires of each circuit and having a
secondary winding at which an electrical signal is generated in
response to a current polarity change in the first wire. A
multiplexer is connected to the secondary winding of each of the
plurality of cores. A processor is connected to the multiplexer to
monitor the phase relationship between an AC voltage an AC current
of each appliance connected to one of the plurality of circuits and
to determine information relating to the function of the appliance
based on the phase relationship. The device may be located at the
circuit breaker box of an establishment.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 5,629,869 to Johnson et al. issued May 13,
1997 and entitled "Intelligent circuit breaker providing
synchronous switching and condition monitoring" discloses an
intelligent circuit breaker or switching device system comprising
three separate microprocessor-based units, including a condition
monitoring unit (CMU), a breaker control unit (BCU), and a
synchronous control unit (SCU). The CMU provides detailed
diagnostic information by monitoring key quantities associated with
circuit breaker or switching device reliability. On-line analysis
performed by the CMU provides information facilitating the
performance of maintenance as needed and the identification of
impending failures. The BCU is a programmable system having
self-diagnostic and remote communications. The BCU replaces the
conventional electromechanical control circuits typically employed
to control a circuit breaker or switching device. The SCU provides
synchronous switching control for both closing and opening the
circuit interrupters. The control processes carried out by the SCU
reduce system switching transients and interrupter wear. The
intelligent circuit breaker or switching device system improves
system operation and equipment maintenance.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 6,507,255 to Ennis et al. issued Jan. 14, 2003
and entitled "Remotely controllable circuit breaker" discloses a
circuit breaker which has a set of remotely controllable secondary
contacts electrically connected in series with the main contacts
which provide overcurrent or fault current protection. An operating
mechanism opens and closes the set of main contacts. The secondary
contacts are opened and closed by a latching solenoid. The latching
solenoid includes a plunger latchable to a first position, which
opens the set of secondary contacts, and to a second position which
closes the set of secondary contacts. The latching solenoid also
includes an open/close coil which when energized with a first
polarity signal operates the plunger to the first position and
which when energized with an opposite second polarity signal
operates the plunger to the second position. A circuit is
structured for cooperation with a remote control circuit for
energizing the coil with the first polarity signal or,
alternatively, the second polarity signal.
[0025] As fuel costs and peak power demands increase, electric
power shortage issues are raised, thus making home and business
power management a necessity. In many instances, it has become
necessary for homeowners, business owners, and/or public utilities
to temporarily shed large non-necessary loads, such as, inter alia,
water heaters, pool pumps, spas, dishwashers, and dryers during
peak demand hours (i.e., 2-7 PM) so as to meet increased energy
demands. Accordingly, public utilities have begun preparing to
implement systems by which power consuming devices may be
controlled remotely. Furthermore, the increased demands combined
with increased fuel costs, etc. cause energy rates to continue to
increase especially during peak periods (3-7 pm). Thus, homeowners
and other consumers also have an interest in automating some or all
of their devices, thereby reducing power consumption.
[0026] Thus, prior art circuit breakers able to control one or more
devices with a timer; for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,754,162 to
Kondou, et al. issued Jun. 28, 1988 and entitled "Timer controlled
multipole circuit breaker" discloses a timer controlled multipole
circuit breaker which has a pair of breaker contacts in each pole
which are connected to load and line terminals respectively
provided in the current path of each pole. Incorporated in the
breaker is electric timer for controlling to open and close the
breaker contacts according to a predetermined timing schedule. The
electric timer has its input end connected across the line
terminals of the adjacent poles so as to be energized by the common
power on the line terminals of the breaker without requiring any
additional external wiring. The circuit breaker incorporating the
electric timer of the present invention further provides a
safeguard which inhibits the automatic reclosing of the contacts by
the timer operation until the fault current condition is
cleared.
[0027] U.S. Pat. No. 6,067,483 to Fesmire et al. issued May 23,
2000 and entitled "Electrical distribution computer" discloses an
electrical distribution computer panel for delivering and
controlling power to a plurality of electrical circuits. The
electrical distribution computer includes a unitary enclosure
having a top, bottom, sides and a door. Located within the
enclosure is a microprocessor having a central processing unit, a
clock for providing a clock signal to the central processing unit,
memory for storing an application program for the central
processing unit and a remote communication circuit for providing
communications to the electrical distribution computer from a
remote device. Also located in the enclosure is an interface having
a plurality of outputs and a plurality of inputs communicably
associated with the microprocessor and a plurality of computer
controllable circuit breakers having a circuit breaker input for
receiving a circuit breaker control signal from the interface. A
display for displaying information provided by the microprocessor
is located on an outer wall of the enclosure. The display includes
a display input for receiving a display signal from the interface.
A keypad including an output for providing information to the
interface is also located on an outer wall of the enclosure.
[0028] The aforementioned load control requirements most greatly
affect existing homes/systems, because it is in these systems where
less-efficient devices are typically located. None of the
aforementioned circuit breaker apparatus, methods and systems are
adapted to communicate with and/or control operations of the
various devices associated with the apparatus. Such communication
and control being useful in enabling an exemplary system to utilize
data collected for mathematical operations and/or diagnosis and
inform the device and/or a user of a condition of the devices, as
well as to implement one or more corrective measures. Hence, what
is needed is an economic approach to load shedding and power
management and associated apparatus and methods of operation. Such
system and methods would also ideally be easily workable with
existing systems, and would advantageously comprise features which
would enable a user (i.e. a homeowner, consumer, or public utility)
to gather information regarding the power requirements associated
with a particular device and/or system of devices. It is also
appreciated that existing technology, including the HomePlug.RTM.
Power Alliance Command and Control technology (HPCC), may be
utilized to implement whole house control via powerline-based home
networks.
[0029] Exemplary systems and methods thus, would preferably be
adapted to communicate with one or more devices associated with a
circuit breaker and monitor and collect data regarding their
operation. Collected data may be utilized for mathematical
operations, diagnostics and may be transmitted to external devices
as well as to the devices associated with a circuit breaker.
Accordingly, the external devices may be adapted to not only
control the exemplary circuit breaker apparatus, but also the
devices associated with the circuit breaker via the circuit breaker
apparatus' ability to communicate with the devices. Further, the
devices associated with the circuit breaker may be adapted to take
corrective measures independent of user intervention.
[0030] Such system and methods would also ideally allow a user to
perform the installation of the system themselves (or with minimal
assistance), and also not require any significant modification to
the premises infrastructure such as running cabling, electrical
system modifications, drywall or plumbing work, etc. In other
words, installation of an ideal system would be quickly and easily
accomplished. Such system and methods would also take advantage of
the fact that most of the significant loads are typically on
separate breakers.
[0031] The ideal system would also be highly modular in nature,
such that each user could configure their premises (and equipment
operating therein) according to their particular desires and
equipment configuration. This modularity would also include the
ability to add more or different automation functions over time
without having to modify the rest of the system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0032] The present invention satisfies the aforementioned needs by
providing improved apparatus and methods for, inter alia, apparatus
and methods for enabling a user (i.e. a homeowner, consumer or
public utility) to monitor and control the power requirements of
individual devices as well as of entire systems of devices.
[0033] In a first aspect of the invention, power supply apparatus
utilized in a powerline (e.g., HPCC) system is disclosed. In one
embodiment the power supply apparatus comprises 5V/3.3V circuitry.
In one variant, the power supply apparatus comprises a transistor,
zener diode and an opto-isolator with shunt resistor that provides
both the 5V converter regulation as well as the 3.3V output.
[0034] In another embodiment, the power supply apparatus comprises
a lower power supply without a tapped inductor. In one variant, the
lower power supply apparatus comprises a 1 Watt power supply that
uses a series capacitor with a Zener diode and rectifier to drop
the input AC voltage to approximately 30V and a 30V low voltage
converter to generate the 5V or 3.3V power.
[0035] In a second aspect of the invention, apparatus which
combines power sensing with controlled breaker operation is
disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus performs diagnostics on
external appliances automatically. In one variant, the appliance
diagnostic comprises detecting a dirty air filter. In another
variant, the appliance diagnostic comprises detecting low Freon
levels in an HVAC unit. In yet another variant, the apparatus
comprises a user interface. In yet another variant, the apparatus
is incorporated as part of an overall control system.
[0036] In a third aspect of the invention, actuator apparatus is
disclosed. In one embodiment, the actuator apparatus comprises a
latching actuator or arm adapted to push the breaker actuator
contact arm open. The actuator apparatus obviates the necessity to
add a relay.
[0037] In a fourth aspect of the invention, intelligent circuit
breaker (ICB) apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the ICB
comprises control circuitry and a latching relay. In one variant,
this is accomplished based in part on a standard breaker design. In
a second embodiment, the ICB comprises control circuitry to the
breaker plus a magnetically latching actuator. In another
embodiment the actuator is mechanically latching.
[0038] In a fifth aspect of the invention, methods for installing
the ICB are disclosed. In a first embodiment, the method comprises
switching off the old breaker, loosening a black wire and pulling
the wire from the breaker, removing the old breaker, replacing with
the intelligent breaker, reinstalling the black wire in the
intelligent breaker line terminal, and installing the white wire to
the neutral bar.
[0039] In a sixth aspect of the invention, HPCC controller
apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the HPCC controller
comprises an HPCC modem with a controller function and a
transmit/receive coupling.
[0040] In a seventh aspect of the invention, power sensor apparatus
is disclosed. In one embodiment, the power sensor apparatus is
adapted to collect and store watt-hours usage.
[0041] In an eighth aspect of the invention, methods of doing
business utilizing the aforementioned apparatus are disclosed.
[0042] In a ninth aspect of the invention, a computer readable
medium comprising a plurality of executable instructions is
disclosed. In one embodiment, the computer readable medium
implements a series of algorithmic processing steps to perform
diagnostics on appliances in communication with an ICB.
[0043] In a tenth aspect of the invention, methods of operating a
circuit having an intelligent circuit breaker disposed therein are
disclosed.
[0044] In an eleventh aspect of the invention, a circuit breaker
apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises
a power supply, a control module adapted to communicate with one or
more powered devices operating on a circuit serviced by the
breaker, at least one sensor apparatus adapted to transmit data
regarding activity occurring on at least one of the one or more
powered devices to the control module, and a plurality of
mechanical components effecting a circuit breaking function.
According to this embodiment, the control module is further adapted
to evaluate the at least one of the one or more powered devices and
control the at least one powered device based at least in part on
the evaluation.
[0045] In one variant, the power supply comprises at least one of:
(i) a transistor, Zener diode and an opto-isolator with shunt
resistor that provides both a 5V converter regulation as well as a
3.3V output, or (ii) a power supply without a tapped inductor, the
power supply comprising a series capacitor with a Zener diode and
rectifier adapted to drop input AC voltage to approximately 30V and
a 30V low voltage converter to generate power at a voltage less
than 30V.
[0046] In another variant, the control module is adapted to
communicate with and control the one or more powered devices via
power lines associated with the devices. In one facet, the control
module comprises a HomePlug Command and Control (HPCC) module. In
yet another variant, the control module is adapted to communicate
with and control the one or more powered devices via wireless
apparatus. In one facet, the wireless apparatus utilizes at least
one of: radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) energy.
[0047] In yet another variant, the at least one sensor apparatus
comprises a power sensor, the power sensor adapted to measure
watt-hours used and watt-hours accumulated for at least one powered
device. In another variant, at least one sensor apparatus is
adapted to measure at least one of power, current, voltage, power
factor, temperature, frequency, or at least one harmonic. In yet
another variant, the at least one sensor comprises an external
sensor adapted to measure at least one of: current from a current
transformer, voltage, or temperature.
[0048] In still another variant, the plurality of mechanical
components effecting a circuit breaking function comprise at least
one of: a magnetically latching activator, a solid state switch, a
relay, a solenoid, or a mechanical latch.
[0049] In yet another variant, the act of evaluating the at least
one powered device comprises comparing the data regarding activity
occurring on the at least one powered device to reference data. In
one facet, the reference data comprises at least one of: data
recorded from normal operation of the at least one powered device,
data downloaded from a data source via secure communication
therewith or data stored on the circuit breaker apparatus by a
manufacturer thereof. In another facet, the act of controlling the
at least one powered device based at least in part on the
evaluation comprises causing the at least one powered device to
shut down if the data regarding the at least one powered device and
the reference data differ more than a predetermined threshold. The
act of shutting down the at least one powered device comprises
triggering the plurality of mechanical components effecting the
circuit breaking function. In yet another facet, the act of
controlling the at least one powered device based at least in part
on the evaluation comprises causing the at least one powered device
to shut down if the data regarding the at least one powered device
and the reference data differ more than a predetermined threshold.
The act of shutting down the at least one powered device comprises
triggering the plurality of mechanical components effecting the
circuit breaking function. In another facet, the act of controlling
the at least one powered device based at least in part on the
evaluation comprises communicating to the at least one powered
device one or more commands.
[0050] In another variant, the apparatus is further adapted to
record said evaluation for delivery to a user device via
communication therewith.
[0051] In a final variant, the circuit breaker apparatus further
comprises at least one manual actuation apparatus, the actuation
apparatus enabling the circuit breaker apparatus to perform various
functions including at least one of: resetting the circuit breaker
apparatus, beginning a diagnosis mode, beginning a self-test mode,
or calibrating the apparatus based on presently sensed data
regarding the powered devices, and at least one LED indicator, the
indicator indicative of a status or mode of the circuit breaker
apparatus.
[0052] In another embodiment, the circuit breaker apparatus
comprises a power supply, a control module, the control module
adapted to comprise at least a mechanism for determining time, and
a plurality of mechanical components providing a circuit breaking
function of the circuit breaker. According to this embodiment, the
control module is in data communication with at least one user
device, and is adapted to control operation of at least one of a
plurality of powered devices associated with the circuit breaker
based at least in part on the at least one mechanism for
determining time.
[0053] In one variant, the power supply comprises at least one of:
(i) a transistor, zener diode and an opto-isolator with shunt
resistor that provides both a 5V converter regulation as well as a
3.3V output, or (ii) a power supply without a tapped inductor, the
power supply comprising a series capacitor with a Zener diode and
rectifier adapted to drop input AC voltage to approximately 30V and
a 30V low voltage converter to power at a voltage less than
30V.
[0054] In another variant, the control module is adapted to
communicate with and control the one or more powered devices via
power conductors associated with the devices. In yet another
variant, the control module is adapted to communicate with and
control the one or more powered devices via wireless apparatus.
[0055] In another variant, the mechanism for determining time
comprises a real-time clock, or a periodically updated software
clock.
[0056] In another variant, the plurality of mechanical components
effecting a circuit breaking function comprise at least one of: a
magnetically latching activator, a solid state switch, a relay, and
a mechanical latch.
[0057] In yet another variant, the circuit breaker apparatus
comprises an enclosed plug-in module. The plug in module may
comprise a 120V or 240V home outlet plug in module. In yet another
variant, the circuit breaker apparatus comprises a wired-in
module.
[0058] In another variant, the act of controlling operation of the
at least one powered device based at least in part on the at least
one mechanism for determining time comprises: (i) preventing the at
least one powered device from receiving power when the mechanism
for measuring time indicates a time within a first time range, or
(ii) permitting the at least one powered device to receive power
when the mechanism for measuring time indicates a time within a
second time range. In one facet, the first and second time ranges
comprise one of: pre-set time ranges or user-entered time ranges,
the user-entered time ranges entered by at least one user input at
the user device via communication therewith. In another facet, the
at least one powered device is prevented from receiving power by
the control module interrupting a circuit associated with the
circuit breaker via manipulation of at least one of the plurality
of mechanical components effecting the circuit breaking function,
and the at least one powered device is permitted to receive power
by the control module via manipulating at least one of the
plurality of mechanical components providing the circuit breaking
function.
[0059] In another embodiment, the circuit breaker apparatus is in
data communication with at least one user device and has a
plurality of powered devices associated therewith and the apparatus
comprises a power supply, a plurality of mechanical components
effecting a circuit breaking function of the circuit breaker, at
least one sensor apparatus, the at least one sensor apparatus
adapted to transmit data regarding sensed activity occurring on at
least one of the plurality of powered devices, and a control module
adapted to receive the transmitted data, the control module
comprising at least one computer program configured to: receive the
data, measure time, perform one or more mathematical calculations
based at least in part on the received data and the measured time,
send information regarding the calculations to the at least one
user device, and control the operation of the at least one powered
device based at least in part on the calculations.
[0060] In one variant, the calculations comprise calculations
enabling the apparatus to determine at least one of: power
consumption, power accumulation, costs associated with amount of
power consumed, and estimated power usage based on statistics
related to previous use. In one facet, the calculation for
determining costs associated with amount of power consumed utilizes
information regarding at least one of: graded levels of costs
associated with power consumption, graded levels of costs
associated with power uses, and division of power usage among
multiple dwelling units having at least one powered device
associated with the circuit breaker apparatus.
[0061] In another variant, the computer program is further adapted
to: diagnose the at least one of the one or more powered devices,
and control the operation of the at least one powered device
operating on a circuit serviced by the breaker, the act of
controlling based at least in part on the diagnosis.
[0062] In yet another variant, the computer program is further
adapted to manage functioning of at least one of the plurality of
powered devices based at least in part on the measured time and
first and second stored time ranges by: preventing the at least one
powered device from receiving power when the measured time is
within the first time range by causing an the circuit breaker to
open, and permitting the at least one powered device to receive
power when the measured time is within the second time range by
causing the circuit breaker to close.
[0063] In a twelfth aspect of the invention, a method of utilizing
a circuit breaker apparatus is given. In one embodiment, the
circuit breaker apparatus is utilized to evaluate one of a
plurality of powered devices associated with the apparatus and the
method comprises receiving data from at least one sensor apparatus
adapted to sense activity occurring on at least one of a plurality
powered devices operating on a circuit serviced by a circuit
breaker, comparing the data to standard data stored on a storage
apparatus, and communicating an action to the at least one powered
device, based at least in part on the act of comparing.
[0064] In one variant, the at least one sensor apparatus is adapted
to measure at least one of power, current, voltage, power factor,
temperature, frequency, or harmonics.
[0065] In another variant, the standard data comprises at least one
of: data recorded from normal operation of the at least one powered
device, data downloaded from a data source via secure communication
therewith, or data stored on the circuit breaker apparatus by a
manufacturer thereof.
[0066] In another variant, the act of comparing comprises comparing
the received data and the reference data, and determining, based at
least in part on the comparison, whether a predetermined criterion
has been met. In one facet, the act of communicating an action to
the at least one powered device, based at least in part on the act
of comparing comprises causing a shut down of the at least one
powered device if the predetermined criterion is met. In another
facet, the act of communicating an action to the at least one
powered device, based at least in part on the act of comparing
comprises: communicating at least one of the received data and the
reference data to a user device, receiving at the user device at
least one user command, and communicating the at least one user
command to the at least one powered device.
[0067] In yet another variant, the act of comparing comprises
diagnosing at least one operational problem with the at least one
powered device by using the received data to categorize a state of
the at least one powered device according to at least one of a
plurality of stored categories, and the act of communicating an
action to the at least one powered device based at least in part on
the act of comparing comprises communicating the categorization to
the at least one powered device.
[0068] In another embodiment, the circuit breaker apparatus is
utilized to schedule the operation of a plurality of powered
devices associated with a circuit breaker, and the method comprises
storing information comprising at least a first and second time
range, determining a current time, and managing functioning of at
least one of the plurality of powered devices based at least in
part on the stored time ranges and the current time.
[0069] In one variant, the information comprising one or more time
ranges comprises at least one of pre-set time ranges or
user-entered time ranges, the user-entered time ranges entered by
at least one user input a user device in secure data communication
with the circuit breaker.
[0070] In another variant, the at least one mechanism for
determining time comprises at least one of a real-time clock, or a
periodically updated software clock.
[0071] In yet another variant, the act of managing functioning of
the at least one powered device based at least in part on the
stored time ranges and the current time comprises: preventing the
at least one powered device from receiving power when the current
time is within the first time range, and permitting the at least
one powered device to receive power when the current time is within
the second time range. In one facet, the act of preventing the at
least one powered device from receiving power comprises causing
interruption of a circuit via manipulation of one or more
mechanical components effecting circuit breaking function resident
within the circuit breaker. The act of permitting the at least one
powered device to receive power comprises causing completion of a
circuit via manipulation of at least one mechanical component
effecting circuit breaking function resident within the circuit
breaker.
[0072] In a thirteenth aspect of the invention, system for
evaluating and scheduling operation of one of a plurality of
powered devices associated with the circuit breaker apparatus is
disclosed. In one embodiment, the system comprises a circuit
breaker apparatus comprising at least a control module, a plurality
of mechanical components effecting circuit breaking function, and
at least one sensor apparatus, a user interface, and a plurality of
powered devices associated with the circuit breaker apparatus. The
circuit breaker apparatus is adapted to communicate with and
control the plurality of powered devices.
[0073] In one variant, the control module is adapted to evaluate at
least one of the plurality of powered devices by: receiving data
regarding activity occurring on the at least one powered device
sensed at the sensor apparatus, categorizing the data according to
at least one of a plurality of categories, communicating, via a
secure connection, the categorization to the user interface,
receiving an input from the user interface indicating an action to
be taken in response to the categorization, and causing the action
to be carried out on the at least one powered device. In one facet,
the communication, via a secure connection, comprises communication
subsequent to password confirmation at a user interface. In another
facet, the password confirmation comprises a mechanism disabling
the system when an incorrect password is given more than a
prescribed number of times.
[0074] In another variant, the plurality of categories comprise at
least one of: a category calculated from normal operation of the at
least one powered device, a category downloaded from a data source
via secure communication therewith, or a category stored on the
circuit breaker apparatus by a manufacturer thereof.
[0075] In yet another variant, the control module is adapted to
schedule the operation of at least one of the plurality of powered
devices by: receive information regarding at least first and second
time ranges from the user interface via a secure connection
thereto, determine the current time, and manage functioning of the
at least one powered device based at least in part on the stored
time ranges and the current time.
[0076] In a fourteenth aspect, a method of utilizing a circuit
breaker apparatus to evaluate one of a plurality of powered devices
associated with the apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, the
method comprises: receiving data from at least one sensor apparatus
configured to sense activity occurring on at least one of a
plurality powered devices; comparing the data to a plurality of
standard data stored on a storage apparatus; determining a state of
the at least one of the plurality of powered devices as at least
one of: (i) a powered-on state in normal operation; (ii) a
powered-on state in an error condition; and/or (iii) a powered-off
state; communicating state of the individual ones of the plurality
of powered devices to a user; and communicating an action to the at
least one powered device, based at least in part on the act of
comparing. The powered-on state in normal operation is determined
when the data approximates individual ones of the plurality of
standard data indicative of normal operation of the at least one
powered device. The powered-off state is determined when the data
approximates individual ones of the plurality of standard data
indicative of the at least one powered device being turned off. The
powered-on state in error condition is determined when the data is
outside an acceptable range of the plurality of standard data.
[0077] In a fifteenth aspect, a system configured to evaluate and
schedule operation of one of a plurality of powered devices
associated with a circuit breaker apparatus is disclosed. In one
embodiment, the system comprises: (i) a circuit breaker apparatus
comprising at least a control module, a plurality of mechanical
components effecting circuit breaking function, and at least one
sensor apparatus; (ii) a web-based user interface; and (iii) a
plurality of powered devices associated with the circuit breaker
apparatus. The circuit breaker apparatus is adapted to communicate
with and control the plurality of powered devices. The web-based
interface is further configured to enable a user to view data
relating to the plurality of powered devices, and enter one or more
commands for communication to the powered devices from a
computerized device in communication with the circuit breaker
apparatus via an internetwork.
[0078] In an sixteenth aspect, a circuit breaker apparatus is
disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises: a power
supply; a control module comprising at least one mechanism
configured to determine time; and a plurality of mechanical
components configured to provide a circuit breaking function of the
circuit breaker. The control module is in data communication with
at least one user device, and is adapted to control operation of at
least one of a plurality of powered devices associated with the
circuit breaker based at least in part on the at least one
mechanism configured to determine time and a plurality of digital
data signals received from the at least one of the plurality of
powered devices. The control module is configured to utilize a
determined time and the plurality of digital data signals to
generate an estimate of future power consumption of the at least
one of the plurality of powered devices.
[0079] These and other aspects of the invention will be readily
appreciated by those of ordinary skill provided the present
disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0080] The features, objectives, and advantages of the invention
will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth
below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:
[0081] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary system utilizing
an intelligent circuit breaker (ICB);
[0082] FIG. 2 is a photograph of an actual exemplary embodiment of
the ICB of the present invention utilizing a latching relay;
[0083] FIG. 2a is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of
the ICB of the present invention utilizing a latching relay;
[0084] FIG. 2b is a block diagram of the exemplary PCB assembly for
use with an exemplary ICB utilizing a latching relay according to
the present invention;
[0085] FIG. 3 is a photograph of an actual exemplary ICB of the
present invention utilizing a latching actuator;
[0086] FIG. 3a is a side perspective view of the circuit breaker
contact features for use with an exemplary ICB utilizing a latching
actuator according to the present invention;
[0087] FIG. 3b is a side perspective view of the actuator features
of an exemplary ICB utilizing a latching actuator according to the
present invention;
[0088] FIG. 3c is a block diagram of an exemplary PCB assembly for
use with an exemplary ICB utilizing a latching actuator according
to the present invention;
[0089] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary PCB assembly
for use with an exemplary ICB utilizing either a latching relay or
a latching actuator according to the present invention;
[0090] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of exemplary low-power
off-line circuitry for use with an exemplary ICB utilizing either a
latching relay or a latching actuator according to the present
invention;
[0091] FIG. 6a is side perspective view of an exemplary bridged ICB
according to the present invention;
[0092] FIG. 6b is a front perspective view of an exemplary bridged
ICB according to the present invention;
[0093] FIG. 6c is a top elevational view of an exemplary bridged
ICB according to the present invention;
[0094] FIG. 6d is an elevational view of the bottom and top of an
exemplary bridge for use with the exemplary bridged ICB;
[0095] FIG. 7a is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method
of changing an existing circuit breaker to an ICB; and
[0096] FIG. 7b is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method
of converting an existing circuit breaker to an ICB.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0097] Reference is now made to the drawings wherein like numerals
refer to like parts throughout.
[0098] As used herein, the term "signal conditioning" or
"conditioning" shall be understood to include, but not be limited
to, signal voltage transformation, filtering and noise mitigation
or elimination, current limiting, sampling, signal processing, and
time delay.
[0099] As used herein, the term "integrated circuit" shall include
any type of integrated device of any function, whether single or
multiple die, or small or large scale of integration, and
irrespective of process or base materials (including, without
limitation Si, SiGe, CMOS and GAs) including without limitation
applications specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field
programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital processors (e.g., DSPs,
CISC microprocessors, or RISC processors), so-called
"system-on-a-chip" (SoC) devices, memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, flash
memory, ROM), mixed-signal devices, and analog ICs.
[0100] The term "processor" is meant to include any integrated
circuit or other electronic device (or collection of devices)
capable of performing an operation on at least one instruction
including, without limitation, reduced instruction set core (RISC)
processors, CISC microprocessors, microcontroller units (MCUs),
CISC-based central processing units (CPUs), and digital signal
processors (DSPs). The hardware of such devices may be integrated
onto a single substrate (e.g., silicon "die"), or distributed among
two or more substrates. Furthermore, various functional aspects of
the processor may be implemented solely as software or firmware
associated with the processor.
[0101] As used herein, the term "application" refers generally to a
unit of executable software that implements theme-based
functionality The themes of applications vary broadly across any
number of disciplines and functions (such as e-commerce
transactions, brokerage transactions, mortgage interest
calculation, home entertainment, calculator etc.), and one
application may have more than one theme. The unit of executable
software generally runs in a predetermined environment; for
example, the unit could comprise a downloadable Java Xlet.TM. that
runs within the Java.TM. environment.
[0102] As used herein, the term "computer program" is meant to
include any sequence or human or machine cognizable steps which
perform a function. Such program may be rendered in virtually any
programming language or environment including, for example, C/C++,
Fortran, COBOL, PASCAL, assembly language, markup languages (e.g.,
HTML, SGML, XML, VoXML), and the like, as well as object-oriented
environments such as the Common Object Request Broker Architecture
(CORBA), Java.TM. (including J2ME, Java Beans, etc.) and the
like.
[0103] As used herein, the terms "network" and "bearer network"
refer generally to any type of telecommunications or data network
including, without limitation, data networks (including MANs, WANs,
LANs, WLANs, internets, and intranets), hybrid fiber coax (HFC)
networks, satellite networks, and telco networks. Such networks or
portions thereof may utilize any one or more different topologies
(e.g., ring, bus, star, loop, etc.), transmission media (e.g.,
wired/RF cable, RF wireless, millimeter wave, optical, etc.) and/or
communications or networking protocols (e.g., SONET, DOCSIS, IEEE
Std. 802.3, ATM, X.25, Frame Relay, 3GPP, 3GPP2, WAP, SIP, UDP,
FTP, RTP/RTCP, H.323, etc.).
[0104] As used herein, the term "wireless" includes, but is not
limited to, IS-95, CDMA2000, Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), IrDA interface,
IEEE Std. 802.11(a) or (g), Wireless Application Protocol (WAP),
GPRS, GSM, TDMA (e.g., IS-54 or 136), UMTS, third-generation or
"3G" systems such as 3GPP and 3GPP2, ultrawideband (UWB) systems
such as TM-UWB or 802.15, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-Wave, WiMAX,
satellite systems, or any other of myriad data communication
systems and protocols well known to those of skill in the
communications arts.
[0105] As used herein, the term "digital subscriber line" (or
"DSL") shall mean any form of DSL configuration or service, whether
symmetric or otherwise, including without limitation so-called
"G.lite" ADSL (e.g., compliant with ITU G.992.2), RADSL: (rate
adaptive DSL), VDSL (very high bit rate DSL), SDSL (symmetric DSL),
SHDSL or super-high bit-rate DSL, also known as G.shdsl (e.g.,
compliant with ITU Recommendation G.991.2, approved by the ITU-T
February 2001), HDSL: (high data rate DSL), HDSL2: (2nd generation
HDSL), and IDSL (integrated services digital network DSL), UDSL, as
well as In-Premises Phoneline Networks (e.g., HPN).
[0106] As used herein, the terms "client device" and "end user
device" include, but are not limited to, personal computers (PCs)
and minicomputers, whether desktop, laptop, or otherwise, set-top
boxes, personal digital assistants (PDAs) such as the Apple
Newton.RTM., "Palm.RTM." family of devices, handheld computers such
as the Hitachi "VisionPlate", personal communicators such as the
Motorola Accompli devices, J2ME equipped devices, cellular
telephones, or literally any other device capable of interchanging
data with a network.
[0107] Additionally, the terms "site", "premises" and "structure"
as used herein shall include any location (or group of locations)
having one or more functions capable of using one or more aspects
of the present invention including, without limitation, residential
houses, apartments, trailers, watercraft (e.g., "houseboats"),
motor homes, offices, and businesses.
[0108] As used herein, the term "extension device" is meant to
include any type of telecommunications device compatible with use
on existing telecommunications lines, including without limitation
conventional telephones, answering machines, facsimile machines,
wireless or satellite receivers, and multi-line phones.
[0109] As used herein, the term "display" means any type of device
adapted to display information, including without limitation LCDs,
TFTs, plasma displays, LEDs, CRTs, FEDs, OLED and fluorescent
devices.
[0110] As used herein, the term "controller" generally refers to an
apparatus or algorithm providing one or multiple control functions
to itself or another device. Examples of controllers include
servers, schedulers, microcontrollers, PID controllers, PIC
microcontrollers and so forth.
[0111] As used herein, the term "powerline" refers to any
technology which is used to transfer data or signals over a power
distribution system, including without limitation UPB, HomePlug,
HomePlug a/v, and X-10 technologies.
[0112] As used herein, the term "UPB" or Universal Powerline Bus
refers generally to technologies which impose digital or analog
signals or pulses onto AC waveforms or DC power delivery systems,
such as for example the well known UPB industry standard approach
as set forth in "Universal Powerline Bus: The UPB System
Description", Version 1.1 dated Sep. 19, 2003, incorporated herein
by reference in its entirety.
[0113] Also, as used herein, the term "homeplug" as used herein is
meant specifically to include devices and systems compliant with
the HomePlug.TM. Powerline Alliance Specification for
powerline-based home networks (including the more recent HomePlug
A/V), and generally to include all other comparable devices adapted
for powerline networking.
[0114] Lastly, it is noted that in the present context, the term
"control" may be as simple as control of signals and/or power
applied to a device (i.e. turning AC or DC power to the device on
or off), or as complex as processor/microcontroller-based,
algorithmically controlled, multivariate operation; such as that
described in co-owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/218,899, filed Sep. 2, 2005 entitled "UNIVERSAL CONTROL
APPARATUS AND METHODS", which is incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety. "Control" may also include the prevention of one
or more occurrences. Hence, the term "control" shall be construed
broadly in the present context.
Overview
[0115] In one salient aspect of the invention, an improved
"intelligent" circuit breaker apparatus is disclosed. In one
embodiment, the breaker comprises a power supply, a control module
adapted to communicate with one or more powered devices operating
on a circuit serviced by the breaker, at least one sensor, and a
plurality of mechanical components effecting a circuit breaking
function. The control module of the circuit breaker apparatus is
adapted to communicate with the powered devices in order to
evaluate and control them. Evaluation of powered devices comprises
sensing power data (such as power consumption, current, voltage,
etc.) and comparing it to reference or standard data. The circuit
breaker apparatus controls the powered device, based on the
comparison. The circuit breaker apparatus may indicate to a user
the status of the device, may indicate the status to the device
itself, or may cause power to cease flowing to the device.
[0116] Control of the powered devices may alternatively be based on
e.g., timing. For example, the circuit breaker may be adapted to
enable a user, or other authorized person, to set certain time
periods within which a particular device may or may not be used.
Thus, the power company could prescribe that dryers cannot be used
between 12 pm and 5 pm; accordingly, the circuit breaker would stop
the dryer from receiving power during that time period.
[0117] The circuit breaker apparatus may also perform one or more
mathematical calculations including power consumption, power
accumulation, costs associated with power consumed, and estimated
power use for future periods given previous periods of use.
[0118] Communication between the circuit breaker apparatus and the
powered devices may occur via power conductors associated with the
devices, such as utilized by the HomePlug Command and Control
module. Alternatively, the devices may communicate wirelessly, or
via other means.
Intelligent Circuit Breaker (ICB) System--
[0119] It will be recognized that while the terms "home" and
"consumer" may be used herein in association with one or more
aspects and exemplary embodiments of the invention, the invention
is in no way limited to such applications. The various aspects of
the present invention may be applied with equal success in, inter
alia, small or large business (e.g., so-called "enterprise"
systems), industrial, and even military applications if desired. It
is further noted that one or more of the described components may
be used in conjunction with one another, i.e. an exemplary system
may include one device or many, likewise one ICB or more may be
utilized. Furthermore, while certain embodiments are described in
terms of an exemplary UPB or HomePlug protocols, the use of a
particular protocol within a particular device is completely
flexible, and other such protocols or technologies can be
substituted. Accordingly, the following discussion is merely
exemplary of the broader concepts.
[0120] It is also appreciated that traditional circuit breakers are
often employed on a panel having several individual circuit
breakers disposed thereon; and while the present invention is
primarily described in terms of a single circuit breaker, the ICB
of the present invention would advantageously be employed in a
manner consistent with that of traditional circuit breaker systems,
i.e. more than one ICB disposed on a panel and thus covering all or
a plurality of the devices in a home or other premises. It is
further noted that the present invention may also advantageously
comprise multiple ICB mechanically and electrically connected in
split phase and/or three-phase distribution systems and/or other
configurations to achieve alternative distribution goals.
[0121] Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary system 100 utilizing a
substantially automated intelligent circuit breaker 102 is
described in detail. As illustrated, the system 100 comprises at
least one intelligent circuit breaker (ICB) 102, which will be
discussed in further detail below. The ICB 102 is in communication
with a plurality of power utilizing devices 104 and a user
interface 106. The ICB 102 may be a single 15 A, 20 A, 30 A, 40 A,
or 50 A circuit; or alternatively may comprise a 240V split phase,
or three-phase circuit (thus necessitating several ICB 102) as
discussed below.
[0122] The power utilizing devices 104 include any electrical
devices operating in or adjacent to a consumer's premises. The
power utilizing devices 104 may therefore include, inter alia,
appliances (e.g. washer, dryer, dishwasher, etc.), computers,
televisions, air conditioning units, water heaters, lighting
devices, pool equipment, and telephone devices. All of the
electrical items that are powered can generally be monitored and
controlled to some extent, to include literally any type of
electronic or electromechanical devices capable of receiving
control inputs. Communication between the power utilizing devices
104 and ICB 102 of the present invention may be accomplished via
the shared wired electrical connection, or alternatively may be
accomplished via a wireless technology, such as by utilizing
Bluetooth technology, WiMAX, ZigBee, etc. It will be appreciated
however, that in many instances the wired approaches have the
advantages of ultra-low cost and simplicity of installation (and
operation) as well as reliability. It is however recognized that
wireless systems and interfaces are becoming much more ubiquitous.
For example, in one variant of the present invention, one or more
devices 104 configured with short-range wireless interfaces such as
e.g., those compliant with the Bluetooth or IrDA specifications,
thereby obviating a direct wiring run from the device 104. This
approach adds significant flexibility, yet increases the cost of
the devices 104 (and also the controlled components). The present
invention also contemplates the use of multiple air interfaces
(e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) in a common platform in order to
provide heterogeneous wireless capabilities, such as those capable
of different data rates or communication ranges.
[0123] The user interface 106 may, in one embodiment, comprise a
physical display (not shown) with which a user may interact
disposed directly on the ICB 102. Such display might comprise e.g.,
an LCD touch screen of the type well known in the art, or simply a
passive display device (e.g., LCD or LED). According to this
embodiment, the ICB 102 would be adapted to include a more complex
processing system, increased storage, and display and input
elements. In another embodiment, the user interface 106 is
physically located remote to the ICB 102 and ICB system 100. The
user interface 106 may, for example, be a computer program adapted
to be run on a user's personal computer, laptop, or other
computerized device such as a smartphone. Alternatively, the user
interface 106 may comprise a web-based interface accessible by any
internet-enabled device and able to download/upload data regarding
power, power factor, current, frequency, rates, and tiered rates,
etc.
[0124] In yet another example, the user interface 106 may exist
purely at the manufacturer or distributor or service provider
(e.g., electric company or its proxy) with no user interface per se
accessible by the consumer of the ICB 102.
[0125] In yet another example, the user interface 106 may exist at
an external monitoring service provider, such as a security
monitoring company. The external monitoring service provider can
then provide data as well as other information to the consumer via
alternative arrangements.
Intelligent Circuit Breaker (ICB)--
[0126] As discussed above, a key component of the ICB system 100 is
the ICB 102 itself. Generally, the exemplary embodiment of the ICB
102 comprises a plurality of components, including inter alia, a
low-frequency AC power supply network (e.g., HomePlug or comparable
powerline system) system, a power sensor, and various circuit
breaker mechanical components. Each of these components as well as
other embodiment-specific components will be discussed in detail
below. As will be described in greater detail below, these
components interact with one other to varying degrees in order to
effectuate the desired monitoring and control of the various
devices 104 within the system.
Relay-Activated Embodiment--
[0127] Referring now to FIG. 2, a photograph of an actual exemplary
ICB 102a is depicted. In the illustrated embodiment, the ICB 102a
is relay-activated. Ideally, the latching relay of the
relay-activated intelligent circuit board 102a comprises a magnetic
latch however; mechanical latching (such as lever, screw, motor,
magnet, spring latch, etc.) and single state stable relays and/or
solenoid actuators may also be utilized consistent with the present
invention.
[0128] FIG. 2a is a block diagram illustrating, in more detail, the
various components of an exemplary ICB 102a utilizing a latching
relay 204.
[0129] The illustrated embodiment of the relay-activated ICB 102a
generally comprises a toroidal inductor 210 of the type well known
in the electronic arts. However, it is appreciated that in an
alternative embodiment (not shown), the toroid 210 may be
eliminated since isolation is not required for the design. Rather,
the minimization of noise coupling in the absence of the toroid 210
can be accomplished via a careful layout, and/or other techniques
known to the skilled artisan.
[0130] The relay-activated ICB 102a also generally comprises a
relay 204 associated with a printed circuit board assembly 206a.
The relay 204 of the illustrated embodiment advantageously
comprises relay contacts 208 which complete the circuit associated
with the ICB 102a when in the "closed" position and interrupt the
circuit when switched to an "open" position. In the illustrated
embodiment, a magnetically latching relay 204 is depicted; however,
as discussed above, it will be appreciated that other latch
mechanisms may be incorporated consistent with the present
invention. The printed circuit board assembly 206a, inter alia,
comprises a controller 224 which will be discussed in greater
detail below.
[0131] The relay-activated ICB 102a also comprises an LED light 212
and a push button switch 214. The push button switch 214 allows a
user to manually control the function of the ICB 102a.
Specifically, the switch 214 is used to put the controller 224 into
program mode. During program mode, the appropriate address and
security code (e.g., that of the ICB node 102a or another node in
communication therewith) can be securely loaded into the controller
224. It is appreciated that in one embodiment, the system may be
designed to "lock" a user out if an incorrect password, security
code or ID is supplied more than a certain number of times; thereby
making the system tamper proof. According to this model, it may be
appreciated that the manufacturer may install a seal or other
device in order to disable certain functions of the system to an
unauthorized user. The switch 214 may also be used to reset an ID
or pass code, change modes (e.g., between on/off, program mode,
self-test mode, etc.) The LED light 212 is adapted to indicate to a
viewer the status of the relay 204 on the ICB 102a. Thus, the LED
212 may comprise a bi-color light, with flashing, etc. capabilities
so as to confirm on/off, program mode, self-test mode, and various
other indictors during programming or operation. The LED 212 may
also indicate which version of various programs is selected and/or
indicate an error via a watchdog or diagnostic (or last state)
program. Other components of the relay-activated ICB 102a well
known in the art are illustrated as well.
[0132] FIG. 2b illustrates the circuitry present on the printed
circuit board assembly 206a of the relay-activated ICB 102a
embodiment discussed above. As illustrated, the PCB circuitry
comprises an off-line power supply 222 disposed thereon. The
off-line power supply 222 provides power for the controller 224 and
the power sensor 220.
[0133] The assembly 206a further comprises a low-frequency AC power
supply network (e.g., HomePlug or comparable powerline system or
other system utilizing radio frequency (RF) waves, wireless
communication methods, or infrared (IR) or other light based
communication for communication with devices 104) system which is
depicted by its controller sub-board 224. The controller 224 has a
transmit/receive coupling to the line and neutral using T1, a
toroid transformer. However, as noted above, other powerline
communications approaches may also be used to control the
breaker.
[0134] A power sensor sub-board 220 which is adapted to monitor
(i.e. sense) power usage is also disposed in the ICB 102a. The
power sensor 220 in this embodiment is an integrated circuit (IC),
ADE7753, designed for power measuring. The power sensed is
communicated by a "SPI" port 402 to the controller 224. The
controller 224 can collect and manage the watt-hours used (both
positive and negative watt-hours) and also provide voltage,
current, frequency, temperature and power factor data. R43 is the
shunt to measure the load current; however, a current sensor
transformer or a Rogowski coil may be advantageously utilized as
well. In one embodiment, the power sensor 220 comprises an external
sensor input adapted to measure current from the current
transformer, voltage, frequency or pulse, temperature (via a
thermocoupler and RTD thermistor), discrete (dry-contact or TTL),
and/or an analog or digital set-point. The contact or TTL input may
be used to externally enable or disable certain functions, such as
the timer, diagnostic data recording and power measurement.
[0135] The power sensor 220 is also, in one embodiment, adapted to
measure one or more output parameters to estimate whether the
devices attached to that ICB 102a are switched on or off. The
estimate may be based in part on power usage (e.g., according to
P=IV), in that certain states correspond to certain current usage.
Thus, in an example where three devices 104 are served on one
outlet, different power usage states would correspond to there
being no devices 104 "on", only one device 104 on, two devices 104
on, and all three devices 104 on. As used in this context, the term
"on" refers to a state where the power consumption is at least
intermittently significant, as contrasted with insignificant but
substantially continuous current draw (such as the clock on a
powered-down oven). The ICB 102a, via its memory, may be adapted to
access the threshold or nominal power usages or ratings for each
state, and accordingly make a determination or estimate as to the
operational state of each device. The ICB 102a may know the states
by preprogramming the ICB 102a for the devices associated with each
circuit (e.g., a 1000 W hairdryer, 60 W incandescent lamp, and 1200
W steam iron all served by the same circuit); or, alternatively the
ICB 102a may have preprogrammed threshold or rating values. In yet
another embodiment, the ICB 102a would be adapted to communicate
with properly equipped devices 104 by sending/receiving data over
the power conductors according to a prescribed communication
protocol, thereby directly determining the rating(s), duty cycle,
etc. of each device, and even its status (e.g., powered on, off,
clock on, standby, etc.). Accordingly, "smart" appliances would be
adapted to transmit signals to the ICB 102a, or make such data
accessible to the ICB upon inquiry.
[0136] The PCB assembly 206a may also advantageously comprise a
line coupler 226 and/or current sensor 228 of the type well known
in the electrical arts.
[0137] The PCB assembly 206a of the relay-activated ICB 102a also
depicts the above described association of the LED light 212 and
push button switch 214 with the PCB 206a. As is illustrated, both
the LED light 212 and the switch 214 are powered by the power
supply 222. Also as discussed above, the switch 214 permits a user
or other activation device to physically cause the completion or
interruption of the circuit.
[0138] As is well known in the electronic arts, the relay 204 is
adapted to act as an electric switch that opens and closes under
control of a relay controlling circuit 230 which is disposed on the
printed circuit board 206a of the ICB 102a. The PCB assembly 206a
depicts the relay controlling circuit 230 and its association to
the relay 204 as discussed. The relay 204 may control whether or
not the circuit is complete via the controlling circuit 230 in a
separate (and/or remote) mechanism than the user-activated push
button switch 214 (which may be primarily utilized as a "test"
button).
[0139] The relay 204 is driven via TRIACs, Q1/Q2, through diodes
since the magnetically latching requires a DC pulse. It is
appreciated; however, that other relays (not shown) may be utilized
consistent with the present invention, such other relays may
require AC without diodes. The R9 senses for output to verify that
the relay 204 has switched, and R11 indicates the 60 cycle zero
crossings to determine proper switching time.
[0140] Also depicted in FIG. 2b is the standard circuit breaker 232
having toggle switch 234. It is appreciated that the ICB 102a of
the present embodiment is adapted to work in conjunction with the
existing circuit breaker 232 such that the controller 224 may
override the standard circuit breaker 232 and cause a fault
condition and/or may restore the breaker from fault condition.
Actuator-Activated Embodiment--
[0141] Referring now to FIG. 3, a photograph of a second actual
exemplary ICB 102b is depicted. In the illustrated embodiment, the
ICB 102b is actuator-activated to mechanically push open the
circuit breaker contact to turn off the output. The illustrated
embodiment depicts a magnetically latching activator, however, an
electronic solenoid with magnetic latch (or mechanical latch such
as a lever, screw, motor, magnet, spring latch, etc.) and single
side stable latching mechanisms may also be utilized consistent
with the present invention.
[0142] FIG. 3a is a block diagram illustrating, in more detail, the
various components of an exemplary ICB 102b utilizing a latching
actuator 308 (see FIG. 3b).
[0143] The actuator-activated ICB 102b may also advantageously
comprise an LED light 212 and a push button switch 214 as discussed
with regard to the relay-activated ICB 102a. Other components of
the relay-activated ICB 102b well known in the art are illustrated
as well.
[0144] The actuator-activated ICB 102b generally comprises a toggle
switch 234 having an associated switch pivot arm 306. The pivot arm
306 of the toggle switch 234 is adapted to interact with and cause
a physical movement of the circuit breaker contact arm 310.
However, in this embodiment, an actuator 308 (see FIG. 3b) may also
cause the physical movement of the contact arm 310 without prior
movement of the toggle switch 234 as will be discussed below. The
circuit breaker contact arm 310, when physically moved, causes the
contact ends 314 to come into and out of contact with the
stationary line input contact 304; which completes and interrupts
the circuit associated with the ICB 102b respectively.
[0145] As discussed above, one mechanism by which the contact is
physically moved comprises a user physically manipulating the
toggle switch 234. As depicted, a user may cause the toggle switch
234 to be moved in direction A, this movement causes the pivot arm
306 to rotate and travel in the direction B. Because the switch
pivot arm 306 is physically connected to the contact pivot arm 310,
the contact arm 310 is rotated about its pivot in the direction
given by C. This rotation causes the contact end 314 of the contact
arm 310 to move in direction D, thus toward the stationary line
input contact 304 and thereby causes completion of the circuit. It
is appreciated that a fault will reverse the directions of movement
listed by A, B, C and D and, in that situation, the contact end 314
is moved away from the line contact 304 and the circuit is
interrupted.
[0146] FIG. 3a also illustrates the access aperture 312. The access
aperture 312 advantageously provides access to the inner housing
divider for access to open breaker contacts. The access aperture
312 generally comprises a hole in the housing center divider (not
shown) and top cover (not shown) will be discussed in further
detail below with regard to FIG. 3b.
[0147] Referring now to FIG. 3b, the actuator-activated ICB 102b is
depicted having a magnetically latching actuator 308 disposed
therein. The actuator 308 of the illustrated embodiment is disposed
in a manner which does not affect a user's ability to physically
manipulate the toggle switch 234. The actuator 308 further
comprises ears 318 which fit into notches in the center housing
divider (not shown) and top cover (not shown); thereby holding it
into position above the contact body 312. The actuator 308 also
comprises a pivot 320 which is adapted to insert into the access
aperture 312, this configuration advantageously forces and holds
the actuator into the desired "open" position while permitting the
actuator pivot 320 to cause an actuator arm 322 to rotate, pushing
the contact end 314 away from the stationary contact 304 and
interrupting the circuit.
[0148] FIG. 3c illustrates the circuitry present on the printed
circuit board assembly 206b of the actuator-activated ICB 102b
embodiment discussed above. As illustrated, the PCB circuitry
comprises an off-line power supply 222 disposed thereon. The
off-line power supply 222 provides power for the controller 224 and
the power sensor 220.
[0149] The assembly 206b further comprises a low-frequency AC power
supply network (e.g., HomePlug or comparable powerline system)
system which is depicted by its controller sub-board 224. The
controller 224 has a transmit/receive coupling to the line and
neutral using T1, a toroid transformer. However, as noted above,
other powerline communications approaches may also be used to
control the breaker.
[0150] A power sensor sub-board 220 which is adapted to monitor
(i.e. sense) power usage is also disposed in the ICB 102b. The
power sensor 220 in this embodiment is an integrated circuit (IC),
ADE7753, designed for power measuring. The power sensed is
communicated by a "SPI" port 402 to the controller 224. The
controller 224 can collect and manage the watt-hours used and also
provide voltage, current, temperature, frequency and power factor
data. R43 is the shunt to measure the load current; however, a
current sensor transformer or a Rogowski coil may be advantageously
utilized as well.
[0151] The power sensor 220 is also, in one embodiment, adapted to
measure for an output to estimate whether the devices attached to
that ICB 102b are switched on or off. The estimate may be based in
part on power usage in that certain states correspond to certain
current usage. Thus, in an example where three devices 104 are on
one outlet (via a power strip for example), a certain power usage
states would correspond to there being no devices 104 on, only one
device 104 on, two devices 104 on, and all three devices 104 on.
The ICB 102b, via its memory, may be adapted to know the threshold
power usages for each state. The ICB 102b may know the states by
preprogramming the ICB 102b for the devices associated with each
circuit; or, alternatively, the ICB 102b may have preprogrammed
threshold values for certain devices 104. In yet another
embodiment, the ICB 102b would be adapted to communicate with
devices 104 by sending data over power. Accordingly, "smart"
appliances would be adapted to transmit signals to the ICB 102b
which is adapted to process the voltage wave form.
[0152] The PCB assembly 206b may also advantageously comprise a
line coupler 226 and/or current sensor 228.
[0153] The PCB assembly 206b of the actuator-activated ICB 102b
also depicts the above described association of the LED light 212
and push button switch 214 with the PCB 206b. As is illustrated,
both the LED light 212 and the switch 214 are powered by the power
supply 222. Also as discussed above, the switch 214 permits a user
or other activation device to physically cause the completion or
interruption of the circuit.
[0154] As is well known in the electronic arts, the actuator 308 is
adapted to act as an electric switch that physically move (thus
pushing open and close the contact arm 310) under control of an
actuator controlling circuit 330 which is disposed on the printed
circuit board 206b of the ICB 102b. The PCB assembly 206b depicts
the actuator controlling circuit 330 and its association to the
actuator 308 as discussed. The actuator 308 may control whether or
not the circuit is complete via the controlling circuit 330 in a
separate (and/or remote) mechanism than the user-activated push
button switch 214 (which may be primarily utilized as a "test"
button).
[0155] The actuator 308 is in the illustrated embodiment driven via
TRIACs, Q1/Q2, through diodes since the magnetic latching requires
a DC pulse. It is appreciated, however, that other actuators (not
shown) may be utilized consistent with the present invention, and
such other actuators may require AC (no diodes). The R9 circuit
senses for output to verify that the actuator 308 has switched, and
the R11 circuit indicates the 60 Hz zero-crossings to determine
proper switching time.
[0156] Also depicted in FIG. 3c is the standard circuit breaker 232
having toggle switch 234. It is appreciated that the ICB 102b of
the present embodiment is adapted to work in conjunction with the
existing circuit breaker 232, such that the controller 224 may
override the standard circuit breaker 232 and cause a fault
condition, and/or may restore the breaker from a fault
condition.
[0157] FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary printed circuit board
assembly 206c. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts relay
drivers 230 and a magnetic latching relay 204, it will be
appreciated that the assembly 206c may also be utilized with an
actuator-activated ICB 102b as well.
[0158] The PCB assembly 206c comprises a PCB (not shown) having an
off-line power supply 222 disposed thereon. The power supply 222 of
the illustrated embodiment is adapted to generate 5V and 3.3V of
power. However, it will be appreciated that other power supply
types, including on line or line interactive supplies and those
generating other voltage amounts may be utilized consistent with
the present invention.
[0159] The power supply for use in the above-described embodiment
is a non-isolated 120 VAC to +5 VDC flyback type converter using a
low cost flyback converter IC. The Dl rectifier charges up C1 and
C2 to -150 VDC which is further filtered by L1. L2 forms an auto
type transformer to step up the output current. D5 charges C6. The
D8 4.3V zener is about 4V at the low operating current and the U2
opto-isolator conducts at about 5V output and provides the feedback
to the U1 converter to maintain the 5V output regulation. The 3.3V
is generated by a simple emitter follower which is, conveniently,
biased by the 4.3 v (4V) plus the 0.7V Q3 transistor producing the
3.3 VDC output voltage. The ferrite beads FB1 and FB2 prevent the
switching spikes from leaving the supply portion of the circuit. It
is also appreciated that an isolated supply can be utilized as well
by simply replacing the L2 with an isolation transformer and using
a more appropriate converter U1, such as an exemplary LNK362 device
of the type well known in the art.
[0160] The assembly 206c also comprises a power sensor 220 adapted
to monitor the power utilization of the devices 104 associated with
the circuit. The power sensor 220 of the illustrated embodiment is
an integrated circuit (IC) such as an Analog Devices ADE7753 or
similar designed for power measuring, and communicates by an "SPI"
port 402 with the controller 224. The controller 224 can collect
and manage the watt-hours used, and also provide voltage and
current data or other relevant data. R43 comprises the shunt used
to measure the load current. In one embodiment, the power sensor
220 is adapted to measure for an output to ensure that the output
is switched on or off.
[0161] The controller 224 in the illustrated embodiment comprises
an HPCC control module of the type known in the home
power/automation arts; however, it will be appreciated that any
low-frequency AC power supply network system or comparable
powerline system may be readily substituted to impart the requisite
control functions. For example, the controller 224 may utilize
radio frequency (RF) waves to communicate with devices 104,
wireless forms of communication, or infrared (IR) or other light
based communication. The exemplary controller 224 consists of an
HPCC modem with a controller function, and has a transmit/receive
coupling to the line and neutral using T1, a toroid transformer.
However, as noted above, other powerline communications may also be
used to control the breaker.
[0162] As previously indicated, the aforementioned PCB assembly
206c may be utilized in conjunction with an actuator-activated ICB
102b via the same or similar approach to that described above with
regard to the relay-activated ICB 102b embodiment.
Low-Wattage Embodiment--
[0163] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the above described exemplary
embodiment of the ICB system 100 utilizes a low power off-line (1
Watt) supply 222. The low-wattage embodiment is advantageous
because inter alia by reducing the power used for the driver, the
power supply (such as by not requiring a transformer or tapped
inductor) complexity, size, and cost are also reduced. In the
illustrated embodiment, the power supply 222 does not utilize a
tapped inductor. The power supply 22 of the illustrated embodiment
uses a series capacitor with a zener diode and rectifier to reduce
the input AC voltage to approximately 30V. A 30 V low-voltage
converter is then utilized to generate 5V or 3.3 V of power as
needed. It is appreciated, however, that other arrangements and
voltage generating configurations may be utilized consistent with
the present invention. It is further appreciated that the low power
assembly may be incorporated into either a relay-activated 102a or
actuator-activated ICB 102b.
Bridged Embodiment--
[0164] In yet another embodiment, depicted in FIGS. 6a-d, two or
more ICBs 102 (either relay-activated 102a or actuator-activated
102b) may be bridged (or ganged) together with a bar or bracket. As
is well known in the electrical arts, joining three breakers (in
this embodiment three ICBs 102) facilitates three-phase
applications; however, other applications utilizing more or fewer
ICBs 102, whether used in a common system or distinct circuits, are
also contemplated.
[0165] FIG. 6a illustrates a side perspective view of exemplary
three-phase ICB 102 according to the present invention. As
illustrated, the individual ICB 102 each comprise circuit breaker
toggle switches 234 which are adapted to move their respective
contacts within the ICB 102 to an open or closed position as
described above. The toggle switches 234 may also be moved by the
relay 204 or actuator 308, which are controlled by the controller
224 disposed within the ICB 102 as well. It is appreciated that to
create the three-phase bridged ICB 102, a bridge or other mechanism
linking the toggle switches 234 to one another is needed, as
described below. The individual ICBs 102 of the three-phase bridged
ICB 102 are attached or ganged, in the illustrated embodiment, by a
clip 602. The clip 602 comprises a small protrusion which is
adapted to fit within an opening (not shown) on a second ICB 102.
Each ICB 102 will therefore comprise at least one protruding clip
602 on one face, and an opening on the opposite face. Thus, several
ICBs 102 may be aligned and snapped together. Apertures 604a and
604b may also be drilled or knocked out for tying the breaker trip
levers together or for routing neutral wires (or other wires) in
order to facilitate current/voltage measurements and/or to
implement GFI and/or AFIC functions within the apparatus.
[0166] Referring now to FIG. 6b, a front perspective view of the
exemplary bridged ICB 102 of FIG. 6a is given. The load terminals
606 of each ICB 102 are depicted. Also illustrated is the bridge
604 which links the toggle switches 234 of the ICBs 102. Thus, when
the relay 204 or actuator 308 of one ICB 102 interrupts the circuit
(in the manner discussed above) and moves the toggle switch 234 of
one ICB 102 to the open position (with regard to the contacts), the
toggle switches 234 of all of the ICB 102 are moved to the open
position. Further, because the bridge 604 links each of the toggle
switches 234, it is noted that actual manual manipulation of any
one of the bridged switches 234 results in movement of all of the
bridged switches 234.
[0167] The bridge 604 would, in one example, connect the switches
234 of the ICBs 102 together to form a dual 220V breaker, which may
employed for example in pool pumps, spas, water heaters, etc. Other
arrangements and applications are also contemplated by the present
disclosure.
[0168] FIG. 6c is a top elevational view of an exemplary bridged
ICB 102 according to the present invention. As depicted, the bridge
604 links the toggle switches 234 of the ICBs 102. The
aforementioned clip 602 features of the ICBs 102 are also
depicted.
[0169] FIG. 6d is an elevational view of the bottom and top of an
exemplary bridge 604 for use with the exemplary ganged ICB 102. As
illustrated, the exemplary bridge 604 comprises several apertures
608 for receiving the toggle switches 234 of the ICBs 102.
[0170] In another embodiment, two ICB 102 are linked together by
riveting or snapping; a bridge 604 is then used to link the ICB 102
toggle switches 234 (as above), and software/firmware present
within the ICB 102 or ICB interface is used to tie the controllers
224 of each ICB 102 together so that they operate the phases
together as well as measure power, calculate power, and perform
other above stated functions.
[0171] The overall effect of the bridged ICB 102 is to link
together two or more separate control circuits. This gives the
individual devices 104 connected via the bridge 604, one unified
controller function. In another embodiment, only one controller 224
is utilized; this embodiment also serves to reduce costs, in that
fewer PCB assemblies 206 (206a, 206b, or 206c) would be required to
control more than one device 104. It is also appreciated that one
controller 224 may be utilized with separate current sensors 228
and/or power sensors 220 for each ICB 102 connected in phase.
Additional Functions--
[0172] As discussed above, an ICB 102 generally comprises a power
supply, a controller, a power sensor, and various circuit breaker
mechanical components. Various other components may also be used in
addition to the aforementioned components to impart various
functions to the ICB system 100. As used below, the ICB 102 is used
interchangeably to refer to both the relay-activated ICB 102a and
the actuator-activated ICB 102b.
[0173] As discussed above, the ICB 102 of the present invention may
be adapted to include power measuring functionality, including the
ability to measure both positive and negative accumulation of
kilowatt-hours. The power measuring device (power sensor 220) may
be utilized in conjunction with a clock function (e.g., built-in
real time clock, or periodically updated software clock) to measure
and store the amount of Watt-hours for specified periods, such as
during peak times and shortage days. In one embodiment, the
periodically updated software clock may be updated daily via
external communication. Thus, a user may be informed of the actual
costs of operation for devices 104 during peak periods, as well as
costs during off-peak hours. The user may also cause the ICB 102 to
automatically shut down or preclude startup during specified
periods, such as higher rate periods, the shut down being
accomplished via causing the relay or breaker to open during these
periods or open only when a user attempts to use the devices 104
during this period; this may be especially advantageous for devices
104 which consume significant power such as, for example, electric
water heaters. The present invention also contemplates that a user
can schedule various operations or uses around the rate schedule
for their electricity; i.e., certain devices will only come on or
be permitted to be started at off-peak hours, such as air
conditioners or electric clothes dryers.
[0174] A timer function may also be included so that power will
automatically by shut down by the ICB 102 at user-specified
times.
[0175] In yet another embodiment, the power sensor 220 enables a
user to set overload or dangerous conditions under which the ICB
102 will automatically shut down associated devices 104. For
example, the user may indicate that if kilowatt-hours are greater
than some threshold level, the ICB 102 will shut down and/or signal
another device (via an alarm or alert message). The conditions
specified may be measured by, inter alia, a current sensor or the
like, or a thermal function.
[0176] In another embodiment, the power sensor 220 allows the ICB
102 to perform routine tests on the devices 104 associated
therewith. In one variant, this function is accomplished by first
characterizing the signature of the correct working appliance. When
the power signature changes (based on, e.g., a periodic comparison
or evaluation), the ICB 102 alerts the user or even a remote
monitoring facility that the device 104 is malfunctioning. For
example, the ICB 102 may perform a test on a refrigerator/freezer
to obtain a power signature representing the power usage and duty
cycle of the appliance under certain ambient conditions. This may
be normalized or averaged if desired to obtain "typical" usage
parameters, even on a daily or seasonal basis (e.g., "Summer
profile", "Weekend profile", etc.). Later, when the ICB 102
receives power sensor 220 data that indicates that the duty cycle
has changed significantly (e.g., the refrigerator compressor is
being constantly run), it could inform the user of the condition,
and even a suggested cause, such as that the door may be open, the
Freon is low, a belt is loose, etc. When the ICB 102 receives power
sensor 220 data that no power is being utilized by the appliance,
it would inform the user that the appliance has prospectively
failed, or that another problem may exist (i.e., the plug has been
pulled from the wall socket, the on/off switch inside the
refrigerator has been inadvertently switched to off, etc.).
[0177] Other power sensor 220 functions are also readily
appreciated by those of ordinary skill given the disclosure herein,
such as for example and without limitation detection of current
transients or peaks which may indicate intermittent shorting or
electrical fault within the device, or selecting between two
competing sources or devices based on economics.
Monitoring--
[0178] In one embodiment, the abovementioned components enable the
ICB 102 to measure and accumulate data regarding the amounts of
power used on a particular load or appliance per time of day.
Accordingly, the ICB 102 of this embodiment would also include a
non-volatile memory device (not shown); such memory may include,
inter alia, a read-only memory, a flash memory, a magnetic computer
storage devices (e.g. hard disks, floppy disk drives, and magnetic
tape), or an optical disc drive. However, in an alternative
embodiment, such memory device would be located remote to the ICB
102, though in communication therewith. The memory device of this
embodiment would also advantageously comprise a mechanism for
applying a time stamp to the data stored. In yet another
embodiment, the memory device would be further adapted to manage
accumulated information from an ICB 102 for more than one cost
rate. For example, the ICB 102 may store tiered energy rates
(different rates based on one or more factors or device types) and
information regarding the categories of devices or load rates
(based on time of day). In one example, different rates may apply
to devices having medical or non-profit uses, HVAC devices,
entertainment or luxury devices, etc. Such mechanisms are well
known in the electronic arts and thus will not be discussed in
further detail herein.
Gathering and Examining Historical Data--
[0179] In another embodiment, the abovementioned components enable
the ICB 102 to give the user information regarding how much power a
particular device 104 is consuming and costing by measuring and
accumulating the power used for that particular device 104 via a
user interface. The ICB 102 may also use the information to
calculate mathematical functions such as how much energy has been
used and/or estimate the energy that will be used in the next week,
month, or other period. (Alternatively, the ability to calculate
may be reserved to the user interface upon receipt of appropriate
information.) The ICB 1052 may also utilize stored rate information
to calculate a monthly or periodic power bill or estimation based
on for example MTD usage, tiered energy rates, taxes, additional
fees, etc. The historical data may also be used to determine usage
above "normal usage" which may then be indicative of device 104
malfunctioning. This information may encourage the user to take
appropriate action to reduce the power consumption and better
manage the particular devices' 104 usage. As discussed above, the
ICB 102 of this embodiment would advantageously comprise a
non-volatile memory device in order to enable the ICB 102 to
collect and store the power consumption data. The data recorded may
comprise, inter alia, factory calibration information, power,
current, voltage, power factor, harmonics, trigger, load signature
(including loss of power information and/or actuation date/time),
general date/time log information, as well as tiered power rates
for the month/day/period. The tiered power rates refer to instances
where the rates charged for power usage depend on one or more
factors such as time of day or by creating levels of service having
different rates (e.g., more than a certain number of watt-hours
used places a consumer in a higher-rated tier). Including this
information enables ICB 102 to incorporate billing functionality
e.g., the ICB 102 calculates how much a customer will owe based on
usage and tiered rates. The ICB 102 may also be able to
differentiate power usage from among several users such as in a
multiple dwelling unit situation (e.g., apartment complex,
condominium complex, etc.) and bill individual users from a single
ICB 102. The ICB 102 will also comprise a time stamp mechanism to
adequately represent the data collected as a function of the
particular day/time the device 104 was used. Further, it would be
advantageous for the ICB 102 of the present invention to comprise a
user interface having one or more applications adapted to run
thereon permitting the graphical or other representation of the
collected data. The user interface will be discussed in further
detail below.
Fault Indication--
[0180] By combining power, voltage, current, and power factor data
with the device history and/or the state of the device, the system
can provide fault indications and indicate preventive maintenance
and/or alert the user or initiate instruction to the device 104,
dealer, or manufacturer for services required. For example, if
system 100 is used having an HVAC unit connected to the ICB 102
(i.e. an HVAC as a "device" 104); when the HVAC fan is turned on
the ICB 102 would note a particular level of power used being
indicative of a functioning fan. Subsequently, when the ICB 102
measures the use of power or drain current as low, the system 100
would know that this is indicative of a dirty filter. Similarly,
the power utilization of the compressor would be indicative of
functionality, such as by indicating that the compressor is low on
Freon.
[0181] According to this embodiment, the ICB 102 would
advantageously utilize a non-volatile memory device as discussed
above, as well as the aforementioned time stamp mechanism. The ICB
102 of this embodiment would also further comprise stored
comparison data on the memory device, such that the controller
would have a predetermined power consumption level (factory default
for comparison and/or calibration) to measure current consumption
levels against in order to diagnose a problem and/or check circuit
functionality. The ICB 102 would also further comprise an alert
mechanism such as an alarm or indicator light to notify a user that
a device is not performing on par with other working devices.
Lastly, according to this embodiment, it may be advantageous for
the ICB system 100 to further comprise a user interface adapted to
give a user information regarding the fault detected. The user
interface will be discussed in detail below.
Timer--
[0182] In another embodiment, an internal timer can be set to delay
the turn on or turn off of a device, i.e., during peak power
consumption times during the day, certain devices might
automatically be turned off or turning them on may be delayed. For
example, it is not energy efficient to run dryers and dishwashers
during the day in summer, accordingly, a user may set these devices
to turn off during the afternoon hours and not be permitted to turn
on again until after those hours have passed. The ICB 102 may
automatically restore the devices which were set to turn off during
the peak period. Alternatively, a command may be sent (e.g. from
the utility company) to the ICB system 100 of the present invention
to turn off specific devices 104 for a prescribed period and then
to automatically turn these back on after the prescribed
period.
[0183] This embodiment would require the ICB 102 to further
comprise a timer or other mechanism enabling the IBC 102 to
understand time restraints, a mechanism for reactivating devices
(i.e. internal circuitry for activating the actuator 308 or relay
204 so as to re-establish a contact in that circuit such as by
closing the relay or breaker at specific times), and a mechanism
for receiving commands to the controller. The mechanism for
receiving commands may be a wired or wireless connection such as
those well known in the arts.
Brown-Out Conditions--
[0184] The embodiment discussed above may advantageously be
employed to enable the power sensor 220, 406 to monitor for
brown-out conditions, and use the low voltage with the resulting
current increase to cause the ICB 102 to switch off the load to
protect the vulnerable device 104. According to this embodiment,
the ICB 102 would further comprise a non-volatile memory adapted to
store data regarding the conditions under which the ICB 102 should
shut down certain loads to protect a device 104 (such as a
compressor or other motor) termed "trigger points"; the ICB 102
would also store data regarding which devices 104 would require
protection and which may be shut down and/or data regarding the
trigger points for shut down including thresholds for power, power
factor, voltage, current, frequency, cost, harmonics, etc. The
controller would then utilize this data to determine which circuits
to interrupt.
Generating Records and Technical Support--
[0185] The ICB 102 may also be adapted to generate records when a
circuit is interrupted so that a technician or other user may
identify when an interruption was caused by the ICB 102 itself and
when one was manually produced and/or records of general power
usage including, inter alia, wave forms, etc. Further, in another
embodiment, the ICB 102 would be adapted to provide a real-time
download for service technicians regarding the generated records
demonstrating the interruptions to the circuit as discussed above
and/or data regarding power, power factor, frequency, rates, and
tiered rates, etc. Accordingly, the ICB 102 would comprise a
storage medium and means to transmit the accumulated data to a
user; this function will be discussed below with regard to the user
interface.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GCFI) and Arc Fault Interrupter
(AFI)--
[0186] In yet another embodiment, in order to comply with certain
building codes, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) or an Arc
Fault Interrupter (AFI) may optionally be included in the ICB 102.
As these functions are well known in the art, they will not be
discussed in further detail herein. However, data relating to their
use (e.g., time tripped, etc.) may be stored by the ICB and
forwarded for subsequent analysis.
User Interface--
[0187] In another embodiment (not shown), the ICB 102 further
comprises a user interface 106. The user interface 106 may be
located remote from the ICB 102 in one embodiment, and may comprise
a computer application adapted to run on a computer device having a
processor with associated storage, a display, and user input. The
computer application will be discussed in greater detail below. The
computer device would also advantageously comprise a means for
retrieving data directly or indirectly from the ICB 102. These
means may include for example Bluetooth, Ethernet, WiFi, LAN, etc.
and may include any personal computer apparatus including, inter
alia, laptop computers, cellular/digital telephones, PDA, etc.
[0188] In one exemplary embodiment, the ICB 102 of the present
invention is adapted to operate with a home automation device such
as that described in co-owned, co-pending U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/986,234 filed Nov. 9, 2004 and entitled "Improved
automation apparatus and methods" which is herein incorporated by
reference in its entirety. The home automation device of this
invention seeks to improve and simplify the premises (e.g. home)
automation process through a variety of advantageous design
features, including, inter alia, integrating most of the functions
within a compact, unitary multi-function controller (e.g., server).
The foregoing approach also provides a high level of system
scalability so that each particular installation can be readily
configured to meet the customer's needs at the lowest cost and with
the least complexity, while also simultaneously permitting
expansion to cover literally every type of function relating to the
structure including, e.g., HVAC/environmental control, security,
entertainment, energy conservation and management, and safety. In
yet another embodiment, the ICB 102 of the present invention is
adapted to operate with a home automation device such as that
described in co-owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/218,899 filed Sep. 2, 2005 and entitled "Universal control
apparatus and methods". Also incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety, the foregoing describes a home automation system
which allows for flexible and efficient control of one or more
functions and/or aesthetics within the premises (or in associated
structures or areas) at a low cost. The home automation system
satisfies these needs by providing, inter alia, a "universal"
control apparatus architecture which allows for both a great degree
of configurability (whether by the end-user, the installer, or the
manufacturer) as well as substantial uniformity between the
components used for the various configurations.
[0189] Accordingly, in one such embodiment, the ICB 102 of the
present invention would be adapted to send information to and
receive commands from a home automation device such as those
described above; and, in yet another embodiment, would be adapted
to provide the automation device the ability to control the ICB 102
devices 104 such as a thermostat, etc. so as to allow a user to set
a temperature, etc. from one remote device. As discussed above,
communication between the ICB 102 and user interface, including a
home automation device, may be accomplished via wired or wireless
connections including, inter alia, WiFi or Bluetooth capabilities
on the ICB 102 itself.
[0190] Alternatively, the user interface 106 may comprise a
web-based application. The web-based application would be stored
and run from a remote server. According to this embodiment, the
application would be accessible to a user via a secure Internet
connection. Such security may be imparted by a log-in and password
or by registering accessing devices with a registration server in
communication with the application server. The web-based
application may also "lock out" a user if an incorrect password,
etc. is supplied more than a certain number of times, in order to
reduce tampering with the system by unauthorized users. Certain
functions may also be disabled to an unauthorized user via a
manufacturer seal or other device.
[0191] In yet another embodiment, the user interface 106 is located
directly on the ICB 102. Accordingly, the ICB 102 would be adapted
to comprise at least a microprocessor, storage, a display element
and a user input element. The microprocessor of this embodiment
would be adapted to run various computer applications, which will
be discussed in greater detail below.
Software Architecture--
[0192] As discussed above, the relay-activated ICB 102a and the
actuator-activated ICB 102b of the present invention are adapted to
perform various functions including, inter alia, monitoring
devices, gathering information and examining historical data about
the monitored devices, indicating faults with the monitored devices
(e.g., records wave forms voltage, current, power, etc. in buffer
for analysis after a breaker is tripped), having a timer or time
stamp mechanism, determining brown-out conditions, generating
records and technical support real-time downloads, and
incorporating GFCI and AFI functions. Accordingly, the user
interface associated with the present invention (whether remote to
the ICB, such as running on a personal computer device including a
cellular/digital phone, laptop, PDA, etc., directly on the ICB, or
a web-based application) will be adapted to include appropriate
mechanisms by which a user may receive, access, and evaluate data,
receive alerts or alarms or timer indications, and receive
information regarding implemented policies during brown-outs, etc.
The software would also be adapted to permit a user to compare
power-usage data to data stored within the application.
[0193] As addressed above, in one embodiment, the software
applications are run on a web-based server. In another embodiment,
the aforementioned software applications are run on a
microprocessor or microcontroller physically located on the ICB
102. According to this embodiment, the software applications must
be stored on computer readable media within the ICB 102, such as
RAM or other internal storage or memory apparatus.
[0194] Alternatively, the software applications may be run on a
user's personal computer, laptop, or other computer device.
According to this embodiment, the applications would likely be
installed onto the computer devices from removable media and would
be stored to the internal memory of the device. Communication with
the ICB 102 would still be affected via Bluetooth, or other well
known mechanism for secure transmission of data, as discussed
above.
Network Configurations--
[0195] As discussed above, one salient aspect of the present
invention is the ability of the ICB 102 to communicate with (i.e.
send and receive data to and from) a user interface and/or other
devices.
[0196] In one embodiment a web-based interface is utilized having a
server which is implemented using various software applications
that are stored in the mass storage device and RAM, and executable
to run on processor in communication with the web-based server.
These software applications may include, inter alia, a network
address translation (NAT) proxy application providing devices
connected to the LAN (and having addresses that are not able to be
routed on the Internet) with the ability to communicate on the
Internet. A web server application including a user interface (UI)
for local and remote access and control of a plurality of
communications operations is also provided. Other applications
running on the server may include network management and control
systems (NMCS); an Internet access application providing one or
more devices on the LAN with simultaneous access to the Internet
through a shared Internet service provider (ISP); an e-mail
management application (e.g., unified messaging or the like)
providing centralized collection and management of e-mail from
multiple e-mail servers; a facsimile receipt, storage and
forwarding application providing the premises with centralized
reception, storage and forwarding of facsimile data; and a premises
automation application providing local and remote access and
control of home or premise equipment including appliances, HVAC
equipment, lighting, home electronics, etc. as previously described
herein.
[0197] As described above, the present invention provides methods
and apparatus that allow for remote control of and remote receipt
of data from an intelligent circuit breaker using a connection to a
local area network, WLAN, PAN, or to the Internet. One advantage of
the present invention is that the user interface can be
comprehensive in nature, so as to provide a user with the ability
to collect and analyze historical power usage information, as well
as information regarding the status and operation of the devices
104 attached to the system 100.
Methodology--
[0198] As discussed previously, the load control requirements will
likely be placed on existing homes, offices, etc., thus, an
economic approach to load shedding and power management is
discussed. According to this approach, various components of ICB
102 would be installed into existing circuit breakers.
[0199] A first exemplary method 700 for changing an existing
circuit breaker to an intelligent circuit breaker, ICB 102 is given
by FIG. 7a. Per step 702, the technician or user first switches off
the particular breaker to be converted. Then, at step 704, the
black wire is loosened and pulled free from the breaker.
Subsequently, at step 706, the breaker is removed and replaced (at
step 708) with the intelligent breaker. Then, step 710, the black
wire is reinstalled into the intelligent breaker line terminal.
Finally, at step 712, the white wire is installed into the neutral
bar and at step 714, the ICB 102 is switched on.
[0200] An alternative exemplary method 720 for adapting an existing
circuit breaker into an ICB 102 is given by FIG. 7b. It is
appreciated that utilization of this method may necessitate the
presence of an inspector or other trained professionals. Per step
722, the technician first switches off the breaker to be converted.
Then, at step 724, the covering is removed. At step 726, a latching
actuator 308 is disposed atop the existing circuit breaker contact
arm 310. The actuator 308 is disposed in such a manner so as to be
able to break the contact between the existing contact arm and the
line contact 304. The actuator 308 may be advantageously held in
place via one or more ears 318 and an actuator pivot 320 held into
place through an access aperture 312. At step 728, the PCB assembly
206 (206a, 206b, or 206c) is disposed in communication with the
actuator 308. Subsequently, at step 730, the cover is replaced on
the circuit breaker. Then, at step 732, the breaker is turned back
on.
[0201] As is evident from the above, the ICB 102 of the present
invention comprises modular internal components which may be
selectively replaced. This feature permits the invention to be
highly cost effective.
Example Applications--
[0202] Exemplary applications of the foregoing apparatus and
methods are now described to further illustrate the various aspects
of the invention.
[0203] 1) The foregoing intelligent circuit breaker is added to a
breaker panel to measure high-load devices, or provide sub-metering
for tiered billing (e.g., medical/not-profit/commercial/luxury), or
simply partitioning multi-dwelling unit power billing. Power
Utilities' new, smart (communicating) power meters, which utilizes
advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) and advanced meter reading
(AMR) technology to transmit and receive power usage data and
billing/rate data to their billing information system, will
communicate directly to the intelligent circuit breaker (ICB) via
an embedded transceiver (e.g., powerline or RF modem) in the smart
meter. The Utility is then able monitor power and control the ICB
functions.
[0204] 2) Alternatively, a powerline or RF modem connection (e.g.,
computer interface module) to a computer and or a gateway (Internet
or LAN/WAN) would allow a user or Utility to access the secure
network and the ICB. The ICB can be used to calculate functions for
power measurements and billing rates, schedule load control for one
or more devices, as well as perform diagnostics for power quality
monitoring. A secondary application is to install and use other
smart networked devices in the home or building (e.g., thermostats,
occupancy/motion sensors, lighting/appliance devices, security and
safety systems) to create a no host peer-to-peer (P2P) network in
automating a home for energy management, load scheduling,
convenience and safety. The system does not require a host computer
and can be added to a home or building for user convenience and
control, whether local or remote.
[0205] It will be recognized that while certain aspects of the
invention are described in terms of a specific sequence of steps of
a method, these descriptions are only illustrative of the broader
methods of the invention, and may be modified as required by the
particular application. Certain steps may be rendered unnecessary
or optional under certain circumstances. Additionally, certain
steps or functionality may be added to the disclosed embodiments,
or the order of performance of two or more steps permuted. All such
variations are considered to be encompassed within the invention
disclosed and claimed herein.
[0206] While the above detailed description has shown, described,
and pointed out novel features of the invention as applied to
various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions,
substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or
process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without
departing from the invention. The foregoing description is of the
best mode presently contemplated of carrying out the invention.
This description is in no way meant to be limiting, but rather
should be taken as illustrative of the general principles of the
invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with
reference to the claims.
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