Abstract: A programmable uninterruptible power supply for coupling battery powered systems associated with a mobile site, such as a vehicle, to the primary electrical system of the mobile site operates to selectively couple the battery powered systems to the electrical system of the mobile site and to a secondary, or back-up battery separate from the primary battery associated with the electrical system of the mobile site. Various system control functions are performed, including reverse battery protection, over voltage and under voltage protection, battery drain protection, battery charging detection, reverse current detection and uninterruptible power switching. For detected adverse operating conditions, the load is disconnected from the electrical system of the mobile site and the back-up battery is used to operate the battery powered systems which are to be protected from such adverse operating conditions.

Abstract: The operation of a generator and the loads placed on the generator are controlled in response to measuring the loads and generator operating parameters and controllably altering the operating conditions in response to comparison of the measurements to respective set points.

Abstract: A system and method for distributing a supply to plurality of machinery or appliances. The supply may be any of oil, gas, electrical power, water, heated and cooled air, etc. the plurality of appliances can include any of gas and oil powered devices, electrical devices, rooms having HVAC ductwork, etc. The distribution of the operating supply is provided by prioritizing the appliances with a predetermined priority. The appliances are connected in a series connection in order of priority. When any appliance is determined to be in an “ON” state of operation subsequently connected appliances are prevented from operating. Alternatively, when more than one appliance is able to operate simultaneously using the operating supply, the appliances may be divided into a plurality of groups. The plurality of groups include a group for each possible combination of appliances and each group is prioritized.

Abstract: A device for providing electrical power that includes one or more single pin outlets and one or more switches, each of the switches coupled to a respective one of the one or more single pin outlets. The at least one switch is actuatable by insertion of a pin in the single pin outlet. The device also includes a current device coupled to the one or more switches and configured to prevent the flow of electrical current to the single pin outlets unless all of the switches are actuated. Thus, the device is configured to prevent the flow of electrical power to all of the single pin outlets unless all of the single pin outlets have a pin properly inserted therein.

Abstract: An electric power plant general control system for controlling power generating units. A generating unit (GU2) can operate part of the auxiliaries based on an automation command outputted from a unit computer (UC2) having a sequence function portion. The generating unit operates the remaining part of the auxiliaries based on an operation command outputted from an operation board (OB2) without a sequence function portion, the operation board disposed separately from the unit computer. A general automation computer (GAC) is connected with an upper system of the unit computer, and an operator command is inputted from an interactive apparatus (I/F4). The general control system is provided with a mock-up portion (Moc) equivalent to the sequence function portion disposed on the side of the auxiliaries controlled by the automation command outputted from the unit computer. The operation signal from the general automation computer is outputted to the unit computer and the operation board.

Abstract: In a computerized device requiring a relatively large amount of power during operation (e.g., between approximately 10 kW to 15 kW) at a relatively large current (e.g., between approximately 200 and 300 amperes), an electrical conductor or power distribution assembly having a substantially flat, planar geometry electrically couples a power supply, via bus bars, to a midplane of the computerized device. The substantially flat planar geometry of the power distribution assembly minimizes conduction and radiation of electromagnetic interference (EMI) by the electrical conductor during operation of the computerized device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for actuating a control element, for example, an air flap, for a heating or air-conditioning system (34) in a motor vehicle, having an actuating drive (32), an electrical circuit (1) which controls the actuating drive (32), and a control section (36) for inputting control commands. The actuating drive (32), the circuit (1) and the control section (36) are connected to one another via at least one electrical cable (3). In order to provide an improved apparatus for actuating a control element, particularly with regard to reducing the production costs, the circuit (1) is arranged outside the actuating drive (32) and outside the control section (36) and, in particular, is preferably integrated in the databus (3). This allows identical actuating drives to be used cost-effectively for the different control elements.

Abstract: Power supplies, supplied with an input voltage to produce output voltages, are controlled in a desired sequence, and their output voltages are monitored, by respective state machines of two or more control units which are coupled in cascade by a bidirectional signal path on which commands and acknowledgements are coupled serially in frames. Within each control unit, each state machine communicates with all of the other state machines, so that the power supplies controlled by a single control unit can include divergent and convergent as well as linear sequence paths. The sequence is linear between adjacent control units, with logical combinations of received and locally-produced commands and acknowledgements. An input state machine in the first control unit in the cascade monitors the input voltage to initiate a power-up sequence.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of managing energy consumed by a group of energy consuming devices (31 to 39) and energy consuming devices (31 to 36) for executing this method. Energy consuming devices (31 to 36) of the group of energy consuming devices exchange messages according to an energy management control protocol via a communication media (4). The energy management control protocol comprises an energy booking message type for announcing future energy consumption, an energy reduction indication message type for announcing possible reduction of energy consumption and a granting message type for granting an energy booking message and/or an energy reduction indication. The energy consuming devices (31 to 36) negotiate their energy consumption by means of the messages exchanged according to the energy management control protocol and control their energy consumption according to the result of this negotiation.

Abstract: A device having an energy-generating unit and a distributor unit for distributing electrical energy to electrical loads. The electrical loads are connected to connector part halves of the distributor unit. Connector part halves, arranged at the load ends of the lines, are connected to connector part halves of the loads. The connector part halves which are connected to the lines have line bridges which serve to close or open a line section of a diagnostic circuit. A switching means is actuated by means of a control unit and is arranged between the energy-generating unit and the distributor unit. A signal generator and an evaluation unit are assigned to the diagnostic circuit. The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the diagnostic circuit.

Abstract: A plurality of distributed power generation systems are connected via the Internet to a managing apparatus in a managing company. A power company communicates with the managing apparatus via another line. At peak times of power consumption in the midsummer and so forth, the power company requests the managing company to supply the power. The managing company controls to remotely set generation capacity of the distributed generation systems at maximum so as to reverse surplus power therefrom to a power system. A normal power rate is discounted for a user of the distributed generation system for his/her cooperation with the power company. The managing company charges the power company based on the surplus electric energy supplied to the power company.

Abstract: A power ring device that includes: a ring conductor; a plurality of controllers, each controller being connected to the ring conductor and includes a first control unit; a plurality of paired pick ups, wherein each pair connects either an electrical consumer device or an electrical power supply to the ring conductor and to one of the plurality of controllers, wherein a first pair of pick ups of a first controller is connected to a first power supply; and a plurality of current sensor signal lines connecting each control unit to form a data connection; wherein each controller has a right and left side, a right sided and left sided switch elements; and a right sided and left sided current sensors connected so that a first current value measured by the left sided current sensor of the first controller is transmitted as data to the first control unit of a second controller.

Abstract: Systems that monitor and control energy distribution manage energy distribution or use for Energy Service Providers and end-users. A system includes a publicly or privately accessible distributed network, a network access device, and a management device. The network access device communicates with the management device through the distributed network to control loads at a remote location. The method of monitoring and controlling energy distribution receives data at an on-line Site, processes an application program that evaluates load and market supply data, and initiates power curtailment requests or power curtailment events.

Abstract: A POE (power over Ethernet)-prioritized active splitter is disclosed for a prioritized network having different priorities such as a network security system that uses an intelligent POE power supply with a prioritized back-up response, allowing a lower cost UPS (uninterruptible power supply) system to be used, and also providing a longer back-up time period by the UPS system for more critical components of the security system. A simple embodiment operates with only two priority levels, a high priority level for more critical components of the, such as the cable modem, the system router, fire alarm devices, local warning devices and the alarm communicator, while less critical components are supplied with electrical power at the low priority level. In the event of a power outage or disconnection, the critical high priority components remain connected to the Ethernet network to be supplied with electrical power by the UPS system and also to communicate over the twisted wire pairs of the Ethernet network.

Abstract: A water heater control system is disclosed that can be programmed by a user to go on and off at predetermined times and maintain temperatures below normal usage temperatures. The water heater control system may also program itself based on usage of the hot water by users. The control system may also be remotely controlled, using a computer, wireless communication, or other communication device. The water heater control system may be included with a new water heater or used to replace existing control systems.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling the output power to DC electric heater elements to reduce the input current ripple and to fine-tune the output power to meet the fine-tuning percentage requirement. In one embodiment, a method is performed for controlling output power to heater elements in an electric heater system. The process includes receiving a power request by the heater system, providing output power controls for each heater element, and determining a particular output power control based on output power controls provided for each heater element and the power requested. Further, the heater system selectively controls the output power to one or more of the heater elements to meet the power request.

Abstract: A personal computer protection device for disconnecting a computer system from a communications channel during power down periods. The personal computer protection device includes a power sensor for sensing power drawn by the computer system, an input port for connecting to a communications channel, an output for connecting the input port to a communications channel input of the computer system and a relay connected between the input port and output port. The relay selectively disconnects the input port and output port when the sensor senses the power drawn is below a threshold value thereby indicating the computer system is in a powered down or sleep state.

Abstract: An electrical apparatus including electrical components, wherein at least one of the electric components is a monitoring device including electromagnetic radiation receiving means connected to at least one sensor, the electromagnetic radiation receiving means for receiving electromagnetic radiation from electromagnetic emitting means, wherein the electromagnetic radiation receiving means are located on a side of the electrical apparatus and are for being directed towards a support including means for emitting an electromagnetic radiation, and the electromagnetic radiation receiving means is for supplying electrical power upon receipt of electromagnetic radiation from such means for emitting electromagnetic radiation located on such support.

Abstract: A control arrangement and method is provided for detecting and responding to disturbances in electrical power systems. In a preferred arrangement, an integration is initiated that is based on a comparison of actual voltage of a source and a reference voltage. When the integration exceeds a predetermined value, the source is considered unreliable. Also in a preferred arrangement, a determination is made as to whether or not the disturbance is a downstream fault condition. For example, this is useful for applications where a transfer is made from a first source to a second source when predetermined disturbances are detected. In this manner, the transfer of the load to a second source is avoided which would continue the supply of the downstream fault. Additionally, the arrangement distinguishes between various degrees of disturbances to permit appropriate response based on the severity and type of disturbance. For example, a first immediate response, i.e.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting incorrect connector insertion. The apparatus includes a first member including a first connector; a second member including a second connector; a test signal output processing unit that outputs a first test signal to the first member and the second member; a first determination signal outputting portion that outputs a first determination signal in accordance with outputting the first test signal to the first member; and a second determination signal outputting portion that outputs a second determination signal in accordance with outputting the first test signal to the second member. The apparatus further includes a connector-connected state determination processing unit that determines the connected state of the first connector and the second connector based on the first determination signal and the second determination signal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method particularly applicable to an automotive vehicle seat, through which the control of heating of heating elements is carried out by an electronic circuit, based on the temperature monitored in the heating elements and using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). The signals applied to the heating elements are progressively adapted to the condition of the different heating elements at all times and throughout their useful life, by variation of the working cycle of the signal applied to the heating elements in the form of a fixed frequency pulse train, and applying said signal after an initial transient state, during which state a maximum voltage has been applied to the heating elements and has been maintained until reaching a desired percentage of an assigned temperature by each of said heating elements.

Abstract: A electrical power control mechanism ensures start-up of all telecommunication devices (repeaters and a remote terminal) along a span-powered wireline. Input voltage start-up thresholds of power control circuits at the devices are higher than the steady-state voltage across the repeater closest to the span supply, when the span voltage is at a minimum DC wireline voltage that sustains operation of all devices. The maximum input voltage start-up threshold of a device is less than the maximum voltage that could be applied during start-up, and the remote terminal has an input voltage start-up threshold value higher than that of any repeater. The maximum standby current of each device is specified, and input power is limited to its steady state maximum during start-up.

Abstract: A power management installation in an aircraft includes a power distribution network and at least two subscribers. Each subscriber has loads consuming electric power and local control means. The power management installation allocates, to each subscriber, a maximum total power for all the loads and evaluates, for each subscriber, the total electric power consumed. The conditions for controlling the loads of each subscriber are modified according to the controlled loads of the subscriber, the total electric power consumed by the subscriber and the maximum total power allocated to the subscriber.

Abstract: A control apparatus for master/slave outlets having a current sensor, a driver, a large current switch component and a direct-bucking type power supply such that the working power source required by the master/slave equipment can be supplied stably. Further, the control apparatus for master/slave outlets provides a most simplified circuit to perform a function that the slave outlet supplies a power at the time the master outlet is supplied the power.

Abstract: A combined current and voltage sensor includes: a combined sensor shell; a current sensor located in the combined sensor shell, the current sensor disposed proximate to said first load strap; and a first voltage sensor located in the combined sensor shell, the first voltage sensor disposed proximate to the first load strap. A circuit breaker includes: a first load strap in electrical communication with an electronic trip unit; a breaker in electrical communication with the electronic trip unit; a current sensor disposed at the first load strap; and a first voltage sensor disposed proximate the current sensor.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for controlling an electric cooking appliance, a boost condition is initiated by increasing the power level of one or more electric heating means (2) to a maximum power level from a previous lower power level. Elapsed time (38) during cooling of the appliance since an end of an immediately previous period at the maximum power level is monitored, as is difference in power levels between the maximum power level and the previous lower power level. Duration (34) of the boost condition is set according to one of the elapsed time (38) and the difference in power levels and a level (36) of temperature boost in the boost condition is correspondingly set according to one of the difference in power levels and the elapsed time respectively.

Abstract: A multiprocessor system (10) includes a plurality of processing modules, such as MPUs (12), DSPs (14), and coprocessors/DMA channels (16). Power management software (38) in conjunction with profiles (36) for the various processing modules and the tasks to executed are used to build scenarios which meet predetermined power objectives, such as providing maximum operation within package thermal constraints or using minimum energy. Actual activities associated with the tasks are monitored during operation to ensure compatibility with the objectives. The allocation of tasks may be changed dynamically to accommodate changes in environmental conditions and changes in the task list. As each task in a scenario is executed, a control word associated with the task can be used to enable/disable circuitry, or to set circuits to an optimum configuration.

Abstract: A large-scale, capacitor-based electrical energy storage and distribution system capable of effectuating load-leveling during periods of peak demand on a utility, and of effectuating a cost savings associated with the purchase of electrical energy. A capacitor or multitude of capacitors may be charged with electrical energy produced by the utility, such as during periods of low demand or low cost, and discharged during periods of high electrical energy consumption or high electrical energy cost. One or more capacitors may be located at a consumer's residence or business. Alternatively, a farm of capacitors may be provided at or near a utility, or at or near a location experiencing high demand. In another embodiment, one or more capacitors may be located in or on a vehicle, such as an automobile, a truck, or a train of a light rail system.

Abstract: An electrical power supply system for a vehicle is provided, which can eliminate proliferation of adverse effect on other control modules caused within one of a plurality of control modules. This is accomplished by provision of the power supply system comprising: battery 10 for supplying power; power line PL in a loop lay-out; a plurality of control modules BCM 100, VCM 110, FIM 120, DDM 130, RIM 140, CCM 150 and PDM 160 for a plurality of accessory systems, which are connected via said power line PL in loop lay-out, wherein a power control module (PCM) 20 for controlling the engine is connected to the power supply source via another power line 22 different from the power line PL.

Abstract: An electric power monitoring system includes a source monitor for measuring momentary power output of an electric source supplying electric power to a power distribution system having at least one electric load. The momentary power output is compared with a reference load capability for the electric source to determine the ability of the electric source to support additional load, and load capability data is transmitted based on the load capability. At least one load control receives the transmitted load capability data and controls the supply of power to the at least one corresponding electric load based on the load capability data.

Abstract: A method of monitoring and controlling a power distribution system is provided. The power distribution system includes a plurality of circuit breakers, a plurality of node electronic units, and wherein each associated circuit breaker is electrically coupled with each respective node electronic unit. The system also includes at least one digital network, and at least one central control processing unit (CCPU) wherein each CCPU includes a first power system global information set, and each CCPU is communicatively coupled to the plurality of node electronic units. The method includes transmitting at least one digital message from each node electronic unit to each CCPU over a respective network, determining an operational state of the power distribution system from the digital message, and transmitting at least one multicast message from each CCPU to each node electronic unit such that the circuit breakers are operable from each CCPU.

Abstract: A multiprocessor system (10) includes a plurality of processing modules, such as MPUs (12), DSPs (14), and coprocessors/DMA channels (16). Power management software (38) in conjunction with profiles (36) for the various processing modules and the tasks to executed are used to build scenarios which meet predetermined power objectives, such as providing maximum operation within package thermal constraints or using minimum energy. Actual activities associated with the tasks are monitored during operation to ensure compatibility with the objectives. The allocation of tasks may be changed dynamically to accommodate changes in environmental conditions and changes in the task list. As each task in a scenario is executed, a control word associated with the task can be used to enable/disable circuitry, or to set circuits to an optimum configuration.

Abstract: An interruptible power supply module, located at a customer's premise, functions to reduce the demand on a power utility company. As a power utility senses a critical power supply demand situation, it sends an “interrupt power” control signal through an alternative communications network (a telecommunications network, for example), to each subscribing customer. Upon receipt of the “interrupt” control signal, a switch is activated in the customer's interruptible power supply module to remove a pre-defined “interruptible” load for a predetermined period of time (perhaps not to exceed 15 minutes in any hour). The module may also be used to “gracefully” add interruptible loads back onto the system after a complete power outage.

Abstract: A substantially underwater system comprises a plurality of retrievable substantially autonomous subsea modules (12, 13, 17, 18) and switchgear (15, 16, 21a . . . h). A host facility (6) and the modules are connected in series so as to form a circuit, the host facility providing power to all of the modules. Operation of the switchgear electrically isolates a module or a plurality of serially adjacent modules so that the module or modules can be removed without cutting off the power supply to any of the remaining modules of the system. Module based parts of the switchgear (21a . . . h) only or a combination of module based parts (21a . . . h) and host facility based parts (15, 16) of the switchgear are actuated depending on which module or modules are isolated and removed.

Abstract: A controlling device having programming which ensures an appliance will be placed into a desired power state. The controlling device transmits a query message to a power monitor associated with the appliance to obtain the current power state of the appliance. If the current power state corresponds to the desired power state, the controlling device inhibits the transmission of a command to the appliance to effect a change in the current power state of the appliance.

Abstract: An electrical assembly includes a plurality of electrical modules. Each of the plurality of electrical modules, such as power receptacles of a wall panel system, are sequentially electrically connected to at least one other of the plurality of electrical modules. Each of the plurality of electrical modules include a prior module detection circuit that determines a number of modules being connected and is formed to limit the activation of more than a certain number of such modules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wireless home automation system having a controller for controlling a broad variety of functions via two ways communication with a plurality of devices. The controllers and devices of the system comprises means for generating a signal comprising a destination identifier, instructions related to the input/output of the destination or source device, and a repeater identifier. The devices according to the invention are adapted to act as input/output devices and signal repeating devices. The processors of each device comprises means for, upon reception of a signal, processing said information if the destination identifier corresponds to the device identifier of the device, and means for, upon reception of a signal, transmitting a second signal holding at least said destination identifier and said instruction if the repeater identifier corresponds to the device identifier of the device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control circuit for a switching power supply device that is adapted to drive two or more loads and can quickly eliminate a voltage difference occurring between the two or more loads. The control circuit for a switching power supply device has an output terminal that is to be connected to a power supply terminal of a first load by a first wiring and a power supply terminal of a second load by a second wiring. The control circuit comprises a first control loop for stabilizing an output voltage appearing at the output terminal and a second control loop for eliminating a difference between a first voltage appearing at the first wiring in a vicinity of the power supply terminal of the first load and a second voltage appearing at the second wiring in a vicinity of the power supply terminal of the second load.

Abstract: A system for use in programming and diagnostics of electronic devices (32) in a vehicle includes a connector jack (36) having a plurality of electrical connection sites configured for electrical connection to the electronic devices (32) in the vehicle. A shorting plug (38) configured to removably engage the connector jack (36) interconnects the plurality of electrical connection sites to form a data communication bus. An electronics module (50) configured to removably engage the connector jack (36) in place of the shorting plug includes a plurality of switching units (56) that, when set in a closed state, electrically interconnect each of the electronic devices (32) to form the data communication bus. Each switching unit (56a, . . . ,56g) in the electronics module (50) is selectively and independently operable to electrically disconnect an electronic device (32) from the data communication bus, especially for programming and diagnostics of the electronic devices (32) in the vehicle.

Abstract: A progammable power supply for providing a regulated DC output power is disclosed. The power supply provides the output power to any one of a plurality of electronic devices adapted for receiving the output power at an operational voltage or an operational current. The power supply receives a programming signal to maintain the output power at the operational voltage or operational current associated with a particular selected electronic device. Accordingly, by varying the programming signal, the power supply can be programmed to provide output power to any one of several electronic devices having differing input power requirements.

Abstract: An electronic control, with a floating ac power supply, that compares the digital signals produced by connections between ac circuit nodes and digital nodes to determine whether path(s) in ac circuits containing the ac nodes are intact or open. The connections are made through passive components which limit the current between nodes to levels the digital devices can safely handle. An open path indicates to the control that a switching device is open, a connection has failed, or a that a load component has failed or is missing. An intact path indicates a closed switch or a present and presumably functional load component. Proper connections enable the control to detect the state of multiple paths while still being able to detect zero crossings. The method can determine the state of ac paths even if hot and neutral connections are inadvertently reversed.

Abstract: A terminal block in the form of a terminal strip with several connecting sites has first connecting sites for 220/230 volts and second connecting sites for low DC voltage (6 to 15 volts), and the connecting sites can be supplied with voltage individually or in groups, independently of one another. The terminal block is controlled using an integrated control panel and/or using a processor 36 joined to switches (11, 15), the processor being controlled via a USB terminal 20 through cable connection to a computer. The control and display panels (4, 6) may be removed when the computer and processor are used for switch control.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for single-inductor multiple-output switching converter design. With the proposed freewheel switching control, this converter operates in a pseudo-continuous conduction mode (PCCM) and is capable of handling large load currents with a much smaller current ripple and peak inductor current, while retaining low cross regulation. It can also work in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) for high efficiency at light loads. This design can be applied to have single or multiple outputs and for different types of DC-DC conversions.

Abstract: A peripheral power hub (PPH) (44) providing power to a plurality of outputs (46). The PPH provides multiple predetermined DC voltages which may be converted by an associated voltage converter circuit (28) to provide the power requirements to an associated mobile device (72). Alternatively, the voltage converter circuits (28) may be internal to the PPH. A programmable Ac/Dc converter (42) may provide a DC voltage to the PPH, which may be configured as an an accessory while powering another mobile device, such as a laptop computer (50). The voltage converter circuits (28) may be buck circuits or boost circuits depending on the application.

Abstract: A control server, or similar central processor, manages the distribution of data (including audio and video), voice, and control signals among a plurality of devices connected via a wired and/or wireless communications network. The devices include audio/visual devices (such as, televisions, monitors, PDAs, notepads, notebooks, MP3, portable stereo, etc.) as well as household appliances (such as, lighting, ovens, alarm clocks, etc.). The control server supports video/audio serving, telephony, messaging, file sharing, internetworking, and security. A portable controller allows a user to access and control the network devices from any location within a controlled residential and/or non-residential environment, including its surrounding areas. The controllers are enhanced to support location-awareness and user-awareness functionality.

Abstract: A controlling apparatus capable of synchronized power supply control over a plurality of electronic devices which are connected to the controlling apparatus via a bus pursuant to a predetermined communication format and which are fabricated by a plurality of venders including those different from the vender of the controlling apparatus. If any one of the electronic devices is selected regardless of its vender as an input by the controlling apparatus and is judged to have a link only with the controlling apparatus, the electronic device in question is switched on or off synchronously by the controlling apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a system and method for automatically interrupting a flow of power from an external electrical energy source to at least one device upon the extinguishing of power to another device. The system includes a power strip, a voltage sensing device (e.g., a 5 Volt power tap), and a switch. The power strip has at least one switched outlet adapted to receive an electrical power cord plug from at least one secondary or peripheral device. The voltage sensing device selectively detects an operating voltage of a primary device, wherein the operating voltage is less than a voltage associated with power supplied by the energy source. The switch is coupled to the voltage sensing device and selectively supplies electrical energy from the energy source to the switched outlet(s) depending upon whether or not the voltage sensing device detects the operating voltage of the primary device.

Abstract: An electric power demand adjusting system restrains fluctuation in an incentive for adjusting the demand for electric power or fluctuation in an electric power demand adjustment amount caused by an incentive. The system includes a central apparatus, lower units, and computing machine systems of consumers, which are connected through a communication network. The computing machine system of the central apparatus has a device for predicting a demand, a device for determining the electric power demand adjustment amounts to be sent to the lower units on the basis of the predicted demand and information that includes historical data regarding the electric power demand adjustments of the lower units, and a device for transmitting the determined electric power demand adjustment amounts to the lower units. The arrangement restrains the fluctuation in incentives required for adjusting the demand for electric power.

Abstract: A submarine branching unit is disclosed that includes a termination for each of at least three line cables and a termination to sea ground. A relay is positioned between each pair of cable terminations. When current flows between two of the cables, the intermediary relay will become energized and cause a contact to connect the third cable to the sea-ground termination. To avoid dangerous surges in current to sea ground when a relay trips, a current limiter is placed in series with the sea ground termination.

Abstract: A method for activating n electrical loads in a circuit assemblage, the activation being accomplished with pulse width modulated signals. Both an inductance L influencing electromagnetic compatibility and a capacitance C influencing the same, with which a current IL flowing in a supply lead can be buffered, are provided. The n pulse width modulated signals are generated in time-offset fashion so that the effective value of a current IL flowing in a supply lead to the N electrical loads is reduced.

Abstract: Corrosion of metals such as silver and copper by sulfur and chlorine containing entities are substantially prevented by surrounding these materials with a suitable polymeric structure. The structure should be a polymer containing a material such as copper or aluminum that reacts readily with corrosive gases. In one advantageous embodiment a polymer bag containing approximately 35 weight percent of dispersed, powdered copper is employed to enclose a metal containing structure such as a printed circuit board. Use of this expedient substantially reduces corrosion of the printed circuit board.