Abstract: According to some embodiments, information about a power delivery stage is determined for a plurality of operating condition values. The determined information may then be stored in a dynamic look-up table of an adaptive tracking controller engine according to some embodiments. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to an input/output channel control block that comprises a number of successive input/output modules. The first is a control master module and the subsequent ones are expansion slave modules. Each expansion slave module comprises a processing logic unit as well as respective first signal port and a respective equal number of second signal ports and an equal number of third signal ports which are arranged at identical positions of each expansion slave module. The first signal port is connected to the processing logic unit, to which at least one fourth signal port for connecting an input/output bus terminal subscriber belongs, and a respective second signal port is connected to a third signal port. The control master module likewise possesses a number of third signal ports and a control logic unit for data exchange with a data bus and for targeted driving of the signal ports.

Abstract: A programmable controller device has a main body with a CPU unit and I/O units connected by a bus line and a power unit for supplying power to the main body. The CPU unit has a memory with a user access area which is accessible by instruction of user program. The power unit generates status data related to itself such as its temperature. A data transmission path is provided between the CPU unit and the power unit for transmitting such status data to the user access area.

Abstract: An in vehicle device transfers connection information to a power management device, the connection information indicating whether the in-vehicle device can communicate with the power management device. The in-vehicle device either transfers condition information to the power management device, the condition information indicating that the in-vehicle device is ready for turning off, or sets the in-vehicle device to not communicate with the power management device when a predetermined condition is met, the predetermined condition indicative of an inability of the in-vehicle device to transfer information to the power management device. The power management device requests the connection information from the in-vehicle device and requests the condition information from the in-vehicle device.

Abstract: The control system (1) comprises at least one control panel (P1, Pn) comprising a plurality of operable control means (2) for controllable pieces of equipment (EC1, ECk) of the aircraft, each of which is controlled by first and second computers (3A1, 3Ak, 3B1, 3Bk), and a communication system (4) comprising a first and a second communication channel (5, 6) which are separate from each other and follow different paths (C1, C2), the first communication channel (5) connecting the control means (2) to the first computers (3A1, 3Ak) and the second communication channel (6) connecting the control means (2) to the second computers (3B1, 3Bk), each of said communication channels (5, 6) comprising two different digital communication buses (8, 9; 10, 11).

Abstract: A method according to one embodiment may include discovering, by software, at least one variable from at least one component populated on a shelf system. The method may also include performing, by the software, at least one shelf management function based on at least one variable. Of course, many alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible without departing from this embodiment.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to provide leakage power estimation are described. In one embodiment, one or more sensed temperature values (108) and one or more voltage values (110) are utilized to determine the leakage power of an integrated circuit (IC) component. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: An electric power distribution switchboard (1) in which one or more functional units are equipped with a switching device compartment (3) that integrates primary and secondary functions. Within the switching device compartment (3) are included, together with the switching device (37), the current and voltage sensors (36), the position sensors for interlocking, a human machine interface (HMI) and an Intelligent Electronic Device (IED) (4) and the related local configuration point (32) to configure the IED (4). The IED (4) realizes functional unit supervision, control, protection, communication and monitoring and acts as a concentrating point of functional unit information and decisions. The switchboard (1) of the invention further comprises power supply section, an I/O section and a communication system.

Abstract: An automatic sensing power system automatically has a voltage sampling system that samples a voltage from an electrical device, determines a power requirement for the electrical device, converts power to the required level, and outputs the power to the electrical device when the electrical device is connected to the automatic sensing power system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the control of distributed systems are presented, particularly virtual power plants. Control software therefore communicates through an interface with decentralized devices. Modules are provided to formulate strategies based on predicted demand for the system, for controlling individual system devices, for system evaluation, for accounting purposes and to provide a user interface.

Abstract: An electrical power distribution system includes a data bus, separate from the main aircraft data bus, internal to the aircraft electrical power distribution system and an electric power control unit (EPCU) in communication with the internal data bus. Primary and emergency power distribution subsystems include line replaceable modules (LRM) connected in the aircraft electrical power distribution system as electrical load control units (ELCU), each having a common supervisory control interface in communication with the internal data bus, while a secondary power distribution subsystem includes LRMs connected in the aircraft electrical power distribution system as solid state power control (SSPC) units, each having the common supervisory control interface in communication with the internal data bus. The common supervisory control interfaces all execute a common supervisory control logic for receiving commutation commands from the EPCU and providing status back to the EPCU.

Abstract: To obtain a safety control device capable of shortening a response time without using a high-speed CPU, command judging units judge whether an output command that has been input is an ON command or an OFF command; comparing units transmit a judgment result of their command judging units to each other and compare the judgment results of the command judging units with each other. Output units output an output signal to turn off a switch if the judgment result of the command judging units is the OFF command or if the comparison result of the comparing units indicates disagreement.

Abstract: A load management system controller employs a method for determining carbon credits earned as a result of a control event in which power is reduced to at least one service point serviced by a utility. The controller is located remotely from the service point(s) and determines power consumed over time by at least one device located at the service point(s) to produce power consumption data. The controller stores the power consumption data. At some later point in time, the controller initiates a control event and determines an amount of power reduced during the control event based on the stored power consumption data. The controller also determines a generation mix for power that would have been supplied to the service point(s) if the control event had not occurred. The controller then determines a quantity of carbon credits earned based at least on the amount of power reduced and the generation mix.

Abstract: A redundant fieldbus system provides power and communications in a parallel physical configuration between the host system and attached field devices irrespective of any single point failure in the network. In case of a fault, the redundant fieldbus system automatically eliminates the faulty section of the network, switches power and communications to the healthy portion of the network and terminates the network for signal integrity. A device coupler for the system may include a fault detector coupled to an auto-termination circuit that terminates a fieldbus cable when a fault is detected. The device coupler may include fault detection and isolation coupled to each set of spur terminals used to connect field devices to the device coupler. A field device for the system may include circuitry for deselecting a faulty cable while maintaining connection to a healthy cable.

Abstract: A power management architecture for an electrical power distribution system, or portion thereof, is disclosed. The architecture includes multiple intelligent electronic devices (“IED's”) distributed throughout the power distribution system to manage the flow and consumption of power from the system. The IED's are linked via a network to back-end servers. Security mechanisms are further provided which protect and otherwise ensure the authenticity of communications transmitted via the network in furtherance of the management of the distribution and consumption of electrical power by the architecture. In particular, public key cryptography is employed to identify components of the architecture and provide for secure communication of power management data among those components. Further, certificates and certificate authorities are utilized to further ensure integrity of the security mechanism.

Abstract: A server manages consumption of power supplied by at least one electric utility to multiple power consuming devices. Power flow to the consuming devices is enabled and disabled by controllable devices controlled by one or more client devices. The server includes a command processor, event manager, database, and client device manager. The command processor receives commands from the utility and issues event messages responsive thereto. The event manager maintains a power management status for each client device and issues event instructions responsive to event messages. The database stores information relating to power consumed by the consuming devices. The client device manager selects from the database, responsive to receipt of a power reduction event instruction, at least one client device to which to issue a message indicating a power reduction amount and/or identification of at least one controllable device to be instructed to disable power flow to associated consuming devices.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring and controlling a power distribution system is provided. The system includes a plurality of circuit breakers and a plurality of node electronic units. Each node electronic unit is mounted remotely from an associated circuit breaker that is electrically coupled with one of the node electronic units. The system also includes a first digital network, and a first central control unit. The first central control unit and the plurality of node electronic units are communicatively coupled to the first digital network. The method includes receiving digital signals from each node electronic unit at the central control unit, determining an operational state of the power distribution system from the digital signal, and transmitting digital signals to the plurality of node electronic units such that the circuit breakers are operable from the first central control unit.

Abstract: A system for optimizing usage of energy converting stages. It may have a stage driver, and stage driver adds as needed. The system may control the on-times of the stages according to a pattern that optimizes energy usage, processing and memory. The pattern may control the stages according to lead lag, rotating or runtime. The pattern may incorporate modulating. The system may be scalable and have a small memory footprint. The system may be implemented with function blocks of a function block engine. Network variables may be incorporated for input and output connections of the system.

Abstract: Embodiments of determining power to be supplied to the load using an expected voltage decrease that would result from supplying power to the load are disclosed.

Abstract: An automation component for an industrial automation arrangement, wherein the automation component is configured to control at least one system part, process or subprocess of the industrial automation arrangement. At least two different operating states are able to be alternately set for the at least one system part, process or subprocess, and the operational states which differ with respect to the respective power consumption of the system part, process or subprocess. The automation component is configured to receive requests for a changeover to one of the at least two different operational states, the automation component is configured to output acknowledgement messages in response to the requests, and the automation component is configured to output status messages relating to the activated operating state of the operational states.

Abstract: An input termination board for use with an industrial controller in a safety system is disclosed herein. The industrial controller may be populated with standard analog input modules according to the requirements of the application. The termination board may selectively receive a single analog input signal from a remote device and transmit the signal to corresponding channels on two analog input modules or, alternately, receive two analog input signals and transmit each signal to one of the two corresponding channels. In addition, a program executing on the controller of the safety module monitors and tests each of the analog input channels on the input modules, verifying proper operation of the modules. If the program detects a fault in either input module, the safety system may alternately shut down according to a fail-safe procedure or continue operating under a fault-tolerant mode of operation.

Abstract: A system for managing consumption of power supplied by an electric utility to power consuming devices includes at least one client device and a server. Each client device operates at least partially responsive to control messages received from the server and controls operation of one or more controllable devices. Each controllable device selectively enables and disables a flow of power to one or more of the consuming devices. The server stores information, on a per client device basis, relating to power consumed by the consuming devices. When a power reduction is requested by the utility, the server selects, based on client device information stored in the database, at least one client device to which to issue a power reduction message that indicates at least one of an amount of power to be reduced and an identification of a controllable device to be instructed to disable a flow of power.

Abstract: In particular embodiments, an energy gateway is described that is configured to receive power usage information from one or more power meters, transmit the power usage information to an energy management server, receive control signals from the energy management server, transmit the control signals to the one or more power switches and execute localized pre-programmed rules.

Abstract: Programmable power management using a nanotube structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes coupling a nanotube structure of an integrated circuit to a conductive surface when a command is processed, and enabling a group of transistors of the integrated circuit based on the coupling the nanotube structure to the conductive surface. A current may be applied to the nanotube structure to couple the nanotube structure to the conductive surface. The nanotube structure may be formed from a material chosen from one or more of a polymer, carbon, and a composite material. The group of transistors may be enabled during an activation sequence of the integrated circuit. In addition, one or more transistors of the group of transistors may be disengaged from the one or more power sources (e.g., to minimize leakage) when the nanotube structure is decoupled from the conductive surface.

Abstract: A system and method for recharging a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The system includes a controller that schedules the recharging of the vehicles on local electrical distribution networks. The system arranges the schedule to minimize the demand loading on the local distribution network to more efficiently operate power plants providing electrical power to the distribution networks. A system for collecting charges associated with the recharging of plug-in hybrid vehicles is also disclosed providing for prepaid utility accounts.

Abstract: A system is described for powering a wirelessly controlled electric system, such as a sound or security system, via a preexisting power source within an existing building structure. The wirelessly controlled electric system may receive power from the preexisting power source via an adaptor that may be inserted between the preexisting power source and at least one preexisting electric device. The wirelessly controlled electric system may also include a switch for directing the supply of power from the preexisting power source to the preexisting electric device. An electric system controller may direct the operation of the wirelessly controlled electric system. The electric system controller may also direct the switch between a conducting and a non-conducting state to supply power from the preexisting power source to the preexisting electric device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods, and apparatus for providing continuous power and utilities to a fixture in a manufacturing process. In one embodiment of the invention, a system with robot, such as a robotic arm, and a workstation can be deployed in a manufacturing process. A fixture associated with the manufacturing process can include a mount operable for receiving power from the robot or robot arm, and another mount operable for receiving power from the workstation. An associated control device, such as a programmable logic circuit, can selectively provide power via either mount depending on whether the fixture is mounted to the robot or robotic arm, or to the workstation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of recovering energy from the turntable motor (12) in an optical disc drive comprising a power supply and a circuitry (10) that is capable of selectively feeding a current from the power supply into the motor in a first state and from the motor into the power supply in a second state, the method comprising the steps of: decelerating the motor, during decelerating the motor, repeatedly calculating a ratio between a duration of the first state and a duration of the second state in dependence on an angular velocity of the motor, such that a current integrated over the whole decelerating process is fed from the motor into the power supply, and after calculating the ratio, selecting the duration of the first state and the duration of the second state in accordance with the calculated ratio. The present invention further relates to an optical device.

Abstract: System and method for providing a programmable power supply. The programmable power supply may include a programmable hardware element (PHE) that couples to a power supply (DC-DC converter) and which in turn couples to a linear regulator. The PHE may implement a PID control algorithm that receives a measurement of the output power and may use PID and/or non-linear control to ensure that the power supply and the linear regulator maintain similar power levels. The PHE may be configured based on a graphical program, thus enabling fast and efficient modifications to the programmable power supply.

Abstract: A method for recharging an electric storage battery in the charging system of an electric vehicle from an electric utility power grid includes determining the length of time required to recharge the battery, determining the desired time when the recharge is to be completed, transmitting to the electric power utility the length of time required to recharge the battery and the desired time, and recharging the battery from the utility grid during a period when projected load demand is lower than peak demand and ending no later than the desired time.

Abstract: The future of the utility industry will be defined by how its leaders can transform the grid from a “passive” network of cables, wires, poles, and other hardware to a self-aware and fully controllable grid system—an Intelligent Grid System (IGS). We will discuss a novel set of design guidelines for utilities (and other industries) to build their own Open Intelligent Grid System with the lowest possible risk and cost, while achieving the architectural criteria, technical features and functions required. We will discuss how to avoid the dead ends to which limited design and architecture can lead, and we will lay out the design solutions that will overcome the business and technical challenges posed by an array of technology products and business imperatives. Using IGIN (Intelligent Grid Interface Node), one can integrate or connect hybrid networks for different purposes, such as power electric industry, telecommunication, computer network, and Internet.

Abstract: A method for calculating availability in line power systems composed of power circuit modules determines power circuit parameters associated with the power circuits, accepting input from central databases The method calculates a required number of power circuits to complete the line power system and calculates the total power to be delivered over the power system, based on a power calculator. The method calculates individual power circuit availabilities based on die power circuit compositions and external variables. The method then calculates an over system availability based on the power circuit availabilities and other external variable inputs. The method may compare the calculated line power system availability with a target availability, revise the power circuit parameters, and recalculate the system availability to meet the target availability.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a usage of objects, the method includes: receiving, by a control unit, an indication that a user intends to use an object; wherein the utilization is dependent upon a reception of power from a power supply network; receiving, by the control unit, over a power line communication network and from a power controller associated with the object, a request to determine whether to enable a provision of power from the power supply network; determining, by the control unit, whether to allow a reception of power by the object; and sending to the power controller a power indication representative of the determination.

Abstract: Methods of automatically configuring a power monitoring system based upon the locations of the monitoring devices in a hierarchy representing the spatial interrelationships of the monitoring devices. The power monitoring system includes a host computer communicatively coupled to a plurality of monitoring devices arranged in a hierarchy in an electrical system.

Abstract: There is disclosed a protection system for a power distribution system. The system has a processor, a breaker; a network coupled to the processor, a first module coupled to the network and the breaker, a second module coupled to the network, and an algorithm. The algorithm monitors for a permission to trip request. If a plurality of permission to trip requests are received during a given time period, the algorithm issues a permission granted command to the first module and a hold command to the second module.

Abstract: A method for calculating availability in line power systems composed of power circuit modules determines power circuit parameters associated with the power circuits, accepting input from central databases. The method calculates a required number of power circuits to complete the line power system, and calculates the total power to be delivered over the power system, based on a power calculator. The method calculates individual power circuit availabilities based on the power circuit compositions and external variables. The method then calculates an overall system availability based on the power circuit availabilities and other external variable inputs. The method may compare the calculated line power system availability with a target availability, revise the power circuit parameters, and recalculate the system availability to meet the target availability.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system for controlling power supply voltage to an on-chip power distribution network. The system incorporates a programmable on-chip sensing network that can be selectively connected to the power distribution network at multiple locations. When the sensing network is selectively connected to the power distribution network at an optimal sensing point, a local voltage feedback signal from that optimal sensing point is generated and used to adjust the power supply voltage and, thus, to manage voltage distribution across the power distribution network. Additionally, the system incorporates a policy for managing the voltage distribution across the power distribution network, a means for profiling voltage drops across the power distribution network and a means for selecting the optimal sensing point based on the policy and the profile. Another embodiment of the system can further control power supply voltages to multiple power distribution networks on the same chip.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intermediate module capable of being implemented in conjunction with a safety isolation system, as well as a control system employing such an intermediate module and related operational method. In one embodiment, the intermediate module includes a first input terminal capable of receiving a first signal from an additional device that is at least one of the safety isolation system and another device, and a first output terminal capable of providing a second signal to a controlled device. The intermediate module additionally includes at least one safety relay circuit that receives at least one of the first signal and a first intermediate signal based upon the first signal, and that generates in response at least one of the second signal and a second intermediate signal upon which the second signal is based. The safety relay circuit includes at least one redundant circuit component.

Abstract: A system for supplying power in a communication network includes a network element and a plurality of subscriber devices in communication with the network element. Each of the plurality of subscriber devices is configured to communicate with the network element via a respective communication line, each of the plurality of subscriber devices includes a power supply for supplying power to the subscriber device. Each subscriber device of at least a subset of the plurality of subscriber devices includes a power transmission circuit in communication with the respective power supply. The power transmission circuit is configured to transmit a portion of the power supplied by the power supply of the subscriber device to the network element via the respective communication line. The portions of power supplied from the at least subset of the plurality of subscriber devices are aggregated to provide power for the network element.

Abstract: A control system and method for achieving economic operation of CHP systems. A plurality of factors, including power source prices and operational needs, are assessed using multiple strategies. The solutions achieved by each strategy are compared, and the best performing strategy is selected. The solution can then be implemented. The assessment of factors and strategies can be updated periodically. A further embodiment includes a method of designing a CHP system using similar methods applied to simulated or estimated future loads and costs.

Abstract: A dynamically configurable electrical distribution system is provided for selectively connecting an electrical power source to load devices. The system comprises an electrical distribution panel and a plurality of switching devices mounted in the panel each electrically connected between an electrical power source and an associated load device for selectively delivering electrical power to the associated load device. A control system is mounted to the panel for controlling operation of the switching devices. The control system comprises a programmed controller for commanding operation of the switching devices. A memory stores configuration information relating to operation of the switching devices. The control system further comprises a user interface device. The program controller is programmed to implement a configuration routine enabling a user to define operation of the switching devices using the user interface.

Abstract: A thermal overload protection for an electrical device, particularly an electric motor (M), measures a load current supplied to the electrical device (M), and calculates the thermal load on the electrical device on the basis of the measured load current, and shuts off (S2) a current supply (L1, L2, L3) when the thermal load reaches a given threshold level. The protection comprises a processor system employing X-bit, preferably X=32, fixed-point arithmetic, wherein the thermal load is calculated by a mathematic equation programmed into the microprocessor system structured such that a result or a provisional result never exceeds the X-bit value.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring, managing, and testing power systems are disclosed. In various embodiments, a site server collects data from one or more generators, automatic transfer switches, sensors, and cameras at a site. The site server stores captured data and triggers alarm events when preselected limits are exceeded. The site server also enables users to configure, initiate, pause, resume, monitor, and abort scripted tests of the monitored entities. In some of these and other embodiments, an enterprise-wide server collects data from multiple site servers, makes the data available via a web-based or other client interface, and provides consolidated monitoring, alarm, test management, and management resources.

Abstract: An air conditioning control device is configured to obtain and control data on an air conditioner, which includes a plurality of indoor units. The air conditioning control device includes a data retrieval component, a data collection component, an analysis component, and an analyzed results display component. The data retrieval component retrieves air conditioner operating data including power consumption data for each indoor unit. The data collection component collects operating data at certain periods of time. The analysis component analyzes operating data for each indoor unit. The analyzed results display component visualizes and displays the analyzed data that has been analyzed by the analysis component.

Abstract: The future of the utility industry will be defined by how its leaders can transform the grid from a “passive” network of cables, wires, poles, and other hardware to a self-aware and fully controllable grid system—an Intelligent Grid System (IGS). We will discuss a novel set of design guidelines for utilities (and other industries) to build their own Open Intelligent Grid System with the lowest possible risk and cost, while achieving the architectural criteria, technical features and functions required. We will discuss how to avoid the dead ends to which limited design and architecture can lead, and we will lay out the design solutions that will overcome the business and technical challenges posed by an array of technology products and business imperatives. Using IGIN (Intelligent Grid Interface Node), one can integrate or connect hybrid networks for different purposes, such as power electric industry, telecommunication, computer network, and Internet.

Abstract: Devices and systems control energy usage in accordance with instructions from a head end system. A device may be instructed to cease energy consumption. Another device may allow users to override some instructions. Messages may be provided to users to request the cessation of energy consumption; the users may, but need not comply.

Abstract: A redundant fieldbus system provides power and communications in a parallel physical configuration between the host system and attached field devices irrespective of any single point failure in the network. In case of a fault, the redundant fieldbus system automatically eliminates the faulty section of the network, switches power and communications to the healthy portion of the network and terminates the network for signal integrity. A device coupler for the system may include a fault detector coupled to an auto-termination circuit that terminates a fieldbus cable when a fault is detected. The device coupler may include fault detection and isolation coupled to each set of spur terminals used to connect field devices to the device coupler. A field device for the system may include circuitry for deselecting a faulty cable while maintaining connection to a healthy cable.

Abstract: A method and tool for an integrated power switching device configuration tool and fault response tolerance calculator determines the fault response tolerance characteristics of a power switching device, adjusts the predicted fault responses based on the fault response tolerances and displays the adjusted fault response results. The fault response tolerance calculation tool uses configuration information defined during the configuring of the power switching device and applies this information to an over current response curve selected by a user. The tool calculates the different fault response tolerances and adjusts predicted response times accordingly. The adjusted fault responses are displayed to the user along with a range of recommended fault response values.

Abstract: Redundant functionality is implemented in a control of solid state power switching controller (SSPC) (1) to ensure that each power switching channel operates according to a default configuration in case of failure. Each power switching channel in the SSPC includes a solid state switching device (SSSD) (120) that is controlled by a supervisory controller (10) to perform power switching functions for a corresponding load. The SSPC further includes a nonvolatile memory device (44) that stores default commands for controlling the SSSDs in case the SSPC enters into a backup mode, e.g., due to a failure in the supervisory controller. The nonvolatile memory device may be assembled on the same SSPC circuit board as the power switching channels, thereby ensuring that backup control is performed locally in the SSPC device.

Abstract: A site management system (11) is provided for a power system (8) at site in a utility distribution grid (10). The power system (8) includes multiple fuel cell power plants, e.g., fuel cells, (18) and one or more loads (14), for selective connection/disconnection with the grid (10). The site management system (11) controls the power plants (18) in an integrated manner, alternatively in a grid connected mode and a grid independent mode. The multiple power plants (18) at the site may be viewed and operated as a unified distributed resource on the grid (10). The site management system (11) provides signals representative of the present power capability (Kw Capacity—88) of each of the power plants (18), and a signal (Total Kw Capacity—95) representative of the total present power capability at the site.