KR20110050436A - Load condition controlled power circuit - Google Patents

Abstract

According to various aspects of the present invention, methods and circuits for reducing power consumption of power strips, wall outlet systems, power modules, and the like are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the power circuit is configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by disconnecting the electrical connection from the power input. An example power circuit may be in communication with an AC power input and may include a current converter, control circuit, and a switch. The current transformer secondary winding provides an output power level signal that is proportional to the output load. If the behavior of the current converter secondary winding indicates that the power circuit draws substantially no power from the AC power input, the switch enables release of the current converter primary circuit from the power circuit.

Description

LOAD CONDITION CONTROLLED POWER CIRCUIT}

The present invention relates to reducing power consumption in electronic devices. In particular, the present invention relates to circuits and methods for releasing a power output from a power input of a power module, a wall plate system, and / or a power strip in the presence of an idle load condition.

The increasing demand for low power consumption and green consumer devices has sparked interest in power circuits of "green" technology. For example, laptop power adapters that "plug in" continuously consume, on average, 67% of their power in idle mode. Even for power adapters that comply with regulatory requirements of less than 0.5 watts / hour, this extended idle time adds up to 3000 watt-hours per adapter each year. If you calculate the energy consumption of many idle power adapters, the power dissipated is significant.

Each appliance and power adapter in a commercial or residential building will be plugged into the wall plate outlet in some way. Although variants exist from one outlet to two or more outlets, the standard wall plate has two outlets. In an office or home environment, computers, monitors, printers, scanners, and other electronic devices are connected to the wall plate. When not in use, these connected devices often remain in or proceed with a self-imposed idle mode, which typically consumes less than 1 watt per device. Although each device is consuming standby power, the total power delivered by the wall plate can be as much as the product of the number of outputs used and the idle power, perhaps more than 4 watts. Similarly, power strips are used to double the number of available AC outlets in one AC socket. In an office or home environment, computers, monitors, printers, scanners, and other electronic devices are sometimes connected to the same power strip. When not in use, these connected devices sometimes remain in or proceed to self-idle mode, which typically consumes less than 1 watt per device. Although each is consuming standby power, the total power delivered by the power strip can be as much as the product of the number of outputs used and the idle power, perhaps more than 6 watts. This multiplicity of idle power consumed can be reduced or canceled if the wall plate or power strip can detect an idle condition at each outlet and can be learned or programmed to turn off that outlet if present. It can be.

According to various aspects of the present invention, methods and circuits are provided for reducing power consumption of power modules, wall plate systems, power strips, and the like during idle conditions. According to an example embodiment, the load state control power module may be configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by releasing at least one power output from the power input. The power module may be connected to one or more power outputs, and the power input may provide alternating current (AC) to the one or more power outputs. The power module may include a current measurement system, a control circuit, and a switch. The current measurement system provides an output power level signal that is proportional to the load at the power output. In an exemplary embodiment, if the behavior of the current measurement system indicates that at least one power output draws substantially no power from the AC power input, the switch enables release of the power input from this power output.

In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system is configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by releasing at least one outlet from the power input. The wall plate system may include one or more output ports and one or more wall plate circuits, with an AC power input connected to the output ports through the wall plate circuit (s). The wall plate circuit may include a current measuring system, a control circuit, and a switch. The current measurement system provides, via the switch, an output power signal through the switch that is proportional to the load at the output port. In an exemplary embodiment, if the behavior of the current measurement system indicates that at least one output port draws substantially no power from the AC power input, the switch enables release of power input from this output port. .

The wall plate system may also include both circuitry and standard wall plate for reducing power during idle mode. The wall plate circuit can be stored on the back or inside of the standard wall plate. In yet another embodiment, the wall plate system may be a wall plate adapter configured to be installed and connected to a standard wall plate. The wall plate adapter may be connected to the standard wall plate by plugging in one or more of the outlets of the standard wall plate, and the electronic device may be plugged into the wall plate adapter in place of the standard wall plate.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power strip is configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by releasing at least one output port from the power input. The power strip may include one or more output ports and one or more output circuits, with an AC power input connected to the output port through the output circuit (s). The output circuit may include a current converter, a control circuit, and a switch. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the current converter provides an output power level signal that is proportional to the load at the output port. In an exemplary embodiment, if the behavior of the secondary winding of the current converter indicates that at least one output port draws substantially no power from the AC power input, then the switch is configured to output the primary of the current converter from this output port. Enable the release of the circuit.

A more complete understanding of the invention may be obtained by reference to the detailed description and claims when the same reference numerals are considered in conjunction with the drawings which refer to like elements.
1 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control power module according to an example embodiment.
2 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control power module according to an example embodiment.
3 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control power module according to an example embodiment.
4 illustrates a circuit diagram of an example control circuit for use within an example load state control power module according to an example embodiment.
5A illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
5B illustrates another block diagram of an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
5C shows another block diagram of an example load state control wall plate system.
6 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
7 illustrates a circuit diagram of an example control circuit for use in an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
8 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
9 shows a schematic diagram of an example control circuit for use in an example load state control wall plate system according to an example embodiment.
10 illustrates a diagram of an example load state control wall plate system as an adaptive device, according to an example embodiment.
11A shows a block diagram of an example load state control power strip.
11B illustrates another block diagram of an example load state control power strip, according to an example embodiment.
12 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control power strip, according to an example embodiment.
13 illustrates a circuit diagram of an example control circuit for use in an example load state control power strip, according to an example embodiment.
14 illustrates a block diagram of an example load state control power strip, according to an example embodiment.

In the present specification, the present invention may be described in terms of various functional components and various processing steps. Such functional components may be realized by any number of hardware or structural components configured to perform specific functions. For example, the present invention may employ integrated components such as buffers, current mirrors, for example logic devices including various electrical elements such as resistors, transistors, capacitors, diodes, and the like, the values of which are variously intended. It may be appropriately configured for the purpose. In addition, the present invention may be practiced in any integrated circuit application. However, for illustrative purposes only, embodiments of the present invention will be described herein in connection with sensing and control systems and methods for use in power strip circuits, power modules, output ports, and the like. In addition, various components may be suitably combined or connected to other components in an example circuit, while such connections and couplings may be by direct connection between the components or by connections through other components and devices located therebetween. Please note that it can be realized.

Power module

Various embodiments are possible for a power module configured to reduce or cancel power during an idle mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the circuitry for implementing the power module is integrated into, or part of, a larger device to control the power input to the larger device based on various load conditions. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the power module is a component that can be removable or fixed as part of an electronic device. The power module may be a printed circuit board, potted block, integrated circuit, MEMS device, or any other structure configured to be implemented in a larger device or system. In yet another example embodiment, the power module may be in a housing configured to facilitate simple mounting of the power module. This embodiment can be added to existing electrical devices.

According to various aspects of the present invention, a power module configured to reduce or cancel power during an idle mode by releasing a power input is disclosed. In an example embodiment, referring to FIG. 1, the power module 100 includes a power input 110, a power output 120, and a power module circuit 130. Thus, the power module 100 may include any configuration of systems in which a power input is received so that power is provided at the power output and circuitry releases power provided to the power output to reduce power consumption.

In an example embodiment, power input 110 and power output 120 are three-pin or two-pin plugs or receptacles. In yet another embodiment, power input 110 and power output 120 include flying leads for connection to various electrical components. Other connections may be made by terminal strips, spade connectors, or fixed connectors mounted on a printed circuit board. However, power input 110 and power output 120 may be properly configured in any other input and / or output configuration. In addition, power input 110 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source in one example embodiment.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power module 100 includes a power input 110 communicatively coupled to the power module circuit 130, which also communicates to the power output 120 as shown in FIG. 2. Possibly combined. Power output 120 may also be coupled or coupled to ground and neutral lines in an exemplary embodiment. The power module circuit 130 includes a current measurement system 231, a control circuit 232, and a switch 233. In an exemplary embodiment, for illustrative purposes, current measurement system 231 includes a current converter 231 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding. However, the current measurement system 231 may also include a resistor along with a differential amplifier, current sense chip, hall-effect device, or any other suitable component configured to measure current, as known or devised below. Current converter 231 provides control circuit 232 with an output power level signal that is proportional to the load at power output 120. In addition, the switch 233 connects the primary circuit of the current converter 231 to the power output 120.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 232 may include at least one or a combination of latch circuits, analog circuits, state machines, and microprocessors. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 monitors the state of the secondary winding of the current converter 231 and controls the operation of the switch 233. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 receives a low frequency or DC signal from the current converter 231. The low frequency signal may be 60 Hz, for example. This low frequency or DC signal is interpreted by the control circuit 232 as the current required by the load at the power output 120.

The control circuit 232 may include various structures for monitoring the state of the secondary winding of the current converter 231 and controlling the operation of the switch 233. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 3, the control circuit 232 includes a current sensor 301 and a logic control circuit 302. Current sensor 301 monitors the output of a current measurement system, such as a secondary winding of current converter 231, which is, for example, an AC voltage proportional to the load current. The current sensor 301 also provides a signal to the logic controller 302. In an example embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 301. In another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 301.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic control unit 302 is powered by an energy storage capacitor. The logic controller 302 may simply connect a storage capacitor to the power input 110 to sustain the power supply of the logic controller 302. In another embodiment, the logic controller 302 may be powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also referred to as a household power source or a hotel power source, and functions as an auxiliary low power source. In one embodiment, auxiliary power is taken from power input 110. For details of similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Application 61 / 052,939, "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power," which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 302 is a microprocessor that can be programmed before and after integration of the power module 100 in the electronic device. In one embodiment, a user may connect to the logic controller 302 to customize the parameters of the power module 100. For example, the user may set the sleep mode duty cycle and the threshold level of the power module 100. Data from power module 100 may be transmitted, for example, in terms of historical power consumption and / or energy saved. For example, bidirectional data transfer between the power module 100 and the display device may be accomplished via wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals. Data transfer may also be accomplished using a wired connection such as, for example, a USB connection or other similar connection.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 232 may further include a power separator 303 in communication with the logic controller 302. The power separator 303 is configured to isolate the logic controller 302 from the power input 110 to reduce power loss. While isolated, logic controller 302 is powered by a storage capacitor or other energy source, and logic controller 302 enters a sleep mode. Once the storage capacitor reaches the low power level, the power separator 303 is configured to reconnect the logic controller 302 to the power input 110 to charge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, power separator 303 may reduce power loss from a microamp range leakage current to a nanoamp range leakage current.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 receives a control signal that affects the power input 110 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar protocol. The control circuit 232 is adapted to couple the secondary winding of the current converter 231, or the power input 110, to the control circuit 232 from the combined power input 110, as known or as designed below. The control signal can be received via any other suitable means configured. This control signal may come from within the power module 100 or from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or may be a control signal of a frequency at least different from that of the power input 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 interprets the high frequency control signal to connect or disconnect the switch 233. In another embodiment, the external controller may transmit a signal to turn the power module 100 on or off.

In an exemplary embodiment, if the power output 120 draws substantially no power from the power input 110 in the behavior of the secondary winding of the current converter 231, the switch 233 may output the power output ( Enable or control release of the primary circuit of current transducer 231 from 120. That is, the switch 233 enables release of power from the power output 120. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the current converter 231 is monitored for an AC waveform at an AC line frequency of the power input 110, where the AC waveform is a current converter with respect to the power output 120. 231 has an RMS voltage proportional to the load current passing through the primary circuit. In another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to generate a DC signal prior to being received by the control circuit 232. The DC signal is proportional to the load current through the primary circuit of the current converter 231 with respect to the power output 120.

In one embodiment, the phrase “substantially no power is consumed” is intended to convey that the output power is in the range of approximately 0-1% of a typical maximum output load. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch 233 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of the current converter 231 to the power output 120, the primary of the current converter 231 from the power output 120. A switching mechanism for substantially releasing the circuit. The switch 233 may include at least one of a relay, a latch relay, a TRIAC, and optionally an isolated TRIAC.

By substantially disabling the primary circuit of current converter 231, power consumption at power output 120 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling the power output 120 is sufficiently low to be suitable for releasing the switch 233 from the power output 120 to remove power. It is intended to convey that the output signal of the winding has been interpreted by the control circuit 232.

In another example embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the power module circuit 130 is configured to enable closing of the switch 233 through the logic control unit 302. More). Closure of the switch 233 reconnects the power output 120 to the primary circuit of the current converter 231 and to the power input 11. In an exemplary embodiment, reconnect device 234 includes a switch element that can be closed and opened in various ways. For example, the reconnection device 234 may include a push button that can be operated manually. In one embodiment, the push button is located on the face of the power module 100. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 234 is remotely affected by signals propagating through the power input 110 that the control circuit 232 translates to on / off control. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 234 is controlled by wireless signals, such as, for example, infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals.

In one example embodiment, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the power module circuit 130 further includes a reconnect device memory state 304. The reconnect device memory state 304 is configured to indicate whether the reconnect device 234 has been recently activated so that the logic controller 302 can determine the circuit state at power-up. In an exemplary embodiment, reconnect device memory state 304 includes a capacitor C5 that charges when reconnect device 234 is activated. The logic control unit 302 may then measure the voltage on the capacitor C5 as an indication of whether the reconnect device 234 has been activated. In one preferred embodiment, reconnect device memory state 304 provides a digital readout to the PBI input of logic controller 302. If there is enough voltage in capacitor C5, the PBI input reads "1". If there is insufficient voltage on capacitor C5, the PBI input reads " 0 ". The determination of which voltage is sufficient depends in part on the ratio of resistors R6 and R7 and can be interpreted by logic control unit 302, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Capacitor C5 functions to store the state of reconnect device 234 until the voltage of capacitor C5 can be read by logic controller 302.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the switch 233 is automatically operated periodically. For example, the switch 233 may automatically reconnect after a few minutes or tens of minutes or a period above or below any period of time. In one embodiment, the switch 233 automatically restarts the battery operated device at a frequency sufficient to prevent the battery operated device connected to the power module 100 from fully discharging the internal battery during a no power period at the input to the connected device. Connected. After the power output 120 is reconnected, in one example embodiment, the power module circuit 130 tests or estimates a load condition, such as power demand at the power output 120. If the load state at power output 120 is increased above the previously measured level, power output 120 is switched to current converter 231 until the load state returns to a selected or predetermined threshold level indicating “low load”. It is maintained to be connected to the primary circuit of. That is, as the power demand at the power output 120 increases, power is provided to the power output 120 until the power demand drops to indicate a defined idle mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load state at the time of reconnection is made after a selected period has elapsed, for example a few seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In yet another embodiment, the load state may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes so that high loads of short bursts are averaged. In another example embodiment, the power module 100 includes a master reconnect device capable of reconnecting all of the power output 120 to the power input 110.

In an exemplary method of operation, the power module 100 has a switch 233 that is closed at initial startup to allow power to flow to the power output 120. When the load condition at the power output 120 is below the threshold level, the control circuit 232 opens the switch 233 to create an open circuit and releases the power output 120 from the input power signal. This release effectively cancels any idle power lost by the power output 120. In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level, for example less than or equal to approximately 1 watt of power flowing to power output 120.

In an example embodiment, different power outputs 120 may have different fixed threshold levels so that devices with higher power levels at idle may be usefully connected to the power module 100 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw approximately 5 watts at idle, but will not be disconnected from the power input 110 if the connected power output 120 has a threshold level of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain power outputs 120 may have a higher threshold level to accommodate high power devices, or may have a lower threshold level for low power devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold level is a learned level. The learned level can be set by the control circuit 232 monitoring the load condition at the power output 120 for a long time. Monitoring can generate a history of power levels over time, which can serve as a template for power demand. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 examines the history of power levels to determine whether the long-term low power demand is the time when the device connected to the power output 120 is in a low power mode or a lowest power mode. do. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 releases the power output 120 for a low power usage time period during which the low power matches the template. For example, the template may demonstrate that the device is in low power demand for 16 hours after withdrawing power through the power output 120 for 8 hours.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 determines a coarse low power level of the electronic device connected to the power output 120 and sets the threshold level as a percentage of the determined approximate low power level. For example, the control circuit 232 may set the threshold level to about 100% to 105% of the approximate low power level demand. In yet another embodiment, the threshold demand may be set at about 100-110% or 110-120% or more of the approximate low level power demand. Further, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the desired ranges.

In addition, the learned threshold level can be set manually. In an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to measure the current power level, in part by activating the reconnection device 234 for a period of time. For example, a user may measure the power level by holding the reconnection device 234 for several seconds while the power module 100 operates in the idle mode. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In one embodiment, the threshold level is set by adding an offset value to the measured power level. The offset value can be configured at various power levels. In addition, the offset value may be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured threshold is about 1 W and an offset value of about 0.5 W is used, the threshold is about 1.5 W. In an exemplary embodiment, the power module 100 is configured to operate in the ultra low idle mode when the load drops below about 1.5 W in this example. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more accurately by manually initiating power level measurements.

Although various functions and structures have been disclosed for an example power module configured to reduce or cancel power during an idle mode by releasing a power input, a detailed illustration of an example power module 400 is in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Can be provided. Referring to FIG. 4, in an example embodiment of the power module 400, the power module circuit 130 may include a current converter 231, a current sensor 301, a logic controller 302, a power separator 303, Reconnect device memory state 304, and switch 233.

In one embodiment, the current converter 231 and the current sensor 301 measure the current from the power input 110 in combination so that the current is proportional to a DC voltage that can be read by the logic controller 302. Convert to In addition, the switch 233 may include a latch relay, such as a relay coil K1, which provides a firm connection / disconnection of the power input 110 to the power output 120 after a command from the logic controller 302. . The switch 233 alternates between open and closed connections. In addition, the switch 233 maintains the position until reset by the logic control unit 302, and maintains the position without consuming any power in the relay coil K1.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic control unit 302 receives the input of current from the power input line to control the state of the switch 233 and the state or position of the contact of the reconnect device 234 and the switch 233. It includes a microcontroller that reads or calculates. In addition, the logic controller 302 learns and stores a power profile for the electronic device connected to the power output 120. In yet another example embodiment, the power module circuit 130 further includes a reconnect device 234 and a reconnect device memory state 304. The reconnection device 234 is activated to turn on the power output 120 when the power module circuit 130 is first connected to the power input 110 or when the maximum power is required for the power output 120 immediately. The reconnect device memory state 304 is configured to indicate to the logic controller 302 whether the reconnect device 234 has recently been activated.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power separator 303 regulates the power input 110 at a safe level suitable for the logic control 302 and isolates the zener diode from the power input 110. And a network of transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 used in conjunction with (Z1, Z2). In yet another embodiment, the power separator 303 includes a relay in addition to or in place of the transistors of the previous embodiment.

Initial connection of power module 400 includes connecting power module 400 to a power source that may be AC or DC. In an exemplary method, upon initial plug-in of the power module 400 to a power source, all the circuits of the power module circuit 130 are turned off and the final position at which the switch 233 is set by the logic controller 302. Or in a state. This initial state may or may not provide power to the power output 120. When all the circuits are off, no current flows in the power module circuit 130. This is due to the isolation provided by the power separator 303 and the reconnect device 234 in the normal open position. In an exemplary embodiment, power separator 303 includes transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 and capacitor C3. In this state, only leakage current flows through transistors Q1 and Q2, and the leakage current is on the order of tens of nanoamps. In addition, the current converter 231 provides dielectric isolation from the primary side to the secondary side so that only a small leakage current flows due to the capacitance between the windings of the current converter 231.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, in an exemplary embodiment, for illustrative purposes, the user may reconnect the circuit using the reconnect device 234, so that the diode D1, the zener diode Z1, the reconnect device ( 234, a current path through the resistor R4, the diode R6, and the zener diode Z3 may be set. Diode D1 functions to half-wave rectify the AC line to drop the peak-to-peak voltage in half. Zener diode Z1 further reduces the voltage from diode D1 by, for example, about 20 volts. Zener diode Z3 and resistor R4 form a current limiting Zener regulator that provides an appropriate DC voltage at the VDD input to logic controller 302 while reconnect device 234 is maintained. Capacitor C2 also smoothes the DC signal on zener diode Z3 to provide storage during contact bounce of reconnect device 234. Capacitor C2 is sized to provide sufficient storage during startup time of logic controller 302, and capacitor C2 in combination with resistor R4 is a high speed on the VDD input to properly reset logic controller 302. Provide a rising edge. In addition, the diode C5 isolates the capacitor C2 from the capacitor CS so that the rise time constants of the capacitor C2 and the resistor R4 are not affected by the large capacitance of the capacitor CS. When capacitor CS supplies power to logic controller 302, current in capacitor CS passes through diode D5. Diode D6 functions to isolate the voltage on capacitor C2 when reconnect device 234 is released. This allows the voltage stored in the capacitor C5 to be maintained when the reconnection device 234 is opened during the closing time of the reconnection device 234, informing the logic controller 302 of the open state.

In an example embodiment, if reconnect device 234 is activated for a few milliseconds, logic controller 302 is configured to initialize and immediately set up to provide its power before reconnect device 234 is released. . This is accomplished from the voltage doubler outputs VD1-VD3 and ZG1 of the logic controller 302. First, output ZG1 is driven high to turn on transistor Q2. Transistor Q2 is turned on, and a current path is established through resistor R3 and zener diode Z2 to provide a regulated voltage at the drain of transistor Q1. This regulated voltage is similar to that produced by zener diode Z3 and is suitable for the VDD input of logic controller 302. Second, after the voltage on zener diode Z2 has stabilized for several microseconds, outputs VD1-VD3 of logic controller 302 begin to switch to generate a gate drive signal, turning on transistor Q1. . The signals generated by the outputs VD1-VD3 and the components including the capacitor C3, the transistor Q3, the capacitor C4, the diode D3, and the diode D4 are the components of the logic controller 302. Generate a voltage at the gate of transistor Q1 that is about twice the voltage on the VDD input. This voltage doubling firmly turns on transistor Q1. Once transistor Q1 is on, the voltage of zener diode Z2 charges capacitor CS. In an exemplary embodiment, the capacitor CS is a large storage capacitor used to power the logic control unit 302 when the reconnection device 234 is not running. After the capacitor CS is charged for several milliseconds, the outputs VD1 to VD3 and ZG1 return to a resting state, and the transistors Q1 and Q2 are turned on. In the present embodiment, the logic controller 302 operates so that the stored charge of the capacitor CS is turned off, and does not draw power from the power input 110. When the reconnection device 234 is no longer activated, the capacitor CS continues to supply power to the logic controller 302.

If power output 120 is in an idle state and substantially no power is drawn, then logic controller 302 may be released from power draw to enter a " sleep " mode. In an example method, further referring to FIG. 4, in the logic control unit 302 executing the timing function using the capacitor C6 when the logic control unit 302 is operating from energy stored in the capacitor CS. The timing function is enabled. Capacitor C6 is briefly charged by the CAPTIME output of logic controller 302, and with time capacitor C6 discharge rate mimics the attenuation of the voltage on capacitor CS. Once the capacitor C6 voltage at the input CAPTIME reaches a low level, the logic controller 302 sets the state of the outputs VD1 to VD3 and ZG1 to recharge the capacitor CS from the AC line. . This process is repeated over and over, no power is lost to the logic controller 302. The recharging process takes only a few milliseconds or less depending on the size of the capacitor CS.

Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 302 is busy in recharging the capacitor CS, switching the relay K1, or measuring power drawn from the power output 120. If not, the logic controller 302 is operating in a deep sleep mode where all or substantially all of the internal activity is suspended and the capacitor C6 is waiting to discharge. This sleep mode consumes very little power and allows the charge on the storage capacitor CS to last for many seconds. When the reconnection device 234 is activated during the sleep mode, the capacitor C5 is recharged, and the logic control unit 302 resumes normal operation to set or reset the relay K1. Alternatively, if the capacitor C6 voltage drops too low, the logic controller 302 will recharge the capacitor CS and then return to sleep mode.

While the electronic device is in the idle mode, the power module 100 may continue to monitor the charge in the power drawn by the electronic device. In an exemplary embodiment, logic controller 302 continues to enter and exit sleep mode for its repowering, while logic controller 302 is also drawing power from power output 120. Will be tested periodically. The period of the power test is much larger than the period of the capacitor CS charging, and may be tested every 10 minutes or more, for example. According to an exemplary method, there are at least three possible outcomes from the results of the power test: 1) the device is in operation and the switch is not in standby; 2) the device is not operating, but the switch is in standby. Or 3) the switch is in the standby state.

For the output when the device is in operation and the switch is not in standby, the relay K1 is set to deliver power to the power output 120 in advance, and in the power test a significant load by the connected electronics Indicates that a current is drawn. By "significant load" may be defined as some fixed value programmed into the logic control unit 302, or may be the result of a number of power tests, and may be a typical load current for such electronic devices. The power test result is here interpreted as a steady state, and the logic controller 302 is returned to sleep mode cycling when the power test is made again before another time period such as 10 minutes has passed. In another exemplary embodiment, the period of sleep mode cycling is determined by the user. For example, the user can set the sleep mode period to 1, 2 or 5 minutes and do this using a dial, digital input, push button, keypad, or any suitable means known or hereafter devised. .

In the event that the device is not operating but the switch is not in standby state, the relay K1 is pre-set to deliver power to the power output 120 and, in the power test, can be ignored by the connected device. Indicates that a load current is being drawn. “Loads that can be ignored” may be some fixed value programmed into the logic controller 302, or may be a typical minimum value found for such electronic devices as a result of multiple power tests. In either case, the action taken by the logic control unit 302 sets the relay K1 to an open state using the outputs RELAY1-RELAY2 of the logic control unit 302 to supply power to the relay coil K1. Done. Since the logic control unit 302 may not know the previous state of the relay K1, for example, starting from the power off state, the state of the relay K1 is caused by the logic control unit 302 in the resistor R5 at RELAY3. Is determined by testing for the presence of

In the result when the switch is in the standby state, that is, when the relay K1 is set to remove power from the power output 120, the logic control unit 302 sets the relay K1 to the closed state, thereby providing AC power. It must be applied to this power output. In an exemplary embodiment, once the relay K1 is set, a time period elapses before the power test is performed. This delay causes the electronic device attached to the power output 120 to initialize and enter into a stable mode of operation. Now, power measurements may be made over several time periods to determine whether the electronic device is in a low power state or a high power state. When the high power state is determined, the relay K1 is kept in the set state. Once the low power state is determined, the relay K1 is reset to the open state and power is removed from the power output 120 again. In addition, the logic controller 302 will begin sleep mode cycling and power testing again, eg every 10 minutes, after the determined time period.

If the user wants to operate a device that is connected to power output 120 and the power output is turned off, in one example embodiment, activating reconnect device 234 to wake up logic controller 302 in sleep mode. It will wake up immediately. Since the wake up is due to the start up of the reconnection device 234 and not due to the power test or the recharging of the capacitor CS, the logic control unit 302 immediately sets the relay K1 to the closed position, thereby outputting the power output 120. It supplies power to the electronic device connected to).

In addition to the embodiments described above, various other components may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to improve user control is to allow a user to select an operating mode of power output. In an exemplary embodiment, the power module 100 further includes a "green mode" switch to enable or disable "green" mode operation. The green mode switch may be a robust manual switch or may be a signal to logic controller 302. "Green" mode operation is to release the power output 120 from the power input 110 when substantially no load is drawn at the power output 120. The user can use the green mode switch to disable green mode operation on various power outputs when desired. For example, such added control may be desirable on a power output that powers devices that need to be turned on momentarily, such as a device with a clock or a fax machine.

In one embodiment, the power module 100 includes an LED indicator that can indicate whether the power output is connected to a power line to draw a load current. The LED indicator may indicate whether the power output is active, that is, whether power is drawn from the electronic device, and / or indicate whether the power output has available power even when the electronic device is not connected. In addition, pulsed LEDs may be used to indicate when a power test is being performed or to indicate the "heartbeat" of sleep mode recharge.

In yet another embodiment, the power module 100 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display may be operated by the logic controller 302 to indicate, for example, the load power being provided to the power output 120 during operation time. The LCD may also provide information about power consumed or reduced by operating the power module 100 in the "green" mode or when not in the "green" mode. For example, the LCD may display the sum of the total watts saved in a day or during a particular time period, such as the life of the power module 100.

Various embodiments may also be used to enhance the individual power output in the power module and / or the efficient use of the power module. One such embodiment is the implementation of a photocell or other optical sensor monitored by logic controller 302. The photocell determines whether light is present at the location of the power module 100, and the logic controller 302 can use this determination to release the power output 120 according to the ambient light condition. For example, the logic controller 302 can release the power output 120 during a dark period. That is, the power output of the power module can be turned off at night. Another example is a device that does not require power if it is located in a dark room such as a conference room that is not used in an office. In addition, the power output may be turned off when the ambient light condition exceeds a certain level, and the specific level may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In yet another embodiment, the power module 100 further includes an internal clock. The logic controller 302 may use the internal clock to learn which time period at the power output 120 indicates high power usage. This knowledge can be included to determine when the power output should have available power. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal clock has a crystal decision accuracy. In addition, the internal clock need not be set to the actual time. In addition, the internal clock can be used in combination with photocells for better power module efficiency and / or accuracy.

Wall plate system

Various embodiments are also possible for a wall plate system that is configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system and associated circuitry are configured to engage or engage with a wall plate having one or more outlets. For example, the wall plate system can be stored inside and behind the standard wall plate. Such embodiments may be added to existing standard wall plates in residential or commercial locations. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system includes both a standard wall plate and circuitry to reduce power during idle mode. In another example embodiment, referring to FIG. 10 for illustration, a wall plate system may be defined as a wall plate adapter configured to be installed and connected to a standard wall plate as used herein. The wall plate adapter can be connected to the standard wall plate by plugging in one or more of the outlets of the standard wall plate. In this embodiment, the electronic device can be plugged into the wall plate adapter in place of the standard wall plate. Other configurations are also contemplated within various embodiments of the present invention for engaging and / or fastening the electrical outlet and the wall plate system.

According to various aspects of the present invention, a wall plate system is disclosed that is configured to reduce or cancel power during an idle mode by releasing power input from at least one output port. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 5A, the wall plate system 500 includes two or more output ports 520 and a wall plate circuit 530. In another exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 includes one output port 520 and one wall plate circuit 530. In another exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 5B, the wall plate system 500 is directly connected to the AC line input 510 and at least one output port 520 coupled to the wall plate circuit 530. At least one output port 520 is included. In another exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 5C, the wall plate system 500 configures individual wall plate circuits to control power input to individual output ports 520, such that two or more output ports 520 are provided. ) And two or more wall plate circuits 530. Thus, wall plate system 500 may comprise any configuration of a system in which a power input is received, wherein power is provided at the output port, and the circuitry releases power provided at the output port to reduce power consumption.

In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 6, the wall plate system 500 includes an AC line input 510 communicatively coupled to the wall plate circuit 530, which also includes an output port ( 520 is communicatively coupled. Output port 520 is also connected or coupled to the ground line and the neutral line. Also, AC line input 510 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source in one example embodiment. Wall plate circuit 530 includes current measurement system 631, control circuit 632, and switch 633. In one example embodiment, for illustrative purposes, current measurement system 631 includes a current converter 631 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding. However, current measurement system 631 may also include a resistor, current sense chip, hall-effect element, or any other suitable component configured to measure current as known or hereinafter as designed with the differential amplifier. have. The current converter 631 provides an output power signal proportional to the load at the output port 520. In addition, the switch 633 connects the primary circuit of the current converter 631 to the output port 520.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 632 may include one or a combination of latch circuits, analog circuits, state machines, and microprocessors. In one embodiment, the control circuit 632 monitors the state of the secondary winding of the current transducer 631 and controls the operation of the switch 633. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 receives a low frequency or DC signal from the current converter 631. The low frequency signal may be 60 Hz, for example. This low frequency or DC signal is interpreted by the control circuit 632 as the current required for the load at the output port 520.

The control circuit 632 may include various structures for monitoring the state of the secondary winding of the current converter 631 and controlling the operation of the switch 633. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 7, the control circuit 632 includes a current sensor 701 and a logic controller 702. Current sensor 701 monitors the output of a current measurement system, such as a secondary winding of current converter 631, which is, for example, an AC voltage proportional to the load current. The current sensor 701 also provides a signal to the logic controller 702. In one embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 701. In yet another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 701. In another exemplary embodiment, with reference to FIG. 8 for a moment, the wall plate circuit 530 of the wall plate system is in communication with and controls one or more current transducers 631 and one or more switches 633 to provide logic. The control unit 702 is included.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 702 is powered by an energy storage capacitor. The logic controller 702 may be shortly connected to the storage capacitor to continue to supply power to the logic controller 702. In another embodiment, the logic controller 702 may be powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also called housekeeping or hotel power and functions as an auxiliary low power source. In one embodiment, auxiliary power is taken from AC line input 510. For further details on similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Application 61 / 052,939, "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power."

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 702 is a microprocessor that can be programmed before and after integrating the wall plate system 500 into the electronic device. In one embodiment, the user may connect to the logic control 702 to customize the parameters of the wall plate system 500. For example, the user can set the threshold level and sleep mode duty cycle of the wall plate system 500. For example, data from wall plate system 500 may be transmitted regarding historical power consumption and / or reduced power. Bidirectional data transfer between the wall plate system 500 and the display device may be accomplished via wireless signals, such as, for example, infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals. Data transfer may be accomplished, for example, using a wired connection such as a USB connection or other similar connection.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 632 may further include a power separator 703 in communication with the logic controller 702. The power separator 703 is configured to isolate the logic controller 702 from the AC line input 510 to reduce power loss. While isolated, logic controller 702 is powered by a storage capacitor or other energy source, and logic controller 702 enters a sleep mode. Once the storage capacitor reaches the low power level, the power separator 703 is configured to reconnect the logic control 702 to the AC line input 510 to recharge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, the power separator 703 may reduce power loss from leakage in the microampere range to leakage in the nanoampere range.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 receives a control signal imparted on the AC line input 510 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar protocol. The control circuit 632 is from the coupled AC line input 510, or any other that is configured to couple the AC line input 510 to the control circuit 632, as is known or hereafter devised. It is possible to receive the control signal via the secondary winding of the current transducer 631 from any suitable means. Such control signals may originate from within the wall plate system 500 or may originate from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or a control signal of a frequency at least different from the frequency of the AC line input 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 interprets the high frequency control signal to engage or release the switch 633. In another embodiment, the external controller can transmit a signal to put the wall plate system 500 in an "on" or "off" state.

In an exemplary embodiment, if the behavior of the secondary winding of current converter 631 indicates that output port 520 draws substantially no power from AC line input 510, switch 633 The output circuit 520 enables or controls the release of the primary circuit of the current converter 631. That is, the switch 633 enables release of power from the output port 520. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the current converter 631 is monitored for an AC waveform at an AC line frequency, where the AC waveform is directed to the output port 520 to direct the primary circuit of the current converter 631. It has an RMS voltage proportional to the load current passing through it. In yet another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to generate a DC signal before being received by the control circuit 632. The DC signal is proportional to the load current passing through the primary circuit of the current converter 631 towards the output port 520.

In one embodiment, the phrase “substantially no power is consumed” is intended to convey that the output power is in the range of approximately 0-1% of a typical maximum output load. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch 633 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of the current converter 631 to the output port 520, the primary of the current converter 631 from the output port 520. A switching mechanism for substantially releasing the circuit. The switch 633 may include a switching mechanism for releasing at least one or the other of a relay, a latch relay, a TRIAC, and optionally an isolated TRIAC.

By substantially disabling the primary circuit of the current converter 631, power consumption at the output port 520 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling the output port 520 is low enough to be suitable for releasing the switch 633 from the output port 520 to remove power. It is intended to convey that the output signal of the secondary winding has been interpreted by the control circuit 632.

In another exemplary embodiment, the wall plate circuit 530 further includes a reconnection device 234 configured to enable closure of the switch 633 via the logic control 702. Closing the switch 633 reconnects the output port 520 to the primary circuit of the current converter 631 and the AC line input 510. In an exemplary embodiment, the reconnection device 634 includes a switch element that can be closed and opened in various ways. For example, the reconnection device 634 may include a push button that can be operated manually. In one embodiment, the push button is located on the face of the wall plate system 500. In yet another embodiment, the reconnect device 634 is remotely affected by signals propagating through the AC line input 510 that the control circuit 632 interprets as on / off control. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 634 is controlled by wireless signals, such as, for example, infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the switch 633 is automatically operated periodically. For example, the switch 633 may automatically reconnect after a few minutes or tens of minutes or a period above or below any period of time. In one embodiment, the switch 633 is automatically operated at a frequency sufficient to prevent the battery operated device connected to the wall plate system 500 from fully discharging the internal battery during a power-free period at the input to the connected device. Reconnect. After the output port 520 is reconnected, in one example embodiment, the wall plate circuit 530 tests or estimates a load condition such as power demand at the output port 520. If the load condition at the output port 520 is increased above the previously measured level, then the output port 520 will return to the current transducer 631 until the load condition returns to the selected or predetermined threshold level indicating “low load”. It is maintained to be connected to the primary circuit of. That is, when the power demand at the output port 520 increases, power is supplied to the output port 520 until the power demand drops to indicate a defined idle mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load state at the time of reconnection is made after a selected period has elapsed, for example a few seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In yet another embodiment, the load state may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes so that high loads of short bursts are averaged. In another exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 includes a master reconnect device capable of reconnecting all of the output ports 520 to the AC line input 510.

In an exemplary method of operation, the wall plate system 500 has a switch 633 that is closed at initial startup to allow power to flow through the output port 520. When the load state at the output port 520 is below the threshold level, the control circuit 632 opens the switch 633 to generate an open circuit, and releases the output port 520 from the AC power signal. This release effectively cancels any idle power lost by the output port 520. In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level, for example less than approximately 1 watt of power flowing through the output port 520.

In an example embodiment, different output ports 520 may have different fixed threshold levels so that devices with higher power levels at idle may be usefully connected to wall plate system 500 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw approximately 5 watts when idle, but will not be disconnected from the AC line input 510 if the connected output port 520 has a threshold level of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain output ports 520 may have a higher threshold level for accommodating high power devices, or may have a lower threshold level for low power devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold level is a learned level. The learned level can be set by the control circuit 632 monitoring the load condition at the output port 520 for a long time. Monitoring can generate a history of power levels over time, which can serve as a template for power demand. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 examines the history of power levels to determine whether the long term low power demand is the time that the device connected to the output port 520 is in the low power mode or the lowest power mode. do. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 releases the output port 520 during the low power usage time period where the low power duration matches the template. For example, the template may demonstrate that the device is in low power demand for 16 hours after withdrawing power through the output port 520 for 8 hours.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 determines the rough low power level of the electronic device connected to the output port 520 and sets the threshold level as a percentage of the determined approximate low power level. For example, the control circuit 632 may set the threshold level to about 100-105% of the approximate low power level demand. In yet another embodiment, the threshold demand may be set at about 100-110% or 110-120% or more of the approximate low level power demand. Further, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the desired ranges.

In addition, the learned threshold level can be set manually. In an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to measure the current power level, in part by activating the reconnection device 634 for a period of time. For example, a user may hold the reconnect device 634 for several seconds while the wall plate system 500 operates in idle mode to measure the power level. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In one embodiment, the threshold level is set by adding an offset value to the measured power level. The offset value can be configured at various power levels. In addition, the offset value may be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured threshold is about 1 W and an offset value of about 0.5 W is used, the threshold is about 1.5 W. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 is configured to operate in the ultra low idle mode when the load drops below about 1.5 W in this example. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more accurately by manually initiating power level measurements.

Although various functions and structures have been disclosed for an example power module configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by releasing power input, a detailed illustration of an example wall plate system may be provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Can be. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 9, a wall plate system 900 including a wall plate circuit 530 includes a current converter 631, a current sensor 701, a logic controller 702, and a power separator ( 703, and a switch 633.

In one embodiment, current transducer 631 and current sensor 701 combine to measure the current at the AC line input, converting the current into a proportional DC voltage that can be read by logic controller 702. do. The switch 633 may also include a latch relay, which provides a tight connection / disconnection of the AC line input 510 to the output port 520 after the command from the logic control 702. The switch 633 alternates between open and closed contacts. In addition, the switch 633 maintains its position until reset by the logic control unit 702, and maintains the position without consuming any power in the relay coil K1.

In an example embodiment, like the logic control unit 302, the logic control unit 702 receives an input of current from the AC line to control the state of the switch 633, and the reconnect device 634 and the switch 633. A microcontroller that reads or estimates the state or position of the contact. In addition, the logic controller 702 learns and stores a power profile for the electronic device connected to the output port 520. In another exemplary embodiment, the wall plate circuit 530 further includes a reconnect device 634, where the reconnect device 634 is first connected to the AC line input 510. Is turned on when the output port 520 is turned on or when the maximum power is immediately required of the output port 520.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power separator 703 is configured to condition the AC line input 510 to a safe level suitable for the logic control 702 and to isolate the logic control 702 from the AC line input 510. It includes a network of transistors Q1, Q2 and Q3 used. In yet another embodiment, the power separator 703 includes a relay in addition to or in place of the transistors of the previous embodiment.

Initial connection of the wall plate system 900 includes connecting the wall plate system 900 to an AC power source. In one example method, upon initial plug-in of the wall plate system 900 to a power source, all circuits of the wall plate circuit 530 are turned off and the switch 633 is set by the logic control unit 702. You are in position. This initial state may or may not provide power to the output port 520. When all the circuits are off, no current flows into the wall plate circuit 530. This is due to the isolation provided by the power separator 703 and the reconnect device 634 in the normal open position. In an exemplary embodiment, power separator 703 includes transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 and capacitor C3. In this state, only leakage current flows through transistors Q1 and Q2, and the leakage current is on the order of tens of nanoamps. In addition, the current converter 631 provides dielectric isolation from the primary side to the secondary side so that only a small leakage current flows due to the capacitance between the windings of the current converter 631.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, in an example embodiment, for illustrative purposes, the user reconnects the circuit using reconnect device 634 to allow diode D1, zener diode Z1, and resistor R4. The current path through the reconnection device 634 and the zener diode Z3 may be set. Diode D1 functions to half-wave rectify the AC line to drop the peak-to-peak voltage in half. Zener diode Z1 further reduces the voltage from diode D1 by, for example, about 20 volts. Zener diode Z3 and resistor R4 form a current limiting Zener regulator that provides an appropriate DC voltage at the VDD input to logic control 702 while reconnect device 634 is maintained. Capacitor C2 also smoothes the DC signal on zener diode Z3 to provide storage during contact bounce of reconnect device 634. Capacitor C2 is sized to provide sufficient storage during startup time of logic controller 702, and capacitor C2 in combination with resistor R4 is high-speed on the VDD input to properly reset logic controller 702. Provide a rising edge. In addition, the diode C5 isolates the capacitor C2 from the capacitor CS so that the rise time constants of the capacitor C2 and the resistor R4 are not affected by the large capacitance of the capacitor CS. When capacitor CS supplies power to logic controller 702, current in capacitor CS passes through diode D5.

In an example embodiment, if reconnect device 634 is activated for a few milliseconds, logic controller 702 is configured to initialize and immediately set up to provide its power before reconnect device 634 is released. . This is accomplished from the voltage doubler outputs VD1 to VD3 and the output ZG1 of the logic control unit 702, similar to the reconnection operation associated with the logic control unit 302. If the output port 520 is in an idle state and is substantially not drawing any power, the logic controller 702 may be released from the power draw and enter the "sleep" mode. In an example method, further referring to FIG. 9, in the logic control unit 702 executing the timing function using the capacitor C5 when the logic control unit 702 is operating from energy stored in the capacitor CS. The timing function is enabled. Capacitor C5 is briefly charged by the CAPTIME output of logic controller 702, and over time capacitor C5 discharge rate mimics the attenuation of the voltage on capacitor CS. Once the capacitor C5 voltage at the input CAPTIME reaches a low level, the logic controller 702 recharges the capacitor CS again from the AC line to the states of the outputs VD1 to VD3 and output ZG1. Will be set to This process is repeated over and over, no power is lost to the logic control unit 702. The recharging process takes only a few milliseconds or less depending on the size of the capacitor CS.

Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 702 is busy in recharging the capacitor CS, switching the relay K1, or measuring the power drawn from the output port 520. If not, the logic controller 702 is operating in a deep sleep mode where all or substantially all of the internal activity is suspended and the capacitor C5 is waiting to discharge. This sleep mode consumes very little power and allows the charge on the storage capacitor CS to last for many seconds. When the reconnection device 634 is activated during the sleep mode, the logic control unit 702 resumes normal operation to set or reset the relay K1. Alternatively, if the capacitor C5 voltage drops too low, the logic controller 702 recharges the capacitor CS and then returns to the sleep mode.

While the electronic device is in the idle mode, the wall plate system 500 can continue to monitor for charge in the power drawn by the electronic device. In an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 702 keeps entering and exiting the sleep mode for its repowering, while the logic controller 702 is also drawing power from the output port 520. Will be tested periodically. The period of the power test is much larger than the period of the capacitor CS charging, and may be tested every 10 minutes or more, for example. According to an exemplary method, there are at least three possible outcomes from the results of the power test: 1) the device is in operation and the switch is not in standby; 2) the device is not in operation, but the switch is in standby. Or 3) the switch is in the standby state. Features and measures associated with each of these possible outcomes are similar to the possible outcomes described for power module 100.

If the user wants to operate a device that is connected to the output port 520 and the output port is turned off, in one example embodiment, the logical control unit 702 is immediately in sleep mode by activating the reconnection device 634. To wake up. Since the wake up is due to the start of the reconnection device 634, not due to the power test or the recharging of the capacitor CS, the logic controller 702 immediately sets the relay K1 to the closed position, thereby outputting the output port 520. It supplies power to the electronic device connected to).

In addition to the embodiments described above, various other components may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to improve user control is to allow the user to select the operating mode of the outlet. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 further includes a "green mode" switch to enable or disable "green" mode operation. The green mode switch may be a robust manual switch or may be a signal to logic controller 702. "Green" mode operation is to release the output port 520 from the AC line input 510 when substantially no load is drawn at the output port 520. The user can use the green mode switch to disable the green mode operation on various output ports as desired. For example, such added control may be desirable on an output that powers devices that need to be turned on momentarily, such as a device with a clock or a fax machine.

In one embodiment, the wall plate system 100 includes an LED indicator that can indicate whether the output port is connected to a power line to draw load current. The LED indicator may indicate whether the output port is active, that is, whether power is drawn from the electronic device, and / or may indicate whether the output port has available power even if the electronic device is not connected. In addition, pulsed LEDs may be used to indicate when a power test is being performed or to indicate the "heartbeat" of sleep mode recharge.

In yet another embodiment, the wall plate system 500 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display may be operated by the logic control unit 702 to indicate, for example, the load power being provided to the output port 520 during operation time. The LCD may also provide information about power consumed or reduced by operating the wall plate system 500 in the "green" mode or when not in the "green" mode. For example, the LCD may display the sum of the total watts saved in a day or during a particular time period, such as the lifetime of the wall plate system 500.

Various embodiments may also be used to enhance the efficient use of individual outlets and / or wall plate systems in wall plate systems. One such embodiment is the implementation of a photocell or other optical sensor monitored by logic control 702. The photocell determines whether light is present at the location of the wall plate system 500, and the logic controller 702 can use this determination to release the power output 520 in accordance with the ambient light conditions. For example, the logic controller 702 can release the output 520 during the dark period. That is, the outlet of the wall plate system can be turned off at night. Another example is a device that does not require power if it is located in a dark room such as a conference room that is not used in an office. In addition, the power output may be turned off when the ambient light condition exceeds a certain level, and the specific level may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In yet another embodiment, the wall plate system 500 further includes an internal clock. The logic controller 702 can use the internal clock to learn which period of time at the output port 520 indicates high power usage. This knowledge can be included to determine when the power output should have available power. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal clock has quartz crystal accuracy. In addition, the internal clock need not be set to the actual time. In addition, the internal clock can be used in combination with photocells for better power module efficiency and / or accuracy.

Power strip

According to various aspects of the present invention, a power strip is disclosed that is configured to reduce or cancel power during an idle mode by releasing a power input from at least one output port. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 11A, the power strip 1100 includes two or more output ports 1120 and two or more output circuit circuits 1130. In another exemplary embodiment (not shown), the power strip 1100 includes one output port 1120 and one output circuit 1130. In another example embodiment, referring to FIG. 11B, the power strip 1100 is at least one output port 1120 coupled to the output circuit 1130 and at least directly connected to the AC line input 1110. One output port 1120 is included.

In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 12, the power strip 1100 includes an AC line input 1110 that is connected to an output port circuit 1130, which is also connected to an output port 1120. The output port circuit 1130 includes a current measuring system 1231, a control circuit 1232, and a switch 1233. In an exemplary embodiment, current measurement system 1231 includes a current converter 1231 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding for illustrative purposes. However, current measurement system 1231 may also include a resistor, current sense chip, hall-effect element, or any other suitable component configured to measure current as known or hereinafter as designed with the differential amplifier. have. The current converter 1231 provides an output power level signal proportional to the load at the output port 1220. In addition, the switch 1233 connects the primary circuit of the current converter 1231 to the output port 1120.

Also, in one embodiment, the AC line input 1110 is a standard three wire ground plug and cord set connected to the body of the power strip 1100. However, the AC line input 1110 may be appropriately configured in any AC power input configuration, or may be replaced with any other input power configuration. AC line input 1110 is connected in parallel with a number of similar output circuit 1130 that is interposed between AC line input 1110 and output port 1120. In addition, the AC line input 1110 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source in one example embodiment.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 1232 may include at least one or a combination of latch circuits, analog circuits, state machines, and microprocessors. In one embodiment, the control circuit 1232 monitors the state of the secondary winding of the current converter 1231 and controls the operation of the switch 1233. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, control circuit 1232 receives a low frequency or DC signal from current converter 1231. The low frequency signal may be 60 Hz, for example. This low frequency or DC signal is interpreted by the control circuit 1232 as the current required for the load at the output port 1120.

The control circuit 1232 may include various structures for monitoring the state of the secondary winding of the current converter 1231 and controlling the operation of the switch 633. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIG. 13, the control circuit 1232 includes a current sensor 1301 and a logic controller 1302. Current sensor 1301 monitors the output of a current measurement system, such as a secondary winding of current converter 1231, which is, for example, an AC voltage proportional to the load current. In addition, the current sensor 1301 provides a signal to the logic controller 1302. In one embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 1301. In yet another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current monitored by current sensor 1301. In another exemplary embodiment, with reference to FIG. 14 for a moment, the logic circuit controller 1130 of the power strip communicates with and controls one or more current transducers 1231 and one or more switches 1233. 1302.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic controller 1302 is powered by an energy storage capacitor. The logic controller 1302 may shortly connect the storage capacitor to the AC input line 1110 to continuously supply power to the logic controller 1302. In yet another embodiment, the logic controller 1302 may be powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also called housekeeping or hotel power and functions as an auxiliary low power source. In one embodiment, auxiliary power is taken from AC line input 1110. For further details on similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Application 61 / 052,939, "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power."

In an example embodiment, the logic controller 1302 is a microprocessor that can be programmed before and after integrating the power strip 1100 into the electronic device. In one embodiment, the user may connect to the logic controller 1302 to customize the parameters of the power strip 1100. For example, the user can set the threshold level and sleep mode duty cycle of the power strip 1100. For example, data from power strip 1100 may be transmitted regarding historical power consumption and / or reduced power. Bidirectional data transfer between the power strip 1100 and the display device may be accomplished via wireless signals, such as, for example, infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals. Data transfer may be accomplished, for example, using a wired connection such as a USB connection or other similar connection.

In an example embodiment, the control circuit 1232 may further include a power separator 1303 in communication with the logic controller 1302. Power separator 1303 is configured to isolate logic control 1302 from AC line input 1110 to reduce power loss. While isolated, logic controller 1302 is powered by a storage capacitor or other energy source, and logic controller 1302 enters a sleep mode. Once the storage capacitor reaches the low power level, the power separator 1303 is configured to reconnect the logic control 1302 to the AC line input 1110 to recharge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, the power separator 1303 can reduce power loss from leakage in the microamps range to leakage in the nanoamps range.

In another example embodiment, the control circuit 1232 receives a control signal imparted on the AC line input 1110 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar protocol. The control circuit 1332 is from any of the coupled AC line inputs 1110 or any other configured to couple the AC line inputs 1110 with respect to the control circuit 1232, as is known or hereafter devised. It is possible to receive the control signal via the secondary winding of the current transducer 631 from any suitable means. This control signal may originate from within the power strip 1100 or may originate from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or a control signal of a frequency different from at least the frequency of the AC line input 1110. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 interprets the high frequency control signal to engage or release the switch 1233. In another embodiment, the external controller may transmit a signal to turn the power strip 1100 "on" or "off".

In an exemplary embodiment, if the behavior of the secondary winding of current converter 1231 indicates that output port 1120 draws substantially no power from AC line input 1110, switch 1233 is Enable or control the release of the primary circuit of current converter 1231 from output port 1120. That is, the switch 1233 enables release of power from the output port 1120. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the current converter 1231 is monitored for an AC waveform at an AC line frequency, where the AC waveform is directed to the output port 1120 for the primary circuit of the current converter 1231. It has an RMS voltage proportional to the load current passing through it. In yet another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to generate a DC signal before being received by the control circuit 1232. The DC signal is proportional to the load current passing through the primary circuit of the current converter 1231 towards the output port 1120.

In one embodiment, the phrase “substantially no power is consumed” is intended to convey that the output power is in the range of approximately 0-1% of a typical maximum output load. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch 1233 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of the current converter 1231 to the output port 1120, and the primary of the current converter 1231 from the output port 1120. A switching mechanism for substantially releasing the circuit. The switch 1233 may include at least one of a relay, a latch relay, a TRIAC, and optionally an isolated TRIAC.

By substantially disabling the primary circuit of the current converter 1231, power consumption at the output port 1120 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling output port 1120 is low enough to be suitable for releasing switch 1233 from output port 1120 to remove power. It is intended to convey that the output signal of the secondary winding has been interpreted by the control circuit 1232.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the output port circuit 1130 further includes a reconnect device 1234 configured to enable closure of the switch 1233 through the logic controller 1302. Closure of the switch 1233 reconnects the output port 1120 to the primary circuit of the current converter 1231 and the AC line input 1110. In an exemplary embodiment, reconnect device 1234 includes a switch element that can be closed and opened in various ways. For example, the reconnection device 1234 may include a push button that can be operated manually. In one embodiment, the push button is located near the output port 1120 on the power strip 1100, or on the same side of the power strip 1100 as the output port 1120, or the output port 1120, for example. ) Is located on the side of the power strip 1100 adjacent. In another embodiment, the reconnect device 1234 may allow the user to re-enable power to the output port of the power strip 1100 without directly contacting the power strip 1100. It is located remotely against. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 1234 is remotely affected by signals propagating through the AC line input 1110 which the control circuit 1232 interprets as on / off control. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 1234 is controlled by a wireless signal such as, for example, an infrared signal, a radio frequency signal, or other similar signal.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the switch 1233 is automatically operated periodically. For example, the switch 1233 may automatically reconnect after a period of minutes or tens of minutes or a period above or below any period of time. In one embodiment, the switch 1233 is automatically restarted at a frequency sufficient to prevent the battery operated device connected to the power strip 1100 from fully discharging the internal battery during a no power period at the input to the connected device. Connected. After the output port 1120 is reconnected, in one example embodiment, the output port circuit 1130 tests or estimates a load condition such as power demand at the output port 1120. If the load state at the output port 1120 is increased above the previously measured level, the output port 1120 may be switched to the current converter 1231 until the load state returns to a selected or predetermined threshold level indicating “low load”. It is maintained to be connected to the primary circuit of. In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load state at the time of reconnection is made after a selected period has elapsed, for example a few seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In yet another embodiment, the load state may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes so that high loads of short bursts are averaged. In another exemplary embodiment, the power strip 1100 includes a master reconnect device capable of reconnecting all of the output ports 1120 to the AC line input 1110.

In an exemplary method of operation, the power strip 1100 has a switch 1233 that is closed at initial startup to allow power to flow through the output port 1120. When the load state at the output port 1120 is below the threshold level, the control circuit 1232 opens the switch 1233 to generate an open circuit, and releases the output port 1120 from the AC power signal. This release effectively cancels any idle power lost by the output port 1120. In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level, for example less than or equal to approximately 1 watt of power flowing through the output port 1120.

In an example embodiment, different output ports 1120 may have different fixed threshold levels so that devices with higher power levels at idle may be usefully connected to the power strip 1100 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw approximately 5 watts when idle, but will not be disconnected from the AC line input 1110 if the connected output port 1120 has a threshold level of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain output ports 1120 may have a higher threshold level to accommodate high power devices, or may have a lower threshold level for low power devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold level is a learned level. The learned level may be set by the control circuit 1232 monitoring the load condition at the output port 1120 for a long time. Monitoring can generate a history of power levels over time, which can serve as a template for power demand. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 examines the history of power levels to determine whether the long-term low power demand is the time that the device connected to the output port 1120 is in the low power mode or the lowest power mode. do. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 releases the output port 1120 for a low power usage time period during which the low power matches the template. For example, the template may demonstrate that the device is in low power demand for 16 hours after withdrawing power through the output port 1120 for 8 hours.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 determines a coarse low power level of the electronic device connected to the output port 1120 and sets the threshold level as a percentage of the determined approximate low power level. For example, the control circuit 1232 may set the threshold level to about 100-105% of the approximate low power level demand. In yet another embodiment, the threshold demand may be set at about 100-110% or 110-120% or more of the approximate low level power demand. In addition, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the disclosed ranges.

In addition, the learned threshold level can be set manually. In an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to measure the current power level, in part by activating the reconnection device 634 for a period of time. For example, a user may hold the reconnect device 1234 for several seconds while the power strip 1100 operates in idle mode to measure the power level. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In one embodiment, the threshold level is set by adding an offset value to the measured power level. The offset value can be configured at various power levels. In addition, the offset value may be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured threshold is about 1 W and an offset value of about 0.5 W is used, the threshold is about 1.5 W. In an exemplary embodiment, the power strip 1100 is configured to operate in an ultra low idle mode when the load drops below about 1.5 W in this example. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more accurately by manually initiating power level measurements.

Although various functions and structures have been disclosed for an example power module configured to reduce or cancel power during idle mode by releasing the power input, a detailed illustration of an example power strip circuit is shown in the wall plate system as described with reference to FIG. Similar to its components and functions. Another understanding of the operation of an example power strip is available with reference to the detailed description of FIG. 9.

In addition to the embodiments described above, various other components may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to improve user control is to allow the user to select the operating mode of the outlet. In an exemplary embodiment, the power strip 1100 further includes a "green mode" switch to enable or disable "green" mode operation. The green mode switch may be a robust manual switch or may be a signal to logic controller 1302. The "green" mode operation is to release the output port 1120 from the AC line input 1110 when substantially no load is drawn at the output port 1120. The user can use the green mode switch to disable the green mode operation on various output ports as desired. For example, such added control may be desirable on an output that powers devices that need to be turned on momentarily, such as a device with a clock or a fax machine.

In one embodiment, the power strip 1100 includes an LED indicator that can indicate whether the output port is connected to a power line to draw load current. The LED indicator may indicate whether the output port is active, that is, whether power is drawn from the electronic device, and / or may indicate whether the output port has available power even if the electronic device is not connected. In addition, pulsed LEDs may be used to indicate when a power test is being performed or to indicate the "heartbeat" of sleep mode recharge.

In yet another embodiment, the power strip 1100 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display may be operated by the logic controller 1302 to indicate, for example, the load power being provided to the output port 1120 during operation time. The LCD may also provide information about power consumed or reduced by operating the power strip 1100 in " green " mode or not in " green " mode. For example, the LCD may display the sum of the total watts saved in a day or during a particular time period, such as the life of the power strip 1100.

Various embodiments may also be used to enhance the efficient use of individual output ports and / or power strips in the power strip. One such embodiment is the implementation of a photocell or other optical sensor monitored by logic controller 1302. The photocell determines whether light exists at the location of the power strip 1100, and the logic controller 1302 can use this determination to release the output port 1120 according to the ambient light condition. For example, the logic controller 1302 may release the power output port 1120 during the dark period. That is, the power strip may be turned off at night. Another example is a device that does not require power if it is located in a dark room such as a conference room that is not used in an office. In addition, the power output may be turned off when the ambient light condition exceeds a certain level, and the specific level may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In yet another embodiment, the power strip 1100 further includes an internal clock. The logic controller 1302 may use the internal clock to learn which time period at the output port 1120 indicates high power usage. This knowledge can be included to determine when the output port should have available power. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal clock has a crystal decision accuracy. In addition, the internal clock need not be set to the actual time. In addition, the internal clock can be used in combination with photocells for better power strip efficiency and / or accuracy.

The invention has been described above with reference to various exemplary embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, various example, embodiments may be implemented with other types of power strip circuits in addition to the circuits illustrated above. Such alternatives may be appropriately selected depending on the particular application or considering any number of factors related to the operation of the system. Also, such other changes or modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as expressed in the claims below.

Claims (61)

A power strip configured to reduce power during idle operation of an electronic device,
An alternating current (AC) line input comprising a plug and a cord configured to be connected to an external output;
A plurality of output ports configured to transmit power to the electronic device, the plurality of output ports being distinct from the external output ports; And
An output circuit configured to receive power from the AC line input and transmit power to at least one of the plurality of output ports, wherein the at least one output port is in response to drawing substantially no power; An output circuit for canceling transmission of power to said at least one output port
Power strip comprising a. The method of claim 1,
The output port circuit,
A current measurement system configured to monitor current from the AC line input, the current measurement system providing an output power level signal proportional to the load at the at least one output port;
A switch in communication with the current measurement system and the at least one output port; And
A control circuit configured to receive the output power level signal and control opening and closing of the switch to release the at least one output port from power
Power strip comprising a. The method of claim 2,
The control circuit is at least one of a latch circuit, an analog circuit, a state machine, and a microprocessor. The method of claim 2,
The switch is at least one of a relay, a latch relay, a TRIAC, and an optionally isolated TRIAC. The method of claim 2,
The control circuit is configured to receive a control signal to enable opening and closing of the switch. The method of claim 1,
And a green mode switch configured to select an operation mode of the at least one output port, wherein the operation mode is at least one of a normal mode and a green mode. The method of claim 1,
And at least one LED indicator configured to indicate whether the electronic device at the at least one output port is active. The method of claim 7, wherein
And the at least one LED indicator is further configured to blink if the outlet circuit is testing the at least one outlet. The method of claim 1,
Display data that is at least one of load power provided to the at least one output port, power saved by the at least one output port, power saved by the power strip, and power consumed by the power strip. A power strip further comprising a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) configured to. The method of claim 2,
And a reconnecting device configured to override the control circuit and rejoin the switch to the closed state. The method of claim 10,
The reconnect device is further configured to release the switch to an open state. The method of claim 10,
And the reconnect device is a push button. The method of claim 10,
The reconnect device is located remotely from the power strip. The method of claim 10,
And the reconnect device is controlled by at least one of an infrared signal and a radio frequency signal. The method of claim 10,
The reconnect device is further configured to override one control circuit to release one switch to an open state. 16. The method of claim 15,
And said reconnect device is further configured to release one switch in an open state. The method of claim 10,
The reconnect device is configured to override the plurality of control circuits and refasten the plurality of switches to a closed state. The method of claim 10,
The reconnecting device is further configured to release the plurality of switches to an open state. The method of claim 2,
And a power separator configured to electrically isolate the control circuit from the AC line input. The method of claim 1,
Substantially no power is approximately 0-1% of the typical maximum output load of the electronic device at the at least one output port. The method of claim 1,
Substantially no power is approximately 0-1% of the typical maximum output load of the electronic device at the at least one output port. The method of claim 1,
Substantially no power is approximately 0-1% of the typical maximum output load of the electronic device at the at least one output port. The method of claim 1,
And means for setting a period of a sleep mode duty cycle. The method of claim 1,
The output circuit is configured such that the parameters of the power strip can be changed by a user. As an output circuit of the power strip,
The output port circuitry is configured to receive power and to transmit power to the output port,
A current measurement system configured to provide an output signal proportional to the load of the output port;
A switch configured to release power from the output port; And
A control circuit configured to interpret the output signal to control the switch
Including;
And the switch releases power if the load at the output port is below a threshold level. The method of claim 25,
And a reconnect device coupled to the control circuit and configured to engage power to the output port. The method of claim 25,
The control circuit further comprises a power disconnect device configured to isolate the electrical component from a power input if the electrical component is in an idle mode. A power strip configured to effectively provide power to an electronic device,
At least one output port configured to provide power to the electronic device;
A switch having at least an open state and a closed state, the switch in communication with the at least one output port and an AC line input;
A current measurement system configured to monitor the current drawn by the at least one output port; And
Control circuitry configured to control the state of the switch
Including;
And if the current drawn by the at least one output port is below a threshold level, the control circuit sets the switch to an open state such that the at least one output port is effectively released from the AC line input. The method of claim 28,
And the control circuit tests the load state at the at least one output port by setting the switch to the closed state and determining whether the current drawn by the at least one output port is below a threshold level. The method of claim 28,
And the control circuit individually controls the at least one output port. The method of claim 28,
And the control circuit controls the at least one output port. The method of claim 28,
Said current measuring system being a current transducer. The method of claim 28,
And the current measurement system is at least one of a resistor with a differential amplifier, a current sense chip, and a Hall-effect element. The method of claim 28,
And a reconnect device configured to override the control circuit and refasten the switch to the closed state. The method of claim 28,
And a power separator configured to electrically isolate the control circuit from the AC line input. The method of claim 28,
The control circuit includes a current sensor and a logic controller. The method of claim 36,
And a photocell configured to indicate a level of ambient light surrounding the power strip, wherein the logic controller is configured to release the at least one output port based on the level of the ambient light. The method of claim 36,
Further includes an internal clock,
And the logic controller to determine the period of the at least one output port using the internal clock. The method of claim 28,
A power strip of said threshold level. The method of claim 39,
The predetermined level is about 1 watt or less. The method of claim 28,
And said threshold level is a learned level determined by prolonged monitoring of a load condition at said at least one output port. The method of claim 28,
The threshold level is set manually by operating the reconnection device,
The threshold level is based in part on measuring the power level during an idle mode of the power strip. The method of claim 28,
The threshold level is a percentage of the determined approximate low power level of the electronic device. The method of claim 43,
Wherein the determined percentage of approximate low power level ranges from at least one of approximately 100-105%, approximately 100-110%, and approximately 110-120%. The method of claim 28,
And said at least one output port comprises a first output port of a first threshold level and a second output port of a second threshold level, said first threshold level being different from said second threshold level. A method of enabling a low power consumption power strip,
Providing power to the electronic device at the power sphere;
Monitoring a load condition at the output port by a current measuring system;
Transmitting the load condition to a control circuit;
The control circuit controlling a state of a switch; And
Setting the state of the switch to open if the load condition is below the threshold level, and releasing the output port from the AC line input.
How to include. 47. The method of claim 46 wherein
A method further comprising a test method for a load condition at the output port, wherein the test method includes:
Setting the switch to a closed state; And
Determining whether the load condition is below the threshold level
How to include. 47. The method of claim 46 wherein
Overriding the control circuit using a reconnection device; And
Refastening the switch to the closed state
How to include more. 47. The method of claim 46 wherein
And electrically isolating the control circuit from the AC line input using a power separator. 47. The method of claim 46 wherein
Monitoring a load condition at the output port; And
Determining the threshold level based on monitoring of the load condition
How to include more. A power separation circuit configured to separate an electrical component from a power input if the electrical component is in an idle mode,
A network of transistors in communication with the power input and the electrical components,
The network of transistors includes a first transistor configured to isolate the power input and a second transistor configured to regulate a voltage for the first transistor,
And wherein said electrical component draws substantially no power when isolated from said power input by said power separation circuit. 52. The method of claim 51,
Power isolation circuitry configured to regulate the power input to a power level suitable for the electrical component. 52. The method of claim 51,
And the electrical component is a control circuit. 52. The method of claim 51,
And the power separation circuit is integrated into a power system. 52. The method of claim 51,
The electrical component comprises an energy store, and wherein the network of transistors periodically reconnects the electrical component to the power input to recharge the energy store. A wall plate system configured to reduce power during idle operation of an electronic device, the wall plate system being configured to be plugged into or inside the wall plate,
AC line inputs;
At least one output port of the wall plate system configured to transmit power to the electronic device; And
A wall plate circuit configured to receive power from the AC line input and to transmit power to the at least one output port, the at least one output port in response to the drawing of substantially no power. Wall plate circuit configured to release transmission of power to the output port
Including;
Wall plate system configured to be fixedly mounted on a wall. The method of claim 56, wherein
And the wall plate circuit is fastened behind a surface of the at least one outlet. The method of claim 56, wherein
And at least one additional outlet, wherein the wall plate circuit is fastened to a face of the at least one outlet. A power module configured as a component of an electronic device for monitoring power consumption during idle operation of an electronic device,
Power input of the power module;
At least one power output of the power module configured to transmit power to the electronic device; And
A power module circuit configured to receive power from the power input and transmit power to the at least one power input.
Including;
And the power module circuit releases transmitting power to the at least one power output in response to the at least one power output drawing substantially no power. The method of claim 59,
The power module is integrated with the electronic device. The method of claim 59,
And the power module is removable from the electronic device.

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