CN102124614A - Load condition controlled power circuit - Google Patents

Abstract

In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, a method and circuit for reducing power consumption of a power strip, wall outlet system, power module and the like is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a power circuit is configured for reducing or eliminating power during idle mode by disengaging an electrical connection from power input. An exemplary power circuit may be in communication with an AC power input, and may include a current transformer, a control circuit, and a switch. The current transformer secondary winding provides an output power level signal proportional to the outlet load. If behavior of the current transformer secondary winding indicates that the power circuit is drawing substantially no power from the AC power input, the switch facilitates disengaging of the current transformer primary circuit from the power circuit.

Description

Load Condition Controlled Power Circuit

technical field

The present invention relates to reducing power consumption in electronic devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods for separating power output from power input in a power module, wall plate system, and/or power strip when idle load conditions exist circuits and methods.

Background technique

The ever-increasing demand for low power consumption and environmentally friendly consumer devices has led to interest in power supply circuits using "green" technologies. For example, on average, a notebook power adapter is continuously "plugged in" for 67% of its time in idle mode. Even with power adapters that meet the specification requirement of consuming less than 0.5 watts/hour, this extended idle time can waste up to 3000 watt hours per adapter per year. The power loss is considerable when calculating the wasted energy of a large number of idle power adapters.

Every appliance and power adapter in a commercial or residential building will somehow plug into an outlet on a wall outlet strip. A standard wall outlet strip has two outlets, although there are variations from a single outlet to more than two outlets. In an office or home environment, computers, monitors, printers, scanners, and other electronic devices are connected to wall outlet panels. When not in use, these connected devices will typically remain on and enter a self-imposed idle mode that typically consumes less than 1 watt of power per device. Even though each device consumes standby power, the total power delivered by the wall outlet strip may be as much as the number of outlets used multiplied by the idle power, possibly 4 watts or more. Similarly, power strips are used to increase the number of AC outlets available from a single AC outlet. In an office or home environment, computers, monitors, printers, scanners, and other electronic devices are often connected to the same power strip. When not in use, these connected devices often remain on and enter a self-imposed idle mode that typically consumes less than 1 watt of power per device. Even though each device draws standby power, the total power delivered by the patch panel may be as much as the number of outlets used multiplied by the idle power, possibly 6 watts or more. This increase in wasted idle power could be reduced or eliminated if a wall strip or power strip could learn or be programmed to sense the idle condition of each outlet and turn off that outlet if an idle condition exists.

Contents of the invention

According to various aspects of the present invention, methods and circuits are provided for reducing power consumption in power modules, wall strip systems, power strips, etc. during idle conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, the load condition controlled power module may be configured to reduce or eliminate power in idle mode by decoupling at least one power output from the power input. A power module may be connected to one or more power outputs and may provide an alternating current (AC) power input to one or more power outputs. A power module may include a current measurement system, control circuitry and switches. The current measurement system provides an output power level signal proportional to the load at the power output. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch facilitates separating the power input from the AC power input if the behavior of the current measurement system indicates at least one power output draws substantially no power from the AC power input.

In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system is configured to reduce or eliminate power in idle mode by decoupling at least one outlet from the power input. A wall panel system may include one or more outlets and one or more wall panel circuits through which the AC power input is connected to the outlet. The wall board circuit may include current measurement systems, control circuits and switches. A current measurement circuit provides an output power signal through the switch that is proportional to the load at the receptacle. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch facilitates disconnecting the power input from at least one outlet if the behavior of the current measurement circuit indicates that such outlet draws substantially no power from the AC power input.

The wall strip system also includes a standard wall strip and circuitry to reduce power in idle mode. The wall plate circuit can be housed in or behind a standard wall plate. In another embodiment, the wall strip system may be a wall strip adapter configured to conform to and connect to a standard wall strip. The wall plate adapter can be connected to a standard wall plate by plugging into any one or more of the sockets of the standard wall plate, and the electronic device can be plugged into the wall plate adapter instead of the standard wall plate.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power strip is configured to reduce or eliminate power in idle mode by decoupling at least one outlet from the power input. The power strip may include one or more outlets and one or more outlet circuits through which the AC power input is connected to the outlet(s). The receptacle circuitry may include current transformers, control circuitry, and switches. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the circuit transformer provides an output power level signal proportional to the load at the receptacle. In an exemplary embodiment, the switch facilitates separating the primary circuit of the current transformer from at least one outlet if the behavior of the current transformer indicates that such outlet draws substantially no power from the AC power input.

Description of drawings

A more complete understanding of the invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, and in which:

1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled power supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 shows a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled power supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

3 shows a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled power supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

4 shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary control circuit used in an exemplary load condition controlled power module circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

5A shows a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5B shows another block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet strip system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

5C illustrates yet another block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet system;

6 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 7 shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary control circuit used in an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet strip system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

8 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of an example control circuit used in an example load condition controlled wall outlet strip system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 10 shows a diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled wall outlet system as an adaptive device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

11A shows a block diagram of an exemplary load condition controlled patch panel;

11B shows another block diagram of an example load condition controlled patch panel according to an example embodiment;

Figure 12 shows a block diagram of an example load condition controlled patch panel according to an example embodiment;

Figure 13 shows a circuit diagram of an example control circuit for use within an example load condition controlled panel according to an example embodiment; and

Figure 14 shows a block diagram of an example load condition controlled patch panel according to an example embodiment.

Detailed ways

The invention may be described in terms of various functional components and various processing steps. It should be appreciated that such functional components may be realized by any number of hardware or structural components configured to perform the specified functions. For example, the present invention can employ various integrated components such as buffers, current mirrors, and logic containing various electrical devices (e.g., resistors, transistors, capacitors, diodes, etc. whose values can be appropriately configured for various purposes) device. Additionally, the present invention may be practiced in any integrated circuit application. However, for purposes of illustration only, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described herein in connection with sensing and control systems and methods for use with terminal block circuits, power modules, receptacles, and the like. Also, it should be noted that although various components are adapted to be coupled or connected to other components in the exemplary circuit, such connections and couplings may be through direct connections between the components or through other components and devices interposed therebetween.

power module

Various embodiments can relate to power modules configured to reduce or eliminate power during idle modes. In an exemplary embodiment, the circuitry used to implement the power module is integrated into or part of a larger device and controls the power input to the larger device based on various load conditions. In another exemplary embodiment, the power module is a removable component or a fixed component that is part of the electronic device. A power module may be a printed circuit board, potted block, integrated circuit, MEMS device, or any other structure configured for implementation within a larger device or system. In another exemplary embodiment, the power module may be located in a housing configured to facilitate simple installation 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 eliminate power during idle mode by splitting the power input is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 1 , a power module 100 includes a power input 110 , a power output 120 and a power module circuit 130 . Accordingly, the power module 100 may comprise any system configuration in which: a power input is received, power is provided at a power output, and circuitry separates the power provided to the power output to reduce power consumption.

In an exemplary embodiment, power input 110 and power output 120 are 3-pin or 2-pin plugs or sockets. In another exemplary embodiment, power input 110 and power output 120 include flying leads for connection to various electrical components. Other connections can be made through terminal strips, spade connectors, or fixed connectors mounted to the printed circuit board. However, power input 110 and power output 120 may be suitably configured in any other input and/or output configuration. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the power input 110 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source.

In the exemplary embodiment, power module 100 includes power input 110 communicatively coupled to power module circuitry 130 , which in turn is communicatively coupled to power output 120 , as shown in FIG. 2 . In one embodiment, the power output 120 may also be connected or otherwise coupled to ground and neutral. The power module circuit 130 includes a current measurement system 231 , a control circuit 232 and a switch 233 . In the exemplary embodiment and for purposes of illustration, current measurement system 231 includes a current transformer 231 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding. However, the current measurement system 231 may also include resistors with differential amplifiers, current sense chips, Hall effect devices, or any other suitable component configured to measure current in a manner now known or later devised. Current transformer 231 provides an output power level signal proportional to the load at power output 120 to control circuit 232 . Also, a switch 233 connects the primary circuit of the current transformer 231 to the power output 120 .

In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 includes or consists of at least one of the following components: a latch circuit, an analog circuit, a state machine, and a microprocessor. In one embodiment, the control circuit 232 monitors the condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 231 and controls the operation of the switch 233 . Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, control circuit 232 receives a low frequency or DC signal from current transformer 231 . A 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 condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 231 and controlling the operation of the switch 233 . In an exemplary embodiment and referring to FIG. 3 , the control circuit 232 includes a current sensor 301 and a logic control unit 302 . Current sensor 301 monitors the output of a current measurement system (eg, the secondary winding of current transformer 231 ), which is an AC voltage proportional to the load current. Furthermore, the current sensor 301 provides a signal to the logic control unit 302 . In one embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current monitored by the current sensor 301 . In another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current monitored by the current sensor 301 .

In an exemplary embodiment, logic control unit 302 is powered by an energy storage capacitor. The logic control unit 302 simply connects the storage capacitor to the power input 110 to continuously power the logic control unit 302 . In another embodiment, logic control unit 302 is powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also known as housekeeping or hotel power; it is used as a low auxiliary power source. In one embodiment, auxiliary power comes from power input 110 . For further details of similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Patent Application 61/052,939, entitled "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power," which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In an exemplary embodiment, logic control unit 302 is a microprocessor capable of being programmed before and after integrating power module 100 in an electronic device. In one embodiment, a user can connect to the logic control unit 302 and customize the parameters of the power module 100 . For example, a user may set the threshold level and the sleep mode duty cycle of the power module 100 . Data from the power supply module 100, eg, regarding historical power consumption and/or saved energy may be sent. The two-way data transmission between the power module 100 and the display device can be realized through wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals or other similar signals. Data transfer can also be accomplished using a wired connection such as a USB connection or other similar connections.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 also includes a power circuit breaker 303 in communication with the logic control circuit 302 . The power circuit breaker 303 is configured to isolate the logic control unit 302 from the power input 110 and reduce power loss. Although isolated, the control logic unit 302 is powered by a storage capacitor or other energy source and the control logic unit 302 enters a sleep mode. If the storage capacitor reaches a low power level, the power circuit breaker 303 is configured to reconnect the logic control unit 302 to the power input 110 to charge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, the power circuit breaker 303 is capable of reducing power loss from the microampere leakage current range to the nanoampere leakage current range.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 receives a control signal imposed on the power input 110 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar protocol signals. The control circuit 232 may receive control signals from the coupled power input 110 or any other suitable device configured to couple the power input 110 to the control circuit 232 through the secondary winding of the current transformer 321 as now known or later devised. The control signal can come from inside the power module 100 or can come from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or at least a control signal with a frequency different from that of the power input 100 . In an exemplary embodiment, control circuit 232 interprets a high frequency control signal to connect or disconnect switch 233 . In another embodiment, an external controller may send a signal to place the power module 100 in an "on" or "off" state.

In an exemplary embodiment, switch 233 facilitates or controls the separation of the primary circuit of current transformer 231 from power output 120 if the behavior of the secondary winding of current transformer 231 indicates that power output 120 is not substantially drawn from power input 110 . In other words, switch 233 facilitates the separation of power from power output 120 . In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of current transformer 231 is monitored for an AC waveform at the AC line frequency of power input 110 that has the same load current passing through the primary circuit of current transformer 231 to power output 120 proportional to the RMS voltage. In another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to produce a DC signal before being received by the control circuit 232 . The DC signal is proportional to the load current to the power output 120 through the primary circuit of the current transformer 231 .

In one embodiment, the phrase "substantially no power" is intended to mean that the output power is in the range of about 0-1% of typical maximum output load. In the exemplary embodiment, switch 233 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of current transformer 231 to power output 120 and includes a switching mechanism that substantially separates the primary circuit of current transformer 231 from power output 120 . Switch 233 may comprise at least one of a relay, a latching relay, a TRIAC, and an optionally isolated TRIAC.

By substantially disabling the primary circuitry of the current transformer 231, power dissipation at the power output 120 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling power output 120 is intended to indicate that the output signal of the secondary winding of current transformer 231 is interpreted by control circuit 232 as low enough that it is suitable for opening switch 233 and removing power from power output 120 .

In another exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the power module circuit 130 further includes a reconnection device 234 configured to close the switch 233 through the logic control unit 203 . Closure of switch 233 reconnects power output 120 to the primary circuit of current transformer 231 and power input 110 . In an exemplary embodiment, reconnection device 234 includes a switching device that can be closed and opened in various ways. For example, reconnection device 234 may comprise a manually operable button. In one embodiment, the button is located on the surface of the power module 100 . In another embodiment, the reconnection device 234 is activated remotely by a signal propagating through the power input 110, which the control circuit interprets as an on/off control. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection device 234 is controlled by wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals or other similar signals.

In an exemplary embodiment and referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the power module circuit 130 also includes a reconnect device memory stater 304 . The reconnect device memory state device 304 is configured to indicate whether the reconnect device 234 has been activated recently so that the logic control circuit 302 can determine the circuit status when powered on. In an exemplary embodiment, reconnect device memory stater 304 includes a capacitor C5 that charges when reconnect device 234 is activated. Logic control unit 302 may then measure the voltage on capacitor C5 as an indication of whether reconnection device 234 is activated. In an exemplary embodiment, the reconnect device memory stater 304 provides a digital readout to the PB1 input of the logic control unit 302 . If sufficient voltage is present at capacitor C5, the PB1 input reads "1". If there is insufficient voltage at capacitor C5, the PB1 input reads "0". The determination of whether the voltage is sufficient depends in part on the ratio of resistors R6 and R7 and can be interpreted by the logic control unit 302 as known to those skilled in the art. The capacitor C5 is used to store the state of the reconnection device 234 until the voltage of the capacitor C5 can be read by the logic control unit 302 .

According to another exemplary embodiment, switch 233 operates automatically on a periodic basis. For example, switch 233 may automatically reconnect after a few minutes or tens of minutes or a smaller or longer period. In one embodiment, switch 233 automatically reconnects frequently enough that a battery-operated device connected to power module 100 will not completely discharge internal battery power during periods of no power at the input to the connected device. After power output 120 is reconnected, in an exemplary embodiment, power module circuitry 130 tests or evaluates load conditions, such as power demand at power output 120 . If the load condition on the power output 120 increases above the previously measured level, the power output 120 will remain connected to the primary circuit of the current transformer 231 until the load condition returns to a selected or predetermined threshold level indicating "low load" . In other words, if the power demand at the power output 120 increases, power is provided to the power output 120 until the power demand falls and a defined idle mode is indicated. In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load condition at reconnection is made after a selected period of time has elapsed, eg, after a number of seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In one embodiment, the load conditions may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes so that short bursts of high load are averaged out. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the power module 100 includes a master reconnect that can reconnect all power outputs 120 to the power input 110 .

In an exemplary method of operation, the power module 100 closes the switch 233 upon initial power supply, allowing power to flow to the power output 120 . When the load condition at the power output 120 is below a threshold level, the control circuit 232 opens the switch 233 to form an open circuit and isolate the power output 120 from the input power signal. This separation effectively eliminates any idle power loss at the power output 120 . In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level, such as approximately 1 watt or less of power flowing into power output 120 .

In an exemplary embodiment, different power outputs 120 may have different fixed threshold levels such that devices having higher power levels at idle may be usefully connected to power module 100 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw about 5W of power when idle, but never disconnect from the power input 110 if the connected power output 120 has a threshold of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain power outputs 120 may have higher threshold levels to accommodate high power devices, or lower threshold levels for lower power devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold level is a learned level. The level of learning may be established by the control circuit 232 monitoring the load conditions at the power output 120 over time. A history of power levels over time is established by monitoring and can be used as a power demand template. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 examines the history of power levels and determines whether the longer period of low power demand is a time when the device connected to the power output 120 is in a low, or lowest, power mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 disconnects the power output 120 during the low power usage time when the low power period matches the template. For example, the template may state that the device draws power through power output 120 for 8 hours, followed by 16 hours of low power demand.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 232 determines an approximate low power level of the electronic device connected at the power output 120 and sets the threshold level as a percentage of the determined approximate low power level. For example, control circuitry 232 may set the threshold level to approximately 100-105% of the low power level requirements. In another embodiment, the threshold demand may be set to approximately 100-110% or 110-120% of the low level power demand. Additionally, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the disclosed ranges.

Alternatively, the threshold level for learning can be set manually. According to an exemplary embodiment, the threshold is set in part by activating the reconnection device 234 for a certain period of time and measuring the current power level. For example, a user may press and hold the reconnect device 234 for a few seconds while the power module 100 is operating in idle mode and measure the power level. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to the measured power level plus an offset value. This offset value can be configured at various power levels. Also, the offset value can be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured value is about 1W, and an offset value of about 0.5W is used, the threshold value is about 1.5W. In an exemplary embodiment, the power module 100 in this instance is configured to operate in an ultra-low idle mode if the load drops to about 1.5W. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more precisely by manually initiating the power value measurement.

Having disclosed various functions and structures for an exemplary power module configured to reduce or eliminate power during idle mode by splitting power input, details of exemplary power module 400 may be provided according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. schematic diagram. Referring to FIG. 4 , in an exemplary embodiment of a power module 400 , the power module circuit 130 includes a current transformer 231 , a current sensor 301 , a logic control unit 302 , a power circuit breaker 303 , a reconnect device memory state device 304 and a switch 233 .

In one embodiment, the current transformer 231 and current sensor 301 combine to measure the current from the power input 110 and convert the current into a proportional DC voltage that can be read by the logic control unit 302 . Also, switch 233 may comprise a latching relay, such as relay coil K1 , which provides hard-connection/disconnection of power input 110 to power output 120 upon receipt of a command from logic control unit 302 . Switch 233 alternates between opening and closing contacts. Also, the switch 233 maintains its position until reset by the logic control unit 302 and will maintain the position without consuming any power in the relay coil K1.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic control unit 302 includes a microcontroller that receives a current input from the power input line, controls the state of the switch 233 and reads or estimates the state or position of the contact of the reconnection device 234 and the switch 233 . In addition, the logic control unit 302 learns and stores power profiles of electronic devices connected to the power output 120 . In another exemplary embodiment, the power module circuit 130 further includes a reconnect device 234 and a reconnect device memory state device 304 . The reconnect 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 power output 120 immediately requires full power. The reconnect device memory stater 304 is configured to indicate to the logic control unit 302 whether the reconnect device 234 has been activated recently.

In the exemplary embodiment, the power circuit breaker 303 includes a network of transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 used with zener diodes Z1, Z2 to regulate the power input 110 to a safe level suitable for the logic control unit 302 and from the power input 110 isolates logic control unit 302 . In another embodiment, the power circuit breaker 302 includes a relay in addition to or instead of the transistor of the prior embodiment.

Initial connection of the power module 400 involves connecting the power module 400 to a power source which may be AC or DC. In an exemplary approach, when power module 400 is initially plugged into a power source, all circuits of power module circuitry 130 are inactive and switch 233 is in the last position or state set by logic control unit 302 . This initial condition may or may not provide power to power output 120 . When all circuits are inactive, no current flows to the power module circuit 130 . This is due to the isolation provided by the power circuit breaker 303 and the reconnect device 234 in the normal off position. In the exemplary embodiment, power circuit breaker 303 includes transistors Q1 , Q2 , Q3 and capacitor C3 . In this state, only leakage current will flow through transistors Q1, Q2 and the leakage current will be on the order of tens of nanoamps. Also, the current transformer 231 provides dielectric isolation from the primary side to the secondary side so that only a small amount of leakage current due to the inter-winding capacitance of the current transformer 231 flows.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 4, in an exemplary embodiment and for purposes of illustration, the user may reconnect the circuit using reconnect 234 to establish Current path for Zener diode Z3. Diode D1 is used to half-wave rectify the AC line to halve the peak-to-peak voltage. Zener diode Z1 also reduces the voltage of diode D1 to, for example, about 20 volts. Zener diode Z3 and resistor R4 form a current limiting Zener regulator that provides the appropriate DC voltage at the VDD input to logic control unit 302 when reconnect device 234 is supported. In addition, capacitor C2 smoothes the DC signal across Zener diode Z3 and provides storage during contact bounce of reconnect device 234 . Capacitor C2 is sized to provide sufficient storage during startup time of logic control unit 302 and capacitor C2 in combination with resistor R4 provides a fast rising edge on the VDD input to properly reset logic control unit 302 . Also, diode D5 isolates capacitor C2 from capacitor C5 so that the rise time constant of capacitor C2 and resistor R4 is not affected by the large capacitance of capacitor CS. When the capacitor CS supplies power to the logic control unit 302, the current of the capacitor CS passes through the diode D5. Diode D6 is used to isolate the voltage on capacitor C2 when reconnect device 234 is released. This allows the voltage stored on capacitor C5 by reconnection device 234 during the closing time to be preserved during opening of reconnection device 234 and to inform logic control unit 302 of the disconnection condition.

In an exemplary approach, if reconnect device 234 is activated for a few milliseconds, logic control unit 302 is configured to initialize and start immediately to provide its own power before reconnect device 234 is released. This is achieved from the voltage doubler outputs VD1-VD3 and ZG1 of the logic control unit 302 . First output ZG1 is driven high to turn on transistor Q2. When transistor Q2 is turned on, a current path is established through resistor R3 and zener diode Z2, providing the regulated voltage at the drain of transistor Q1. This regulated voltage is similar to the voltage generated by Zener diode Z3 and is suitable for the VDD input of the logic control unit 302 . Second, after a few microseconds after the voltage on the Zener diode Z2 stabilizes, the outputs VD1-VD3 of the logic control unit 302 start switching to provide the gate drive signal to turn on the transistor Q1. Outputs VD1-VD3 and the signal generated by the assembly including capacitor C3, transistor Q3, capacitor C4, diode D3, and diode D4 produce a voltage at the gate of transistor Q1 that is twice the voltage on the VDD input of logic control unit 302. times. This voltage multiplier hard turns on transistor Q1. Once transistor Q1 is turned on, the voltage at Zener diode Z2 charges capacitor CS. In the exemplary embodiment, capacitor CS is a large storage capacitor used to power logic control unit 302 when reconnect device 234 is not activated. After a few milliseconds of charging capacitor CS, outputs VD1-VD3 and ZG1 return to rest and transistors Q1 and Q2 are turned off. In this embodiment, logic control unit 302 drains the stored charge in capacitor CS and does not draw power from power input 110 . When the reconnect device 234 is no longer active, the capacitor CS will continue to power the logic control unit 302 .

If the power output 120 is idle and drawing substantially no power, the logic control unit 302 can disengage from drawing power and enter a "sleep" mode. In an exemplary approach, and referring to FIG. 4 , when the logic control unit 302 is operating from energy stored in capacitor CS, a timing function is implemented in the logic control unit 302 , using capacitor C6 to perform the timing function. Capacitor C6 is temporarily charged by the CAPTIME output of logic control unit 302 and the discharge rate of capacitor C6 over time will simulate the decay of the voltage on capacitor CS. Once the capacitor C6 voltage at input CAPTIME reaches a low level, logic control unit 302 sets the state of outputs VD1-VD3 and ZG1 to charge capacitor CS again from the AC line. This process is repeated over and over so that power is never interrupted to the logic control unit 302 . Depending on the size of capacitor CS, the charging process takes only a few milliseconds or less to operate.

Also, in the exemplary method, when the logic control unit 302 is not busy charging the capacitor CS, switching the relay K1, or measuring the power drawn from the power output 120, the logic control unit 302 operates in a deep sleep mode, which stops all Or essentially all internal activity and waiting for capacitor C6 to discharge. This sleep mode consumes very little power and allows the charge on storage capacitor CS to persist for many seconds. If the reconnect device 234 is activated in this sleep mode, the capacitor C5 will be charged and the logic control unit 302 will resume normal operation and set or reset the relay K1. Alternatively, if the capacitor C6 voltage drops too low, the logic control unit 302 will charge the capacitor CS again and then return to sleep mode.

When the electronic device is in idle mode, the power module 100 can continue to monitor changes in the power drawn by the electronic device. In an exemplary approach, while logic control unit 302 is continuously going in and out of sleep mode to repower itself, logic control unit 302 will also periodically test the power drawn from power output 120 . The period of the power test is much longer than the period during which capacitor CS is charged and, for example, may only be tested once every ten minutes or longer. According to an exemplary method, there are at least three possible outcomes from the power test: 1) the device is working and the switch is not in the standby condition, 2) the device is not working but the switch is not in the standby condition, or 3) the switch is in the standby condition.

For results when the device is active and the switch is not in the standby condition, the relay K1 was originally set to deliver power to the power output 120 and the power test showed that the connected electronics were drawing an appropriate load current. The "appropriate load" may be defined by some fixed value programmed into the logic control unit 302, or it may be the result of multiple power tests and be a typical load current for the electronic device. Here the power test result will be interpreted as a normal condition and the logic control unit 302 will return to the sleep mode cycle until another period of time, such as ten minutes has elapsed, to perform the power test again. In another exemplary embodiment, the duration of the sleep mode cycle is determined by the user. For example, the user can set the sleep mode duration to be 1 minute, 2 minutes or 5 minutes, and this can be done using a dial, number input, button, keypad, or any other suitable means now known or hereafter devised.

For results when the device is not operating but the switch is not in the standby condition, relay K1 was previously set to deliver power to the power output 120 and the power test showed that the connected device draws negligible load current. The "negligible load" may be some fixed value programmed into the logic control unit 302, or it may be the result of multiple power tests, and may be a typical minimum value for this electronic device. In either case, the action taken by the logic control unit 302 will be to activate the relay coil K1 by setting the relay K1 to an open condition using the outputs RELAY1-RELAY2 of the logic control unit 302 . The state of relay K1 is determined by logic control unit 302 testing the presence of resistor R5 at REALY3, since logic control unit 302 may know the previous state of relay K1, eg from the de-energized state.

As a result when the switch is in the standby condition, ie, relay K1 is set to remove power from the power output 120, the logic control unit 302 must set relay K1 to the closed condition to allow AC power to be applied to the power output. In the exemplary method, once relay K1 is set, a period of time is allowed to elapse before the power test is completed. This delay allows the electronics attached to the power output 120 to initialize and enter a stable mode of operation. Power measurements can now be taken over a period of time to determine whether the electronic device is in a low power state or a high power state. If it is judged to be a high power state, the relay K1 remains set. If a low power state is judged, relay K1 is reset to an open condition and power is removed from power output 120 again. Also, the logic control unit 302 will start the sleep mode cycle again and perform a power test after a predetermined period of time, eg, every 10 minutes.

If a user wishes to operate a device connected to power output 120 with the power output turned off, in an exemplary embodiment, activating reconnect device 234 will immediately wake logic control unit 302 from sleep mode. Since the wakeup is from the activation of the reconnect device 234 and not due to a power test or capacitor CS charging, the logic control unit 302 will immediately set the relay K1 to the closed position to power the electronics connected to the power output 120 .

In addition to the above-described embodiments, various other elements may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to enhance user control is to allow the user to select the mode of operation of the power output. In the exemplary embodiment, power module 100 also includes a "green mode" switch that enables or disables "green" mode operation. The green mode switch can be a hard, manual switch or it can be a signal to the logic control unit 302 . “Green” mode operation is when the power output 120 is disconnected from the power input 110 when substantially no load is drawn at the power output 120 . A green mode switch can be used by the user to disable the green mode of operation at various power outputs if desired. For example, such increased control may be required over the power output to power devices with clocks or devices such as facsimile machines that need to be constantly on.

In one embodiment, the power module 100 includes an LED indicator that can indicate whether the power output is connected to the power line and drawing load current. The LED indicator may indicate whether the power output is active, ie, power is being drawn by the electronic device and/or the power output has available power, even if the electronic device is not connected. Alternatively, a pulse LED can be used to show when a power test is complete or to indicate the "heartbeat" of hibernation mode charging.

In another embodiment, the power module 100 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display can be operated by the logic control unit 302 to indicate that load power is being provided to the power output 120 during operating hours, for example. The LCD can also provide information about the power saved or consumed by operating the power module 100 while in and out of "green" mode. For example, the LCD may display the total wattage saved over a certain period of time, such as over the life of the power module 100 or in a day.

Various embodiments may be used to enhance efficient use of a power module and/or individual power outputs within a power module. One such embodiment is the implementation of photocells or other optical sensors monitored by logic control unit 302 . The optoelectronic element determines whether there is light at the location of the power module 100 and the logic control unit 302 can use this determination to separate the power output 120 according to ambient light conditions. For example, logic control unit 302 may split power output 120 during dark periods. In other words, the power output of the power module can be turned off at night. Another example is a device that would not require power if located in a dark room, such as an uncommon conference room in an office. Also, the power output may be turned off when ambient light conditions exceed a certain level, which may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In another embodiment, the power module 100 further includes an internal clock. Logic control unit 302 may use this internal clock to learn which time periods indicate high power usage of power output 120 . 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 precision. Also, the internal clock does not need to be set to real time. Also, an internal clock can be used with optoelectronics to further improve power module efficiency and/or accuracy.

Wall Mount Outlet Plate System

Various embodiments may also relate to a wall strip system configured to reduce or eliminate power during idle mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall strip system and associated circuitry are configured to couple or engage with a wall strip having one or more outlets. For example, the wall plate system can be mounted inside or behind a standard wall plate. This embodiment can be added to an existing standard wall outlet strip in a residential or commercial location. In another exemplary embodiment, the wall strip system includes a standard wall strip and circuitry to reduce power during idle mode. In yet another exemplary embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 10 for illustrative purposes, a wall strip system as used herein may be defined as a wall strip adapter configured to conform to and connect to a standard Wall socket plate. The wall-strip adapter can connect to a standard wall-strip by plugging into one or more of the sockets of the standard wall-strip. In this embodiment, the electronic device can be plugged into a wall strip adapter rather than a standard wall strip. It is contemplated that other configurations for coupling and/or engaging a wall outlet plate system and an electrical outlet are within the scope of various embodiments of the invention.

According to various aspects of the present invention, a wall outlet strip system configured to reduce or eliminate power during an idle mode by decoupling power input from at least one outlet is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 5A , a wall strip system 500 includes two or more outlets 520 and a wall strip circuit 530 . In another exemplary embodiment, wall strip system 500 includes a single receptacle 520 and a single wall strip circuit 530 . In yet another exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 5B , a wall plate system 500 includes at least one receptacle 520 coupled to a wall plate circuit 530 and at least one receptacle 520 connected directly to an AC line input 510 . In another exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 5C , a wall strip system 500 includes two or more outlets 520 and two or more wall strip circuits 530 , each wall strip circuit configured to control Power input to each outlet 520 . Thus, the wall outlet plate system 500 may encompass any system configuration in which power is received, power is provided at the outlet, and the circuit splits the power provided to the outlet to reduce power consumption.

In an exemplary embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 6 , wall plate system 500 includes AC line input 510 communicatively coupled to wall plate circuitry 530 , which in turn is communicatively coupled to receptacle 520 . Receptacle 520 is also connected or coupled to ground and neutral. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, the AC line input 510 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source. The wall board circuit 530 includes a current measurement system 631 , a control circuit 632 and a switch 633 . In the exemplary embodiment and for purposes of illustration, current measurement system 631 includes a current transformer 631 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding. However, the current measurement circuit 632 may also include resistors with differential amplifiers, current sense chips, Hall effect devices, or any other suitable component configured to measure current in a manner now known or later devised. Current transformer 631 provides an output power signal proportional to the load at outlet 520 . Also, a switch 633 connects the primary circuit of the current transformer 631 to the outlet 520 .

In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 includes at least one or a combination of the following components: a latch circuit, an analog circuit, a state machine, and a microprocessor. In one embodiment, the control circuit 632 monitors the condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 631 and controls the operation of the switch 633 . Also, in the exemplary embodiment, control circuit 632 receives a low frequency or DC signal from current transformer 631 . A 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 by the load at the outlet 520 .

The control circuit 632 may include various structures for monitoring the condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 631 and controlling the operation of the switch 633 . In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 7 , the control circuit 632 includes a current sensor 701 and a logic control unit 702 . Current sensor 701 monitors the output of a current measurement system, eg, the secondary winding of current transformer 231 , which is an AC voltage proportional to the load current. Furthermore, the current sensor 701 provides a signal to the logic control unit 702 . In one embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current monitored by the current sensor 701 . In another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current monitored by the current sensor 701 . In another exemplary embodiment, and with temporary reference to FIG. 8 , the wall strip circuit 530 of the wall strip system includes a logic control unit 702 that communicates with more than one current transformer 631 and more than one A switch 633 communicates and controls them.

In an exemplary embodiment, logic control unit 702 is powered by a storage capacitor. The logic control unit 702 temporarily connects the storage capacitor to continuously power the logic control unit 702 . In another embodiment, logic control unit 702 may be powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also known as housekeeping or hotel power; it is used as a low auxiliary power supply. In one embodiment, auxiliary power comes from the AC line input 510 . For further details of similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Patent Application 61/052,939, entitled "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power," which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic control unit 702 is a microprocessor capable of being programmed into the electronic device before and after the integrated wall plate system 500 . In one embodiment, a user is able to connect to the logic control unit 702 and customize the parameters of the wall plate system 500 . For example, a user may set a threshold level and a sleep mode duty cycle for the wall strip system 500 . Data from the wall plate system 500 may be sent, eg, regarding historical power consumption and/or energy savings. The two-way data transmission between the wall plate system 500 and the display device can be accomplished through wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals or other similar signals. Data transfer can also be accomplished using a wired connection such as a USB connection or other similar connections.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 also includes a power circuit breaker 703 in communication with the logic control circuit 702 . The power circuit breaker 703 is configured to isolate the logic control unit 702 from the AC line input 510 and reduce power loss. Although isolated, the logic control unit 702 is powered by the storage capacitor or other energy source and the logic control unit 702 enters a sleep mode. If the storage capacitor reaches a low power level, the power circuit breaker 703 is configured to reconnect the logic control unit 702 to the AC line input 510 to charge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, the power circuit breaker 703 is capable of reducing power loss from a leakage range of a few microamps to a leakage range of a few nanoamps.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 receives a control signal imposed on the AC line input 510 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar signals. The control circuit 632 may receive a control signal from the coupled AC line input 510 or any other suitable device now known or hereafter designed to be configured to couple the AC line input 510 to the control circuit 632 through the secondary winding of the current transformer 631 . The control signal may come from within the wall strip system 500 or may come from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or at least one control signal having a different frequency than the AC line input 510 . In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 interprets the high frequency control signal to engage or disengage the switch 633 . In another embodiment, an external controller may transmit a signal to place the wall plate system 500 in an "on" or "off" condition.

In an exemplary embodiment, switch 633 causes or controls the separation of the primary circuit of current transformer 631 from outlet 520 if the behavior of the secondary winding of current transformer 631 indicates that outlet 520 draws substantially no power from AC line input 510 . In other words, switch 633 facilitates disconnection of power from outlet 520 . In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of current transformer 631 is monitored to monitor the AC waveform at the AC line frequency, where the AC waveform has an RMS voltage proportional to the load current passing through the primary circuit of current transformer 631 to outlet 520 . In another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to produce a DC signal before being received by the control circuit 632 . The DC signal is proportional to the load current through the primary circuit of current transformer 631 to outlet 520 .

In one embodiment, the phrase "substantially no power" is intended to mean that the output power is in the range of about 0-1% of typical maximum output load. In the exemplary embodiment, switch 633 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of current transformer 631 to outlet 520 and includes a switching mechanism that substantially separates the primary circuit of current transformer 631 from outlet 520 . Switch 633 may comprise at least one of a relay, a latching relay, a TRIAC, and optionally an isolated TRIAC or other switching mechanism for isolation.

By essentially disabling the primary circuitry of current transformer 631, power consumption at outlet 520 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling outlet 520 is intended to indicate that the output signal of the secondary winding of current transformer 631 has been interpreted by control circuit 632 as low enough that it is appropriate to open switch 633 and remove power from outlet 520 .

In another exemplary embodiment, the wall socket board circuit 530 further includes a reconnection device 634 configured to enable the switch 633 to be closed by the logic control unit 702 . Closure of switch 633 reconnects receptacle 520 to the primary circuit of current transformer 631 and AC line input 510 . In an exemplary embodiment, reconnection device 634 includes a switching device that can be closed and opened in various ways. For example, the reconnection device 634 may comprise a manually operable button. In one embodiment, the button is located on the surface of the wall plate system 500 . In another exemplary embodiment, reconnection device 634 is a wall switch remote from wall plate system 500 to allow a user to reactivate power to the outlets of wall plate system 500 . In another embodiment, the reconnection device 634 functions remotely by propagating a signal through the AC line input 510 that is interpreted by the control circuit 632 as an on/off control. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection circuit 634 is controlled by wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals, or other similar signals.

According to another exemplary embodiment, switch 633 operates automatically on a periodic basis. For example, switch 633 may automatically reconnect after a few minutes or tens of minutes or a smaller or longer period. In one embodiment, switch 633 automatically reconnects frequently enough that a battery-operated device connected to wall plate system 500 will not fully discharge the internal battery during periods of no power input to the connected device. After reconnection of receptacle 520 , in an exemplary embodiment, wall board circuit 530 tests or evaluates load conditions, such as power demand at receptacle 520 . If the load condition on outlet 520 increases above the previously measured level, outlet 520 will remain connected to the primary circuit of current transformer 631 until the load condition returns to a selected or predetermined threshold level indicating "low load". In other words, if the power demand at outlet 520 increases, power is provided to outlet 520 until the power demand falls and the defined idle mode is indicated. In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load condition at reconnection is made after a selected period of time has elapsed, eg, after a number of seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In another embodiment, the load conditions may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes such that short bursts of high load are averaged out. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the wall outlet plate system 500 includes a master reconnection device that can re-engage all outlets 520 to the AC line input 510 .

In an exemplary method of operation, upon initial startup, wall plate system 500 closes switch 633 , allowing power to flow into outlet 520 . When the load condition at outlet 520 is below a threshold level, control circuit 632 opens switch 633 to create an open circuit and disconnect outlet 520 from the AC power signal. This separation effectively eliminates any idle power loss from receptacle 520 . In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level of power flowing into receptacle 520, eg, about 1 watt or less.

In an exemplary embodiment, different outlets 520 may have different fixed threshold levels so that devices with higher power levels when idle can be efficiently connected to wall strip system 500 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw about 5W of power when idle, but never disconnect from the AC line input 510 if the connected outlet 520 has a threshold level of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain outlets 520 may have a higher threshold rating to accommodate high powered devices, or a lower threshold rating for lower powered devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold level is a learned value. This learned value may be established by the control circuit 632 monitoring the load conditions at the outlet 520 over time. A history of power levels over time is established through monitoring and can be used as a power demand template. In an exemplary embodiment, control circuitry 632 examines the history of power levels and determines whether long-term power demands are those times when a device connected to outlet 520 is in a low, or lowest, power mode. In an exemplary embodiment, control circuit 632 disconnects receptacle 520 during low power usage times when the low power period matches the template. For example, the template may show that the device draws power through outlet 520 for 8 hours, followed by 16 hours of low power demand.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 632 determines the approximate low power level of the electronic device connected at the outlet 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 approximately 100-105% of the low power level requirements. In another embodiment, the threshold demand may be set to approximately 100-110% or 110-120% of the low level power demand or higher. Additionally, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the disclosed ranges.

Alternatively, the threshold level for learning can be set manually. According to an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set in part by activating the reconnection device 634 for a certain period of time and measuring the current power level. For example, when the wall plate system 500 is operating in idle mode, the user can hold the reconnect device 634 for a few seconds and measure the power level. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In one exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to the measured power level plus an offset value. Offset values can be configured at various power levels. Also, the offset value can be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured threshold is about 1W, and an offset value of about 0.5W is used, the threshold is about 1.5W. In an exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 in this example is configured to operate in an ultra-low idle mode if the load drops below about 1.5W. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more precisely by manually initiating power level measurements.

Having disclosed various functions and structures of an exemplary wall plate system configured to reduce or eliminate power during idle mode by splitting the power input, an exemplary wall plate system may be provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention detailed schematic diagram. In an exemplary embodiment and referring to FIG. 9 , a wall board system 900 includes a wall board circuit 530 that includes a current transformer 631 , a current sensor 701 , a logic control unit 702 , a power circuit breaker 703 and switch 633.

In one embodiment, the current transformer 631 and current sensor 701 combine to measure the current from the AC line input 510 and convert the current into a proportional DC voltage that can be read by the logic control unit 702 . Also, the switch 633 may comprise a latching relay that provides a hard connect/disconnect of the AC line input 510 to the outlet 520 upon receipt of a command from the logic control unit 702 . Switch 633 alternates between opening and closing contacts. Also, the switch 633 holds its position until reset by the logic control unit 702 and will hold the position without consuming any power in the relay coil K1.

In an exemplary embodiment and similar to the logic control unit 302, the logic control unit 702 includes a microcontroller that receives an input of the current in the AC line, controls the state of the switch 633 and reads or evaluates the reconnect device 634 The state or position of the contact with the switch 633. In addition, logic control unit 702 learns and stores power profiles of electronic devices connected to outlet 520 . In another exemplary embodiment, the wall strip circuit 530 also includes a reconnection device 634 that is activated when the wall strip circuit 530 is first connected to the AC line input 510 or when full power is immediately required at the outlet 520. Connector 634 is activated to connect receptacle 520.

In an exemplary embodiment, the power circuit breaker 703 comprises a network of transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 for regulating the AC line input 510 to a safe level suitable for the logic control unit 702 and isolating the logic control unit 702 from the AC line input 510 . In another embodiment, the power circuit breaker 703 includes a relay in addition to, or in place of, the transistors of the existing embodiments.

Initial connection of the wall plate system 900 involves connecting the wall plate system 900 to an AC power source. In the exemplary method, when wall strip system 900 is initially plugged into a power source, all circuits of wall strip circuitry 530 are inactive and switch 633 is in the last position set by logic control unit 702 . This initial condition may or may not provide power to outlet 520 . When all circuits are inactive, no current flows to the wall strip circuit 530 . This is due to the isolation provided by the power circuit breaker 703 and the reconnect device 634 in the normal off position. In the exemplary embodiment, power circuit breaker 703 includes transistors Q1, Q2, Q3 and capacitor C3. In this state, only leakage current will flow through transistors Q1, Q2 and the leakage current will be on the order of tens of nanoamperes. Also, the current transformer 631 provides dielectric isolation from the primary side to the secondary side such that only a small amount of leakage current flows due to the inter-winding capacitance of the current transformer 631 .

Continuing to refer to FIG. 9 , in an exemplary embodiment and for purposes of illustration, the user may reconnect the circuit using reconnect device 634 to establish the current path. Diode D1 is used to half-wave rectify the AC line to halve the peak-to-peak voltage. Zener diode Z1 also reduces the voltage across diode D1 to, for example, about 20 volts. Zener diode Z3 and resistor R4 form a current limiting Zener regulator that, when supporting reconnect device 634 , provides the appropriate DC voltage at the VDD input to logic control unit 702 . Additionally, capacitor C2 smoothes the DC signal across Zener diode Z3 and provides storage during contact bounce of reconnect device 634 . Capacitor C2 is sized to provide sufficient storage during start-up time of logic control unit 702, and the combination of capacitor C2 and resistor R4 provides a fast rising edge on the VDD input to properly reset logic control unit 702. Also, diode D5 isolates capacitor C2 from capacitor C5 such that the rise time constant of capacitor C2 and resistor R4 is substantially unaffected by the large capacitance of capacitor CS. When the capacitor C3 supplies power to the logic control unit 302, the current of the capacitor CS passes through the diode D5.

In an exemplary approach, if the reconnect device 634 is activated for a few milliseconds, the logic control unit 702 is configured to initialize and start immediately to provide its own power before the reconnect device 634 is released. Similar to the reconnection operation associated with logic control unit 302 , this is accomplished from voltage doubler outputs VD1 - VD3 and output ZG1 of logic control unit 702 . If the outlet 520 is idle and drawing substantially no power, the logic control unit 702 can detach from drawing power and enter a "sleep" mode. In an exemplary embodiment, and with further reference to FIG. 9 , when logic control unit 702 operates on energy stored in capacitor CS, a timing function is implemented in logic control unit 302 , using capacitor C5 to perform the timing function. Capacitor C5 is temporarily charged by the CAPTIME output of logic control unit 702 and the discharge rate of capacitor C5 over time will simulate the voltage decay on capacitor CS. Once the capacitor C5 voltage at input CAPTIME reaches a low level, the logic control unit 702 will set the state of outputs VD1-VD3 and output ZG1 to charge capacitor CS again from the AC line. This process is repeated over and over so that there is no interruption of power to the logic control unit 702 . Depending on the size of capacitor CS, this charging process takes only a few milliseconds to operate.

Also, in the exemplary method, when logic control unit 702 is not busy charging capacitor CS, switching relay K1, or measuring power drawn from receptacle 520, logic control unit 702 operates in a deep sleep mode, stopping all, or substantially All internal behavior and waiting for capacitor C5 to discharge. This sleep mode consumes very little power and allows the charge on storage capacitor CS to persist for many seconds. If the reconnect device 634 is activated during sleep mode, the logic control unit 702 will resume normal operation and set or reset relay K1. Alternatively, if the capacitor C5 voltage drops too low, the logic control unit 702 will charge the capacitor CS again and then return to sleep mode.

While the electronic device is in idle mode, the wall strip system 500 may continue to monitor for changes in the power drawn by the electronic device. In an exemplary approach, logic control unit 702 will also periodically test the power drawn from outlet 520 while logic control unit 702 is continuously going in and out of sleep mode to repower itself. The period of the power test is much longer than the period during which capacitor CS is charged and, for example, may only be tested once every ten minutes or longer. According to an exemplary method, there are at least three possible outcomes from the power test results: 1) the device is working and the switch is not in the standby condition, 2) the device is not working but the switch is not in the standby condition, or 3) the switch is in the standby condition. The characteristics and behavior associated with each of these possible outcomes are similar to the possible outcomes described with reference to the power module 100 .

If a user wishes to operate a device connected to outlet 520 with the outlet turned off, in an exemplary embodiment, activating reconnection device 634 will immediately wake logic control unit 702 from sleep mode. Since the wakeup is from the activation of the reconnection device 634 and not from a power test or capacitor CS charging, the logic control unit 702 will immediately set the relay K1 to the closed position to power the electronic device connected to the outlet 520 .

In addition to the above-described embodiments, various other elements may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to enhance user control is to allow the user to select the mode of operation of the outlet. In the exemplary embodiment, the wall plate system 500 also includes a "green mode" switch that enables or disables "green" mode operation. The green mode switch can be a hard manual switch or it can be a signal to the logic control unit 302 . “Green” mode operation is when substantially no load is drawn at the outlet 520 , disconnecting the outlet 520 from the AC line output 510 . Users can use the green mode switch to disable the green mode of operation on different outlets when needed. For example, such increased control may be desired on receptacles that power devices that have a clock or that need to be constantly on, such as a fax machine.

In one embodiment, the wall outlet strip system 500 includes LED indicators that can indicate whether an outlet is connected to a power line and drawing load current. The LED indicator can indicate whether the outlet is active, ie, power is being drawn by the electronic device and/or the outlet has power available even if no electronic device is connected. Alternatively, a pulse LED can be used to show when a power test is complete or to indicate the "heartbeat" of hibernation mode charging.

In another embodiment, the wall plate system 500 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display can be operated by the logic control unit 702 to indicate the load power supplied to the outlet 520 during operating hours. The LCD may also provide information regarding the power saved or power consumed by operating the wall plate system 500 when in and out of "green" mode. For example, the LCD may display the total wattage saved over a certain period of time, such as over the life of the wall strip system 500 or in a day.

Various embodiments may be used to enhance the efficient use of a wall panel system and/or individual outlets in a wall panel system. One such embodiment is the implementation of a photocell or other optical sensor monitored by logic control unit 702 . The optoelectronic element determines whether there is light at the location of the wall socket plate system 500 and the logic control unit 702 can use this determination to isolate the socket 520 according to the ambient light conditions. For example, logic control unit 702 may disconnect receptacle 520 during dark periods. In other words, the outlets of the wall outlet plate system can be turned off at night. Another example is a device that would not require power if located in a dark room, such as an uncommon conference room in an office. Also, the power output may be turned off when ambient light conditions exceed a certain level, which may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In another embodiment, the wall plate system 500 also includes an internal clock. Logic control unit 702 may use an internal clock to learn which time periods show high power usage at outlet 520 . This knowledge can be included to determine when an outlet should have power available. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal clock has quartz crystal precision. Also, the internal clock does not need to be set to real time. Also, an internal clock can be used with optoelectronics to further increase wall strip system efficiency and/or accuracy.

Wiring board

According to various aspects of the present invention, a power strip configured to reduce or eliminate power during an idle mode by decoupling power input from at least one outlet is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 11A , a patch panel 1100 includes two or more receptacles 1120 and two or more receptacle circuits 1130 . In another exemplary embodiment (not shown), patch panel 1100 includes a single receptacle 1120 and a single receptacle circuit 1130 . In yet another exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 11B , power strip 1100 includes at least one outlet 1120 coupled to outlet circuit 1130 and at least one outlet 1120 directly connected to AC line input 1110 .

In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 12 , power strip 1100 includes AC line input 1110 connected to receptacle circuit 1130 , which in turn is connected to receptacle 1120 . The socket circuit 1130 includes a current measurement system 1231 , a control circuit 1232 and a switch 1233 . In the exemplary embodiment, for purposes of illustration, current measurement system 1231 includes a current transformer 1231 having a primary circuit and a secondary winding. However, the current measurement system 1231 may also include resistors with differential amplifiers, current sense chips, Hall effect devices, or any other suitable components configured to measure current in a manner now known or later devised. Current transformer 1231 provides an output power level signal proportional to the load at outlet 1120 . Also, a switch 1233 connects the primary circuit of the current transformer 1231 to the outlet 1120 .

Also, in one embodiment, the AC line input 1110 is a standard 3-wire grounded plug and cord that connects to the body of the terminal block 1110 . However, the AC line input 1110 may be suitably configured in any AC power input configuration or replaced with any other input power configuration. AC line input 1110 is connected in parallel to a plurality of similar outlet circuits 1130 located between AC line input 1110 and outlets 1-N 1120. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, the AC line input 1110 may be connected to a 110 volt or 220 volt power source.

In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 may include at least one or a combination of the following components: a latch circuit, an analog circuit, a state machine, and a microprocessor. In one embodiment, the control circuit 1232 monitors the condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 1231 and controls the operation of the switch 1233 . Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, control circuit 1232 receives a low frequency or DC signal from current transformer 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 by the load at the outlet 1120 .

The control circuit 1232 may include various structures for monitoring the condition of the secondary winding of the current transformer 1231 and controlling the operation of the switch 1233 . In an exemplary embodiment, and referring to FIG. 13 , the control circuit 1232 includes a current sensor 1301 and a logic control unit 1302 . Current sensor 1301 monitors the output of a current measurement system (eg, the secondary winding of current transformer 1231 ), which is an AC voltage proportional to the load current. Furthermore, the current sensor 1301 provides a signal to the logic control unit 1302 . In one embodiment, the signal may be a DC voltage proportional to the current through the current sensor 1301 . In another embodiment, the signal may be a current proportional to the current through the current sensor 1301 . In another exemplary embodiment, and with temporary reference to FIG. 14 , the outlet circuit 1130 of the terminal block includes a logic control unit 1302 in communication with more than one current transformer 1231 and more than one switch 1233 and control them.

In an exemplary embodiment, logic control unit 1302 is powered by an energy storage capacitor. The logic control unit 1302 temporarily connects the storage capacitor to the AC line input 1110 to continuously power the logic control unit 1302 . In another embodiment, the logic control unit 1302 may be powered by a battery or other energy source. This energy source is also known as housekeeping or hotel power; it is used as a low auxiliary power supply. In one embodiment, the auxiliary power comes from the AC line input 1110 . For further details of similar current monitoring, see US Provisional Patent Application 61/052,939, entitled "Circuit and Method for Ultra-Low Idle Power," which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In an exemplary embodiment, the logic control unit 1302 is a microprocessor capable of being programmed into the electronic device before and after the integrated terminal block 1100 . In one embodiment, a user can connect to the logic control unit 1302 and customize the parameters of the patch panel 1100 . For example, a user may set threshold levels and a sleep mode duty cycle for patch panel 1100 . Data from the patch panel 1100, eg, regarding historical power consumption and/or saved energy, may be sent. The two-way data transmission between the wiring board 1100 and the display device can be realized through wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals or other similar signals. Data transfer can be accomplished using a wired connection such as a USB connection or other similar connection.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 may further include a power circuit breaker 1303 in communication with the logic control circuit 1302 . Power circuit breaker 1303 is configured to isolate logic control unit 1302 from AC line input 1110 and reduce power loss. Although isolated, the control logic unit 1302 is powered by a storage capacitor or other energy source and the control logic unit 1302 enters a sleep mode. If the storage capacitor reaches a low power level, the power circuit breaker 1303 is configured to reconnect the logic control unit 1302 to the AC line input 1110 to charge the storage capacitor. In an exemplary embodiment, the power circuit breaker 1303 is capable of reducing power loss from a leakage range of a few microamps to a leakage range of a few nanoamps.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 receives a control signal applied to the AC line input 1110 by another controller. The control signal can be, for example, an X10 control protocol or other similar signals. Control circuit 1232 may receive control signals from coupled AC line input 1110 or any other suitable device now known or later devised configured to couple AC line input 1110 to control circuit 1232 through the secondary winding of current transformer 1231 . The control signal may come from inside the patch panel 1100 or may come from an external controller. The control signal may be a high frequency control signal or at least one control signal having a frequency different from that of the AC line input 1110 . In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 interprets the control signal to engage or disengage the switch 1233 . In another embodiment, an external controller may send a signal to place the patch panel 1100 in an "on" or "off" condition.

In an exemplary embodiment, switch 1233 causes or controls the separation of the primary circuit of current transformer 1231 from outlet 1120 if the behavior of the secondary winding of current transformer 1231 indicates that outlet 1120 draws substantially no power from AC line input 1110 . In other words, switch 1233 facilitates disconnection of power from outlet 1120 . In an exemplary embodiment, the secondary winding of the current transformer 1231 is monitored for an AC waveform having an RMS voltage proportional to the load current through the current transformer 1231 to the outlet 1120 at the AC line frequency. In another embodiment, the AC waveform is rectified and filtered to produce 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 transformer 1231 to the outlet 1120 .

In one embodiment, the phrase "substantially no power" is intended to mean that the output power is in the range of about 0-1% of typical maximum output load. In an exemplary embodiment, switch 1233 is configured to control the connection of the primary circuit of current transformer 1231 to outlet 1120 and includes a switching mechanism that substantially separates the primary circuit of current transformer 1231 from outlet 1120 . Switch 1233 may comprise at least one of a relay, a latching relay, a TRIAC, and an optionally isolated TRIAC.

By essentially disabling the primary circuitry of current transformer 1231, power consumption at outlet 1120 is reduced. In one embodiment, substantially disabling receptacle 1120 is intended to indicate that the output signal of the secondary winding of current transformer 1231 has been interpreted by control circuit 1232 as low enough that it is suitable for opening switch 1233 and removing power from receptacle 1120 .

In another exemplary embodiment, the socket circuit 1130 further includes a reconnection device 1234 configured to close the switch 1233 through the logic control unit 1302 . Closure of switch 1233 reconnects receptacle 1120 to the primary circuit of current transformer 1231 and AC line input 1110 . In an exemplary embodiment, the reconnection device 1234 includes a switching device that is closed and opened in various ways. For example, reconnection device 1234 may include a manually operable button. In one embodiment, the button is located adjacent to receptacle 1120 on terminal block 1100 , eg, on the same surface of terminal block 1100 as receptacle 1120 , or on a side of terminal block 1100 adjacent to receptacle 1120 . In another embodiment, the reconnection device 1234 is disposed remotely from the power strip 1110 to allow a user to re-enable power to the receptacles of the power strip 1100 without having direct contact with the power strip 1100 . In another embodiment, the reconnection device 1234 functions remotely by propagating a signal through the AC line input 1110 that is interpreted by the control circuit 1232 as an on/off signal. In yet another embodiment, the reconnection circuit 1234 is controlled by wireless signals such as infrared signals, radio frequency signals or other similar signals.

According to another exemplary embodiment, the switch 1233 operates automatically on a periodic basis. For example, switch 1233 may automatically reconnect after a few minutes or tens of minutes or a smaller or longer period. In one embodiment, switch 1233 automatically reconnects frequently enough that a battery-operated device connected to terminal block 1100 will not fully discharge the internal battery during periods of no power at the input to the connected device. After the receptacle 1120 is reconnected, in an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle circuit 1130 tests or evaluates the load condition. If the load condition on the outlet 1120 increases above the previously measured level, the outlet 1120 will remain connected to the primary circuit of the current transformer 1231 until the load condition has returned to a selected or predetermined threshold level indicating "low load" . In an exemplary embodiment, the determination of the load condition at reconnection is made after a selected period of time has elapsed, eg, after a number of seconds or minutes, such that the current inrush or initialization event is ignored. In one embodiment, load conditions may be averaged over a selected period of seconds or minutes such that short bursts of high load are averaged out. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the power strip 1100 contains a master reconnect that can reconnect all outlets 1120 to the AC line input 1110 .

In an exemplary method of operation, upon initial power supply, the power strip 1100 closes the switch 1233 so that power flows into the receptacle 1120 . When the load condition at outlet 1120 is below a threshold level, control circuit 1232 opens switch 1233 to create an open circuit and disconnect outlet 1120 from the AC power signal. This separation effectively eliminates any idle power loss from outlet 1120 . In one embodiment, the threshold level is a predetermined level of power flowing into outlet 1120, eg, about 1 watt or less.

In an exemplary embodiment, different outlets 1120 may have different fixed threshold levels so that devices with higher power levels when idle can be efficiently connected to patch panel 1100 for power management. For example, a large device may still draw about 5W of power when idle, but never disconnect from the AC line input 1110 when the connected outlet 1120 has a threshold of about 1 watt. In various embodiments, certain outlets 1120 may have a higher threshold rating to accommodate high powered devices, or a lower threshold rating for lower powered devices.

In another embodiment, the threshold is a learned value. The learned value may be established by the control circuit 1232 monitoring the load condition at the outlet 1120 over time. A history of power levels over time is established through monitoring and can be used as a power demand template. In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 examines the history of power levels and determines whether the long-term power demand is a time when a device connected to the outlet 1120 is in a low, or lowest power mode. In an exemplary embodiment, control circuit 1232 disconnects receptacle 1120 during low power usage times when the low power period matches the template. For example, a template may show that the device draws power through outlet 1120 for 8 hours, followed by 16 hours of low power demand.

In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 1232 determines the approximate low power level of the electronic device connected to the outlet 1120, and sets the threshold level as a predetermined percentage of the approximate low power level. For example, the control circuit 1232 may set the threshold to approximately 100-105% of the low power level requirements. In another embodiment, the threshold may be set to approximately 100-110% or 110-120% of the low power level requirement or higher. Additionally, the low power level percentage range may be any variation or combination of the disclosed ranges.

Alternatively, the threshold level for learning can be set manually. According to an exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set in part by activating the reconnect device 1234 for a certain period of time and measuring the current power level. For example, when patch panel 1100 is operating in idle mode, a user may hold reconnect device 1234 for a few seconds and measure the power level. The measured power level is used to set the power threshold level. In one exemplary embodiment, the threshold level is set to the measured power level plus an offset value. This offset value can be configured at various power levels. Also, this offset value can be increased or decreased to suit a particular configuration. For example, if the measured threshold is about 1W, and an offset value of about 0.5W is used, the threshold level is about 1.5W. In an exemplary embodiment, the patch panel 1100 is configured to operate in an ultra-low idle mode if the load drops to about 1.5W in this example. Advantageously, the threshold level is set more precisely by manually initiating power level measurements.

Disclosed various functions and structures have been disclosed of an exemplary power strip configured to reduce or eliminate power during idle mode by splitting the power input, a detailed schematic diagram of the exemplary power strip circuit is similar to the wall outlet described with reference to FIG. 9 Components and functions of the board system. Operation of the exemplary patch panel can be further understood with reference to the detailed description of FIG. 9 .

In addition to the above-described embodiments, various other elements may be implemented to enhance control and user experience. One way to enhance user control is to allow the user to select the mode of operation of the outlet. In the exemplary embodiment, patch panel 1100 also includes a "green mode" switch that enables or disables "green" mode operation. The green mode switch may be a hard manual switch or it may be a signal to the logic control unit 302 . “Green” mode operation is when substantially no load is drawn at the outlet 1120 , disconnecting the outlet 1120 from the AC line input 1110 . Users can use the green mode switch to disable the green mode of operation on different outlets when needed. For example, such increased control may be desired on receptacles that power devices that have a clock or that need to be constantly on, such as a fax machine.

In one embodiment, the power strip 1100 includes LED indicators that can indicate whether an outlet is connected to a power line and drawing load current. The LED indicator can indicate whether the outlet is active, ie, power is being drawn by the electronic device and/or the outlet has power available even if the electronic device is not connected. Alternatively, a pulse LED can be used to show when a power test is complete or to indicate the "heartbeat" of hibernation mode charging.

In another embodiment, the terminal block 1100 includes at least one LCD display. The LCD display can be operated by the logic control unit 1302 to indicate load power being provided to the outlet 1120 during operating hours, for example. The LCD can also provide information about the power saved or consumed by operating the power strip 1100 when in and out of "green" mode. For example, the LCD may display the total wattage saved over a certain period of time, such as over the life of patch panel 1100 or in a day.

Various embodiments may be used to enhance the efficient use of a patch panel and/or individual receptacles in a patch panel. One such embodiment is the implementation of a photocell or other optical sensor monitored by logic control unit 1302 . The photoelectric element judges whether there is light at the position of the wiring board 1100 and the logic control unit 1302 can use the judgment result to separate the socket 1120 according to the ambient light condition. For example, logic control unit 1302 may split power output 1120 during dark periods. In other words, the patch panel can be turned off at night. Another example is a device that would not require power if located in a dark room, such as an uncommon conference room in an office. Also, the power output may be turned off when ambient light conditions exceed a certain level, which may be predetermined or determined by the user.

In another embodiment, the wiring board 1100 also includes an internal clock. Logic control unit 1302 may use an internal clock to learn which periods of time exhibit high power usage at outlet 1120 . This knowledge can be included to determine when an outlet should have power available. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal clock has quartz crystal precision. Also, the internal clock does not need to be set to real time. Also, an internal clock can be used with optoelectronics to further increase the efficiency and/or accuracy of the patch panel.

The invention has been described with reference to various exemplary embodiments. However, those skilled in the art appreciate that changes and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, various exemplary embodiments may be implemented with other types of terminal block circuits in addition to the circuits described above. These alternative embodiments may be selected as appropriate depending on the particular application or consideration of any number of factors related to system operation. Moreover, these and other changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as expressed in the following claims.

Claims (59)

1. terminal block is configured to reduce the power during the clear operation of electronic installation, and this terminal block comprises:

Exchange the input of (AC) line, comprise the plug and the electric wire that are configured to be connected to external receptacle;

A plurality of sockets are configured to the electronic installation transmitted power, and described external receptacle is different from described a plurality of socket; And

Socket circuit, be configured to from described AC line input received power and to described a plurality of sockets at least one socket transmitted power wherein, wherein said socket circuit does not draw power and described at least one the socket emitted power in branch descriscent substantially in response to described at least one socket.

2. terminal block according to claim 1, described socket circuit comprises:

Current measurement system is configured to monitor the electric current from described AC line input, and wherein said current measurement system provides and the proportional output power levels signal of the load at described at least one socket place;

Switch is communicated by letter with described at least one socket with described current measurement system; And

Control circuit, be configured to the disconnection that receives described output power levels signal and control described switch with closed to separate described at least one socket from power supply.

3. terminal block according to claim 2, wherein said control circuit be latch cicuit, analog circuit, state machine and microprocessor wherein one of at least.

4. terminal block according to claim 2, wherein said switch be relay, latch relay, TRIAC and optional isolation TRIAC wherein one of at least.

5. terminal block according to claim 2, wherein said control circuit are configured to receive disconnection and the closure of control signal to impel described switch.

6. terminal block according to claim 1 also comprises green mode switch, is configured to select the operator scheme of described at least one socket, wherein said operator scheme be normal mode and green pattern wherein one of at least.

7. whether terminal block according to claim 1 also comprises at least one LED indicating device, be configured to indicate the described electronic installation at described at least one socket place movable.

8. terminal block according to claim 7 is being tested described at least one socket if wherein said at least one LED indicating device also is configured to described socket circuit, then flicker.

9. terminal block according to claim 1, also comprise the LCD (LCD) that is configured to video data, wherein said data provide power that the bearing power of described at least one socket, power that described at least one socket is saved, power that described terminal block is saved and described terminal block consume wherein one of at least.

10. terminal block according to claim 2 also comprises and reconnects device, and this reconnects device and is configured to make described control circuit invalid and make described switch join closure state again to.

11. terminal block according to claim 10 wherein saidly reconnects device also to be configured to separate described switch is off-state.

12. terminal block according to claim 10, the wherein said device that reconnects is a button.

13. terminal block according to claim 10, the wherein said device that reconnects is provided with away from described terminal block.

14. terminal block according to claim 10, the wherein said device that reconnects is by one of at least control of infrared signal and radiofrequency signal.

15. terminal block according to claim 10, the wherein said device that reconnects is configured to make single control circuit invalid and make single switch be in closure state again.

16. terminal block according to claim 15 wherein saidly reconnects device also to be configured to separate single switch is off-state.

17. terminal block according to claim 10, the wherein said device that reconnects is configured to make a plurality of control circuits invalid and make a plurality of switches be in closure state again.

18. terminal block according to claim 10 wherein saidly reconnects device also to be configured to separate a plurality of switches is off-state.

19. terminal block according to claim 2 also comprises circuit breaker, this circuit breaker is configured to isolate described control circuit from described AC line input electricity.

20. terminal block according to claim 1, wherein not having power substantially is about 0-1% of typical maximum output loading of the described electronic installation at described at least one socket place.

23. terminal block according to claim 1 also comprises the device that is used to be provided with the park mode duty duration.

24. terminal block according to claim 1, wherein said socket circuit are arranged such that the parameter of described terminal block can be by user's modification.

25. the socket circuit in the terminal block, described socket circuit are configured to received power and to the socket transmitted power, and described socket circuit comprises:

Current measurement system is configured to provide the proportional output signal of load with described socket place;

Switch is configured to from described socket separative power; And

Control circuit is configured to understand described output signal and controls described switch;

When being lower than threshold levels, the load of wherein said switch at described socket place separate power.

26. socket circuit according to claim 25 also comprises the device that reconnects that is connected to described control circuit, the wherein said device that reconnects is configured to join power to described socket again.

27. socket circuit according to claim 25, wherein said control circuit also comprises the power tripper, isolates described electric assembly if this power tripper is configured to that electric assembly is in idle pulley from the power input.

28. a terminal block, being configured to provides power to electronic installation efficiently, and described terminal block comprises:

At least one socket, being configured to provides power to described electronic installation;

Switch has off-state and closure state at least, wherein said switch and described at least one socket with exchange (AC) line input communication;

Current measurement system is configured to monitor the electric current that described at least one socket draws; And

Control circuit is configured to control the state of described switch;

If the described electric current that wherein described at least one socket draws is lower than threshold levels, the described switch of then described control circuit is set to off-state, makes described at least one socket separate effectively from described AC line input.

29. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said control circuit is set to closure state by described switch and judges that whether the electric current that described at least one socket draws is lower than described threshold levels, tests the load state at described at least one socket place.

30. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said control circuit are individually controlled described at least one socket.

31. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said control circuit are controlled a plurality of described at least one socket.

32. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said current measurement system is a current transformer.

33. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said current measurement system be have differential amplifier resistor, current sense chip and Hall effect device one of at least.

34. terminal block according to claim 28 also comprises and reconnects device, this reconnects device and is configured to make described control circuit invalid and make described switch join closure state again to.

35. terminal block according to claim 28 also comprises circuit breaker, this circuit breaker is configured to isolate described control circuit from described AC line input electricity.

36. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said control circuit comprises current sensor and logic control element.

37. terminal block according to claim 36, also comprise photoelectric cell, this photoelectric cell is configured to indicate the grade of the surround lighting around the described terminal block, and wherein said logic control element is configured to described ranking score based on surround lighting from described at least one socket.

38. terminal block according to claim 36 also comprises internal clocking, wherein said logic control element uses described internal clocking to determine the operating period of described at least one socket.

39. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said threshold levels are the grades of being scheduled to.

40. according to the described terminal block of claim 39, wherein said predetermine level is about 1 watt or littler.

41. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said threshold levels are the grades of the study definite by the load state at described at least one the socket place of long-term monitoring.

42. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said threshold levels reconnects device by activation and manually is provided with, and wherein said threshold levels is based in part on the power level during the idle pulley of measuring described terminal block.

43. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said threshold levels are the percentage of the determined approximate low-power level of described electronic installation.

44. according to the described terminal block of claim 43, wherein the described percentage of determined approximate low-power level is wherein at least one scope of about 100-105%, about 100-110% and about 110-120%.

45. terminal block according to claim 28, wherein said at least one socket comprise first socket with first threshold grade and second socket with second threshold levels, wherein said first threshold grade is different from described second threshold levels.

46. a method of impelling terminal block to have low-power consumption, described method comprises:

Electronic installation to the socket place provides power;

Monitor the load state at described socket place at the current measurement system place;

Send described load state to control circuit;

State at described control circuit place control switch; And

If described load state is lower than threshold levels, then described on off state is set to disconnect, and separates described socket from the input of AC line.

47. according to the described method of claim 46, also comprise the method for testing of the load state at described socket place, described method of testing comprises:

Described switch is set to closure state; And

Determine whether described load state is lower than described threshold levels.

48., also comprise according to the described method of claim 46:

Use reconnects device makes described control circuit invalid; And

Make described switch join closure state again to.

49., also comprise and use circuit breaker to isolate described control circuit from described AC line input electricity according to the described method of claim 46.

50., also comprise according to the described method of claim 46:

Monitor the load state at described socket place; And

Determine described threshold levels based on the monitoring of described load state.

51. a power open circuit, if be configured to that electric assembly is in idle pulley then isolate described electric assembly from the power input, described power open circuit comprises:

Transistor network is with described power input and described electric component communication;

Described transistor network comprises:

The first transistor is configured to disconnect described power input; And

Transistor seconds is configured to regulate the voltage to described the first transistor;

Wherein when by described power open circuit when the input of described power is isolated, described electric assembly does not draw power substantially.

52. according to the described power open circuit of claim 51, wherein said power open circuit also is configured to regulate described power and is input as the suitable power levels that is used for described electric assembly.

53. according to the described power open circuit of claim 51, wherein said electric assembly is a control circuit.

54. according to the described power open circuit of claim 51, wherein said power open circuit is integrated in the power-supply system.

55. according to the described power open circuit of claim 51, wherein said electric assembly comprises energy storage unit, and wherein said transistor network periodically reconnect described electric assembly to the input of described power with to described energy storage unit charging.

56. a wall plate system is configured to reduce the power during the clear operation of electronic installation, described wall plate system configuration becomes to be in the wall plate or is inserted in the wall plate, and described wall plate system comprises:

Exchange the input of (AC) line;

At least one socket of described wall plate system is configured to the electronic installation transmitted power; And

The wall plate circuit, be configured to from described AC line input received power and to described at least one socket transmitted power, and described wall plate circuit arrangement one-tenth, separates by at least one socket the power that sends to described at least one socket in response to not drawing power substantially;

Wherein said wall plate system configuration becomes to be fixedly installed on the wall.

57. according to the described wall plate of claim 56 system, after wherein said wall plate circuit is bonded on the surface of described at least one socket.

58., also comprise the surface that at least one attaching socket and wherein said wall plate circuit join described at least one socket to according to the described wall plate of claim 56 system.

59. a power model is configured to assembly as the electronic installation power consumption during with the clear operation that reduces described electronic installation, described power model comprises:

The power input of described power model;

At least one power output of described power model is configured to the electronic installation transmitted power; And

Power module circuit is configured to from described power input received power and to described at least one power output transmitted power;

Wherein said power module circuit is not drawn power and the power of described at least one the power output transmission in branch descriscent substantially in response to described at least one power output.

60. according to the described power model of claim 59, wherein said power model is integrated in the described electronic installation.

61. according to the described power model of claim 59, wherein said power model can remove from described electronic installation.

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