초록 ▼

An apparatus for and method of evenly distributing an electrical load across an n-phase power distribution network. The current in each incoming phase and in each branch circuit is measured by a current sensor. The outputs of the current sensors are monitored by a processor. Associated with each bra

An apparatus for and method of evenly distributing an electrical load across an n-phase power distribution network. The current in each incoming phase and in each branch circuit is measured by a current sensor. The outputs of the current sensors are monitored by a processor. Associated with each branch circuit is a multi-pole switch and a conventional circuit breaker. Each switch is able of connecting its corresponding branch circuit to any incoming phase, and of disconnecting the branch circuit from all n phases. The processor periodically monitors currents flowing through each incoming phase and, based on branch circuit load conditions, reprograms the switches to keep the branch circuit loads evenly distributed across all three incoming phases. A further feature provides the pre-programmed, processor-controlled, changing of load connections, for example as a function of time-of-day; and to provide a "priority list" for dropping loads in case of an overloaded power-line condition, and for subsequently reconnecting loads. A further feature provides telephone communication between the processor and the electric company, including the capability of transmitting information to the electric company. The capability of the electric company to make inquiries of the processor, e.g., concerning loading of each of the phases. The capability of the electric company to issue commands to the processor, e.g., to connect or to disconnect loads, and the capability of the electric company to remotely alter the programming the processor via the telephone connection and the ability to monitor electric power consumption.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A three phase load distribution system for evenly distributing an electrical load, present on a plurality of branch circuits, across a three phase power distribution network, comprising:a first, second and third current sensor coupled to a first, second and third phase, r

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A three phase load distribution system for evenly distributing an electrical load, present on a plurality of branch circuits, across a three phase power distribution network, comprising:a first, second and third current sensor coupled to a first, second and third phase, respectively, of the three phase electrical power distribution network, said first, second and third current sensors for measuring electrical currents flowing through said first, second and third phase, respectively;a plurality of switches, each of said switches coupled to one of the plurality of branch circuits, each of said plurality of switches for connecting any one of said first, second or third phases to one of the plurality of branch circuits;a plurality of current sensors for measuring electrical currents flowing through each of said plurality of branch circuits; each of said current sensors coupled to one of said plurality of branch circuits; anda processor coupled to said first, second and third current sensors, said plurality of switches and said plurality of current sensors;said processor for calculating,(a) differences between said electrical currents flowing through each pair of said first, second and third phases, and,(b) ratios of said electrical currents flowing through each pair of said first, second and third phases;said processor for controlling said plurality of switches so that a function selected from the group consisting of (a) the differences between, and (b) the ratios of, said electrical currents flowing through each pair of said first, second and third phases do not exceed a predetermined threshold;said processor calculating alternative combinations of branches to be connected by said switches to said phases, and said processor controlling re-connection of said branches by said switches to said phases so that said functions do not exceed said threshold.