Method for reducing the load imposed on a power source, and apparatus for implementing the method
US6538343B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 25, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY04S20/222
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A load reduction system switches from a commercial power distribution system to an onsite power source when a fault in the commercial distribution system is detected, and reduces the drain on the on-site power source by effectively eliminating 240 volt loads such as an electric water heater or stove. This load reduction accomplished by shifting the phase of 120 volt AC power that is applied to a user line by approximately 180°, so that the potential difference between this user line and another user line that receives 120 volt AC power is reduced from 240 volts AC to a small value. Power can still be received by 120 volt loads from the two user lines and a further, neutral, user line. A load reduction system in accordance with the present invention may also be employed with a portable generator, for example, to permit selective removal of 240 volt loads while the generator continues to power 120 volt loads.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.