US20140032005A1 - Systems and methods for use in providing local power line communication - Google Patents

Abstract

The present embodiments provide systems and methods for implementing and controlling local power line communication (PLC) networks. Some embodiments include a central controller communicationally coupled with a PLC power line, a sensor adaptor coupled between the PLC power line and a consumer product, with the sensor adaptor comprising a current detector that detects a current usage level passed through the sensor adaptor, a PLC interface through which the current usage level is communicated over the PLC power line to the central controller, and an adaptor switch that interrupts current flow to the consumer product in response to a command received over the PLC power line from the central controller when the current usage through the sensor adaptor has a predetermined relationship to a first threshold.

Description

• This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/845,918, filed Jul. 29, 2010, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE IN PROVIDING LOCAL POWER LINE COMMUNICATION, for Ryuichi Iwamura, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/373,616, filed Mar. 9, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,813,842, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE IN PROVIDING LOCAL POWER LINE COMMUNICATION, for Ryuichi Iwamura, which are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to power line networks, and more particularly to communicating over power line networks.
BACKGROUND
• It has long been a desire to network multiple different products or entities to a single network. Establishing the communication links between these entities has presented some difficulty and is relatively costly. Further, it is often prohibitively complicated and costly to incorporate networking into simple systems such as homes and/or small businesses.
• Some networking systems have attempted to employ the use of conventional power lines that deliver electrical power to consumer products as the network connectivity between entities, such as the consumer products. The use of the power lines as communication links, however, has presented some significant difficulties in implementation.
SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENT
• The present embodiments advantageously addresses the needs above as well as other needs through the provision of the methods, apparatuses, and systems for use in establishing and/or controlling a local power line communication (PLC) network. Some embodiments provide a local PLC network that includes a central controller communicationally coupled with a local PLC power line; and a sensor adaptor coupled between the local PLC power line and a consumer product, the sensor adaptor comprising: a current detector that detects a current usage level passed through the sensor adaptor to the consumer product; a PLC interface through which the current usage level is communicated over the local PLC power line to the central controller; and an adaptor switch that is opened interrupting current flow to the consumer product in response to a command received over the local PLC power line from the central controller when current usage through the sensor adaptor has a predetermined relationship to a first threshold.
• Some embodiments provide a PLC network that includes a plurality of sensor adaptors coupled with one of a plurality of local PLC power lines and one or more consumer products controlling current flow from the local PLC power lines to the corresponding one or more consumer products; a central controller coupled with a first local PLC power line of the plurality of local PLC power lines and in communication with the plurality of sensor adaptors over the plurality of local PLC power lines, the central controller comprises: a PLC interface coupled with the first local PLC power line; and a controller coupled with the PLC interface through which the controller transmits and receives PLC data signals, wherein the controller receives a plurality of current usage information over the plurality of local PLC power lines from the plurality of sensor adaptors, determines for each sensor adaptor whether the current usage information has a predetermined relationship with one of a plurality of first thresholds, generates one or more interrupt commands for one or more sensor adaptors with associated current usage information that has the predetermined relationship with one of the plurality of first thresholds, and communicates the one or more interrupt commands over the plurality of local PLC power lines; and the one or more sensor adaptors receive the one or more interrupt commands such that the one or more sensor adaptors interrupt power to the corresponding one or more consumer products.
• Other embodiments provide a method of use in controlling power usage over a PLC. The method monitors a local current usage level of current received from a local power line communication (PLC) network and delivered to a consumer product; communicates the local current usage level over the local PLC network; receives the local current usage level from over the local PLC network at a central controller of the local PLC network; determines at the central controller whether there is a predetermined relationship between the local current usage level and a threshold; and communicates from the central controller an interrupt command over the local PLC network when there is a predetermined relationship between the local current usage level and the threshold.
• A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description of the invention and accompanying drawings which set forth an illustrative embodiment in which the principles of the invention are utilized.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present embodiments will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings wherein:
• FIG. 1 depicts a simplified block diagram of a local PLC network according to some embodiments;
• FIG. 2 depicts a simplified block diagram of one implementation of the central controller to be implemented in the network ofFIG. 1;
• FIG. 3 depicts a simplified perspective view of an example implementation of a central controller;
• FIG. 4 depicts a simplified block diagram of a sensor adaptor that can be implemented in the PLC network ofFIG. 1;
• FIGS. 5 and 6 depict simplified side and front views, respectively, of a sensor adaptor ofFIG. 4;
• FIG. 7 depicts a simplified block diagram of a PLC circuit breaker that can be implemented in the breaker board ofFIG. 1;
• FIG. 8 depicts a simplified flow diagram of a process for use in monitoring and/or controlling current flow over a local PLC network;
• FIG. 9 depicts a simplified flow diagram of a process for use in controlling current supplied to one or more consumer products on the local PLC network;
• FIG. 10 depicts a simplified flow diagram of a process for use in setting parameters, programming and/or scheduling the control of the local PLC network; and
• FIG. 11 depicts a simplified flow diagram of a process for use in remotely controlling one or more sensor adaptors and/or PLC circuit breakers to control current flow to one or more consumer products of the local PLC network ofFIG. 1.
• Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The present embodiments provide power line communication (PLC) networks for use in controlling power delivered to local consumer products. In some implementations, the power is controlled at one or more outlets of a local PLC. Through the use of the PLC network, some embodiments provide remote access and/or control over current and/or power delivery to consumer products. Further, some embodiments provide user information regarding power usage, state of operation, status information, statistics, parameter data, settings and other information. Current and/or power levels used by consumer products can be tracked, and current can be interrupted to one or more consumer products to control the usage of power and/or the operation of consumer product(s).
• FIG. 1 depicts a simplified block diagram of alocal PLC network120 according to some embodiments. Thelocal PLC network120 includes abreaker board122 with one or more circuit breakers124-126, a controller, central controller orcentral monitoring unit130, a plurality ofsensor adaptors132 distributed over the local PLC, multiple PLC network power lines, links orbranches134 and136 and one or more consumer products140-143. Thelocal PLC network120 is electrically coupled with anexternal power line150 that delivers electrical power to thelocal PLC network120, typically, through ameter152, such as a Watt-hour meter that measures Watt-hours delivered to the local PLC network. In some instances, the local PLC network further includes anetwork interface160 coupled with one or more distributed and/orremote networks162 such as public switching telephony network (PSTN), the Internet, a wireless network (e.g., cellular, optical, satellite, or other wireless network), and/or other such relevant networks or combinations of networks. The network interface can be substantially any interface to allow communication over the distributed network(s), such as a modem (e.g., PC 10 and Cable IADSL modem) or other network interface.
• Thecentral controller130 transmits and receives PLC signal data communications over thelocal PLC network120 to and from one ormore sensor adaptors132. PLC data signals can be carried between a first localPLC power line134 and a second localPLC power line136 through the circuit breakers125-126 of thebreaker board122. In some embodiments, thecentral controller130 communicates command signals over thelocal PLC network120 to sensor adaptors to control current and/or power delivery to one or more consumer products coupled with the sensor adaptors. Additionally in some implementations, thecentral controller130 can transmit and/or receive communications external to thelocal PLC network120 through theexternal PLC150 network and/or thenetwork interface160 over thedistributed network162, and in some instances, thenetwork interface160 is incorporated into the central controller.
• In some embodiments, thelocal PLC network120 additionally or alternatively includes one or more computers orother processor devices164. Thecomputer164 typically can communicate over the local PLC network with a PLC network interface incorporated into the computer and/or through asensor adaptor132. In some implementations the computer further communicates with thenetwork interface160 and/or includes anetwork interface166 that allows communication with thedistributed network162. In some embodiments, thenetwork interface160 can be replaced by thecomputer network interface166 such that thecentral controller130 can receive and transmit communications over thedistributed network162 through thecomputer network interface166.
• Thelocal PLC network120, for example, can be implemented according to the HomePlug power line network standard. Typically, electric power is carried from the external power line and/orexternal PLC network150 through the watt-hour meter152 and distributed over one or morelocal power lines134,136 through thebreaker board122. Thebreaker board122 includes the circuit breakers124-126 as protection to the local PLC network and consumer products140-143, thecentral controller130,computer164 and other devices connected with thelocal power lines134,136 of thelocal PLC network120. Thebreaker board122 further provides PLC communication coupling between the branches of thelocal PLC network120 by establishing one or more PLC communication paths between localPLC power lines134,136. For example, the PLC communication signals pass from asensor adaptor132 on the second localPLC power line136, through asecond circuit breaker125 to an internal connection of thebreaker board122 and out athird circuit breaker126 to the first localPLC power line134 to be received by thecentral controller130. Communications from thecentral controller130 can take a reverse path to the one ormore sensor adaptors132 of the second local PLC power line or other local PLC power lines.
• The consumer products are typically connected with thelocal power lines134,136 and PLC network through asensor adaptor132. Alternatively, one or more of the consumer products can be constructed to include a sensor adaptor and/or the capabilities of the sensor adaptors as described below. The sensor adaptors at least in part monitor the current usage level of the consumer product coupled to the local PLC power lines through the adaptor and communicate over thelocal PLC network120 with thecentral controller130.
• Thecentral controller130 monitors and/or gathers data from thesensor adaptors132 and/or consumer products having sensor adaptor capabilities to determine usage of the consumer products140-143. The consumer products can be substantially any consumer product such as cloths washing machine, cloths dryer, heater, air conditioner, television, stereo, digital versatile disc (DVD) player, compact disc (CD) player, computer, light, lamp, refrigerator, and substantially any other consumer product. Based on programmed parameters thecentral controller130 can at least in part control the usage of the consumer products through communication with thesensor adaptors132 and/or the consumer products.
• FIG. 2 depicts a simplified block diagram of one implementation of thecentral controller130 according to some embodiments. Thecentral controller130 includes an input port, plug orother adaptor222 to connect to thepower lines134,136 of thelocal PLC network120, a power source block224, aPLC coupler226, aPLC interface230, acontroller232,memory234, auser interface236 that can include, for example, adisplay240 and a keyboard, keypad, touch screen orother entry device242, and acommunication bus244.
• Thecentral controller130 is coupled to thePLC power lines134,136 through theplug222 to transmit and/or receive PLC communications over thelocal PLC network120. Power to thecentral controller130 is received through thepower source224 from thelocal power lines134,136. In some implementations, thepower source224 further includes one or more batteries, solar cells, or other sources that can supply power. Thepower source224 obtains, for example, DC 5 volts from theAC power lines134,136 and distributes the power to the components of thecentral controller130. In some instances, the battery is a chargeable battery charged from thelocal power lines134,136 when power is available from the power lines, and supplies power to at least thecentral controller130 when power is not available from thelocal power lines134,136, such as during a power outage.
• ThePLC coupler226 connects to theplug222 coupling PLC data communications and/or signals to and from thecentral controller130. The PLC coupler cuts high AC voltages and passes PLC data signals to and/or from the central controller. In some embodiments, the PLC coupler may include a transducer and may be an inductive coupler such as toroid coupling transformer, a capacitive coupler or other relevant coupler or combination of couplers, for coupling data to and/or from the central controller.
• ThePLC interface230 coordinates the communication of data to and from thelocal PLC network120 and/orexternal PLC150. Thecontroller232 communicates with the other device of thelocal PLC network120 through thePLC interface230. Thecontroller232 can be implemented through one or more processors, microprocessors, computers, central processing units (CPU) and/or other such device for providing overall functionality, data processing and/or implementing control over thecentral controller130 and in some instances thelocal PLC network120. Thememory234 stores software programs, executables, data, control programming, scheduling, runtime parameters, operation conditions and parameters, other relevant programs and data, and/or instructions executable by a processor, machine or computer. The memory can be implemented through ROM, RAM, disk drives, flash memory, removable medium (e.g., floppy disc, hard disc, compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD) and the like), and substantially any other relevant memory or combinations of memory. Generically, thememory234 may also be referred to as a computer readable medium. The local PLC network control provided through thecontroller232 may be implemented by software stored in memory and executed on a processor and/or stored and executed in firmware. Further, the one or more processors can be implemented through logic devices, hardware, firmware and/or combinations thereof. Thus, thecontroller232 described herein may be implemented using substantially any relevant processor logic or logic circuitry. In some embodiments, thecontroller232 is implemented through a computer running software and/or firmware to implement control monitoring thelocal PLC network120 as described above and further below. The controller and/or PLC communications can be distributed through thecentral controller130 over one ormore buses244, which can be implemented through substantially any relevant bus such as a 68k-type asynchronous bus or other bus or combination of buses.
• FIG. 3 depicts a simplified perspective view of an example implementation of acentral controller130. The central controller can include acasing320, the plug orother adaptor222 connecting to thepower lines134,136 of thelocal PLC network120, and theuser interface236 that allows a user to input control parameters, determine settings, determine statistics of thelocal PLC network120 and/or specific consumer products140-143 or other devices on the local PLC network, and otherwise adjust control of thelocal PLC network120. The user interface can include, for example, adisplay240 such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED) display, plasma screen, touch screen, or other such displays. Further, one or more input controls242 can additional be included such as buttons, an alphanumeric keyboard, touch screen, dials and other such input devices or combinations of input devices. A user can determine statistics of thelocal PLC network120 through thedisplay240 and/or enter or adjust operating parameters through theuser interface236. Data entered by the user from the input controls242 is sent to thecontroller232. Thedisplay240 displays data sent from the controller.
• As shown inFIG. 3, thedisplay240 can provide statistics, parameters, listings of devices of the local PLC network, and other information, such as indicating consumer product names and/orsensor adaptor identifiers321, power status322 (e.g., on or off), acurrent level value324, a present time and/ordate326, and other relevant information. In some embodiments, the PLC network information is provided through a displayeduser interface330 that allows a user to interact with central controller, e.g., make selections through the display using a mouse, pointer or other selection method. The user interface can be configured with multiple different screens and/or user interfaces that display information and/or allow users to enter and/or define parameters, limits, names and other data. For example, a user may configure a current usage limit for each consumer produce and/or sensor adaptor.
• Thecentral controller130 monitors the current and/or power usage of one or more consumer products140-143 of thelocal PLC network120. Further in some implementations, thecentral controller130 controls the operation of one or more of the consumer products. For example, when it is detected that a current being drawn by a consumer product exceeds a defined threshold level, thecentral controller130 can cause power to the consumer product to be interrupted and/or awarning message328 can be activated and/or displayed on thedisplay240. The user can see the power status of one or more consumer products140-143 in communication with the controller, either directly and/or through asensor adaptor132.
• Additionally or alternatively, thecentral controller130 can remotely turn on or off consumer products when desired. Further in some embodiments, thecentral controller130 controls eachsensor adapter132 so that a consumer product can be turned on or off at one or more specified times. Thecentral controller130 is shown as an independent, stand alone device. In some embodiments, however, the central controller can partially or fully be implemented through thecomputer164, through one or more of the consumer products140-143 having processing capabilities, or other processing devices of thelocal PLC network120.
• FIG. 4 depicts a simplified block diagram of asensor adaptor132 according to some embodiments. Thesensor adaptor132 includes a receptacle orPLC output port422, anadaptor switch424, a solenoid or other relevant switch trigger orcontrol426, a PLC power linedata signal coupler428, a current orpower sensor430, a power source orsupply432, a PLC input port, plug orother adaptor434, a controller PLC data signalcoupler440, aPLC interface442, anadaptor controller444, amemory446 and one or more communication buses or other relevantinternal communication network450. In operation, thesensor adaptor132 provides an interface between thePLC power lines134,136 and the consumer product140-143. The sensor adaptor connects with thePLC power lines134,136 through theplug434 through which power and PLC data signals are received. The electric power is carried through thecurrent sensor430 and theadaptor switch424 to thereceptacle422 to which the consumer product is connected to receive the electrical power.
• Thepower supply432 further couples with theplug434 receiving power from thelocal power lines134,136 and delivering power to the relevant components of thesensor adaptor132. Thepower supply432 obtains, for example, DC 5 volts from theAC power lines134,136 and distributes the power accordingly. In some embodiments, thepower supply432 additionally or alternatively includes a battery or other power source that delivers power to at least the adaptor sensor. In some instances, the battery is a chargeable battery charged from thelocal power lines134,136 when power is available from the power lines, and supplies power to at least thesensor adaptor132 when power is not available from thelocal power lines134,136.
• Thecontroller PLC coupler440 connects to theplug434 coupling PLC signal data to and/or from thesensor adaptor132. The PLC coupler cuts the high AC voltage and passes PLC data signals to theadaptor controller444. In some embodiments, the PLC coupler may include a transducer and may be an inductive coupler such as toroid coupling transformer, a capacitive coupler or other relevant coupler or combination of couplers, for coupling data to and/or from theadaptor controller444. In some implementations, thecontroller PLC coupler440 is similar to thePLC coupler226 of the central controller. Similarly, the PLCpower line coupler428 passes PLC data communications and/or signals between a consumer product coupled to thereceptacle422 and the localPLC power line134,136 establishing PLC communication between the consumer product at thesensor adaptor132 and thecentral controller130, other consumer product on thelocal network120 or other local or remote devices capable of receiving PLC signals. The PLCpower line coupler428 can be implemented similar to thecontroller PLC coupler440.
• ThePLC interface442 establishes PLC communication capabilities between the sensor adaptor and thelocal power lines134,136, and is controlled at least in part by theadaptor controller444. Theadaptor controller444 communicates with thecentral controller130 and/orother sensor adaptors132 or consumer products of thelocal PLC network120 through thePLC interface442.
• Theadaptor controller444 provides control for thesensor adaptor132, coordinates the operation of theadaptor switch424 and communications to and from thesensor adaptor132. The adaptor controller can be implemented through one or more processors, microprocessors, computers, CPUs and/or other such device for providing overall functionality, data processing and/or implementing control over thesensor adaptor132. The PLC communication control provided through theadaptor controller444 may be implemented by software stored in memory and executed on a processor and/or stored and executed in firmware. Further, the one or more processors can be implemented through logic devices, hardware, firmware and/or combinations thereof. Thus, theadaptor controller444 described herein may be implemented using substantially any relevant processor logic or logic circuitry. In some embodiments, theadaptor controller444 is implemented through a computer running software and/or firmware to implement current and/or power usage, power control over one or more consumer products and communicating over thelocal PLC network120 as described above and further below.
• Thememory446 stores software programs, executables, data, control programming, scheduling, runtime parameters, operation conditions and parameters, other relevant programs and data, and/or instructions executable by a processor, machine or computer. The memory can be implemented through ROM, RAM, disk drives, flash memory, removable medium (e.g., floppy disc, hard disc, compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD) and the like), and substantially any other relevant memory or combinations of memory. Generically, thememory446 may also be referred to as a computer readable medium.
• In some embodiments, one or more software programs utilized by theadaptor controller444 are stored in thememory446. Theadaptor controller444 controls thecurrent sensor430, thePLC interface442 and/orsolenoid426 over the internal bus(es)450. Theinternal bus450, for example, is an I2C bus or other relevant bus or combination of buses.
• Thecurrent sensor430 consists of, for example, a current transformer and an analog-to-digital converter. A digitalized current usage level is forwarded to theadaptor controller444. In some implementations, theadaptor controller444 communicates the measured current data to thecentral controller130 through thePLC interface442 and over the local PLC power line(s)134,136. Additionally and/or alternatively, thecentral controller130 and/or theadaptor controller444 can track the current usage through thesensor adaptor132. In tracking the usage, theadaptor controller444 can maintain an accumulated or summed use of current and/or power by the one or more consumer products receiving power through the sensor adaptor, maintain an average usage (e.g., average hourly usage), record one or more measurements, track peak usage, average usage, and other such tracking and/or evaluating. Still further in some embodiments, theadaptor controller444 can be provided, for example through thecentral controller130, with a current and/or power threshold, which can be a maximum peak current threshold, a maximum accumulated use threshold or other relevant threshold. In some operations, when thecentral controller130 detects a predetermined relationship between the measured current usage level and the current threshold, theadaptor controller444 can be instructed to activate thesolenoid426 to open theadaptor switch424 to interrupt the current flow to the one or more consumer products. Additionally or alternatively, theadaptor controller444 can locally monitor current usage levels to determine whether to interrupt the current and/or power to the consumer product(s).
• Theadaptor switch424 is typically closed allowing current to flow through the sensor adaptor and to the consumer product140-143. When theadaptor controller444 receives an interrupt or shut down command from thecentral controller130, theadaptor controller444 turns on thesolenoid426 to open theadaptor switch424. Similarly in some implementations, theadaptor controller444 can activate thesolenoid426 to close theadaptor switch424 upon receipt of a “turn-on” or close switch command.
• In some embodiments, the sensor adaptor is a plug adaptor that mounts directly with a standard wall power outlet. One or more consumer products140-143 can then be plugged into thereceptacle422 to receive power from thelocal power lines134,136 through thesensor adaptor132.
• FIGS. 5 and 6 depict simplified side and front views, respectively, of asensor adaptor132 according to some embodiments. The sensor adaptor can include acasing520 that encloses the components of the sensor adaptor. Theplug434 extends from the casing to be inserted into a wall outlet, and in some embodiments is implemented through a two or three prong plug or other plug configuration. Thereceptacle422 is formed in the casing with slots orapertures622 to receive a plug of the consumer product, for example a two or three prong plug or other plug configuration, with electrical contacts or connectors interior to thecasing520.
• Thesensor adaptor132 has adepth522,height524 and width620. In some embodiments, at least thedepth522 is maintained at a minimal size to limit the amount of space that is needed to employ the sensor adaptor and/or interfere with the placement of the consumer product (e.g., avoid having to place a consumer product an undesirable distance from a wall due to thedepth522 of the sensor adaptor). Similar in some embodiments, theheight524 is additionally or alternatively limited to avoid interfering with the use of one or more outlet receptacles. For example, often outlets include two outlet receptacles, and theheight524 of the sensor adaptor is configured to avoid blocking a second receptacle. The minimizing of the width620 of thesensor adaptor132 is typically limited by the size of theplug434 and/orreceptacle422 conforming to a desired plug configuration. The sensor adaptor can be configured, for example, similar to a wall-wart adaptor. Further, the sensor adaptors can be manufactured at relatively low costs, with relatively simple components. Some embodiments of the sensor adaptor can include two ormore plugs434 and/orreceptacles422, and in some implementations can be configured to replace existing outlets being directly hardwired to thelocal power lines134,136 and typically be positioned recessed into an outlet box, for example, in a wall.
• Referring back toFIG. 1, thecentral controller130 communicates with the one or more sensor adaptors132 (and/or directly with consumer products that have sensor adaptor capabilities) to monitor and/or control the power delivered to consumer products140-143. The PLC interfaces230,442 of thecentral controller130 andsensor adaptors132, respectively, allow communication between the central controller and the sensor adaptor over the localPLC power lines134,136 of thelocal PLC network120. In some instances, the PLC data signals between the central controller and one or more sensor adaptor can include passing the communication through one or more circuit breakers124-126 of thebreaker board122. Typically, circuit breakers include a switch that opens when a current exceeding a threshold is drawn through the circuit breaker. This opening of the switch in a typical breaker also breaks PLC connections between devices of a local PLC network.
• FIG. 7 depicts a simplified block diagram of aPLC circuit breaker720 according to some embodiments that can be implemented in thebreaker board122 as one or more of circuit breakers124-126. Typically, thePLC circuit breaker720 connects between anexternal power line150 or main power source and one ormore branches134,136 of thelocal PLC network120. ThePLC circuit breaker720 includes aninternal power line722, apower supply724, a breaker controller PLC coupler726, a PLC interface730, a first solenoid orother switch control732, a second solenoid or switch control734, abreaker switch736, acurrent sensor740, a breakerPLC signal coupler742, abreaker controller744, one ormore memory746, and an internal bus orcommunication network750. Typically, the PLC circuit breaker further includes a housing or casing752 to protect the PLC circuit breaker components and/or to allow simplified mounting in thelocal PLC network120 and/orbreaker board122. In some embodiments, thecircuit breaker housing752 has dimensions that are similar to existing and/or conventional circuit breakers. The PLC data signals are communicated through thebreaker board122 between different localPLC power lines134,136. The PLC circuit breakers, at least in part, maintain PLC communication paths between local PLC power lines even when thebreaker switch736 is open (as described below) continuing to allow thecentral controller130 to communicate over thelocal PLC network120 with thesensor adaptors132 and/or the PLC circuit breaker(s), including those instances where thecircuit breaker126 to the localPLC power line136 supplying power to thecentral controller130 is open and the central controller is operating from battery power or other local power source.
• Thepower supply724 couples with theinternal power line722 to extract power to drive one or more components of thePLC circuit breaker720. In some implementations, thepower supply724 is implemented similar to thepower supply432 to obtain, for example, DC 5 volts from the AC power line and distributes the power accordingly. Additionally or alternatively, thebreaker power supply724 includes a battery or other power source, and in some instances is a chargeable battery charged from the power lines when power is available and supplies power when power is not available from the power line(s)150.
• The breaker controller PLC coupler726 connects to theinternal power line722 to couple PLC signal data to and/or from thebreaker controller744. This establishes a PLC communication path between the breaker controller and thecentral controller130 allowing thecentral controller130 to receive current usage level information from the breaker based on current levels measured through thecurrent detector740 as well and thebreaker controller744 receiving breaker commands from thecentral controller130 to open and/or close thebreaker switch736 based on predetermined relationships between measured current levels and one or more breaker threshold levels. The breaker controller PLC coupler726 cuts the high AC voltage and passes PLC data signals to thebreaker controller744. In some embodiments, the breaker controller PLC coupler726 can include a transducer and may be an inductive coupler such as toroid coupling transformer, a capacitive coupler or other relevant coupler or combination of couplers, for coupling PLC data to and/or from thebreaker controller744. In some implementations, the breaker controller PLC coupler726 is similar to thePLC coupler226 of the central controller.
• The PLC interface730 establishes PLC communication capabilities between thebreaker controller744 and the external power line(s)150 and/or thelocal power lines134,136. Thebreaker controller744 communicates with thecentral controller130 of thelocal PLC network120 through the PLC interface730. Utilizing thelocal PLC network120, thecentral controller130 can control the activation and/or deactivation of thePLC circuit breaker720 as described below.
• The breaker controller PLC coupler726 and/or PLC interface730 are shown on a main power line side of thebreaker switch736. This is one implementation of the PLC circuit breaker. The PLC circuit breaker, however, can be implemented in other configurations while still achieving the desired local power line and/or consumer product protection and maintaining communication over thelocal PLC network120 and/orexternal PLC network150. For example, the breaker controller PLC coupler726 and/or PLC interface730 can be positioned on a local power line side of the breaker switch and in communication connection with at least the breakerPLC signal coupler742 andbreaker controller744.
• Thefirst solenoid732 cooperates with thebreaker switch736 to open and/or close the switch. In some implementations, the first solenoid operates similar to solenoids of common circuit breakers such that when a current level passing through the circuit breaker exceeds a primary fixed threshold, the solenoid causes thebreaker switch736 to open to avoid excess current being drawn by one or more consumer products and/or short circuits within the local power lines. In these implementations, current passes along the internalmain power line722 and through thefirst solenoid732 and switch736 to be delivered to one or morelocal power lines134,136 and consumer products140-143. When the current level exceeds a predefined fixed primary threshold (e.g., 30 Amps) the first solenoid triggers thebreaker switch736 to open and interrupt the supply of power beyond thecircuit breaker720 and into thelocal power lines134,136 of thePLC network120. In some embodiments, the triggering of thebreaker switch736 causes a physical opening of the switch that is to be manually closed by a user to resume AC current flow.
• The second solenoid or breaker switch controller734 operates similar to thefirst solenoid732 to trigger the opening and/or closing of thebreaker switch736. Thebreaker controller744, however, causes the activation of the second solenoid734 to open and/or close the breaker switch. The breaker controller receives current information from thecurrent sensor740 notifying the breaker controller of the amount of current passing through thePLC circuit breaker720. One or more secondary thresholds are tracked by thebreaker controller744 and/orcentral controller130. The one or more secondary thresholds can be stored in thebreaker controller744, thelocal breaker memory746, thecentral controller130 or other relevant local or remote storage device. When the current meets or exceeds a secondary threshold, thebreaker controller744 activates the second solenoid734 to trigger thebreaker switch736 to open interrupting power flow through thePLC breaker720.
• The secondary threshold(s) can be a fixed threshold fixed in thebreaker controller744 ormemory746. In other embodiments, however, the secondary threshold(s) is a variable threshold that can be defined by a user, thecentral controller130 and/or varied. For example, a user can define a secondary threshold through thecentral controller130,computer164 and/or device on thelocal PLC network120 or remote to the PLC network as further described below that communicates the secondary threshold over thelocal PLC network120 to be received by thebreaker controller744 and stored, for example, in thememory746. ThePLC breaker720 and/orbreaker controller744 can include a local PLC network address and/or identification to allow focused communication to the desired PLC breaker. One or more PLC breakers can be incorporated into thelocal PLC network720 in thebreaker board122, consumer products140-143,sensor adaptors132, alonglocal power lines134,136 and/or other locations within thelocal PLC network120.
• Thebreaker controller744 provides control over thePLC circuit breaker720, coordinates the operation of thebreaker switch736 and communications to and from thePLC breaker720. The breaker controller can be implemented through one or more processors, microprocessors, computers, CPUs and/or other such device for providing overall functionality, data processing and/or implementing control over the PLC circuit breaker. Thebreaker controller744 controls the PLC interface730 over theinternal bus750. Theinternal bus750 can be substantially any communication connection, such as I2C bus, or other relevant bus or communication connection. The PLC communication control provided through the breaker controller may be implemented by software stored in memory and executed on a processor and/or stored and executed in firmware. Further, the one or more processors can be implemented through logic devices, hardware, firmware and/or combinations thereof. Thus, thebreaker controller744 described herein may be implemented using substantially any relevant processor logic or logic circuitry. In some embodiments, thebreaker controller744 is implemented through a computer running software and/or firmware to implement at least the opening and/or closing of the breaker circuit and communication over thelocal PLC network120.
• Thememory746 stores software programs, executables, data, control programming, scheduling, runtime parameters, operation conditions and parameters, other relevant programs and data, and/or instructions executable by a processor, machine or computer. The memory can be implemented through ROM, RAM, disk drives, flash memory, removable medium (e.g., floppy disc, hard disc, compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD) and the like), and substantially any other relevant memory or combinations of memory. Generically, thememory234 may also be referred to as a computer readable medium.
• The breakerPLC signal coupler742 bridges thebreaker switch736 coupling across the switch and establishing a PLC communication path through thePLC breaker720 even when thebreaker switch736 is open. Without the breakerPLC signal coupler742, once thebreaker switch736 is opened PLC communication can no longer occur through the breaker. Thebreaker PLC coupler742, however, cuts the high AC voltage and passes the PLC data signals around the breaker switch and through thePLC circuit breaker720. The bypassing of thebreaker switch736 allows communication within thelocal PLC network120 betweenPLC power lines134,136 while one or more breaker switches of PLC circuit breakers are open, and/or allows communication between one or more of the PLC power lines and theexternal PLC network150 while one or more breaker switches of PLC circuit breakers are open. Further, thebreaker controller744 can communicate over thelocal PLC network120 with thecentral controller130 to notify the central controller of the triggering of thebreaker switch736 even when the breaker switch is open or other breaker switches of other PLC breakers are open. This provides thecentral controller130 with further information about the operation of thelocal PLC network120 and further allows the central controller to notify the user (e.g., through thedisplay240, alai in, sending communications to thecomputer164, and/or external to the local PLC network).
• In some embodiments, the breakerPLC signal coupler742 can include a transducer and may be an inductive coupler such as toroid coupling transformer, a capacitive coupler or other relevant coupler or combination of couplers, for coupling PLC data through thePLC circuit breaker720. In some implementations, the breakerPLC signal coupler742 is similar to thePLC coupler226 of the central controller and/or thecontroller PLC coupler440. Still further, in some implementations, a single PLC coupler is utilized for both the breakerPLC signal coupler742 and thecontroller PLC coupler440. Other PLC communication bypasses can alternatively and/or additionally be employed, such as employing a controller PLC coupler and PLC interface pair on either side of the breaker switch and communicationally coupled with thebus750.
• The secondary threshold(s) can be programmed by a user, the central controller, by a manufacturer, distributor or installer prior to installing, and/or other devices. Similarly, the secondary threshold(s) may be adjusted and/or vary. Further in some embodiments, the secondary threshold(s) can vary over time and/or based on a schedule of expected power or current usage. Additionally, the secondary threshold(s) can be a peak threshold or an accumulation threshold where thebreaker controller744 and/orcentral controller130 track the power and/or current through thePLC circuit breaker720.
• Typically, theprimary solenoid732 is configured based on a fixed primary threshold, for example 40 amps, that the user cannot change without changing thePLC circuit breaker720. The second solenoid734, alternatively, is controlled by thebreaker controller744 allowing the secondary threshold to be varied. This allows a user, manufacturer, installer, central controller or the like to set the secondary current threshold. In some embodiments, the first and second solenoids may be combined into a single solenoid that has a fixed primary threshold and the secondary threshold defined in thebreaker controller744 that activates the solenoid upon exceeding the secondary threshold. The combined solenoid may provide cost savings, space savings and/or simplify the circuit design. It is noted that thecentral controller130 and/or thenetwork interface160 may not work if one or more of the breakers124-126 is off interrupting current flow. In some implementations, thecentral controller130,network interface160 and/or one or more sensor adaptors can include local battery backup as described above, and/or are on a separatelocal power line134,136. Further in some embodiments, a secondary controller can be included that can be activated upon failure of the primarycentral controller130. For example, thecomputer164 or other consumer product with at least some central processing capabilities (e.g., a television with central processing capabilities) can take over central control in an event that thecentral controller130 is no longer responding to requests.
• Additionally or alternatively, thePLC circuit breaker720 can further be employed to control the power usage of one or more consumer products140-143. For example, thecentral controller130 can determine that alocal power line134,136 or consumer product is drawing current or power above a desired level and communicates over the localPLC power lines134,136 with the desired PLC breaker to open the breaker switch and interrupting current flow to the identified local power line and/or consumer product.
• One or more of the circuit breakers124-126 of thebreaker board122 can be implemented using aPLC circuit breaker720 allowing remote switch control capability over one or more of the circuit breakers124-126. The central controller can receive communications from thebreaker controller744 regarding the current passing through thePLC circuit breaker720 as monitored by thecurrent sensor740 to allow the central controller to evaluate current usage and determine whether to activate or deactivate (e.g., open or close, respectively) the PLC circuit breaker. Alternatively or additionally, thecentral controller130 can supply thePLC circuit breaker720 with the secondary threshold level that is stored by the PLC circuit breaker and compared with current usage as detected through thecurrent sensor740.
• Thelocal PLC network120 allows current and/or power usage to be monitored. Thenetwork120 provides status information ofsensor adaptors132, consumer products140-143, circuit breakers124-126, central controller and/or other devices of the network, and further provides control over the network. In operation according to some implementations, thecentral controller130 monitors the current usage over thelocal PLC network120 and controls the power flow to one or more consumer products140-143. When a current and/or power usage exceeds a desired threshold thecentral controller130,PLC circuit breaker720, and/orsensor adaptor132 activate theadaptor switch424 to interrupt and/or halt current flow to one or more consumer products. As such, the central controller can remotely monitor and control the current and/or power use over thelocal PLC network120 by sending PLC data signals to selected one or more sensor adaptors (and/or consumer products with sensor adaptor capabilities).
• FIG. 8 depicts a simplified flow diagram of aprocess820 for use in monitoring and/or controlling current flow over alocal PLC network120. Theprocess820 starts atstep821. Instep822, a current level usage is communicated over the localPLC power lines134,136 to thecentral controller130. The receipt of current level usage can be periodically forwarded from one or more sensor adaptors, circuit breakers and/or consumer products; forwarded upon detection of current levels exceeding one or more local thresholds; in response to a request from the central controller; and/or other such conditions. Instep824, the source of PLC data signal is determined. In some implementations the PLC data can include a source identifier, or other such methods for identifying the source. Instep826, the central controller determines whether a threshold associated with the identified source is based on a sum or an accumulated usage level. When the threshold is not based on an accumulated usage, the process skips to step834.
• Alternatively, instep828 the process adjusts and/or resets the accumulated value when needed prior to taking into consideration the recently received current usage value. The resetting of the accumulated value may be based on a time threshold (e.g., the central controller may only be interested in an hourly usage, daily usage or other time frame). Additionally or alternatively, the accumulated value may be adjusted by deleting only received current usage values prior to proceeding to determine a new accumulated value. For example, the central controller may only be interested in an hourly or daily usage and thus deletes from the accumulated value those usage values received more than an hour or 24 hours ago, respectively, and then summing the current value and those received within the hour or 24 hours, respectively. Instep830, the received current usage is added to the accumulated value to obtain a revised accumulated value. Instep832, the process stores the determined accumulated value, and in some implementations the received current level usage value.
• Instep834, it is determined whether the threshold is to be based on an average usage. When the threshold is not to be based on an average, the process skips to step842. Alternatively, instep836 the process adjusts and/or resets the averaged usage value when needed. Instep838, an average usage based on prior values and/or prior average(s) is determined. In step840, the determined average value is stored.
• The process then continues to step842 where a first threshold is retrieved for the identified source of the current usage level value. Instep844, it is determined whether the recently received current usage level, the accumulated usage value, or average usage value exceeds the first threshold. When the first threshold is not exceeded theprocess820 terminates instep862 or continues tooptional step852. Alternatively instep846, the source supplying the recently received current usage value is directed to activate or open the adaptor switch424 (or PLC breaker switch736) to interrupt current flow to the one or more consumer products receiving power through the sensor adaptor (or PLC circuit breaker720).
• Instep850, thecentral controller130 records the change of status (e.g., from on to off, or off to on as appropriate), the time of the change, and/or notifies a user of the change of status. The notification to the user can be implemented by indicating the status on thecentral controller display240, thecomputer164, generating an alarm at the central controller and/or sensor adaptor, generating a communication over the local PLC to computer, activating a light on a sensor adaptor, generate communication overexternal PLC network150 and/or distributednetwork162, and other such notifications and/or combinations of notifications.
• In some embodiments, theprocess820 can include additional optional steps that provide warnings when current usage levels are getting close to shutoff levels. Instep852, the process identifies a second usage threshold for the identified source. Instep854, it is determined whether the current usage level, accumulated value or average value exceeds the second threshold. When the second threshold is not exceeded the process terminates atstep862. Alternatively, instep856 the central controller generates and records a warning and the time. Instep860, the user is notified of the change of status or warning. The notification can be implemented as described above with regard to step850. Theprocess820 terminates atstep862.
• FIG. 9 depicts a simplified flow diagram of aprocess920 for use in controlling current supplies to one or more consumer products on thelocal PLC network120. Theprocess920 starts atstep921. Instep922, a sensor adaptor, consumer product having sensor adaptor capabilities, orPLC circuit breaker720 that has been activated to interrupt current flow to the consumer product is identified. Instep924, a period of time for which the current flow has been interrupted to the consumer product is determined. Instep926, it is deter wined whether a time threshold or period is defined for which the current flow is to be interrupted. When there is not a defined time threshold the process skips to step940.
• Alternatively, instep930 the time threshold is identified. Instep932 the process determines whether the time threshold has been exceeded. When the time threshold has been exceed the process continues to step950. When the time threshold has not been exceeded,step940 is entered where it is determined whether a command has been received (e.g., received from the centralcontroller user interface236, computer264,external PLC network150, distributednetwork162, or other sources). When a command has been received the process skips to step950.
• Alternatively instep942, it is determined whether a schedule exists for controlling the identified sensor adaptor132 (PLC circuit breaker or consumer product) controlling current flow to one or more consumer products. In those instances where there is not a schedule for the identified sensor adaptor theprocess920 terminates atstep954. When there is a schedule,step944 is entered where a current time is identified. Instep946, it is determined whether one or more sensor adaptor132 (or consumer product) of thelocal PLC network120 are to be activated (opening theadaptor switch424 and interrupting the current flow) or deactivated (closing the adaptor switch and allowing current to flow to the consumer product(s)) according to the current time and the schedule.
• When there are no scheduled activations/deactivations, theprocess920 terminates atstep954. Instead when there are scheduled activations/deactivations,step950 is entered where the appropriate sensor adaptor(s) (and/or consumer product) is activate or deactivate accordingly. Instep952, theprocess920 determines whether there are further sensor adaptors (PLC circuit breakers, consumer products) to be evaluated. When there are, the process returns to step922, alternatively, the process terminates atstep954.
• FIG. 10 depicts a simplified flow diagram of aprocess1020 for use in setting parameters, programming and/or scheduling the control of thelocal PLC network120. Theprocess1020 starts atstep1021. Instep1022, a request to adjust parameters is received and identified. Instep1024, it is determined whether the user wishes to change parameters of asensor adaptor132,PLC circuit breaker720, schedule or other parameters.
• Instep1026, the one ormore sensor adaptors132,PLC circuit breakers720, and/or consumer products with sensor adaptor capabilities of thelocal PLC network120 are identified. In some embodiments, the sensor adaptors (consumer products) can be listed on a user interface displayed as selectable options on theuser interface display240 of the central controller, on thecomputer164, on a remote computer coupled with theexternal PLC network150 and/or distributednetwork162, or otherwise listed. Instep1030, the process determines which sensor adaptor(s) is to be adjusted, which in some instances is determined by a user selecting one or more sensors to adjust.
• Instep1034, the available parameters of the identified sensor adaptor are identified. Again in some embodiments, the available parameters can be displayed to the user as selectable options. The parameters can include on/off (or activate/deactivate) status, warning threshold level, activate/deactivate threshold level(s) and other such parameters. Instep1036, the user is provided with the parameters for the identified sensor adaptor (e.g., display parameters).
• Instep1040, the process identifies changes to the parameters and enters and stores the changes to the selected parameters. Again, the user enters changes, typically, through theuser interface236,local computer164 or other entry device. Instep1042, theprocess1020 determines whether further sensor adaptors are to be adjusted. When further sensor adaptors are to be adjusted, the process returns to step1026. Alternatively, the process continues to step1050, where availablePLC circuit breakers720 of thelocal PLC network120 are identified to the user. Instep1052, it is determined whether a PLC circuit breaker is to be adjusted. When there is no breaker to adjust, the process continues to step1064. Alternatively, instep1054, parameters of identified PLC circuit breaker are identified. Instep1056, the user is provided with the parameters for the identified PLC circuit breaker (e.g., display parameters), such as secondary threshold level and other parameters.
• Instep1060, changes to the selected parameters of the PLC circuit breaker specified by the user are identified. Instep1062, it is determined whether further PLC circuit breakers are to be adjusted. When further PLC circuit breakers are to be adjusted, the process returns to step1050. Alternatively,step1064 is entered where the user is provided with a schedule. Again, the schedule can be displayed to the user. Instep1066, changes to schedule are identified. This can include an initial population of the schedule and/or adjustments to already defined schedule(s). Instep1070, the changes to sensor adaptor parameters, PLC circuit breaker parameters and/or the schedule are recorded and implemented. Theprocess1020 terminates atstep1072.
• The schedule allows thelocal PLC network120 to activate and/or deactivate consumer products based on time. For example, lights can be scheduled to come on at dusk, consumer products (e.g., lights, TV and/or radio) can be configured to come on when a user is out of town to simulate that a home owner is still present, and other such scheduling.
• FIG. 11 depicts a simplified flow diagram of aprocess1120 for use in remotely controlling one ormore sensor adaptors132 and/or PLC circuit breakers to control current flow to one or more consumer products140-143. Theprocess1120 starts atstep1121. Instep1122, a user request to control one or more sensor adaptors and/or PLC circuit breakers is received. Instep1124, it is determined whether proper security clearance is received. The security clearance can be determined through one or more methods such as, but not limited to, determining whether a request can be decrypted, whether a request includes a proper password, whether a request is received from an identified source (e.g.,central controller130,local computer164, remote computer coupled with the distributed network162), and other such methods or combinations of methods to determine security. When the security clearance is not verified the process continues to step1126 where a failure reply is generated (e.g., displayed failure, audio notification of failure, or other reply), and theprocess1120 returns to step1122. In some implementations, theprocess1120 returns to step1122 from step1126 a predefined number of times (e.g., twice, giving the user three opportunities to provide the correct clearance) and then terminates following predefined number of failures.
• Instep1130, the user is provided with a list (e.g., displayed) of sensor adaptors and/or PLC circuit breaker. Instep1132, theprocess1120 identifies which sensor adaptor(s) and/or PLC circuit breaker(s) is to be activated or deactivated according to received user commands. Instep1134, the change command is recorded. Instep1136, the requested change is implemented (e.g., activating a sensor adaptor). Instep1140, the user is notified of the status change (e.g., displaying “off” or “on” depending on the received command). Theprocess1120 terminates atstep1142.
• Theprocesses820,920,1020 and1120 above provide information to the user and/or receive commands, parameters and/or information from the user. In some embodiments, one or more user interfaces can be generated and displayed on thedisplay240, on thecomputer164 and/or on remote devices (e.g., computer communicationally coupled with a distributed network, such as the Internet). These user interfaces allow a user to see information and parameters about the local PLC network, and in some implementations, allow users to make changes to the parameters and control thelocal PLC network120. For example, some interfaces include entry fields that allow a user to select the field and enter parameter data into the field (e.g., threshold value entry fields). Similarly, the user interface can display selectable listings (e.g., listings of sensor adaptors, PLC circuit breakers and/or other devices of the network) that allow users to highlight or select one or more devices from the list. The selection can be implemented through the use of a mouse, stylist, arrow keys, or other pointing device, touch screen, keyboard number entry, remote control, and/or other such selection methods. Upon selection of one or more devices parameters, settings, past and/or current status information, and/or other relevant information can be provided to the user for the selected one or more parameters. The relevant information can, in some implementations, similarly be displayed, selectable and/or editable.
• In some embodiments, asensor adaptor132 is identified upon initial connection with thelocal PLC network120 by the sensor adaptor submitting a notification of its identification, submitting a request for an identification and/or thecentral controller130 detecting the addition of the new sensor adaptor and issuing an identification. The identification can be generated, in some implementations, by the central control or a user. For example, upon an initial connection with the local PLC network, the central controller can detect the addition of a sensor adaptor and can request that a user define an identifier for the sensor adaptor (e.g., “cloths washing machine”, “dishwasher”, “heater”, “computer”, “TV” or other such identifiers). In some instances, the central controller can issue a default identification (e.g., a random number or other identifier, such as “sensor adaptor 015”), which can be used by the central controller and/or utilized until a user changes the identification. Using the identification, the central controller can issue commands, and/or properly associate and use information from the sensor adaptor.
• Thelocal PLC network120 is configured such that thecentral controller130 communicates over thelocal power lines134,136 with thesensor adaptors132 and/or consumer products having sensor adaptor capabilities (e.g., consumer product143). The central controller provides remote monitoring and/or control over thelocal PLC network120. As described above, thecentral controller130 receives runtime and/or history data from the one ormore sensor adaptors132, consumer products140-143 and/orPLC circuit breakers720 to track current and/or power usage of the consumer products, and provide a user with network conditions, usage and control. Additionally or alternatively in some embodiments, thecentral controller130 can be partially or fully implemented through thecomputer164 or other consumer product140-143 having sufficient processing capabilities, controller software and/or firmware.
• Some embodiments further include thenetwork interface160 that allows the transmission and/or reception of communications over one or more distributednetworks162. Additionally or alternatively, thecomputer164 can include anetwork interface166 that allows communication between thelocal PLC network120 and the distributednetwork162. Further in some implementations, thecentral controller130 can communicate external to and/or from thelocal PLC network120 through theexternal PLC network150, for example, to an external network interface (not shown). Providing communication external to the local PLC network allows thecentral controller130 to forward parameters, usage information and/or statistical information to users at remote locations and/or to other entities (e.g., tracking companies, security companies, and other such entities). Further, remote users can adjust parameters and/or forward control commands to thelocal PLC network120 from remote locations. This gives users greater flexibility and/or control over the local PLC network. The communications to and/or from the local PLC network can be encrypted, verified or otherwise secured in attempts to avoid authorized access, control and/or use of thelocal PLC network120. Additionally and/or alternatively, the central controller can allow threshold levels to be adjusted through the central controller (either directly at the central controller, or other device, such as through the computer) and the central controller can forward the threshold levels to the sensor adaptors where the sensor adaptors compare current usage levels to the thresholds and determine locally whether to interrupt current flow to the consumer product.
• In some embodiments, the local PLC network additionally or alternatively includes one or more computers orother processor devices164. Thecomputer164 can communicate over the local PLC with thenetwork interface160 and/or include anetwork interface166 that allows communication with the distributednetwork162. In some implementations, thenetwork interface160 can be replaced by thecomputer network interface166 such that thecentral controller130 can receive and transmit communications over the distributednetwork162 through thecomputer network interface166.
• Further, the local PLC network allows a user greater control over consumer products and provides a user with information about the current level usage over the network. For example, a user can quickly check to see whether desired consumer products are on or off from a single location avoiding the need to go around checking each product. Further, users can learn the electricity usage of products to allow better energy saving efforts to conserve power and reduce costs. Further, employing the sensor adaptor allows a user to take advantage of the local PLC network and control consumer products without having to replace consumer products with PLC-ready products, and instead can continue to use existing consumer products. As such, the sensor adaptors and/or central controller allow a local PLC network to be quickly and easily implemented, at relatively low costs.
• While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means of specific embodiments and applications thereof, numerous modifications and variations could be made thereto by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.

Claims (14)

1-19. (canceled)

20. A power line communication (PLC) network, comprising:

a first PLC circuit breaker configured to couple with a first local PLC power line of a plurality of local PLC power lines that are distributed through different portions of a building providing electrical power through the building and communication paths, the first PLC circuit breaker comprising a first breaker switch configured to couple with the first local PLC power line and to interrupt power to the first local PLC power line when open, and a first breaker PLC coupler configured to couple across the first breaker switch and to maintain a PLC signal path between the first local PLC power line and another local PLC power line when the first breaker switch is open;

a sensor adaptor configured to couple with the first local PLC power line and one or more consumer products, wherein the sensor adaptor is configured to control current flow from the first local PLC power line to the one or more consumer products; and

a central controller configured to couple with the first local PLC power line and to communicate with the sensor adaptor over the first local PLC power line, the central controller comprising:

a PLC interface configured to couple with the first local PLC power line; and

a controller configured to couple with the PLC interface;

wherein the controller is configured to receive current usage information over the first local PLC power line from the sensor adaptor, to determine whether the current usage information has a predetermined relationship with a first threshold, to generate an interrupt command for the sensor adaptor when the current usage information has the predetermined relationship with the first threshold, and to communicate the interrupt command over the first local PLC power line; and

wherein the sensor adaptor is further configured to receive the interrupt command and to interrupt, in response to receiving the interrupt command, power to the one or more consumer products.

21. The PLC network ofclaim 20, further comprising:

a second circuit breaker configured to couple between the first circuit breaker and an external PLC network, the second circuit breaker comprising:

a second breaker switch configured to couple between the first circuit breaker and the external PLC network, wherein the second breaker switch is configured to allow power to pass between the external PLC network to the first local PLC power line through the first circuit breaker when the first and second breaker switches are closed; and

a second breaker PLC signal coupler configured to couple across the second breaker switch to provide a communication path between the first local PLC power line and the external PLC network regardless of the state of the second breaker switch.

22. The PLC network ofclaim 20, wherein the sensor adaptor comprises:

an adaptor switch configured to couple between the first local PLC power line and the one or more consumer products, wherein the adaptor switch is further configured to interrupt the current to the one or more consumer products when open;

a current sensor configured to detect current passing through the sensor adaptor; and

a PLC interface configured to provide a communication path through which the current usage information is communicated over the first local PLC power line.

23. The PLC network ofclaim 22, wherein the sensor adaptor further comprises an adaptor controller coupled with the PLC interface, the current sensor and the adaptor switch, such that the adaptor controller communicates with the central controller over the first local PLC power line through the PLC interface to transmit the current usage information through the sensor adaptor and receive the interrupt command to interrupt the current flow to the one or more consumer products, and activates the adaptor switch to interrupt the current flow to the one or more consumer product.

24. The PLC network ofclaim 23, wherein the sensor adaptor further comprises a PLC coupler communicationally coupled with the first local PLC power line coupling PLC signal data between the adaptor controller and the first local PLC power line and to block AC power carried on the first local PLC power lines from the adaptor controller.

25. The PLC network ofclaim 23, wherein the sensor adaptor includes a plug to connect with an outlet of the first local PLC power line, and a receptacle to receive a plug from at least one of the one or more consumer products.

26. The PLC network ofclaim 25, wherein the central controller further comprises a user interface through which the controller receives user input and supplies local PLC network statistics.

27. The PLC network ofclaim 22, wherein the central controller is not part of a circuit breaker and the one or more consumer products is not part of a circuit breaker.

28. The PLC network ofclaim 27, wherein the controller is configured to receive the current usage information

corresponding to current usage by the one or more consumer products that receive power from over the local PLC network and are remote from the central controller, such that the local current usage information is communicated within the local PLC network to the central controller, where the local PLC network is electrically coupled with an external power line that delivers electrical power to the local PLC network, and wherein the external power line is not part of the local PLC network.

29. The PLC network ofclaim 20, wherein the sensor adaptor includes a plug to connect with an outlet of the first local PLC power line, and a receptacle to receive a plug from at least one of the one or more consumer products.

30. The PLC network ofclaim 20, wherein the central controller further comprises a user interface through which the controller receives user input and supplies local PLC network statistics.

31. The PLC network ofclaim 20, wherein the central controller is not part of a circuit breaker and the one or more consumer products is not part of a circuit breaker.

32. The PLC network ofclaim 31, wherein the controller is configured to receive the current usage information

corresponding to current usage by the one or more consumer products that receive power from over the local PLC network and are remote from the central controller, such that the local current usage information is communicated within the local PLC network to the central controller, where the local PLC network is electrically coupled with an external power line that delivers electrical power to the local PLC network, and wherein the external power line is not part of the local PLC network.

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