| 摘要 |
2130351 9406191 PCTABS00030 A power controller device (10) is provided which controls the power output to a resistive load, such as a water heater (2) or baseboard heater. The device is programmed to output predetermined power levels or to energize the load to predetermined temperatures during predetermined time intervals, thus taking advantage of times during the day when power usage is low, and minimizing usage of power during times when demand is high. A voltage detection circuit monitors the supply voltage, and can increase power or temperature to the load during times of over-voltage or can disable the load during brownout or blackout conditions. Power is reduced through a convention means such as "cycle-stealing", and power can be output to the load in fractions of the maximum output power level. When the load is first activated, power is supplied in gradually increasing levels, to avoid a sudden power surge. The power controller device (10) may control a stepper motor actuating a by-pass valve, where a water heater is provided with a heater exchanger, or otherwise actuating a mixing valve.
|
