Power Practical, Inc.

Alten, LLC

Paul Slusser

David Paul Toledo

Apparatus for powering a smart load capable of receiving power at a first power-reception level and a second power-reception level greater than the first power-reception level includes a solar panel and a connector operably coupled to the solar panel. A monitoring device is configured to monitor a power-reception level of the smart load when the smart load is coupled to the connector. The apparatus includes an interrupting device configured to interrupt power flow to the smart load based on a determination that the smart load is receiving power at the first power-reception level. The smart load receives power at the second power-reception level in response to the interruption.

Power metering and control system adaptable to multi-standard device

A power control device has a voltage-regulator from power source to load, the load configurable to receive power at least at a first or second rate. The device has monitor circuitry to measure power; signal circuitry for signaling a power-reception rate to the load; and circuitry for resetting the load when the power source is overloaded. The device resets the load periodically to the second rate when the load is at the first rate. In embodiments, the power source is a thermoelectric generator or solar panel. In embodiments, the load couples through a USB connector. A companion method of charging smart loads includes applying power to the load; communicating power available to the load; configuring a battery charger in the load to absorb an amount of power less than that available; monitoring power, determining when changed configuration may optimize charging time of a smart load battery; and resetting the smart load to optimize current.

A portable device for generating electrical power comprises a vessel and a thermoelectric generator module. A gasket having an opening is included, along with a bottom plate that comprises a material having a higher a higher thermal conductivity than a material comprising the gasket. A thermal interface enhancer is adjacent one of the top side of the module and the bottom side of the module. A thermal interface inhibitor is also included. The bottom plate is secured to the bottom portion of the vessel with a fastener such that an area is formed between them. The gasket is secured to the bottom plate within the area, and the spacer is configured around the fastener. The thermal interface inhibitor is configured to aid in the maintenance of a temperature differential between the vessel and the bottom plate when the bottom plate is heated.

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Holladay, UT, United States of America

Paul Slusser