Patent ID: 8604638

Claim:
A power distribution apparatus comprising an outboard distribution unit having a first switch and a second switch; an inboard distribution unit having a third switch; a switch control unit coupled to each of the first, second, and third switches, the switch control unit being configured for selectively controlling each of the first, second, and third switches; a feeder cable electrically interconnecting the third switch with the second switch; and a generator line whereby a generator output can be supplied, in use, to the first switch of the outboard distribution unit; wherein in a first operating mode, the switch control unit selectively connects the first switch to the generator line and the second switch to the third switch to transfer power from the generator output via the outboard distribution unit to each of one or more nacelle and/or wing located electrical loads and aircraft fuselage electrical loads; wherein in a second operating mode, the switch control selectively connects the inboard distribution unit to a second generator output and the third switch to the second switch and selectively disconnects the first switch from the generator output to provide power to the one or more nacelle and/or wing located electrical loads from the outboard distribution unit via the second generator output and the inboard distribution unit; and wherein in a third operating mode, the switch control selectively connects the first switch to the generator line and selectively disconnects the second switch from the inboard distribution unit to transfer power directly from the generator output to the one or more nacelle and/or wing located electrical loads via the outboard distribution unit.