Distributed energy system edge unit

Abstract

In accordance with aspects of the present invention a distributed energy system edge unit is presented. An edge unit includes a power grid interface; one or more device interfaces; a processing unit coupled to the power grid interface and the one or more device interfaces, the processing unit including a communication state that allows communications with an external entity; a control and monitor state that communicates with the communication state; a check unit state that communicates with the control and monitor state and provides a unit state data; wherein the control and monitor state and the communication state provide an instruction data set, current operating parameters according to the unit state data, the instruction set data, and a characterization parameter data, and wherein the control and monitor state provides control signals to the power grid interface and the one or more device interfaces.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 791,420, filed on Jul. 4, 2015, entitled “Renewable Energy Integrated Storage and Generation Systems, Apparatus, and Methods with Cloud Distributed Energy Management Services,” by Dean Sanders and Stu Statman, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]Embodiments generally related to systems and methods for Distributed Energy Systems and, in particular, to an individual edge unit that can be used in a distributed energy system.DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART[0003]There exists a number of site specific energy generation and back-up systems, often associated with individual commercial, residential sites, or field locations in current use or which are being developed for use. There exist several technologies that can produce electricity at a particular location. Such technologies include, for example, photovoltaic panels (e.g., solar panels); small s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a distributed energy system edge unit that includes a power grid interface and one or more device interfaces and a processing unit with a communication state for communicating with an external entity, a control and monitor state for controlling and monitoring the unit, and a check unit state for providing data. The control and monitor state and the communication state provide an instruction data set, current operating parameters, and a characterization parameter data, and the control and monitor state provide control signals to the power grid interface and the one or more device interfaces. The method includes receiving an instruction set, monitoring a state of the edge unit to provide unit state data, providing current operating parameters, and providing control signals to interfacing devices. Overall, the invention enables more efficient and effective management and control of distributed energy systems.

Problems solved by technology

These technologies, used on residential, commercial, or other sites, can be referred to as “distributed energy sources.” Distributed energy sources have been deployed only to a very limited extent for reasons of cost, convenience, and a lack of harmonized grid inter-connection standards.

As a result, residential and commercial power storage and supply devices may be large and cumbersome.

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