Transparent data management in island networks

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling the provision of electrical energy in an island network (1), the island network (1) comprising a bus (2) and a plurality of electrical units (3), which can be energy sources (4), loads (5) or couplings (6), the electrical stand-alone network (1) further comprising electrical lines (7) for electrically connecting energy sources (4) and loads (5) and communication interfaces (8) for data transfer between the electrical units (3), wherein the energy sources (4) of the island network (1) communicate data, such as their actual values, reserves and minimum target values, to the other energy sources (4) in the island network (1) via the communication interfaces (8), wherein the loads (5) of the island network (1) communicate data, such as their actual value and their attainable maximum value via the communication interfaces (8) in the island network (1), and wherein the energy sources (4) of the island network (1) calculate their own respective target values on the basis of the data of the other energy sources (4) and the loads (5), and communicate this target value to the other electrical units (3), wherein the energy sources (4) are started or stopped or adjusted further. The invention further relates to a device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island network (1).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Transparent data storage in island networks

[0003] The invention relates to the control of electrical units of island networks.

[0004] Island grids are used to supply electrical energy and are either fixed or mobile systems that are not connected to a nationwide public power grid. Depending on their intended use, island grids can be designed either as single-grids or as multi-grids. Multi-grids consist of several interconnected or separate power grids.

[0005] In isolated grids, calculations are necessary to monitor energy demand and manage energy consumption. These calculations are performed using algorithms.

[0006] The configuration of an island grid, i.e. the interconnection or separation of the subgrids, typically requires an evaluation or calculation to determine capacities and limits for these constellations for further control or regulation. In addition, separations or interconnections requested by the process or the operator must also be taken into account. These calculations include relevant current variables of the energy sources and consumers, as well as grid setpoints. Relevant variables are frequency and voltage for alternating current or voltage for direct current. Possible bottlenecks in power transmission, such as grid transitions with limited current capacity, must also be carefully considered.

[0007] According to the state of the art, the control of the various individual electrical units (e.g. diesel generator, battery, shaft generator / motor, couplings, etc.) within island networks takes place by means of direct data exchange (frequency, maximum power, actual power, actual voltage, reactive power, health status, operator command, etc.) between these electrical units and a central unit / decision-making level, whereby a central decision-making authority is available.

[0008] This type of communication and the centralized decision-making in island grids lead to complex and resource-intensive scalability. Changes in the configuration of the islands and their electrical units have a direct impact on the central system. The integration of new requirements or device types with different control behavior inevitably leads to inconsistencies.

[0009] The types of electrical units and their maximum number are often defined so that the data can be collected and evaluated accordingly, and the electrical units can be controlled. With new types or new approaches (e.g., a changed prioritization of electrical units, particularly energy sources), the corresponding data traffic must be adapted. This is complex and labor-intensive. Often, additional calculations were performed alongside the actual algorithm so that proven structures or proven processes could continue to be used.

[0010] In previous solutions, the individual participants in the network sent their data (frequency, maximum power, actual power, actual voltage, reactive power, health status, operator command, etc.) to a central calculation point. This was where the network status was evaluated and it was assessed whether any action was required. This has the disadvantage that an error (communication to the central unit disrupted, manipulation of the values) could mean that this calculation cannot be carried out and that comparatively large amounts of data have to be stored. The data is collected at the level of the electrical units and then sent to the central evaluation system. The central evaluation system then distributes the received data accordingly to the evaluation system, the power calculation, the security system, etc.This means that an expansion at the system level or an increase in the number of electronic units per system involves increased effort, since this data must first be consolidated and then evaluated centrally.

[0011] Furthermore, the evaluation result must be sent back to an executive office to control the corresponding action. Execution of the action requires monitoring and further evaluation, which in turn must be transmitted to headquarters. These evaluations are analyzed at headquarters, and additional actions and their communication channels must be defined there.

[0012] The object of the invention is to provide a method for controlling the provision of electrical energy in an island grid, which leads to improved scalability of the island grid. A further object of the invention is to provide a device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island grid.

[0013] The invention solves the problem directed to a method for controlling the provision of electrical energy in an island network by providing that in such a method, in which the island network comprises a bus and several electrical units, which can be energy sources, loads or couplings, and the electrical island network further comprises electrical lines for electrically connecting energy sources and loads and communication interfaces for data transfer between the electrical units, the energy sources of the island network communicate data such as their respective actual values, reserves and minimum setpoints to the other energy sources in the island network via the communication interfaces,that the loads of the island grid communicate data such as their actual value and their achievable maximum value via the communication interfaces in the island grid and that the energy sources of the island grid each calculate their own setpoint based on the data of the other energy sources and the loads and communicate this setpoint to the other electrical units, whereby energy sources are started or stopped or further adjusted.

[0014] Based on this data, the next steps (power correction, standby, start-up, shutdown of the electrical unit) for the island network are then triggered in the respective electrical unit. The speed of the data transmission and the multiple transmissions ensure that the electrical units all have the same data available for their calculation cycles.

[0015] This balances the power of the entire island grid between the electrical units. The purely "intelligent" consumers communicate their actual values ​​and their achievable maximum values ​​to the island grid so that the energy sources can calculate whether an additional energy source needs to be connected to the grid.

[0016] It can be useful to make a recommendation to limit a load based on the data exchanged in the island grid. This measure can help stabilize the island grid by preventing overloads. The recommendation to limit a load can possibly enable more efficient use of the available energy sources. By adjusting the loads, the energy can be distributed more evenly, leading to optimal utilization of the available resources. This, in turn, can help reduce energy costs, as targeted control of the loads leads to more efficient use of the energy sources.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, in the event of a fault, the configuration of the island grid is changed based on the actual values, i.e., at least one coupling is switched. Adjusting the configuration of the island grid can help maintain grid stability. By switching couplings, overloaded or faulty areas can be isolated to ensure the overall stability of the grid.

[0018] Advantageously, the data from one electrical unit to the other electrical units is communicated in a time-controlled and cyclical manner. This improves data transmission coordination and avoids potential overloads or bottlenecks. This promotes maintaining consistent system performance and ensures stable operation.

[0019] It is advantageous if the tasks of the electrical units are processed in time slices and the data is communicated in a first time slice. A time slice (or time slot) is defined in the present invention as a fixed-length period of time that is available for data exchange, with the time slice being provided periodically. In other words, a time slice is a periodically recurring allocation of use of a resource for a fixed period of time.

[0020] The length of a time slice is determined according to the requirements and specifications of the respective system or the underlying technology. The exact determination of the time slice length can depend on various factors, including the type of resource used within the time slice, the efficiency of the system, the performance requirements, the transmission speed, or other relevant criteria. The time slice length is usually determined with consideration of optimal use of resources and efficient allocation of the available time periods.

[0021] It is expedient for the electrical units to process each received data in a second time slice that is slower than the first. This ensures that the data is always up-to-date at the time of calculation. The transmitted data is therefore sent at a higher clock frequency than the time required for its processing, or more correctly, the period of the clock frequency for transmitting the data is shorter than the time available for processing.

[0022] Advantageously, the electrical units operate independently of each other with regard to synchronization. Independent electrical units enable decentralized control. Each unit can act autonomously and make decisions based on its individual needs and requirements. This makes the system more flexible and adaptable, particularly in dynamic environments or distributed systems. If synchronization is not required, new units can be integrated into an existing system relatively easily. This eliminates the need to implement complex synchronization mechanisms, which facilitates scalability.

[0023] It is advisable to define time slices uniformly in the island grid. Uniformly defined time slices enable optimized use of resources in the island grid. The time slices can be designed so that transmission capacity, storage resources, and other system resources are distributed and utilized efficiently.

[0024] It is advantageous if the power of an energy source is corrected based on the distributed data or if an energy source is started or stopped based on the distributed data if this stabilizes the island grid.

[0025] It is also advantageous to use a user interface in the stand-alone grid to adjust parameters for individual or multiple electrical units. The ability to adjust parameters via a user interface offers users greater control and enables optimized use of the stand-alone grid. It improves the flexibility, adaptability, and efficiency of the system, helping to achieve the desired performance and operating goals.

[0026] It is also advantageous if communication between the electrical units is carried out via wires. Wired connections are generally more stable and less susceptible to interference or connection failures, especially in challenging environments with comparatively intense electromagnetic influences. Furthermore, cable-based systems can generally offer higher bandwidth, which is important when large amounts of data need to be transmitted.

[0027] The object directed to a device is achieved by a device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island network, the island network comprising a bus and several electrical units, which can be energy sources, loads or couplings, the electrical island network further comprising electrical lines for electrically connecting energy sources and loads and communication interfaces for data transfer between the electrical units, wherein the electrical units are configured such that the energy sources of the island network communicate data such as their respective actual values, reserves and minimum setpoints to the other energy sources in the island network via the communication interfaces,that the loads of the island grid communicate data such as their actual value and their achievable maximum value via the communication interfaces in the island grid and that the energy sources of the island grid calculate their own setpoints based on the data of the other energy sources and the loads and communicate these setpoints to the other electrical units, whereby energy sources are started or stopped or adjusted.

[0028] The present invention increases the scalability of an island network and can eliminate the need for one or more masters in the energy management system. Technically, there is still a master at the system level for individual inputs from the operator, for example for entering a priority list. In the past, switching and dynamic expansion or reduction led to increased costs in 1:1 communication and scalability. In addition, dynamic processes in which the number of masters changed were susceptible to malfunctions or delays in execution. The solution proposed by the invention can be used in a variety of logical controllers depending on the technical or organizational framework conditions.

[0029] The invention is explained in more detail by way of example with reference to the drawings. They show schematically and not to scale:

[0030] Figure 1 shows a device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island network according to the invention,

[0031] Figure 2 shows the island network of Figure 1 with only energy sources in a first status,

[0032] Figure 3 shows the island network of Figure 1 with only energy sources in a second status and

[0033] Figure 4 shows the island grid of Figure 1 with only energy sources in a third status.

[0034] Figure 1 shows a schematic and exemplary device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island network 1. The island network 1 comprises a bus 2 and a plurality of electrical units 3, which can be energy sources 4, loads 5 or couplings 6. The electrical island network 1 also comprises electrical lines 7 for electrically connecting energy sources 4 and loads 5 via the bus 2 and communication interfaces 8 for data transfer between the electrical units 3. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 1, the communication between the electrical units 3 is implemented using a ring topology. In this ring topology, a cable arrives at each electrical unit 3 and a cable goes out to establish the connection to two adjacent electrical units 3.The use of a ring topology for communication offers the advantage of redundancy and is particularly used when high availability is of utmost importance. The closed cable route and the option of switching to bus operation in the event of faults make the ring topology a reliable and robust solution for data communication. Figure 1 also shows a user interface 9 via which users can communicate with the island grid 1 and carry out actions. The user interface 9 enables the user to communicate with the system and carry out actions, for example loading a priority list for the energy sources 4 into the island grid. This can be done via keyboard inputs, mouse movements, touch screens, voice commands or other input methods.

[0035] The connections shown are intended as examples. The illustration does not imply that (direct) physical connections must exist between the electrical units 3.

[0036] Figures 2 to 4 show schematically and even more simplified than Figure 1 the island network 1 according to the invention with the energy sources 4. These and also the other electrical units 3 are configured in such a way that they communicate data such as their respective actual values, reserves and minimum setpoints to the other energy sources 4 in the island network 1 via the communication interfaces 8. The loads 5 not shown in Figures 3 to 5 supply data such as their respective actual value and their respective achievable maximum value via the communication interfaces 8, whereupon the energy sources 4 of the island network 1 calculate their respective setpoints on the basis of the data from the other energy sources 4 and the loads 5 and communicate these setpoints to the other electrical units 3. For example, Figure 2 shows the status of the island network 1 before a fault.The electrical units 3a to 3f are connected to form a network / island which comprises energy sources 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d. Decisions are made for this network. A fault in the energy source 4c leads to a loss of this energy source 4c and the couplings 6e and 6f separate the island (Figure 3). Figure 4 shows that the energy source 4b replaces the failed energy source 4c. Furthermore, the energy source 4d must be started because the island is now separated. This handling must typically be negotiated within a few seconds and the runtimes of the individual feedback signals are crucial here.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Method for controlling the provision of electrical energy in an island network (1), the island network (1) comprising a bus (2) and several electrical units (3), which can be energy sources (4), loads (5) or couplings (6), the electrical island network (1) further comprising electrical lines (7) for electrically connecting energy sources (4) and loads (5) and communication interfaces (8) for data transfer between the electrical units (3), characterized in that the energy sources (4) of the island network (1) each communicate data such as their respective actual values, reserves and minimum setpoint values ​​to the other energy sources (4) in the island network (1) via the communication interfaces (8),that the loads (5) of the island grid (1) communicate data such as their actual value and their achievable maximum value via the communication interfaces (8) in the island grid (1) and that the energy sources (4) of the island grid (1) each calculate their own setpoint based on the data of the other energy sources (4) and the loads (5) and communicate this setpoint to the other electrical units (3), characterized in that energy sources (4) are started or stopped or further adjusted., 2. Method according to claim 1, wherein at least one recommendation is made to limit a load (5).

3. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein in the event of a fault the constellation of the island grid is changed on the basis of these actual values.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication of the data of an electrical unit (3) to the other electrical units (3) is carried out in a time-controlled manner and in cycles.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein tasks of the electrical units (3) are processed in time slices and the communication of the data takes place in a first time slice.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical units (3) act independently of one another with regard to synchronization.

7. Method according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the electrical units (3) process the respectively received data in a second time slice which is slower than the first time slice.

8. Method according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the time slices in the island network (1) are defined uniformly.

9. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a power of an energy source (4) is corrected on the basis of the distributed data.

10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an energy source (4) is started or stopped based on the distributed data.

11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein parameters of individual or multiple electrical units (3) are set via a user interface (9) in the island network (1).

12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication between the electrical units (3) is wired.

13. Device for controlling the distribution of electrical energy in an island network (1), the island network (1) comprising a bus (2) and several electrical units (3), which energy sources (4), loads (5) or couplings (6) can be, the electrical island network (1) further comprising electrical lines (7) for electrically connecting energy sources (4) and loads (5) and communication interfaces for data transfer between the electrical units (3), characterized in that the electrical units (3) are configured such that the energy sources (4) of the island network (1) communicate data such as their respective actual values, reserves and minimum setpoints to the other energy sources (4) in the island network (1) via the communication interfaces (8), that the loads (5) of the island network (1) communicate data such as their actual value and their achievable maximum value via the communication interfaces (8) in the island network (1), and that the energy sources (4) of the island network (1) calculate their own setpoints on the basis of the data from the other energy sources (4) and the loads (5) and communicate these setpoints to the other electrical units (3),wherein energy sources (4) are started or stopped or further adjusted.,

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