An energy management system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to an energy management system (10) for enabling the transfer of energy between a floating solar power plant (100) comprising a plurality of solar panels (102) placed on a floating platform (101), an energy storage unit (103) for storing electrical energy generated by the solar panels (102) and at least one energy consumption point (200) comprising at least one energy storage unit (201) provided in the vicinity of the floating solar power plant (100).

Description

[0001] AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to an energy management system and method to be implemented in a floating solar power plant.

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] Floating solar power plants (SPPs) have emerged as an innovative solution in energy generation in recent years. In particular, they attract attention with advantages such as the utilization of water surfaces, the preservation of land areas, and the reduction of evaporation. However, there are certain limitations and technical challenges in the energy management systems of floating SPPs.

[0006] In areas where grid connection is limited, the effective use of floating SPP systems constitutes a serious problem. In systems installed on lakes, reservoirs, or water surfaces far from the shore, the infrastructure required to establish grid connection is mostly either unavailable or very costly and difficult to implement. This situation makes it difficult for floating SPPs to maintain sustainable energy generation, especially in isolated regions.

[0007] The lack of storage systems is another significant limitation faced by floating SPP systems. In conventional floating SPPs, the direct consumption of the generated energy or its transfer to the grid is taken as the basis; however, sufficient importance is not given to the integration of energy storage systems. This deficiency causes fluctuations in energy production to be reflected on the grid or consumption systems and prevents the continuous supply of energy.

[0008] Cabling and infrastructure requirements also constitute a significant challenge in the design and implementation processes of floating SPPs. In systems operating on water, the arrangement of cabling must be resistant to mechanical and environmentalstresses caused by underwater and surface conditions. In current technologies, longdistance cabling operations are not only highly costly but also lead to insulation problems and maintenance difficulties due to the contact of cables with water. This situation not only increases energy losses but also adversely affects system reliability.

[0009] All the problems mentioned above have made it necessary to make an innovation in the relevant technical field as a result.

[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention relates to an energy management system for eliminate the above-mentioned disadvantages and bring new advantages to the relevant technical field.

[0012] An object of the invention is to provide an energy method system and method for mobile transport of energy produced by a floating solar power plant.

[0013] To achieve all the objects mentioned above and that will emerge from the following detailed description, the present invention is an energy management system for enabling the transfer of energy between a floating solar power plant comprising a plurality of solar panels placed on a floating platform, an energy storage unit for storing electrical energy generated by the solar panels and at least one energy consumption point comprising at least one energy storage unit provided in the vicinity of the floating solar power plant. Accordingly, it comprises at least one motion provider for enabling movement of the floating platform on water; at least one first energy sensor for measuring the amount of energy contained in the energy storage unit; a platform position sensor for enabling the detection of the position of the floating platform; a consumption position sensor for enabling the detection of the position of the energy consumption point; a control unit for enabling the operation of the motion provider in order to ensure the movement of the floating platform towards the energy storage unit in case it is determined, as a result of the comparison of the energy level received from the first energy sensor with a reference energy level, that the energy level is lower than the reference energy level, and for enabling the generation of an energy transfer signalfor performing energy transfer in case it is determined that a first position data received from the platform position sensor is the same as a second position data received from the consumption position sensor.

[0014] A possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that a plurality of energy consumption points are provided.

[0015] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a communication unit for enabling data exchange between the floating solar power plant and at least one energy consumption point.

[0016] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a second energy sensor for measuring the amount of energy contained in the energy storage unit.

[0017] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the floating platform comprises at least one obstacle sensor for preventing collision with obstacles.

[0018] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a memory unit for providing real-time storage of data associated with the control unit.

[0019] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising in that the energy storage unit is a wireless connected storage unit.

[0020] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising in that the energy storage unit is a wireless connected energy storage unit.

[0021] Also the invention is a method for implementation in an energy management system. Accordingly, it comprises the step of: receiving at least one energy level data from the first energy sensor, comparing of the received energy level with a reference energy level, actuating the motion provider to move the floating platform towards the energy storage unit in the event that the energy level is determined to be less than the reference energy level, receiving a first position data from the platform position sensor,receiving a second position data from the consumption position sensor, generating of an energy transfer signal for the performing of the energy transfer in case it is determined that the first position data is the same as the second position data.

[0022] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising in that the energy transfer is performed wirelessly in connection with the energy transfer signal.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a drawing illustrating schematic view of a floating solar power plant and the energy consumption points in the vicinity.

[0025] Figure 2 is a drawing illustrating schematic view of the working scenario of a floating solar power plant.

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] In this detailed description, the subject matter is explained with references to examples without forming any restrictive effect only in order to make the subject more understandable.

[0028] The invention relates to an energy management system (10) and method. As shown in Figure 1 , the system provides for energy transfer between a floating solar power plant (100) and at least one energy consumption point (200). The energy consumption point (200) described herein refers to platforms such as a power plant that transmits energy to houses located on an island, an energy system that provides the energy required for irrigation of a field, etc. These platforms are not limited to the examples described here. In the vicinity of a floating solar power plant (100), there may be multiple energy consumption points (200). Thus, the energy needs of multiple energy consumption points (200) can be met. The floating solar power plant (100) is located on a body of water. The energy consumption points (200) are centres of electricity consumption in the vicinity of the body of water. An energy storage unit (201) is provided at the energy consumption point (200) to meet the energy demand. Theenergy storage unit (201) is capable of wireless energy transfer. The energy storage unit (201) may be a battery, a power plant, etc. The energy storage unit (201) comprises at least one first energy sensor (202) for measuring the amount of energy. As the first energy sensor (202), an energy sensor, etc. may be used. The energy consumption point (200) comprises a consumption position sensor (203) positioned in the vicinity of the energy storage unit (201). A GPS module, etc. may be used as the consumption position sensor (203).

[0029] The floating solar power plant (100) comprises a plurality of solar panels (102) arranged on a floating platform (101 ), an energy storage unit (103) for storing electrical energy generated by the solar panels (102). The floating platform (101) is provided to be resistant to abrasion during prolonged use on water. The energy storage unit (103) is capable of wireless energy transfer. The energy storage unit (103) may be a battery, a power plant, etc. At least one second energy sensor (104) is provided for measuring the amount of energy contained in the energy storage unit (103). As the second energy sensor (104), an energy sensor, etc. may be used. The floating platform (101) comprises a platform position sensor (105) positioned in the vicinity of the energy storage unit (103). A GPS module, etc. may be used as the platform position sensor (105).

[0030] With reference to Figure 1 , the energy management system (10) comprises at least one motion provider (106) for providing movement of the floating platform (101). The motion provider (106) may be at least one engine, jet system, track, propeller provided to provide movement of the floating platform (101). Thus, the floating platform (101) can move towards the energy consumption point (200) and provide mobile fulfilment of the energy requirement of the energy consumption point (200). In order to prevent the floating platform (101) from hitting obstacles during its movement, there is at least one obstacle sensor (107) placed on the platform. An obstacle recognition sensor may be used as the obstacle sensor (107). In a preferred embodiment, the obstacle sensor (107) is provided on the floating platform (101) in a plurality.

[0031] A communication unit (12) is provided to enable data exchange between the floating solar power plant (100) and at least one energy consumption point (200). In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the communication unit (12) is configured to enable wireless communication. The energy management system (10) comprises a memory unit (13) for storing data. The memory unit (13) may be a memory, an SSD, a ROM, etc.

[0032] In the energy management system (10), there is a control unit (11) to ensure the realisation of energy management. The control unit (11) may be a microcontroller, a GPU, a CPU. The control unit (11 ), when the energy level received from the first energy sensor (202) is compared with a reference energy level, and it is determined that the energy level is less than the reference energy level, the control unit (11) enables the actuator (106) to be operated to move the floating platform (101) towards the energy storage unit (201). The control unit (11) causes an energy transfer signal to be generated to perform the energy transfer in case a first position data received from the platform position sensor (105) is determined to be the same as a second position data received from the consumption position sensor (203). Depending on the energy transfer signal, energy transfer is performed. Wireless energy transfer methods are well known in the art. Therefore, they are not described in detail here. The control unit (11) provides data communication between the floating solar power plant (100) and the energy consumption points (200) by means of the communication unit (12). The control unit (11) also ensures that the energy amount information and the time information of the energy exchange between the floating solar power plant (100) and the energy consumption points (200) are transferred to the memory unit (13) for later use. Thus, detailed information on how the amount of energy in the floating solar power plant (100) is utilised can be accessed.

[0033] The method for implementing the energy management system (10) by means of the control unit (11) comprises the following steps;

[0034] - receiving at least one energy level data from the first energy sensor (202),

[0035] - comparing of the received energy level with a reference energy level,

[0036] - actuating the motion provider (106) to move the floating platform (101) towards the energy storage unit (201) in the event that the energy level is determined to be less than the reference energy level,

[0037] - receiving a first position data from the platform position sensor (105),- receiving a second position data from the consumption position sensor (203), - generating of an energy transfer signal for the performing of the energy transfer in case it is determined that the first position data is the same as the second position data.

[0038] The control unit (11) ensures the realisation of these steps and ensures that the required energy is transported to the energy consumption points (200).

[0039] An exemplary working scenario of the invention is described as follows.

[0040] A floating solar power plant (100) is positioned on a body of water and surrounded by two energy consumption points (200). The first energy consumption point (200) is a power station supplying energy to a group of houses located on an island, and the second energy consumption point (200) is a station supplying energy for the irrigation system of an agricultural area. Both energy consumption points (200) have energy storage units (201) and their energy levels are continuously monitored.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the energy sensor (202) at the first consumption point (200) detects that the energy level has fallen below the critical reference level and this information is transmitted to the control unit (11). The control unit (11) activates the motion provider (106) of the floating solar power plant (100) and directs the platform to the first consumption point (200). During the movement, the floating platform proceeds safely by detecting and avoiding the obstacles around it thanks to the obstacle sensors (107). When the floating platform (101) reaches the first consumption point (200), it is determined that the platform position sensor (105) and consumption position sensor (203) data match and an energy transfer signal is generated by the control unit (11). Following this signal, wireless energy transfer is performed and the energy storage unit (201) is recharged. After the energy transfer is completed, the control unit (11) sends a signal to stop the process and the floating platform (101) is made ready for its next mission.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment, if the energy level at the second energy consumption point (200) is detected by the energy sensor (202) to be below thereference level, the floating solar power plant (100) first checks its own energy level. If it is determined that the energy level of the floating solar power plant (100) is not sufficient, the control unit (11) analyses the other energy consumption points (200) of the system. In this case, it is determined that there is sufficient amount of energy in the energy storage unit (201) at the first consumption point (200). The control unit (11) ensures that the floating solar power plant (100) first moves to the first consumption point (200). When the floating platform (101 ) reaches the first consumption point (200), the data of the platform position sensor (105) and the consumption position sensor (203) are matched and an energy transfer signal is generated by the control unit (11) to receive energy from the first consumption point (200). After this process is completed, the floating platform (101) moves to the second energy consumption point (200) and the energy requirement at the second energy consumption point (200) is met by transferring energy in a similar manner. This configuration increases the flexibility of the system and ensures efficient use of energy resources.

[0043] The energy management system (10) and method increases energy efficiency, minimises time loss and significantly reduces the cabling requirements of conventional energy transfer systems. The mobility of the floating solar power plant (100) on water ensures uninterrupted energy production, while enabling fast and efficient response to the needs at energy consumption points (200). Wireless energy transfer eliminates the need for complex cable infrastructures, reducing both installation and maintenance costs and increasing the flexibility of the system. Continuous monitoring of energy levels and locations prevents unnecessary energy expenditure and enables more efficient use of energy resources.

[0044] The scope of protection of the invention is specified in the attached claims and cannot be limited to those explained for sampling purposes in this detailed description. It is evident that a person skilled in the art may exhibit similar embodiments in light of the above-mentioned facts without drifting apart from the main theme of the invention.REFERENCE NUMBERS GIVEN IN THE FIGURE

[0045] 10 Energy management system

[0046] 100 Floating solar power plant

[0047] 101 Floating platform

[0048] 102 Solar panel

[0049] 103 Energy storage unit

[0050] 104 Second energy sensor

[0051] 105 Platform position sensor

[0052] 106 Motion provider

[0053] 107 Obstacle sensor

[0054] 200 Energy consumption points

[0055] 201 Energy storage unit

[0056] 202 First energy sensor

[0057] 203 Consumption position sensor

[0058] 11 Control unit

[0059] 12 Communication unit

[0060] 13 Memory unit

Claims

CLAIMS1. An energy management system (10) for enabling the transfer of energy between a floating solar power plant (100) comprising a plurality of solar panels (102) placed on a floating platform (101), an energy storage unit (103) for storing electrical energy generated by the solar panels (102) and at least one energy consumption point (200) comprising at least one energy storage unit (201 ) provided in the vicinity of the floating solar power plant (100) characterized in that it comprises at least one motion provider (106) for enabling movement of the floating platform (101) on water; at least one first energy sensor (202) for measuring the amount of energy contained in the energy storage unit (201); a platform position sensor (105) for enabling the detection of the position of the floating platform (101); a consumption position sensor (203) for enabling the detection of the position of the energy consumption point (200); a control unit (11 ) for enabling the operation of the motion provider (106) in order to ensure the movement of the floating platform (101) towards the energy storage unit (201) in case it is determined, as a result of the comparison of the energy level received from the first energy sensor (202) with a reference energy level, that the energy level is lower than the reference energy level, and for enabling the generation of an energy transfer signal for performing energy transfer in case it is determined that a first position data received from the platform position sensor (105) is the same as a second position data received from the consumption position sensor (203).

2. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that a plurality of energy consumption points (200) are provided.

3. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a communication unit (12) for enabling data exchange between the floating solar power plant (100) and at least one energy consumption point (200).

4. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a second energy sensor (104) for measuring the amount of energy contained in the energy storage unit (103).

5. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that the floating platform (101) comprises at least one obstacle sensor (107) for preventing collision with obstacles.

6. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises a memory unit (13) for providing real-time storage of data associated with the control unit (11 ).

7. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that the energy storage unit (103) is a wireless connected storage unit.

8. An energy management system (10) according to claim 1 , characterised in that the energy storage unit (201 ) is a wireless connected energy storage unit (201 ).

9. A method for implementation in an energy management system (10) as defined in claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises the steps of- receiving at least one energy level data from the first energy sensor (202),- comparing of the received energy level with a reference energy level,- actuating the motion provider (106) to move the floating platform (101 ) towards the energy storage unit (201 ) in the event that the energy level is determined to be less than the reference energy level,- receiving a first position data from the platform position sensor (105),- receiving a second position data from the consumption position sensor (203), - generating of an energy transfer signal for the performing of the energy transfer in case it is determined that the first position data is the same as the second position data.

10. A method according to claim 9, characterised in that the energy transfer is performed wirelessly in connection with the energy transfer signal.

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