AC Power Sharing System with Anti-Series IGBT Relays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for distributing and controlling solar power in multi-unit buildings are inefficient and costly, with embedded networks requiring high regulatory costs and separate solar systems being complex and wasteful, failing to effectively utilize solar energy due to uneven energy usage among tenants.
Innovation Solution
An AC power sharing system with a power distribution board and controller that connects an AC power source to multiple loads, using relays and sensors to optimize power distribution and prevent grid power flow between loads, ensuring even power sharing and maximizing on-site solar consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an embedded network is installed to distribute solar power to multiple apartments, then solar power sharing is enabled, but the system complexity and regulatory costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the solar power distribution into independent relay-controlled paths for each apartment. Each relay (comprising two IGBTs or MOSFETs in anti-series) independently controls power flow to individual loads, segmenting the distribution system to simplify overall complexity while enabling multi-apartment sharing
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution board acts as an intermediary device between the solar power source and multiple apartment loads. It mediates power distribution through controlled relays, enabling solar sharing without requiring complex embedded network infrastructure or regulatory approvals
2Ease of operation
If separate solar systems are installed for each tenant, then individual power control is achieved, but the overall system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple solar control functions into a single power distribution board that serves all apartments. Instead of separate solar installations, one centralized board with multiple relays provides individual power control to each tenant, reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining operational independence
3Device complexity
If conventional relay configurations are used in parallel, then power distribution is simplified, but uneven current sharing occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces asymmetric control elements (sense resistors and control circuits) into the symmetric parallel relay configuration. Each relay includes individual sense resistors and control logic that detect and adjust current levels, creating controlled asymmetry to achieve uniform current sharing across all relays
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by monitoring current through sense resistors in each relay branch. The control circuit receives current measurements and adjusts relay switching to maintain equal current distribution, ensuring precise current sharing while keeping the overall configuration relatively simple
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system dynamically and adaptively distributes solar power to optimize consumption, minimizing export to the grid and ensuring efficient use of solar energy across units, thereby enhancing energy efficacy and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
each relay having an OPEN/CLOSED configuration, wherein in the CLOSED configuration the relay is configured to connect the AC power source to a load to provide power from the AC power source to the load; wherein the relays comprise two IGBTs or MOSFETs arranged with their load side terminals connected in anti-series
Data Source
AI summary
An AC power sharing system for connecting an AC power source to at least two loads, the system comprising:power distribution board, the power distribution board having at least one input for receiving AC power from the AC power source; and,the power distribution board further comprising at least two relays, each relay for connecting the distribution board to a load, each switch having an OPEN/CLOSED configuration, wherein in the CLOSED configuration the relay is configured to connect the AC power source to a load to provide power from the AC power source to the load;wherein the relays comprise two IGBTs or MOSFETs arranged with their load side terminals connected in anti-series.