Adaptive DR Control Level Adjustment via Real-Time Power Rate Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power management systems are unable to dynamically adjust demand response (DR) control levels based on varying power rates, limiting power saving operations to predetermined price levels and restricting user flexibility in operating electric devices.
Innovation Solution
An electric device and power management apparatus that include a memory unit to store multiple DR control levels, a communication unit to receive real-time power rates, and a controller to compare current power rates with user-set or pre-stored DR control levels, enabling adaptive power saving operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conventional power management system uses a predetermined DR control level, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying power rates and user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic DR control levels that can be adjusted in real-time based on current power rates and user preferences. The controller continuously receives power rate information from the power provider and compares it with stored DR control levels to determine optimal operation states, transforming the static predetermined system into a dynamic adaptive one.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the DR control level parameter from a fixed predetermined value to a variable that can be selected from multiple levels (first DR control level, second DR control level, etc.). This parameter change enables the system to adapt to different power rate conditions while maintaining a manageable structure through standardized level definitions.
2Productivity
If the conventional power management system operates at a predetermined price level, then the control logic is simple, but power saving control cannot be performed at other price levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the DR control into multiple discrete levels (first DR control level, second DR control level, third DR control level, etc.), each corresponding to different power rate conditions. This segmentation allows the system to provide targeted power saving control at various price levels rather than a single predetermined level, improving overall effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which DR control level to apply based on real-time power rate information. The controller compares current power rates with thresholds associated with different DR control levels and automatically adjusts the control strategy, enabling flexible power saving across multiple price levels.
3Ease of operation
If the DR control level is predetermined when the product is manufactured, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the user cannot adjust it to their own needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple DR control levels and their corresponding power rate thresholds during manufacturing, but leaves the selection and activation of specific levels to the user. This preliminary preparation of options simplifies manufacturing while enabling user customization through a user interface that allows selection among predefined levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static predetermined DR control level to a dynamic user-selectable configuration. Users can adjust which DR control level applies to their device through the user interface, and the controller adapts its behavior based on the user's selection and current power rate conditions.
4Loss of information
If the conventional system only provides current power price level information, then the information system is simple, but it does not provide DR control level information for power saving operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors current power rates, compares them with DR control level thresholds, and adjusts device operation accordingly. The system also provides feedback to the user interface about current DR control level status and power rate conditions, enabling informed user decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The information system serves multiple functions: it receives power rate information from the power provider, stores DR control level thresholds, compares current rates with thresholds, determines optimal control levels, and provides status information to the user interface. This multi-functionality reduces information loss without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric device for changing a DR control level and a power management apparatus for the same are disclosed. An electric device for changing a demand response (DR) control level includes a memory unit to store a plurality of DR control levels classified according to power rates, a communication unit to receive a current power rate and a current power rate level related to the current power rate from a power provider in real time, a user interface which, upon receiving a request for changing a DR control level from a user, displays a list of pre-stored DR control levels and receives a DR control level to be changed from the user, and a controller to compare the current power rate level with the changed DR control level, and determine whether to perform a power saving operation. As a result, the electric device can decide whether to increase the usage of the electric device or to consider the power saving aspect using current power status information transmitted in real time, thereby adaptively adjusting a start level of the DR control.