Remote Backup Power Synchronization for Indoor Fuel Cell Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backup generators are undesirable for indoor use due to noise, fuel handling risks, and toxic emissions, and existing utility demand management systems inconvenience users by shutting off appliances.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled electrical power generating system using fuel cells or generators, with DC-AC conversion and synchronization to match AC load bus parameters, allowing connection via existing building wiring for safe and efficient backup power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional diesel or gasoline generators are used for backup power, then high power output is achieved, but noise levels increase and toxic emissions are produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the power generation system by transitioning from combustion-based generators to fuel cell technology. This chemical-to-electrical energy conversion method fundamentally alters the operating principles, eliminating combustion-related noise and emissions while maintaining high power output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical combustion system with an electrochemical fuel cell system. Instead of using mechanical engines that burn fuel to produce motion and then generate electricity, the system directly converts chemical energy from hydrogen into electrical energy, eliminating the mechanical components that generate noise and harmful emissions.
2Reliability
If conventional fuel-powered generators are used, then backup power is provided, but fuel storage and handling dangers increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful aspects of conventional generator systems by removing the combustion engine and traditional fuel delivery system. It keeps only the essential power generation function through fuel cells, which use a cleaner hydrogen fuel source that eliminates the need for complex fuel storage and handling infrastructure associated with diesel or gasoline generators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a safer operational environment by using hydrogen fuel cells that operate without the hazardous fuel storage requirements of conventional generators. The system design inherently reduces fuel handling risks by eliminating large quantities of stored combustible fuel, thereby creating a more inert and safe operational atmosphere.
3Reliability
If conventional generators are installed, then backup power is available, but special wiring infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances the versatility of the power generation system by designing it to interface with standard building electrical infrastructure. The fuel cell system with integrated inverter can connect to existing AC load buses and building wiring, making the system universally applicable without requiring specialized installation infrastructure.
4Use of energy by moving object
If utility demand management shuts off selected appliances, then power demand is reduced, but customer convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by installing backup power generation capacity before power failures occur. The fuel cell system is pre-configured and ready to immediately supply power to selected loads when needed, eliminating the need for utility-imposed shutdowns and maintaining customer convenience without requiring actual power consumption reduction.
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
Provides safe, efficient, and convenient backup power without special wiring, using hydrogen fuel cells that emit no harmful emissions, and allows remote monitoring and control for synchronization and load management.
Implementation Method 1
a fuel cell comprising a first DC output
Implementation Method 2
an inverter coupled to the second DC output of the electrical storage unit to receive power, the inverter comprising a first AC output
Data Source
AI summary
An externally-controllable electrical power generating system for providing auxiliary or backup power to a load bus or device. The system may be used indoors, and generally includes a power source comprising a first DC output, an electrical storage unit comprising a DC input coupled to the first DC output of the power source, the electrical storage unit further comprising a second DC output. An inverter coupled to the second DC output receives power, the inverter having a first AC output that can be synchronized with an AC load bus or AC grid. The system includes a contactor connected between the first AC output and an AC load bus, and is controllable with an external controller operated by a utility or a managing entity, such that the external controller can enable the controller to connect or disconnect the contactor.