Centralized Power Distribution System with Integrated Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power distribution systems for building sites are complex and expensive, requiring numerous pieces of equipment and interfaces to manage power from various sources and loads, lacking a simple and cost-effective solution for production, conversion, distribution, and storage.
Innovation Solution
A centralized electrical power distribution system with a DC bus and AC/DC converters, along with sensors and adapters, that routes power from multiple sources (including alternative energy sources and storage) to loads, using hierarchical sensor communication and a controller to optimize power transmission and storage based on priority and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior art equipment configurations are used to manage power from various sources and loads, then power distribution functionality is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power management functions (rectification, inversion, power factor correction, switching) into a single integrated converter system. The controller manages all these functions through one unified device rather than separate equipment, directly reducing system complexity while maintaining full power distribution versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated converter system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a rectifier for DC loads, an inverter for AC loads, a power factor correction device, and a switch for routing power between sources and loads. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art equipment configurations are used to manage power from various sources and loads, then power distribution functionality is achieved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power management functions into a single integrated converter system, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, installed, and maintained. This consolidation directly lowers system cost while preserving all necessary power distribution capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The universal converter system performs rectification, inversion, power factor correction, and power switching functions in one device, eliminating the need to purchase and install multiple separate pieces of equipment, thereby reducing overall system cost
3Extent of automation
If multiple pieces of equipment and interfaces are used to manage power, then comprehensive power control is achieved, but system simplicity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple power control functions into a single integrated system with one controller that manages all aspects of power distribution, eliminating the need for multiple interfaces and devices while maintaining comprehensive automated control capability
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power distribution system includes an electrical power router with input ports and output ports and distributes an electrical signal received on one of the input ports to one of output ports. An electrical input adapter coupled to one of the input ports and further to couple to an electrical power source receives and convert an electrical signal input from the electrical power source to the electrical signal distributed by the power router. An electrical output adapter coupled to one of the output ports and further to couple to an electrical power load receives and converts the electrical signal distributed by the power router from the one of the output ports to an electrical signal output to the electrical power load. A controller coupled to the electrical input adapter, the electrical output adapter, and the electrical power router, controls transmission of the electrical signal from the electrical input adapter to the electrical output adapter through the electrical power router.