DC Power Distribution Network for Emergency Generator Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional energy storage systems require additional synchronization work and high-priced transfer switches to connect emergency generators during power outages, leading to increased costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

An energy storage system with converters and breakers that manage DC power distribution networks, allowing seamless connection of emergency generators without synchronization, using first, second, third, and fourth converters to control voltage and power, and breakers to facilitate power transfer during system accidents.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a transfer switch is used to connect the emergency generator to the system, then the emergency generator can be connected to the AC terminal, but the cost increases and additional synchronization work is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemergency power supply capabilityVSAvoidsynchronization work and transfer switch
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a DC power distribution network as an intermediary between the emergency generator and the load. The emergency generator connects to the DC network through a DC/DC converter, which mediates the power transfer and eliminates the need for direct AC connection and synchronization with the grid. This intermediary DC network simplifies the connection architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the conventional AC-based emergency power connection (requiring transfer switches and synchronization) with a DC-based system. The DC/DC converter electronically manages power flow between the emergency generator and the DC power distribution network, substituting mechanical switch operations and synchronization algorithms with electronic control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a transfer switch is used for emergency generator connection, then power outage preparation is possible, but high-priced transfer switch and synchronization algorithms are needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outage preparationVSAvoidcost of transfer switch and synchronization system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The DC power distribution network serves as a cost-effective intermediary that eliminates the need for expensive transfer switches. The DC/DC converter provides intelligent power management between the emergency generator and the DC network, reducing overall system cost while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating voltage parameter from AC to DC for the emergency power connection. This parameter change enables the use of DC/DC converters instead of AC transfer switches, simplifying the system and reducing costs while maintaining the ability to prepare for and respond to power outages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If algorithm for transfer of emergency generator and power outage is extended, then stable operation of loads is possible, but battery with large capacity is needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable operation of loadsVSAvoidbattery capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The DC power distribution network serves multiple functions: it stores energy from the emergency generator, provides seamless power to loads during outages, and enables bidirectional power flow management. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for oversized batteries, as the DC network itself provides energy buffering and transition capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuous power supply to loads by maintaining the DC power distribution network as an always-active intermediary. The DC/DC converter continuously manages power flow, allowing seamless transitions between grid power and emergency generator power without requiring large battery reserves, as the DC network maintains continuous operational readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables seamless power supply during outages without additional synchronization work, eliminating the need for high-priced transfer switches and synchronization algorithms, and reduces the requirement for large-capacity batteries, thereby lowering costs.

Implementation Method 1

a first converter connected between the system and the DC power distribution network so as to control a voltage of the DC power distribution network

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a battery which is connected to the second converter and in which charging and/or discharging operation is controlled by the second converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBattery charging: Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 3

a third converter connected to the DC power distribution network, an emergency generator which is connected to the third converter and in which power is controlled by the third converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

a fourth converter connected to the DC power distribution network, and a first load which is connected to the fourth converter and in which a voltage is controlled by the fourth converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11205902B2Energy storage system
Publication Date: 2021.12.21 LSIS CO LTD
  • US11205902B2 patent drawing
  • US11205902B2 patent drawing
  • US11205902B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to an energy storage system for managing power of a system and a DC power distribution network linked with the system. In one embodiment, the system comprises a first converter connected between the system and the DC power distribution network so as to control voltage of the DC power distribution network; a second converter connected to the DC power distribution network; a battery which is connected to the second converter and in which a charging/discharging operation is controlled by the second converter; a third converter connected to the DC power distribution network; an emergency generator which is connected to the third converter and in which a power is controlled by the third converter; a fourth converter connected to the DC power distribution network; and a first load which is connected to the fourth converter and in which a voltage is controlled by the fourth converter.