Decentralized Power Grid Modular Generator Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems lack the ability to efficiently optimize the use of multiple independent power generating systems integrated into a single structure, such as a house, leading to inefficiencies and the need for replacing entire building components when individual power generators fail.

Innovation Solution

A decentralized system comprising multiple discrete power generators, energy storage devices, and a computational controller that optimizes charging and discharging of each storage device, allowing for independent operation and replacement of generators without replacing structural components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If solar cells are integrated directly into building materials such as roof tiles, then power generation capability is improved, but replacement cost and complexity increases when solar cells fail

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidreplacement cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the power generation function from the building structure by using separate, modular solar generators that can be independently installed and replaced. Each generator is a discrete unit connected to the building's electrical system through standardized interfaces, allowing failure of one generator not to compromise the entire system or require structural modification for replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple power generating systems are integrated into a single structure, then energy self-sufficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy self-sufficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The computational controller automatically manages the multiple power generating systems and energy storage devices without requiring manual intervention. The system self-optimizes by calculating which generators should operate, how energy should be distributed, and when storage devices should charge or discharge, thereby managing complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines multiple independent power generating systems and energy storage devices into a unified controlled network, where they work together as an integrated whole. The computational controller merges their outputs and manages their coordination, allowing them to function collectively to improve reliability while the controller handles the complexity of their interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If centralized power generation system is used, then system control is simplified, but energy distribution efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem control simplicityVSAvoidenergy distribution efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows different parts of the building to have different power generation and storage characteristics tailored to their specific needs. Each generator and storage device can be optimally sized and positioned for its local requirements, and the computational controller distributes energy efficiently to where it is needed, reducing transmission losses while maintaining simplified control through centralized optimization algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7888820B2Delocalized intrastructure power grid and devices
Publication Date: 2011.02.15 TESLA INC
  • US7888820B2 patent drawing
  • US7888820B2 patent drawing
  • US7888820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a delocalized power generation system with computer controls and storage optimization capacity. A plurality of power generating systems is linked to a building along with a plurality of electrical storage means. By selectively charging and discharging the storage means and by selectively picking which electrical generating means one uses, the generation of power to the structure is maximized.