Demand Side Power Management for Electric Utility Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dynamic Demand Control (DDC) systems face challenges in seamlessly integrating into grid networks due to frequency variations, which affect the stability and efficiency of power management, particularly with loads like motors, pumps, and fans, and require substantial inertia that is difficult to achieve with smaller machines.
Innovation Solution
A demand side electric power supply management system that uses a control signal with a frequency indicative of power availability, transmitted over the network, to manage load distribution and prioritize loads, allowing for seamless integration and efficient power utilization without the need for frequency variation, using a system with a set point reference and load controllers that adjust power demand based on available power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Dynamic Demand Control (DDC) systems allow grid frequency to vary in response to power fluctuations, then power management flexibility is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the demand control function by introducing a separate control signal pathway that operates independently from the power flow. The control signal carries frequency information that modulates load operation, while power flows separately through the network. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to power fluctuations without directly varying the grid frequency, thus maintaining stability while achieving flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control signal as an intermediary carrier that conveys power availability information from the supply network to load controllers. This control signal acts as a mediator, translating power conditions into actionable control commands without requiring direct frequency variation of the grid. The intermediary control mechanism decouples the relationship between power fluctuations and frequency changes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DDC systems use frequency variation to control load, then load management capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical frequency variation mechanism with an electrical control signal system. Instead of physically varying the grid frequency to control loads, the system uses an electrical control signal that carries frequency information to modulate load operation. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical inertia and frequency control mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining load management capability.
3Reliability
If DDC systems require substantial inertia for stability, then system reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical inertia requirement with an electrical control signal mechanism. The control signal system provides stability through controlled modulation of loads based on power availability information, eliminating the need for substantial mechanical inertia. This substitution makes the system easier to manufacture and deploy, particularly for smaller machines, while maintaining reliability through active control rather than passive inertia.
Data Source
AI summary
A demand side electric power supply management system is disclosed. The system comprises an islanded power system having a point of coupling to a supply grid. The islanded power system supplies a plurality of electric loads, each of which is associated with a load controller to control the maximum power demanded by that load. A measuring means associated with the point of coupling measures the total power transfer between the grid and the islanded system, and a system controller monitors the measured power transfer relative to a set point and provides a control signal to a plurality of load controllers. Each load controller receives substantially the same control signal and determines the maximum power which the or each load associated with the load controller is allowed to draw from the islanded power system based on information contained in the control signal.