DER Coordination Controller for Power Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) into dynamic distribution systems faces challenges in smooth transition between isolation and grid modes, and effective utilization of power generation and storage resources, particularly due to limited awareness and communication among independent producers, necessitating a method that relies on local information for coordination.

Innovation Solution

A coordination controller that determines the mode of operation for energy storage and power generation devices based on energy levels and load conditions, setting minimum and maximum power points for both, enabling efficient power transfer and management within the DER system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If DERs operate independently with limited communication, then system complexity is reduced, but coordination efficiency and resource utilization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The control method enables each DER to autonomously determine its operating mode and adjust power output based on local energy level measurements and predefined control strategies, without requiring complex centralized communication or coordination infrastructure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (power output levels, charging/discharging rates) based on measured energy levels and predefined thresholds, allowing efficient resource utilization through simple parameter adjustments rather than complex coordination

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If storage devices discharge at high rates, then power supply responsiveness is improved, but energy level and operational duration deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower response speedVSAvoidstorage energy duration
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The control method dynamically adjusts the discharge rate of storage devices based on real-time energy level measurements and operational mode, optimizing the balance between response speed and energy conservation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the power output parameter of storage devices based on energy level thresholds and operational mode, allowing high discharge rates only when energy levels permit, thus maintaining both responsiveness and operational duration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Power

If generation devices operate at maximum capacity, then power output is improved, but system adaptability to load variations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeneration power outputVSAvoidload matching flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control method dynamically adjusts generation device output based on operational mode and system needs, allowing maximum power output when required while maintaining flexibility to reduce output when load conditions change

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the power output parameter of generation devices based on operational mode and load conditions, enabling adaptability through parameter adjustment rather than fixed maximum operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7920942B2Control of combined storage and generation in distributed energy resources
Publication Date: 2011.04.05 WISCONSIN ALUMNI RES FOUND
  • US7920942B2 patent drawing
  • US7920942B2 patent drawing
  • US7920942B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A microsource is provided, which includes an energy storage device, a power generation device, and a controller. The energy storage device is operably coupled for power transfer to a load through a first power bus. The power generation device is operably coupled for power transfer to the load through a second power bus. The controller determines a mode of operation for the energy storage device and the power generation device based on an energy level of the energy storage device and on the load; determines minimum power set points and maximum power set points for the energy storage device and the power generation device based on the determined mode of operation, on a storage output power measured at the first power bus, and on a generation output power measured at the second power bus; and controls an output power of the energy storage device and an output power of the power generation device based on the determined minimum and maximum power set points.