Distributed Grid Intelligence Controller for Latency and Scalability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized utility control systems face challenges in scalability, latency, and integration across the electric grid due to their inflexible architecture, which hinders the effective distribution of intelligence and efficient management of complex smart grid operations.
Innovation Solution
A distributed intelligence platform with a grid service controller that directs grid devices to capable service devices based on state and locality, enabling variable topology and auto-discovery for efficient grid control operations, reducing latency and improving scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If centralized control systems are used for utility grid management, then system control and coordination are simplified, but scalability and operational efficiency deteriorate as the grid expands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized control system into distributed intelligence units deployed across multiple locations in the grid. Each unit operates autonomously while contributing to overall system coordination, enabling the grid to scale by adding more distributed units without requiring a complete rearchitecture of the control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by implementing control intelligence across spatial dimensions rather than concentrating it in a single central location. This multi-dimensional distributed architecture allows the system to handle increased complexity and scale by utilizing parallel processing paths across different grid locations.
2Reliability
If centralized control systems are used, then system-wide coordination is achieved, but operational latency increases due to centralized processing bottlenecks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized processing function into multiple distributed processing units that can operate independently and in parallel. This segmentation eliminates the single-point processing bottleneck, allowing simultaneous handling of multiple control operations across different grid segments, thereby reducing overall operational latency while maintaining coordination through standardized communication protocols.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed topology control architecture is used, then system design and implementation are simplified, but adaptability to dynamic grid conditions and legacy system integration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic topology control architecture where the system configuration can adapt to changing grid conditions and integrate with various legacy systems. The distributed intelligence units can dynamically adjust their operational parameters, communication paths, and service capabilities based on real-time grid state, enabling flexible integration while maintaining relatively simple implementation through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a grid service controller receives advertisements from one or more grid service devices that indicate one or more grid control operations for which a corresponding grid service device is capable, and also maintains state and locality of the grid service devices. In response to receiving a request from a grid device for a particular grid control operation, the grid service controller may then direct the grid device to a particular grid service device capable of providing the particular grid control operation for the grid device based on the state and locality of the grid service devices, accordingly.