Distributed Load Disconnect via Smart Meter Frequency Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The electrical grid faces instability and potential catastrophic failure due to overload, necessitating load shedding, which is typically done by disconnecting services to large areas, but this approach can be inefficient and inconvenient. Existing methods lack precision in disconnecting and reconnecting loads based on real-time power line frequency fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A frequency-based distributed load disconnect system using smart electricity meters that monitor power line frequency and automatically disconnect loads when the frequency drops below a threshold, allowing for targeted and controlled load shedding and reconnection, thereby maintaining grid stability without widespread service disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If load shedding is performed by disconnecting services to large areas, then grid stability is maintained, but customer convenience deteriorates due to widespread service disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the load shedding process by implementing frequency-based disconnect thresholds that automatically disconnect individual premises or groups of premises when grid frequency drops below specified levels. This segmentation allows targeted load reduction rather than widespread disconnection, maintaining grid stability while minimizing impact on individual customers whose premises are not yet at the disconnect threshold.
2Reliability
If traditional load shedding methods are used, then grid overload is prevented, but precision in disconnecting and reconnecting loads based on real-time frequency fluctuations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements dynamic load control by continuously monitoring grid frequency and automatically adjusting load disconnection status based on real-time frequency measurements. The system uses multiple frequency thresholds (e.g., 59.0 Hz, 58.5 Hz, 58.0 Hz) to dynamically disconnect or reconnect loads as frequency fluctuates, providing precise control that adapts to changing grid conditions rather than using static on/off control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the electricity meter continuously measures grid frequency and uses this information to control the disconnect switch. When frequency drops below a threshold, the meter triggers disconnection; when frequency recovers above the threshold, the meter triggers reconnection. This closed-loop feedback ensures precise frequency-based control of load disconnection and reconnection.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and system for disconnecting loads from the electrical grid based on a power line frequency are disclosed. An electricity meter may monitor a power line frequency of a source power line connected to the electricity meter, and in response to determining that the power line frequency is lower than a disconnect threshold frequency, may open an internal switch and disconnect a load side output of the electricity meter from the source power line.