Dynamic Voltage Regulation for Energy Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical systems face challenges in efficiently managing energy consumption due to static voltage reduction methods that fail to adapt to changing load curves, leading to inefficiencies and increased harmonic distortion, particularly in low voltage systems.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that dynamically regulate the supply voltage to optimize active power consumption by adjusting the voltage level based on the optimal active power value of electric loads, using a combination of modifying and selection means, such as autotransformers and power electronics, to ensure efficient energy use across varying load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If voltage reducers are used to reduce voltage statically, then energy consumption is reduced for resistive loads, but energy savings become scarce or consumption increases for other load types due to intense current peaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage regulation by continuously measuring active power consumption and adjusting the voltage level in real-time based on the actual load characteristics. This allows the system to adapt to different load types (resistive, inductive, capacitive) and varying load curves, avoiding the static voltage reduction approach that causes current peaks for non-resistive loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where a measuring device continuously monitors the active power consumption of the load, and this information is used by the control device to adjust the voltage regulator settings. This closed-loop control ensures optimal energy efficiency while preventing harmful current peaks by responding to actual load conditions rather than applying fixed voltage reduction.
2Ease of operation
If autotransformers with voltage control capacity are used, then voltage regulation is achieved, but system sizing becomes complicated and high harmonic distortion levels are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the autotransformer dynamically by adjusting the transformation ratio based on measured active power consumption. Instead of using a fixed-tap autotransformer, the system continuously varies the voltage transformation ratio to optimize energy efficiency, thereby achieving voltage control without generating excessive harmonics that would result from abrupt tap changes or oversized capacity.
3Reliability
If transformers with cross-winding are used to reduce voltage statically, then phase crossing advantages are obtained, but voltage reduction remains static and constant with same drawbacks as voltage reducers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static voltage reduction capability of cross-winding transformers into a dynamic system by incorporating continuous measurement of active power consumption and automatic adjustment of the voltage level. This allows the transformer to adapt its voltage reduction ratio according to varying load conditions while maintaining the reliability benefits of cross-winding configuration.
4Productivity
If FACTS systems are used to improve energy transmission capacity, then grid capacity and power balance are improved, but system complexity and sophistication increase making them unsuitable for low voltage systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and applies only the essential function of FACTS systems (voltage regulation to optimize power transmission) to low voltage installations, eliminating the complex grid-level control and sophisticated device requirements. By focusing on local active power measurement and simple voltage adjustment, the invention achieves energy efficiency improvements in low voltage systems without the burden of FACTS-level complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution continuously optimizes energy consumption by adjusting voltage levels to match the active power requirements of electric loads, reducing overall energy consumption and operational costs while maintaining efficient system operation.
Implementation Method 1
a device (1) for improving energy efficiency in an electrical installation, comprising: at least one inlet (2) adapted for receiving a power grid supply voltage U, at least one modifying means (7), at least one selection means (8)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and method for regulating the voltage level in electric loads, minimizing energy consumption in an electrical installation. The device for improving energy efficiency in an electrical installation comprises at least one inlet adapted for receiving a power grid supply voltage U, at least one voltage U regulating element, and at least one load voltage UZ supply outlet feeding at least one electric load of the electrical installation, wherein the at least one regulating element is configured for changing the voltage U value according to the optimal active power consumption value of the at least one electric load, obtaining a regulated load voltage UZ corresponding to the voltage level that optimizes active power consumption of the at least one electric load, said regulated load voltage UZ being comprised in a limit voltage range corresponding to the range of operating voltage values of said at least one electric load. The method allows regulating the voltage level with a device according to the invention.