Distributed Energy Edge Unit for Real-Time Grid and Storage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distributed energy systems are limited by high costs, lack of harmonized grid inter-connection standards, and the need for large and cumbersome power storage and supply devices, which hinder their widespread adoption and efficient coordination.
Innovation Solution
A distributed energy system edge unit with a power grid interface, processing unit, and communication capabilities that allows for monitoring, control, and data exchange, enabling efficient operation and coordination with the power grid and other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distributed power systems are implemented with battery storage and energy generation, then back-up power and load shifting capabilities are improved, but system cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple distributed energy resources (solar panels, wind turbines, generators) with battery storage systems into an integrated hybrid power system. This merging of previously separate components into a unified system manages complexity through coordinated control while delivering comprehensive back-up power and load shifting capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid power system is designed to perform multiple functions: generating power from renewable sources, storing energy in batteries, providing back-up power during grid failures, and enabling load shifting to optimize energy usage. This multi-functionality addresses various reliability needs within a single system framework.
2Reliability
If large battery storage devices are used to support entire electrical load, then power supply reliability is improved, but device size and cumbersome operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large battery system, the patent divides the storage capacity into multiple smaller battery units that can be distributed throughout the facility. Each battery unit independently supports portions of the electrical load, maintaining reliability while reducing the operational complexity associated with managing one large storage device.
3Power
If distributed energy sources are deployed at individual sites, then energy generation capability is improved, but lack of harmonized grid inter-connection standards prevents widespread adoption
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with universal communication capabilities that can interface with multiple grid operators and accommodate different inter-connection standards. This universality enables the distributed energy system to generate power effectively while adapting to various grid environments without requiring site-specific customizations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If distributed power systems are implemented without coordination, then individual site energy independence is improved, but lack of coordination reduces overall system utilization efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the operational status, energy production, and storage levels of each distributed power system. This feedback enables autonomous units to adjust their operation in response to grid conditions and coordination signals, maintaining energy independence while optimizing overall system utilization through informed decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with aspects of the present invention a distributed energy system edge unit is presented. An edge unit includes a power grid interface; one or more device interfaces; a processing unit coupled to the power grid interface and the one or more device interfaces, the processing unit including a communication state that allows communications with an external entity; a control and monitor state that communicates with the communication state; a check unit state that communicates with the control and monitor state and provides a unit state data; wherein the control and monitor state and the communication state provide an instruction data set, current operating parameters according to the unit state data, the instruction set data, and a characterization parameter data, and wherein the control and monitor state provides control signals to the power grid interface and the one or more device interfaces.