Electrolysis Output Control Under Fluctuating Energy Supply
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrolysis processes face challenges in controlling energy supply fluctuations, wear, safety, and ecological issues, particularly in large-scale industrial applications, with known control methods being insufficient for managing fluctuating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A three-level control process is implemented, determining set points for production output, process parameters, and control parameters through mathematical functions that account for predicted demand, degradation effects, and market fluctuations, using MINLP optimization engines to adjust electrical current, temperatures, and other parameters in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known control methods are used for electrolysis, then the process can be operated, but the availability and efficiency are insufficient under fluctuating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system transitions from static known control methods to a dynamic multi-level control process that continuously adapts to fluctuating conditions. The three-level hierarchy (production output set point, process parameter set points, control parameter set points) enables real-time adjustment of control parameters based on current operating conditions, renewable energy availability, and product demand, thereby improving both reliability and adaptability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback-based control system where control parameters are continuously adjusted based on measured process parameters and predicted degradation effects. The minimization of mathematical functions incorporating real-time data and predictions creates a closed-loop feedback mechanism that enhances the system's ability to handle fluctuating conditions while maintaining high availability
2Productivity
If control parameters are adjusted to optimize production output, then productivity increases, but equipment degradation accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically changes operating parameters (control parameters and process parameters) based on real-time conditions and predicted degradation effects. By minimizing a mathematical function that incorporates both production output and degradation predictions, the system optimizes the balance between productivity and equipment lifespan, adjusting parameters such as electrical current, temperature, and flow rates to prevent excessive degradation while maintaining high production levels
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by predicting future degradation effects before they occur. The minimization function incorporates predicted degradation effects, allowing the control system to proactively adjust control parameters to prevent excessive wear and extend equipment lifespan before degradation actually occurs, rather than reacting after damage has been done
3Ease of operation
If a simple control method is used, then the system is easy to operate, but it cannot adequately respond to fluctuating renewable energy supply
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into three distinct levels: production output set point determination, process parameter set point determination, and control parameter set point determination. This segmentation allows each level to focus on specific aspects of control, making the complex system more manageable and easier to operate while simultaneously enhancing the ability to respond to fluctuating renewable energy supply through specialized control at each level
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
This approach enables reliable and efficient electrolysis operations, particularly under fluctuating conditions, ensuring optimal production output, safety, and reduced ecological impact by closely managing energy use and equipment performance.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining a product by electrolysis... electrolysis of water in order to obtain hydrogen and oxygen as products
Data Source
AI summary
A method for obtaining a product by electrolysis, including: a) determining a set point for a production output by minimizing a first mathematical function, which depends on the production output and on a predicted product demand; b) determining respective set points for multiple process parameters by minimizing a second mathematical function, which depends on the set point for the production output determined in a), on the process parameters and on predicted degradation effects; c) determining respective set points for changes of multiple control parameters by minimizing a third mathematical function, which depends on the set points for the process parameters determined in b) and on the changes of the control parameters; and d) obtaining the product by performing the electrolysis using the set points for the changes of the control parameters determined in c).