Grid-Tied Controller for Distributed Energy Plug-in and Load Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high labor costs and lack of standardization in installing Micro Distributed Renewable Generation (MDRG) and Intelligent Micro Distributed Load Management (IMDLM) systems for homes and small businesses, along with the need for efficient management of peak demand and energy conservation, are not adequately addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A standardized system and method for plug-in connection of electric energy sources, utilizing a Grid-Tied Controller (GTC) with Smart Load Management functionality, enabling automated and unattended operation through bidirectional communication and IP Networked Communication, which simplifies installation, manages energy use, and controls peak loads by sequencing appliance startup and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If traditional centralized power generation and transmission is used, then power supply stability is maintained, but transmission capacity limitations and environmental pollution occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized power generation system into distributed generation units at consumer premises. Each unit independently generates power locally, eliminating the need for long-distance transmission and reducing environmental pollution while maintaining supply reliability through multiple distributed sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional centralized generation model to a multi-dimensional distributed generation network. Power can be generated and consumed at multiple locations simultaneously, with bidirectional communication enabling coordination across the network to maintain stability while reducing environmental impact.
2Quantity of substance
If Micro Distributed Renewable Generation (MDRG) systems are deployed, then transmission capacity demands are reduced, but installation complexity and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal plug-in connection design that can interface with various MDRG systems and existing electrical infrastructure. The standardized connection protocol and modular architecture allow different generation technologies to be integrated without increasing installation complexity, reducing transmission capacity demands through localized power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication interface and control system as an intermediary between the MDRG system and the utility grid. This intermediary manages the integration complexity by providing standardized protocols for power flow control, monitoring, and coordination, thereby reducing transmission capacity demands while keeping installation complexity manageable.
3Ease of manufacture
If MDRG sites are independently operated, then installation costs are reduced, but Grid stability control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements bidirectional communication between independently operated MDRG sites and the utility grid controller. Real-time feedback on power generation, consumption, and grid conditions enables automated coordination that maintains grid stability while preserving the cost benefits of independent operation through standardized plug-in connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables MDRG sites to autonomously manage their own power generation and consumption through intelligent control systems. Each site monitors its own operational parameters and automatically adjusts power flow to maintain grid stability, reducing the need for complex centralized control while keeping installation costs low through standardized interfaces.
4Reliability
If Peak Demand management is implemented through Load Shaving, then Grid stability is maintained, but energy consumption and operational flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load management that actively sequences appliance startup and adjusts power consumption based on real-time grid conditions and user preferences. This dynamic approach maintains grid stability during peak demand periods while minimizing energy consumption through intelligent scheduling rather than simple load shaving, preserving operational flexibility through programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic monitoring and control of power consumption patterns to anticipate and manage peak demand periods. By analyzing historical usage data and grid conditions, the system proactively schedules high-consumption activities during off-peak periods, maintaining grid stability while reducing overall energy consumption and preserving user flexibility through automated periodic adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A standardized system, method and apparatus for connection of any combination of electric energy supply source including the Utility Power Grid, Auxiliary Generator, Wind Turbine, Fuel Cell, Storage Battery, Solar Panel Array, and an Electric Car which are collectively aggregated to feed into the main Service Panel of the Home or Small Business through a single plug-in connection to the Home or Small Business's electrical service entrance and provide for collective operational monitoring and management through an IP Networked Communication Link, commonly referred to as IP Networked Communication across the Internet, thereby providing bidirectional communication and control between the GTC and the Smart Load Management functionality resident on the Internet Cloud.