Heat Pump Inverter Control Using Grid Frequency and Voltage Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current heat pump systems with inverter technology lack a control logic to manage unexpected grid overloads and deviations in electricity grid frequency and voltage, which can lead to reduced reliability and lifespan of components and increased risk of blackouts.
Innovation Solution
An electrically powered heat pump system with a control unit that measures and responds to real-time grid frequency and voltage deviations, adjusting the power consumption of the compressor and/or electrical backup heater to prevent imminent blackouts during grid overloads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heat pump systems automatically compensate for power loss to maintain operation during grid fluctuations, then the system remains operational and meets heating/cooling demand, but the reliability and lifespan of components deteriorates due to extended operation under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The control logic applies preliminary anti-action by proactively reducing compressor power before grid conditions cause component damage. When grid frequency or voltage deviations are detected, the system preemptively modulates compressor power downward, preventing the harmful effects of extended operation under electrical stress while maintaining basic heating/cooling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamics by making the compressor power adjustable and responsive to real-time grid conditions. The inverter technology enables continuous modulation of compressor speed and power consumption, allowing the system to adapt its operational characteristics dynamically based on grid frequency and voltage measurements, thus balancing component protection with operational needs.
2Reliability
If heat pump systems operate at full power during grid overload, then heating and cooling demand is met, but the risk of blackout increases due to grid overload
Solution Approach 1:
The control logic implements feedback by continuously monitoring grid frequency and voltage parameters and using this information to adjust compressor power consumption. The system measures actual grid conditions, compares them to nominal values, and modulates power consumption accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to grid status in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies parameter changes by modifying the compressor's power consumption parameter based on detected grid frequency and voltage deviations. When grid frequency drops below or rises above nominal thresholds, or when voltage deviations are detected, the control logic adjusts the compressor power parameter downward, directly changing the energy consumption to align with grid capacity.
3Reliability
If heat pump systems use inverter technology to adjust compressor speed, then system efficiency and longevity improve, but the system lacks control logic to manage unexpected grid overloads
Solution Approach 1:
The control logic applies preliminary action by implementing predetermined response strategies for grid overload conditions. The system has pre-programmed thresholds and modulation curves that are activated when specific grid frequency or voltage deviation levels are reached, allowing the heat pump to respond appropriately to grid fluctuations without requiring complex real-time decision-making algorithms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates generally to heat pump systems enabled with inverter technology. More specifically, the invention pertains to the control logic of these systems, enabling them to adjust their power consumption in response to fluctuations in the electricity grid's frequency and voltage which relate the indication of the grid overload.