Intelligent Power Controller Nodes for Dynamic Peak Demand Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Residential and commercial power systems face challenges in managing peak energy consumption efficiently, as existing technologies lack effective methods to dynamically adjust power usage across multiple devices in response to varying energy availability and utility demands, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A system of independent power control nodes connected via a communication network that adjust their power consumption based on predefined rules, allowing for decentralized control and override mechanisms to optimize energy usage, reducing peak demand by adjusting the intensity or operation of devices like lighting and appliances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If load shedding practices are implemented to reduce peak demand, then power consumption during peak periods is reduced, but device availability and user convenience deteriorate due to automatic shutdown of high energy consuming equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power consumption of devices based on real-time network conditions and utility signals. Instead of static load shedding that permanently or temporarily shuts down equipment, the system continuously modulates power usage levels, allowing devices to remain operational while adapting to peak demand conditions through adjustable power states.
Solution Approach 2:
Each node in the power network autonomously monitors its own power consumption and automatically adjusts its operation based on received utility signals and local conditions. The system enables devices to self-regulate their power usage without manual intervention or complete shutdown, maintaining operational availability while contributing to peak demand reduction.
2Loss of energy
If variable electric rates are implemented to encourage off-peak energy use, then energy cost efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to the need for dynamic rate structures and consumer response mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where utility companies transmit pricing and demand signals through the power network, and consuming devices automatically receive and respond to these signals by adjusting their operation. This closed-loop feedback system simplifies the overall complexity by enabling automated responses to variable rates, eliminating the need for complex consumer decision-making processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The power network infrastructure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it delivers electrical power to consumers and also transmits control signals containing pricing information and demand responses. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity by utilizing existing infrastructure for dual purposes rather than requiring separate communication channels.
3Adaptability or versatility
If decentralized power control is implemented to allow individual device adjustment, then adaptability to energy availability is improved, but control system complexity increases due to multiple independent nodes requiring coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The power control system is segmented into independent nodes, each capable of autonomous decision-making regarding its own power consumption. Each node monitors local conditions and independently adjusts its operation based on received signals, eliminating the need for centralized control while maintaining system-wide coordination through standardized communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The power network itself serves as an intermediary medium that carries both power and control information between utility companies and consuming devices. This intermediary function simplifies coordination between decentralized nodes by providing a standardized communication channel through which all nodes receive consistent signals and instructions.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a method of operating a node coupled to a power network and a communications link includes receiving a status from a further node coupled to the power network via the communications link, and adjusting a power consumption of a device coupled to the node and powered by the power network based on the status message and based on a first rule set.