Intelligent Transfer Switching for Real-Time Multi-Source Power Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current transfer switch systems lack flexibility and intelligence, unable to utilize real-time updates and external data for dynamic decision-making, and are limited to rigid operational rules, failing to address complex energy systems and emerging use cases that require optimal cost, reliability, and sustainability.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a connectivity platform and cloud software infrastructure for intelligent decision-making, enabling real-time interaction through user interfaces, and integrating with external data sources for flexible operation, including energy metering and communication subsystems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional manual changeover switches or automatic transfer switches are used, then the system provides basic power switching functionality, but the system lacks flexibility and intelligence to utilize real-time data and external information for dynamic decision-making
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: a control system with processor, a connectivity platform for external communication, cloud software infrastructure for data processing, and local user interface. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while collectively providing intelligent adaptability without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A connectivity platform acts as an intermediary between the transfer switch and external data sources (weather services, energy pricing APIs, grid status feeds). This intermediary layer enables the system to access real-time external information without directly complicating the core switching mechanism, bridging the gap between simple hardware and complex data requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigidly programmed rules and thresholds are used for switching decisions, then the system operates reliably according to predefined criteria, but the system cannot utilize dynamic external information or make flexible operational adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects real-time data from multiple sources including weather conditions, energy pricing, grid status, and user preferences through the connectivity platform. The processor analyzes this feedback loop of incoming data against current system state to dynamically adjust switching decisions, maintaining reliability through continuous monitoring while enabling adaptability through real-time response to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, pre-programmed switching rules to dynamic decision-making where operational parameters can change in real-time based on incoming data. The processor continuously evaluates multiple factors (weather forecasts, energy prices, grid reliability) and adjusts switching behavior dynamically, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining operational integrity through structured decision algorithms.
3Productivity
If the system operates without external connectivity and cloud infrastructure, then the system remains simple and easy to operate, but the system cannot access real-time updates or external data sources for optimized performance
Solution Approach 1:
The connectivity platform and cloud infrastructure provide multiple functions simultaneously: collecting real-time data from various external sources, processing and analyzing information, communicating with user devices, and storing historical data. This multi-functionality enables comprehensive performance optimization without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function, managing complexity through consolidated multi-purpose components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages its own operation by collecting, processing, and acting on external data without requiring manual intervention. The processor autonomously evaluates incoming information against operational criteria and executes switching decisions independently, while the cloud infrastructure self-manages data storage and retrieval. This self-service capability enables advanced optimization while maintaining ease of operation through automated decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
The present inventive concepts comprise a connected, intelligent transfer switch system that permits remote metering, monitoring and control of energy sources connected to a device both by hardwired and wireless connection, and the method for operating this system is disclosed. The inventive concepts represent a significant improvement upon existing transfer switch systems by incorporating advanced monitoring and control capabilities of all energy resources connected to a building, such as fossil-fuel powered generators, battery storage systems, solar photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines, utility grid connections, controllable loads, or other technologies which generate, store or consume energy. The inventive concepts further provide means for flexible and intelligent operation of these resources through a dedicated network communication connection which enables advanced operational decision-making to determine optimal switching actions and real-time interaction through user-facing digital interfaces.