Interconnection Meter Socket Adapter for Renewable Energy Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distribution panels often require upgrading or replacement when increased electrical loads or renewable energy integration exceeds their capacity, with limitations in physical space and compliance with utility standards, and lack real-time bi-directional power flow monitoring.
Innovation Solution
An interconnection meter socket adapter system that connects multiple electrical sources and sinks to a power grid without upgrading the distribution panel, using a power regulation module with switches and measurement modules to manage net power consumption and bi-directional power flow, and includes a DC-AC inverter for renewable energy integration, while maintaining compliance with utility standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the distribution panel capacity is increased to accommodate higher electrical loads or renewable energy integration, then the power handling capability is improved, but the device complexity and upgrade costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the power management function by introducing an external power management device that handles renewable energy integration and load management separately from the existing distribution panel. This allows the panel to maintain its original capacity while the external device manages additional power flows, avoiding the need to upgrade the panel itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management device acts as an intermediary between the renewable energy sources and the distribution panel. It interfaces with the panel through standard connections while managing the complex bidirectional power flows, energy storage charging/discharging, and load prioritization, thereby protecting the panel from complexity while enabling enhanced power handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distribution panel is upgraded to accommodate back-feed from renewable energy sources, then the adaptability to renewable energy integration is improved, but the manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power management device is designed as a universal solution that can integrate multiple functions: renewable energy acceptance, energy storage management, load control, and bidirectional power flow management. It interfaces with standard distribution panel connections, making it adaptable to existing panels without requiring custom upgrades for each installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary power management actions by pre-charging energy storage devices when renewable energy is available and pre-managing load prioritization. This allows the system to be ready for power fluctuations without requiring real-time panel upgrades, enabling renewable energy integration at the original panel capacity.
3Measurement precision
If real-time bi-directional power flow monitoring is implemented, then the power flow management precision is improved, but the measurement and control complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power management device implements continuous feedback monitoring of bidirectional power flows between renewable energy sources, energy storage devices, and the distribution panel. This feedback enables real-time adjustments to charging/discharging rates and load distribution, achieving precise power flow management through automated control algorithms rather than complex hardware modifications.
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
Enables efficient connection of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems to the grid without upgrading the distribution panel, allowing real-time monitoring and management of power flow, thus avoiding the need for costly panel upgrades and ensuring compliance with utility standards.
Implementation Method 1
an interconnect socket adapter configured with an energy storage source/sink, the interconnect socket adapter enabling connection of the energy storage source/sink to a distribution panel
Implementation Method 2
includes a DC-AC inverter for renewable energy integration
Data Source
AI summary
Interconnection meter socket adapters are provided. An interconnection meter socket adapter comprises a housing enclosing a set of electrical connections. The interconnection meter socket adapter may be configured to be coupled to a standard distribution panel and a standard electric meter, thereby establishing connections between a distribution panel and a user such that electrical power may be delivered to the user while an electrical meter measures the power consumption of the user. A power regulation module is disposed between the interconnection meter socket adapter, and configured to selectively connect one or more energy sources or energy sinks.