Microgrid Configuration Framework for Real-Time Asset Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring microgrids for optimized performance is challenging due to unique energy requirements and competing economic, environmental, and regulatory priorities, requiring advanced control strategies and sophisticated algorithms to balance supply and demand in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for configuring a microgrid that involves receiving configuration inputs from an operator, classifying assets and asset groups based on energy resources data, and generating a microgrid configuration for automatic operation, including an electrical bus, assets, loads, and a system controller that processes configuration inputs to optimize microgrid performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If microgrids are configured with customized software for site-specific requirements, then the microgrid can be optimized for specific operational needs, but the configuration process becomes expensive and time-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration framework that can handle multiple site-specific requirements through a single standardized interface. The system uses a library of pre-defined asset types and configuration templates that can be adapted to different sites without requiring custom software development, thus achieving site-specific optimization while maintaining efficient configuration processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures asset types, parameters, and operational templates before deployment to specific sites. By preparing configuration frameworks in advance that can be customized through simple parameter adjustments rather than full software customization, the system reduces on-site configuration time while maintaining adaptability to specific operational requirements
2Productivity
If microgrids use advanced control strategies and sophisticated algorithms to balance supply and demand in real-time, then operational optimization is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the microgrid system automatically balances supply and demand using pre-configured control strategies. The system autonomously adjusts asset operation, load management, and energy flow based on real-time conditions without requiring complex external control algorithms, thus achieving operational optimization while limiting the need for sophisticated control infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors operational parameters and automatically adjusts asset configuration and operation. This closed-loop approach enables real-time supply-demand balancing through straightforward control logic that responds to actual system conditions, achieving efficiency gains without requiring overly complex predictive algorithms
3Loss of energy
If microgrids integrate multiple distributed energy assets with unique energy requirements, then energy efficiency and renewable utilization are improved, but configuration and operation become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the microgrid system into standardized asset types and functional groups that can be independently configured and managed. By dividing the complex system into modular components with defined interfaces and characteristics, the system can integrate multiple distributed energy assets with unique requirements while maintaining manageable configuration and operation through systematic classification and standardized procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A method of configuring a microgrid including: receiving configuration inputs from an operator, the configuration inputs including an intended bus structure, a plurality of energy resources data, and energy resources priorities; classifying assets and asset groups based on the plurality of energy resources data; and generating a microgrid configuration based on the one or more configuration inputs, the microgrid configuration providing for automatic operation of the microgrid.