Microgrid Control Software for Bi-Directional Power Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microgrid technologies lack standardized bus architectures for managing AC to AC, DC to DC, AC to DC, and DC to AC across multiple inputs and outputs, and are unable to dynamically manage bi-directional electrical flows and rapidly respond to power supply interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A microgrid system with integrated sensors and controllers that communicate with a control software layer to manage power flow across multiple inputs and outputs, using converters to adapt power from various sources and storage devices, and a control software module that executes instructions to ensure reliable power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized bus architecture is implemented for managing AC to AC, DC to DC, AC to DC, and DC to AC across multiple inputs and outputs, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microgrid system is divided into separate AC and DC bus architectures, each handling specific power conversion tasks. AC-AC conversion, DC-DC conversion, AC-DC conversion, and DC-AC conversion are managed through dedicated converters and control modules, breaking down the complex power management into manageable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The control software module is designed to universally manage multiple types of power conversions and bidirectional power flows through a single integrated platform. The system can handle diverse renewable and conventional power sources, energy storage devices, and various load types through standardized control interfaces and communication protocols.
2Productivity
If intelligent sensors and controllers are used to dynamically manage bi-directional electrical flows, then productivity and response time are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Intelligent sensors continuously monitor power flow, voltage, current, and other parameters in the microgrid system. This real-time data is fed back to the control software module, which automatically adjusts converter operations and switching actions to optimize power distribution and respond to interruptions, creating a closed-loop control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control software module autonomously manages bidirectional power flows without requiring external intervention. It automatically detects power supply interruptions, switches to alternate sources, balances load distribution, and coordinates energy storage charging/discharging operations through self-contained control algorithms and decision-making logic.
3Reliability
If control software module with sensing and actuation capabilities is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control software module is pre-programmed with algorithms to detect power supply interruptions and automatically switch to alternate power sources before complete power failure occurs. Energy storage devices are pre-charged to ready states, and converter switching sequences are pre-configured to ensure seamless transitions, maintaining continuous reliable power supply to critical loads.
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 deterministic real-time control over bi-directional power sources from diverse renewable and conventional sources, allowing the microgrid to respond to power supply interruptions and switch to alternate sources, ensuring reliable power distribution across multiple inputs and outputs.
Implementation Method 1
A converter converts DC power to AC power for transmission on the AC output bus
Implementation Method 2
A converter coupled to the AC grid input bus converts the AC power to DC power for delivery via the DC bus
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described herein for a microgrid module. The microgrid module can receive power from either AC or DC sources and output either AC or DC power as needed. The microgrid module includes transformers and/or power converters necessary for modifying the input AC or DC power sources to meet the required characteristics of the output power. The microgrid module further comprises a control software module installed on a microgrid computer. The control software module receives information from sensors installed in the microgrid module and sends commands to controllable elements installed in the microgrid module for the purpose of controlling the power through the microgrid in a manner consistent with power requirements of various loads and the power available from multiple and diverse sources and internal and/or external energy storage devices.