Microgrid Mode Selection for Multi-Source Power Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing microgrid systems lack efficient methods for selecting optimal operating modes based on various power sources and load conditions, leading to suboptimal power distribution and management.

Innovation Solution

A microgrid controller that receives a sequence of operations via a human-machine interface, determines an operating mode from multiple options, and controls power supply interfaces to manage power distribution effectively among different power sources and loads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a microgrid controller manages multiple different types of power supply assets, then the adaptability and versatility of the power supply system is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of control increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the heterogeneous power supply assets into distinct types (synchronous generators, asynchronous generators, inverters) and assigns specific control strategies to each type. This segmentation allows the controller to manage complexity by treating each asset type independently with tailored control parameters, while still achieving versatile power supply management across diverse assets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal controller architecture that can manage multiple types of power supply assets through a standardized interface. The controller determines operating modes based on the specific asset type and applies appropriate control strategies, enabling a single controller to universally manage diverse assets including synchronous generators, asynchronous generators, and inverter-based resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If the microgrid controller determines optimal operating modes from multiple options, then the power management efficiency is improved, but the computational requirements and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveefficiencyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-establishes multiple operating modes with predefined control parameters and strategies for different power supply asset types. Instead of calculating optimal modes in real-time, the controller selects from pre-determined modes based on current system conditions, significantly reducing computational requirements and processing time while maintaining efficient power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the control approach from continuous optimization to discrete mode selection. By defining specific operating modes with predetermined parameter sets (such as reactive power compensation strategies, voltage control levels, and frequency regulation parameters), the system achieves efficient power management through parameter selection rather than continuous calculation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If the system provides detailed control over different types of power supply assets, then the manufacturing precision and control accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates simplified representations or models of complex power supply assets, where each asset type is represented by standardized parameters and characteristics. This copying approach allows detailed control strategies to be applied through simplified interfaces, maintaining control accuracy while improving ease of operation by hiding complex underlying details behind standardized control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS20250300466A1Systems and methods of mode selection in microgrids
Publication Date: 2025.09.25 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US20250300466A1 patent drawing
  • US20250300466A1 patent drawing
  • US20250300466A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for operating a microgrid may include a plurality of microgrid power supply assets of a microgrid, where microgrid power supply assets include a first microgrid power supply asset of a first type and a second microgrid power supply asset different from the first type, and a microgrid controller communicably coupled to the plurality of microgrid power supply assets, and configured to control supply of power from one or more of the plurality of microgrid power supply assets to one or more loads of the microgrid. The microgrid controller may receive, via a human machine interface (HMI), a sequence of operations in which to control power supply to the microgrid; determine an operating mode in which to supply power to the load(s), according to the sequence of operations; and control one or more interfaces according to the operating mode, to control the supply of power to the load(s).