Microgrid Power Conditioning With Converter-Inverter Source Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power conversion systems in microgrids face issues such as lack of modularity and scalability, inefficiencies in energy storage, potential downtime during power outages, and challenges in regulating voltage and power flow, leading to fluctuations in power quality and increased energy consumption.

Innovation Solution

A system that continuously adjusts converter power parameters to satisfy inverter power parameters, utilizing a high discharge battery stack and switching between primary and secondary power supplies to ensure uninterrupted power delivery, with real-time monitoring and graphical displays for optimal performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing standby power systems such as generators are used, then backup power capability is provided, but design, capacity, and maintenance issues limit their effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebackup power effectivenessVSAvoiddesign and maintenance complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional generator-based standby power systems with a battery-based system that uses shorter-lived, easier-to-maintain components. The battery system eliminates complex mechanical parts, fuel storage, and extensive maintenance requirements while providing reliable backup power capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Reliability

If power is transmitted directly without conditioning, then system simplicity is maintained, but power quality fluctuations and reliability issues occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidpower conditioning complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a power conditioning system with converter and inverter components as intermediaries between the power source and the load. These components condition the power to ensure stable voltage and frequency while providing isolation and protection, thereby improving reliability without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If microgrid systems use multiple power sources, then power supply security is improved, but voltage regulation and power flow control become challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply securityVSAvoidvoltage and power flow regulation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a control system that continuously monitors power parameters from multiple sources and adjusts operation accordingly. The system uses feedback mechanisms to regulate voltage and control power flow between primary and secondary sources, ensuring stable operation while maintaining security through diversified power supply.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

4Power

If conventional energy storage systems are used, then power storage capability is provided, but they lack the ability to support high performance and high discharge rates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedischarge rate capabilityVSAvoidenergy storage effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies batteries with particular parameters including at least 860 volts nominal voltage and at least 3C discharge capability. By selecting and configuring batteries with specific voltage and discharge rate parameters, the system achieves both high power output and reliable energy storage functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The system provides reliable and efficient power to customer loads without downtime, supports high-performance energy storage, and ensures seamless power transfer between sources, improving power quality and reducing energy costs.

Implementation Method 1

converting the first input to a first output using a converter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPower conversion:

Implementation Method 2

converting a second input to a second output using the inverter, and supplying power to the customer load

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPower inversion:

Implementation Method 3

at least one high discharge battery stack having at least 860 volts of nominal voltage and at least 3C

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBattery discharge: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS20230369862A1Methods and systems for conditioning and maintaining power transmitted to a customer load from at least one of a primary power supply and a secondary power supply

Publication Date: 2023.11.16 E2COMPLY LLC

AI summary

A method for conditioning and maintaining power transmitted to a customer load from a primary or secondary power supply is disclosed. The method includes receiving a first input from the power supply, converting the first input using a converter, and continuously adjusting at least one converter power parameter to satisfy at least one inverter power parameter. The method determines whether the first output transmitted from the converter to an inverter satisfies the at least one inverter power parameter. If the output satisfies the inverter power parameter, then power is supplied to the customer load without charging or discharging a high discharge battery stack. The method also includes monitoring primary power supply parameters and switching to the secondary power supply if the primary power supply parameter fails to satisfy the respective primary power supply parameter threshold.