Multiport Microgrid Power Router With Critical Load Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microgrid systems face challenges in efficiently connecting multiple power sources and ensuring resilience, particularly in critical system operations, often requiring complex components and configurations.
Innovation Solution
A microgrid system with a power router and central transformer, connected to power sources and loads via windings, includes a grid bypass and controller that can designate critical ports, automatically adjusting power distribution based on real-time availability and demand to ensure resilience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple power sources are connected to ensure resilient power supply to critical systems, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power sources (utility grid, renewable energy sources, and energy storage systems) into a single integrated microgrid system. The power router consolidates multiple connection paths into one device with multiple ports, allowing seamless power flow management between different sources and critical loads without requiring separate systems for each power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The power router is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple functions: connecting to the utility grid, interfacing with renewable energy sources, managing energy storage systems, and powering critical loads. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated systems for each power source, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Extent of automation
If complex configurations are used to connect multiple power sources, then power distribution control is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power router incorporates automated control that independently manages power flow distribution without requiring manual intervention. The system automatically detects the status of connected power sources and loads, and dynamically routes power accordingly. This self-service capability provides sophisticated power distribution control while maintaining ease of operation, as the system handles complex decisions autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs real-time monitoring and feedback mechanisms to track power availability from various sources and power demand from critical loads. This feedback enables the automated controller to continuously optimize power distribution, adjusting routing decisions based on current system conditions without requiring manual reconfiguration or complex user input.
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 resilient power to critical systems with fewer components by dynamically managing power distribution among multiple sources and loads, enhancing system reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a central transformer connected to power sources and loads via a plurality of windings
Data Source
AI summary
A resilient on-site microgrid system includes a multiport power router directly connected to various energy sources, including batteries, renewable energy sources, and broader grid power, as well as various loads, including electric vehicle chargers. The multiport power router dynamically adjusts power provided from the various power sources and to the various loads, especially to power devices in a nearby facility. The microgrid system includes various bypass systems allowing for powering of critical loads in the event of failure of individual components or pathways within the microgrid system.