Microgrid Energy Storage Dispatch for Generator Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In microgrids, conventional energy storage unit control methods lack real-time adaptability to generation and demand variations, leading to inefficient operations and increased costs due to passive control strategies that do not account for the unique efficiency characteristics of each energy source.
Innovation Solution
A method that selects an efficient combination of energy resources, assesses the state of charge and efficiency of storage units, and sends dispatch commands to generators and storage units to maximize overall efficiency, keeping storage units idle when charging or discharging does not enhance system efficiency, and calculates optimal charge or discharge levels to enhance generator efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive control strategies (peak-shaving or schedule-based control) are used for energy storage units, then the control system is simple to implement, but the system cannot adapt to real-time changes in generation and demand levels, leading to suboptimal operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control by continuously monitoring real-time generation and demand levels, and adjusting storage unit operations accordingly. The controller dynamically determines charge/discharge decisions based on current system conditions rather than following fixed schedules or simple threshold rules, enabling the system to adapt to varying operational conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated real-time optimization.
2Device complexity
If storage units are charged or discharged without considering generator efficiency characteristics, then the control logic is simple, but the overall system efficiency decreases due to excessive losses during low-efficiency generation periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously receives information about generator efficiency characteristics and current operational status. Based on this feedback, the controller makes informed decisions about when to charge or discharge storage units, avoiding operations that would occur during low-efficiency generation periods. This feedback-driven approach optimizes system efficiency by aligning storage operations with favorable generator performance conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of storage units based on generator efficiency characteristics. By monitoring parameters such as generator load levels and efficiency curves, the system adjusts storage charge/discharge rates and timing to coincide with high-efficiency generation periods. This parameter-based control strategy reduces energy losses by avoiding storage operations during inefficient generation conditions without requiring overly complex control logic.
3Ease of operation
If the battery operates without proper control to balance supply and demand, then the system is simpler to operate, but the battery experiences irregular charge/discharge patterns that reduce battery lifetime and increase operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service control mechanism where the system automatically monitors its own state of charge, generation levels, and demand conditions, and makes autonomous decisions about charge/discharge operations. The controller uses real-time data from system sensors to determine optimal battery operations, eliminating the need for manual intervention while preventing irregular charge/discharge patterns that would harm battery lifetime. This automated self-management approach maintains operational simplicity while ensuring reliable battery operation through continuous adaptive control.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a method or management system which 1) dispatches high efficiency generators first, 2) charges/discharges energy storage units in a way to enhance efficiency of generators in the system or avoid the necessity of dispatching generators during their low efficiency operations at all. In this way the method or management system utilizes its knowledge about the efficiency characteristics of generators in the system and its ability to change the net demand seen by the generators through charge and discharge of energy storage units to increase the overall efficiency of the energy system.