Mobile Microgrid Field Tester for Real-World Load Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing microgrid functionalities are inefficient, costly, and labor-intensive, lacking the ability to simulate real-world scenarios and precise test results, particularly in creating a testing environment for microgrids and other local electric power systems.
Innovation Solution
A local electric power system (EPS) field tester equipped with mobile deployment equipment, including land vehicles and transportable containers, that incorporates its own switchgear and load banks to simulate both linear and non-linear loads, enabling comprehensive field testing of microgrids and other local EPS systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional load banks and switchgear are used for microgrid testing, then testing capability is provided, but cost and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The microgrid testing system is designed to be self-sufficient by integrating its own switchgear, load banks, and control equipment. The system can independently perform testing operations without requiring external testing infrastructure, thereby reducing both cost and labor requirements while maintaining comprehensive testing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system is designed as a universal platform that can test multiple microgrid functionalities (islanding, synchronization, load management) using integrated equipment. The switchgear and load banks can serve multiple testing purposes, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment for each test type
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional testing methods are used, then basic testing is possible, but ability to simulate real-world scenarios and achieve precise test results is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates variable load banks that can dynamically adjust electrical parameters (resistance, inductance, power factor) to simulate different real-world loading conditions. The switchgear can create various switching scenarios and transient events, enabling precise reproduction of actual operational conditions for accurate testing
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated switchgear and control equipment act as intermediaries between the testing system and the microgrid under test. These components enable precise control and measurement of testing parameters, facilitating accurate simulation of real-world scenarios while maintaining systematic control over the testing process
3Adaptability or versatility
If microgrids operate in islanded mode with full coordination requirements, then self-sufficiency is achieved, but operational complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into modular functional units that can operate independently or in coordination. This allows the microgrid to transition between grid-connected and islanded modes by activating or deactivating specific control modules, reducing overall operational complexity while maintaining flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adapts its coordination requirements based on operational mode. In grid-connected mode, full coordination is maintained; in islanded mode, the system automatically adjusts control strategies to reduce complexity while ensuring safe and reliable operation, leveraging real-time system state assessment
Data Source
AI summary
A local electric power system (EPS) field tester is provided for field testing of a local EPS. The local EPS has distributed energy resources (DERs) and is capable of operating in conjunction with, or independently from, an external power system while supplying load(s). The local EPS field tester comprises local EPS testing equipment deployed in and/or on mobile deployment equipment. The local EPS testing equipment includes a gateway (for relaying signaling between the local EPS field tester and a local EPS controller of the local EPS), a power distribution busbar, and various switchgear including local EPS connection switchgear, DER connection switchgear, and load connection switchgear. The local EPS testing equipment further includes load controller equipment configured to emulate or simulate a load controller of the local EPS, according to signaling from the local EPS controller or an emulated or simulated SCADA/DMS system as relayed by the gateway.