Modular Smart Panel Architecture for Scalable Microgrid Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current electrical distribution system and site-level wiring are not well instrumented or controllable, making it difficult to implement sophisticated energy management and adapt to increasing demand from renewable energy sources.
Innovation Solution
A modular architecture for managing site-level electrical power distribution, featuring a customizable smart panel chassis and field-installable hardware modules, along with distributed control loops and wireless communication for enhanced flexibility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the current distribution system and site-level wiring are used, then the system structure is simple and existing infrastructure is maintained, but the system is not well instrumented and not easily controllable for sophisticated energy management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical distribution system into modular components including smart meters, circuit breakers with integrated sensors, and controllable switches. Each module can be independently instrumented and controlled, allowing sophisticated energy management to be implemented by adding intelligent components to existing wiring infrastructure rather than redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal communication protocols and standardized interfaces that allow different devices (smart meters, breakers, switches, renewable energy systems) to interoperate through a common platform. This enables the existing distribution system to be upgraded with energy management capabilities using a unified approach across all components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If net distribution capacity increases to support fully renewable energy sources, then renewable energy integration is enabled, but the current distribution system is not well suited to implement sophisticated energy management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements two-way communication between smart meters, distributed energy resources, and the utility infrastructure. Sensors continuously monitor power flow, voltage, and current, providing real-time feedback that enables automated control algorithms to optimize renewable energy integration, manage load balancing, and maintain grid stability as distribution capacity increases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable control parameters and adaptive algorithms that respond to changing conditions in the distribution system. As renewable energy penetration increases, the system automatically adjusts control strategies, impedance settings, and protection coordination to maintain optimal performance without requiring manual reconfiguration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular architecture with customizable smart panel chassis and field-installable hardware modules is implemented, then scalability and customization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a modular electrical panel system where the chassis is divided into standardized slots that can accommodate different functional modules (smart meters, breakers, switches, renewable energy interfaces). This segmentation allows customers to start with a basic configuration and add specialized modules as needed, achieving customization without requiring a completely complex redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hierarchical modular architecture where smaller functional modules can be nested within or coordinated with larger system components. For example, smart modules with embedded controllers can be integrated into breaker assemblies, which in turn connect to the panel chassis, creating a nested structure that manages complexity through organized layers of functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for managing electrical power distribution for the microgrid at a site includes a customizable modular smart panel chassis and a set of chassis-compatible hardware modules. The chassis is designed to hold the hardware modules, which in turn are connected to circuits. The modules are field-installable and field-replaceable. Accordingly, more modules may be added as more circuits are added and/or as more management capabilities become available. The chassis itself may also be field-customizable, for example extendible in size to accommodate more modules.