Modular Solar Energy Storage Appliance Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The adoption of distributed energy power and storage technologies is hindered by high costs, complexity in installation, lack of standardized communication protocols, and the need for sophisticated control mechanisms to manage and monitor renewable energy sources effectively, particularly in residential and commercial settings.

Innovation Solution

A modular, minimally invasive energy management system (SEGIS-ES) that integrates distributed energy sources, energy storage, and load management within a single device, featuring a secure enclosure, advanced inverter/converter technology, and a local data processing gateway for remote monitoring and control, enabling efficient energy conservation and resale to the utility grid.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If distributed energy sources and energy storage devices are integrated into a single modular system, then installation complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to the integration of multiple functional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation complexityVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional components (distributed energy sources, energy storage devices, inverters, controllers, and monitoring systems) into a single integrated energy management system. This merging approach allows the system to function as a unified module that reduces installation complexity while managing the inherent complexity through standardized internal architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - generating energy from distributed sources, storing energy in batteries, converting between AC and DC, monitoring system performance, and interfacing with utility grids. This multi-functionality within a single modular unit simplifies deployment while handling diverse operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If advanced monitoring and control mechanisms are implemented, then energy management efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy management efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates monitoring devices and control mechanisms that continuously track energy generation, storage status, and consumption patterns. This feedback enables automated optimization of energy flow, battery charging/discharging cycles, and system performance without requiring complex manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated energy management system includes automated control capabilities that allow the system to self-regulate energy distribution, battery management, and load balancing. This self-service functionality improves energy management efficiency while reducing the need for external complex control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If energy storage devices are designed to support entire electrical loads, then reliability during power failures is improved, but device size and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower failure support capabilityVSAvoidenergy storage device size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The energy storage system is divided into modular battery units that can be configured in series or parallel arrangements. This segmentation allows the system to provide full load support capability while maintaining manageable individual unit sizes and weights, enabling scalable deployment based on specific energy requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from traditional horizontal battery room configurations to vertical stacking of modular energy storage units. This dimensional change reduces the footprint and allows for more compact installation while maintaining the total energy storage capacity needed to support entire electrical loads during power failures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 SEGIS-ES system simplifies the integration and management of distributed energy sources, reduces installation complexity, and enhances energy efficiency by allowing for real-time monitoring and control, thereby facilitating the adoption of renewable energy technologies and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

photovoltaic panels (e.g., solar panels)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

DC/AC and AC/DC intelligent controllable inverter/converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion:

Implementation Method 3

intelligent Battery charge controller with Multi Point solar panel Power Tracking ability

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical energy storage: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS9600045B2Systems, apparatus, and methods of a solar energy grid integrated system with energy storage appliance
Publication Date: 2017.03.21 BUDDERFLY INC
  • US9600045B2 patent drawing
  • US9600045B2 patent drawing
  • US9600045B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An enclosure for integrating distributed energy sources, provides a compact enclosure that fits within a utility workspace and enclosures that can be mechanically coupled together, placed in parallel or in a series.