Multi-Machine Charging Control for Limited Hybrid Power Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical infrastructure often lacks the necessary resources for remote or construction sites, leading to the use of fossil fuels for powering machines, and existing charging methods do not efficiently manage the charging of multiple electrically powered machines, considering factors like charging speed, productivity, and CO2 emissions.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a charging station with multiple electric energy sources and a control unit to collect data from machines, determine a charging strategy based on machine needs and energy source status, and optimize charging operations for cost, productivity, and CO2 emissions by selecting appropriate energy sources and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple electrically powered machines are charged simultaneously at a charging station with limited energy sources, then the charging speed and productivity are improved, but the complexity of managing and distributing energy among machines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system dynamically adjusts power distribution among multiple machines based on real-time energy source status, machine charging needs, and priority levels. The control unit continuously monitors and reallocates energy resources, transforming a static charging system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing conditions, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high charging speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control unit receives data from machines about their charging status, battery levels, and priority requirements. This feedback loop enables the control unit to optimize energy distribution in real-time, balancing the need for fast charging with the complexity of managing multiple energy sources and machines.
2Reliability
If fossil fuels are used to power machines at remote sites, then the availability of power is improved, but the CO2 emissions and environmental harm increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the limitation of remote locations without grid access into an opportunity to deploy distributed energy sources such as generators and battery storage. By managing multiple energy sources intelligently, the system provides reliable power availability while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, thereby converting the harmful emissions problem into a benefit through optimized energy source selection and hybrid power systems.
3Productivity
If charging priority is given to certain machines based on productivity needs, then the overall productivity is improved, but the fairness and equity in energy distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system applies local quality by assigning different priority levels and energy allocation strategies to different machines based on their specific productivity needs, work schedules, and operational importance. The control unit evaluates each machine's individual requirements and grants preferential energy distribution to critical machines, thereby enhancing overall productivity while maintaining a fair and transparent allocation framework that considers each machine's contextual needs.
4Loss of time
If fast charging is provided to machines, then the charging time is reduced, but the wear and tear on batteries increases reducing their lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by providing fast charging only when necessary and to the extent required by machine priority and energy availability. The control unit monitors battery health and charging progress, delivering high-power charging selectively rather than continuously, thereby reducing charging time for critical machines while minimizing excessive stress on batteries, thus balancing charging speed with battery lifespan preservation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of controlling electric charging of at least two electrically powered machines. The method is performed by a charging station comprising a plurality of electric energy sources, a charging interface for electrically connecting with an electrically powered machine, and a control unit. The method comprises collecting data about each one of the at least two electrically powered machines and obtaining a status of each one of the plurality of electric energy sources. The method further comprises determining a charging strategy based on the collected data, the obtained status and on a pre-determined charging focus of the charging strategy, and subsequently charging the at least two electrically powered machines according to the determined charging strategy. The present disclosure further relates to a control unit, a charging station and a vehicle or vessel comprising the charging station.