Multiphase Distributed Energy Storage for EV Charging Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy storage systems are inefficient in controlling energy use at electric load locations, requiring impractical quantities of storage mediums and being prone to over-reaction, leading to energy shortages and high costs, especially with the increasing unpredictability of renewable energy sources and electric vehicle charging loads.
Innovation Solution
Multiphase distributed energy storage systems with bidirectional power converters and cloud-based optimization engines that monitor and control energy transfer to balance loads, optimizing energy use and reducing peak demand by charging during off-peak hours and discharging during peak demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If simple timer or single demand set-point control methods are used, then the control system is simple to operate, but an uneconomical amount of energy storage capacity is required and the system over-reacts to demand set points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback control system that continuously monitors actual power demand and adjusts energy storage discharge/charge operations in real-time. The controller compares actual demand against target demand levels and dynamically modulates the energy storage system output to maintain optimal operation, preventing over-reaction while minimizing required storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static timer-based or single set-point control to dynamic demand-responsive control. The controller continuously adapts its operation based on real-time demand conditions, adjusting charge and discharge rates dynamically to match actual load requirements, thereby reducing the total storage capacity needed while maintaining effective peak demand management.
2Device complexity
If a single demand set-point is used, then the control method is simple, but the energy storage system runs out of energy availability due to over-reaction
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control mechanism continuously monitors both demand conditions and energy storage state-of-charge levels. When storage availability becomes low, the system automatically adjusts its discharge rate or switches to charge mode, preventing complete depletion. This closed-loop control ensures reliable energy availability while maintaining relatively simple operational oversight.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage system autonomously manages its own charge and discharge cycles based on real-time demand signals and internal state monitoring. The controller automatically adjusts operations to prevent over-discharge, ensuring the system maintains sufficient energy availability without requiring complex external management or intervention.
3Power
If multiple discrete energy storage systems are used, then power control capability is improved, but system reliability decreases when any component is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the energy storage system into multiple modular units that can operate independently or in coordination. Each module maintains its own control capabilities, allowing the system to segment functionality while preserving overall reliability. When one module fails, others continue to provide power control support.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple energy storage modules are merged into a coordinated system with centralized control intelligence. The controller manages multiple modules as an integrated unit, distributing control tasks across modules while maintaining system-wide reliability. This merging approach preserves power control capability while ensuring that failure of individual components does not compromise overall system operability.
4Power
If energy storage systems are located at electric load locations, then peak demand control is improved, but the quantity of storage mediums required becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system precisely modulates energy storage output based on real-time demand measurements, extracting maximum efficiency from available storage capacity. By continuously adjusting discharge rates to match actual peak demand profiles, the system achieves effective peak control with minimal storage medium quantity, avoiding the need for impractical over-provisioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters including charge/discharge rates, voltage levels, and power output based on real-time demand conditions. This parameter optimization allows the energy storage system to deliver maximum effective power control capability while minimizing the total quantity of storage mediums required, achieving practical deployment at load locations.
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
This approach effectively manages energy storage, minimizing peak demand charges, extending the lifespan of energy storage components, and reducing the strain on the electrical grid by optimizing energy transfer and usage based on real-time data.
Implementation Method 1
a first bidirectional power converter that is coupled between the first energy source and the electric power line
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention include control methods employed in multiphase distributed energy storage systems that are located behind utility meters typically located at, but not limited to, medium and large commercial and industrial locations. Some embodiments of the invention use networked multiphase distributed energy storage systems located at an electric load location or installed at interconnection points along the electric power distribution grid to provide a means for balancing the load created from an electric charging station, which are adapted to transfer power between one or more electric vehicles and the electric power grid.