Packet-Based Energy Routing for Grid Flexibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical supply networks are inflexible and inefficient in managing short-term fluctuations in energy demand and supply, particularly with increased reliance on regenerative energy sources, and require central control entities.

Innovation Solution

A method for directed transmission of electrical energy using packet-based routing, where energy packets are dynamically routed through network nodes with associated data packets containing routing information, enabling autonomous and self-organized energy distribution without central control, allowing consumers to purchase energy at market conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If centrally controlled supply networks with static switching are used, then energy supply stability is maintained, but flexibility and efficiency in managing short-term fluctuations are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy supply stabilityVSAvoidflexibility in managing fluctuations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the continuous energy flow into discrete energy packets that can be independently routed through the network. Each packet contains routing information and can be dynamically directed to different consumers based on real-time demand, enabling flexible adaptation while maintaining stable delivery through structured packet handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic routing capabilities where energy packets can be redirected in real-time based on fluctuating demand and supply conditions. The network switches can dynamically change packet destinations and routes, transforming the static network into an adaptive system that responds to short-term variations without compromising overall stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If packet-based dynamic routing is implemented, then flexibility and efficiency in managing fluctuations are improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in managing fluctuationsVSAvoidnetwork control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through autonomous energy packets that carry their own routing information and can be independently processed by network switches. Each packet contains destination addresses and routing data, enabling the network to self-organize and dynamically route energy without requiring complex centralized control, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses data packets as intermediaries that carry routing information alongside or with energy packets. These data packets act as mediators that guide the energy packets through the network, simplifying the control mechanism by separating routing intelligence from energy transmission and enabling independent optimization of both functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If regenerative energy sources are increased, then sustainability is improved, but short-term fluctuations in energy supply worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesustainabilityVSAvoidenergy supply consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments energy from regenerative sources into discrete packets that can be individually tracked and routed. This segmentation allows the network to handle the intermittent nature of regenerative energy by distributing packets across multiple consumers and time periods, smoothing out fluctuations while maintaining high sustainability through increased regenerative energy utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where network switches and consumers communicate real-time energy demand and availability. This feedback enables dynamic adjustment of energy packet routing, allowing the system to respond to fluctuations from regenerative sources by redirecting energy to consumers with immediate demand, thereby stabilizing supply consistency while maintaining sustainability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2430723B1Method and apparatus for the directional transmission of electricity in an electricity grid
Publication Date: 2016.12.28 GIP AG
  • EP2430723B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2430723B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2430723B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for directionally transmitting electricity in an electricity grid as well as a method for transmitting electricity via an electricity grid comprising at least one electricity generator, at least one grid node, and at least one consumer. Standard electricity grids statically switch the grid to ensure that electricity is supplied to individual consumers. The aim of the invention is to devise an electricity transmission method and design an electricity transmission system which provide a high degree of flexibility and allow electricity to be dynamically distributed in an electricity grid in order to also cope with temporary variations at both the supply end and the demand end. Said aim is achieved by a method for directionally transmitting electricity in an electricity grid, comprising the following steps: receiving a data packet; receiving an electricity packet associated with the data packet; identifying a recipient from the data included in the data packet; transmitting the data packet to the identified recipient; and transmitting the electricity packet that is associated with the data packet and is defined by the voltage U(t), the electric current I(t), and the duration T of the packet, to the same identified recipient.