Power Conditioning System Controller for Distributed Source Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power converting apparatuses face challenges in stopping the output of distributed power sources like solar cells and fuel cells without disrupting the charging and discharging of storage batteries, especially when communication with external servers is disconnected or when output suppression messages are received.
Innovation Solution
A power converting apparatus with a controller that stops the operation of the direct current convertor without stopping the inverter, allowing for continued charging and discharging of storage batteries, even when the distributed power source output is suppressed, and includes mechanisms to handle output suppression messages and communication disconnections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power converting apparatus stops the operation of both the direct current convertor and the inverter when output suppression is required, then the output of the distributed power source is stopped, but the charging and discharging of storage batteries is also interrupted causing longer restart times
Solution Approach 1:
The power converting apparatus is segmented into two independent controllable units: the direct current convertor and the inverter. The control unit can independently stop the direct current convertor while keeping the inverter operational, allowing selective suppression of distributed power source output without affecting battery charging/discharging functions. This segmentation enables differentiated control strategies for different system components based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically adjusts the operational state of different components based on received output suppression messages. When suppression is required, the system transitions to a partial shutdown mode where only the direct current convertor is stopped while the inverter continues operating. This dynamic state adjustment allows the system to adapt to grid conditions while maintaining essential functions.
2Productivity
If the power converting apparatus maintains continuous operation of both convertors and inverter, then battery charging and discharging continues, but the distributed power source output cannot be suppressed when communication disconnection or output suppression messages are received
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors communication status with the external server and receives output suppression messages. When communication disconnection is detected or suppression messages are received, the control unit triggers appropriate shutdown actions. This feedback mechanism ensures the system responds to grid conditions while maintaining normal operation during stable communication periods, optimizing both productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit changes the operational parameters of the direct current convertor based on external signals. When output suppression is required, the control unit modifies the convertor's operating state from active to stopped, while leaving the inverter's parameters unchanged. This parameter change approach allows flexible adjustment of system behavior in response to grid conditions.
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
Enables efficient management of distributed power sources by allowing continuous battery operation during output suppression, reducing restart times and ensuring power grid stability.
Implementation Method 1
a direct current convertor that converts a voltage of a DC power input from the distributed power source
Implementation Method 2
an inverter that converts the DC power input from the direct current convertor to an AC power
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A PCS comprises a DC/DC convertor that converts a voltage of a DC power input from a solar cell; an inverter that converts the DC power to an AC power; and a controller 134 that stops an operation of the DC/AC convertor without stopping the inverter when a condition that stops an output of the solar cell is satisfied.