Peer-to-Peer Microgrid Dispatch Control Without a Central Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized control systems for micro-grids introduce a single point of failure and are not scalable, requiring custom-built solutions that discourage adaptability and addition of new resources.
Innovation Solution
A distributed control system with peer-to-peer networks of controllers that act as dispatch handlers for electrical buses, segmenting micro-grids and assigning supervisors to handle load requirements, allowing for modular and scalable control without a central controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centralized control system is used for micro-grids, then control coordination is achieved, but a single point of failure is introduced and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple distributed controllers, each managing a subset of micro-grid elements. These controllers operate autonomously and communicate through peer-to-peer messaging, eliminating the single point of failure inherent in centralized systems while maintaining coordination through standardized communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed controllers are designed with universal functionality to handle multiple roles including dispatch handler, supervisor, and peer-to-peer communication. This multi-functionality allows any controller to assume different responsibilities based on real-time micro-grid conditions, enhancing both reliability and adaptability without requiring custom-built specialized systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized control system is used for micro-grids, then control coordination is achieved, but adaptability and addition of new resources are discouraged
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adapts to changes in micro-grid configuration through automated role assignment and configuration detection. When new resources are added or configurations change, the system automatically detects these changes and reassigns controller roles (dispatch handler, supervisor) without requiring manual reconfiguration or custom-built solutions, thereby enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors micro-grid configuration status and uses this feedback to automatically adjust controller roles and responsibilities. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to new resources and configuration changes in real-time, maintaining optimal operation without requiring custom-built control systems for each scenario.
3Productivity
If distributed control is implemented, then scalability and robustness are improved, but control coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All distributed controllers are designed with homogeneous capabilities and follow the same operational protocols. This homogeneity simplifies coordination in the peer-to-peer network, as each controller operates according to the same rules and communication standards, reducing the complexity that would otherwise arise from heterogeneous controller designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages coordination complexity by dynamically changing operational parameters such as controller roles (dispatch handler, supervisor), communication priorities, and control strategies based on real-time micro-grid conditions. This parameter-based approach allows scalable coordination without requiring complex hardwired control logic.
4Adaptability or versatility
If distributed control is implemented, then modularity is enhanced, but system configuration management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed control system automatically manages its own configuration through self-detection and self-assignment mechanisms. When the micro-grid configuration changes, the controllers automatically detect these changes and reassign roles without external intervention, thereby enhancing modularity while reducing the complexity of manual configuration management.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for controlling distributed energy resources. Controllers in a peer-to-peer network are configured to act as a dispatch handler for electrical buses connected to respective set of power assets and loads. The controllers are configured to broadcast micro-grid configuration information over the peer-to-peer network to each controller. Each controller is configured to determine a segmentation of the electrical buses into isolated micro-grids; and assign a controller as a supervisor for each of the isolated micro-grids. The controllers are configured such that supervisor controller assigned to isolated micro-grid is configured to determine dispatch commands for power assets associated with the isolated micro-grid to handle load requirements and broadcast the determined dispatch commands over the peer-to-peer network. Each controller is configured to transmit determined dispatch commands to power assets electrically connected to the electrical bus for which the controller acts as dispatch handler to handle the load requirements.