Plant Operation Optimization for Tariff-Aware Set Point Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plant operation optimization components are limited in their functionality, as they are specialized for determining set points and do not effectively support tariff optimization or selection, which is crucial for reducing operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines optimal operation set points and corresponding operational costs based on current and candidate tariffs, modifying the candidate tariff to meet target cost criteria, such as equal or lower costs, by changing variables characterizing the tariff, and iteratively refining these changes until the target is met.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the optimization component is specialized for determining set points, then the main functionality is maintained, but the functionality is limited and cannot support tariff optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The optimization component is extended to perform multiple functions: it maintains its original set point determination capability while adding tariff optimization and selection functionality. This is achieved by integrating additional modules that work alongside the existing set point optimization engine, allowing the same component to handle both traditional operational optimization and new tariff-related optimization tasks without requiring separate dedicated systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the optimization component is extended to support tariff optimization, then the versatility is improved, but the complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extended optimization component is divided into distinct functional modules: the original set point optimization module, a new tariff evaluation module, a tariff modification module, and an iterative optimization module. Each module handles specific aspects of the optimization task, allowing the system to manage complexity through modular design while maintaining enhanced versatility. The modules communicate through standardized interfaces, preventing complexity from becoming unmanageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for a plant operation optimization component includes determining optimal operation set points and, based on optimal operation set points and corresponding operational costs, providing output allowing for selecting a tariff.