Plug-In Battery Backup for Microgrid Outage Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power outage solutions, such as transfer switches and generators, are costly, complex, and often not feasible for temporary occupants or renters, necessitating an affordable and easy-to-install auxiliary power source.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary power supply unit with a connector that plugs into a wall outlet, utilizing a battery to provide power during outages, which can be charged during normal grid operation and includes safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a transfer switch and generator are installed to provide backup power during outages, then power supply reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the backup power function into separate modular units - a battery pack with connector that can be independently used without requiring installation of complex transfer switches or generators. Each unit operates autonomously by simply plugging into wall outlets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, replaceable battery packs designed for temporary or portable use rather than permanent installation. These disposable-style units eliminate the need for expensive, complex permanently-installed generator systems while providing adequate backup power for outages.
2Reliability
If a transfer switch and generator are installed to provide backup power, then power supply reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack system is designed for user self-installation without requiring professional electricians or complex manufacturing processes. The connector automatically interfaces with wall outlets and the system self-configures upon connection, eliminating the need for professional installation services.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector and battery pack design uses universal wall outlet interfaces that work with standard electrical infrastructure, making the system easy to manufacture and install anywhere without custom wiring or professional intervention. The same unit can serve multiple locations and devices.
3Reliability
If a generator is used to provide auxiliary power, then power availability during outages is improved, but ease of operation and portability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the power source (battery pack) from fixed installation requirements, creating a portable unit that can be easily moved and operated in different locations. The connector and battery pack form a self-contained portable system unlike stationary generators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical combustion engine system of traditional generators with an electrical battery system. This substitution eliminates noise, fuel requirements, and mechanical complexity while improving portability and ease of operation through simple electrical connection to wall outlets.
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
Provides reliable, quiet, and cost-effective auxiliary power to selected devices without the need for professional installation, suitable for renters and businesses, with automatic or manual operation and safety features.
Implementation Method 1
The auxiliary-power-supply unit includes a connector that plugs into a wall outlet of a microgrid and provides, from the battery during a power outage, auxiliary power to one or more devices
Implementation Method 2
a connector that plugs into a wall outlet of a microgrid and provides, from the battery during a power outage, auxiliary power
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, an auxiliary-power-supply unit includes a connector and a controller configured to power a microgrid from a battery in response to determining that the connector is plugged into an outlet of the microgrid, and that the microgrid is uncoupled from a power grid. For example, the connector plugs into a wall outlet of a microgrid in, e.g., a home, and provides, from the battery during a power outage, auxiliary power to the microgrid and, therefore, provides auxiliary power to one or more devices, such as appliances, lights, computers, or televisions, that are connected to the microgrid.