Power Control System With Dummy Output For Grid-Isolated Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a power control system that can efficiently manage and operate multiple distributed power sources such as solar cells, storage batteries, fuel cells, and gas power generators without compromising their versatility.

Innovation Solution

A power control system that includes a power control device and a dummy output system, where the power control device outputs power from distributed sources while paralleled off from the grid, and the dummy output system supplies a dummy current detectable by a current sensor in the same direction as forward power flow, using a step-down unit to reduce power consumption and prevent unnecessary power generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a current sensor detects forward power flow to control power generation, then power generation can be controlled based on detected current, but the system cannot distinguish between actual power flow and dummy current during isolated operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower flow detection accuracyVSAvoidoperation mode flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dummy current as an intermediary element that mimics the characteristics of actual power flow current. This dummy current flows through the same current sensor during isolated operation, allowing the system to maintain the appearance of normal power flow detection while actually operating independently from the grid. The dummy current serves as a mediator between the control system and the actual power generation, enabling versatile operation modes without compromising measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If distributed power sources operate independently from the grid, then system versatility is maintained, but the current sensor cannot detect actual power flow direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveisolated operation capabilityVSAvoidpower flow detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a copy of the actual power flow current by generating a dummy current that replicates the electrical characteristics (magnitude, direction, frequency) of real power flow. This copied current is then fed through the current sensor during isolated operation, allowing the sensor to detect what appears to be actual power flow while the system operates independently from the grid. The copying principle enables the measurement system to function correctly without requiring actual grid connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Quantity of substance

If power is supplied from distributed sources without step-down, then power availability is maximized, but power consumption increases and unnecessary power generation occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a step-down transformer that modifies the voltage and current parameters of the power supplied from distributed sources. The transformer reduces the voltage level and adjusts the current characteristics to match the requirements of the dummy output system. This parameter transformation enables the system to supply adequate power while reducing overall power consumption and preventing unnecessary power generation by matching supply parameters to actual demand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution enables efficient operation control between multiple distributed power sources, allowing for versatile operation without requiring changes to existing power generation devices, and reduces power consumption by using a dummy current to manage power flow effectively.

Implementation Method 1

a step-down unit configured to step down the power supplied from the other distributed power sources located between the output unit and the current sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10211635B2Power control system and control method of power control system
Publication Date: 2019.02.19 KYOCERA CORP
  • US10211635B2 patent drawing
  • US10211635B2 patent drawing
  • US10211635B2 patent drawing

AI summary

To establish a system capable of efficient operation control between a plurality of distributed power sources without undermining the versatility of the distributed power sources, a power control system controls a power generation device and other distributed power sources, the power generation device generating power while a current sensor detects forward power flow. The power control system includes: a power control device including an output unit configured to output power supplied from the other distributed power sources, in a state where the power generation device and the other distributed power sources are paralleled off from a grid; and a dummy output system configured to supply a dummy current detectable by the current sensor as a current in the same direction as the forward power flow, using an output from the output unit, wherein the dummy output system includes step-down unit located between the output unit and the current sensor.