Power Control Apparatus for Multi-Source DC to AC Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication protocols, such as ECHONET Lite, are inadequate for efficiently controlling systems that combine multiple power supply apparatuses, as they are designed for single power supply systems, leading to inefficiencies in power management and control.
Innovation Solution
A power control apparatus and equipment control apparatus that communicate using a predetermined protocol, capable of collectively converting DC power from multiple power supply apparatuses to AC, and notify each other of equipment classes and properties, enabling efficient control and management of power supply systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a communication protocol designed for single power supply systems (ECHONET Lite) is used, then compatibility with existing equipment is maintained, but control efficiency deteriorates in multi-power supply systems
Solution Approach 1:
The power control apparatus acts as an intermediary between the equipment control apparatus and multiple power supply apparatuses. It translates and manages communication protocols, enabling the equipment control apparatus to control multiple power supply devices efficiently while maintaining compatibility with existing single-power supply protocols through standard ECHONET Lite communication interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The power control apparatus provides multi-functional capabilities by managing multiple power supply apparatuses through a single communication interface. It can control solar power generation apparatus, storage battery apparatus, and other DC power sources uniformly, making the system adaptable to various power supply configurations while maintaining protocol compatibility.
2Ease of operation
If DC-AC conversion is performed in each power supply apparatus, then individual apparatus control is simplified, but power conversion loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the DC-AC conversion function from individual power supply apparatuses into a centralized power control apparatus. Multiple DC power sources (solar panels, storage batteries) are combined and converted to AC power in a single location, eliminating redundant conversion operations and reducing total power conversion loss while maintaining individual apparatus control through the communication interface.
3Productivity
If a combination of multiple power supply apparatuses is used, then system efficiency is improved, but communication and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power control apparatus serves as a mediator that simplifies communication between the equipment control apparatus and multiple power supply devices. It handles protocol translation, data aggregation, and coordinated control, reducing the communication burden on the equipment control apparatus while maintaining efficient control of multiple diverse power sources.
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 control and management of power supply systems using multiple power supply apparatuses by accurately interpreting and managing power parameters, reducing conversion losses and improving system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a conversion unit which is capable of collectively converting DC power output by each of the plurality of power supply apparatuses to AC
Data Source
AI summary
A power control apparatus comprises a conversion unit which is capable of collectively converting DC power output by each of the plurality of power supply apparatuses to AC; and a communication unit which communicates with an external equipment control apparatus in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit notifies the equipment control apparatus of an equipment class of the power control apparatus in addition to notifying the equipment control apparatus of an equipment class of each of the plurality of power supply apparatuses.