Decentralized Power Dispatch Using Self-Estimated Component Values

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Solution Overview

Problem

Centralized control of decentralized power systems is time-consuming, expensive, and difficult to automate, especially when integrating small, dynamic components like domestic stores or small photovoltaic installations, due to the need for complex numerical optimizations and detailed knowledge of system topology.

Innovation Solution

A power system with a central control unit that uses self-estimated values from each component, determined by state values, to distribute electrical power efficiently and automatically, incorporating system priority values and virtual power plants to simplify integration and reduce computational complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If centralized control based on numerical optimizations is used, then power distribution control is achieved, but it is time-consuming, expensive, and difficult to automate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of controlVSAvoidtime-consuming
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the centralized control problem into individual component-level decisions. Each power system component independently determines its own power output based on local state values and a simple priority rule, eliminating the need for complex centralized numerical optimization while achieving effective power distribution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the control parameters from complex numerical optimization variables to simple priority-based decisions. By using a priority value associated with each component and comparing state values against threshold values, the system transforms the control mechanism into a straightforward rule-based approach that is fast and easy to implement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If small decentralized components are integrated into centralized control, then system comprehensiveness is improved, but automation becomes difficult and requires expert knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration capabilityVSAvoidautomation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal control mechanism that works for all types of power system components regardless of their specific characteristics. The same priority-based control logic applies to generators, storage units, and consumers alike, enabling easy integration of diverse decentralized components without requiring component-specific control strategies or expert knowledge

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Each power system component autonomously determines its own power output by evaluating its state values against threshold values and applying the priority rule locally. This self-service approach eliminates the need for centralized control of individual components, allowing automatic integration of decentralized units without requiring expert intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If detailed knowledge of system topology is required, then control accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making control decisions at the component level rather than requiring global system knowledge. Each component uses only its own state values and the priority values of other components to determine its power output, achieving accurate control without needing detailed knowledge of the overall system topology

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12456868B2Method for operating an energy system, and energy system
Publication Date: 2025.10.28 SIEMENS AG
  • US12456868B2 patent drawing
  • US12456868B2 patent drawing
  • US12456868B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments of the teachings herein include methods and/or systems for operating a power system having a central control unit and two power system components. The method may include: determining a self-estimated value for each power system component based on a respective state value; providing the central control unit with a present maximum amount of power for each of the components; receiving a request for a demanded electrical power; ascertaining a distribution variable relating to the demanded power for each component based on the self-estimated values and the maximum amount of power output; and distributing a demanded electrical power to the power system components. The power system components comprise an energy generator unit, an energy consumer unit, or an energy storage unit.