Reverse Power Relay for Decoupled Alternative Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Regulating alternative energy sources decoupled from power grids is challenging due to unpredictability and the need to prevent reverse power flow, which can cause system failures and energy imbalances.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a computer system with processors and memory to manage power loads from alternative energy sources, energy storage devices, and power grids, employing a reverse power relay to store excess energy and adjust power supply based on natural events and load demands, ensuring energy storage device capacity is not exceeded and preventing reverse power flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If alternative energy source power supply is increased to meet power demand, then power supply reliability is improved, but system stability deteriorates due to unpredictability of natural events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an energy storage device as an intermediary between the alternative energy source and the power grid. This mediator absorbs the unpredictability of natural events by storing excess energy when production is high and releasing energy when production is low, thereby maintaining system stability while ensuring reliable power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by adjusting the charging and discharging rates of the energy storage device based on real-time conditions. When alternative energy production exceeds demand, the storage device charges; when production falls short, it discharges, thereby adapting to parameter changes in natural events while maintaining system stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If excess power from alternative energy source is stored in energy storage device, then power grid stability is improved, but energy storage device capacity is exceeded causing power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback control by continuously monitoring the state of charge of the energy storage device and adjusting the power flow accordingly. When the storage device approaches its maximum capacity, the system receives feedback and reduces or stops charging, preventing capacity overload and associated energy loss while maintaining grid stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by storing only the amount of excess energy that the energy storage device can accommodate without exceeding its capacity. Rather than attempting to store all excess energy regardless of capacity constraints, the system stores a controlled portion, preventing energy loss while maintaining grid stability.
3Reliability
If reverse power flow is prevented by decoupling alternative energy source from power grid, then power grid safety is improved, but energy utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device serves as an intermediary that enables the alternative energy source to remain coupled to the power grid without causing reverse power flow issues. It absorbs excess energy locally, preventing it from flowing back into the grid, thereby maintaining grid safety while maximizing energy utilization from the alternative source.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by using the alternative energy source to charge the energy storage device when excess power is generated, rather than curtailing production or allowing reverse flow. This self-utilization of excess energy improves overall energy utilization efficiency while maintaining grid safety through the storage buffer.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes: determining a total power load from an electrical power consumption entity configured to receive all or a portion of the total power load from each of (i) an alternative energy source (“AES”), (ii) a power grid, and (iii) a rechargeable energy storage device. The AES and the power grid are connected using a reverse power relay. The method also includes: for a first time period, determining a first power supply from the AES. The first power supply is affected by natural events that are uncontrolled by a user. The method also includes in accordance with a determination that, during the first time period, the power supply from the AES exceeds the power load: storing an excess portion of the power supply in the energy storage device, without releasing electrical power from the AES to the power grid. The excess portion is less than the energy storage device's maximum capacity.