Smart Home Power System with UPS and Grid Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional home and building power distribution systems are not easily adaptable to alternative energy sources and lack integration with smart home/building control systems, making it difficult to efficiently manage and monitor energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A smart energy storage and distribution system that includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with a system controller to manage energy between utility grid power and alternative sources, such as solar, and communicate with smart outlets to optimize power usage based on programmed logic or user commands, while monitoring and transmitting data to the cloud.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power distribution systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot be easily adapted to alternative energy sources and lacks integration with smart home control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is designed to handle multiple energy sources (utility grid, solar panels, wind turbines, generators) and multiple functions (power distribution, energy storage, monitoring, control) through a single integrated architecture. The controller can manage different power sources interchangeably, making the system universally adaptable to various alternative energy configurations without requiring separate dedicated systems for each energy source.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular components including the controller, energy storage device, smart outlets, and monitoring systems. Each component can be independently configured and installed, allowing the system to be scaled and adapted to different alternative energy sources without redesigning the entire system. This modular approach enables easy integration of solar panels, wind turbines, or generators as needed.
2Extent of automation
If conventional power distribution systems are used, then the system complexity is low, but the system lacks real-time monitoring and control capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates continuous monitoring of power consumption, energy storage levels, and power source availability. The controller receives real-time data from smart outlets and monitoring systems, automatically adjusts power distribution based on detected conditions, and provides feedback to users through the interface. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automated monitoring and control without requiring complex manual intervention systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically manages power distribution, switching between energy sources, and controlling smart outlets based on pre-programmed logic and real-time conditions without requiring constant user intervention. The system self-regulates energy flow, monitors its own status, and makes autonomous decisions to optimize power usage, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the energy storage device is charged during peak grid rates, then the charging speed is fast, but the energy cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is programmed to charge the energy storage device during off-peak hours when utility rates are lower, proactively storing energy before peak demand periods. This preliminary charging action allows the system to have sufficient energy reserves ready for high-demand times without incurring peak rate charges, optimizing the timing of energy acquisition to minimize cost while ensuring adequate storage levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts charging behavior based on real-time utility rate signals, energy storage levels, and predicted usage patterns. When rates are low and storage is insufficient, charging is prioritized; when rates are high or storage is sufficient, charging is reduced or suspended. This dynamic response allows the system to adapt charging speed and timing to balance cost optimization with energy availability requirements.
4Productivity
If the system switches between multiple energy sources, then the energy cost optimization improves, but the system control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having each energy source controlled independently, the system inverts the control approach by having a central controller manage all sources through a unified decision-making algorithm. The controller evaluates the status and characteristics of each power source (utility grid, solar, wind, generator) and automatically determines the optimal combination and switching sequence, simplifying the control architecture while achieving sophisticated cost optimization across multiple sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A smart power storage and distribution system for buildings includes an energy storage device included in an uninterruptible power system (UPS). A system controller controls charging of the energy storage system via one or both of conventional grid power and/or the alternative power. The system controller also operates a plurality of electrical switches to switch the building's power source between power from the utility grid and/or from the energy storage system. The controller also communicates with smart outlets within the building to selectively turn the power on/off to each smart outlet according to programmed logic or remote commands from a user. Various types of data can be monitored throughout the house/building and transmitted to the cloud. The source of electrical power to the building, or to charge the UPS, can be selectively switched to correspond to the most advantageous electrical grid monetary rates.