Smart Load Center Hybrid Wired-Wireless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the integration of solar power into electrical grids increases, existing systems face challenges in efficiently managing the dynamic switching between grid power and solar power to optimize energy usage, particularly in ensuring that solar energy is consumed when generated and not wasted, and in effectively communicating with appliances to balance energy demand and supply.
Innovation Solution
A Smart Load Center system that dynamically and selectively switches power between grid and solar sources for individual appliances using a combination of power line communication and wireless signals, allowing for circuit-by-circuit control and integration with the Internet-of-Things ecosystem to manage energy distribution efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar power is integrated into the electrical grid with net-metering systems, then renewable energy utilization is improved, but energy waste occurs when solar power cannot be absorbed by the grid during peak generation hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a smart load center as an intermediary device between the solar power system and the electrical grid. This smart load center includes a transfer switch that automatically switches between solar power and grid power, and a communication system that coordinates with the solar inverter to maximize self-consumption of solar energy. The intermediary manages the timing and routing of power flow to prevent waste when grid absorption capacity is limited.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the smart load center continuously monitors grid conditions, solar generation levels, and appliance usage patterns. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of power routing decisions, allowing the system to respond in real-time to changing conditions and optimize solar energy utilization while preventing waste during periods of low grid absorption capacity.
2Device complexity
If traditional breaker panels are used for power distribution, then system simplicity is maintained, but dynamic switching between multiple power sources for individual circuits is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into individual controllable circuits, with each circuit equipped with its own transfer switch or relay. This segmentation allows independent control of power source selection for each circuit, enabling some circuits to draw from solar power while others draw from grid power simultaneously. The segmentation transforms a monolithic breaker panel into a distributed intelligent switching network.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic switching capability to the traditionally static breaker panel. Transfer switches and relays are controlled by a smart load center that can dynamically route power sources based on real-time conditions such as solar generation availability, grid pricing signals, and appliance priorities. This dynamic control enables adaptability without requiring complete system redesign.
3Reliability
If solar power is fed back to the grid during peak sun hours, then grid support is provided, but economic benefit is lost when utilities cannot absorb the back-fed power
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-coordinating with the solar inverter before solar power is generated. The smart load center communicates with the inverter to establish power routing decisions in advance, prioritizing self-consumption of solar energy by connected appliances before allowing any excess to be exported to the grid. This preliminary coordination ensures that solar power is consumed when generated rather than being wasted when grid absorption is limited.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic power routing that adjusts in real-time based on grid absorption capacity. When the grid can absorb solar power, the system exports excess energy; when the grid cannot absorb power, the system automatically redirects solar power to local loads. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the balance between providing grid support and preventing waste of unabsorbed solar energy.
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 and dynamic management of energy distribution, ensuring that appliances are powered by the most available and optimal energy source, thereby maximizing the use of solar power and reducing energy waste, while also facilitating seamless communication and control within the IoT framework.
Implementation Method 1
A PLC transceiver is operative to transmit and receive data over one or more power distribution wires of a branch circuit
Implementation Method 2
A wireless transceiver is operative to transmit and receive wireless signals
Data Source
AI summary
A communications system is described providing the ability to intelligently deliver electrical power from a first power source or from a second power source to a branch circuit in a facility, such as a home. Communications between a Smart Load Center (SLC) controller and the appliances is provided via a combination of signals sent over the electrical wiring and signals sent over the air. In particular, the signals over the electrical wiring serve to identify to which branch circuit the appliance is connected. The signals over the air support the communications between the appliances and the SLC controller, and may be part of a larger Internet-of-Things ecosystem dedicated to facilities automation services.