Universal Module Controller for Multi-Source Power Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of controlling multiple power producing modules in small-scale power systems, particularly when using different types of modules, make it economically challenging to efficiently harvest low temperature heat and optimize power output.
Innovation Solution
A centralized module controller with a processor and memory that identifies, schedules, and allocates control sequences for each power producing module, allowing for efficient operation and integration of multiple modules while incorporating safety logic for secure operation, enabling plug and play functionality and reducing the need for individual controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated controller is provided for each power producing module, then the control operation is adapted to each module type, but the cost and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can control different types of power producing modules (heat power modules, hydro power modules, wind power modules, combustion engine modules) through a standardized interface. The controller reads module type identification and loads corresponding control logic, enabling one controller to perform multiple specialized functions that previously required separate dedicated controllers for each module type.
2Reliability
If multiple dedicated controllers are used for small power producing modules, then each module can be controlled independently, but the investment cost becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dedicated controllers are merged into a single universal controller that manages all power producing modules. The controller maintains independent control capability for each module by loading and executing module-specific control logic, while physically consolidating multiple controller functions into one device, thereby reducing the number of controllers from N (one per module) to 1.
3Device complexity
If a centralized controller is used to reduce cost, then the device complexity is reduced, but the computational overhead for coordinating multiple modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary actions by pre-loading control logic for different module types into memory before execution. When a module is connected or identified, the controller retrieves the appropriate control logic from storage and prepares it for execution, reducing real-time computational overhead during actual module operation and coordination.
4Productivity
If different types of power producing modules are connected to maximize renewable energy output, then the total power output is optimized, but the control coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller applies local quality by loading and executing different control logic programs tailored to each specific module type (heat power, hydro, wind, combustion engine). Each module receives customized control parameters and algorithms appropriate to its characteristics, while the overall system benefits from coordinated control of diverse renewable energy sources through a single intelligent controller.
Data Source
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Figure 1b
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A module controller (6) and a method for controlling operation of power producing modules (4) in a power producing system (2). The module controller (6) comprises a processor (12) and a memory (14), configured to store instructions (16), which when executed by the processor (12) performs the method by causing the module controller (6) to identify each power producing module (4) connected to the module controller (6), retrieve a control logic (8) for and associated with each of the identified power producing modules (4), determining the order in which the power producing modules (4) are to be controlled by the module controller (6), allocate processor time to each power producing module (4) and control the operation of each power producing module (4) by executing, in the processor (12), the associated control logic (8).