PLL-based islanding detection for solar and microgrid
This technology is a circuit component that detects when a solar panel, generator, or other local power source has become disconnected from the main electrical grid — a dangerous condition called 'islanding.' It works by using a phase-locked loop, a standard circuit that normally tracks the grid's AC frequency, but redesigning it so that when the grid signal disappears, the circuit immediately begins oscillating erratically in a predictable, detectable pattern. That distinctive behavior serves as an unambiguous alarm signal that grid connection has been lost. The approach is faster and more reliable than conventional islanding detection methods, which can be slow or fooled by certain grid conditions.
What you could build
An embedded islanding-detection module integrated into solar inverters, microgrid controllers, or distributed generator power electronics; buyers would be inverter manufacturers and smart grid equipment OEMs needing to meet IEEE 1547 anti-islanding requirements.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based defense and energy contractors (e.g., Leidos, SAIC, Dominion Energy partners) developing microgrid and resilient power systems for military installations and critical infrastructure would find this relevant.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Timothy N. Thacker, Dushan Boroyevich, Fred Wang, Rolando Burgos
- Granted
- September 2, 2014
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8823416
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.