Dual-mode LCL inverter controller for grid-tied and off-grid
This technology is a control system for a power inverter that can switch between two operating modes: running independently (standalone) as its own power source, or connecting to the utility grid (grid-tie). It uses a specific three-component electrical filter (LCL) to manage the interface between the inverter and the grid, and introduces a compensation technique that corrects a stability problem inherent in this filter design. Without the fix, feedback from the grid can destabilize the inverter and cause it to fail; with it, the system delivers steady, predictable power output in both modes. The approach has been both simulated and tested in hardware, demonstrating real-world viability.
What you could build
A dual-mode inverter controller module for solar, battery storage, or microgrid systems that seamlessly handles both off-grid and grid-tied operation without hardware changes; target buyers would be inverter OEMs, microgrid integrators, and energy storage system manufacturers.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based energy storage integrators, data center UPS manufacturers, and DoD microgrid contractors (e.g., at military installations requiring islanding capability) would have direct interest.
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
- Jih-Sheng Lai, Sung Yeul Park, Chien-Liang Chen
- Granted
- September 2, 2014
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8824174
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology. Email us for an introduction prosim@harbor.capital.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.