Predictive decision models for efficient energy usage in intralogistics by means of a DC voltage link

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Wilfried Hofmann; Professor Dr.-Ing. Thorsten Schmidt
• Subject Area: Electrical Energy Systems, Power Management, Power Electronics, Electrical Machines and Drives ; Production Systems, Operations Management, Quality Management and Factory Planning
• Term: from 2020 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 430149671

Within this research project, the competences in logistics engineering and electrical drive technology create an overall concept for increasing energy efficiency and energy supply safety in intralogistics systems. Technologically coupled, variable speed multi-motor systems, as used in intralogistics for transporting, offer a notable potential for the recovery of potential energy and brake energy. A spatially extended DC voltage linkage in multi-motor systems in cooperation with central energy storage systems is a not hitherto used approach for the comprehensive lifting of these reserves. The efficient use of such a system requires new solutions for the control of the logistics system.Based on the development of prediction models for energy demand, predictive decision models for energy-optimal transport are developed at the control levels of the logistics system. The coupling of the optimization models of the dispositive level (discrete models) and the operative level (continuous models) leads to a hybrid system model and results in a new solution quality in material flow control. A concept for the energetic coordination of the control levels for parallel devices in an energy storage compound is developed and tested.The outcome of this research is a predictive method for the efficient operation of logistics systems as well as a taxonomy for the dimensioning of a spatially extended DC voltage interconnection with electrical storage. Selected results are verified on existing test rigs. The interlinking of predictive energy and material flow control, reduces electrical load peaks, equalizes external energy supply and increases energy-efficiency of the logistics systems.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants