The Southern has been granted a patent for a power generation system that allows communication with downstream loads or devices by changing the voltage on a power bus while providing power. This innovative method enhances efficiency and control in power distribution. GlobalData’s report on Southern gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Southern, Power-to-gas system was a key innovation area identified from patents. Southern's grant share as of March 2024 was 71%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Dynamic voltage control for power source communication

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Southern Co

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11916378B2) discloses a method for operating a power source, specifically a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system, to efficiently provide power to a load while ensuring the system operates within specified power thresholds. The method involves adjusting the output voltage of the power source on a power bus to communicate with a device, such as an inverter, and the load, to track and meet the power demand of the load. By monitoring the power demand and potential threshold exceedances, the system can effectively manage power output without compromising performance.

Furthermore, the patent details a strategy for directing excess output power from the SOFC system to an additional load when the power demand from the primary load drops below a minimum desired operating power level. This approach helps maintain the efficiency of the SOFC system and ensures optimal performance even during fluctuating power demands. Additionally, the method includes provisions for redirecting excess power back to the primary load when demand increases, without relying on auxiliary power sources, thereby enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability. Overall, the patented method offers a comprehensive and efficient approach to power management in SOFC systems, ensuring reliable power supply while optimizing system performance based on varying load demands.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.