Abstract: In a power control system a server maintains asset models that represent asset behaviour, each asset model being in real-time communication with its asset to dynamically inform the model of the status of the asset. A test is performed at the server by issuing a command to an asset requesting the asset to perform a function. Sensors at the asset measure physical parameters at the asset and report these to the server. The server determines whether the asset responded to the command and, if the asset responded, how it responded over time. The server establishes a model for the asset in terms of an energy capacitance and a time constant based on the measured response. An optimizer determines which assets are to participate in which service models. The server sends instructions to the selected assets to attempt to fulfill the services.

Abstract: A power distribution control system for controlling a plurality of power assets connected to a power grid is provided. The system includes a server which can identify a set of power assets selected from sources, loads, and stores that are to form a string and provide to the string instructions for response to a change in the power grid. The system further includes a router for each of the power assets in the string, for receiving instructions from the server and for controlling the respective power asset. The power assets in the string are selected by the server to have different response times and/or response profiles, such that the string of assets present a collective response to the change, the collective response being defined by the server.

Abstract: In a power control system a server maintains asset models that represent asset behaviour, each asset model being in real-time communication with its asset to dynamically inform the model of the status of the asset. A test is performed at the server by issuing a command to an asset requesting the asset to perform a function. Sensors at the asset measure physical parameters at the asset and report these to the server. The server determines whether the asset responded to the command and, if the asset responded, how it responded over time. The server establishes a model for the asset in terms of an energy capacitance and a time constant based on the measured response. An optimizer determines which assets are to participate in which service models. The server sends instructions to the selected assets to attempt to fulfill the services.

Abstract: A power distribution control system for controlling a plurality of power assets connected to a power grid is provided. The system includes a server which can identify a set of power assets selected from sources, loads, and stores that are to form a string and provide to the string instructions for response to a change in the power grid. The system further includes a router for each of the power assets in the string, for receiving instructions from the server and for controlling the respective power asset. The power assets in the string are selected by the server to have different response times and/or response profiles, such that the string of assets present a collective response to the change, the collective response being defined by the server.

Abstract: An electric and hybrid Vertical-Take Off and Landing (“VTOL”) aircraft is disclosed comprising a plurality of small Electric Ducted Fans (“EDFs”) of various sizes and orientations. The thrust of each fixed EDF is individually controlled by modulation of motor power by one or more onboard microcomputers connected to a plurality of onboard laser distance measuring sensors, at least three onboard three-axis accelerometers and at least one GPS thereby allowing extremely precise and safe VTOL operation. The aircraft may be employed to allow robotic and passenger vehicles to transition extremely quickly between normal linear flight and VTOL and tb operate in extreme and gusty conditions.

Abstract: An electric and hybrid Vertical-Take Off and Landing (“VTOL”) aircraft is disclosed comprising a plurality of small Electric Ducted Fans (“EDFs”) of various sizes and orientations. The thrust of each fixed EDF is individually controlled by modulation of motor power by one or more onboard microcomputers connected to a plurality of onboard laser distance measuring sensors, at least three onboard three-axis accelerometers and at least one GPS thereby allowing extremely precise and safe VTOL operation. The aircraft may be employed to allow robotic and passenger vehicles to transition extremely quickly between normal linear flight and VTOL and to operate in extreme and gusty conditions.

Abstract: An electric and hybrid Vertical-Take Off and Landing (“VTOL”) aircraft is disclosed comprising a plurality of small Electric Ducted Fans (“EDFs”) of various sizes and orientations. The thrust of each fixed EDF is individually controlled by modulation of motor power by one or more onboard microcomputers connected to a plurality of onboard laser distance measuring sensors, at least three onboard three-axis accelerometers and at least one GPS thereby allowing extremely precise and safe VTOL operation. The aircraft may be employed to allow robotic and passenger vehicles to transition extremely quickly between normal linear flight and VTOL and tb operate in extreme and gusty conditions.