Abstract: A method of operating a microgrid includes operating one of a plurality of power sources to deliver power to the microgrid. The method also includes measuring a quantity of power delivered to the microgrid, drawing power from the microgrid to power one of a plurality of loads, each load including a plurality of separately operable subsystems, and calculating an automation level and a production change capability for each load and subsystem of the plurality of subsystems. The method also includes measuring a quantity of power drawn from the microgrid and reducing the quantity of power drawn from the microgrid in response to a measured quantity of power drawn exceeding a measured quantity of power provided.

Abstract: A method of operating a microgrid while isolated from an outside grid includes dispatching a plurality of green generating systems to deliver a first quantity of power to the microgrid. The method also includes drawing a second quantity of power from the microgrid to power a system that operates to produce a final output product. The method also includes calculating a power different between the first quantity of power and the second quantity of power and reducing the second quantity of power in response to the power difference indicating that the second quantity of power is greater than the first quantity of power.

Abstract: A hydraulic system having multiple actuators is provided with positive pressure flow equalization for both advancing and retracting movements of the system by means of first and second flow divider elements for each actuator. The flow divider elements are cross-coupled between the actuators, a controllable source of pressurized fluid and a reservoir. The flow divider elements are positive-displacement gear or vane pump units that are connected by a common shaft for coordinating fluid flow to the various actuators. Two or more of the actuators can be connected for lifting a load such as an automobile, the system being provided with safety latches at each actuator, the flow dividers not only coordinating the actuator movements during normal raising and lowering operation, but also preventing loss of synchronization of the actuators in case of engagement of a subset only of the latches.