Research Projects

FlexBlue

Flexible refrigeration systems against the background of increased decarbonization – data-driven modelling and development of generic algorithms for scalable schedule optimization of heterogeneos refrigeration applications

Start: 01.2024

End: 12.2026

Against the background of accelerating the energy transition, the FlexBlue project aims to bring together relevant players of the flexibility value chain in the refrigeration sector to overcome current obstacles to the flexibilization of refrigeration systems.

The project consists of four sub-projects (SPs).
  • In sub-project A, two demonstrators will be built, operated, measured, and evaluated in real-world operation environments.
  • Sub-project B will define the operational interfaces between the players of the flexibility value chain and evaluate the inhibiting effects of the interface design on the intended flexibility potential.
  • The agenda of sub-project C is knowledge transfer and activation of participants.
  • Sub-project D aims to overcome the obstacles to a later transferability of the findings. To this end, scalable methods and schemes will be developed that are cost-effective and easily implementable.

The FZI leads sub-project D, developing generic algorithms for load forecast generation, calculating optimized schedules, and monitoring plant operations. The aim of the generic algorithms is the scalable application to numerous heterogeneous refrigeration applications with storage. The developed algorithms and procedures will be tested within sub-project A at the demonstrators. Here, the FZI implements the software for ICT connectivity of the installed sensors and actuators of the refrigeration systems. The FZI also supports activities in work packages of sub-projects B and C, such as configuring the demonstrators with sensors and actuators and defining operating strategies for the latter.

Contact

David Wölfle

Research Scientist
Division: Intelligent Systems and Production Engineering

Research focus

Applied Artificial Intelligence

In this research focus, the FZI concentrates on practical research into the key technology of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Innovative AI solutions are developed and transferred to application areas such as mobility, robotics, healthcare technology, logistics, production, and supply and disposal on behalf of our partners and customers.

Sustainable Engineering and Energy

This research focus includes the research and design of sustainable IT innovations in the cross-sectional areas of energy, mobility, production, water management, and logistics. This involves developing systems that promote the ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable use of resources, and providing strategic consultancy services to companies, particularly SMEs, on their path to greater sustainability.

Funding notice:
The FlexBlue project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy on the basis of a resolution passed by the German Bundestag.

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