What's needed?

Certain microgrids incorporate external relays to enable the connection or disconnection of components within the microgrid. These relays are controlled by writing a binary value (true/false, 1/0) to a digital output of a micro-controller situated within the local microgrid. Subsequently, the digital output operates the external relay, facilitating the switching mechanism. As part of our implementation, we aim to support and facilitate the control of these switching mechanisms to enhance the microgrid's functionality and flexibility.

Proposed solution

To enhance the functionality of our system, we propose adding a new variant, COMPONENT_CATEGORY_RELAY, to the existing ComponentCategory enum. This new category will enable us to handle components equipped with relays. Specifically, this variant will support both data reading capabilities and the ability to send control commands to switch the relay on or off.

In terms of connections in the Microgrid API, components of this category will be positioned directly in front of the components that require connection or disconnection, e,g, inverters and batteries.

Use cases

No response

Alternatives and workarounds

No response

Additional context

No response