Electrical system for a wind turbine

Abstract

An electrical system for a wind turbine having a reduced tower footprint and a method for implementing the same are provided. Accordingly, the electrical system includes a plurality of electrical subsystems having a plurality of electrical subsystem components. At least one electrical subsystem component is integrated with a generator housing. Additionally, the electrical subsystem component is coupled between a stator or rotor of the generator and a generator output connection. The electrical system having the electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing has a reduced tower footprint relative to a nominal design of the electrical system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wind turbines, and more particularly to electrical systems for wind turbines having a reduced uptower footprint compared to existing electrical systems. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wind is considered one of the cleanest and most environmentally friendly energy sources currently available, and wind power is an increasingly important part of the world's energy supply. A modern wind turbine typically includes a tower, generator, gearbox, nacelle, and one or more rotor blades. The nacelle includes a rotor assembly coupled to the gearbox and the generator. The rotor assembly and gearbox are mounted on a bedplate support frame located within the nacelle. The one or more rotor blades use known airfoil principles to capture the kinetic energy of wind. The rotor blades transfer the kinetic energy as rotational energy to a shaft, which couples the rotor blades to the gearbox (or directly to the generator if no gearbox is used). The generator then converts the mechanical energy to electrical energy.

[0003] In modern wind turbines, the electrical energy is typically transmitted to the power grid via an electrical system. Various elements of the electrical system can be located within the nacelle. However, as the size and power generating capacity of wind turbines increase to meet growing demand, the space within the nacelle is increasingly consumed by drive train components. This in turn typically limits the amount of space available for the electrical system within the nacelle. As a result, there is a need to accommodate portions of the electrical system within the reduced amount of free space within the nacelle.

[0004] Accordingly, there is an ongoing need for new and improved electrical systems having a reduced footprint. Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to electrical systems having components redistributed within and around the wind turbine to minimize the amount of free space within the nacelle occupied by elements of the electrical system by reducing the overall footprint of the electrical system. SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the application will be set forth in part in the following description, or can be obvious from the description, or can be learned through practice of the application.

[0006] In an aspect, the present disclosure relates to an electrical system for a wind turbine. The electrical system can include a generator housing located in a nacelle of the wind turbine. A generator can be disposed within the generator housing. The generator can include a stator and a rotor. The stator and / or the rotor can be operably coupled to at least one generator output connection. The electrical system can further include a plurality of electrical subsystems including a plurality of electrical subsystem components. At least one electrical subsystem component can be integrated with the generator housing. The electrical subsystem component can also be operably coupled between the stator and / or the rotor and the generator output connection. The plurality of electrical subsystems can include a stator switch subsystem, a power converter subsystem, and / or a generator step-up transformer.

[0007] In embodiments, the electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing can include a stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and / or a rotor-inductor component of the power converter subsystem.

[0008] In additional embodiments, the stator switch can be operably coupled in-line between the generator output connection and the stator. The generator output connection can be coupled to the generator step-up transformer.

[0009] In further embodiments, the electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing can include a stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and a rotor-inductor component of the power converter subsystem.

[0010] In embodiments, the generator housing can be coupled to a bed support frame of the wind turbine, where the bed support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bed support frame. In such embodiments, the electrical subsystem component can be positioned at least partially within the recess.

[0011] In additional embodiments, the nacelle can define a void between an inner surface of a wall of the nacelle and the generator housing. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the electrical subsystem component can be positioned at least partially within the void.

[0012] In further embodiments, the electrical subsystem component can be electrically grounded by the generator housing.

[0013] In embodiments, the stator switch subsystem can be devoid of a stator ground switch.

[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for reducing the tower footprint of an electrical system of a wind turbine. The method can include disposing a generator within a nacelle of the wind turbine. The generator includes a stator and a rotor disposed within a generator housing. Further, the stator and / or the rotor can be operably coupled to at least one generator output connection. The method can also include positioning a power converter subsystem in a converter cabinet located within the nacelle. The power converter subsystem can be operably coupled to the generator. Further, the method can include integrating a stator switch of a stator switch subsystem with the generator housing. Additionally, the method can include operably coupling the stator switch to the stator or the rotor of the generator and the generator output connection. Further, the method can also include coupling the generator output connection of the generator to a transformer.

[0015] In embodiments, the method can also include retrofitting an existing electrical system of a wind turbine to reduce its overall footprint. Integrating the stator switch therein allows for a reduction in the surface area of the electrical system and / or a reduction in the number of electrical subsystem cabinets relative to a nominal design of the electrical system.

[0016] In additional embodiments, integrating the stator switch can include electrically grounding the stator switch with the generator housing. Further, the integrating can include eliminating a stator ground switch of the stator switch subsystem.

[0017] In further embodiments, the method can include integrating a rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem with the generator housing. The method can also include integrating a voltage feedback assembly of the power converter subsystem with a generator step-up transformer. Integrating the voltage feedback assembly and the rotor-inductor assembly can allow for a reduction in the surface area of the converter cabinet.

[0018] In embodiments, integrating the stator switch with the generator housing can allow for at least one of a reduction in the size and a reduction in the number of electrical system cables positioned within the nacelle.

[0019] In additional embodiments, the wind turbine can include a bedplate support frame positioned within the nacelle. The generator housing can be coupled to the bedplate support frame, and the bedplate support frame can define a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bedplate support frame. The method can also include positioning at least a portion of the stator switch subsystem components and / or the power converter subsystem components within the recess.

[0020] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a wind turbine. The wind turbine can include a tower, a nacelle mounted on top of the tower, and a rotor mounted to the nacelle. The rotor can include a rotatable hub having a plurality of rotor blades secured thereto. The wind turbine can also include an electrical system disposed within the nacelle. The electrical system can include a generator located in the nacelle of the wind turbine. The generator includes a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing. The stator and / or the rotor can be operably coupled to at least one generator output connection. The electrical system can also include a plurality of electrical subsystems including a plurality of electrical subsystem components. The electrical subsystems can include a stator switch subsystem operably coupled to the generator. The electrical subsystems can also include a power converter subsystem positioned in a converter cabinet within the nacelle. The power converter subsystem can be operably coupled to the generator. Additionally, the electrical subsystems can include a generator step-up transformer positioned within the nacelle and operably coupled to the stator switch subsystem and the power converter subsystem. Further, the stator switch and / or power converter subsystem components can be integrated with the generator housing and can be operably coupled between the stator or rotor and the generator output connection. It should be understood that the wind turbine can also include any of the features described herein.

[0021] Technical Solution 1. An electrical system for a wind turbine, the electrical system comprising:

[0022] a generator located in a nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator including a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor being operably coupled to at least one generator output connection; and

[0023] a plurality of electrical subsystems including a plurality of electrical subsystem components, at least one electrical subsystem component being integrated with the generator housing, the at least one electrical subsystem component being operably coupled between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection, the plurality of electrical subsystems including a stator switch subsystem, a power converter subsystem, and a generator step-up transformer.

[0024] Technical Solution 2. The electrical system of Technical Solution 1, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes at least one of a stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and a rotor-inductor component of the power converter subsystem.

[0025] Technical Solution 3. The electrical system of Technical Solution 2, wherein the stator switch is operably coupled between the at least one generator output connection and the stator, and wherein the at least one generator output connection is coupled to the generator step-up transformer.

[0026] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 4. The electrical system of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 2, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing comprises a stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and a rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

[0027] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 5. The electrical system of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 1, wherein the generator housing is coupled to a bed support frame of the wind turbine, wherein the bed support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bed support frame, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is positioned at least partially within the recess.

[0028] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 6. The electrical system of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 1, wherein the nacelle defines a void between an inner surface of a wall of the nacelle and the generator housing, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is positioned at least partially within the void.

[0029] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 7. The electrical system of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 1, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is electrically grounded by the generator housing.

[0030] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 8. The electrical system of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 7, wherein the stator switch subsystem is devoid of a stator ground switch.

[0031] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 9. A method for reducing a tower footprint of an electrical system of a wind turbine, the method comprising:

[0032] positioning a generator in a nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator having a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor being operably coupled to at least one generator output connection;

[0033] positioning a power converter subsystem in a converter cabinet located within the nacelle, the power converter subsystem being operably coupled to the generator;

[0034] integrating a stator switch of a stator switch subsystem with the generator housing;

[0035] operably coupling the stator switch between the stator and the at least one generator output connection; and

[0036] coupling at least one generator output connection of the generator to a transformer.

[0037] TECHNICAL SOLUTION 10. The method of TECHNICAL SOLUTION 9, wherein the method further comprises:

[0038] modifying an existing electrical system of the wind turbine to reduce its overall footprint, wherein integrating the stator switch allows for at least one of: a surface area of the electrical system and a number of electrical subsystem cabinets to be reduced relative to an electrical system nominal design.

[0039] Technical Solution 11. The method of Technical Solution 10, wherein integrating the stator switch includes:

[0040] electrically grounding the stator switch with the generator housing; and

[0041] eliminating a stator grounding switch of the stator switch subsystem.

[0042] Technical Solution 12. The method of Technical Solution 10, wherein the method further includes: wherein integrating the stator switch with the generator housing allows for at least one of a reduction in a specification and a reduction in a number of electrical system cables positioned within the nacelle.

[0043] Technical Solution 13. The method of Technical Solution 9, wherein the method further includes:

[0044] integrating a rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem with the generator housing; and

[0045] integrating a voltage feedback assembly of the power converter subsystem with a generator step-up transformer, wherein integrating the voltage feedback assembly and the rotor-inductor assembly allows for a reduction in a surface area of the converter cabinet.

[0046] Technical Solution 14. The method of Technical Solution 9, wherein the wind turbine further includes a bedplate support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is coupled to the bedplate support frame, wherein the bedplate support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bedplate support frame; the method further includes:

[0047] positioning at least one of the stator switch and power converter subsystem assembly at least partially within the recess.

[0048] Technical Solution 15. A wind turbine, comprising:

[0049] a tower;

[0050] a nacelle mounted atop the tower;

[0051] a rotor mounted to the nacelle, the rotor including a rotatable hub having a plurality of rotor blades secured thereto; and

[0052] an electrical system disposed within the nacelle, the electrical system comprising:

[0053] a generator located in the nacelle, the generator comprising a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor operably coupled to at least one generator output connection,

[0054] a plurality of electrical subsystems comprising a plurality of electrical subsystem components, the plurality of electrical subsystems comprising:

[0055] a stator switch subsystem operably coupled to the generator,

[0056] a power converter subsystem positioned in a converter cabinet within the nacelle, the power converter subsystem operably coupled to the generator, and

[0057] a transformer positioned within the nacelle and operably coupled to the stator switch subsystem and the power converter subsystem; and

[0058] at least one of a stator switch and power converter subsystem component integrated with the generator housing and operably coupled between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection.

[0059] Technical Solution 16. The system of Technical Solution 15, wherein the system further comprises:

[0060] a voltage feedback component of the power converter subsystem integrated with the generator transformer.

[0061] Technical Solution 17. The system of Technical Solution 15, wherein the generator is coupled to the step-up transformer.

[0062] Technical Solution 18. The system of Technical Solution 15, wherein the power converter subsystem component integrated with the generator housing comprises a rotor-inductor component of the power converter subsystem.

[0063] Technical Solution 19. The system of Technical Solution 15, wherein the wind turbine further comprises a bed support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is coupled to the bed support frame, wherein the bed support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bed support frame; and at least one of the stator switch and the power converter subsystem component is positioned at least partially within the recess.

[0064] Technical Solution 20. The system of Technical Solution 15, wherein the stator switch subsystem is devoid of a stator ground switch.

[0065] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present application will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the application and serve to explain the principles of the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0066] A complete and enabling disclosure of the present application, including its best mode, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art follows in the specification along with the appended claims, wherein:

[0067] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0068] Figure 2 shows a perspective interior view of one embodiment of a nacelle of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0069] Figure 3 shows a simplified cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a nacelle of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0070] Figure 4 shows a simplified schematic of an electrical system of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure;

[0071] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an electrical system of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure; and Figure 4

[0072] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of a method for reducing a tower head cover area of an electrical system of a wind turbine according to the present disclosure.

[0073] The repeated use of reference characters in the specification and drawings is intended to denote the same or similar features or elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the application, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the application, not limitation of the application. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present application without departing from the scope or spirit of the application. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present application cover modifications and variations of this application provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. ​

[0075] The terms "coupled," "fixed," "attached" and the like, mean either directly coupled, fixed, or attached, as applicable, or indirectly coupled, fixed or attached via one or more intermediary constituent, features or elements, unless otherwise specified herein.

[0076] As used herein throughout the description and claims, approximate language is applied to quantify any numerical value that can allow for variations that do not alter the basic function to which it relates. Accordingly, a value modified by one or more terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" is not limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximate language can correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or the precision of the method or machine used to construct or manufacture the constituent and / or system. For example, the approximate language can refer to within a margin of ten percent.

[0077] Here, as well as throughout the specification and claims, range limitations are combined and interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein, unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other.

[0078] Generally, the present disclosure relates to an electrical system for a wind turbine having a reduced tower footprint. In particular, the present disclosure includes an electrical system that can integrate one or more electrical subsystem components with a generator housing. For example, a stator switch of a stator switch subsystem can be incorporated with a generator housing. By incorporating the stator switch with the generator housing, the number and / or size of electrical system cabinets located on the tower can be reduced. In other words, by incorporating the stator switch with the generator housing, the stator switch can be incorporated into the space partially occupied by the generator housing, and thus, a separate electrical system cabinet to house the stator switch can not be required. Additionally, integrating the electrical subsystem components with the generator housing can eliminate the need for various components of the electrical system. For example, by incorporating the stator switch with the generator housing, a stator ground switch of the stator switch subsystem can be eliminated.

[0079] Reference is now made to the drawings, Figure 1A perspective view of one embodiment of a wind turbine 100 according to the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the wind turbine 100 generally includes a tower 102 extending from a support surface 104, a nacelle 106 mounted on the tower 102, and a rotor 108 coupled to the nacelle 106. The rotor 108 includes a rotatable hub 110 and at least one rotor blade 112 coupled to and extending outward from the hub 110. For example, in the embodiment shown, the rotor 108 includes three rotor blades 112. However, in alternative embodiments, the rotor 108 can include more or less than three rotor blades 112. Each rotor blade 112 can be spaced about the hub 110 so as to facilitate rotation of the rotor 108 to enable kinetic energy to be converted from the wind into usable mechanical energy and subsequently into electrical energy. For example, the hub 110 can be rotatably coupled to a generator 118 Figure 2 of an electrical system 150 positioned within the nacelle 106 to allow electrical energy to be generated.

[0080] Referring now to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , a simplified internal view and a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the nacelle 106 of the wind turbine 100 shown in Figure 1 is shown. As shown, the generator 118 can be coupled to the rotor 108 for generating electrical power from rotational energy generated by the rotor 108. For example, as shown in the embodiment shown, the rotor 108 can include a rotor shaft 122 coupled to the hub 110 for rotation therewith. The rotor shaft 122 can be rotatably supported by a main bearing. The rotor shaft 122 can in turn be rotatably coupled to a high speed shaft 124 of the generator 118 through an optional gearbox 126 connected to a bedplate support frame 136. As generally understood, the rotor shaft 122 can provide a low speed, high torque input to the gearbox 126 in response to rotation of the rotor blades 112 and the hub 110. The gearbox 126 can then be configured with a plurality of gears to convert the low speed, high torque input into a high speed, low torque output to drive the high speed shaft 124 and thus the generator 118. In embodiments, the gearbox 126 can be configured with a plurality of gear ratios in order to produce varying high speed shaft rotational speeds for a given low speed input, or vice versa.

[0081] The electrical system 150 can include the generator 118 disposed within a generator housing 120. The generator housing 120 can be located within the nacelle 106 of the wind turbine 100. For example, as shown, an inner surface 128 of a wall of the nacelle 106 can define a void 140 about the generator housing 120. Additionally, as shown in Figure 3 , the generator 118 can be coupled to a bedplate support frame 136 of the wind turbine 100. The bedplate support frame 136 can define a recess 138 between the generator housing 120 and a surface of the bedplate support frame 136.

[0082] Referring now to the drawings Figure 4 and Figure 5 , a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an electrical system 150 in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. In embodiments, the electrical system 150 can include various components for converting kinetic energy of the rotor 108 into electrical output in an acceptable form (to a connected power grid). For example, in embodiments, the generator 118 can be a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG). It should be appreciated that while an electrical system 150 using a DFIG generator is presented herein as an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such embodiments and can include electrical systems 150 using any other suitable generator and / or electrical subsystem combination.

[0083] In embodiments, the generator 118 can include a rotor 132 and a stator 130, which can be operatively coupled to a step-up transformer 178. As particularly shown in Figure 5 , the stator 130 can be coupled to the step-up transformer 178 via a stator bus 166. Additionally, the rotor 132 can be coupled to the transformer via a rotor bus 170 and a power converter subsystem 168. In such a configuration, the stator bus 166 can provide output multiphase power (e.g., three-phase power) from the stator 130 of the generator 118, and the rotor bus 170 can provide output multiphase power (e.g., three-phase power) of the rotor 132 of the generator 118. Additionally, the power converter subsystem 168 can include a rotor-side converter 172, which can be coupled to the generator 118 via the rotor bus 170. The rotor-side converter 172 can be coupled to a line-side converter 174 of the power converter subsystem 168, which in turn can be coupled to a line-side bus 176. Additionally, as shown in Figure 4 , the power converter subsystem 168 can include a rotor-inductor assembly 162 and a voltage feedback assembly 164. It should be appreciated that the power converter subsystem 168 can be disposed within a converter cabinet 148 located within the nacelle 106.

[0084] In embodiments, the rotor-side converter 172 and the line-side converter 174 can be configured for normal operating mode in a pulse width modulation (PWM) arrangement using insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) as switching devices for three phases. Other suitable switching devices can be used, such as insulated gate commutated thyristors, MOSFETs, bipolar transistors, silicon-controlled rectifiers, and / or other suitable switching devices. The rotor-side converter 172 and the line-side converter 174 can be coupled via a DC link 173, across which a DC link capacitor 175 can be disposed.

[0085] As Figure 4Further depicted in the embodiment, the electrical system 150 can include a step-up transformer 178 that couples the wind turbine 100 to the power grid 179. In embodiments, the transformer 178 can be a three-winding transformer that includes a high voltage (e.g., greater than 12 KV AC) primary winding 180. The high voltage primary winding 180 can be coupled to the power grid 179. The transformer 178 can also include a medium voltage (e.g., 6 KV AC) secondary winding 182 coupled to the stator bus 166 and a low voltage (e.g., 575 V AC, 690 V AC, etc.) auxiliary winding 184 coupled to the line bus 176. It should be appreciated that the transformer 178 can be a three-winding transformer as depicted, or alternatively, can be a two-winding transformer having only the primary winding 180 and the secondary winding 182; can be a four-winding transformer having the primary winding 180, the secondary winding 182, and an auxiliary winding 184 and an additional auxiliary winding; or can have any other suitable number of windings.

[0086] In additional embodiments, the electrical system 150 can include an auxiliary power feed 186 coupled to the output of the power converter subsystem 168. The auxiliary power feed 186 can serve as a power source for various components of the wind turbine system 100. For example, the auxiliary power feed 186 can provide power to fans, pumps, motors, and other suitable components of the wind turbine system 100.

[0087] Still referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In embodiments, the electrical system 150 can also include a stator switch subsystem 188. In embodiments, the stator switch subsystem 188 can include a stator switch 190 that synchronizes the three-phase power from the stator 130 of the generator 118. Further, the stator switch 190 can include electrical components such as a synchronization switch 192 (e.g., a contactor) and / or an isolator 194, or any suitable combination thereof. The stator switch subsystem 188 can also include such other electrical components, including fuses, resistors, line-side voltage feedback components, and / or relays, as can be required to synchronize the three-phase power from the stator 130.

[0088] Now referring to Figures 3-5 In embodiments, the electrical system 150 can include a plurality of electrical subsystems 142 having a plurality of electrical subsystem components 144. At least one of the electrical subsystem components 144 can be integrated with the generator housing 120. The electrical subsystem components 144 can be operably coupled between the stator 130 or the rotor 132 and the generator output connection 134. It should be appreciated that the electrical subsystems 142 can include any electrical subsystems required to generate and deliver power to the power grid 179. The electrical subsystems 142 may, for example, include the stator switch subsystem 188, the power converter subsystem 168, and / or the generator step-up transformer 178.

[0089] In embodiments, the electrical subsystem assembly 144 can be integrally integrated with the generator housing 120 such that the electrical subsystem assembly 144 is substantially encapsulated by the generator housing 120. In additional embodiments, the electrical subsystem assembly 144 can be at least partially positioned within a recess 138 defined between the generator housing 120 and the bedplate support frame 136. Figure 3 ) In additional embodiments, the electrical subsystem assembly 144 can be at least partially positioned within a void 140 defined between the inner surface 128 of the nacelle 106 and the generator housing 120. It should be appreciated that integrating the electrical subsystem assembly 144 with the generator housing 120 can include at least partially positioning the electrical subsystem assembly 144 within a recess formed in the generator housing 120 and / or coupling the electrical subsystem assembly 144 to a surface of the generator housing 120.

[0090] In embodiments, coupling the electrical subsystem assembly 144 to the generator housing 120 can be achieved by any acceptable means, such as adhesion, welding, and / or mechanical fastening. Additionally, coupling the electrical subsystem assembly 144 to the generator housing 120 can establish an electrical coupling between the electrical subsystem assembly 144 and the generator housing 120. In embodiments, coupling the electrical subsystem assembly 144 and the generator housing can electrically ground the electrical subsystem assembly 144 via the generator housing.

[0091] In embodiments in which the electrical subsystem 142 is a stator switch subsystem 188, a stator switch 190 can be integrated with the generator housing 120. The stator switch 190 can be operably serially coupled between the generator output connection 134 and the stator 130. The generator output connection 134 can then be operably coupled to the transformer 178. In other words, the stator 130 can be serially coupled to the stator switch 190 and the transformer 178 (via the stator bus 166). The stator switch 190 can include electrical components, such as a synchronous switch 192 and / or an isolator 194, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0092] It should be appreciated that integrating the stator switch 190 with the generator housing 120 can eliminate the need for the electrical system 150 to include a stator switchgear. In such embodiments, the connection between the stator 132 and the transformer 178 can not pass through the electrical subsystem cabinet 148 of the electrical system 150. Additionally, in such embodiments, components of the stator switch subsystem 188 not included in the stator switch 190 can be integrated with the power converter subsystem 168 and / or the transformer 178. For example, in embodiments, the isolator 194 can be disposed external to the generator housing 120. In such embodiments, the isolator 194 can be collocated with the transformer 178. Additionally, the isolator 194 can be collocated with the grid-side voltage feedback assembly.

[0093] In embodiments where the stator switch 190 is integrated with the generator housing 120, the stator switch 190 can be electrically grounded via the generator housing 120. With electrical grounding via the generator housing 120, the stator switch subsystem 188 can be devoid of a stator ground switch, as such a ground switch is no longer needed. It should be appreciated that eliminating the need for a stator ground switch can reduce the complexity and / or cost of the electrical system 150.

[0094] In embodiments where the electrical subsystem 142 is the power converter subsystem 168, the rotor-inductor assembly 162 can be integrated with the generator housing 120. The rotor-inductor assembly 162 can be operably coupled between the generator output connection 134 and the rotor 132. The generator output connection 134 can then be operably coupled to the power converter subsystem 168 via the rotor bus 170. In embodiments, the rotor-inductor assembly 162 can include a plurality of inductors and / or variable capacitors.

[0095] In additional embodiments, the voltage feedback assembly 164 of the power converter subsystem 168 can be integrated with the transformer 178. In at least one embodiment, the transformer 178 can be positioned within the nacelle 106 of the wind turbine 100. It should be appreciated that integrating the rotor-inductor assembly 162 with the generator housing 120 and / or the voltage feedback assembly 164 with the generator transformer 178 can facilitate a reduction in the surface area of the converter cabinet relative to the power converter subsystem 168 that retains the rotor-inductor assembly 162 and / or the voltage feedback assembly 164.

[0096] In embodiments, the integration of the stator switch 190 and / or the rotor-inductor assembly 162 can facilitate a reduction in the total footprint of the electrical system 150 relative to embodiments of the electrical system 150 where the electrical subsystem 142 is positioned within a plurality of electrical subsystem cabinets. For example, integrating the electrical subsystem assembly 144 with the generator housing 120 can facilitate the elimination of one of the electrical subsystem cabinets 148 and / or a reduction in the surface area of the electrical subsystem cabinets 148. As a further example, the integration of the electrical subsystem assembly 144 can allow for a reduction in the rating relative to an electrical system nominal design and / or a reduction in the number of electrical system cables positioned within the nacelle 106 relative to an electrical system nominal design. In at least one embodiment, integrating the electrical subsystem assembly 144 with the generator housing 120 and / or the transformer 178 can facilitate the retrofitting of an existing electrical system in order to reduce the total footprint of the electrical system 150 relative to an existing nominal design.

[0097] Referring now to Figure 6 , a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method 300 for generating a tower-top footprint of an electrical system of a wind turbine is shown. The method 300 can use, for example, the electrical system 150 described above with reference to Figures 1-5The electrical system 150 discussed is implemented. For purposes of illustration and discussion, Figure 6 The steps depicted are performed in a particular order. Using the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the various steps of the method 300, or any of the methods disclosed herein, can be adjusted, modified, rearranged, performed simultaneously, or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0098] As shown at (302), the method 300 can include disposing a generator within a nacelle of a wind turbine, the generator having a rotor and a stator disposed within a generator housing. At least one of the stator and the rotor can be operably coupled to at least one generator output connection. As shown at (304), the method 300 can include positioning a power converter subsystem in a converter cabinet located within the nacelle. The power converter subsystem can be operably coupled to the generator. As shown at (306), the method 300 can include integrating a stator switch of a stator switch subsystem with the generator housing. As shown at (308), the method 300 can include operably coupling the stator switch between the stator and the at least one generator output connection. Also as shown at (310), the method 300 can include coupling the at least one generator output connection of the generator to a step-up transformer.

[0099] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various features of the described implementations can be interchanged, substituted, and / or combined according to other implementations. Similarly, various method steps and features described above, and other known equivalents for each such step and feature, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to construct additional systems and techniques, in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. It is therefore intended that the disclosure not be limited to the described implementations, but that it include all implementations that are within the scope of the appended claims, and their equivalents. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the systems and techniques described herein can be embodied not only in methods, but also in apparatuses and systems, and in computer program products that include instructions for implementing the steps of the methods and techniques described herein.

[0100] This written description uses examples to disclose the application, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the application, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the application is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent

[0101] Further aspects of the application are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0102] Clause 1. An electrical system for a wind turbine, the electrical system comprising: a generator located in a nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator including a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor operably coupled to at least one generator output connection; and a plurality of electrical subsystems including a plurality of electrical subsystem components, at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing, the at least one electrical subsystem component operably coupled between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection, the plurality of electrical subsystems including a stator switch subsystem, a power converter subsystem, and a generator step-up transformer.

[0103] Clause 2. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes at least one of a stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and a rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

[0104] Clause 3. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the stator switch is operably coupled between the at least one generator output connection and the stator, and wherein the at least one generator output connection is coupled to the generator step-up transformer.

[0105] Clause 4. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes the stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and the rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

[0106] Clause 5. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the generator housing is coupled to a bedplate support frame of the wind turbine, wherein the bedplate support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bedplate support frame, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is positioned at least partially within the recess.

[0107] Clause 6. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the nacelle defines a void between an inner surface of a wall of the nacelle and the generator housing, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is positioned at least partially within the void.

[0108] Clause 7. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the at least one electrical subsystem component is electrically grounded by the generator housing.

[0109] Clause 8. The electrical system of any preceding clause, wherein the stator switch subsystem is free of a stator ground switch.

[0110] Clause 9. A method for reducing the tower footprint of an electrical system of a wind turbine, the method comprising: disposing a generator in a nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator having a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor being operably coupled to at least one generator output connection; positioning a power converter subsystem in a converter cabinet located within the nacelle, the power converter subsystem being operably coupled to the generator; integrating a stator switch of a stator switch subsystem with the generator housing; operably coupling the stator switch between the stator and the at least one generator output connection; and coupling the at least one generator output connection of the generator to a transformer.

[0111] Clause 10. The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: retrofitting an existing electrical system of the wind turbine to reduce its overall footprint, wherein integrating the stator switch allows for at least one of: a reduction in a surface area of the electrical system and a reduction in a number of electrical subsystem cabinets relative to a nominal design of the electrical system.

[0112] Clause 11. The method of any preceding clause, wherein integrating the stator switch comprises: electrically grounding the stator switch with the generator housing; and eliminating a stator ground switch of the stator switch subsystem.

[0113] Clause 12. The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: wherein integrating the stator switch with the generator housing allows for at least one of: a reduction in a specification and a reduction in a number of electrical system cables positioned within the nacelle.

[0114] Clause 13. The method of any preceding clause, further comprising: integrating a rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem with the generator housing; and integrating a voltage feedback assembly of the power converter subsystem with a generator step-up transformer, wherein integrating the voltage feedback assembly and the rotor-inductor assembly allows for a reduction in a surface area of the converter cabinet.

[0115] Clause 14. The method of any preceding clause, wherein the wind turbine further comprises a bedplate support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is coupled to the bedplate support frame, wherein the bedplate support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bedplate support frame; the method further comprising: positioning at least one of the stator switch and the power converter subsystem assembly at least partially within the recess.

[0116] Clause 15. A wind turbine, comprising: a tower; a nacelle mounted atop the tower; a rotor mounted to the nacelle, the rotor comprising a rotatable hub having a plurality of rotor blades secured thereto; and an electrical system disposed within the nacelle, the electrical system comprising: a generator located in the nacelle, the generator comprising a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor operably coupled to at least one generator output connection; a plurality of electrical subsystems comprising a plurality of electrical subsystem components, the plurality of electrical subsystems comprising: a stator switch subsystem operably coupled to the generator; a power converter subsystem positioned in a converter cabinet within the nacelle, the power converter subsystem operably coupled to the generator; and a transformer positioned within the nacelle and operably coupled to the stator switch subsystem and the power converter subsystem; and at least one of the stator switch and power converter subsystem components integrated with the generator housing and operably coupled between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection.

[0117] Clause 16. The system of any preceding clause, further comprising: a voltage feedback component of the power converter subsystem integrated with the generator transformer.

[0118] Clause 17. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the generator is coupled to a step-up transformer.

[0119] Clause 18. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the power converter subsystem component integrated with the generator housing comprises a rotor-inductor component of the power converter subsystem.

[0120] Clause 19. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the wind turbine further comprises a bedplate support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is coupled to the bedplate support frame, wherein the bedplate support frame defines a recess between the generator housing and a surface of the bedplate support frame; and at least one of the stator switch and power converter subsystem components is positioned at least partially within the recess.

[0121] Clause 20. The system of any preceding clause, wherein the stator switch subsystem is devoid of a stator ground switch.

Claims

1. An electrical system for a wind turbine, the electrical system comprising: A generator located in the nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator including a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor being operatively connected to at least one generator output connection; as well as Multiple electrical subsystems, including multiple electrical subsystem components, at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing, the at least one electrical subsystem component being operatively connected between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection, the multiple electrical subsystems including a stator switching subsystem, a power converter subsystem, and a generator step-up transformer. The generator housing is connected to a platform support frame of the wind turbine, wherein the platform support frame defines a recess between the surfaces of the generator housing and the platform support frame, and wherein at least one electrical subsystem component is at least partially located within the recess.

2. The electrical system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes at least one of the stator switch of the stator switch subsystem and the rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

3. The electrical system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The stator switch is operably connected between the at least one generator output connector and the stator, and the at least one generator output connector is connected to the generator step-up transformer.

4. The electrical system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one electrical subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes the stator switch of the stator switching subsystem and the rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

5. The electrical system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nacelle defines a gap between the inner surface of the nacelle wall and the generator housing, wherein at least one electrical subsystem component is at least partially located within the gap.

6. The electrical system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one electrical subsystem component is electrically grounded by the generator housing.

7. The electrical system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The stator switch subsystem does not have a stator grounding switch.

8. A method for reducing the coverage area on the tower of an electrical system for a wind turbine, the method comprising: The generator is housed in the nacelle of the wind turbine, the generator having a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and the rotor being operatively connected to at least one generator output connection. The power converter subsystem is positioned in a converter cabinet located within the nacelle, and the power converter subsystem is operatively connected to the generator; The stator switch of the stator switch subsystem is integrated with the generator housing; The stator switch is operably connected between the stator and the at least one generator output connection; as well as Connect at least one generator output connector of the generator to the transformer. The wind turbine further includes a platform support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is connected to the platform support frame, wherein the platform support frame defines a recess between the surfaces of the generator housing and the platform support frame, and the method further includes positioning the stator switch at least partially within the recess.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The existing electrical system of the wind turbine is modified to reduce its total coverage area, wherein integrating the stator switch allows at least one of the following: a reduction in the surface area of ​​the electrical system and the number of electrical subsystem cabinets relative to the nominal design of the electrical system.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The integrated stator switch includes: The stator switch is electrically grounded using the generator housing; and Eliminate the stator grounding switch of the stator switching subsystem.

11. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of integrating the stator switch with the generator housing allowing for a reduction in size and a reduction in the number of electrical system cables located within the nacelle.

12. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Integrate the rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem with the generator housing; and Integrating the voltage feedback component of the power converter subsystem with the generator step-up transformer allows for a reduction in the surface area of ​​the converter cabinet, whereby the integration of the voltage feedback component and the rotor-inductor assembly enables a reduction in the surface area of ​​the converter cabinet.

13. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The power converter subsystem components are positioned at least partially within the recess.

14. A wind turbine, comprising: Tower; The nacelle is mounted on top of the tower; A rotor, the rotor being mounted to the nacelle, the rotor including a rotatable hub having a plurality of rotor blades fixed thereto; as well as An electrical system, located within the cabin, comprising: A generator, located in the nacelle, comprising a stator and a rotor housed within a generator housing, at least one of the stator and rotor being operatively connected to at least one generator output connection. Multiple electrical subsystems, comprising multiple electrical subsystem components, the multiple electrical subsystems including: A stator switching subsystem, operably connected to the generator. A power converter subsystem, located in a converter cabinet within the nacelle, operatively connected to the generator, and... A transformer, located within the nacelle and operatively connected to the stator switching subsystem and the power converter subsystem; and At least one of the stator switch and power converter subsystem components, which is integrated with the generator housing and operably coupled between the stator or the rotor and the at least one generator output connection, The wind turbine further includes a platform support frame positioned within the nacelle, wherein the generator housing is coupled to the platform support frame, wherein the platform support frame defines a recess between the surfaces of the generator housing and the platform support frame; and at least one of the stator switch and the power converter subsystem component is at least partially positioned within the recess.

15. The wind turbine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The wind turbine also includes: The voltage feedback component of the power converter subsystem integrated with the transformer.

16. The wind turbine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The generator is connected to the transformer.

17. The wind turbine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The power converter subsystem component integrated with the generator housing includes the rotor-inductor assembly of the power converter subsystem.

18. The wind turbine according to claim 14, characterized in that, The stator switch subsystem does not have a stator grounding switch.

Images