System and method for operating cluster of fluid turbines

Abstract

This disclosure describes numerous innovations, including, but not limited to, systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media containing instructions for controlling an energy generator. A system for controlling an energy generator includes a detector for sensing an indicator of electrical energy generated by the energy generator; an energy storage component configured to, in a first mode of operation, store energy generated during the sub-threshold level of operation that is insufficient to be supplied to the electrical energy receiver in real time; an energy converter configured to provide, in a second mode of operation, energy generated during operation above a threshold level for supplying energy to the electrical energy receiver in real time; and a controllable switch electrically associated with the detector and configured to alternately switch between a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation based on the indicator, thereby allowing harvesting and intermittent use of energy generated at a sub-threshold level.

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This disclosure claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 329,900, filed on April 12, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of fluid turbines. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for operating a cluster of fluid turbines. Background Art

[0003] As the challenges posed by climate change continue to grow, more and more attention has been paid to green energy alternatives to fossil fuels. Some attractive alternatives to fossil fuels include turbines that use fluid flows (such as wind, ocean currents, steam flows, or gas flows) to generate power. In some cases, because physical limitations restrict the energy that can be produced by a single turbine, clusters of turbines can be built so that the energy produced by multiple turbines can be aggregated. For example, aggregating the energy produced by a cluster of turbines can fully expand the production of green energy, thereby providing a reliable supply of green energy to the power grid as an alternative to fossil fuels. However, clusters of fluid turbines may require coordinated maintenance, repairs, and safety inspections. In addition, in some cases, coordinating the operation of clusters of turbines can improve performance, enabling them to increase the production of green energy with greater efficiency. Therefore, systems and methods for the operation of coordinated clusters of turbines can help. Summary of the invention

[0004] Embodiments consistent with the present disclosure provide systems and methods generally related to operating a geographically associated cluster of fluid turbines. The disclosed systems and methods can be implemented using a combination of conventional hardware and software and special-purpose hardware and software, such as a machine specially constructed and / or programmed to perform the functions associated with the disclosed method steps. Consistent with other disclosed embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium can store program instructions that can be executed by at least one processing device and perform any of the steps and / or methods described in the present disclosure.

[0005] Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for controlling an energy generator consistent with the disclosed embodiments are disclosed. Embodiments may include at least one processor configured to: receive a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by the energy generator; compare the received indicator with a threshold associated with supplying energy to an associated electrical energy receiver in real time; and control a controllable switch based on the comparison, wherein the controllable switch is configured to alternately switch between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a subthreshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated electrical energy receiver in real time is stored in at least one energy storage component, and during the second operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a threshold level for supplying energy to the associated electrical energy receiver in real time is provided to the associated electrical energy receiver via an energy converter, and wherein alternating switching between the first operating mode and the second operating mode allows the energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

[0006] Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for controlling a total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines consistent with the disclosed embodiments are disclosed. Embodiments may include at least one processor configured to: receive a target voltage level for a cluster of fluid turbines; receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is below the target voltage level; and output a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers based on the received indication of the DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, wherein: Each control signal is configured to regulate each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at a target voltage level such that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

[0007] Systems, methods, and computer-readable media consistent with disclosed embodiments for delivering power from a cluster of fluid turbines to an electrical grid are disclosed. Embodiments may include at least one processor configured to: Confirm that the connection between the fluid turbine cluster and the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter; when it is confirmed that the power grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, allow the total DC voltage to be inverted into an AC voltage compatible with the power grid, and allow the AC voltage to be output to the power grid; and when it is not confirmed that the power grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, prevent the AC voltage from being output to the power grid.

[0008] Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for dual-channel control of a fluid turbine consistent with disclosed embodiments are disclosed. Embodiments may include at least one processor configured to: receive a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating a power fluctuation generated by a fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold; access an MPPT protocol; determine a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol; apply the portion of the MPPT protocol to a generator of the fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol, wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator; receive a second signal via a DC channel, the second signal indicating a level of energy stored in the capacitor; and use the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 Various exemplary fluid turbines are shown, each consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2A is a diagram of a fluid energy conversion system including a fluid turbine coupled to an energy generator consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2B is a top view of an exemplary fluid energy conversion system including an outer stator and an inner rotor consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2C is a top view of an exemplary fluid energy conversion system including an outer rotor and an inner stator consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3 is a diagram of an exemplary geographically associated cluster of fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary fluid energy conversion system consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure, The system is configured to generate electrical power from the fluid flow and output the generated electrical power to an energy receiver.

[0015] Figure 5 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a charge controller connected to at least one sensor consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 is a top view of an exemplary fluid turbine configured with at least one mechanical brake, consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8 is another schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 9 is another schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig.10 is another schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig.11 is another schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Fig.12 is an exemplary graph showing output power versus rotational speed for a fluid turbine when operated at various fluid velocities consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig.13 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary braking circuit consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig.14 is an example graph of a periodic power signal produced by a generator connected to a fluid turbine, consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig.15 A flow chart of an exemplary process for controlling an energy generator consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Fig.16 A flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for controlling the total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Fig.17 A flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for transferring power from a cluster of fluid turbines to a grid, consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0028] Fig.18 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary dual-channel controller for a fluid turbine consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.19A flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for dual-channel control of a fluid turbine consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media for controlling and / or coordinating the operation of one or more fluid turbines (e.g., a geographically associated cluster of fluid turbines). The fluid turbines referred to herein may be configured to utilize energy from wind, water, steam, and / or airflow. Although some non-limiting examples related to wind turbines (particularly vertical wind turbines) are given, these examples are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the present disclosure. In addition, in some cases, the term "fluid turbine" may be understood to include a generator in an overall fluid energy conversion system.

[0031] When discussing in conjunction with different disclosed embodiments, various terms used in this detailed description and in the claims may be defined or summarized differently. It should be understood that even without repetitive description, the term definitions, summaries and explanations in each case apply to all cases, unless the transitional definition, explanation or summary would render the embodiment inoperable.

[0032] Throughout this disclosure, references to "disclosed embodiments" refer to examples of the inventive ideas, concepts, and / or manifestations described herein. Many related and unrelated embodiments are described throughout this disclosure. The fact that some "disclosed embodiments" are described as exhibiting certain features or characteristics does not mean that other disclosed embodiments necessarily lack such features or characteristics.

[0033] The present disclosure uses open permissive language, for example, indicating that some embodiments "may" employ, involve, or include a particular feature. The use of the term "may" and other open terms is intended to indicate that although not every embodiment may employ a particular disclosed feature, at least one embodiment employs a particular disclosed feature.

[0034] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar parts. Although several exemplary embodiments are described herein, modifications, adjustments and other embodiments are possible. For example, the components shown in the drawings may be replaced, added or modified, and the illustrative methods described in the present disclosure may be modified by replacing, reordering, deleting or adding steps of the disclosed methods. Therefore, the following detailed description is not limited to specific embodiments and examples, but includes the general principles described herein and shown in the drawings in addition to the general principles covered by the appended claims.

[0035] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to systems, devices, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media for operating one or more fluid turbines (e.g., a cluster of fluid turbines) under variable fluid conditions. In some cases, each fluid turbine in the cluster may be exposed to substantially the same environmental factors (e.g., the same or similar wind conditions, water flow, and temperature). Under low fluid conditions, the energy generated by one or more fluid turbines may not meet one or more threshold requirements associated with supplying the generated electrical energy to the power grid. For example, the AC voltage generated under low fluid conditions may not meet the threshold required by the inverter and / or the power grid. Low fluid conditions may refer to fluids with a fluid velocity below a minimum fluid flow threshold. For example, fluid turbine power generation may require a fluid velocity above a minimum power threshold. The disclosed embodiments may allow the energy generated under low fluid conditions to be utilized to improve the operating efficiency of one or more fluid turbines, and facilitate compliance with one or more standards and / or regulations for supplying AC power to the power grid.

[0036] Flow (e.g., fluid flow) can refer to the movement or continuous deformation of a fluid under an applied force. Flow can correspond to the kinetic energy of the fluid particles or molecules. For example, a temperature gradient in a fluid can cause hotter fluid to rise and cooler fluid to sink in a circulating flow. Uneven heating of the Earth by the sun (e.g., combined with the Earth's rotation) can cause winds (e.g., air currents). Similarly, wind, differences in water density, gravity, and the Earth's rotation can all cause ocean currents (e.g., water currents). Examples of turbines that capture energy from flow can include windmills, water wheels, steam turbines, or gas turbines.

[0037] Wind current can refer to the flow of a fluid consisting of air. Water current can refer to the flow of a fluid consisting of water, such as an ocean current or a river.

[0038] A fluid turbine may include a device configured to generate electricity from a fluid flow (e.g., water flow, steam flow, air flow, or wind flow) A fluid turbine is a mechanical device that captures energy from a fluid and converts the captured energy into the form of work (e.g., rotational motion). A fluid turbine may include at least one moving part that is coupled to a plurality of blades connected to a shaft. The fluid turbine may rotate, for example, in response to an airflow on a plurality of blades, in response to a water flow on an impeller (e.g., a paddle wheel, a water wheel), or in response to steam or airflow. A plurality of blades and a shaft may be connected to a rotor of a generator for converting the mechanical rotational motion of a plurality of blades and a shaft into electrical energy, as described in more detail below. A fluid turbine may have a horizontal axis of rotation (e.g., an axis about which the fluid turbine rotates is substantially parallel to the ground or flow), or a vertical axis of rotation (e.g., an axis about which the fluid turbine rotates is at right angles to the ground or flow). In some embodiments, the axis of rotation may be neither horizontal nor vertical, while in other embodiments, the axis of rotation may be variable. When the fluid flow exceeds a lower limit (e.g., a cut-in value), the fluid turbine may start generating electricity.

[0039] The shaft of a fluid turbine can include a rod, bar, column, bracket, tower, or any other shaft or axis. In some embodiments, the shaft can be used to support one or more objects. For example, the blades of a vertical fluid turbine can be connected to the shaft, allowing the blades to be vertically supported by the shaft that can rotate with the blades. Connecting the shaft with the blades to the rotor can convert the kinetic energy of the flowing fluid into the rotational motion of the rotor to generate electricity. As another example, the blades of an impeller can be connected to a horizontally oriented shaft that can rotate with the blades.

[0040] A blade of a turbine (e.g., as part of a plurality of blades) may refer to an object having a cross-sectional shape with a curved surface (e.g., an airfoil or cup shape typical of a drag-type turbine) that is configured to cause motion (e.g., rotational motion) consistent with the motion of a fluid impinging on the blade. A fluid turbine may include a plurality of blades mounted on the edge of a disk. The movement of the fluid through the blades may generate a tangential force that causes a rotor to which it is connected to rotate. The flowing fluid may act on the blades of the fluid turbine, causing the blades to rotate and transfer rotational energy to the rotor. The blades may extend from the rotor in that they protrude from the rotor or protrude from a mounting plate that is mechanically connected to the rotor. Connecting the plurality of blades to the rotor (e.g., directly or indirectly) may cause the plurality of blades to extend outwardly and / or upwardly from the rotor.

[0041] A fluid turbine cluster may refer to a plurality of fluid turbines placed relatively close to each other to form a fluid turbine group or set. A fluid turbine cluster may include at least two fluid turbines located at a location including a plurality of fluid turbines. In some embodiments, a fluid turbine cluster may include all fluid turbines at a certain location. In some embodiments, a fluid turbine cluster may include a minority of all fluid turbines located at a certain location. The fluid turbines in the cluster may be positioned in such an arrangement that each fluid turbine may be exposed to substantially similar environmental conditions and fluid flows (e.g., wind conditions, temperature, precipitation, water flow). In some embodiments, at least some of the fluid turbines in the cluster may be fluidly coupled so that the blade motion of the fluid-coupled upstream fluid turbine may cause fluid flow or turbulence, which may affect the blade motion of the fluid-coupled downstream fluid turbine in the cluster. In some embodiments, each fluid turbine in the cluster may be fluidly coupled to at least one other fluid turbine. In some embodiments, at least one fluid turbine in the cluster may be independent so that the blade motion of an independent turbine in the cluster may be independent of the blade motion of any other fluid turbine in the cluster and may not affect the blade motion of any other fluid turbine in the cluster. In some embodiments, each fluid turbine in a cluster may be independent.

[0042] Electrical energy may refer to energy associated with charged particles. Electrical energy may be provided in the form of electrical current (e.g., flow of electrons) via electrical potential (e.g., voltage). A fluid turbine coupled to an energy generator may convert mechanical energy (e.g., in fluid flow) into electrical energy to supply an electrical energy receiver, such as a capacitor, a battery, an electrical load, and / or a power grid.

[0043] Voltage can refer to the difference in electrical potential between two points. Voltage can be related to tension between two points to reduce or eliminate the potential difference between the two points. For example, the flow of current from one point to another (i.e. across a potential difference) can reduce tension.

[0044] Power (e.g., electrical power) can refer to the rate at which electrical energy is transferred through an electrical circuit. Electrical power can be measured in watts (e.g., kilowatts or megawatts) and can refer to the rate at which an electrical circuit transfers electrical energy. Power can be calculated from known voltage and / or current levels (e.g., watts = volts x amps). Electrical power can be generated by a generator (e.g., connected to a fluid turbine). As used herein, the phrases "power generated by a fluid turbine" or "power output by a fluid turbine" can refer to the power generated by an energy generator associated with a fluid turbine.

[0045] An energy generator (e.g., an alternator) may include a device configured to convert dynamic or mechanical power into electrical power. The energy generator may include a rotor and a stator, wherein a winding (e.g., a copper wire) may be electromagnetically coupled to an alternating magnetic field to convert non-electrical energy (e.g., rotational energy or kinetic energy) into electrical energy. The energy generator may be associated with a fluid turbine (e.g., a steam, water, air, and / or gas turbine). The mechanical energy of the rotational motion of the fluid turbine may be transferred to the rotor of the generator. The rotational motion of the rotor may cause an alternating magnetic field to be generated around the winding, thereby generating an alternating current, thereby converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the rotor may include one or more magnets, and the stator may include windings. In some embodiments, the rotor may include windings and the stator may include one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the rotor may be configured to rotate within the stator (e.g., the stator may be formed as a ring or annular ring around the rotor). In some embodiments, the rotor may be configured to rotate around the stator (e.g., the rotor may be formed as a ring or annular ring around the stator). In some embodiments, the rotor of the energy generator may be connected to rotatable blades and / or a rotatable shaft of a fluid turbine, thereby allowing the rotor to rotate in response to fluid flow.

[0046] A rotor may refer to a rotating component of an electromagnetic system (e.g., an electric motor, a generator, or an alternator). The rotor may rotate, turn, or spin to produce torque about the axis of the rotor. A stator may refer to a stationary (e.g., non-moving) component in a rotating electromagnetic system. The rotor, being electromagnetically coupled to the stator, may allow interaction between electromagnetic coils of electrical conductors (e.g., windings) and alternating magnetic fields. These interactions may allow electrical energy to be converted into mechanical energy as rotational motion (e.g., as in an electric motor), and mechanical energy as rotational motion to be converted into electrical energy (e.g., as in a generator). For example, energy may flow from a rotating component to a stator, as in an energy generator, where the stator may convert a rotating magnetic field into alternating current.

[0047] The electronic circuit may include any combination of electronic components (e.g., one or more memory cells, switches, transistors, diodes, gates, capacitors, inductors, resistors, transformers, converters, inverters, rectifiers, DC-DC converters, more power supplies, voltage sensors, current sensors, or other electronic components) connected via one or more connecting wires and / or contacts for performing one or more operations (e.g., logical operations) in response to receiving electrical signals as inputs (e.g., from at least one processor operating as a controller). The circuit may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs), including one or more processors. The circuit may also include one or more communication channels and / or links. The communication link may couple one or more ICs to the memory, thereby permitting one or more ICs to receive computing instructions and / or data stored thereon required to perform the corresponding logical operations. The communication channel coupling one or more ICs to the memory may include a wired channel, such as one or more cables, optical fibers, wires, buses, and any other mechanically coupled communication channel. The communication channel may include a wireless channel, such as short-wave, medium-wave, and long-wave radio communication channels (e.g., Wifi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, cellular, satellite), optical, and acoustic communication channels. The communication channel or link may include wires, cables, and / or optical fibers configured to transmit power (e.g., AC power and / or DC power) generated by one or more fluid turbines. The communication channel or link may include a communication link for transmitting electronic signals readable by at least one processor.

[0048] At least one processor may constitute any physical device or device group having a circuit that performs a logical operation on one or more inputs. For example, at least one processor may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs), including application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), microchips, microcontrollers, microprocessors, all or part of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a server, a virtual server, or other circuits suitable for executing instructions or performing logical operations. The instructions executed by at least one processor may be preloaded into a memory integrated with or embedded in a controller, for example, or may be stored in a separate memory. The memory may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, an optical disk, a magnetic medium, a flash memory, other permanent, fixed or volatile memory, or any other mechanism capable of storing instructions. In some embodiments, at least one processor may include more than one processor. Each processor may have a similar structure, or the processors may have different structures that are electrically connected or disconnected from each other. For example, the processor may be an independent circuit or may be integrated in a single circuit. When multiple processors are used, the processors may be configured to operate independently or collaboratively, and may be located at the same location or remotely located from each other. The processors may be coupled electrically, magnetically, optically, acoustically, mechanically, or by other means that allow them to interact.

[0049] The processor can be configured to perform calculations and operations, such as arithmetic and / or logical operations to execute software instructions, control and run processes, and store, operate, and delete data in memory. Examples of processors can include microprocessors manufactured by Intel™. The processor can include a single-core processor or a multi-core processor that simultaneously executes parallel processes. It is understood that other types of processor devices can be implemented to provide the capabilities disclosed herein.

[0050] At least one processor may include a single processor or multiple processors that are communicatively connected to each other and capable of performing computations in a collaborative manner, such as by dividing the task into subtasks and distributing the subtasks among multiple processors (e.g., using a load balancer) to jointly perform a single task. In some embodiments, at least one processor may include multiple processors that are communicatively connected via a communication network (e.g., a local and / or remote communication network including wired and / or wireless communication links). Multiple connected processors may be configured to jointly perform computations in a distributed manner (e.g., as known in the art of distributed computing).

[0051] In some embodiments, at least one processor may include multiple processors configured to control multiple geographically associated fluid turbines (e.g., a fluid turbine cluster). In some embodiments, one or more fluid turbines in a fluid turbine cluster may be associated with one or more specific processors, such as a subset dedicated to a specific fluid turbine or a specific fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, one or more processors may be configured in a central control unit to jointly control the operation of each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, at least one processor may include one or more processors dedicated to a specific fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster, and one or more processors in a central control unit configured to control the operation of the entire fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, at least one processor may control the operation of multiple geographically associated fluid turbines to allow multiple geographically associated fluid turbines to operate together as a single fluid energy conversion system.

[0052] A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory) refers to any type of physical memory that can store information or data readable by at least one processor. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard disk drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, any other optical data storage media, any physical medium with a pattern of holes, PROMs, EPROMs, FLASH-EPROMs or any other flash memory, NVRAMs, caches, registers, any other memory chips or cassettes and networked versions thereof. The terms "memory" and "computer-readable storage medium" may refer to a variety of structures, such as multiple memories or computer-readable storage media located locally (e.g., physically close to at least one processor and connected via a local communication link) or at a remote location (e.g., accessible by at least one processor via a communication network). In addition, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized to implement a computer-implemented method. Therefore, the term "computer-readable storage medium" It should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals.

[0053] In some embodiments, the memory may include a plurality of memory storage devices configured to store information for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines (e.g., a fluid turbine cluster). In some embodiments, one or more fluid turbines in a fluid turbine cluster may be associated with one or more specific storage devices, such as a subset dedicated to a particular fluid turbine or a particular fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, one or more storage devices may be configured with a central control unit to jointly store information for controlling each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, the memory may include one or more memory devices dedicated to a particular fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster, and one or more storage devices in a central control unit configured to store information for controlling an entire fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, the memory may store information for controlling the operation of a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines to allow a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines to operate together as a single fluid energy conversion system.

[0054] Disclosed embodiments consistent with the present disclosure may relate to a network. A network may include any type of physical or wireless computer network arrangement for exchanging data. For example, a network may be the Internet, a private data network, a virtual private network using a public network, a Wi-Fi network, a LAN or WAN network, a combination of one or more of the above, and / or other suitable connections that may permit information exchange between various components of the system. In some embodiments, a network may include one or more physical links for exchanging data, such as Ethernet, coaxial cable, twisted pair cable, optical fiber, or any other physical medium suitable for exchanging data. A network may also include a public switched telephone network ("PSTN") and / or a wireless cellular network. A network may be a secure network or a non-secure network. In other embodiments, one or more components of a system may communicate directly via a dedicated communication network. Direct communication may use any suitable technology, including, for example, BLUETOOTHTM, BLUETOOTHLETM (BLE), Wi-Fi, near field communication (NFC), or other suitable communication methods that provide a medium for exchanging data and / or information between independent entities.

[0055] Direct current (DC) (e.g., a DC power signal) may refer to a unidirectional flow of electric charge. DC power may be used to operate a processor or controller. Examples of DC power may include power generated by an electrochemical cell (e.g., a battery) or power stored in a capacitor. Electronic devices such as processors, controllers, and storage devices may operate using DC power.

[0056] Alternating current (AC) (e.g., an AC power signal) may refer to a bidirectional flow of electric charge, the direction of which changes periodically. AC current may vary between positive and negative poles due to the positive or negative movement of electrons, producing a sinusoidal AC wave. An alternating current generator may generate AC power by placing a conductive coil (e.g., a copper winding) in a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic polarity may cause the current in the conductive coil to change direction, producing an electrical waveform signal. AC power may be transmitted farther than DC power without loss of power, which is advantageous for delivering power from a power generation system to power consumers. A generator may generate AC power, and a power grid may supply AC power to consumers.

[0057] A three-phase voltage signal may refer to a voltage signal distributed into three voltage signals, each of which is 120 degrees offset from the phase of the other voltage signals, so that the peaks and valleys of the three voltage signals are not aligned. The three voltage signals may be offset from each other by one-third of each cycle, so that the waveform generated by each phase may be offset from the waveforms generated by the other two phases by one-third of the cycle. The three-phase voltage signal enables efficient high-voltage step-up and step-down to achieve power transmission.

[0058] A load (e.g., an electrical load) can refer to an impedance or resistance. Such a load can be applied to a generator (e.g., The invention relates to a fluid turbine connected to the generator, such as a generator, to slow down the rotation of the generator and / or the fluid turbine connected to the generator. Generating a load may involve absorbing at least a portion of the electrical energy generated by the energy generator to the energy receiver. Consuming more electrical energy (such as increasing the load) may increase the impedance, causing the rotation speed of the fluid turbine to slow down. Consuming less electrical energy (such as reducing the load) may reduce the impedance, thereby increasing the rotation speed of the fluid turbine.

[0059] A rectifier may refer to a device or circuit that converts alternating current (AC) to a direct current (DC) signal (e.g., an AC-to-DC converter). A rectifier may convert AC power (e.g., generated by a generator) to DC power (e.g., to power at least one processor). In some embodiments, each geographically associated fluid turbine may be associated with a dedicated rectifier. The dedicated rectifier for each fluid turbine may be housed in a separate housing (e.g., for each fluid turbine), or in a common housing for multiple fluid turbines.

[0060] An inverter (e.g., a power inverter) may refer to a device or circuit (e.g., a DC-to-AC converter) that converts a direct current (DC) signal into an AC signal. Depending on the circuit design of the inverter, the inverter may convert a DC signal into a square wave, a sine wave, a modified sine wave, a pulsed sine wave, a pulse width modulated wave (PWM). The inverter may convert DC power into AC power for transmission to a power grid. In some embodiments, multiple geographically associated fluid turbines may be associated with a single inverter to output the jointly generated AC power to a power grid.

[0061] For example, each AC power signal output by each geographically associated fluid turbine can be converted to a DC power signal via each dedicated rectifier. Circuitry (e.g., including at least one processor) can process the DC power signals to initiate combining each DC power signal to form a total DC power signal, such that converting the total DC power signal via an inverter can produce an AC power signal that is compatible for transmission to a power grid.

[0062] Capacitors may refer to an electronic component that stores electrostatic energy in an electric field by storing charge on two opposing surfaces (e.g., conductive plates) separated by an insulator (e.g., dielectric). Applying a potential difference (e.g., voltage) on the plates of a capacitor may cause an electric field to be formed in a dielectric medium, thereby causing a net positive charge to accumulate on one plate and a net negative charge to accumulate on the opposite plate, thereby allowing electrical energy to be stored as a potential difference between the two plates. The plates of a capacitor may be connected to other circuit elements (e.g., via the contacts of a capacitor), thereby allowing one or more capacitors to be integrated into an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, a capacitor may serve as a source of electrical energy (e.g., similar to a battery). However, a capacitor may be different from a battery because a capacitor may lack a chemical reaction to receive, store, and generate electrical energy. Capacitors may be manufactured on a microelectronic scale to be integrated with other microelectronic components, such as using a photolithography process.

[0063] A battery may refer to an electrical device configured to convert chemical energy into electrical energy or vice versa. A battery may include one or more cells, each of which contains electrodes and an electrolyte. When the electrodes are connected to an external circuit, a chemical reaction may occur in the electrolyte, resulting in a flow of electrons, thereby generating an electric current. The amount of electrical energy that can be stored in a battery may be determined by its capacity (e.g., in ampere-hours, Ah, or milliampere-hours, mAh). Batteries can be rechargeable or non-rechargeable.

[0064] A battery pack may include multiple cells connected together in a series or parallel configuration to provide greater capacity and / or higher voltage. A battery pack may be used to store electrical energy generated by a renewable energy source, such as multiple fluid turbines, for subsequent use by a consumer. In some embodiments, a battery pack may include multiple cells connected in series to increase voltage while maintaining a steady capacity. In some embodiments, a battery pack may include multiple cells connected in parallel to increase capacity while maintaining a steady voltage. In some embodiments, a battery pack may include multiple cells connected in series and in parallel to increase voltage and capacity. A charge controller may be used to ensure that the cells in a battery pack have similar states of charge and similar characteristics, for example, Prevent overcharging, overdischarging and / or uneven aging of one or more batteries included therein.

[0065] The DC-DC converter may include an electric power converter, for example, an electronic circuit and / or device configured to convert a DC voltage signal from a first DC voltage level to a second voltage level. The DC-DC converter may reduce (e.g., step-down) a DC voltage signal or increase (e.g., step-up) a DC voltage signal. For example, a DC-DC converter may temporarily store electrical energy and release electrical energy at different voltages. In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter may be designed to (e.g., substantially) maximize the energy collected from a fluid turbine and / or a photovoltaic cell (e.g., as a power optimizer). The DC-DC converter may include an electronic voltage converter (e.g., using one or more capacitors, inductors, and / or transformers), a magnetic voltage converter (e.g., using an inductor and / or transformer to periodically release energy stored in a magnetic field therein), a bidirectional DC-DC converter, and / or a capacitive voltage converter.

[0066] A charge controller may refer to a device configured to help ensure that a fluid turbine complies with one or more regulations and / or or regulated electronic devices. For example, the charge controller can prevent the fluid turbine from overcharging the battery pack while limiting the rotational speed of the fluid turbine (e.g., when the battery pack is full and / or under high fluid velocity conditions), and can allow aggregation of power from multiple fluid turbines without losses due to interference. The charge controller can include an AC-to-DC converter (e.g., a rectifier), one or more voltage sensor switches, a voltage regulator (e.g., for regulating a DC voltage used to supply DC power to the battery pack), and / or or unloading a load (e.g., to divert excess power to prevent overcharging). In some embodiments, the charge controller may include a user interface and / or features for preventing excessive voltage, current, and / or temperature. For example, the user interface may be associated with one or more light emitting diodes or LEDs (e.g., to emit a warning light), a speaker (e.g., to emit a warning sound), an electronic screen, and / or any other interface that may allow a user to interact with the charge controller.

[0067] The charge controller may be connected to the AC output of the generator connected to the fluid turbine. The AC-to-DC converter of the charge controller may convert the AC output to a DC signal (e.g., for aggregation with other DC signals generated by other charge controllers associated with other fluid turbines without causing lossy interference). When the DC voltage level is below an upper limit of the battery pack, at least one voltage sensor switch of the charge controller may transmit a DC signal to charge the battery pack, and when the DC voltage level exceeds the upper limit, the DC signal (e.g., excess DC power) may be transferred to the unloading load. The voltage regulator may regulate the voltage transmitted to the battery pack. DC voltage to comply with one or more specifications, regulations, and / or recommendations associated with the battery pack.

[0068] The total power signal may refer to a power signal resulting from combining multiple power signals from different power sources (e.g., energy generators) into a single combined power signal. The total power signal may require synchronizing the energy generators (e.g., synchronizing frequencies, phase angles, and / or adjusting voltage levels to achieve matching voltage levels), and / or Or temporarily store the electrical energy of one or more power signals (e.g., in one or more capacitors and / or batteries). Once the power signals from each energy generator are synchronized and matched, the power signals can be combined using an electrical device such as a power combiner or power distribution board. The combined (e.g., aggregated) signal can be transmitted to the grid or used to power a load.

[0069] An electrical grid (e.g., an electric power grid) may include an interconnected network that delivers power (e.g., AC power) from a single or multiple generator energy generators to a single or multiple consumers. The grid may be designed to supply power at a substantially constant voltage level under varying power demands (e.g., by power receivers) and be powered (e.g., by energy generators). The grid may use one or more tap switches or transformers to regulate the voltage and keep the voltage within grid specifications. The properties of the power supplied to the grid by one or more energy generators (e.g., frequency, phase, power level) may need to comply with regulations or standards.

[0070] A signal may refer to coded information transmitted over a physical medium. Examples of signals may include signals in the electromagnetic radiation spectrum (e.g., AM or FM radio, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radar, visible light, LiDAR, IR, Zigbee, Z-wave, and / or GPS signals), acoustic or ultrasonic signals, electrical signals (e.g., voltage, current, or charge signals), electronic signals (e.g., digital data), tactile signals (e.g., touch), and / or any other type of coded information transmitted between two entities via a physical medium.

[0071] A detector may refer to a device that outputs an electronic signal in response to detecting, sensing, or measuring a physical phenomenon. The detector may convert the measurement of the physical phenomenon to a medium (e.g., an electronic medium) for reception by at least one processor. The detector may include one or more of a mechanical sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a temperature sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, a Hall sensor, a thermocouple sensor, a photoelectric sensor, a digital position sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a photoelectric encoder, a pressure sensor, a fluid (e.g., liquid) level sensor, a flow sensor, and / or any other type of sensor that may be used to detect position, linear displacement, pressure, temperature, flow, vibration, rotational speed, current, voltage, power, and / or any other parameter associated with, for example, the generation of electrical energy.

[0072] Tracking can include monitoring, observing and / or recording, for example, observing the measured state of something over a period of time. In some cases, tracking can also include adjusting, adapting and / or updating one or more first parameters to maintain a corresponding relationship between the one or more first parameters and a second parameter that can change over time (such as in a feedback loop).

[0073] Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) refers to one or more techniques for extracting maximum power from a fluid energy conversion system (e.g., a fluid turbine mechanically connected to an energy generator) using the maximum power available in the fluid flow. Examples of MPPT techniques include perturbation and observation (hill climbing), incremental conductance, fractional short-circuit current, fractional open-circuit voltage, fuzzy control, neural networks, extremum search control, and model predictive control. At a given fluid flow rate, a fluid turbine can output different levels of power, depending on the blades and / or Or the rotational speed of the rotor. Such a rotational speed may correspond to the maximum power output of the fluid turbine operating at a specific fluid flow rate. When operating at a specific fluid flow rate, maintaining the rotational speed of the fluid turbine corresponding to the peak power output can improve the efficiency of the fluid turbine system. However, in the case of changes in fluid flow, the rotational speed of the fluid turbine will also change accordingly. Therefore, under changing fluid flow conditions, the rotational speed of the fluid turbine can be dynamically adjusted by the controller to achieve a rotational speed corresponding to the maximum power output for a given fluid flow rate at any given point in time, thereby improving the efficiency of energy generation. This technology may require the controller to track the peak power output of the fluid turbine under changing fluid flow conditions and continuously adjust the rotational speed to correspond to the peak power output at any specific point in time (e.g., using an MPPT protocol). Inaccurate tracking of the peak power output of the fluid turbine may cause the controller to adjust the fluid turbine to rotate at a suboptimal rotational speed.

[0074] A controller (e.g., a charge controller) can allow maximum energy extraction by adjusting the shaft speed (e.g., corresponding to the rotational speed) of the fluid turbine in response to a changing fluid velocity. The controller can adjust the shaft rotational speed by sending an electrical signal to the copper windings of the generator rotor coupled thereto. The electrical signal may introduce impedance (e.g., by shunting or shorting the copper windings), causing the rotor speed to slow down and the fluid turbine coupled thereto to decelerate accordingly to produce maximum power under changing fluid conditions. The charge controller can adjust the shaft rotational speed by increasing or decreasing the load of the energy generator connected thereto. Some MPPT algorithms may require one or more inputs, such as the fluid velocity, the rotational speed of the fluid turbine (e.g., the rotor speed), the maximum power curve of the fluid turbine, or the mechanical power equation of the fluid turbine (e.g., obtained through experiments or simulations).

[0075] The MPPT algorithms for fluid turbines can be based on direct and / or indirect power measurements, fluid velocity measurements, and / or hybrid and / or intelligent algorithms (e.g., based on artificial intelligence techniques, such as neural networks and fuzzy logic controllers) to track the maximum power point of a particular fluid turbine. Some MPPT algorithms for fluid turbines can employ one or more fluid velocity sensors (e.g., anemometers, ultrasonic fluid sensors), such as tip speed ratio (TSR) algorithms or power signal feedback (PSF) algorithms, which are described in more detail below. Some MPPT algorithms for fluid turbines can avoid the use of fluid velocity sensors, such as perturbation and observation (P&O) algorithms, optimal relationship based (ORB) algorithms, or incremental conductance (INC) algorithms. Some MPPT techniques can combine one or more MPPT algorithms (e.g., hybrid techniques).

[0076] For example, a tip speed ratio (TSR) based MPPT algorithm may use the ratio between the fluid velocity and the rotational speed of the tips of the fluid turbine blades to adjust the rotational speed of the energy generator coupled thereto to maintain the TSR of the fluid turbine at an optimal value to extract maximum power. In addition to the fluid velocity and the speed at which the turbine rotates, the TSR algorithm may also require the optimal TSR of the fluid turbine as an input.

[0077] As another example, a power signal feedback (PSF) algorithm can be used to control the maximum power extracted by a fluid turbine from a fluid flow. A reference power level can be generated using a recorded maximum power curve or a mechanical power equation for the fluid turbine. The curve can be tracked to change the fluid velocity to control the fluid turbine to output maximum power.

[0078] As an additional example, a disturbance and observation (e.g., hill climbing search or HCS) control algorithm can continuously track the power output of a fluid turbine to find a peak power output. Applying a disturbance and observation algorithm can involve reading the power output of the fluid turbine under certain conditions, increasing the load to slow the rotational speed of the fluid turbine, and reading the power output of the fluid turbine when rotating at the slower rotational speed at the same wind speed to determine whether the power output at the slower rotational speed is greater or less than the power output before the load was increased. The HCS tracking algorithm can calculate the optimal signal required to operate the fluid turbine to produce the peak power output based on the location of the operating point and the relationship between the power and speed changes.

[0079] An MPPT protocol (e.g., for a single fluid turbine) may involve transmitting a signal for adjusting the rotational speed of the single fluid turbine to adjust the rotational speed of the single fluid turbine by adjusting the load, adjusting the brakes (e.g., mechanical and / or electronic brakes), and / or using any other method. In some embodiments, an MPPT protocol for a single fluid turbine may involve increasing the load of an energy generator connected thereto and / or sending a signal to the energy generator to output maximum (e.g., or near maximum) energy at a certain point in time.

[0080] An MPPT protocol (e.g., for a cluster of fluid turbines) may involve adjusting the rotational speed of at least some of the fluid turbines in a geographically associated cluster of fluid turbines so that the cluster of fluid turbines outputs a maximum (e.g., or near maximum) total power output at a certain point in time and / or under certain fluid conditions. In some embodiments, implementing an MPPT protocol for a cluster of fluid turbines may include transmitting at least some signals associated with applying an MPPT protocol (e.g., for a single fluid turbine) to at least some of the individual fluid turbines in the cluster of fluid turbines, and transmitting at least some signals not associated with applying an MPPT protocol (e.g., for a single fluid turbine) to any individual fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines. In some cases, an MPPT protocol for a fluid turbine may override one or more signals associated with an MPPT protocol for an individual fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines. In some embodiments, a charge controller may include at least one processor to implement an MPPT protocol on a fluid turbine connected thereto.

[0081] A brake may refer to a device configured to adjust (e.g., slow down) the rotational speed of a fluid turbine and / or an energy generator connected thereto. The brake may include a mechanical brake and / or an electronic brake. The mechanical brake may include one or more brake pads, brake discs, and / or brake drums, for example activated via a switch. In some embodiments, the mechanical brake may include a lock, such as a pin configured to engage and hold the brake. The electronic brake may include a switch configured to introduce and / or remove a load (e.g., a shed load) applied to the fluid turbine.

[0082] Receiving may include retrieving, acquiring or otherwise obtaining, for example, data. Receiving may include reading data from a memory and / or receiving data from a computing device via a (e.g., wired and / or wireless) communication channel. At least one processor may receive data via a synchronous and / or asynchronous communication protocol, for example by polling a memory buffer for data and / or by receiving data as an interrupt event.

[0083] A threshold may include a benchmark, a limit (such as a maximum or minimum value), a starting point, and / or an end point of a measurable quantity. In some embodiments, a threshold may also include a tolerance for values ​​above and / or below the threshold.

[0084] Determining may include making measurements, comparisons, estimates, and / or calculations to reach a conclusive result.

[0085] Storing may include accumulating and / or collecting reserves, for example, for future use.

[0086] Machine learning can refer to a branch of artificial intelligence that uses algorithms to iteratively explore large amounts of data to converge on a solution. Machine learning can include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Supervised learning can use annotated (e.g., labeled) datasets, while unsupervised learning can use unclassified (e.g., unannotated) datasets. Reinforcement learning can occur in the absence of data and can use trial and error and environmental feedback to reach conclusions.

[0087] In some embodiments, training examples can be used to train machine learning algorithms (also referred to as machine learning models). Some non-limiting examples of such machine learning algorithms may include classification algorithms, data regression algorithms, mathematical embedding algorithms, natural language processing algorithms, support vector machines, random forests, nearest neighbor algorithms, deep learning algorithms, artificial neural network algorithms, convolutional neural network algorithms, recursive neural network algorithms, linear machine learning models, nonlinear machine learning models, integrated algorithms, etc. For example, a trained machine learning algorithm may include an inference model, such as a prediction model, a classification model, a regression model, a clustering model, a segmentation model, an artificial neural network (such as a deep neural network, a convolutional neural network, a recursive neural network, etc.), a random forest, a support vector machine, etc. In some examples, a training example may include an example input and an expected output corresponding to the example input. In addition, in some examples, a trained machine learning algorithm using a training example can generate a trained machine learning algorithm, and the trained computer learning algorithm can be used to estimate the output of an input not included in the training example. In some examples, engineers, scientists, processes, and machines that train machine learning algorithms may further use verification examples and / or test examples. For example, the verification example and / or the test example may include an example input and an expected output corresponding to the example input, and a trained machine learning algorithm and / or an intermediate trained machine learning algorithm may be used to estimate the output of the example input of the verification example and / or the test example, and the estimated output may be compared with the corresponding expected output, and the trained machine learning algorithm and / or the intermediate trained machine learning algorithm may be compared based on the result of the comparison. In some examples, the machine learning algorithm may have parameters and hyperparameters, where the hyperparameters are set manually by a person or automatically by a process external to the machine learning algorithm (such as a hyperparameter search algorithm), and the parameters of the machine learning algorithm are set by the machine learning algorithm based on the training examples. In some embodiments, the hyperparameters are set based on the training examples and the validation examples, and the parameters are set based on the training examples and the selected hyperparameters.

[0088] In some examples, a trained machine learning algorithm can be used as an inference model, when provided with input. The model generates an inferred output. For example, the trained machine learning algorithm may include a classification algorithm, the input may include samples, and the inferred output may include a classification of the sample (such as an inferred label, an inferred tag, etc.). In another example, the trained machine learning algorithm may include a regression model, the input may include samples, and the inferred output may include an inferred value of the sample. In another example, the trained machine learning algorithm may include a clustering model, the input may include samples, and the inferred output may include assigning the sample to at least one cluster. In some examples, the trained machine learning algorithm may include one or more formulas and / or one or more functions and / or one or more rules and / or one or more programs, the input may be used as an input to a formula and / or function and / or rule and / or program, and the inferred output may be based on the output of the formula and / or function and / or rule and / or program (such as selecting one of the outputs of the formula and / or function and / or rule and / or program, using a statistical measurement of the output of the formula and / or function and / or rule and / or program, etc.).

[0089] In some embodiments, the artificial neural network can be configured to analyze inputs and generate corresponding outputs. Some non-limiting examples of such artificial neural networks can include shallow artificial neural networks, deep artificial neural networks, feedback artificial neural networks, feedforward artificial neural networks, autoencoder artificial neural networks, probabilistic artificial neural networks, time-delay artificial neural networks, convolutional artificial neural networks, recurrent artificial neural networks, long / short-term memory artificial neural networks, etc. In some examples, the artificial neural network can be manually configured. For example, the structure of the artificial neural network can be manually selected, the type of artificial neurons of the artificial neural network can be manually selected, the parameters of the artificial neural network (such as the parameters of the artificial neurons of the artificial neural network) can be manually selected, etc. In some examples, the artificial neural network can be configured using a machine learning algorithm. For example, a user can select hyperparameters for an artificial neural network and / or a machine learning algorithm, and the machine learning algorithm can use hyperparameters and training examples to determine the parameters of the artificial neural network, such as using back propagation, using gradient descent, using stochastic gradient descent, using mini-batch gradient descent, etc. In some examples, an artificial neural network can be created from two or more other artificial neural networks by combining two or more other artificial neural networks into a single artificial neural network.

[0090] Smoothing may include leveling and / or flattening (to some extent), for example by offsetting peaks and valleys. Smoothing the power delivered to the grid may include using stored power to augment below average power supplied to the grid and / or diverting power in excess of grid requirements to reduce the variation in power delivered to the grid over time.

[0091] Intermittently can include periodically, occasionally, and / or in a repeating manner for discrete periods of time.

[0092] Adjustment may include monitoring, controlling, adjusting, supervising, and / or maintaining. Adjustment may include receiving measurements associated with one or more operating parameters, determining a signal configured to adjust the one or more operating parameters based on the one or more measurements, and / or transmitting a signal for adjusting the one or more operating parameters (e.g., as feedback in an iterative process to converge the one or more operating parameters to a baseline or threshold).

[0093] refer to Figure 1 , which shows a variety of exemplary fluid turbines 100 to 112. Fluid turbine 100 may be an exemplary vertical wind turbine, fluid turbine 102 may be an exemplary horizontal wind turbine, fluid turbine 104 may be an exemplary water, gas or steam turbine, fluid turbine 106 may be an exemplary Savonius (e.g., vertical) wind turbine, fluid turbine 108 may be an exemplary Darrieus rotor (e.g., vertical) wind turbine, fluid turbine 110 may be an exemplary H-lift vertical wind turbine, and fluid turbine 112 may be an exemplary helical (e.g., vertical) wind turbine. It is noted that the exemplary fluid turbines 100 to 112 are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to any particular type or embodiment of fluid turbines, as the inventive principles described herein may be applied to any turbine or cluster of turbines, regardless of their structure or arrangement. Furthermore, while some non-limiting examples may relate to any of the fluid turbines 100 - 112 , these examples are provided for conceptual purposes only and do not limit the present disclosure to any particular implementation or type of fluid turbine.

[0094] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exemplary fluid energy conversion system including a fluid turbine 100 coupled to an energy generator 204 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The fluid turbine 100 may include a plurality of blades 206 and 208 configured to rotate in response to a fluid flow 210. The energy generator 204 may include a rotor 212 and a stator 214 that together house one or more permanent magnets and copper windings (e.g., the rotor may include magnets and the stator may include copper windings, or vice versa). The energy generator 204 may be configured to induce an alternating current (AC) when the rotor 212 rotates relative to the stator 214 (e.g., a fluctuating magnetic field around the copper windings is generated by the rotational motion). The kinetic energy contained in the fluid flow 210 may exert a force on the fluid turbine 100, causing the blades 206 and 208 to rotate. The rotational motion of the blades 206 and 208 may cause the rotor 212 of the energy generator 204 to rotate relative to the stator 214, generating an AC current, thereby converting the kinetic energy of the fluid flow 210 into electrical energy. Although fluid turbine 100 is shown as a vertical axis wind turbine and fluid flow 210 is shown as air flow, this example is not intended to be limiting, and fluid turbine 100 may be a horizontal axis wind turbine, a water turbine, a gas turbine, or a steam turbine. Similarly, fluid flow 210 may be water, gas, or steam, respectively.

[0095] Figure 2B An exemplary top view of a fluid energy conversion system including an outer stator 220 and an inner rotor 222 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The inner rotor 222 can be mechanically coupled to a rotating shaft of a fluid turbine. The inner rotor 222 can include one or more permanent magnets, and the outer stator 220 can include copper windings, such that when the inner rotor 222 rotates due to the rotation of the shaft of the fluid turbine to which it is connected, the copper windings of the outer stator 220 can be exposed to a fluctuating magnetic field, thereby inducing an AC signal.

[0096] Figure 2C An exemplary top view of a fluid energy conversion system including an outer rotor 224 and an inner stator 226 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The outer rotor 224 can be mechanically coupled to a rotating shaft of a fluid turbine. The outer rotor 224 can include one or more permanent magnets, and the inner stator 226 can include copper windings, such that when the outer rotor 224 rotates due to the rotation of the shaft of the fluid turbine to which it is connected, the copper windings of the inner stator 226 can be exposed to a fluctuating magnetic field, thereby inducing an AC signal.

[0097] Figure 3A diagram of a cluster 300 of exemplary geographically associated fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The geographically associated fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C may be connected to at least one processor 308 via circuitry 310 and one or more communication links 312. The communication links 312 may include different types of wired communication links (e.g., wire, cable, optical fiber) and wireless communication links (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, AM, FM, PM radio transceivers, satellite or GPS transceivers, IR transceivers, ultrasonic transceivers, and / or any other type of wireless communication link). The communication links may include high power communication links, such as for receiving power generated by the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C and / or for sending bearer signals to the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, as well as low power communication links, such as for sending and receiving data between multiple processors and / or sensors.

[0098] At least one processor 308 may be configured to control each of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, respectively, or coordinate operations of each of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C. For example, at least one processor 308 may coordinate operations such as braking, decelerating, stopping, locking, unlocking, and / or or start one or more of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C. As another example, the at least one processor 308 may control the rotational direction and / or speed of any of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, implement an MPPT algorithm for one or more of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, control the relative rotational phase between any of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, and / or execute any other program to coordinate the operation of one or more of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C. The at least one processor 308 may include one or more individual processors, each dedicated to controlling one of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C, and / or one or more processors dedicated to controlling the cluster 300 consisting of the fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C operating as a single overall energy conversion system. Although cluster 300 is shown with three fluid turbines, this is for illustration purposes only, and cluster 300 may include two fluid turbines, or more than three fluid turbines. Figure 3 The fluid turbines 100A, 100B, and 100C are shown as vertical wind turbines (eg, corresponding to Figure 1The cluster 300 may include different types of fluid turbines, such as one or more horizontal wind turbines, and one or more water, steam and / or gas turbines, in addition to the fluid turbine 100. It is worth repeating that although Figure 3 The discussion is related to the example turbine configuration shown, but Figure 3 The principles described in apply to all turbines, regardless of turbine construction.

[0099] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exemplary fluid energy conversion system 400 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, which is configured to generate power from a fluid flow and output the generated power to an energy receiver 402. The fluid energy conversion system 400 may include a plurality (e.g., a cluster) 401 of fluid turbines 404 (e.g., fluid turbines 404A and 404B) that are geographically associated. The fluid turbines 404A and 404B may be connected to an energy generator 406 (e.g., generators 406A and 406B), respectively, for converting energy in a fluid flow (e.g., the fluid flow 210 shown in FIG. 2) into electrical power (e.g., a total electrical power output 440) for at least one energy receiver 402 (e.g., a load). The total electrical power output 440 may include a DC power output, such as for powering a battery pack, or an AC power output, such as for delivery to a power grid. In some embodiments, a portion of the total power output 440 may be delivered as a DC signal to charge one or more batteries, and a portion of the total power output 440 may be delivered as an AC signal to a power grid. In some embodiments, a portion of total power output 440 may be delivered as DC power to power circuits used to control one or more components of fluid energy conversion system 400, such as control circuits associated with fluid turbine 404 and / or energy generator 406. Fluid turbines 404A and 404B may be any fluid turbine, including but not limited to Figure 1Various exemplary turbines shown in . Examples of energy receivers may include a power grid, one or more batteries, and / or any other electrical power receiver. Energy generators 406A and 406B may convert mechanical rotational energy received from fluid turbines 404A and 404B into multiple AC power outputs 408 (e.g., AC power outputs 408A and 408B). Fluid turbines 404A and 404B and energy generators 406A and 406B may each be associated with a charge controller 410 (e.g., charge controllers 410A and 410B), respectively. AC power outputs 408A and 408B may be converted to DC signals 412 (e.g., DC signals 412A and 412B), respectively, via charge controllers 410 (e.g., charge controllers 410A and 410B). Charge controller 410 may include electronic circuits, such as one or more of a rectifier (e.g., an AC-to-DC converter), a voltage sensor switch, a load shedding, a braking circuit, a capacitor, and / or a booster. The DC signals 412A and 412B may be transmitted to the interconnect circuit 414 via a plurality of links 416 (eg, links 416A and 416B). The links 416A and 416B may include one or more coaxial cables, optical fibers, and / or electrical wires configured to transmit power signals.

[0100] The charging controllers 410A and 410B may transmit one or more electrical signals to the interconnect circuit 414 via the communication link 420 (e.g., communication links 420A and 420B). The communication links 420A and 420B may include one or more wired and / or wireless communication channels configured to send and receive electronic signals between at least one processor 428 and the charging controllers 410A and 410B.

[0101] Each of the fluid turbines 404A and 404B and the energy generators 406A and 406B may be associated with at least one sensor 418 (e.g., at least one sensor 418A and 418B), which will be described in more detail below. The sensor 418 may be connected to the fluid turbine 404 and / or the energy generator 406, for example, to sense one or more operating parameters associated with the fluid turbine 404 and / or the energy generator 406 connected thereto. The sensor 418 may be connected to the charge controller 410. For example, at least one sensor 418A may be connected to the fluid turbine 404A and / or the energy generator 406A and the charge controller 410A, and at least one sensor 418B may be connected to the fluid turbine 404B and / or the energy generator 406B and the charge controller 410B.

[0102] The interconnection circuit 414 may include at least one sensor 438, at least one booster (e.g., voltage booster) 422, at least one capacitor 424, at least one DC-to-DC converter 426, at least one processor 428, at least one memory 430, at least one braking circuit 432, and / or at least one inverter 434, which are interconnected via a communication link 436. In some embodiments, the inverter 434 may be a single inverter configured to convert the total DC power generated by multiple geographically associated fluid turbines 404 into an AC signal compatible with the grid (e.g., 110V, 120V, 220V, 240V, or any other voltage level compatible with the regional grid). A non-limiting example of an inverter that may be employed is the IQ7 Plus produced by Enphase Energy, Inc. of Fremont, California.

[0103] Figure 5 An exemplary schematic diagram of a charge controller 410 connected to at least one sensor 418 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The at least one sensor 418 may include one or more rotation sensors 502, fluid velocity sensors 504, vibration sensors 506, temperature sensors 508, output power sensors 510, and / or image sensors 524. The one or more rotation sensors 502 may be associated with a rotating component of the fluid turbine 404 and / or the energy generator 406, such as one or more blades and / or shafts of the fluid turbine 404, and / or a rotor of the energy generator 406. The fluid velocity sensor 504 may be configured to sense the velocity of a fluid flow affecting the fluid turbine 404. Examples of the fluid velocity sensor 504 may include one or more of an anemometer, a water flow sensor, a gas flow meter, and / or a steam flow meter for sensing. The vibration sensor 506 may include, for example, one or more accelerometers, and piezoelectric, piezoresistive, and / or capacitive MEMS for sensing vibrations of one or more components of the fluid turbine 404 and / or the energy generator 406. The temperature sensor 508 may include, for example, a thermometer, a thermostat, a thermocouple, a thermopile, an infrared thermometer, a bimetallic thermometer, or any other type of temperature measuring device. The output power sensor 510 may include, for example, a voltmeter (e.g., a voltage sensor) and / or an ammeter (e.g., a current sensor) for measuring the power generated by the energy generator 406. The one or more image sensors 524 may include one or more cameras (e.g., a charge coupled device or CCD camera, and / or or a CMOS camera and / or an IR camera for detecting visible light).

[0104] The charge controller 410 may include one or more of at least one processor 512, a memory 514, an input / output (I / O) device 516 (e.g., for communicating with at least one processor 428 via a communication link 420), an electronic brake control 518, a mechanical brake control 520, a yaw control 526, a pitch control 528, and / or a rectifier 530. The at least one processor 512, the memory 514, the I / O 516, the electronic brake control 518, the mechanical brake control 520, the yaw control 526, the pitch control 528, and the rectifier 530 may be interconnected via a bus system 522. In some embodiments, a clock (e.g., a clock of at least one processor) may be used as a sensor, for example, to schedule maintenance or safety procedures, and / or synchronize the operation of the fluid turbine 404. In some embodiments, the clock may be used in conjunction with scheduling software to issue an alarm (e.g., a signal) to brake, decelerate, stop, lock, and / or unlock the fluid turbine via at least one processor.

[0105] The electronic brake control 518 may include an inverter and a booster, for example, to implement an electronic braking mechanism. For example, electronic braking of the fluid turbine 404 may be implemented by applying a load (e.g., impedance) to the energy generator 406. In some embodiments, electronic braking may be implemented using an AC signal. At least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 428 and / or processor 512) may determine an AC signal configured to apply a specific load to achieve a desired braking level, for example, by interfering with another AC signal. In some embodiments, electronic braking may be implemented using a DC signal, for example, causing a switch to transfer the power output of the energy generator to a load unloading. At least one processor may transmit a DC signal to the electronic brake control 518 of the charge controller 410. The electronic brake control 518 may use the DC signal to generate an AC signal, and the booster of the electronic brake control 518 may amplify the AC signal to a level corresponding to an AC signal suitable for applying a specific load on the energy generator 406. The amplified AC signal may be transmitted to the rotor of the energy generator 406 to apply a load, thereby controlling (e.g., by decelerating and / or stopping) the fluid turbine 404. For example, the AC signal may be used to implement an MPPT protocol, activate electronic brakes, adjust the phase of fluid turbines 404 (e.g., by slowing one fluid turbine relative to another), adjust rotational speed, adjust rotational direction, and / or perform any other control operation on fluid turbines 404.

[0106] Mechanical brake control 520 may include one or more electronic switches to allow at least one processor (eg, at least one processor 428 and / or processor 512) to control the flow of fluid from turbine 404 and / or or one or more mechanical brakes (e.g., brake pads, brake discs, and / or brake drums) configured together with one or more rotating components of the energy generator 406.

[0107] In some embodiments, electronic braking of the fluid turbine 404 may be accomplished by the charge controller 410 , for example, by diverting power generated by the energy generator 406 to a shed load.

[0108] Figure 6 A top view of an exemplary fluid turbine 600 configured with at least one mechanical brake consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The fluid turbine 600 may include blades 602 and 604 connected to a rotatable shaft 606, at least one mechanical brake 608, an energy generator 610, at least one lock 612, and a charge controller 614 (e.g., corresponding to the charge controller 410). The energy generator 610 may be connected to the rotating shaft 606 for converting the rotational mechanical energy of the blades 602 and 604 into electrical power. The charge controller 614 may be connected to one or more of the following components: the energy generator 610, the rotating shaft 606, the blades 602 and 604, the at least one mechanical brake 608, and the at least one lock 612. The at least one mechanical brake 608 and / or the at least one lock 612 may act on any rotatable component associated with the fluid turbine 600, such as the rotatable shaft 606, the rotor of the energy generator 610, and / or the blades 602 and 604 (e.g., although Figure 6 At least one mechanical brake 608 and a lock 612 are shown acting on the shaft 606, but this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the present disclosure to any particular implementation). At least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 512 and / or processor 428) can control one or more switches by sending signals to the mechanical brake control 520, and the switches are configured to control the degree of engagement and / or disengagement of the at least one mechanical brake 608 and the at least one lock 612.

[0109] The charge controller 614 may receive signals from one or more sensors (e.g., at least one sensor 418) associated with the fluid turbine 600 (e.g., including the rotatable shaft 606, blades 602 and 604, at least one mechanical brake 608, and / or at least one lock 612) and / or the energy generator 610. The one or more signals may be received by at least one processor to determine operating parameters associated with the fluid turbine 600. For example, the at least one processor may use the signal to communicate with the charge controller 614 to engage or disengage electronic braking and / or communicate with at least one mechanical brake 608 to engage or disengage mechanical braking. Although the braking system is described above with reference to the fluid turbine 600, this is for illustrative purposes only. The braking system principles described herein are intended to be applicable to all fluid turbines, including but not limited to Figure 1 The turbine shown.

[0110] By way of non-limiting example, Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 700 for controlling a plurality 401 of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 is shown consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 4 and Figure 5 to understand the exemplary circuit 700. The fluid turbine 404 (including in conjunction with Figure 7-11 The described) may be any fluid turbine, including but not limited to Figure 1 4. The fluid turbines 404 may be geographically associated with the cluster 401. Each fluid turbine 404 may be connected to an energy generator 406 for converting energy in the fluid flow into an AC power output. Each AC power output 408 may be connected to a charge controller 410. Each charge controller 410 may include at least a rectifier 530, a brake circuit 712 (e.g., including a brake detection circuit), and a booster 714. The rectifier 530 may convert the AC power output 408 into a DC signal, and The DC signal can be transmitted to the braking circuit 712 and the booster 714. The braking circuit 712 can be configured to perform electronic braking on the fluid turbine 404 (e.g., based on information received from one or more of the at least one sensor 418). In some embodiments, each charge controller 410 can be configured to implement an MPPT protocol on the energy generator 406 connected thereto. Each charge controller 410 can be connected (e.g., in parallel) to an inverter 434, which can be connected to a power grid 718 (e.g., corresponding to the energy receiver 402). The charge controller 410 can transmit an AC power signal to the inverter 434, and the inverter 434 can convert the total AC power signal into a total AC power output 722. The inverter 434 can communicate with at least one processor (e.g., Figure 4 In some embodiments, the inverter 434 The inverter 434 (e.g., via at least one processor configured therewith) may be configured to implement an MPPT protocol on the fluid turbine 404, for example, by manipulating a load configured with the grid 718. For example, increasing the load may cause the rotation of the fluid turbine 404 to slow down, while decreasing the load may cause the rotation speed of the fluid turbine 404 to increase. Thus, in some embodiments, a single inverter 434 may be configured to implement an MPPT protocol on multiple fluid turbines 404 via multiple charge controllers 410. In some embodiments, the inverter 434 and the grid 718 may be replaced by a battery pack 720.

[0111] By way of another non-limiting example, Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 800 for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The circuit 800 may be substantially similar to the circuit 700 (eg, in combination with Figure 4 and 5 ), with a notable difference that a common (e.g., shared) charge controller 802 includes multiple rectifiers 530 for each energy generator 406. Each energy generator 406 can be connected to the common charge controller 802 via multiple wires (e.g., three wires for each three-phase output AC power signal). Each rectifier 530 can be connected (e.g., via two wires) to a common braking circuit 804 (e.g., including at least one braking sensor). The common braking circuit 804 can be connected to a common booster 806 (e.g., a single booster for all fluid turbines 404). The charge controller 802 (e.g., common to all fluid turbines 404) can be connected to an inverter 434 to output AC power to the grid 718. Therefore, the common or shared charge controller 802 can connect multiple fluid turbines 404 to a single inverter 434 via multiple rectifiers 530 (e.g., one rectifier for each fluid turbine 404). In some embodiments, the inverter 434 can be configured to implement an MPPT protocol on each fluid turbine 404 via the rectifier 530. In some embodiments, because the power loss of the three-phase AC output is relatively low, a cable can connect each energy generator 406 to a single charge controller 410. This may be advantageous when the fluid turbines 404 are distributed over a large area (e.g., when the distance between any two fluid turbines 404 is at least greater than the blade diameter of each fluid turbine, and / or when the turbine cluster includes many fluid turbines). The circuit 800 may lack MPPT control, may include individual MPPT control for each fluid turbine 404, or may include centralized MPPT control for multiple geographically associated fluid turbines 404, for example, operating as a single fluid energy conversion system.

[0112] By way of another non-limiting example, Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 900 for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The circuit 900 may be substantially similar to the circuits 700 and 800 (eg, in combination with Figure 4 and 5), but the significant difference is that each energy generator 406 can be connected to a different rectifier 530 (e.g., via three inputs of a three-phase AC signal). Each rectifier 530 can output a DC signal (e.g., via two wires for positive and negative poles) to a single (e.g., common) charge controller 902, which includes a common braking circuit 804 and a common booster 806 for multiple fluid turbines 404. The rectifiers 530 can be connected to the charge controller 902 in parallel.

[0113] By way of another non-limiting example, Fig.10 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 1000 for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The circuit 1000 may be substantially similar to the circuits 700, 800, and 900 (eg, in combination with Figure 4 and 5 ), but significantly different in that each energy generator 406 can be connected to a separate charge controller 410, wherein each charge controller 410 includes at least a rectifier 530, a braking circuit 712, an MPPT controller 1002, and a booster 714. Each charge controller 410 can transmit a DC power signal (e.g., in parallel) to an inverter 434 to connect to a grid 718, or to a battery bank 720.

[0114] By way of another non-limiting example, Fig.11 A schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 1100 for controlling a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The circuit 1100 can be substantially similar to the circuits 700, 800, 900, and 1000, but with the notable difference that each charge controller 410 can include a rectifier 530, a braking circuit 712, and an MPPT controller 1002. Each charge controller 410 can output a DC signal to a common booster 806, which can deliver the total DC power to an inverter and a grid, or to a battery bank 720.

[0115] Reference is made to exemplary Table 1 (below), which compares circuits 700 through 1100 for utilizing power from a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines. Table 1: Comparison of different configurations for harnessing power from multiple geographically associated fluid turbines.

[0116] Fig.12An exemplary graph 1200 is shown consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure, which shows the change in power output of a fluid turbine operating at various fluid speeds as a function of rotational speed. The horizontal axis 1216 (e.g., x-axis) of the graph 1200 corresponds to the rotational speed of the fluid turbine (e.g., measured in revolutions per minute (RPM)). The vertical axis 1218 (e.g., y-axis) of the graph 1200 corresponds to the power output of the fluid turbine at each rotational speed. The graph 1200 may include multiple curves (e.g., lines 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226, 1228, and 1230), each curve corresponding to a different fluid speed (e.g., v w1 to v w6 ). Each curve in graph 1200 may include different peaks (e.g., peaks 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, 1212, and 1214) indicating a rotational speed at which the fluid turbine can produce a maximum (e.g., or near maximum) power level at a corresponding fluid velocity. For example, peak 1204 of curve 1220 may indicate that when the fluid velocity is v w1 The peak 1206 of curve 1222 may represent the maximum power output of the fluid turbine when the fluid velocity is v. w2 , and the maximum power output can be achieved when the fluid turbine rotates at the corresponding rotational speed, and so on.

[0117] Line 1202 (eg, tracks each fluid velocity v w1 to v w6 The peak power outputs 1204 to 1214 of the fluid turbine may be used to determine a target rotational speed for the fluid turbine to produce a maximum (e.g., or near maximum) power output at each fluid speed. In some embodiments, the chart 1200 may be used to implement an MPPT protocol for a particular fluid turbine. In some embodiments, at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 428 and / or 512) may use the chart 1200 to control a load on the fluid turbine via a charge controller (e.g., charge controller 410, 802, and / or 902) to rotate the fluid turbine at a rotational speed corresponding to line 1202 for a particular fluid speed. In some embodiments, each of a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines may be associated with a different version of the chart 1200 (e.g., depending on the design and operating parameters of each fluid turbine). In some embodiments, each of a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbines may be associated with a substantially similar version of the chart 1200.

[0118] Fig.13A schematic diagram of an exemplary circuit 1300 consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the circuit 1300 may be associated with any of the charge controllers 410, 802, and / or 902. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the circuit 1300 may be associated with the interconnect circuit 414. In some embodiments, a portion of the circuit 1300 may be associated with any of the charge controllers 410, 802, and / or 902, and another portion of the circuit 1300 may be associated with the interconnect circuit 414.

[0119] Circuit 1300 may include at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 512), a memory (e.g., memory 514), a mechanical brake control (e.g., mechanical brake control 520), an electronic brake control (e.g., electronic brake controller 518), a rectifier (e.g., rectifier 530), a first voltage sensor 1310, a circuit protector 1312 (e.g., including at least one of an electrostatic discharge, overvoltage and / or overcurrent protection circuit), a switch 1314 (e.g., a single-pole double-throw switch), a first DC / DC converter 1316 (e.g., configured to operate above a voltage threshold), a second DC / DC converter 1318 (e.g., configured to operate below a voltage threshold), a second voltage sensor 1320, an energy storage component 1322, and a DC power output 1324. Rectifier 530 may be a three-phase rectifier configured to generate a variable DC voltage output. In some embodiments, DC power output 1324 may be directed to an inverter (e.g., inverter 434) to be converted into an AC power output signal. In some embodiments, DC output 1324 may direct DC power output 1324 to a battery pack.

[0120] The at least one processor 512 may control braking of the fluid turbine 404 connected to the energy generator 406 based on one or more signals, such as the AC power output 408 (e.g., a three-phase AC power output signal) delivered to the circuit 1300 and / or signals received from one or more sensors (e.g., at least one sensor 418). The rectifier 530 may convert the AC power output 408 into a DC power signal. The at least one processor 512 may receive an indication of the AC power output 408 via the first voltage sensor 1310 as a DC power output measurement. The fluid turbine 404 and the energy generator 406 may be associated with a mechanical brake 608. To control mechanical braking of the fluid turbine 404 and / or the energy generator 406, the at least one processor 512 may send a control signal to the mechanical brake control 520 to engage the mechanical brake 608. To control electronic braking of the fluid turbine 404, the at least one processor 512 may cause the energy generator 406 to bear a load via the electronic brake control 518. In some embodiments, the power output sensor 510 may be associated with the first voltage sensor 1310 and / or the second voltage sensor 1320 .

[0121] By way of non-limiting example, the first DC / DC converter 1316 may be configured to operate at 500 watts, receive an input ranging between 18-60V and output a voltage ranging between 3.3-24V, turn on at 16.5V, and operate at an efficiency of less than 98.5%. The second DC / DC converter 1318 may be configured to operate at 300 watts, receive an input ranging between 9-36V and output a voltage ranging between 8-24V, turn on at 9V, and operate at an efficiency of less than 97%. The switch 1314 may direct a DC signal greater than or equal to 22V to the first DC / DC converter 1316, and direct a DC signal less than 22V to the second DC / DC converter 1318. In some embodiments, at least one processor 512 can cause the fluid turbine 404 to follow an MPPT protocol to produce a peak (or near peak) AC power output by matching the electronic load applied to the energy generator 406 to the rotational speed of the fluid turbine 404 for a given fluid velocity (e.g., based on a version of chart 1200 stored in memory 514).

[0122] In some embodiments, at least one processor 512 may communicate with at least one processor 428, For example, to transmit information associated with the load imposed on the fluid turbine 404. For example, at least one processor can use the information to implement one or more MPPT protocols (e.g., including a separate MPPT protocol or a low-level MPPT protocol for a single fluid turbine, and / or an MPPT protocol or a high-level MPPT protocol for a plurality of geographically associated fluid turbine clusters) to coordinate braking of the geographically associated fluid turbine clusters, and / or coordinate blade orientation of the geographically associated fluid turbine clusters.

[0123] For example, Fig.10 Can be used with Figure 4 and 13 Together, they are a detailed schematic diagram of the overall fluid energy conversion system 400. A version of the circuit 1300 may be associated with each MPPT control 1002 of the charge controller 410, thereby allowing each of the at least one processor 512 (e.g., each processor dedicated to one of the individual fluid turbines 404) to coordinate the operation of each fluid turbine 404 (e.g., in isolation). In addition, the interconnect circuit 414 may be connected to each MPPT control 1002, thereby allowing the at least one processor 428 to receive information from any charge controller 410 (e.g., each charge controller dedicated to one of the individual fluid turbines 404) to coordinate the operation of the fluid turbines 404 operating in the cluster 401 as the overall fluid energy conversion system 400.

[0124] Fig.14 An exemplary graph 1400 of a periodic power signal generated by an energy generator connected to a fluid turbine consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Graph 1400 may represent a power signal generated by energy generator 406 as fluid turbine 404 rotates in response to fluid flow 210. In some embodiments, graph 1400 may be substantially sinusoidal, corresponding to the rotational motion of fluid turbine 404, wherein different rotational phases may correspond to different levels of energy generation.

[0125] Equipping small fluid turbines with electronic and mechanical brakes can be challenging. Implementing brakes for both horizontal and vertical axis turbines can be expensive and / or difficult for small turbines. During a hurricane, significant aerodynamic forces may continue to affect the turbine even if the turbine is fully braked (unless the turbine has yaw capabilities, which can be expensive for small turbines). Disclosed embodiments include placing shrouds or bags over the turbine blades to significantly mitigate the effects of the wind. Some durability advantages may even be gained by being slightly more flexible in moving with the wind. The method can be initiated by obtaining a weather forecast prior to placing the shroud on the fluid turbine. For increased safety and practicality, the brakes can be activated to stop the rotation of the blades prior to placing the shroud on the turbine, but this is not required.

[0126] For added safety and practicality, a rod may be attached to the open end of the shroud. The rod may be detachable from the shroud. It may be left attached to make it easier to remove the shroud after a hurricane. The rod may be attached to the base or fuselage of the turbine to more securely mount the shroud. The rod may serve to hold the shroud open so that it can be placed over the blades. In one embodiment, the rod and shroud combination may be shaped like a butterfly net, but may be watertight. A partially open shroud may be used so that the turbine can still rotate to some extent and generate electricity during a hurricane.

[0127] The poles may be completely fixed to the shroud at the opening, like a butterfly net. The poles may also be attached to the shroud by other means, such as by threading a tube extending from the poles into a fabric tunnel made around the outer edge of the shroud. A non-detachable pole provided with the shroud may remain attached so that the shroud can be readily removed after a hurricane. In one embodiment, the shroud may be made of rip-stop nylon or any other durable fabric. In one embodiment, the shroud may include at least one washer that corresponds to a bump on a non-moving part of the turbine, such as a turbine base.

[0128] Disclosed embodiments may include a shroud that is slightly larger in size than the turbine blades and that may be configured to be placed over the blades. In some embodiments, the turbine includes electronic and / or physical brakes to slow or stop the turbine. In some embodiments, at least one grommet or cord attached to the shroud may correspond to an extrusion or hole on the turbine base or body to attach the shroud. In some embodiments, a rod may be attached to the shroud to hold the shroud open to a size larger than the blades on all sides. The rod may be removable or non-removable.

[0129] Disclosed embodiments include a method for applying brakes to a turbine. The method may include the step of providing a turbine with blades. The method may include the step of providing a cover having a size (e.g., a size) greater than the size of the blades. The method may include the step of placing the cover cover over the blades. In some embodiments, a physical and / or electronic brake may be activated before the cover is placed over the blades. In some embodiments, the cover includes at least one grommet or rope attached to the cover, which may correspond to an extrusion or hole on a turbine base or body to attach the cover, thereby attaching the cover to the turbine base. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving a weather forecast of an approaching hurricane and placing the cover over the blades of a fluid turbine before the hurricane arrives. In some embodiments, the method includes connecting a rod to the cover that opens the cover to a size greater than the size of the blades on all sides. The cover may be thrown over the blades using the rod. The rod may be removable or non-removable.

[0130] Supplying electrical energy to the grid may require matching the voltage, frequency, and / or phase of the grid power signal waveform. In addition, some electronic components (such as inverters) may be designed to operate outside of a specific range, which may affect performance and / or introduce losses and inefficiencies. When operating under low fluid velocity conditions, the turbine-driven generator may not be able to output AC electrical energy sufficient to supply the grid and / or fall within the operating range of the electronic components. However, if the energy generated under low fluid velocity conditions cannot be utilized, energy losses may result, thereby hindering the efficiency of the fluid energy conversion system.

[0131] For example, at low wind speeds, the electrical energy generated by the fluid turbine may not be suitable for the grid (e.g., it may be less than 120V, or the frequency may be less than 50Hz). In this case, the energy can be stored in the battery. When the wind speed is high enough, the energy generated may be suitable for direct supply to the grid (e.g., 120V, 50Hz, etc.). The controller can determine whether the energy is suitable for direct supply. If the energy is not suitable for direct supply to the grid, the controller can switch the controllable switch to store the energy in the battery for subsequent use. If the energy is suitable for direct supply to the grid, the controller can switch the controllable switch so that the energy is directed to the grid. Sometimes, the controller can also allow energy to be provided from the battery to smooth the energy supplied to the grid.

[0132] For example, under sufficient wind conditions, a wind turbine can supply 100 kWh of electricity to the grid per year. However, under low wind conditions, the wind turbine can only produce an average of 7.5 watts per hour, which may not be enough to meet the threshold requirements of the inverter and / or the grid. With 4,000 hours of low wind conditions per year, this may accumulate to a power loss of 30 kW (e.g., 4,000 hours x 7.5 watts / hour). In this example, utilizing the energy generated under low wind conditions can increase annual power generation by 30%.

[0133] The present invention discloses a system, method and non-transitory computer-readable medium for controlling an energy generator. Such a control system may include: a detector for sensing an indicator associated with the electric energy generated by the energy generator; at least one energy storage component configured to store energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a subthreshold level in a first operating mode that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated electric energy receiver in real time; an energy converter configured to provide energy generated by the energy generator during operation above a threshold level in a second operating mode for supplying energy to an associated electric energy receiver in real time; and a controllable switch electrically connected to the detector and configured to alternately switch between the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on the indicator, thereby allowing the energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected and intermittently used to allow the energy generated under low-speed conditions to be utilized.

[0134] Some embodiments relate to a control system for an energy generator.A control system for an energy generator may include a system configured to manage, coordinate, direct, and / or supervise one or more operating parameters of the energy generator. These parameters may include, for example, voltage levels, current levels, impedance, capacitance, inductance, load, brakes, rotational speed of the rotor and / or a fluid turbine connected thereto, frequency of the AC signal, phase of the AC signal, voltage level of the DC signal (e.g., converted from the AC signal), charge level of one or more associated energy storage components, and / or any other parameter associated with the operation of the energy generator.

[0135] Some embodiments relate to a detector for sensing an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by an energy generator. The detector may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Sensing (e.g., perception) may include detecting, measuring, and / or receiving a measurement value. The indicator may include a measurement result, a symbol, and / or a signal that conveys information about, for example, the state and / or level of electrical energy. The detector for sensing an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the energy generator may include a detector associated with the energy generator and / or a fluid turbine connected thereto. Examples of detectors associated with the energy generator may include a voltmeter and / or an ammeter for measuring electrical signals, a magnetometer for measuring magnetic fields, and / or a detector for measuring the rotational speed of the rotor. Examples of detectors associated with a fluid turbine may include an anemometer for sensing fluid velocity, and / or a detector for measuring the rotational speed of multiple blades and / or shafts of a fluid turbine (e.g., as described elsewhere in this disclosure).

[0136] In some embodiments, the indicator is a measurement of the electrical output of the energy generator. The measurement of the electrical output may include a current level, a voltage level, a frequency, and / or a phase. The measurement of the electrical output may include a measurement of the AC power output and / or a measurement of a DC power signal converted from the AC output power (e.g., using a rectifier). In some embodiments, the indicator is a measurement of fluid velocity. The fluid velocity may refer to the rate at which the fluid flows (e.g., in meters per second or mps, or kilometers per hour or kph). The energy generator may be associated with a fluid turbine configured to convert the fluid flow into rotational mechanical motion. The energy generator may convert the rotational mechanical motion into an AC power signal (e.g., see Fig.14). The characteristics of the fluid flow can affect the characteristics of the electrical energy generated by the energy generator associated with the fluid turbine. For example, the fluid velocity can be converted into the rotational speed of the rotor of the fluid turbine and / or the associated energy generator, which can be converted into the phase, amplitude and / or frequency of the AC power signal generated by the energy generator. Therefore, the measurement of the fluid velocity can be used as an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the energy generator. In some embodiments, the fluid is air, for example, the fluid velocity is wind speed. For example, the energy generator can be associated with a wind turbine, which is configured to convert wind (e.g., airflow) into rotational mechanical motion. In some embodiments, the fluid is water, for example, the fluid velocity is the speed of a water flow or stream. For example, the energy generator can be associated with a water turbine, which is configured to convert ocean currents or rivers into rotational mechanical motion.

[0137] In some embodiments, the indicator is associated with a measurement of the rotational speed of the turbine of the energy generator. The rotational speed of the turbine of the energy generator may correspond to the number of revolutions completed per minute (e.g., revolutions per minute or RPM) or the number of cycles completed per second (e.g., Hertz) by the blades and / or shaft and / or associated rotor of the fluid turbine. Detectors for measuring the rotational speed of the turbine may include a tachometer (e.g., configured to measure the rotational speed of the fluid turbine shaft), a reluctance sensor, an inductive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (e.g., configured to use the Hall effect to detect the presence of a magnetic field to determine the rotation of the fluid turbine shaft), an oscillation sensor, an optical sensor (e.g., an encoder and / or an infrared sensor configured to measure the rotational speed of the turbine shaft by counting the number of revolutions or measuring the duration between revolutions), an ultrasonic sensor (e.g., configured to emit ultrasonic waves to measure the distance between the sensor and the blades of the fluid turbine, thereby determining the rotational speed of the blades). The tolerance threshold of the rotational speed may limit the rotational speed of the fluid turbine to prevent blade erosion and / or stress on the blades and shaft of the fluid turbine from causing instability and fracture, and to ensure correct, efficient and / or safe operation. The indicator of the rotational speed of the fluid turbine of the energy generator may include an electronic signal emitted by a detector for measuring the rotational speed of the fluid turbine.

[0138] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 1300 can be used as a control system for the energy generator 406. The circuit 1300 can include a rectifier 530 configured to convert the AC power output 408 generated by the energy generator 406 into a DC signal. The circuit can include a detector (e.g., a voltage sensor 1310) located downstream of the rectifier 530 to sense the voltage and / or current level of the DC signal (e.g., an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the generator 406). Additionally or alternatively, in Figure 4-5, sensors 418A and 418B may include one or more detectors (e.g., sensors 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, and 524). Sensors 418A and 418B may sense indicators associated with electrical energy generated by generators 406A and 406B, respectively. For example, power output sensor 510 (e.g., including a voltmeter and / or an ammeter) may sense an indicator associated with electrical energy generated by generators 406A and 406B (e.g., electrical output). Additionally or alternatively, fluid velocity sensor 504 may sense fluid velocity as an indicator associated with electrical energy generated by generators 406A and 406B. In some embodiments, the fluid may be wind (e.g., see fluid flow 210 in FIG. 2 ), and the fluid turbine may be a wind turbine (e.g., fluid turbine 100). In some embodiments, the fluid may be water, and the fluid turbine may be a hydro turbine (e.g., see Figure 1 Turbine 104 in FIG.

[0139] Some embodiments relate to at least one energy storage component configured to store energy generated by an energy generator during operation at a subthreshold level in a first operating mode, which is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time. An energy storage component may refer to a device or device group configured to accumulate and / or collect (e.g., electrical) energy for subsequent use. The energy storage component may store electrical energy as potential energy for subsequent use, for example, storing kinetic energy for work. In some embodiments, AC electrical energy may be converted to DC electrical energy (e.g., as a DC voltage potential) to be accumulated in an energy storage component. Some examples of at least one energy storage component may include one or more batteries and / or capacitors. Storing energy may include accumulating and / or collecting reserve energy. Storing energy generated by an energy generator in an energy storage component may involve using a transmission line or cable to transfer an electrical energy flow from an energy generator output to an input of an energy storage component. In some embodiments, at least one energy storage component includes a capacitor or a battery. Capacitors and batteries may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one energy storage component includes multiple capacitors, for example, multiple capacitors. In some embodiments, multiple capacitors can be arranged in parallel, for example, to maintain a common voltage difference or level. For example, the common voltage difference of each energy storage component can facilitate conversion (e.g., conversion to other DC voltage levels and / or AC voltages) for subsequent use of the stored energy.

[0140] An operating mode may refer to a manner and / or a set of conditions in which one or more processes are performed. An operating mode may adjust or modulate the operation of a system to adapt to a particular set or series of conditions. For example, a first operating mode may be associated with a first set of conditions, and a second operating mode may be associated with a second set of conditions. The first operating mode may be incompatible or unsuitable with the second set of conditions. The second operating mode may be incompatible or unsuitable with the first set of conditions. For example, a first operating mode may be associated with generating energy that is insufficient to be supplied to an electric energy receiver in real time, while a second operating mode may be associated with generating energy sufficient to be supplied to an electric energy receiver in real time. The first operating mode may allow the electric energy generated at a subthreshold level to be stored in at least one energy storage component for subsequent use, thereby allowing the energy generated at a subthreshold level to be collected and prevented from being lost. For example, in the first operating mode, the electric energy generated may not be suitable for supply to the power grid, and therefore may be stored. In the second mode, the electric energy generated may be suitable for supply to the power grid, and therefore will be supplied to the power grid.

[0141] Insufficient may refer to inadequacy, lack, lack and / or insufficiency. Real-time may refer to operations and / or processes occurring within a specified time limit. In some embodiments, real-time may take into account communication and / or processing delays, but may exclude delays associated with storing data for later use. Supply (e.g., supply) may include providing, transmitting and / or delivering (e.g., via a medium). For example, energy may be supplied via one or more (e.g., high power) transmission lines (e.g., overhead transmission lines, segmented transmission lines and / or underground transmission lines). Supplying energy in real time may refer to providing an electric energy flow at a rate (e.g., dynamic) at which electric energy is generated. For example, energy may be supplied without statically storing the generated electric energy (e.g., in an energy storage component such as a battery or capacitor). Alternatively, energy may also be supplied in real time via an intermediate storage device. Thresholds (e.g., threshold levels) may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Threshold levels may be associated with energy levels suitable for supply to a power grid, operating ranges of inverters associated therewith, and / or energy required to operate circuits associated with controlling fluid turbines and / or associated energy generators. In some embodiments, the threshold level may be associated with the fluid velocity and / or the rotational speed of the fluid turbine and / or the energy generator. A sub-threshold level may refer to a measurable quantity that is below a threshold level and / or exceeds a threshold level tolerance. An electrical energy receiver may refer to a circuit and / or electrical system configured to receive electrical current. Examples of electrical energy receivers may include one or more batteries, capacitors, loads, electrically powered devices, and / or electrical grids.

[0142] Operation at a sub-threshold level and unable to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time (e.g., a generator) may refer to the energy level produced by the fluid turbine and / or associated generator being insufficient to supply the power receiver. For example, the electrical energy may not meet one or more standards and / or regulations associated with the power grid, may not fall within the operating range of the inverter, and / or may not be considered for controlling the fluid turbine and / or associated generator. Or the electrical energy required to power the circuit of the associated generator. The subthreshold level of operation may be associated with low fluid velocity, low rotation speed (e.g., turbine blades or shaft and / or generator rotor) and / or low electrical energy output (e.g., current or voltage). For example, the electrical energy supplied to the grid may need to conform to the voltage, frequency and / or phase of the grid power signal waveform (e.g., 60Hz, 120V, or 50Hz, 240V). Therefore, generating electricity below 120V at 60Hz or generating electricity below 240V at 50Hz can represent operation at a subthreshold level for real-time power supply to the power receiver. For another example, the electrical energy supplied to the power receiver may need to be converted to AC voltage via an inverter. Therefore, generating electrical energy below the operating range of the inverter can represent real-time power supply to the power receiver under the condition of subthreshold level operation. As another example, electrical energy may be required to power the circuit associated with controlling the fluid turbine and / or the associated generator, for example, while providing real-time energy supply to the power receiver. Such circuitry may include, for example, at least one processor, at least one memory, a braking circuit and / or system, an MPPT unit, one or more sensors or detectors, and / or any other energy consuming components for controlling the fluid turbine and / or associated generator. Thus, in some embodiments, when the electrical energy is insufficient to power the circuit and at the same time does not meet the grid requirements and / or the operating range of the inverter, a sub-threshold level of operation may be indicated to power the power receiver in real time.

[0143] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the first operating mode, at least one energy storage component 1322 can be configured to store energy generated by the generator 406 during operation at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated power receiver 402 in real time (e.g., see Figure 4 ). In some embodiments, energy storage component 1322 may include one or more capacitors. As another non-limiting example, in Figure 7-10 In the first operating mode, the battery pack 720 (e.g., at least one energy storage component) can be configured to store energy generated by one or more generators 406 during operation at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver (e.g., the grid 718) in real time.

[0144] Some embodiments relate to an energy converter configured to provide energy generated by an energy generator during operation above a threshold level in a second operating mode, which is used to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time. Conversion may include transformation, change and / or adjustment. An energy converter may refer to a device or circuit configured to convert a first type of electrical energy into a second type of electrical energy. For example, a charge controller (e.g., including an AC-DC converter or inverter) may convert an alternating current (AC) signal generated by a generator into a direct current (DC) signal (e.g., to power one or more electronic components). For another example, a rectifier may convert a DC signal into an AC signal. As a further example, a DC-DC converter may convert a DC signal from a first voltage level to a second voltage level. Providing (e.g., providing to) may include supplying, transmitting and / or delivering. Providing energy may include supplying, delivering and / or transmitting energy, for example, via a high-power transmission line. Supplying energy to an associated power receiver in real time may include providing a flow of electrical energy at a rate at which electrical energy is generated (e.g., dynamically) while avoiding and / or preventing (e.g., statically) storing electrical energy for later use. Operating above a threshold level for real-time supply of energy to an associated power receiver may refer to energy generated by a fluid turbine and / or an associated generator at a level sufficient to supply the power receiver. For example, the power generated by a fluid turbine or an associated generator may meet one or more standards and / or regulations associated with a power grid, may fall within the operating range of an inverter, and / or may be considered to be the power required to power a circuit for controlling a fluid turbine and / or an associated generator. Operation above a threshold level may be associated with, for example, a fluid velocity above a threshold, a rotational speed above a threshold (e.g., turbine blades or shafts, and / or generator rotors), and / or a power output above a threshold (e.g., current or voltage). For example, electricity generated at 60Hz 120V or 50Hz, 240V may represent operation above a threshold level for real-time supply of power to a power receiver. As another example, generating power within the operating range of an inverter may represent operation above a threshold level for real-time supply of power to a power receiver. As a further example, generating sufficient power to power a circuit while meeting grid requirements and / or an operating range of an inverter may represent operating above a threshold level to provide power to a power receiver in real time.

[0145] In some embodiments, the energy converter includes an inverter, and the associated power receiver includes a power grid. The inverter and the power grid can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. For example, the inverter can convert a DC signal generated by one or more energy generators into an AC signal compatible with the power grid. In some embodiments, a single inverter can convert the total DC signal generated by the fluid turbine cluster and the associated energy generators into a single AC signal compatible with the power grid. In some embodiments, the threshold is associated with the maximum input voltage rating or the minimum input voltage rating of the inverter. The rated voltage of the inverter can refer to the voltage threshold used to operate the inverter and / or the tolerance associated with the voltage threshold. The rated voltage of the inverter can be related to one or more considerations associated with safety, performance, efficiency and / or compatibility (e.g., connection to the power grid). The maximum rated voltage of the inverter can be associated with an upper limit or upper boundary of the voltage signal input to the inverter. The minimum rated voltage of the inverter can be associated with a lower limit or lower boundary of the voltage signal input to the inverter. Therefore, the threshold level used to determine when to operate according to the first operating mode and when to operate according to the second operating mode can be related to the operating range of the inverter (e.g., maximum and / or or minimum input voltage rating).

[0146] Some embodiments relate to at least one DC-DC converter and at least one rectifier, which is configured to convert an AC power signal generated by an energy generator operating above a threshold level into a DC signal during a second operating mode. The DC-DC converter, rectifier and AC (e.g., AC power signal) can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. When the energy generator converts mechanical rotational motion into an AC power signal, the characteristics of the AC power signal (e.g., voltage level, frequency and / or phase) can correspond to the characteristics of the mechanical rotational motion. However, such signal characteristics may not meet the regulations and / or specifications for real-time power supply to the power grid. Therefore, when the energy generator operates above the threshold level (e.g., during the second operating mode), the associated rectifier can convert the AC power signal into a DC signal. The DC signal can be manipulated so that the manipulated DC signal is converted via an associated inverter to generate an AC signal suitable for supplying energy to the power grid in real time. In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter is configured to adjust the converted DC signal to another DC signal to supply energy to the associated power grid via an inverter in the second operating mode. Adaptation (e.g., adapting) may include adjustment and / or manipulation, for example, to achieve compliance and / or suitability with one or more specifications and / or regulations associated with supplying energy to a power grid in real time. The DC-DC converter may receive a DC signal converted from an AC power signal via a rectifier associated with an energy generator. The DC-DC converter may step down or step up the converted DC signal to generate another DC signal, which, when converted to an AC signal via an inverter, may comply with one or more specifications and / or regulations associated with supplying energy to a power grid in real time.

[0147] In some embodiments, the energy converter includes a charge controller, and the associated power receiver includes a battery pack. The charge controller and the battery pack may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The charge controller may ensure compliance with one or more regulations and / or specifications, such as regulations and / or specifications associated with the battery pack and / or the fluid turbine and / or the associated energy generator. For example, the charge controller may transfer excess DC power to a load shedding load to prevent overcharging of the battery pack and prevent the rotational speed of the fluid turbine and / or the rotor from exceeding a safety threshold. For example, applying a drag load shedding to the generator may increase the load torque applied to the wind turbine, thereby slowing the rotation of the turbine blades. Additionally or alternatively, the charge controller may permit aggregation of multiple DC signals generated by multiple generators to be supplied to the battery pack in real time.

[0148] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 4In some embodiments, the power receiver 402 may include a power grid 718 (e.g., see FIG. 1 ). Figure 7 ). In some embodiments, the threshold value may be associated with a maximum input voltage rating or a minimum input voltage rating of the inverter 434 .

[0149] By way of another non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment, the DC-DC converter 1318 and the rectifier 530 The rectifier 530 may be configured to convert the AC power output 408 (e.g., AC power output) generated by one or more generators 406 operating above the threshold level into a DC signal during the second operating mode. The rectifier 530 may convert the AC power output 408 into a corresponding DC signal. The DC-DC converter 1318 may adjust the converted DC signal into another DC signal, which, when converted by the inverter 434, may generate an AC signal above the threshold, which may be supplied to the relevant power grid 718 (e.g., see Figures 7 to 11 ). By way of another non-limiting example, in Figure 4 In the embodiment, the energy converter may include a charge controller 410 (eg, charge controllers 410A and 410B), and the associated power receiver 402 may include a battery pack 720 (eg, see Figure 7 ). Charging controllers 410A and 410B may convert AC power outputs 408A and 408B, respectively, during the second operating mode to supply energy to battery pack 720 in real time.

[0150] Some embodiments relate to a controllable switch electrically connected to a detector. A switch may refer to an electronic component or device capable of switching a circuit to interrupt a signal and / or allow a signal to flow uninterruptedly (e.g., capable of turning a signal on or off) and / or capable of transferring a signal from one path to at least one other path. An electronic switch may include one or more diodes and / or transistors. A controllable switch may include a switch associated with a trigger signal that is configured to operate the switch (e.g., by turning the switch on or off). In some embodiments, a controllable switch may include a switch associated with at least one processor. A controllable switch electrically connected to a detector may include a detector connected to the switch via one or more wires and / or optical fibers, thereby allowing a trigger signal generated by the detector to operate the switch.

[0151] Some embodiments relate to a controllable switch configured to alternately switch between a first operating mode and a second operating mode based on an indicator. Alternating can refer to being able to change or switch back and forth, such as continuously. Switching can include switching, flipping, exchanging or otherwise changing a state. Alternating between the first operating mode and the second operating mode can include switching back and forth between the two operating modes in response to changing fluid velocity conditions. In some cases, alternating switching can include repeatedly switching between the two operating modes.

[0152] For example, based on the power level, the controllable switch may alternate between activating a first circuit to store power at a subthreshold level in a first operating mode of the energy generator and activating a second circuit to supply power to the power receiver in real time at a level above the threshold in a second operating mode of the energy generator. A controllable switch electrically associated with the detector is used to alternate between the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on an indicator, and the controllable switch may be configured to alternate between the first circuit associated with the first operating mode and the second circuit associated with the second operating mode based on an indicator received from the detector. When the indicator received from the detector indicates that power is being generated at a subthreshold level, the controllable switch may establish a connection with the first circuit associated with the first operating mode, and may interrupt or cut off a connection with the second circuit associated with the second operating mode. When the indicator received from the detector indicates that the generated power is above the threshold level, the controllable switch may interrupt or cut off a connection with the first circuit associated with the first operating mode, and may establish a connection with the second circuit associated with the second operating mode.

[0153] Some embodiments relate to a controllable switch configured to allow collection and intermittent use of energy generated at subthreshold levels. Allowing may include permitting, granting and / or establishing a connection to permit access and / or communication (e.g., to a circuit). Collection may include accumulation, aggregation and / or storage. Intermittent may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Intermittent use may include regular use and / or occasional use. Allowing collection and intermittent use of energy generated at subthreshold levels may include periodically accumulating and / or storing energy when energy is generated at subthreshold levels and periodically releasing the accumulated energy when energy is generated above a threshold level.

[0154] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment, the controllable switch 1314 can be connected to the voltage sensor 1310 The controllable switch 1314 is electrically connected to a first operating mode (e.g., connected to a DC-DC converter 1316) and a second operating mode (e.g., connected to a DC-DC converter 1318) based on an indicator. By establishing a connection with the DC-DC converter 1316 and disconnecting a connection with the DC-DC converter 1318, the controllable switch 1314 can thereby allow the energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected (e.g., in the energy storage component 1322) for subsequent intermittent use.

[0155] Some embodiments relate to at least one rectifier for converting a first AC electrical signal generated by an energy generator operating at a subthreshold level into a first DC power signal suitable for storing energy in at least one energy storage component. The rectifier may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Suitable may refer to suitable and / or operable. At least one energy storage component may be configured to store energy in DC form, so the AC power signal generated by the energy generator may not be suitable for storage in at least one energy storage component. In order to allow the energy generated by the energy generator to be stored in at least one energy storage component (e.g., in a first operating mode), the associated rectifier may convert the AC power signal generated by the energy generator operating at a subthreshold level into a DC power signal. Once in DC form, at least one energy storage component may receive the DC power signal and store the DC power signal as (e.g., static) DC energy. In some embodiments, at least one rectifier includes a three-phase rectifier. The three-phase rectifier may include a rectifier configured to receive a three-phase AC voltage at an input and convert the three-phase AC voltage into a DC voltage output. For example, the energy generator may be configured to generate a three-phase AC power signal from a rotating mechanical motion. The three-phase rectifier may convert the generated three-phase AC power signal into a DC signal, for example, to allow storage in at least one energy storage component.

[0156] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment of the present invention, the rectifier 530 can convert the AC power output 408 generated by the generator 406 operating at the subthreshold level into a first power signal, which is suitable for storing energy in at least one energy storage component 1322 (e.g., via the DC-DC converter 1316). In some embodiments, the generator 406 and the rectifier 530 can be a three-phase generator and a three-phase rectifier. Some embodiments involve at least one processor configured to control the controllable switch by receiving an indicator from the detector. The at least one processor can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, the detector, the switch and the at least one processor are integrated in the ASIC circuit. ASIC (e.g., application specific integrated circuit) may refer to a customized integrated circuit configured for a specific use scenario. ASIC circuits may contain logic specifically used to solve specific problems. Receiving may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Receiving an indicator from a detector may include receiving an electronic signal from a detector via a (e.g., wired and / or wireless) communication channel. The electronic signal may include information encoding one or more (e.g., sensed) physical phenomenon measurements. For example, at least one processor may receive a measurement of fluid velocity from an anemometer, and / or receive a measurement of the rotational speed of a fluid turbine and / or energy generator from a tachometer, a magnetoresistive sensor, an inductive sensor, a Hall effect sensor, an optical sensor, and / or an ultrasonic sensor. As another example, at least one processor may receive a measurement of voltage and / or current from a voltmeter and / or an ammeter. At least one processor may use the indicator to determine when the energy generator can operate at a subthreshold level in a first operating mode, and when the energy generator can operate at a level above a threshold in a second operating mode. For example, when the at least one processor determines that the energy generator can operate at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated power receiver in real time, the at least one processor can send a control signal to the controllable switch to activate a circuit associated with the first operating mode. When the at least one processor determines that the energy generator can operate above a threshold level to supply energy to the associated power receiver in real time, the at least one processor can transmit a control signal to the controllable switch to activate a circuit associated with the second operating mode.

[0157] In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to control a controllable switch by comparing a received indicator with a threshold value. The comparison may include contrasting, associating and / or analyzing, for example, identifying one or more distinguishing and / or similar features between two quantities, measurements and / or objects. In some embodiments, the comparison may include subtraction and / or division, for example, to determine the difference and / or ratio between the indicator and the threshold value. At least one processor may retrieve data corresponding to the threshold value from a memory and compare the received indicator with the threshold value. Based on the comparison, at least one processor may determine whether the energy generator is operating at a subthreshold level or above the threshold level so as to supply energy to the power receiver in real time. In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to control the controllable switch by switching the controllable switch between a first mode and a second mode based on the comparison. Switching (e.g., switching) may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. For example, a changing fluid condition may cause a corresponding change in the power generated by the energy generator. Under a first fluid flow condition (e.g., during a first time period), at least one processor may determine that the energy generator may be operating at a subthreshold level. At least one processor may transmit a control signal to the controllable switch to activate a circuit associated with a first operating mode to store energy in at least one energy storage component, and deactivate a circuit associated with a second operating mode. Under a second fluid flow condition (e.g., during a second time period after the first time period), at least one processor may determine that the energy generator may be operating above a threshold level. At least one processor may transmit a control signal to the controllable switch to activate a circuit associated with the second operating mode for supplying energy to an associated power receiver in real time, and deactivate a circuit associated with the first operating mode. Under a third fluid flow condition (e.g., during a third time period after the second time period), at least one processor may determine that the energy generator may resume operation at a sub-threshold level. At least one processor may transmit a control signal to the controllable switch to activate a circuit associated with the first operating mode to store energy in at least one energy storage component, and deactivate a circuit associated with the second operating mode.

[0158] By way of non-limiting example, at least one processor 512 may be configured to receive a signal from a detector (e.g., voltage sensor 1310) and compare the received indicator with a threshold value (e.g., retrieved from memory 514). Based on the comparison, at least one processor 512 may switch controllable switch 1314 between a DC-DC converter 1316 associated with a first operating mode and a DC-DC converter 1318 associated with a second operating mode.

[0159] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor, which is further configured to intermittently supply the energy collected in at least one energy storage component to an associated power receiver when the energy in at least one energy storage component reaches a limit. Limits may include boundaries, benchmarks, capacities, and / or constraints. Limits may refer to upper limits (e.g., ceilings, ceilings, or maximums) or lower limits (e.g., floors or minimums). For example, the limit of at least one energy storage component may correspond to the maximum capacity of the at least one energy storage component to store energy, the time period in which the stored energy can be released (e.g., limits), the amount of stored energy for release (e.g., predetermined), and / or any other criteria for determining when and / or how much stored energy can be released. In some embodiments, the time limit may include the amount of time (e.g., waiting time) required for at least one energy storage component to store additional energy to reach the power storage limit. Reaching a limit may include reaching a limit, and / or being within a tolerance range of a limit. For example, when it is detected that the energy level stored in the energy storage component reaches an energy storage limit, at least one processor may send a signal to release the energy stored in at least one storage component. At least one storage component may release all stored energy, or only a portion of the stored energy (e.g., based on time and / or energy demand criteria). The released energy may be received by an electric energy receiver and / or circuit associated with controlling one or more fluid turbines and / or associated energy generators. Some embodiments relate to at least one processor, which is further configured to intermittently provide energy collected in at least one energy storage component to smooth the power delivered to the associated electric energy receiver in the second mode. In some embodiments, the associated electric energy receiver may include a power grid. The power smoothly delivered to the associated electric energy receiver may correspond to the power smoothly delivered to the power grid, as described elsewhere in this disclosure. When operating under variable fluid flow conditions, the energy generator may generate different levels of energy, sometimes the energy generated is insufficient to be supplied to the power grid in real time (e.g., it can be stored in at least one energy storage component for subsequent use according to the first operating mode), and sometimes the energy generated is sufficient to be supplied to the power grid in real time according to the second operating mode. However, even the energy generated in the second operating mode may fluctuate, for example, in response to changing fluid conditions. In order to increase the energy below average generated in the second operating mode, at least one processor may send a signal to release at least some of the energy stored in at least one energy storage component, convert the released energy into an AC power signal compatible with the power grid, and add the converted energy to the energy below average, thereby achieving an average energy level supplied to the power grid in real time. In some embodiments, smoothing the power delivered to the grid may include diverting excess energy generated in the second operating mode.In some embodiments, at least one processor can transmit a signal to divert at least some excess energy to be stored in at least one energy storage component for subsequent use (e.g., to boost a below-average AC power signal). By boosting below-average AC power and / or diverting above-average AC power, at least one processor can reduce fluctuations in AC power fed into the grid.

[0160] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 When the energy in at least one energy storage component 1322 reaches a limit, at least one processor 512 may intermittently provide the energy collected in at least one energy storage component 1322 to the associated power receiver 402 (e.g., see Figure 4 ). In some embodiments, at least one processor 512 may intermittently supply energy collected in at least one energy storage component 1322 to smooth the power delivered to the associated power receiver 402 in the second mode.

[0161] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor that is further configured to intermittently supply energy collected from at least one energy storage component to a power circuit associated with an energy generator. The power circuit may include an electronic circuit configured to control one or more operations of a power generating fluid turbine, and / or a circuit configured to control and / or deliver the electrical power generated by the fluid turbine. In some embodiments, the power circuit may be associated with an energy generator associated with the fluid turbine. The power circuit may include one or more protection components, such as overcurrent, overload protection (e.g., shunt resistors, capacitors, and / or inductors) and / or rated contacts to comply with the voltage and current ratings of the load connected thereto. The power circuit associated with the generator may be configured to perform one or more protection, safety, and / or control functions associated with generating electrical energy. or supervisory program, and may require energy to operate. The at least one processor may transmit a control signal to release energy stored in the at least one storage component for use in operating a power circuit associated with the energy generator. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may cause power generated in the second operating mode to be drawn for use in operating a power circuit associated with the energy generator. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may (e.g., intermittently) replenish power to operate a power circuit associated with the energy generator, The power circuit has energy stored in at least one storage component (eg, generated in a first operating mode).

[0162] In some embodiments, the circuit is associated with a brake. The brake may include a mechanism for controlling the rotational speed of a rotor of a fluid turbine and / or a generator associated with the fluid turbine. The brake may include a mechanical brake and / or an electronic brake. The mechanical brake may include one or more brake pads, brake discs, and / or brake drums, which are configured to engage via a controllable switch, thereby slowing down the rotation of the fluid turbine and / or the rotor connected thereto. For example, a controllable switch may create a connection with a circuit configured to activate a mechanical component to engage a mechanical brake. The electronic brake may be configured to increase the load on the generator, thereby slowing down the rotation of the generator rotor. The brake may be used to moderate and / or regulate the operation of the energy generator by slowing down the rotation of the fluid turbine and / or the associated rotor. For example, slowing down the rotational speed of the rotor may prevent the energy generator from overheating. In some cases, slowing down the rotation of the rotor and / or the associated fluid turbine may cause a fluid turbine operating at a specific fluid speed to produce a peak power output (e.g., according to an MPPT protocol). The at least one processor may transmit a control signal to release energy stored in the at least one storage component for operating a brake, for example, to decelerate the energy generator. For example, the at least one processor may control the brake according to an MPPT protocol.

[0163] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment, at least one processor 512 can intermittently provide energy collected from at least one energy storage component 1322 to a power circuit 1300 associated with the energy generator 406 (e.g., including a mechanical brake control 520 and an electronic brake control 518 for operating a mechanical brake 608).

[0164] Some embodiments relate to at least one DC-DC converter configured to convert energy stored in at least one energy storage component to intermittently supply the stored energy during a first operating mode. The DC-DC converter can step up (e.g., increase) or step down (e.g., reduce) a DC voltage signal, for example, to accommodate the voltage requirements of one or more devices and / or energy receivers. For example, at least one energy storage component can store electrical energy at a first voltage, and the electrical energy receiver can consume electrical energy at a second voltage. At least one processor can cause the DC-DC converter to intermittently absorb energy stored in at least one energy storage component at a first voltage, and convert the absorbed energy to a second voltage to provide to the electrical energy receiver. In some cases, one or more electronic components associated with controlling the operation of the fluid turbine can intermittently use at least a portion of the electrical energy stored in at least one energy storage component. Such electronic components can include, for example, at least one processor, a memory, a mechanical brake control, an electronic brake control, a rectifier, or a circuit protector.

[0165] In some embodiments, at least one processor is configured to detect an energy level stored in at least one energy storage component and activate a DC-DC converter based on the detected level to discharge the at least one energy storage component. The energy level stored in the at least one energy storage component may include a charge level or capacity. Activating the DC-DC converter may include transmitting a signal to operate a switch to establish a connection between a voltage source and an input of the DC-DC converter and a voltage receiver and an output of the DC-DC converter. Discharging may refer to releasing energy or charge. When enough energy (e.g., above the energy level) is stored in at least one energy storage component to allow energy to be released to an associated power receiver, at least one processor may receive a signal from a detector (e.g., a voltage sensor). For example, at least one processor may receive a signal from a voltage detector associated with a battery and may use the signal to determine how much energy (e.g., a percentage of capacity) is stored in the battery. Based on the determined energy level (e.g., at least 50% of capacity, at least 75% of capacity, or at least 90% of capacity), at least one processor may activate a DC-DC converter to allow the battery to discharge. In some embodiments, the level of discharge allowed may be associated with the amount of energy (e.g., 4 watts) required to operate a circuit for controlling an energy generator. Under low fluid flow conditions, it may take time to generate and store enough energy to allow discharge in the first operating mode. Therefore, at least one processor may only intermittently activate the DC-DC converter to release the stored energy to allow the stored energy to be replenished. In some embodiments, at least one processor may control the DC signal output by the rectifier via a controllable switch to allow electrical energy to be stored until the stored energy level is sufficient to overcome an operating threshold associated with one or more electronic components and devices.

[0166] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.1313, the voltage sensor 1320 may detect a level of energy stored in the energy storage component 1322. The voltage sensor 1320 may transmit an indication of the detected energy level to the at least one processor 512. The at least one processor 512 may determine whether to discharge the energy storage component 1322 based on the detected energy level. When the detected energy level in the energy storage component 1322 exceeds a threshold amount, the at least one processor may send a control signal to the controllable switch 1314 to activate the DC-DC converter 1316. Activating the DC-DC converter 1316 may establish an electrical connection between the energy storage component 1322 and the DC-DC converter 1316, so that electrical energy flows from the energy storage component 1322, thereby discharging the energy storage component 1322. When the detected energy level in the energy storage component 1322 does not exceed the threshold amount, the at least one processor may refrain from transmitting a control signal to the controllable switch 1314 for activating the DC-DC converter 1316.

[0167] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor, which is further configured to select between a first operating mode and a second operating mode based on an operating parameter of the energy generator. Selection (e.g., selection) may include selection and / or picking. The operating parameter of the energy generator may refer to an attribute, the value of which may affect one or more functions of the energy generator. The operating parameter of the energy generator may include, for example, the rotational speed or direction of the rotor, the fluid velocity, the voltage, current, phase and / or frequency of the power output, capacitance, inductance, impedance, resistance, magnetic field, load, temperature, vibration, oscillation, brake or its state, and / or any other factor affecting the operation of the energy generator. In some embodiments, one or more operating parameters may be determined based on one or more other operating parameters, for example, the fluid velocity may be determined based on the rotational speed of the rotor of the energy generator, and vice versa. In some embodiments, the operating parameter of the energy generator may include a power curve (e.g., an MPPT power curve) indicating an optimal rotational speed of a fluid turbine operating at a specific fluid velocity. At least one processor may receive (e.g., from one or more detectors) measured values ​​of one or more operating parameters of the energy generator. At least one processor may use the received measurements to determine whether the energy generator is operating at a sub-threshold level and operate a switch to activate circuitry in a first mode of operation, or to determine whether the energy generator is operating above a threshold level and operate a switch to activate circuitry in a second mode of operation.

[0168] Some embodiments relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for controlling an energy generator. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may be understood as described elsewhere in the present disclosure. The operations may include receiving a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by the energy generator; comparing the received indicator with a threshold associated with supplying energy to an associated electrical energy receiver in real time; and controlling a controllable switch based on the comparison result, wherein the controllable switch is configured to alternately switch between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein in the first operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated electrical energy receiver in real time is stored in at least one energy storage component, and during the second operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation above the threshold level for supplying energy to the associated electrical energy receiver in real time is provided to the associated energy absorber via an energy converter, wherein the alternating switching between the first operating mode and the second operating mode allows the energy generated at the sub-threshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

[0169] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor 512 may receive a sensed indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the energy generator 406 from the voltage sensor 1310. The at least one processor 512 may store the received indicator in the memory 514 and transmit it to the associated power receiver 402. (See, for example, Figure 4 ) is compared with a threshold associated with real-time energy supply. At least one processor 512 can control the controllable switch 1314 based on the comparison result. The controllable switch 1314 can be alternately switched between a first operation mode and a second operation mode. In the first operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator 406 during sub-threshold operation that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated power receiver 402 in real time can be stored in at least one energy storage component 1322. During the second operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator 406 during operation above the threshold level for real-time energy supply to the associated power receiver 402 can be provided to the associated power receiver 402 via an energy converter (e.g., inverter 434). Alternating between the first operation mode and the second operation mode can allow the energy generated at the sub-threshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

[0170] Fig.15A flow chart of an exemplary process 1500 for coordinated braking of multiple geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, process 1500 can be executed by at least one processor (e.g., processor 428 and / or processor 512) to perform the operations or functions described herein. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1500 can be implemented as software (e.g., program code or instructions) stored in a memory (e.g., memory 430 and / or memory 514) or a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1500 can be implemented as hardware (e.g., dedicated circuitry). In some embodiments, process 1500 can be implemented as a combination of software and hardware.

[0171] refer to Fig.15 , process 1500 includes step 1502, receiving a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by an energy generator. By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.13 In the embodiment, at least one processor 512 may receive a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by the energy generator 406 from the voltage sensor 1310 .

[0172] Process 1500 includes step 1504 of comparing the received indicator to a threshold associated with supplying energy to an associated power receiver in real time. By way of non-limiting example, Fig.13 In the embodiment, at least one processor 512 may compare the received indicator with a threshold value stored in the memory 514. The threshold value may be associated with supplying energy to the associated power receiver 402 in real time.

[0173] The process 1500 includes a step 1506 of controlling a controllable switch based on the comparison, wherein the controllable switch is configured to alternately switch between a first operation mode and a second operation mode, wherein in the first operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a subthreshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to the associated power receiver in real time is stored in at least one energy storage component, and during the second operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation above the threshold level that is used to supply energy to the associated power receiver in real time is provided to the associated power receiver via the energy converter, and wherein the alternate switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode allows the energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected and intermittently used. By way of non-limiting example, in the second operation mode, the energy generated by the energy generator during operation above the threshold level that is used to supply energy to the associated power receiver in real time is provided to the associated power receiver via the energy converter. Fig.13 In the embodiment, at least one processor 512 can control the controllable switch 1314 based on the comparison. The controllable switch 1314 can alternately switch between the first operation mode and the second operation mode. In the first operation mode, the energy generated by the energy generator 406 during the operation at the sub-threshold level, which is insufficient to supply energy to the associated power receiver 402 in real time (e.g., Figure 4) is stored in at least one energy storage component 1322. During the second operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator 406 during operation above the threshold level for real-time supply of energy to the associated power receiver 402 can be provided to the associated power receiver 402 via an energy converter (e.g., inverter 434). Alternating between the first operating mode and the second operating mode can allow the energy generated at the sub-threshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

[0174] Some power receivers (e.g., a grid and / or a battery pack) and / or components (e.g., an inverter) may need to comply with one or more standards and / or specifications. For example, a grid and / or an inverter connected thereto may require 60 Hz, 120 V or 50 Hz, 120 V power. However, an energy generator operating under conditions of unstable fluid flow may produce a variable energy output that may not comply with a target output voltage level associated with the energy receiver. Disclosed embodiments are used to control the total output voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines to achieve a consistent target voltage (a specific value or a value within a specific acceptable range), such as when operating under variable fluid conditions.

[0175] A system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium for controlling a total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines are disclosed. Such a control system may include at least one processor configured to: receive a target voltage level for the cluster of fluid turbines; receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in the cluster, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is lower than the target voltage level; and output a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers based on the received indication of the DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, wherein each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at the target voltage level, so that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

[0176] Some embodiments relate to a total voltage controller for a fluid turbine cluster. A fluid turbine cluster may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, the fluid turbine cluster is a wind turbine. For example, a plurality of wind turbines, each associated with an energy generator, may convert wind (e.g., airflow) into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the fluid turbine cluster is a hydro turbine. For example, a plurality of water turbines, each connected to an energy generator, may convert a river or ocean current (e.g., water flow) into electrical energy. The sum may include combining, accumulating, and / or adding, such as forming a whole from several individual quantities. The total voltage may refer to a voltage signal generated by combining and / or adding a plurality of voltage signals. The voltage signals may be combined in series and / or in parallel. The parallel combined voltage signal may require that each signal conform to substantially the same voltage level. Therefore, the parallel combined voltage signal may require increasing and / or decreasing one or more individual voltage signals to reach a target voltage level (e.g., using one or more DC-DC converters, voltage regulators, and / or boosters). The controller may include an electronic device configured to send signals to and receive signals from the system in order to monitor, regulate, manage and / or adjust one or more operating parameters of the system. In some embodiments, the controller may include one or more feedback loops that allow receiving an indication of the system operating parameters and outputting one or more control signals based on the received indication to adjust the system operating parameters, such as real-time adjustment. For example, the controller may receive an indication of a voltage level and use the indication to determine a signal for transmitting to a braking system of a fluid turbine to adjust the voltage level. A total voltage controller for a fluid turbine cluster includes a circuit for controlling the voltage output from a plurality of fluid turbines. The structure and components included in such circuits may vary depending on the system design. For example, the total voltage controller may include one or more processors, memories, detectors and / or sensors, braking circuits, switches, rectifiers, DC-DC converters, capacitors, inverters, batteries and / or any other devices and / or components that may be used as part of a control to totalize the voltage output of a fluid turbine cluster. Some such controllers may omit the components listed above, or may add additional components to achieve the function of total voltage control. For example, at least one processor may execute instructions for monitoring, regulating, managing, and / or adjusting one or more operating parameters that affect the total voltage output of the cluster of fluid turbines. For example, at least one processor may receive signals associated with operating parameters of the cluster of fluid turbines from one or more detectors, use the received signals to determine control signals for adjusting one or more (e.g., the same and / or different) operating parameters, and transmit the control signals to circuits associated with each fluid turbine.

[0177] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 3In FIG. 3 , the circuit 310 may be used as an overall voltage controller for the cluster 300 of fluid turbines 100A-100C. By way of another non-limiting example, in Figure 4 In FIG. 4 , the interconnect circuit 414 may be used as an overall voltage controller for the cluster 401 of geographically associated fluid turbines 404 (eg, fluid turbines 404A and 404B). Figure 1 In the embodiment, the fluid turbine 404 may include the wind turbine 100, 102 and / or any one of 106 to 112 , and / or hydro turbine 104 .

[0178] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to receive a target voltage level for a fluid turbine cluster. At least one processor may be understood as described elsewhere in the present disclosure. Receiving (e.g., receiving) may be understood in the manner described elsewhere in the present disclosure. The target voltage level may include a desired and / or expected voltage level, for example, configured to meet one or more goals and / or objectives. For example, the target voltage level may be selected to comply with one or more standards and / or specifications associated with an electrical energy receiver (e.g., a power grid, an inverter associated therewith, a battery pack, and / or an electrical appliance). Thus, the target voltage level for a fluid turbine cluster may refer to the desired or expected power output of the fluid turbine cluster. At least one processor may receive a target voltage level for a fluid turbine cluster, for example, from a memory. In some embodiments, at least one processor may receive a target voltage level from another processor, a sensor, and / or a device via a communication channel. In some embodiments, at least one centralized processor associated with the entire fluid turbine cluster may receive the target voltage. In some embodiments, multiple processors (each processor dedicated to a different fluid turbine) may receive a target voltage level for a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, the target voltage level may remain constant over time (e.g., corresponding to the specification of a power grid that may remain constant). In some embodiments, the target voltage level may vary over time, for example based on supply and demand, one or more specifications associated with one or more energy storage components, and / or or any other criteria for determining the target voltage level.

[0179] In some embodiments, the target voltage level corresponds to a charging voltage level for an associated battery. The charging voltage level for an associated battery may include a voltage used to charge the battery, an amount of voltage provided by the battery when the battery is fully (e.g., or nearly fully) charged, and / or an amount of voltage available to a charged (e.g., or partially charged) battery. In some cases, in order to shorten the battery charging time, and / or to compensate for energy loss due to leakage and / or heat, a voltage higher than the battery capacity may be used to charge the battery. For example, a 12V battery may be charged using a voltage of 13V to permit the charging reaction to proceed at a higher rate. In some embodiments, the target voltage level is between 14V and 15V. For example, 14-15V may be a typical voltage range used when charging a 12 volt battery system, such as within a given time frame and / or or to compensate for losses. In some embodiments, the target output voltage level is a range that varies based on a threshold voltage of an associated inverter. A range may include a span, amplitude, and / or value range, such as between an upper limit and / or Or lower limit. The range of variation may refer to a range having one or more adjustable or changeable limits (e.g., upper and / or lower limits), thereby allowing multiple values ​​covered by the range to change. The threshold value may be understood in the manner described elsewhere in the present disclosure. The threshold voltage may refer to a reference (e.g., lower limit) voltage level, above which a current may begin to flow from a current source to a current drain, and / or a minimum voltage level at which a conductive path is established between a current source and a current drain. The threshold voltage of an inverter may refer to a reference voltage level, above which the inverter operates. For example, an inverter may not operate at a voltage level below the threshold voltage, or may operate suboptimally (e.g., inefficiently).

[0180] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In, at least one processor 428 may receive a target voltage level for cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404. For example, in Figure 4 In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 may receive the target voltage from the memory 430 and / or from another device and / or processor via the I / O 442. As another example, in Figure 5514, the at least one processor 512 may receive a target voltage level for the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404A and 404B from the memory 514, and may transmit the target voltage level to the at least one processor 428 via the I / O 516. In some embodiments, the target voltage level for the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 may be associated with one or more specifications and / or standards associated with the inverter 434. For example, the inverter 434 may convert the total DC power output by the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 into an AC power signal 722 to be fed to the grid 718, and the target voltage level may correspond to a voltage requirement associated with the grid 718. In some embodiments, the at least one processor 428 may receive a target voltage for the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404A and 404B associated with the battery pack 720. For example, such a target voltage may be between 14V and 15V to comply with one or more specifications and / or standards associated with the battery pack 720.

[0181] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster. Rectifiers may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. A plurality of rectifiers associated with different fluid turbines in a cluster may include a rectifier dedicated to each fluid turbine in the cluster (e.g., via a dedicated high-power transmission line or cable), such that the number of rectifiers corresponds to the number of fluid turbines. Each fluid turbine in a plurality of rectifiers associated with different fluid turbines in a cluster may allow each AC power output of each fluid turbine to be independently converted into a separate DC signal. For example, a changing fluid condition may have different effects on at least some of the fluid turbines in a cluster, thereby causing at least some of the fluid turbines to produce different AC power outputs. Each rectifier may convert each AC power output into a DC signal individually, thereby allowing the DC signal to be combined into a total DC power output of the cluster. In some embodiments, a centralized processor associated with the entire fluid turbine cluster may receive. In some embodiments, a plurality of processors, each associated with a plurality of processors.

[0182] The DC voltage associated with the fluid turbine may include an AC voltage generated by an energy generator associated with the fluid turbine and converted to a DC signal via an associated rectifier. The indication of the DC voltage may include a measurement and / or signal (e.g., an analog or digital signal) associated with the DC voltage. The indication of the DC voltage may include, for example, one or more of an on / off signal indicating the presence / absence of the DC voltage, a measurement (e.g., a numerical value) indicating the DC voltage level, a signal (e.g., yes / no) indicating whether the DC voltage meets one or more benchmarks, thresholds, and / or operating ranges, and / or any other signal conveying information associated with the DC voltage. In some embodiments, the DC voltage associated with the fluid turbine may include a statistical measurement of the DC voltage over a period of time, for example, a mode, a maximum value, and / or a minimum DC voltage over a period of time. At least one processor may receive one or more indications of the DC voltage associated with the fluid turbine, for example, from a sensor associated with the output of the rectifier associated with the fluid turbine (e.g., via a wired and / or wireless communication channel). In some embodiments, at least one processor may receive multiple DC voltage measurements from a sensor associated with a fluid turbine over a period of time (e.g., at least 10 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 5 minutes, or any other period of time). At least one processor may calculate one or more statistical measurements based on the received DC voltage measurements to determine an indication of a DC voltage associated with the fluid turbine. In some embodiments, at least one centralized processor associated with the entire fluid turbine cluster may receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with at least some of the fluid turbines in the cluster. In some embodiments, at least one centralized processor associated with the entire fluid turbine cluster may receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster. In some embodiments, multiple processors (each processor dedicated to a different fluid turbine) may receive indications of DC voltage from different fluid turbines.

[0183] In some embodiments, the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is lower than the target voltage level. A DC voltage lower than the target voltage level may refer to a DC voltage lower than the expected or desired voltage level and / or a DC voltage that exceeds an acceptable voltage range (e.g., lower than the target voltage level and associated tolerance). In some embodiments, being lower than the target voltage level may include being lower than the target voltage for a minimum duration (e.g., at least 30 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 10 minutes, or at least any other time period). For example, when operating under low fluid velocity conditions, an energy generator associated with a fluid turbine may produce a voltage output (e.g., a DC signal converted from an AC electrical output) that is insufficient to meet the target voltage level. At least one processor may compare the target voltage level with each received DC voltage indication to identify any DC voltage indication lower than the target voltage level. Comparing the target voltage level with the received DC voltage indication may include performing one or more subtraction and / or division operations, such as to determine the difference and / or ratio between them. In some embodiments, at least one processor may determine that at least some of the fluid turbines in the turbine cluster may be associated with a DC voltage lower than the target voltage level. In some embodiments, at least one processor may determine that each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster may be associated with a DC voltage below a target voltage level, for example, when the entire fluid turbine cluster may be operating under low fluid flow conditions.

[0184] In some embodiments, at least one fluid turbine in the cluster having a DC voltage below a target level includes all fluid turbines in the cluster. All fluid turbines in the cluster may include each (e.g., each) fluid turbine in a cluster or a sub-cluster (e.g., including some fluid turbines in the cluster). For example, a low fluid velocity condition may affect the entire cluster of fluid turbines such that each fluid turbine in the cluster or sub-cluster may produce a DC voltage below a target level.

[0185] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 may receive an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine 404 via each rectifier 530 included in each charge controller 410 (eg, see Figure 4 , DC signals 412A and 412B flow from charge controllers 410A and 410B to circuit 414. For example, each charge controller 410A and 410B may be coupled to circuit 1300 (see Fig.13), the circuit 1300 includes a rectifier 530, a voltage sensor 1310, and at least one processor 512. For each fluid turbine 404 included in the cluster 401, each rectifier 530 can receive an AC electrical output 408 generated by a generator 406 associated with the fluid turbine 404. Each rectifier 530 can convert the AC power output 408 into a DC signal. The voltage sensor 1310 can sense the DC signal and transmit an indication of the DC voltage to the at least one processor 512. In some embodiments, each processor 512 dedicated to each fluid turbine 404 can transmit the DC voltage indication of each fluid turbine 404 to the at least one processor 428 via the I / O 516, thereby allowing the at least one processor 428 to receive the DC voltage indication of each fluid turbine 404 in the cluster 401.

[0186] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to output a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with a plurality of rectifiers based on an indication of a received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in a cluster. The DC-DC converter and rectifier may be understood as described elsewhere in the present disclosure. The DC-DC converter associated with the rectifier may include a DC-DC converter in electrical communication with the DC output of the rectifier, the DC-DC converter being configured to receive a DC signal from the rectifier, convert the DC signal from a first DC voltage level to a second DC voltage level, and output a DC signal of a second voltage level. For example, the DC-DC converter may be used as a booster and boost the DC output of the rectifier from a sub-target voltage level (e.g., due to low fluid velocity) to a target voltage level and / or a target voltage level and associated tolerances. Alternatively, the DC-DC converter may reduce the DC output of the rectifier from a voltage level higher than the target (e.g., due to high fluid velocity) to a target voltage level and / or a target voltage level and associated tolerances. In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter may be configured to receive a variable DC voltage signal and to promote the variable DC voltage signal to a fixed voltage level, so that the output of the DC-DC converter may be a variable boost DC signal. In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter may be configured to receive a variable DC voltage signal and to promote the variable DC voltage signal to a variable voltage level, so that the output of the DC-DC converter may be a fixed boost DC signal (e.g., corresponding to a target voltage level). In some embodiments, each DC-DC converter includes at least one booster or a voltage regulator. The booster (e.g., boost converter) may include a DC-DC converter whose output voltage is greater than the input (e.g., source) voltage. Since power must be saved, the output current of the booster may be lower than the input (source) current. The voltage regulator may include a device configured to ensure a stable (e.g., substantially constant) voltage supply under different operating conditions. The voltage regulator may adjust the voltage when power generation fluctuates (e.g., due to changes in fluid velocity) and / or when the load connected thereto changes. In order to ensure power saving, the adjustment of the voltage may cause a corresponding adjustment of the current.

[0187] Control signals may include signals (e.g., analog and / or digital) configured to cause an electronic component and / or device to operate in a particular manner. Control signals may activate or deactivate (e.g., turn on / off) an electronic component and / or device, and / or cause an electronic component or device to operate according to one of a plurality of operating modes. For example, the control signal can operate a switch to select a specific DC-DC converter from a plurality of DC-DC converters, so that a specific DC-DC converter increases (e.g., boosts) or decreases (e.g., bucks) a DC signal, and / or controls the amount of DC voltage that a specific DC-DC converter increases or decreases. Output (e.g., output) can include sending, transmitting, and / or providing, for example, a signal generated based on one or more calculations. Outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters (e.g., based on an indication of a received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine) can include calculating a specific control signal for each DC-DC converter based on an indication of a DC voltage associated with each DC-DC converter, and / or transmitting a specific control signal to each DC-DC converter via a separate communication channel. In some embodiments, at least one processor can output the same control signal to each DC-DC converter. In some embodiments, at least one processor can transmit the same control signal to at least some of a plurality of DC-DC converters. In some embodiments, at least one processor can transmit different control signals to each DC-DC converter. In some embodiments, outputting a control signal to each DC-DC converter may involve at least one processor outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of switches, each switch being configured to transfer a DC signal output by a rectifier associated with a particular fluid turbine to a particular DC-DC converter in a plurality of associated DC-DC converters. For example, each fluid turbine may be associated with a plurality of DC-DC converters, each DC-DC converter being associated with a different operating mode.

[0188] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, based on the indication of the received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine 404 in the cluster 401, at least one processor 428 can send a DC-DC converter 1316 and 1318 included in each charge controller 410 (see Fig.13 ) output control signal. In some embodiments, at least one of DC-DC converters 1316 and 1318 may include a booster (eg, booster 714) and / or a voltage regulator.

[0189] In some embodiments, each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal of a target voltage level so that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level. Adjustment may include control, modification and / or normalization (such as a signal) to meet one or more standards and / or regulations. The DC-DC converter may be adjusted using, for example, a digitally controlled voltage source (such as a digital-to-analog converter or DAC), a digitally adjustable resistor (such as a potentiometer), and / or by using pulse width modulation (PWM) to adjust the duty cycle of the voltage signal to change the average output signal. Generation may include generation, supply and / or output. The control signal configured to adjust the DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal of a target voltage level may include a control signal configured to adjust and / or modify the output voltage of the DC-DC converter to generate a DC signal whose voltage level substantially meets the target voltage level and / or substantially meets the target voltage level and the associated tolerance. Adjusting and / or modifying the output voltage of the DC-DC converter may cause the current corresponding to each output voltage to be associated with adjustment and / or modification. Combination (such as a signal) may include summing, adding, merging and / or integration. The parallel combination DC output signal may involve transmitting a plurality of individual DC signals simultaneously at substantially equal voltage potentials (e.g., target voltage levels) via a plurality of common wires, and merging the common wires to generate a total DC signal from the individual DC signals. Such a total DC signal may have a voltage level corresponding to the shared voltage potential on the common wires, and a current corresponding to the sum of the currents flowing on each common wire. Complying may include complying, complying, and / or adapting. The total DC voltage that complies with the target voltage level may include a DC voltage signal generated by combining a plurality of DC voltage signals in parallel, each DC voltage being substantially at the target voltage level, so that the combination of the DC voltage signals substantially matches the target DC voltage level. In some embodiments, the total DC voltage that complies with the target voltage may include a statistical measure (e.g., mode, mean, maximum, and / or minimum) of the total DC voltage that complies with the target voltage over a period of time (e.g., at least 10 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 5 minutes, or any other period of time) .

[0190] In some embodiments, each fluid turbine in the fleet of fluid turbines may generate an AC electrical output. Each rectifier associated with each fluid turbine may convert one of the AC electrical outputs into a DC signal. Each DC-DC converter may modify each DC signal to conform to a target voltage level, thereby allowing each DC signal to be combined in parallel. At least one processor may adjust each DC-DC converter over time to ensure a stable DC output even when the fluid turbine cluster operates under varying fluid conditions.

[0191] In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage meets the target voltage level by exceeding a threshold. Exceeding a threshold may refer to exceeding and / or crossing a threshold, for example, by preventing it from being below a critical point. In some embodiments, the threshold may correspond to the minimum voltage level required to achieve the target voltage level. The minimum voltage level may be determined based on a margin or interval above the target voltage level, for example, to compensate for energy losses (e.g., voltage drops) caused by heat, voltage leakage, and / or any other energy loss reasons. Therefore, the regulated total DC voltage exceeding the threshold (e.g., the minimum voltage required to reach the target voltage level) may meet the target voltage level after considering energy losses, voltage leakage, or other losses. In some embodiments, exceeding a threshold may include the shortest duration exceeding a threshold (e.g., at least 10 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 5 minutes, or any other time period). In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage exceeding a threshold may include a statistical measurement associated with a total DC voltage (e.g., mode, mean, moving mean, maximum, and / or minimum) exceeding a threshold over a period of time.

[0192] In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage complies with the target voltage level by being maintained below a threshold. Maintaining below a threshold may refer to being limited and / or contained by a threshold, for example, by preventing a threshold from being exceeded. In some embodiments, the threshold may correspond to a maximum voltage that achieves the target threshold. For example, the threshold may be associated with one or more safety rules, for example, to prevent overheating, or to prevent the gassing voltage of a battery associated with an undesirable chemical reaction from being reached. Therefore, the regulated total DC voltage maintained below the threshold may comply with the target voltage level that complies with one or more safety regulations. In some embodiments, the target voltage level may be associated with a voltage range including a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold. For example, an inverter, a battery, and / or a power grid may be associated with a voltage high limit or an upper limit. At least one processor may output a control signal to a plurality of DC-DC converters to keep the total DC voltage within a certain range, for example, above a minimum threshold and below a maximum threshold. In some embodiments, remaining below a threshold may include remaining below a threshold for a minimum duration (e.g., at least 10 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 5 minutes, or any other time period). In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage remaining below a threshold may include a statistical measure associated with the total DC voltage remaining below a threshold over a period of time (eg, a mode, an average, a moving average, a maximum, and / or a minimum).

[0193] In some embodiments, the adjusted total DC voltage meets the target voltage level by being maintained within a predefined range of the target output voltage level over time. Maintaining within the predefined range of the target output voltage level may refer to being maintained within an upper threshold and a lower threshold associated with the target output voltage level, for example, not exceeding the upper limit, while also not falling below the lower limit. Maintaining within the predefined range of the target output voltage level over time may include one or more of the following: preventing the maximum voltage over a period of time from exceeding the upper limit of the range associated with the target output voltage, preventing the minimum voltage over a period of time from falling below the lower limit of the range associated with the target output voltage, and / or preventing the average and / or mode of the voltage level over a period of time from exceeding the upper limit of the range associated with the target output voltage and / or falling below the lower limit of the range associated with the target output voltage. In some embodiments, remaining within the predefined range may include remaining within the predefined range for a minimum duration (e.g., at least 10 seconds, at least 1 minute, at least 5 minutes, or any other time period). In some embodiments, maintaining the adjusted total DC voltage within the predefined range may include statistical measurements associated with the total DC voltage (e.g., mode, average, moving average, maximum, and / or minimum) remaining below a threshold over a period of time.

[0194] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In each charging controller 410, each DC-DC converter 1316 and / or 1318 (see Fig.13 ) can generate a DC output signal at a target voltage level such that combining each DC output signal in parallel (e.g., see the parallel outputs of each charge controller 410 converged at inverter 434) produces a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level. In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage can meet the target voltage level by exceeding a threshold. In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage can meet the target voltage level by remaining below a threshold. In some embodiments, the regulated total DC voltage can meet the target voltage level by remaining within a predefined range of the target output voltage level over time.

[0195] Some embodiments relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for controlling a total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines. The operations may include: receiving a target voltage level for the cluster of fluid turbines; receiving an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is lower than the target voltage level; and based on the received indication of the DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers, wherein each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to produce a DC output signal at the target voltage level, such that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to produce a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

[0196] Fig.16 A flow chart of an exemplary process 1600 for coordinated braking of multiple geographically associated fluid turbines consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, process 1600 can be executed by at least one processor (e.g., processor 428 and / or processor 512) to perform the operations or functions described herein. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1600 can be implemented as software (e.g., program code or instructions) stored in a memory (e.g., memory 430 and / or memory 514) or a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1600 can be implemented as hardware (e.g., dedicated circuitry). In some embodiments, process 1600 can be implemented as a combination of software and hardware.

[0197] refer to Fig.16 , process 1600 includes step 1602 of receiving a target voltage level for a fluid turbine cluster. By way of non-limiting example, Figure 7 In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 can receive a target voltage level for cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404. For example, at least one processor 428 can receive a target voltage level for cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 from memory 430 (see Figure 4 ) and / or receiving a target voltage from a device and / or processor associated with grid 718.

[0198] Process 1600 includes step 1604 of receiving a DC voltage indication associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in a cluster of fluid turbines. A DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is below a target voltage level. By way of non-limiting example, at Figure 7In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 may receive a DC voltage indication associated with each fluid turbine 404 via a plurality of rectifiers 530 (eg, see Figure 4 , DC signals 412A and 412B), each rectifier 530 is associated with a different fluid turbine 404 in the fluid turbine cluster 401. At least one DC voltage associated with one of the fluid turbines 404 may be below a target voltage level.

[0199] Process 1600 includes step 1606 of outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with a plurality of rectifiers based on an indication of a received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, wherein each control signal is configured to regulate each DC-DC converter to produce a DC output signal at a target voltage level such that combining each DC output signal in parallel produces a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level. By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 may output a control signal to each charge controller 410 based on an indication of a received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine 404 in the cluster 401. Each charge controller 410 may include DC-DC converters 1316 and 1318 (eg, see Fig.13 ). For example, the control signal can be configured to select one of the DC-DC converters 1316 or 1318 via the controllable switch 1314 and adjust the selected DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at a target output voltage level. Combining each DC output signal in parallel can generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level. For example, the target voltage can correspond to the operating voltage of the inverter 434 and can allow the total DC voltage to be converted to an AC power output suitable for feeding into the grid 718.

[0200] At low wind speeds, the electrical energy generated by the clustered fluid turbines may not meet grid power standards. An inverter associated with at least one processor (e.g., a smart inverter) can prevent power that does not meet grid standards from entering the grid. Instead, at least one processor can redirect the electrical power to be stored in a battery in an off-grid mode. In some cases, a smart inverter can manage and control the power generated by a group of fluid turbines. For example, a smart inverter can control the loads on multiple turbines via multiple associated charge controllers. Controlling the loads can make the power generated by multiple fluid turbines meet grid power standards.

[0201] Some embodiments relate to an inverter for transmitting power from a fluid turbine cluster to a power grid. The inverter, power source, fluid turbine cluster, and power grid may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Transmission may include delivery, supply, and / or transmission. An inverter for transmitting power from a fluid turbine cluster to a power grid may include: an inverter configured to receive a total DC voltage associated with the fluid turbine cluster, convert the total DC voltage to an AC voltage compatible with the power grid, and transmit the AC voltage compatible with the power grid to the power grid.

[0202] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 Inverter 434 can transmit the power generated by cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 to grid 718. For example, each charge controller 410 associated with each fluid turbine 404 can include rectifier 530. Each rectifier 530 can convert AC power output 408 into a DC power signal (see Figure 4 The inverter 434 may convert the DC power signal into an AC power signal 722 for transmission to the grid 718.

[0203] Some embodiments relate to a circuit configured to receive a DC voltage via a rectifier associated with each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster, so that multiple DC voltages from different fluid turbines are received and aggregated. Circuits, rectifiers, fluid turbines, fluid turbine clusters, and DC voltages may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Different fluid turbines may refer to separate fluid turbines, each fluid turbine operating separately to generate electrical energy from a fluid flow. In some embodiments, the circuit may be associated with one or more charge controllers (e.g., may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure). In some embodiments, the circuit may include a separate circuit dedicated to each different fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster (e.g., each dedicated circuit may include a dedicated charge controller). In some embodiments, the circuit may include a circuit associated with a fluid turbine cluster (or sub-cluster) (e.g., the circuit may include a single charge controller associated with at least some fluid turbines in the fluid turbine cluster). In some embodiments, the circuit may include a circuit dedicated to each different separate fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster and a circuit associated with each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster. The rectifier associated with each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster may include multiple rectifiers, each rectifier dedicated to a different fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster, thereby allowing each AC voltage generated by each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster to be independently and simultaneously (e.g., in parallel) converted to a DC voltage.

[0204] Receiving a DC voltage may include acquiring, accepting a transmission, or otherwise acquiring a DC voltage. Multiple DC voltages from different fluid turbines may include separate DC voltages generated (e.g., simultaneously) by each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster (e.g., via an associated rectifier) ​​in response to exposure to a fluid flow. The total DC voltage may include DC voltages that are combined, accumulated, and / or added together, such as to form a whole from several separate quantities. A circuit configured to receive a DC voltage via a rectifier associated with each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster may include a circuit electrically connected to a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster, thereby allowing the circuit to receive multiple DC voltage signals, for example, simultaneously and / or in parallel. Receiving and aggregating multiple DC voltages from different fluid turbines may refer to a circuit configured to combine or add each DC voltage generated by each fluid turbine in a fluid turbine cluster to produce a net DC voltage or a total DC voltage. In some embodiments, the circuit may receive multiple DC voltages in parallel (e.g., each DC voltage may conform to a common DC voltage associated with each rectifier) ​​such that the combined multiple DC voltages produce a total voltage at the common DC voltage. And the total voltage has a current corresponding to the sum of currents of each of the plurality of DC voltages.

[0205] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 4 , the interconnection circuit 414 may be connected via a rectifier 530 (eg, See also Figure 5 ) receives DC signals 412A and 412B, wherein rectifier 530 is included in each charge controller 410A and 410B, each charge controller being associated with each fluid turbine 404A and 404B in fluid turbine group 401. Interconnection circuit 414 can receive and aggregate multiple DC signals 412A and 412B from different fluid turbines 404A and 404B. By way of another non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , 9 In FIG. 11 , the circuits 700 , 900 , 1000 , and 1100 may aggregate the plurality of DC signals 412 output by the plurality of rectifiers 530 into a total DC voltage 726 . Each rectifier 530 may be associated with a different fluid turbine 404 in the fluid turbine cluster 401 .

[0206] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to: confirm that the connection with the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. The at least one processor may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may be associated with a charge controller. The connection with the power grid may include a portion of a circuit that allows an AC signal to be merged with an AC signal of the power grid. The connection with the power grid may include one or more devices (e.g., at least one of a processor, a switch, an inverter, a booster, a load, a battery, a brake detection circuit, a boost circuit, a shunt resistor, a capacitor, an inductor, and a rated contact) and / or one or more conductive channels (e.g., at least one wire and / or cable) configured to transmit a flow of electrical energy from an electrical energy source (e.g., a fluid turbine cluster) to the power grid. In some embodiments, the inverter may include a connection to the power grid. Predetermined may refer to defined and / or established in advance. Predetermined operating parameters may include variables, attributes, and / or settings that are pre-established and associated with providing electrical energy to the power grid. In some cases, the operating parameters may be associated with one or more operating parameters of the fluid turbine (e.g., fluid flow rate, rotor speed, blade tip speed, blade pitch, blade yaw, blade swing and / or vibration, shaft swing and / or vibration, power output, generator temperature and / or load), thereby affecting the AC signal generated by the fluid turbine for feeding into the grid. For example, changing fluid conditions may cause the fluid turbine to generate an inconsistent AC signal that may not conform to one or more operating parameters associated with providing electrical energy to the grid. In some embodiments, the predetermined operating parameters may be associated with a power signal flowing in the grid. In some embodiments, the predetermined parameters may include operating parameters of an inverter configured to provide AC power to the grid. Compliance (e.g., compliance) may include complying with, complying with, and / or Confirmation (e.g., validation) may include verification, establishment, and / or confirmation. For example, before allowing electrical energy to flow to the grid via the connection, at least one processor may verify and / or determine whether the connection to the grid complies with at least one operating parameter, such as a voltage and / or current rating of the grid and / or an associated inverter.

[0207] Impedance may refer to the resistance of an AC signal produced by the combined effects of resistance and reactance (e.g., including capacitance and / or inductance). Impedance may include amplitude and phase properties. Impedance mismatch in an AC circuit may cause power transfer loss or signal reflection. In some cases, in order to maximize power transfer and / or minimize energy loss due to interference and / or signal reflection, it may be necessary to match the impedance of the circuit associated with the AC voltage generated by the fluid turbine cluster with the impedance of the power grid. Such matching may need to occur at the connection between the circuit associated with the fluid turbine cluster and the power grid. Matching impedance may include conjugate matching (e.g., matching the output impedance of the source with the complex conjugate of the input impedance of the power grid) and / or reflection-free matching (e.g., matching the source impedance with the impedance of the power grid). Therefore, in some embodiments, confirming compliance with at least one operating parameter may include matching the impedance of the circuit associated with the fluid turbine cluster with the impedance of the power grid.

[0208] In some embodiments, at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid frequency. The grid frequency may refer to the number of cycles of an AC signal flowing through the grid per unit time (e.g., per second). In some embodiments, the grid frequency may correspond to 60 Hz or 50 Hz. Introducing an AC voltage with a frequency that does not match the frequency associated with the grid (e.g., a frequency other than 60 Hz or 50 Hz) may result in an impedance mismatch between a circuit associated with the fluid turbine cluster and the grid, resulting in energy loss. For example, the frequency mismatch may result in destructive interference between the AC voltage generated by the fluid turbine cluster and the AC voltage associated with the grid. At least one processor may confirm that the connection to the grid complies with the grid frequency, for example, to prevent energy loss due to an AC frequency mismatch.

[0209] In some embodiments, at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid phase. Grid phase may refer to a specific stage or position within a cycle of an AC voltage of a grid, such as at a certain point in time, and may be measured in degrees, radians, minutes, and / or seconds. For example, half of a cycle may correspond to a 180° phase, and a quarter of a cycle may correspond to a 90° phase. Grid phase may indicate when the AC voltage reaches a peak or trough. Introducing an AC voltage generated by a fluid turbine cluster having a phase that does not match the phase associated with the grid may cause an impedance mismatch between a circuit associated with the fluid turbine cluster and the grid, resulting in energy loss. For example, combining two AC signals with mismatched phases may produce destructive interference (e.g., cancellation due to coincidence of signal peaks with signal troughs). At least one processor may confirm that the connection to the grid is consistent with the grid phase, for example, to prevent energy loss due to phase mismatch.

[0210] In some embodiments, at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid voltage. Voltage may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Grid voltage may refer to a voltage associated with a grid. In some embodiments, the grid voltage may correspond to 110V, 220V, or 240V. The introduction of an AC voltage generated by a fluid turbine cluster that does not match the voltage associated with the grid may cause an impedance mismatch between a circuit associated with the fluid turbine cluster and the grid, resulting in signal reflections, which may result in energy loss. At least one processor may confirm that the connection to the grid complies with the grid voltage, for example, to prevent energy loss due to signal reflections. In some embodiments, the grid voltage may correspond to an operating range of an associated inverter, and the grid connection complying with at least one predetermined operating parameter may ensure that the voltage level of the total DC voltage falls within the operating range of the inverter.

[0211] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 Inverter 434 may include a connection to grid 718, This allows electrical energy to flow from generator 406 through circuit 700 to grid 718. At least one processor 428 can confirm that the connection to grid 718 via inverter 434 meets at least one predetermined operating parameter. Fig.14 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one predetermined operator can be associated with a grid voltage (e.g., see y-axis 1402), a grid frequency (e.g., see the number of cycles per time unit along x-axis 1404), and / or a grid phase (e.g., see the time interval 1406 of the cycle peaks, indicating the phase).

[0212] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor being configured to permit inversion of the total DC voltage into an AC voltage compatible with the grid and permitting output of the AC voltage to the grid when confirming that the grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. Confirming that the grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter may involve at least one processor receiving one or more indications associated with the AC signal generated by a plurality of fluid turbines, comparing the received indications with one or more attributes associated with the grid, and determining compliance based on the comparison. For example, at least one processor may use one or more received indications to calculate an impedance associated with the AC signal for feeding into the grid, and compare the calculated impedance with the impedance associated with the grid. If the calculated impedance matches the grid impedance, the at least one processor may confirm that the grid connection complies with at least one operating parameter. As another example, at least one processor may use one or more received indications associated with the AC signal generated by the fluid turbine cluster to confirm compliance with one or more safety rules (e.g., current and / or voltage limits) associated with the grid. As yet another example, at least one processor may determine that the AC signal generated by the fluid turbine cluster complies with the operating range of the inverter to confirm performance of at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0213] The total DC voltage may include a combination of multiple DC voltages, each DC voltage generated by a different fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster. The DC voltages may be aggregated in series (e.g., where each voltage may be added and the current may remain constant) or in parallel (e.g., where the voltage may be common to all signals and the current may be added). Compatibility may include suitability, matching, and / or consistency. An AC voltage that is compatible with an AC voltage of a power grid may include an AC voltage that complies with one or more standards and / or regulations associated with the power grid. Such standards and / or regulations may include, for example, ensuring impedance matching between the AC voltage and the power grid (e.g., to prevent losses due to interference and / or reflections), ensuring compliance with one or more safety regulations, and / or Or ensure compliance with the operating range of the inverter (e.g., to prevent energy loss). To permit (e.g., to permit) may include to allow or permit. Permitting the inversion of the total DC voltage to an AC voltage compatible with the power grid may include establishing a connection between the total DC voltage generated by the fluid turbine cluster and the DC input of the inverter, thereby allowing the inverter to convert the total DC input voltage to an AC output voltage. Permitting the output of the AC voltage to the power grid may involve allowing electrical energy to flow from the AC output of the inverter associated with the fluid turbine cluster and the power grid (e.g., by establishing a circuit between the source and receiver of the AC signal). For example, in response to confirming that the power grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, at least one processor may operate a switch to establish a connection between the total DC voltage generated by the fluid turbine cluster and the DC input of the inverter. The inverter may include an AC output connected to the power grid, so that operating the switch can complete the circuit to permit electrical energy to flow to the power grid through the inverter. Therefore, completing the circuit can allow the inverter to convert the total DC voltage to an AC output, which can then be fed to the power grid.

[0214] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , at least one processor 428 may confirm whether the connection to the grid 718 via the inverter 434 complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter (e.g., voltage and current ratings and the phase of the grid 718). At least one processor 428 may permit the inversion of the total DC voltage 726 into the AC power signal 722. For example, at least one processor 428 may operate the plurality of switches 1314 (e.g., see Fig.13 ). Each switch 1314 may be associated with a different rectifier 530 and may allow an electrical connection to be established between each rectifier 530 and the inverter 434 (e.g., via the DC-DC converter 1318). The at least one processor 428 may operate the plurality of switches 1314 to establish a plurality of electrical connections between each rectifier 530 and the inverter 434, such that each DC signal 412 output by each rectifier 530 flows to the inverter 434 (e.g., via the DC-DC converter 1318) and is combined (e.g., connected in parallel) to become a total DC voltage 726. The total DC voltage 726 may flow to the DC input of the inverter 434, and the inverter 434 may convert the total DC voltage 726 into an AC power signal 722 (e.g., voltage) that is compatible with the power grid 718.

[0215] Some embodiments involve preventing the output of the AC voltage to the grid when the grid connection is not confirmed to comply with at least one predetermined operating parameter. Failure to confirm that the grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter may involve at least one processor determining a mismatch between an impedance associated with the AC signal generated by the fluid turbine cluster and an impedance of the grid, the AC signal not complying with one or more safety regulations associated with the grid, and / or Or the AC signal does not conform to the operating range of the inverter. Preventing may include blocking, avoiding, thwarting and / or intercepting. Preventing the AC voltage from being output to the grid may involve blocking the conversion of the DC voltage to the AC voltage to be fed to the grid and / or diverting the AC voltage out of the grid. For example, at least one processor may operate a switch to divert the DC signal away from the DC input of the inverter, and / or divert the AC voltage output by the inverter to an energy receiver other than the grid (e.g., to a load shed, an appliance and / or any other AC voltage receiver).

[0216] In some embodiments, preventing the AC voltage from being output to the grid includes preventing the total DC voltage from being converted to an AC voltage. As previously described, the term "prevent" may include obstructing, hindering, and / or blocking. Thus, preventing the total DC voltage from being converted to an AC voltage may include cutting off the connection between the total DC voltage and the input of the inverter and / or transferring the total DC voltage to an electrical power receiver other than the inverter connected to the grid. For example, in response to determining that the grid connection meets at least one predetermined operating parameter, at least one processor may disconnect the total DC voltage generated by the fluid turbine cluster from the DC input of the inverter by operating a switch, thereby preventing the total DC voltage from being converted to an AC voltage. In some embodiments, operating the switch in this way may cause the total DC voltage to be directed to an energy storage component, such as a battery pack.

[0217] In some embodiments, when the grid connection is not confirmed to be compliant, at least one processor is also configured to allow energy storage in off-grid mode. Allowing energy storage may refer to allowing the energy generated in the first time period to be captured for use in a subsequent time period. This energy can be stored in an energy storage element (such as a capacitor or a battery) in DC mode. Off-grid mode may refer to the operation and / or function of a system that is independent of and / or separated from the grid. For example, in off-grid mode, the energy generated by the fluid turbine cluster can be delivered to an energy receiver outside the grid. Energy storage in off-grid mode may include accumulating DC energy in one or more energy storage components (such as one or more batteries and / or capacitors) that can operate independently of the grid. Energy storage in off-grid mode may include preventing the total DC voltage from being converted to an AC voltage and storing the total DC voltage as electrical energy. At least one processor may allow the total DC voltage to be transferred from the DC input of the inverter to the DC input of the energy storage component by operating a switch, thereby achieving energy storage in off-grid mode. In some embodiments, off-grid mode involves storing energy in a battery. The battery can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The at least one processor may operate a switch such that the total DC voltage flows to a DC input of the battery, thereby allowing the battery to be charged using the total DC voltage.

[0218] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7In the embodiment of the present invention, when it is not possible to confirm that the connection with the power grid 718 (via the inverter 434) meets at least one predetermined operating parameter, the at least one processor 428 can prevent the AC power signal 722 from flowing to the power grid 718. For example, the at least one processor 428 can operate the plurality of switches 1314 (see Fig.13 ) to prevent each DC output of each rectifier 530 from flowing to the inverter 434, thereby preventing the total DC voltage 726 from being converted into an AC voltage (e.g., AC power signal 722) via the inverter 434.

[0219] In some embodiments, at least one processor is further configured to adjust each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster so that the grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. Adjusting the fluid turbine may include one or more of the following operations: receiving measurements associated with one or more operating parameters of the fluid turbine, determining a signal to adjust the one or more operating parameters based on the one or more measurements, and / or transmitting a signal for adjusting one or more operating parameters of the fluid turbine (e.g., as feedback in an iterative process so that one or more operating parameters of the fluid turbine converge to a baseline or threshold level). For example, at least one processor may transmit a signal to activate and / or deactivate a braking system associated with the fluid turbine, thereby adjusting the fluid turbine. As another example, at least one processor may transmit a signal to transfer at least a portion of the electrical energy output of the fluid turbine to a load (e.g., unloading a load), thereby adjusting the fluid turbine. Adjusting each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster may include at least one processor transmitting a signal to each fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster to adjust each fluid turbine.

[0220] In some embodiments, regulating each fluid turbine includes controlling the load on each fluid turbine. Control may include one or more of monitoring, measuring, adjusting, and / or coordinating. The load on the fluid turbine may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Controlling the load may involve at least one processor increasing the load to slow the rotation of the fluid turbine, or reducing the load to increase the rotation speed of the fluid turbine. For example, at least one processor may increase or decrease the load within a limited time period to adjust the phase of the AC voltage generated by the fluid turbine so that the connection to the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. As another example, at least one processor may increase or decrease the load over an extended period of time to adjust the frequency and / or voltage of the AC voltage generated by the fluid turbine so that the connection to the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0221] In some embodiments, controlling the load on each fluid turbine includes controlling a brake associated with each fluid turbine. The brake may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Controlling the brake associated with the fluid turbine may include at least one processor adjusting a brake circuit configured to engage or disengage one or more brakes, and / or being configured to adjust the level of engagement or disengagement of one or more brakes (e.g., to allow partial braking). In some embodiments, each brake is electrically activated. An electrically activated brake may refer to a brake that engages in response to a transmitted electronic signal. Such a signal may be transmitted, for example, via at least one processor. In some embodiments, an electrically activated brake may be associated with a charge controller. An electrically activated brake may include an electronic brake and / or a mechanical brake. An electronic brake may include a circuit configured to (e.g., at least partially) connect and / or disconnect a fluid turbine from an electrical load. In some embodiments, each brake is mechanical. The mechanical brake may include a device configured to introduce a physical object (e.g., one or more shims, disks, and / or drums) as an obstacle to motion, for example, by increasing friction to decelerate a rotating shaft, rotating blades, and / or a rotating rotor associated with the fluid turbine. The at least one processor may control the mechanical brake by transmitting an electronic signal to an associated mechanical brake circuit that is configured to (e.g., at least partially) engage or disengage the mechanical brake.

[0222] In some embodiments, each brake includes a circuit for shunting a generator winding. The generator winding may include one or more coils of electrical conductors (e.g., copper wire) configured to induce an AC signal when exposed to a fluctuating magnetic field (e.g., in an electrical energy generator). Shunting may refer to diverting, such as creating an alternative path. Shunting a generator winding may include diverting current away from a conductive winding of an energy generator, such as to an unloaded load. Shunting an energy generator winding may allow energy to leave the generator system, thereby slowing the rotation of the rotor (e.g., thereby reducing kinetic energy to maintain energy conservation). A brake including a circuit for shunting a generator winding may include a switch that allows at least some current to be diverted out of the generator winding (e.g., to the unloaded load) and / or at least some current to be diverted to the generator winding (e.g., away from the unloaded load). For example, increasing the load of a fluid turbine by diverting current away from the generator winding may remove electrical energy from the fluid turbine system. To maintain the law of conservation of energy, the removal of electrical energy may result in a corresponding reduction in kinetic energy, thereby slowing the rotation of the energy generator and the associated fluid turbine. Electrical energy may be added to the fluid turbine system by diverting current to the generator windings to reduce the load on the fluid turbine. To maintain energy conservation, the added energy may result in a corresponding increase in kinetic energy, thereby increasing the rotation of the energy generator and the associated fluid turbine. At least one processor may control the amount of current diverted to or from the generator windings by controlling associated switches, thereby controlling the load and associated rotational speed. For example, controlling the load may allow the at least one processor to adjust the frequency, voltage, and / or phase of the AC signal, thereby allowing the at least one processor to regulate each fluid turbine and bring the grid connection into compliance with at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0223] In some embodiments, regulating each turbine includes complying with an MPPT protocol so that each turbine generates power at a maximum power point. The MPPT protocol may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The maximum power point (e.g., peak power point) may refer to a rotational speed at which a fluid turbine produces a maximum power output (e.g., peak power output) when operating at a particular fluid velocity. The maximum power point of a fluid turbine may be determined, for example, using an associated power curve stored in a memory (e.g., see Fig.121200 in Figure 1201). The associated power curves may be based on previous testing and / or through simulation. In some embodiments, each fluid turbine in a cluster of fluid turbines may be associated with the same maximum power point for a given fluid speed (e.g., each fluid turbine in the cluster may be associated with the same power curve). In some embodiments, at least some of the fluid turbines in a cluster of fluid turbines may be associated with different maximum power points for a given speed. For example, due to different designs and / or different operating parameters, at least some of the fluid turbines in a cluster may be associated with different power curves. In some embodiments, at least some of the fluid turbines in a cluster of fluid turbines may be affected by fluid dynamic coupling and may therefore be affected by different fluid speeds at any given point in time, resulting in at least some of the fluid turbines being associated with different maximum power points at a given point in time (e.g., even though at least some of the fluid turbines may be associated with the same power curve).

[0224] For example, at least one processor may receive an indication of fluid velocity from one or more detectors associated with one or more fluid turbines. The indication of fluid velocity may include, for example, a measurement of fluid velocity, a measurement of rotational speed in response to fluid flow, a measurement of AC power output of an electrical energy generator and an associated fluid turbine, and / or any other measurement that may be used to determine fluid velocity. At least one processor may use the indication of fluid velocity and / or an associated power curve retrieved from a memory to determine a rotational speed corresponding to the fluid velocity to produce a maximum power output according to an MPPT protocol. At least one processor may transmit one or more signals to adjust each fluid turbine, such as by engaging an associated brake to adjust the rotational speed of each fluid turbine. Thus, adjusting the rotational speed may cause each fluid turbine to be substantially at a rotational speed corresponding to the maximum power output of each fluid turbine.

[0225] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor 428 may adjust the fluid turbines 404 in the cluster 401 so that the connection to the grid 718 (via the inverter 434) complies with at least one operating parameter. For example, at least one processor 428 may transmit a plurality of signals to each charge controller 410 to control the load on each fluid turbine 404. Controlling the load on each fluid turbine 404 may involve at least one processor 428 controlling a brake associated with each fluid turbine 404. For example, in Fig.13In some embodiments, at least one processor 428 may electrically activate the associated brakes by transmitting a signal to the electronic brake control 518 and / or the mechanical brake control 520 associated with each fluid turbine 404. In some embodiments, at least one processor 428 may activate the mechanical brakes associated with each fluid turbine 404 (e.g., see Figure 6 In some embodiments, at least one processor 428 can control the load on each fluid turbine 404 according to the MPPT protocol. For example, at least one processor 428 can be from memory 430 (see Figure 4 ) to retrieve the graph 1200 associated with each fluid turbine 404 (see Fig.12 ) version. The at least one processor 428 may use the graph 1200 to determine a rotational speed such that each fluid turbine 404 generates electricity at a maximum power point.

[0226] In some embodiments, each rectifier is configured to receive a different AC voltage from an associated fluid turbine and convert each different AC voltage to a DC voltage, thereby generating a plurality of DC voltages. Different AC voltages may include distinguishable AC voltages, for example, distinguishable by at least one AC voltage attribute (e.g., frequency, phase, and / or voltage level). For example, each fluid turbine may be associated with different operating parameters (e.g., due to different designs) and / or different fluid flows (e.g., different incident angles of fluid flows on multiple blades, and / or different fluid flows caused by fluid dynamic coupling between different fluid turbines in a fluid turbine cluster). Therefore, each fluid turbine may generate a different AC voltage (e.g., different phases, frequencies, and / or voltages). Each different AC voltage generated by each fluid turbine may flow to an associated rectifier, which may convert each different AC voltage into a DC voltage. Each DC voltage may be delivered to a common circuit for aggregation. In some embodiments, each DC voltage may be converted to a common DC voltage via a DC-DC converter to allow multiple DC voltages to be paralleled and combined. In some embodiments, each different AC voltage is a three-phase AC voltage. The three-phase AC voltage may be understood as described elsewhere in the present disclosure.

[0227] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7In the embodiment of the present invention, each rectifier 530 can receive a different AC power output 408 (e.g., AC voltage) from the associated fluid turbine 404. Each rectifier 530 can convert each different AC power output 408 (e.g., AC voltage) into a different DC signal 412 to produce a plurality of DC voltages. The plurality of DC signals 412 (e.g., DC voltages) can be combined in parallel to produce a total DC voltage 426. In some embodiments, the generator 406 can be a three-phase generator, and the AC power output 408 (eg, AC voltage) may be a three-phase AC voltage.

[0228] In some embodiments, confirming that the connection with the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter includes receiving a signal from a regulating circuit. Signals and circuits can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The regulating circuit can refer to a circuit configured to perform one or more operations to ensure that the AC voltage complies with one or more regulations and / or specifications associated with the power grid. The regulating circuit may include one or more transformers, tap changers, compensators (e.g., static VAR compensators), capacitors (e.g., synchronous capacitors), at least one processor, inverter, booster, load, braking circuit, shunt resistor, capacitor, inductor, rated contact, one or more detectors (e.g., voltage and / or current meters) and / or any other components configured to ensure that the AC voltage complies with the power grid. At least one processor can receive a signal from the regulating circuit and determine based on the signal whether the properties of the AC voltage (e.g., voltage level, frequency, phase, impedance and / or any other characteristics of the AC voltage) comply with at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0229] In some embodiments, at least one processor may use the signals received from the regulation circuit to adjust the AC power output of one or more fluid turbines to maintain connection to the grid in accordance with at least one predetermined operating parameter. For example, based on the received signals, at least one processor may engage or disengage one or more brakes and / or DC-DC converters associated with the one or more fluid turbines to adjust the voltage level, phase, impedance, and / or frequency so that the AC voltage complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0230] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, at least one processor 428 may receive at least one signal from the circuit 700. The circuit 700 may include a plurality of braking detection circuits 712 (e.g., for controlling the load imposed on the fluid turbine 404) and a plurality of boost circuits 714 (e.g., for bringing the voltage level into compliance with the grid 718), thereby allowing the connection between the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 (via the inverter 434) and the grid 718 to be regulated.

[0231] In some embodiments, at least one processor is further configured to sense a power demand associated with the battery, and in response, preferentially transmit the total DC voltage to the battery. Sensing (e.g., perception) may include detecting, measuring, and / or receiving a measurement value. Power may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Power demand may refer to a request and / or need to consume power. In some embodiments, the battery may provide electrical energy to control the operation of one or more fluid turbines. For example, the battery may provide energy to operate a circuit for controlling a load, a rotational speed, a rotational phase, a booster and / or a buck, one or more brakes, one or more switches to transfer energy flow to one or more energy receivers, and / or any other operation for controlling a fluid turbine. In some embodiments, the power demand associated with the battery may be associated with a threshold level of the battery. For example, the threshold level of the battery may be associated with the amount of stored energy required to power a circuit for controlling the operation of a cluster of fluid turbines. The power demand associated with the battery may refer to the battery's demand for electrical energy. For example, when the level of electrical energy stored in the battery reaches or falls below a threshold level, a detector associated with the battery may send a signal to at least one processor, thereby allowing at least one processor to sense the power demand associated with the battery. Prioritization (eg, prioritization) can include increasing levels of importance and / or focus to give priority and / or precedence, for example, to perform one task instead of another task or to perform one task before another task. Transferring the total power may refer to transferring power due to, for example, sensing a power demand. In response, preferentially transferring the total DC voltage to the battery may include at least one processor, upon sensing a power demand associated with the battery, diverting at least a portion of the total DC voltage to charge the battery (e.g., rather than using the total DC voltage for other purposes). For example, rather than allowing the inverter to convert the total DC voltage to an AC voltage to feed the grid, the at least one processor may operate a switch to divert at least a portion of the total DC voltage to the battery and / or to charge the capacitor.

[0232] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor 428 can sense the power demand associated with the battery pack 720. In response, at least one processor 428 can prioritize the transmission of the total DC voltage 726 to the battery pack 720. For example, in the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor 428 can sense the power demand associated with the battery pack 720. In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor 428 can sense the power demand associated with the battery pack 72 Fig.13 , at least one processor 428 (and / or at least one processor 512 ) may operate the switch 1314 to transfer at least a portion of the DC voltage signal to the energy storage component 1322 via the DC-DC converter 1316 .

[0233] Some embodiments relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for transferring power from a fluid turbine cluster to a power grid. The at least one processor may confirm that the connection of the fluid turbine cluster to the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter; when confirming that the power grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, permit inversion of the total DC voltage to an AC voltage compatible with the power grid and permit output of the AC voltage to the power grid; and when not confirming that the power grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, prevent output of the AC voltage to the power grid.

[0234] By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , at least one processor 428 may confirm that the connection of the cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 to the grid 718 (e.g., via the inverter 434) complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. When it is confirmed that the grid connection complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, the at least one processor 428 may permit the total DC voltage 726 to be inverted into an AC voltage (e.g., AC power signal 722) compatible with the grid 718, and may permit the inverter 434 to output the AC voltage (e.g., AC power signal 722) to the grid 718. When it is not confirmed that the grid connection (e.g., via the inverter 434) complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter, the at least one processor 428 may prevent the AC voltage 422 from being output to the grid 718.

[0235] Fig.17 A flow chart of an exemplary process 1700 for delivering power from a cluster of fluid turbines to a power grid consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, process 1700 may be executed by at least one processor (e.g., processor 428 and / or processor 512) to perform the operations or functions described herein. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1700 may be implemented as software (e.g., program code or instructions) stored in a memory (e.g., memory 430 and / or memory 514) or a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1700 may be implemented as hardware (e.g., In some embodiments, process 1700 may be implemented as a combination of software and hardware.

[0236] Process 1700 includes step 1702 of confirming that the connection of the fluid turbine cluster to the power grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter. By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , at least one processor 428 may confirm that the connection of cluster 401 of fluid turbines 404 to grid 718 (eg, via inverters 434) complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0237] Process 1700 includes step 1704, when it is confirmed that the grid connection meets at least one predetermined operating parameter, permitting the total DC voltage to be inverted into an AC voltage compatible with the grid and permitting the AC voltage to be output to the grid. By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , when it is confirmed that the grid connection meets at least one predetermined operating parameter, at least one processor 428 may permit the total DC voltage 726 to be inverted into an AC voltage (e.g., AC power signal 722) that is compatible with the grid 718, and may allow the inverter 434 to output the AC voltage (e.g., AC power signal 722) to the grid 718.

[0238] Process 1700 includes step 1706 of preventing output of AC voltage to the grid when the grid connection is not confirmed to meet at least one predetermined operating parameter. By way of non-limiting example, in Figure 7 , at least one processor 428 may prevent the AC voltage 422 from being output to the grid 718 when it is not confirmed that the grid connection (eg, via the inverter 434) meets at least one predetermined operating parameter.

[0239] When operating under low fluid velocity conditions, a fluid turbine may produce energy below a threshold level to supply to the grid (e.g., in an off-grid operating mode). To avoid energy losses generated at low fluid velocities, the energy can be converted to a DC voltage and stored in an energy storage element (e.g., a capacitor or battery). However, converting an AC electrical signal to a DC electrical signal for energy storage may result in the loss of information associated with the AC characteristics. Information associated with the AC characteristics can be valuable, for example, for applying MPPT protocols to a fluid turbine and associated generator, and / or for detecting anomalies (e.g., related to mechanical dysfunction and / or damage). In addition, information associated with the stored DC energy can also be useful, for example, for detecting the level of stored DC energy (e.g., to prevent overcharging of a battery or capacitor, and / or or determining when to release stored energy).

[0240] Some disclosed embodiments include a circuit for storing energy generated under low fluid velocity conditions (e.g., in an off-grid mode), the circuit having two independent information channels, an AC information channel and a DC information channel. The AC information channel can transmit information associated with the AC characteristics of the AC power output of the fluid turbine. At least one processor can use the information transmitted via the AC information channel, for example, to apply an MPPT protocol to the fluid turbine and an associated generator, and / or detect anomalies. At least one processor can use the information transmitted via the DC information channel, for example, to detect the energy level stored in the energy storage component. At least one processor can use the detected stored energy level to determine when to release the stored energy, and / or to determine when to stop storing energy (e.g., to prevent overcharging the energy storage component).

[0241] Some embodiments relate to a dual-channel fluid turbine controller. A fluid turbine may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. A fluid turbine controller may include one or more devices, processors, and / or circuits for controlling a fluid turbine. Controlling a fluid turbine may include receiving data associated with one or more operating parameters of a fluid turbine, monitoring one or more operating parameters of a fluid turbine, performing calculations based on data associated with one or more operating parameters, transmitting signals that affect one or more operating parameters of a fluid turbine, and / or performing any other functions or procedures to control one or more operating parameters associated with a fluid turbine. Dual channels may refer to a system comprising two independent or partially independent (e.g., partially or completely parallel) channels, paths, routes, or circuits for transmitting signals. For example, a first channel may be configured to transmit information associated with an AC characteristic, and a second channel may be configured to transmit information associated with a DC characteristic. Information associated with an AC characteristic may be related to the AC power output of a fluid turbine. Information associated with a DC characteristic may be related to the energy level stored in an energy storage component, such as during an off-grid operating mode of a fluid turbine. A dual channel fluid turbine controller may refer to a fluid turbine controller configured to receive information via two separate information channels, for example, a first channel for communicating information associated with AC characteristics and a second channel for communicating information associated with DC characteristics.

[0242] Some embodiments involve at least one processor configured to receive a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating power fluctuations generated by the fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold. "At least one processor", "receiving", "signal", "Power", "threshold" and "grid" (eg, electrical grid) may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Power generated may refer to production, creation and / or Or converted power. The power generated by the fluid turbine may refer to the electrical energy generated by an energy generator coupled to the fluid turbine. Such an energy generator may convert the mechanical motion (such as torque) of the fluid turbine into AC electrical energy by induction, as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Power "below" the grid power threshold may refer to power less than or below the threshold. The grid power threshold may point to a lower limit or benchmark for power delivered by the grid, where AC power below the threshold may not be suitable for powering the grid. The grid power threshold may be uniform or based on geographic location (e.g., different regions may be associated with different grid power thresholds). For example, the grid power threshold may correspond to 110 to 120V at 60Hz, or 220-240V at 50Hz. A fluid turbine operating below the grid power threshold may refer to a fluid turbine that is subjected to a low-speed fluid flow and carries too little kinetic energy to rotate the fluid turbine at a rotational speed sufficient to generate power above the grid power threshold, thereby preventing the fluid turbine from delivering the generated energy to the grid. In some embodiments, a fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold may include a fluid turbine subject to a load that absorbs at least a portion of the generated power to power at least one processor and associated circuitry such that the remaining power may be below the grid power threshold. Fluctuations may include changes, oscillations, variability, and / or movement (e.g., from high to low or vice versa). Power fluctuations generated by a fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold may refer to changes, irregularities, and / or non-uniformity in the power generated by a fluid turbine operating under low fluid velocity conditions (e.g., in an off-grid operating mode), for example due to changes in fluid velocity over time.

[0243] The signal indicative of power fluctuations produced by the fluid turbine may refer to measurements and / or readings of a detector (e.g., a voltage and / or ammeter) that indicates characteristics of the AC power signal. Such characteristics may include, for example, voltage level, frequency, phase, and / or changes and / or lack of changes therein. Such characteristics may also include, for example, above average, below average, and / or irregular peaks and / or valleys of the AC electrical signal. In some embodiments, the signal indicative of power fluctuations produced by the fluid turbine may include one or more statistical measurements associated with one or more characteristics of the AC power signal (e.g., related to voltage, frequency, and / or phase). Such statistical measures may include, for example, a mean (e.g., a continuous time mean), a mode, a standard deviation or variance, a minimum value, a maximum value, and / or any other statistical measure of a characteristic of the AC power signal.

[0244] An AC channel may refer to one or more wired and / or wireless communication links for carrying digitally encoded information associated with an AC signal (e.g., an AC power output of a fluid turbine). The AC output of a fluid turbine may refer to one or more conductive ports, conduits, wires, and / or cables associated with a generator of a fluid turbine and configured to transmit the generated AC power to an electrical energy receiver. The AC output of a fluid turbine may be a source of information associated with the AC power output of a fluid turbine. A coupled AC channel may include a connection (e.g., an electrical connection) and / or an associated AC channel. Thus, an AC channel coupled to the AC output of a fluid turbine may include an interface (e.g., an analog to digital interface) connected or otherwise associated with the AC output. Such a connection may be configured to convert an AC characteristic of the AC power output of the fluid turbine into digitally encoded information (e.g., for receipt by at least one processor). For example, an AC channel coupled to the AC output of a fluid turbine may include one or more sampling devices for measuring the AC characteristics of the AC power output of the fluid turbine (e.g., according to a Nyquist sampling frequency). Examples of sampling devices may include, for example, a voltmeter, an ammeter, a phase measurement unit (e.g., a PMU for estimating the amplitude and / or phase angle of a time-varying electrical signal), a SCADA (e.g., supervisory control and data acquisition) control system, and / or any other device capable of extracting information from the AC power output of the fluid turbine. The at least one processor configured to receive via an AC channel coupled to the AC output of the fluid turbine may include at least one processor connected to the AC channel, the AC channel coupled to the AC output of the fluid turbine. For example, the at least one processor may be an information receiver, the AC output of the fluid turbine may be an information source, and the AC channel may transmit information from the source to the receiver. In some embodiments, a first signal is received from a voltage sensor connected to the AC channel. The voltage sensor may include a device (e.g., an interface device) for converting a voltage difference between two points in a circuit at any given point in time into an electronic (e.g., digital) signal. In some embodiments, the voltage sensor may sample the AC power output of the fluid turbine according to a sampling frequency (e.g., a Nyquist sampling frequency) to allow the voltage sensor to convert the analog AC power output into digitally encoded information (e.g., received by the at least one processor). The voltage sensor may have a first connection to the AC power output of the fluid turbine and a second connection to the at least one processor, thereby allowing the at least one processor to receive digital information associated with the AC power output of the fluid turbine.

[0245] For example, at least one processor may communicate with a sampling device connected to an AC power source output of a fluid turbine, and may receive a plurality of readings (e.g., samples) associated with the AC power output of the fluid turbine from the sampling device. In addition, the at least one processor may retrieve a grid power threshold from a memory. The at least one processor may analyze and / or compare a plurality of readings of the AC power output of the fluid turbine with the grid power threshold to determine whether the AC power output meets the grid power threshold. If the AC power output meets the grid power threshold, the at least one processor may operate a switch to allow the generated AC power to be delivered to the grid. If the AC power output fails to meet the grid power threshold, the at least one processor may operate a switch to convert the generated AC power into DC power for storage in an energy storage component (e.g., in an off-grid operating mode). In addition, when operating in an off-grid mode, the at least one processor may use the readings of the AC power output of the fluid turbine to detect fluctuations in the generated power. Such fluctuations may be due to changes in fluid velocity and / or direction, and / or due to damage or mechanical defects.

[0246] In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to use the first signal to detect at least one anomaly associated with power generated by the fluid turbine. The anomaly may include abnormal, irregular, and / or or deviations, such as deviations from expected behavior. For example, at least one processor may compare characteristics of the AC power output of the fluid turbine to expected characteristics, and may detect an anomaly when a difference between the two is determined. Such differences may include, for example, a lack of pattern, spikes and / or valleys in the AC power signal that are above average, a sudden drop or increase in the generated AC power that is not correlated with a sudden drop or increase in fluid velocity, a frequency irregularity that is not correlated with changes in fluid velocity, and / or any other difference that indicates abnormal behavior of the fluid turbine and associated generator. In some embodiments, at least one anomaly indicates sabotage. Sabotage may include intentional destruction or damage. For example, an agent (e.g., a person and / or a device such as a drone) may sabotage the fluid turbine by intentionally damaging one or more physical components of the fluid turbine (e.g., multiple blades, shafts, generators, connecting wires, and / or electronic devices). As another example, an agent (e.g., a person, device, and / or software agent) may sabotage the fluid turbine by intentionally damaging software associated with controlling and / or regulating the fluid turbine (e.g., by introducing a virus or malware into a software application configured to be executed by at least one processor associated with the fluid turbine). In some embodiments, at least one anomaly indicates a mechanical defect. Mechanical defects may include physical flaws, weaknesses and / or or malfunction. For example, due to wear and tear, moisture ingress into the generator, high fluid velocities, ground movement and / or or any other factors that may cause mechanical damage to the fluid turbine and / or associated generator, one or more components of the fluid turbine and / or associated generator may develop a mechanical defect.

[0247] By way of non-limiting example, reference is made to Fig.18 , which shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary dual channel controller 1800 for a fluid turbine consistent with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the example shown, the dual channel controller 1800 includes at least one processor 428 and is integrated with the interconnect circuit 414, however this is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the present invention. In some embodiments, the dual channel controller can be integrated with the charge controller 410 and can include at least one processor 512. In some embodiments, the dual channel controller can be associated with the charge controller 410, which is associated with at least one processor 512, and the dual channel controller is associated with the interconnect circuit 414, which is associated with the at least one processor 428.

[0248] The dual channel controller 1800 may be coupled to the generator 406 and the AC power output 408 of the fluid turbine 404 via the AC channel 1802 and the analog-digital interface 1804. The dual channel controller 1800 may also be coupled to the energy storage component 1322 via the DC channel 1806 and the detector 1808. For example, the detector 1808 may correspond to the voltage sensor 1320. The fluid turbine 404 may be operated in an off-grid operation mode due to low fluid velocity, so that the AC power output 408 may be below the grid power threshold (e.g., below 110V at 60Hz). The analog-digital interface 1804 may sample one or more measurements of the AC power output 408 and may convert the measurements into a first signal carrying digitally encoded information associated with the AC power output 408. At least one processor may receive a first signal via the AC channel 1802 coupled to the AC power output 408 of the fluid turbine 404, the first signal indicating a fluctuation of the AC power output 408 generated by the fluid turbine 404 operating below the grid power threshold. For example, fluctuations in AC power output 408 may be due to changes in low fluid velocity. In some embodiments, analog-to-digital interface 1804 may include a voltage sensor connected to AC channel 1802. In some embodiments, at least one processor may use the first signal to detect at least one anomaly associated with AC power output 408 generated by fluid turbine 404. For example, at least one anomaly may indicate damage and / or mechanical defects associated with fluid turbine 404 and / or generator 406.

[0249] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to access an MPPT protocol. The MPPT protocol may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Accessing (e.g., access) may include obtaining, acquiring, viewing, and / or receiving. At least one processor may access the MPPT protocol by retrieving data associated with the MPPT protocol from a memory, and / or generating data associated with the MPPT protocol by simulation. Such data may include, for example, power curves (e.g., Fig.12 1200 as shown), a measurement of fluid velocity, a load currently applied to the fluid turbine, and / or one or more associated operating parameters. Some examples of operating parameters may include rotational speed (e.g., RMP), voltage and / or current generated by the energy generator, an indication of fluid velocity, a load (e.g., the amount of power transmitted to an energy receiver (e.g., an energy storage component or a power grid), blade position (e.g., blade position of a cluster of fluid turbines), torque measurements, and / or magnetic properties of the energy generator. For example, to implement an MPPT protocol on a fluid turbine and an associated generator, at least one processor may require information associated with AC power (e.g., voltage level and / or frequency) generated at a particular fluid velocity. At least one processor may use information associated with the AC power output to determine one or more adjustments to the rotational speed of the fluid turbine according to the MPPT protocol that may be necessary to allow the fluid turbine to produce a peak power output at a particular fluid velocity.

[0250] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.12 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 428 and / or 512) can access a chart 1200 associated with an MPPT protocol for a fluid turbine. For example, the chart 1200 can be stored in the memory 430 and / or the memory 514. In some embodiments, the accessed MPPT protocol can be associated with a specific fluid turbine in the fluid turbine cluster (e.g., the fluid turbine 404A of the fluid turbine cluster 401).

[0251] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to determine a correspondence between a first signal and a portion of an MPPT protocol. The correspondence may include one or more of: a correlation, a measure of similarity or degree of similarity, a mapping, and / or a comparison. A portion may refer to, for example, a portion, a segment, and / or a fragment of a whole. A portion of an MPPT protocol may refer to a portion of an MPPT protocol associated with making one or more adjustments to the rotational speed of a fluid turbine (e.g., by adjusting an associated load), thereby making a corresponding adjustment to the power generated. In some embodiments, a portion of an MPPT protocol may correspond to a specific fluid velocity or range of fluid velocities, and / or a specific power output or range of power outputs. In some embodiments, a portion of an MPPT protocol may be associated with a portion of a power curve, wherein the relationship between rotational speed and power output may be substantially linear. In some embodiments, a portion of an MPPT protocol may be associated with a portion of a power curve that includes a peak power output. In some embodiments, an MPPT protocol may be associated with a power curve for a fluid turbine having multiple curves, each curve being associated with a different fluid velocity (e.g., see Fig.12 1200 in Figure 1200), and a portion of the MPPT protocol can be associated with a particular one of multiple curves associated with a particular fluid velocity.

[0252] The correspondence between the signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol may include a mapping and / or correlation between the signal indicating the generated power fluctuation and a portion of the MPPT protocol. For example, the correspondence may indicate the difference between the level of the generated AC power and the peak power output due to changes in fluid velocity, damage and / or mechanical defects. At least one processor may determine the correspondence between the signal indicating the generated power fluctuation and a portion of the MPPT protocol, for example based on detecting changes in fluid velocity and / or the generated AC power. In some embodiments, the correspondence between the first signal and the first portion of the MPPT protocol is at least partially determined using a machine learning algorithm. Machine learning may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. At least one processor may use one or more machine learning algorithms to determine a portion of the MPPT protocol applied to the fluid turbine based on the signal indicating the generated AC power fluctuation. In some embodiments, at least one processor may continuously determine (e.g., by continuously updating) the correspondence between the signal indicating the AC power fluctuation and a portion of the MPPT protocol over time, for example, in response to continuously detecting changes in fluid velocity and / or the generated AC power. In some embodiments, at least one processor may periodically determine (e.g., periodically update) a correspondence over time between a signal indicating AC power fluctuations and a portion of an MPP protocol in response to periodically detecting changes in fluid velocity and / or generated AC power (e.g., every minute, every 10 minutes, every hour, or using any other time period).

[0253] For example, during a first period at a first fluid speed, at least one processor may use a first portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., based on a first correspondence) to make a first adjustment (e.g., by applying a first load) to the rotational speed of the fluid turbine, so that the fluid turbine generates a first peak power output during a first time period at the first fluid speed. For example, the first portion of the MPPT protocol may be associated with a first curve of a power curve of the fluid turbine associated with the first fluid speed. During a second period, at least one processor may detect fluctuations in the generated AC power (e.g., based on a signal received from a detector via an AC channel). At least one processor may determine a change from a first fluid speed to a second fluid speed based on the received signal and / or data received from the fluid speed detector. At least one processor may determine a second correspondence of a second portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., a second curve of the power curve) associated with the second fluid speed. At least one processor may use a second correspondence with the second portion of the MPPT protocol to adjust the first load to a second load, so that the rotational speed of the fluid turbine is adjusted accordingly. For example, the adjusted rotational speed may correspond to a second peak power output at a second fluid speed based on the second portion of the MPPT protocol.

[0254] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.12 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor can determine the correspondence between the first signal received via the AC channel 1802 and a portion of the MPPT protocol. For example, before receiving the first signal, when the fluid velocity is v w1 When at least one processor can use the first part of the MPPT protocol (e.g., with the fluid velocity v w2 The load on the fluid turbine 404 is controlled by using a curve 1220 associated with the peak value 1204 of the fluid turbine 404 so that the AC power output 408 is proportional to the fluid velocity v w1 However, based on the first signal and / or one or more signals received from sensor 418, at least one processor may determine that the current fluid velocity is now v w2 For example, at least one processor may obtain information from a fluid velocity sensor 504 (eg, see Figure 5 ) receives the fluid velocity measurement. The at least one processor may determine whether the fluctuation of the AC power output 408 indicated by the first signal is consistent with the second part of the MPPT protocol (e.g., with the fluid velocity v w2 The correspondence between the curve 1222 associated with the peak 1206).

[0255] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to apply a portion of an MPPT protocol to a generator of a fluid turbine to produce greater power than would be produced if the portion of the MPPT protocol were not applied. Applying may include using and / or employing. The generator of a fluid turbine may refer to an electrical energy generator coupled to the fluid turbine, thereby allowing the electrical energy generator to convert the rotational motion of the fluid turbine into electrical energy. Applying a portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator of a fluid turbine may include at least one processor using a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., associated with a particular fluid speed) to adjust a load and / or brake associated with the generator and the associated fluid turbine to cause a corresponding adjustment in the rotational speed, thereby causing a corresponding adjustment in the AC power output of the generator and the associated fluid turbine. In some embodiments, applying a portion of the MPPT protocol may include determining a current fluid speed (e.g., based on receiving a signal from a fluid speed detector and / or based on receiving a signal indicating a power fluctuation generated). Applying a portion of the MPPT protocol may also include measuring the (e.g., adjusted) AC power output associated with the generator and the associated fluid turbine operating under (e.g., adjusted) load and / or braking, and comparing the measured AC power output with the peak power output of a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., associated with a specific fluid speed). At least one processor may repeat some or all of these steps in an iterative manner until the measured AC power output substantially matches the peak power output of the specific fluid speed. More power may refer to more power, additional and / or enhanced power. Missing may refer to lack, omission and / or exclusion. Not applying a portion of the MPPT protocol may refer to the operation without and / or excluding the application of a portion of the MPPT protocol. Generating more power than the power generated when a portion of the MPPT protocol is not applied may refer to the generator of the fluid turbine generating a higher level of generated power due to adjusting the associated load and / or brake based on a portion of the MPPT protocol.

[0256] For example, during a first time period associated with a first fluid speed, a generator of a fluid turbine rotating at a first rotational speed under a first load can generate a first AC power output that is substantially at the level of a first peak power output associated with the first fluid speed. For example, the first rotational speed can be associated with a first correspondence between the first AC power output and the first portion of the MPPT protocol associated with the first fluid speed. However, during a second time period associated with a second fluid speed, based on a signal indicating a fluctuation in the generated AC power (e.g., the second AC power output), at least one processor can determine a second correspondence of the second portion of the MPPT protocol associated with the second fluid speed. Based on the second correspondence, at least one processor can determine the difference between the second AC power output and the second peak power output associated with the second fluid speed. For example, due to the difference between the second rotational speed rotational speed and the rotational speed at which the second peak power output is achieved according to the second portion of the MPPT protocol associated with the second fluid speed, the second AC power output may be less than the second peak power output. In response, at least one processor may apply a second load (e.g., different from the first load) to the generator, thereby causing the fluid turbine to rotate at a third rotational speed to produce a third AC power output that is substantially at a level of a second peak power output associated with the second fluid speed, thereby producing greater power than would be produced when the second portion of the MPPT protocol is not applied.

[0257] In some embodiments, applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator includes modifying the load on the fluid turbine via a DC-DC converter of the generator. The load may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Modifying the load may include changing, adjusting, altering, such as by increasing or decreasing the load. The DC-DC converter may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one processor may apply the load to the generator via a charge controller including a DC-DC converter. At least one processor may adjust the duty cycle and / or switching frequency of the DC-DC converter to make corresponding adjustments to the load applied to the generator.

[0258] In some embodiments, the power generated is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator. Storage, capacitors, and storing energy in capacitors can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. When a portion of the MPPT protocol is applied to the generator of the fluid turbine to generate a greater AC power than the AC power generated when a portion of the MPPT protocol is not applied, at least one processor may cause a DC power signal corresponding to the generated AC power to flow to the capacitor. The DC power signal can charge the capacitor so that the AC power generated by the generator is stored as a DC voltage. In some embodiments, at least one processor may cause a DC power signal corresponding to the generated AC power to flow to one or more batteries (e.g., a battery pack). In some embodiments, at least one processor may cause a DC power signal corresponding to the generated AC power to flow to an energy storage component (e.g., including one or more capacitors and / or batteries). For example, a rectifier may convert the AC power output of the fluid turbine into a DC power signal, and when the fluid turbine is operated below the grid power threshold, at least one processor may operate a switch to transfer the DC power signal to the capacitor.

[0259] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment, at least one processor may convert the second part of the MPPT protocol (such as Fig.12 The fluid velocity v w2 The curve 1222 associated with the peak value 1206 of the MPPT protocol is applied to the generator 406 of the fluid turbine 404 to produce more power than the power produced when the second part of the MPPT protocol is not applied. For example, when applying the MPPT protocol with the fluid velocity v w2 Prior to the peak 1206 of the curve 1222 associated with the at least one processor may have been based on the fluid velocity v w1 The curve 1220 associated with the peak 1204 adjusts the load on the fluid turbine 404 so that the fluid turbine 404 produces a velocity lower than the fluid velocity v w2 The peak 1206 level of AC power output 408. In the application with fluid velocity v w2 After the curve 1222 associated with the peak value 1206 of the AC power output 408 is obtained (eg, based on receiving the first signal indicating a fluctuation in the AC power output 408), at least one processor may generate a signal based on the fluid velocity v w2 The curve 1222 associated with the peak 1206 of the fluid flow adjusts the load on the fluid turbine 404 so that the fluid turbine 404 produces an AC power output 408 having a level substantially equal to the fluid velocity v w2 The peak value 1206. Therefore, the fluid turbine 404 can generate a higher value than that without the application of the fluid velocity v w2 The peak 1206 is associated with curve 1222 when the power produced is greater power.

[0260] In some embodiments, at least one processor may apply a portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator by modifying the load on the fluid turbine 404 via one or more DC-DC converters 426, 1316, and / or 1318 associated with the generator 406. In some embodiments, at least one processor may apply a portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator by modifying the load on the fluid turbine 404 using a mechanical brake control 520 and / or an electronic brake control 518.

[0261] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to receive a second signal indicating the energy level stored in a capacitor via a DC channel. The energy level stored in the capacitor may refer to the amount of charge stored or the voltage potential maintained between two conductive plates of the capacitor. The signal indicating the energy level stored in the capacitor may include a digitally encoded measurement of the charge level stored in the capacitor. For example, a detector such as a multimeter or a voltage sensor may sense the charge level in the capacitor and convert the charge level into digitally encoded information. The DC channel may refer to one or more wired and / or wireless communication links, designated to carry digitally encoded information associated with a DC signal, such as the energy level stored in the capacitor. At least one processor may electronically communicate with a detector connected to the capacitor via a DC channel. At least one processor may receive an electronic signal indicating the charge level in the capacitor from the detector via the DC channel. In some embodiments, at least one processor may electronically communicate with a detector connected to one or more batteries (e.g., a battery pack) via a DC channel. At least one processor may receive an electronic signal indicating the charge level of one or more batteries from the detector via a DC channel. In some embodiments, at least one processor may electronically communicate with a detector connected to an energy storage component (e.g., including one or more capacitors and / or batteries) via a DC channel. The at least one processor may receive an electronic signal from the detector via the DC channel indicative of a charge level in the energy storage component.

[0262] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor can receive a second signal indicating the energy level stored in the capacitor (e.g., energy storage component 1322) via DC channel 1806. For example, at least one processor can receive the charge level stored in the capacitor from detector 1808.

[0263] Some embodiments relate to at least one processor configured to use a second signal to determine when to release the stored energy. The release may include discharging, for example, by establishing a conductive connection. Releasing the stored energy (e.g., stored in a capacitor) may involve manipulating a switch to allow electrical energy (e.g., current) to flow out of the capacitor via one or more wires. At least one processor may compare a signal indicating the energy level stored in the capacitor with a stored energy threshold level (e.g., retrieved from a memory). For example, the stored energy threshold level may be associated with the maximum capacitance of the capacitor, and / or associated with the electrical energy demand stored in the capacitor (e.g., so that once the stored energy reaches the demand, the energy stored in the capacitor can be released). When the stored energy level reaches the stored energy threshold level, at least one processor may flip the switch to discharge the capacitor. For example, the released energy may be used to power at least one processor and associated circuits. In some embodiments, at least one processor may use a second signal to determine when to release the stored energy from one or more batteries (e.g., a battery pack). In some embodiments, at least one processor may use a second signal to determine when to release the stored energy from an energy storage component (e.g., including one or more capacitors and / or batteries).

[0264] In some embodiments, at least one processor is further configured to release energy stored in at least one capacitor to the grid when the energy level at least reaches a grid power threshold. The grid may be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The energy level at least reaching the grid power threshold may refer to when the amount of energy at least meets and / or reaches the grid power threshold. When it is detected that the energy level stored in the capacitor reaches the grid power threshold, at least one processor may operate a switch so that the DC stored in the capacitor is released to the grid. The power flows to the inverter, which converts the DC power to an AC voltage that is compatible with the grid.

[0265] In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to subsequently release energy stored in the at least one capacitor to smooth the power released to the grid during subsequent operation of the fluid turbine to generate power above the grid power threshold. "Subsequently" may include following, after, and / or Or at a later stage. "Smoothing the power released to the grid" can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. The subsequent operation of the fluid turbine may refer to the later operation of the fluid turbine, for example, in a subsequent time period in which the fluid speed may have increased. The power generated by the fluid turbine exceeds the grid power threshold value may refer to the fluid turbine rotating at a fluid speed sufficient to generate electrical energy exceeding the grid power threshold value, and / or the fluid turbine is subjected to insufficient electrical energy consumed by the load, so that the remaining electrical energy can reach or exceed the grid power threshold value. Therefore, during the off-grid operation mode, when the energy generated by the fluid turbine is lower than the grid power threshold value, at least one processor can transfer the generated AC power to be stored in the capacitor as DC power. In addition, during the off-grid operation mode, at least one processor can use information received via the AC channel to apply a portion of the MPPT protocol to the fluid turbine, so that the fluid turbine generates more power than the power generated when a portion of the MPPT protocol is not applied. Subsequently, during the grid-connected operation mode, when the power generated by the fluid turbine is higher than the grid power threshold value, at least one processor can release at least some of the stored DC energy to smooth the amount of AC power supplied to the grid.

[0266] In some embodiments, at least one processor is also configured to intermittently release energy stored in at least one capacitor to power circuits inside the fluid turbine. Intermittent (e.g., intermittently) can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Power supply may include supply (e.g., energy), activation and / or operation. Circuits can be understood as described elsewhere in this disclosure. Internal can refer to the inside of something, and / or associated with a component inside something. Circuits inside the fluid turbine may include circuits configured to control the operation of the fluid turbine system and / or associated energy generators. Such circuits may include, for example, one or more processors, charge controllers, rectifiers, braking circuits, DC-DC converters, switches, capacitors, inductors, transformers and / or inverters. Circuits inside the fluid turbine may be included in the housing of the fluid turbine and / or the associated generator, but this is not necessary. Circuits inside the fluid turbine may include circuits dedicated to controlling the operation of a single fluid turbine (e.g., in a fluid turbine cluster) and / or circuits dedicated to controlling the operation of a fluid turbine cluster. In some embodiments, at least one processor can periodically release at least a portion of the energy stored in the capacitor to power circuits associated with operating the fluid turbine and associated generator. For example, at least one processor can periodically (e.g., every minute, every 10 minutes, every hour, and / or based on any other time period) and / or based on the power demand of the circuit (e.g., based on the level of an associated battery) release energy to power a battery associated with an internal circuit of the fluid turbine.

[0267] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In some embodiments, at least one processor may use the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy from energy storage component 1322. In some embodiments, when the energy level in energy storage component 1322 reaches at least the grid power threshold, at least one processor may release the energy stored in at least one capacitor to grid 718. In some embodiments, at least one processor may subsequently release the energy stored in at least one capacitor (e.g., energy storage component 1322) to smooth the power released to grid 718 during subsequent operation of fluid turbine 404 to produce power above the grid power threshold (e.g., when the fluid velocity exceeds v w4 In some embodiments, at least one processor may intermittently release energy stored in at least one capacitor (e.g., energy storage component 1322) to a power circuit (e.g., one or more of circuits 414, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, and / or 1300) within fluid turbine 404.

[0268] For example, a power threshold may need to be met before the inverter can push power to the grid. If the power threshold is not met, the inverter may not function properly. If the fluid turbine cannot continuously produce power above the threshold, this power may be lost. To avoid this, the disclosed embodiments describe storing subthreshold energy in an energy storage element such as a capacitor for a period of time. When enough energy is captured, the energy is transmitted to the inverter (e.g., in pulses) at a level sufficient to exceed the inverter's operating power threshold. For example, the generator may produce 10 volts, and the threshold of the inverter may be 20 volts. When the stored energy is sufficient to provide a voltage of at least 20 volts for a period of time, at least one processor may cause a charge controller (e.g., with or without a capacitor and / or a booster) to discharge to the inverter. In some cases, when the stored electrical energy is significantly above the threshold (e.g., when the stored electrical energy is 50 volts and the threshold is 20 volts), at least one processor may cause the stored electrical energy to be released to the inverter. In some cases, the charge controller may be associated with a threshold. For example, the operation of the charge controller may consume 5 watts. A capacitor located between the rectifier and the charge controller can accumulate electrical energy generated by the energy generator at low fluid velocity. When the stored electrical energy is sufficient to operate the charge controller and pass it to the inverter, at least one processor can cause the capacitor to release electrical energy to the charge controller.

[0269] Some embodiments relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations of a dual-channel fluid turbine control. The operations may include: receiving a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating a power fluctuation generated by a fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold; accessing an MPPT protocol; determining a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol; applying a portion of the MPPT protocol to a generator of the fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol. Wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator; receiving a second signal via a DC channel indicating a level of energy stored in the capacitor; and using the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy.

[0270] By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 428 and / or 512) may receive a first signal via an AC channel 1802 coupled to an AC power output 408 of a fluid turbine 404, the first signal indicating a power fluctuation (e.g., a power fluctuation at a fluid velocity v) generated by the fluid turbine 404 operating below a grid power threshold. w2 At least one processor may access an MPPT protocol (e.g., graph 1200 stored in memory 514 and / or memory 430). At least one processor may determine a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., at least one processor 428 may determine a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol). w2 At least one processor may include a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., fluid velocity v w2 The curve 1222 of the MPPT protocol is applied to the generator 406 of the fluid turbine 404 to generate more power than the power generated when the part of the MPPT protocol is not applied. At least one processor can cause the generated power to be stored as energy in a capacitor (e.g., energy storage component 1322) associated with the generator 406. At least one processor can receive a second signal indicating the energy level stored in the capacitor (e.g., energy storage component 1322) via the DC channel 1806. At least one processor can use the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy from the energy storage component 1322.

[0271] Fig.19A flow chart of an exemplary process 1900 for dual channel control of a fluid turbine consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, process 1900 may be executed by at least one processor (e.g., processor 428 and / or processor 512) to perform the operations or functions described herein. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1900 may be implemented as software (e.g., program code or instructions) stored in a memory (e.g., memory 430 and / or memory 514) or a non-transitory computer readable medium. In some embodiments, some aspects of process 1900 may be implemented as hardware (e.g., dedicated circuitry). In some embodiments, process 1900 may be implemented as a combination of software and hardware.

[0272] refer to Fig.19 , process 1900 includes step 1902, receiving a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating a power fluctuation generated by the fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold. By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor (e.g., at least one processor 428 and / or 512) may receive a first signal via an AC channel 1802 coupled to an AC power output 408 of a fluid turbine 404, the first signal indicating a power fluctuation (e.g., a power fluctuation at a fluid velocity v) generated by the fluid turbine 404 operating below a grid power threshold. w2 Down).

[0273] Process 1900 includes a step 1904 of accessing the MPPT protocol. By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.18 In the embodiment of the present invention, at least one processor may access an MPPT protocol (eg, diagram 1200 stored in memory 514 and / or memory 430).

[0274] Process 1900 includes a step 1906 of determining a correspondence between a first signal and a portion of an MPPT protocol. By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.12 In the embodiment, at least one processor can determine whether the first signal corresponds to a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., the fluid velocity v w2 The corresponding relationship between the curve 1222).

[0275] Process 1900 includes step 1908 of applying a portion of an MPPT protocol to a generator of a fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol, wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator. By way of non-limiting example, in Fig.12 In the embodiment, at least one processor can convert a portion of the MPPT protocol (e.g., the fluid velocity v w2The curve 1222 of the MPPT protocol is applied to the generator 406 of the fluid turbine 404 to generate more power than the power generated when the part of the MPPT protocol is not applied. At least one processor can cause the generated power to be stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator 406 (e.g., energy storage component 1322).

[0276] Process 1900 includes step 1910 of receiving a second signal indicative of an energy level stored in a capacitor via a DC channel. By way of non-limiting example, Fig.18 In the embodiment, at least one processor may receive a second signal via DC channel 1806 indicating an energy level stored in a capacitor (eg, energy storage component 1322).

[0277] Process 1900 includes step 1912 of using the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy. By way of non-limiting example, Fig.18 In, at least one processor can use the second signal to determine when to release the stored energy from the energy storage component 1322.

[0278] Examples of the inventive concepts are included in the following clauses, which are an integral part of the present disclosure. Clause 1. A control system for an energy generator, the control system comprising: a detector for sensing an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the energy generator; at least one energy storage component configured to store energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a sub-threshold level in a first operating mode that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time; an energy converter configured to, in a second mode of operation, provide energy generated by the energy generator during operation above a threshold level for real-time supply of energy to the associated power receiver; and A controllable switch is electrically associated with the detector and is configured to alternately switch between the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation based on the indicator, thereby allowing energy generated at the subthreshold level to be harvested and intermittently used. Clause 2. The control system of clause 1, wherein the at least one energy storage component comprises a capacitor or a battery. Clause 3. The control system of clauses 1 and 2, wherein the at least one energy storage component comprises a plurality of capacitors. Clause 4. The control system of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the energy converter comprises an inverter and the associated power receiver comprises a power grid. Clause 5. The control system of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the threshold is associated with a maximum input voltage rating or a minimum input voltage rating of the inverter. Clause 6. A control system as described in clauses 1 to 5, further comprising at least one DC-DC converter and at least one rectifier, wherein the at least one rectifier is configured to convert an AC power signal generated by an energy generator operating above the threshold level into a DC signal during the second operating mode, and wherein the DC-DC converter is configured to adapt the converted DC signal into another DC signal for supplying energy to an associated power grid via an inverter in the second operating mode. Clause 7. The control system of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the energy converter comprises a charge controller and the associated power receiver comprises a battery pack. Clause 8. The control system of clauses 1 to 7 further comprising at least one rectifier for converting a first AC electrical signal generated by an energy generator operating at a subthreshold level into a first DC power signal suitable for storing energy in the at least one energy storage component. Clause 9. The control system of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the at...

Claims

1. A control system for an energy generator, the control system comprising: a detector for sensing an indicator associated with the electrical energy generated by the energy generator; at least one energy storage component configured to store energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a sub-threshold level in a first operating mode that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time; an energy converter configured to, in a second operating mode, provide energy generated by the energy generator during operation above a threshold level for real-time supply of energy to the associated power receiver; as well as A controllable switch is electrically associated with the detector and is configured to alternately switch between the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation based on the indicator, thereby allowing energy generated at the subthreshold level to be harvested and intermittently used.

2. The control system of claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage component comprises a capacitor or a battery.

3. The control system of claim 2, wherein the at least one energy storage component comprises a plurality of capacitors.

4. The control system of claim 1, wherein the energy converter comprises an inverter and the associated power receiver comprises a power grid. 5 . The control system of claim 4 , wherein the threshold is associated with a maximum input voltage rating or a minimum input voltage rating of the inverter.

6. The control system of claim 4, further comprising at least one DC-DC converter and at least one rectifier, the at least one rectifier being configured to convert an AC power signal generated by the energy generator operating above the threshold level into a DC signal during the second operating mode, and wherein the DC-DC converter is configured to adapt the converted DC signal into another DC signal for supplying energy to an associated power grid via an inverter in the second operating mode.

7. The control system of claim 1, wherein the energy converter comprises a charge controller and the associated power receiver comprises a battery pack.

8. The control system of claim 1 further comprising at least one rectifier for converting a first AC electrical signal generated by an energy generator operating at a subthreshold level into a first DC power signal suitable for storing energy in the at least one energy storage component.

9. The control system of claim 8, wherein the at least one rectifier comprises a three-phase rectifier.

10. The control system of claim 1, wherein the indicator is a measurement of electrical output from the energy generator.

11. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the indicator is associated with a measurement of a rotational speed of a turbine of the energy generator.

12. The control system of claim 1 wherein the indicator is a measurement of fluid velocity of a fluid turbine.

13. The control system of claim 12, wherein the fluid is air.

14. The control system of claim 12, wherein the fluid is water.

15. The control system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one processor configured to control the controllable switch by receiving an indicator from the detector, comparing the received indicator with the threshold, and switching the controllable switch between the first mode and the second mode based on the comparison.

16. The control system of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to intermittently provide the energy collected in the at least one energy storage component to the associated power receiver when the energy in the at least one energy storage component reaches a limit.

17. The control system of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to intermittently supply energy collected in the at least one energy storage component to smooth power delivered to the associated power receiver in the second mode.

18. The control system of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to intermittently supply energy collected in the at least one energy storage component to a power circuit associated with the energy generator.

19. A control system according to claim 18, wherein the circuit is associated with a brake.

20. The control system of claim 15, further comprising at least one DC-DC converter configured to convert energy stored in the at least one energy storage component to intermittently supply the stored energy during the first operating mode, and wherein the at least one processor is configured to detect a level of energy stored in the at least one energy storage component and activate the DC-DC converter based on the detected level to discharge the at least one energy storage component.

21. The control system of claim 15, wherein the detector, the switch, and the at least one processor are integrated within an ASIC circuit.

22. The control system of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to select between the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on an operating parameter of the energy generator.

23. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for controlling an energy generator, the operations comprising: receiving a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by the energy generator; comparing the received indicator to a threshold associated with supplying energy to an associated power receiver in real time; as well as controlling the controllable switch based on the comparison, The controllable switch is configured to switch alternately between a first operating mode and a second operating mode. wherein, in the first operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time is stored in at least one energy storage component, and During a second operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation above the threshold level for real-time energy supply to the associated power receiver is provided to the associated power receiver via the energy converter, and Wherein, alternating switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode allows energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

24. A method for controlling an energy generator, the method comprising: receiving a sensed indicator associated with electrical energy generated by the energy generator; comparing the received indicator to a threshold associated with supplying energy to an associated power receiver in real time; as well as controlling a controllable switch based on the comparison, wherein the controllable switch is configured to switch alternately between a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein, in the first operating mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation at a sub-threshold level that is insufficient to supply energy to an associated power receiver in real time is stored in at least one energy storage component, and During the second operation mode, energy generated by the energy generator during operation above the threshold level for real-time energy supply to the associated power receiver is provided to the associated power receiver via the energy converter, and Wherein, alternating switching between the first operation mode and the second operation mode allows energy generated at the subthreshold level to be collected and intermittently used.

25. A total voltage controller for a fluid turbine cluster, the total voltage controller comprising: At least one processor configured to: receiving a target voltage level for the cluster of fluid turbines; receiving an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different one of the fluid turbines in the cluster of fluid turbines, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is below the target voltage level; and outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers based on an indication of the received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, Each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at the target voltage level, so that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

26. The total voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the at least one fluid turbine in the cluster having the DC voltage below the target level includes all fluid turbines in the cluster.

27. The overall voltage controller of claim 25, wherein each DC-DC converter comprises at least one of a booster or a voltage regulator.

28. The overall voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target voltage level corresponds to a charging voltage level of an associated battery.

29. The overall voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target voltage level ranges between 14V and 15V.

30. The overall voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target output voltage level is a range that varies based on a threshold voltage of an associated inverter.

31. The total voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target voltage level is met by causing the regulated total DC voltage to exceed a threshold value.

32. The total voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target voltage level is met by maintaining the regulated total DC voltage below a threshold.

33. The total voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the target voltage level is met by maintaining the regulated total DC voltage within a predefined range of the target output voltage level over time.

34. The master voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the cluster of fluid turbines are wind turbines.

35. The total voltage controller of claim 25, wherein the cluster of fluid turbines are hydro turbines.

36. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for controlling a total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines, the operations comprising: receiving a target voltage level for the cluster of fluid turbines; receiving an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different one of the fluid turbines in the cluster of fluid turbines, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is below the target voltage level; and outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers based on an indication of the received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, Each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at the target voltage level, so that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

37. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein each DC-DC converter comprises at least one of a booster or a voltage regulator.

38. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the target voltage level corresponds to a charging voltage level of an associated battery.

39. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the target voltage level ranges between 14V and 15V.

40. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the target voltage level is a range that varies based on a threshold voltage of an associated inverter.

41. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the at least one processor causes the regulated total DC voltage to comply with the target voltage level by causing the regulated total DC voltage to exceed a threshold value.

42. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the at least one processor causes the regulated total DC voltage to comply with the target voltage level by maintaining the regulated total DC voltage below a threshold.

43. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 36, wherein the at least one processor causes the regulated total DC voltage to comply with the target voltage level by maintaining the regulated total DC voltage within a predefined range of the target output voltage level over time.

44. A method for controlling the total voltage of a cluster of fluid turbines, the method comprising: receiving a target voltage level for the cluster of fluid turbines; receiving an indication of a DC voltage associated with each fluid turbine via a plurality of rectifiers, each rectifier being associated with a different one of the cluster of fluid turbines, wherein the DC voltage associated with at least one fluid turbine in the cluster is below the target voltage level; and outputting a control signal to each of a plurality of DC-DC converters associated with the plurality of rectifiers based on an indication of the received DC voltage signal associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster, Each control signal is configured to adjust each DC-DC converter to generate a DC output signal at the target voltage level, so that each DC output signal is combined in parallel to generate a total DC voltage that meets the target voltage level.

45. An inverter for transmitting power from a cluster of fluid turbines to an electrical grid, the inverter comprising: circuitry configured to receive a DC voltage via a rectifier associated with each fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines such that a plurality of DC voltages from different fluid turbines are received and aggregated; At least one processor configured to: confirming that connection to the electrical grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter; When it is confirmed that the grid connection meets the at least one predetermined operating parameter, initiating inversion of the total DC voltage into an AC voltage compatible with the grid, and initiating output of the AC voltage to the grid; as well as When the grid connection is not confirmed to comply with the at least one predetermined operating parameter, outputting the AC voltage to the grid is prevented.

46. ​​The inverter of claim 45, wherein preventing the AC voltage from being output to the grid comprises preventing the total DC voltage from being converted to the AC voltage.

47. The inverter of claim 46, wherein when the grid connection is not confirmed to be compliant, the at least one processor is further configured to enable energy storage in an off-grid mode.

48. An inverter according to claim 47, wherein the off-grid mode involves storing energy in a battery.

49. The inverter of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to regulate each fluid turbine in the cluster of fluid turbines such that the grid connection complies with the at least one predetermined operating parameter.

50. The inverter of claim 49, wherein regulating each fluid turbine comprises controlling a load on each fluid turbine.

51. The inverter of claim 50, wherein controlling the load on each fluid turbine comprises controlling a brake associated with each fluid turbine.

52. An inverter as claimed in claim 51, wherein each brake is electrically activated.

53. The inverter of claim 51 , wherein each brake is mechanical.

54. The inverter of claim 51 wherein each brake comprises a circuit for shunting a generator winding.

55. The inverter of claim 49, wherein regulating each turbine comprises complying with an MPPT protocol such that each turbine produces power at a maximum power point.

56. The inverter of claim 45, wherein each rectifier is configured to receive a different AC voltage from an associated fluid turbine and convert each different AC voltage to a DC voltage, thereby generating a plurality of DC voltages.

57. The inverter of claim 56, wherein each different AC voltage is a three-phase AC voltage.

58. The inverter of claim 45, wherein the at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid frequency.

59. The inverter of claim 45, wherein the at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid phase.

60. The inverter of claim 45, wherein the at least one predetermined operating parameter is associated with a grid voltage.

61. The inverter of claim 45, wherein confirming that the connection to the grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter comprises receiving a signal from a regulation circuit.

62. The inverter of claim 45, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to sense a power demand associated with a battery and, in response, preferentially transmit the total DC voltage to the battery.

63. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations for delivering power from a cluster of fluid turbines to a power grid, the operations comprising: confirming that connection of the fluid turbine cluster to the electrical grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter; When it is confirmed that the grid connection meets the at least one predetermined operating parameter, inverting the total DC voltage into an AC voltage compatible with the grid, and outputting the AC voltage to the grid; as well as When the grid connection is not confirmed to comply with the at least one predetermined operating parameter, outputting the AC voltage to the grid is prevented.

64. A method of transmitting power from a cluster of fluid turbines to an electrical grid, the method comprising: confirming that connection of the fluid turbine cluster to the electrical grid complies with at least one predetermined operating parameter; When it is confirmed that the grid connection meets the at least one predetermined operating parameter, inverting the total DC voltage into an AC voltage compatible with the grid, and outputting the AC voltage to the grid; as well as When the grid connection is not confirmed to comply with the at least one predetermined operating parameter, outputting the AC voltage to the grid is prevented.

65. A dual-channel fluid turbine controller, the dual-channel fluid turbine controller comprising: At least one processor configured to: receiving a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating power fluctuations produced by the fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold; Access MPPT protocol; Determining a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol; applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to a generator of the fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol, wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator; receiving a second signal via a DC channel, the second signal indicating a level of energy stored in the capacitor; and The second signal is used to determine when to release the stored energy.

66. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the first signal is received from a voltage sensor connected to the AC channel.

67. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the correspondence between the first signal and the first portion of the MPPT protocol is determined at least in part using a machine learning algorithm.

68. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to use the first signal to detect at least one anomaly associated with power generated by the fluid turbine.

69. The dual channel controller of claim 68, wherein the at least one anomaly indicates a violation.

70. The dual channel controller of claim 68, wherein the at least one anomaly indicates a mechanical defect.

71. The dual channel controller of claim 65 wherein applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator comprises modifying a load on the fluid turbine via a DC-DC converter of the generator.

72. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to release energy stored in the at least one capacitor to the grid when the energy level at least reaches the grid power threshold.

73. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to subsequently release energy stored in the at least one capacitor to smooth power released to the grid during subsequent operation of the fluid turbine to produce power above the grid power threshold.

74. The dual channel controller of claim 65, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to intermittently release energy stored in the at least one capacitor to power circuits within the fluid turbine.

75. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations of dual-channel fluid turbine control, the operations comprising: receiving a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating power fluctuations produced by the fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold; Access MPPT protocol; Determining a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol; applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to a generator of the fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol, wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator; receiving a second signal via the DC channel, the second signal indicating a level of energy stored in the capacitor; and The second signal is used to determine when to release the stored energy.

76. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, wherein the first signal is received from a voltage sensor connected to the AC channel.

77. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 75, wherein the correspondence between the first signal and the first portion of the MPPT protocol is determined at least in part using a machine learning algorithm.

78. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, further comprising using the first signal to detect at least one anomaly associated with power generated by the fluid turbine.

79. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 78, wherein the at least one anomaly indicates damage or a mechanical defect.

80. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, wherein applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to the generator comprises modifying a load on the fluid turbine via a DC-DC converter of the generator.

81. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, further comprising releasing energy stored in the at least one capacitor to the grid when the energy level reaches at least the grid power threshold.

82. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, further comprising subsequently releasing energy stored in the at least one capacitor to smooth power released to a grid during subsequent operation of the fluid turbine to generate power above the grid power threshold.

83. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 75, further comprising intermittently releasing energy stored in the at least one capacitor to power circuitry within the fluid turbine.

84. A method for dual channel control of a fluid turbine, the method comprising: receiving a first signal via an AC channel coupled to an AC output of a fluid turbine, the first signal indicating power fluctuations produced by the fluid turbine operating below a grid power threshold; Access MPPT protocol; Determining a correspondence between the first signal and a portion of the MPPT protocol; applying the portion of the MPPT protocol to a generator of the fluid turbine to generate greater power than would be generated without applying the portion of the MPPT protocol, wherein the generated power is stored as energy in a capacitor associated with the generator; receiving a second signal via the DC channel, the second signal indicating a level of energy stored in the capacitor; and The second signal is used to determine when to release the stored energy.

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