Power generation system for aircraft and related method

Abstract

A power generation system (1) for powering at least one aircraft power network is disclosed, the system comprising a control device (2) configured to determine a first parameterized setpoint (PCONS1) of a first converter (C1) and a second parameterized setpoint (PCONS2) of a second converter (C2). The control device (2) is configured to determine a first power target (PBP1 *) as a function of the distribution voltage setpoint (VDC *) and the measured value of the distribution voltage (VDC), and to determine a second power target (PBP2 *) as a function of the measured value of the first power (PBP), the measured value of the second power (PHP), and the power generation setpoint (PECU). Default selection of the second power target (PBP2 *) as a first power setpoint (PBP *); in the event of a failure in the power supply of the second converter (C2), the first power target value (PBP1 *) is selected as a first power setpoint value (PBP *).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric power generation system for an aircraft, and more generally, to a hybrid electric power system for an aircraft. Background Art

[0002] Climate change is a major issue of concern to numerous legislative and regulatory bodies worldwide. Various carbon emission restriction measures have been, are being, or will be implemented by countries. In particular, an ambitious standard applies to new and existing in-service aircraft, requiring the implementation of technical solutions to bring them into compliance with current regulations. For many years, the civil aviation industry has been working on addressing climate change.

[0003] Technical research work has significantly improved the environmental performance of aircraft. The applicant takes into account influencing factors at all design and development stages to obtain aircraft components and products with lower energy consumption and greater environmental friendliness, and to have a moderate environmental impact during their integration and use in the civil aviation industry, aiming to improve the energy efficiency of aircraft.

[0004] This ongoing research and development work has particularly focused on the new generation of hybrid thermoelectric aircraft engines. The applicant's goal is to develop aircraft integrating high-power electric power generation systems. This will allow an increase in the proportion of on-board electrical equipment to reduce fuel consumption.

[0005] In fact, in traditional aircraft turbomachinery, it is known to integrate an electric power generator that obtains mechanical energy from the low-pressure shaft of the aircraft turbomachinery to generate electrical energy that is distributed to the electrical power distribution unit.

[0006] To increase the generation of electrical energy, refer to Figure 1 , there is proposed an electric power generation system 100 that is configured to obtain mechanical energy from the low-pressure shaft BP of the aircraft turbomachinery T on the one hand and from the high-pressure shaft HP on the other hand to provide a calibrated distribution voltage to the electrical power network REA of the aircraft. In other words, the electric power generation system 100 includes at least two power channels, namely the BP channel and the HP channel. The electric power generation system 100 can also be connected to a power source BAT or an electrical load LOAD.

[0007] In fact, the electric power generation system 100 is configured to receive a power generation setpoint P ECU . The power generation setpoint P ECU is used to determine, for example, the amount of electrical power to be generated, the acquisition of mechanical energy from each shaft, etc. In other words, the power generation setpoint P ECU is used to determine the selected hybrid power strategy.

[0008] Refer to Figure 2, the power generation system 100 includes two generators G1, G2, which are respectively connected to the low-pressure shaft BP and the high-pressure shaft HP of the turbomachine T. The power generation system 100 also includes two converters C1, C2 respectively associated with the two generators G1, G2, in particular inverters. Each generator G1, G2 generates alternating current, which is then rectified by its converter C1, C2 to provide a distribution voltage V to the power distribution unit EDU DC , the power distribution unit EDU is electrically connected to the aircraft electrical network REA, the power supply BAT or the electrical load LOAD.

[0009] This example shows an application example related to power generation, but the present invention is more widely applicable to the field of hybrid power, where the electric machine on the one hand performs the generator function, obtaining mechanical power from the low-pressure shaft BP or the high-pressure shaft HP, and on the other hand performs the motor function, injecting mechanical power into the low-pressure shaft BP or the high-pressure shaft HP. For the motor function, each converter C1, C2 can also convert the DC voltage V DC to provide alternating current to the two electric machines G1, G2 respectively for power injection.

[0010] For clarity and conciseness, only the generator function is shown. For the motor function, the calculation unit ECU provides an injection setpoint P ECU , to determine, for example, the mechanical power injection of each shaft, etc. The hybrid system is a bidirectional system to allow the generation of electrical power and the injection of mechanical power.

[0011] In a known manner, each converter C1, C2 includes a plurality of switches, in particular power transistors, which allow the adjustment of the generated electrical power and the electrical power obtained by each generator G1, G2 from each shaft BP, HP. The power generation system 100 includes a control device 200, which, according to the power generation setpoint P ECU , issues a parameterized setpoint P CONS1 、P CONS2 , to obtain a distribution voltage V adapted to the power distribution unit EDU DC .

[0012] In the prior art, see Figures 3 to 5 , a variety of control devices 200a, 200b, 200c are known for providing parameterized setpoints P CONS1 、P CONS2 to the converters C1, C2 of each power channel V1, V2.

[0013] See Figure 3 , the known control device 200a includes a first regulation unit 201a and a second regulation unit 202a, which respectively according to the power generation setpoint PECUPower setting values P are provided to the first processing unit 203a and the second processing unit 204a BP* and P HP* . In this way, each regulating unit 201a, 202a can independently implement the hybrid power strategy determined by the power generation set value P ECU . The first processing unit 203a and the second processing unit 204a respectively provide parameterized setting values P BP* and P HP* to the first converter C1 and the second converter C2 CONS1 and P CONS2 . In this example, each regulating unit 201a, 202a independently regulates each converter C1, C2 by comparing the distributed voltage V DC with the distributed voltage set value V DC* and considering the power generation set value P ECU . In this example, the power channels V1 and V2 are symmetric.

[0014] Although this "decentralized" architecture is simple and robust, its disadvantage is that it will produce non-zero static errors. For example, the distributed voltage V DC provided to the power distribution unit EDU depends on the load level of the power distribution unit EDU, which requires templates covering a large fluctuation range. This increases the cost and complexity of the power distribution unit EDU. In addition, this type of regulation highly depends on the measured value of the distributed voltage V DC , which means that the acquisition chain of the measured value of the distributed voltage V DC must have high precision, thus increasing the cost and complexity.

[0015] See Figure 4 , there is also known a control device 200b including an equalizing unit 201b, and the equalizing unit 201b provides a first parameterized setting value P ECU to the first converter C1 according to the power generation set value P CONS1 . Similar to Figure 3 , the control device 200b includes a regulating unit 202b and a processing unit 203b. The regulating unit 202b performs independent regulation by comparing the measured value of the distributed voltage V DC with the distributed voltage set value V DC* to provide a power setting value P HP* . The processing unit 203b provides a parameterized setting value P HP* to the second converter C2 according to the power setting value P CONS2 . In this example, the power channels V1 and V2 are asymmetric.

[0016] The advantage of this alternative "decentralized" architecture is that it ensures the independence between the equalization unit 201b and the regulation unit 202b and the processing unit 203b. However, in the case of the failure of the regulation unit 202b and / or the processing unit 203b, the robustness of this architecture is poor. The equalization unit 201b may need a long time to reconfigure during the "power" time, which may lead to partial power interruption. In addition, the equalization unit 201b must continuously receive the power generation setpoint P ECU to operate.

[0017] See Figure 5 , and a control device 200c is also known, which includes a regulation unit 202c that compares the measured value of the distribution voltage V DC with the distribution voltage setpoint V DC* to provide the power setpoint P HP* . The control device 200c includes an equalization unit 201c that provides the parameterized setpoints P ECU and P HP* to the converters C1 and C2 according to the power generation setpoint P CONS1 and the power setpoint P CONS2 . In this example, the power channels V1 and V2 are symmetric.

[0018] The advantage of this "centralized" architecture is its robustness in the case of the failure of the regulation unit 202c or the partial operation of the equalization unit 201c. The disadvantage of this architecture is that it requires fast communication greater than 10 kHz between the regulation unit 202c and the equalization unit 201c to transmit the power setpoint P HP* . To achieve this goal, a dedicated computing unit needs to be provided to ensure the transmission of the power setpoint P HP* between the regulation unit 202c (HP generation side) and the equalization unit 201c (BP generation side), which increases the computing requirements and raises the cost.

[0019] The present invention aims to provide a power generation system that eliminates at least some of the above disadvantages.

[0020] US20180291807A1 and US2021380264A1 teach a system and method for distributing electrical power to an aircraft. Summary of the Invention

[0021] The present invention relates to a power generation system for providing power to at least one electrical network of an aircraft, the aircraft including at least one aircraft turbomachine, the turbomachine including a low-pressure shaft and a high-pressure shaft configured to be driven to rotate, the power generation system configured to receive a power generation setpoint defining a hybrid power strategy, the power generation system comprising: - The first power channel, which includes: - A first generator configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from one of a low-pressure shaft or a high-pressure shaft, - A first converter associated with the first generator for converting the generated alternating current into a first distribution current according to its parameterization, the first converter generating a first power as a function of a distribution voltage, - The second power channel, which includes: - A second generator configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from the other of a low-pressure shaft or a high-pressure shaft, - A second converter associated with the second generator for converting the generated alternating current into a second distribution current according to its parameterization, the second converter generating a second power as a function of a distribution voltage, - A control device configured to determine a first parameterization setpoint of the first converter and a second parameterization setpoint of the second converter, the control device including: - A first processing unit configured to determine the first parameterization setpoint of the first converter based on a first power setpoint, - A second processing unit configured to determine the second parameterization setpoint of the second converter based on a second power setpoint, - A first regulation unit configured to determine a first power target according to a distribution voltage setpoint and a measured value of the distribution voltage, - A second regulation unit configured to determine a second power setpoint according to a distribution voltage setpoint and a measured value of the distribution voltage, - A hybrid power unit configured to determine a second power target according to a measured value of the first power, a measured value of the second power, and a power generation setpoint, - A selection unit configured to default select the second power target as the first power setpoint and select the first power target as the first power setpoint when an electrical power failure occurs in the second converter.

[0022] Preferably, the second power target corresponds to a default power target that allows following a hybrid strategy. The first power target is determined by voltage regulation and serves as a backup target when the hybrid strategy may no longer be satisfied. Preferably, the second power target can be transmitted via a slow communication line, and in case of a failure, the first power target can quickly take over.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power generation system includes at least one determination module configured to determine a first power and a second power based on a measured value of a first allocated current, a measured value of a second allocated current, and a measured value of an allocated voltage. The allocated current can be simply and reactively measured at the output of the converter, thereby allowing a reliable determination of the second power target. In this way, the hybrid power strategy is strictly followed.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power generation setpoint defines at least one ratio of the first power to the total generated power. In this way, an accurate power balance compliant with the hybrid power strategy can be achieved.

[0025] Preferably, the hybrid power unit is configured to determine the second power target in a closed-loop manner. This has the advantage of ensuring an accurate power balance between the converters.

[0026] In one aspect, the power generation system includes at least one power distribution unit powered by a converter with an allocated voltage. The distribution unit is preferably in the form of a bus.

[0027] According to a preferred aspect, the hybrid power unit belongs to the power distribution unit. In this way, the hybrid power unit can balance the computing resources of the distribution unit. No additional computing unit is required. Preferably, the determination module belongs to the power distribution unit. Even more preferably, the power distribution unit is configured to determine the power generation setpoint.

[0028] According to one aspect of the present invention, the power generation system includes: - at least one third power channel including at least one third converter powered by a third power source for generating a third allocated current according to its parameterization, the third converter generating a third power as a function of the allocated voltage, - a hybrid power unit configured to determine a second power target based on measured values of the first power, the second power, the third power, and the power generation setpoint.

[0029] According to one aspect, the selection unit is configured to default select the second power target as the first power setpoint and select the first power target as the first power setpoint in case of an electrical power failure of the second converter and / or the third converter.

[0030] Preferably, the third converter is associated with a battery. The third converter is preferably of the DC / DC type.

[0031] Preferably, each generator is in the form of an electromechanical machine configured to inject mechanical energy into one of a low-pressure shaft or a high-pressure shaft (motor function). The converter associated with the generator is a bidirectional converter.

[0032] The present invention also relates to a power generation method for supplying power to at least one electrical network of an aircraft by means of a power generation system as described above, the aircraft comprising at least one aircraft turbomachine, the turbomachine comprising a low-pressure shaft and a high-pressure shaft configured to be driven in rotation, the method comprising the following steps: - Receiving a power generation setpoint defining a hybrid power strategy, - Determining a first parameterization setpoint of a first converter based on a first power setpoint, - Determining a second parameterization setpoint of a second converter based on a second power setpoint, - Determining a first power target based on a distribution voltage setpoint and a measured value of the distribution voltage, - Determining a second power setpoint based on a distribution voltage setpoint and a measured value of the distribution voltage, - Determining a second power target based on a measured value of the first power, a measured value of the second power and a power generation setpoint, - By default, selecting the second power target as the first power setpoint, and selecting the first power target as the first power setpoint in the event of a failure of the electrical power of the second converter.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a computer program product comprising at least one sequence of instructions stored and readable by a processor, and which, once read by the processor, causes the steps of the method as described above to be executed.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a computer-readable medium comprising the above computer program. Description of the Drawings

[0035] The present invention given by way of example can be better understood by reading the following description and by referring to the following drawings given as non-limiting examples, in which the same reference numerals denote similar objects.

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a power generation system for obtaining mechanical energy from an aircraft turbomachine.

[0037] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the power generation system and its generator, converter, power distribution unit and control device.

[0038] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the control device.

[0039] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the control device.

[0040] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the control device.

[0041] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of a power generation system according to the present invention.

[0042] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a power generation system.

[0043] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a power generation system.

[0044] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a power generation system.

[0045] Figure 10 is Figure 9 a schematic diagram of the control module in

[0046] Figure 11 Schematic diagram of a power distribution unit integrating a hybrid power unit.

[0047] It should be noted that the drawings show in detail the embodiments of the present invention for facilitating the implementation of the present invention. Of course, the drawings can also be used to better define the present invention when necessary. Detailed Embodiments

[0048] Refer to Figure 6 , which shows the power generation system 1 of an aircraft. The aircraft includes a turbomachine T, and the turbomachine T includes a low-pressure shaft BP and a high-pressure shaft HP. In this example, the turbomachine T includes a low-pressure compressor 71 and a low-pressure turbine 74 connected by the low-pressure shaft BP, and a high-pressure compressor 72 and a high-pressure turbine 73 connected by the high-pressure shaft HP.

[0049] The power generation system 1 is configured to obtain mechanical energy from the low-pressure shaft BP and from the high-pressure shaft HP to provide a calibrated voltage to the electrical network REA of the aircraft. The power generation system 1 can also be connected to a power supply BAT or an electrical device LOAD that needs to be powered.

[0050] In fact, as will be seen later, the power generation system more generally allows power hybridization in order to obtain power from the turbomachine T or inject power into it.

[0051] The power generation system 1 is configured to receive a power generation setpoint P ECU from the calculation unit ECU of the turbomachine T. ECU This power generation setpoint P ECU can be used to determine, for example, the amount of electrical power required to be generated, the acquisition of mechanical energy of each shaft, etc. In other words, the power generation setpoint P ECU is in the form of a power setpoint called "PS setpoint" or a power balance setpoint called "PS mode".

[0052] See Figure 6 and Figure 7 ,the power generation system 1 includes two generators G1, G2 respectively connected to the low-pressure shaft BP and the high-pressure shaft HP of the turbomachine T. The power generation system 1 includes: - A first power channel V1, which includes: - A first generator G1 configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from the low-pressure shaft BP, - A first converter C1 associated with the first generator G1 for converting the generated alternating current into a first distribution current I according to its parameterization DC1 ,the first converter C1 generates a first power P as a function of the distribution voltage V DC BP , - A second power channel V2, which includes: - A second generator G2 configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from the high-pressure shaft HP, - A second converter C2 associated with the second generator G2 for converting the generated alternating current into a second distribution current I according to its parameterization DC2 ,the second converter C2 generates a second power P as a function of the distribution voltage V DC HP .

[0053] In this example, the first power channel V1 is associated with power extraction from the low-pressure shaft BP, while the second power channel V2 is associated with power extraction from the high-pressure shaft HP. Of course, the reverse is also possible.

[0054] In this example, the generators G1, G2 are preferably electromechanical machines capable of operating in both generator mode and motor mode. In a known manner, each electromechanical machine includes a rotor fixed to a rotating shaft (in this case, the BP shaft or the HP shaft) and a stator containing windings to generate three-phase alternating current. Preferably, the rotational speed w and angular position θ of each generator G1, G2 are available. The structure and operation of such electromechanical machines are well known and will not be discussed in further detail.

[0055] Refer to Figure 6 ,the power generation system 1 includes a power distribution unit EDU, which is electrically connected to the electrical network REA, power supply BAT or electrical load LOAD of the aircraft.

[0056] Each converter C1, C2 can provide the distribution voltage V to the power distribution unit EDU DC . Preferably, the power distribution unit EDU includes a voltage bus.

[0057] ​​In a known manner, each of the converters C1, C2 includes a plurality of switches, in particular transistors, which allow the adjustment of the generated electrical power and the mechanical power obtained from each of the shafts BP, HP in order to adjust the distribution current I as required. DC1 , I DC2 .

[0058] According to the invention, referring to Figure 6 , the electric power generation system 1 includes a control device 2 which is configured to determine a first parameterized setpoint P CONS1 for the first converter C1 and a second parameterized setpoint P CONS2 for the second converter C2.

[0059] Preferably, each of the parameterized setpoints P CONS1 , P CONS2 is in the form of a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. Such parameterized setpoints P CONS1 , P CONS2 are used to control the switching of the transistors of the converters C1, C2.

[0060] Referring to Figure 7 , the control device 2 includes a first processing unit 12 which is configured to determine the first parameterized setpoint P BP* for the first converter C1 based on the first power setpoint P CONS1 . Additionally, the control device 2 includes a first regulation unit 11 which is configured to determine a first power target P DC* based on the measured values of the distribution voltage setpoint V DC and the distribution voltage V BP1* .

[0061] As Figure 7 shown, the first regulation unit 11 implements a regulation loop with zero static error using a corrector (such as a proportional-integral type PI) in order to determine the first power target P DC * based on the measured values of the distribution voltage setpoint V DC and the distribution voltage V BP1* . In fact, the first power target P BP1* is determined in a manner similar to the prior art.

[0062] According to one aspect, referring to Figure 8 , the first processing unit 12 includes a first module 121 which implements an algorithm that converts the first power setpoint P BP* into two current setpoints I D* / I Q* , taking into account the rotational speed w and the angular position θ of the first generator G1 as well as the measured value of the distribution voltage V DC .

[0063] Still referring to Figure 8 the first processing unit 12 further includes a second module 122 that implements a current loop, and this current loop is configured to be based on the three-phase current I in the first converter C1 ABC measurement value, the angular position θ of the first power generator G1, and the current set value I from the first module 121 D* / I Q* to define the first parameterization set value P of the first converter C1 CONS1 .

[0064] Such regulating units and processing units are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be further shown in detail.

[0065] According to the present invention, still referring to Figure 7 the control device 2 includes a second processing unit 22, and the second processing unit 22 is configured to determine the second parameterization set value P for the second converter C2 based on the second power set value P HP* . CONS2

[0066] Similar to the channel BP, the control device 2 includes a second regulating unit 21, and the second regulating unit 21 is configured to determine the second power set value P according to the assigned voltage set value V DC* and the measured value of the assigned voltage V DC . HP*

[0067] As Figure 7 shown, similar to the BP channel, the second regulating unit 21 uses a corrector (such as a proportional-integral type PI) to implement a regulating loop with zero static error to determine the second power set value P according to the assigned voltage set value V DC* and the measured value of the assigned voltage V DC . HP* Actually, the determination method of the second power set value P HP* is similar to that of the prior art.

[0068] Similarly, referring to Figure 8 the second processing unit 22 includes a first module 221, and this first module 221 implements an algorithm that converts the second power set value P HP* into two current set values I D* / I Q* , while considering the rotational speed w and angular position θ of the second generator G2 and the measured value of the assigned voltage V DC .

[0069] The second processing unit 22 further includes a second module 222 that implements a current loop, and this current loop is used to be based on the three-phase current I in the second converter C2 ABC ​​The measured value, the angular position θ of the second power generator G2, and the current setpoint I from the first module 221 D* / I Q* , defining the second parameterized setpoint P of the second converter C2 CONS2 .

[0070] According to the present invention, referring to Figure 7 , the control device 2 includes a hybrid unit 3, which is configured to determine a second power target P based on the measured value of the first distributed power P of the first converter C1 BP , the measured value of the second distributed power P of the second converter C2 HP , and the power generation setpoint P ECU . BP2* .

[0071] Preferably, the hybrid unit 3 can determine an alternative target for the first power target P BP1* .

[0072] In fact, the hybrid unit 3 compares the power generation setpoint P ECU with the power measurement values P BP , P HP in order to determine the second power target P that allows the power generation setpoint P ECU to be reached. For example, if the power generation setpoint P BP2* requires that the first distributed power P ECU corresponds to X% of the total power and the second distributed power P BP corresponds to a power balance setpoint of 100 - X% of the total power, then by considering the power measurement values P HP , P BP , P HP , the second power target P BP2* is adjusted to achieve the required power balance.

[0073] The second power target P BP2* is the default power target for the hybrid strategy. The first power target P BP1* is determined by voltage regulation and corresponds to an emergency target in the event of a failure in the second power channel V2. The second power target P BP2* is determined in a closed-loop manner, which ensures an accurate power balance between the converters C1, C2.

[0074] As Figure 8 shown, the control device 2 includes a determination module 31, which is configured to determine the first power P based on the measured value of the distributed current I of the first converter C1 DC1 , the measured value of the distributed current I of the second converter C2 DC2 , and the measured value of the distributed voltage V DC . BPand a second power P HP .

[0075] Typically, each power P BP , P HP is calculated by multiplying the allocated currents I DC1 and I DC2 by the allocated voltage V DC respectively.

[0076] To this end, as Figure 8 shown, it is determined that the module 31 includes the current sensor 8 at the output of the converters C1 and C2. This allows for the reactive determination of the first power P BP of the first converter C1 and the second power P HP of the second converter C2.

[0077] Still referring to Figure 7 , the control device 2 includes a selection unit 4, which is configured to use the first power target P EDU or the second power target P EC2 as the first power setpoint P BP1* or the second power setpoint P BP2* according to the operating states of the various elements of the power generation system 1, in particular the operating state S BP* of the power distribution unit and the operating state S

[0078] Preferably, the selection unit 4 defaults to selecting the second power target P BP2*， to implement a hybrid power strategy. When the operating state indicates a fault, the selection unit 4 selects the first power target P BP1* instead of the second power target P BP2* . In this way, the first power target P BP1* can perform a "backup" function to regulate the voltage in all cases.

[0079] Advantageously, the control device 2 according to the invention has a decentralized architecture, which allows for precise closed-loop power balancing to be ensured even during normal operation. Advantageously, the control device 2 can be reconfigured in the event of a fault or the elimination of a fault. The control device 2 allows for asymmetric control, where the second power channel V2 is autonomously controlled and the first power channel V1 adapts to the operating state of the second power channel V2.

[0080] Referring to Figure 7 , the selection unit 4 is configured to use the first power target P DC when a non-quality signal S QUA of the allocated voltage V BP1* is detected. To this end, referring to Figure 7, the control device 2 includes a distribution hybrid unit 5 configured to compare the measured value of the distribution voltage V DC over time with a voltage template GAB. In a known manner, the voltage template GAB determines the allowable nominal variation range of the distribution voltage V DC and the abnormal variation range within which the distribution voltage V DC can deviate from the nominal variation range within a maximum allowable duration. If the measured value of the distribution voltage V DC does not conform to the voltage template GAB, the distribution hybrid unit 5 sends a non-quality signal S QUA to use the first power target P BP1* . Thus, even if a fault in the distribution unit EDU is not detected, if the distribution voltage V DC drops, the distribution hybrid unit 5 can activate an emergency target. This improves the performance of the control device 2.

[0081] In this example, the selection unit 4 is configured to use the first power target P BP1* or the second power target P BP2* . The selection unit can also select the second power target P BP1* by saturating the first power target P BP2* in order to reach the second power target P BP2* .

[0082] When the second power target P BP2* is selected as the first power setpoint P BP* , the first regulation unit 11 implements an "anti-integral saturation" function to avoid changing the power setpoint P BP1* .

[0083] This example shows an application example related to power generation, but the present invention is more widely applicable to the field of hybrid power, where the electric machine on the one hand performs a generator function, obtaining mechanical power from the low-pressure shaft BP or the high-pressure shaft HP, and on the other hand performs a motor function, injecting mechanical power into the low-pressure shaft BP or the high-pressure shaft HP. For the motor function, the converters C1, C2 can also convert the DC voltage V DC to supply alternating current to the two electric machines G1, G2 respectively for power injection.

[0084] For clarity and conciseness, only the generator function is shown. For the engine function, the calculation unit ECU provides an injection setpoint P ECU to determine, for example, the mechanical power injection on each shaft, etc. The hybrid system is a bi-directional system to allow for the generation of electrical power as well as the injection of mechanical power.

[0085] The present invention is proposed for a power generation system 1 comprising two power channels V1, V2, but the present invention is equally applicable in the case where there is one or more other power channels V3, in particular a battery BAT, as Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, supplying a third distribution current I to the power distribution unit EDU DC3 . For clarity, the second power channel V2 is not shown in these figures.

[0086] Referring to Figure 9 The power generation system 1 comprises a battery BAT electrically connected to the power distribution unit EDU via a third converter C3 (here of the DC / DC type).

[0087] The control device 2 is configured to determine a third parameterized setpoint P of the third converter C3 CONS3 . To this end, the control device 2 comprises a control module 6, which is configured to determine the third parameterized setpoint P according to a power generation setpoint P ECU . Referring to CONS3 , the control module 6 comprises: Figure 10 - A first module 61, which is configured to determine a measured value of a third power P based on a measured value of a third distribution current I at the output of the third converter C3 and a measured value of a distribution voltage V DC3 ; DC - A second module 62, which is configured to determine a third power setpoint P based on the third power P BAT and the power generation setpoint P ; BAT - A third module 63, which is configured to determine a third current setpoint I based on the third power setpoint P ECU and a measured value of the distribution voltage V BAT* ; - A fourth module 64, which is configured to determine the third parameterized setpoint P based on a measured value of the third distribution current I BAT* and the third current setpoint I DC , preferably by forming a current loop. DC3* ; - A fourth module 64, which is configured to determine the third parameterized setpoint P based on a measured value of the third distribution current I DC3 and the third current setpoint I DC3* , preferably by forming a current loop. CONS3 This enables the power generation system 1 to be scalable and to take into account more than two power sources to supply power to the power distribution unit EDU.

[0088] In the embodiment shown in

[0089] In Figure 7 shown, the hybrid unit 3 is schematically shown as being independent of the power distribution unit EDU. Referring to Figure 11, the hybrid power unit 3 is integrated with the power distribution unit EDU to optimize computing resources. Preferably, the computing unit ECU for determining the power generation setpoint P ECU is also integrated in the power distribution unit EDU, which further optimizes computing resources. Advantageously, this allows for the formation of a power distribution unit EDU that not only performs its normal functions but also provides a second power target P BP2* .

Claims

1. An electric power generation system (1) for supplying power to at least one electrical network (REA) of an aircraft, the aircraft comprising at least one aircraft turbomachine (T), the turbomachine comprising a low-pressure shaft (BP) and a high-pressure shaft (HP) configured to be driven in rotation, the electric power generation system (1) being configured to receive a power generation setpoint (P ECU ) defining a hybrid power strategy, the electric power generation system (1) Comprising: - A first power channel (V1), which comprises: - A first generator (G1), configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from one of the low-pressure shaft (BP) and the high-pressure shaft (HP); - A first converter (C1) associated with the first generator (G1) for converting the generated alternating current into a first distribution current (I DC1 ) according to its parameterization, the first converter (C1) generating a first power (P DC ) as a function of the distribution voltage (V BP ). - A second power channel (V2), which comprises: - A second generator (G2), configured to generate alternating current by obtaining mechanical energy from the other of the low-pressure shaft (BP) and the high-pressure shaft (HP); - A second converter (C2) associated with the second generator (G2) for converting the generated alternating current into a second distribution current (I DC2 ) according to its parameterization, the second converter (C2) generating a second power (P DC ) as a function of the distribution voltage (V HP ), - A control device (2) configured to determine a first parameterized setpoint (P CONS1 ) of the first converter (C1) and a second parameterized setpoint (P CONS2 ) of the second converter (C2), the control device (2) comprising: - A first processing unit (12), configured to determine the first parameterized setting value (P BP* ) of the first converter (C1) based on a first power setting value (P CONS1 ), - A second processing unit (22) configured to determine the second parameterized setting value (P HP* ) of the second converter (C2) based on a second power setting value (P CONS2 ). - The first adjustment unit (11), which is configured to determine a first power target (P DC* ) according to the set value of the allocated voltage (V DC ) and the measured value of the allocated voltage (V BP1* ), - A second regulating unit (21), configured to determine a second power setpoint (P DC* ) according to the assigned voltage setpoint (V DC ) and the measured value of the assigned voltage (V HP* ), - A hybrid power unit (3) configured to determine a second power target (P BP ) based on a measured value of the first power (P HP ), a measured value of the second power (P ECU ) and a power generation setpoint (P BP2* ), - A selection unit (4), configured to default select the second power target (P BP2* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ), and to select the first power target (P BP1* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ) when a power failure occurs in the second converter (C2).

2. The power generation system (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least one determination module (31), the determination module being configured to determine the first power (P DC1 ) and the second power (P DC2 ) based on the measured value of the first distributed current (I DC ), the measured value of the second distributed current (I BP ), and the measured value of the distributed voltage (V HP ).

3. The power generation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the power generation setpoint (P ECU ) defines at least one ratio of the first power (P BP ) to the total generated power.

4. The power generation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the hybrid power unit (3) is configured to determine the second power target (P BP2* ) in a closed-loop manner.

5. The power generation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising at least one power distribution unit (EDU) supplied with power by a converter (C1, C2) at a distribution voltage (V DC ).

6. The power generation system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the hybrid unit (3) belongs to the power distribution unit (EDU).

7. The power generation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which Comprises: - At least one third power channel (V3) including at least one third converter (C3), powered by a third power supply (BAT), for generating a third distribution current (I DC3 ) according to its parameterization, the third converter (C3) generating a third power (P DC ) as a function of the distribution voltage (V BAT ), - The hybrid power unit (3) is configured to determine the second power target (P BP ) based on the measured value of the first power (P HP ), the measured value of the second power (P BAT ), the measured value of the third power (P ECU ) and the power generation setpoint (P BP2* ).

8. The power generation system (1) according to claim 7, wherein the selection unit (4) is configured to default select the second power target (P BP2* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ), and when a failure occurs in the electric power provided by the second converter (C2) and / or the third converter (C3), select the first power target (P BP1* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ).

9. A power generation method for supplying power to at least one electrical network (REA) of an aircraft by means of the power generation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the aircraft comprising at least one aircraft turbomachine (T), the turbomachine comprising a low-pressure shaft (BP) and a high-pressure shaft (HP) configured to be driven to rotate, the method Comprises the following steps: - Receive the power generation setpoint (P ECU ) that defines the hybrid strategy - Determine the first parameterized setting value (P BP* ) of the first converter (C1) based on the first power setting value (P CONS1 ). - Determine the second parameterized setting value (P HP* ) of the second converter (C2) based on the second power setting value (P CONS2 ). - Determine the first power target (P DC* ) according to the set value of the distribution voltage (V DC ) and the measured value of the distribution voltage (V BP1* ). - Determine the second power setting value (P DC* ) according to the set value of the distribution voltage (V DC ) and the measured value of the distribution voltage (V HP* ). - Based on the measured value of the first power (P BP ), the measured value of the second power (P HP ), and the power generation setpoint (P ECU ), determine the second power target (P BP2* ), - By default, select the second power target (P BP2* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ), and when there is a failure in the electrical power from the second converter (C2), select the first power target (P BP1* ) as the first power setting value (P BP* ).

10. A computer program product, comprising at least one sequence of instructions stored and readable by a processor, which, once read by the processor, causes the steps of the method according to claim 9 to be executed.

Images