Method for expanding an existing wind turbine and wind turbine module

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for expanding an existing wind turbine, comprising the steps of providing a first wind turbine module, installing the wind turbine module at its intended location, electrically connecting the first wind turbine module and / or a first generator to the existing wind turbine, connecting a first turbine controller to the first wind turbine module and / or the first generator, and connecting the first turbine controller to a central controller. The invention also relates to a wind turbine module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for expanding an existing wind power plant, comprising the following steps: providing a first wind turbine module; installing the wind turbine module at its intended installation location; establishing an electrical connection between the first wind turbine module and / or the first generator and the existing wind power plant; connecting a first turbine controller to the first wind turbine module and / or the first generator; and connecting the first turbine controller to a central controller; the invention also relates to a wind turbine module. Background Technology

[0002] Wind power plants are currently the most important form of wind energy utilization. Conventional wind power plants with output power in the range of several megawatts involve high material and construction costs. Smaller, standardized individual turbines can be manufactured more cost-effectively and can also be transported and installed more economically. Multiple such small wind turbines can be interconnected into a system. Such systems consisting of multiple wind turbines can be scaled up individually and therefore can be applied to many fields, such as infrastructure or urban environments. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for expanding an existing wind power plant in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wind turbine module that allows for the simple and cost-effective expansion of existing wind power plants.

[0005] This objective is achieved by the method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are given in the dependent claims.

[0006] The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to the present invention comprises five method steps: In a first method step, a first wind turbine module is provided. The first wind turbine module includes a first turbine designed and adapted to convert first wind energy into kinetic energy.

[0007] The first wind turbine module also includes a first generator designed and adapted to convert the kinetic energy of the first turbine into electrical power. Existing wind farms include one or more wind turbine modules and are already in operation, generating electrical power through the conversion of wind power.

[0008] The terms “conversion” and “conversion process” are used synonymously in this document and refer to both the change of kinetic power to electrical power and the change of electrical power to another form of electrical power, such as the conversion of direct current to alternating current and vice versa.

[0009] The first wind turbine module also includes a first turbine controller, wherein the first turbine controller is designed and adapted to control the first turbine and / or the first generator. During operation, the first torque of the first generator of the first turbine is adjusted relative to the first wind force acting on the first turbine, so as to produce optimal electrical power output even when the first turbine is operating under partial load.

[0010] Optionally, the voltage and current of the alternating current output by the first generator are also controlled.

[0011] In the second method step, the wind turbine module is installed at its intended installation location. This installation location is, for example, infrastructure (building structure) or a structure such as a building, bridge, and / or mobile communication tower or power tower, which is suitable for accommodating one or more modules.

[0012] In the third method step, an electrical connection is established between the first wind turbine module and / or the first generator and the existing wind power plant. Specifically, the wind turbine module is connected to a busbar via a node, in which the electrical power output of all wind turbine modules arranged in the wind power plant is combined.

[0013] In the fourth method step, the first turbine controller is connected to the first wind turbine module and / or the first generator. The first turbine controller is designed and adapted to control the first turbine module and / or the first generator, and is therefore connected to the first turbine module and / or the first generator.

[0014] In the fifth method step, the first turbine controller is connected to a central controller, wherein the central controller is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first and / or second wind turbine modules and / or the functions of the first and / or second turbine controllers of the wind power plant. The central controller controls and regulates various parameters (e.g., the current and voltage of the wind power plant) through the individual turbine controllers.

[0015] In a further improvement of the invention, the first generator is connected to an electrical bus via a first node, wherein other generators and / or wind turbine modules are connected to the electrical bus. The electrical power output of all wind turbine modules arranged in the wind power plant is combined on this bus.

[0016] In another embodiment of the invention, a first voltage converter is positioned between the first generator and the first node. The conversion of electrical power output from the generator is performed individually for each wind turbine module. The wind power plant generating electrical power according to the method of the invention is therefore modularly constructed: each wind turbine module operates independently of all other wind turbine modules. This improves availability in the event of failure of one or more wind turbine modules and enhances the efficiency of the wind power plant because wind is non-stationary in both time and space. The wind power plant can be easily adapted and configured as needed. Furthermore, optimized control of individual turbines, as well as optimal safety and improved maintenance, are ensured.

[0017] In another embodiment of the invention, the first voltage converter can be controlled by the first turbine controller. Specifically, the voltage and current of the alternating current output by the first generator can optionally be controlled. Furthermore, the control includes boosting the voltage to the user voltage, feed-in voltage, or storage voltage, and monitoring and / or checking safety parameters (e.g., the voltage of the generator and / or the voltage and / or current of the voltage converter).

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, the first voltage converter is part of the first turbine controller. The first voltage converter and the first turbine controller are installed as an integrated unit, thereby being arranged in a weather-independent manner.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a first anemometer is mounted near the first turbine. The first anemometer detects the wind force acting on the first turbine and optionally detects the wind direction. During operation, the first torque of the first generator of the first turbine is adjusted by the first turbine controller relative to the first wind force acting on the first turbine, so as to produce optimal electrical power output even when the first turbine is operating under partial load.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the first anemometer is connected to the first turbine controller. The first anemometer is connected to the first turbine controller to detect the first wind force.

[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller is connected to the second turbine controller of the second wind turbine module. Specifically, all turbine controllers are connected in series and / or in parallel with each other and are connected to the central controller.

[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the second turbine controller has the same or similar functional range as the first turbine controller relative to the first wind turbine module. Specifically, the voltage and current of the AC power output from the first generator may optionally be controlled. Furthermore, the control includes boosting the voltage to the user voltage, feed-in voltage, or stored voltage, and monitoring and / or checking safety parameters (e.g., the voltage of the generator and / or the voltage and / or current of the voltage converter).

[0023] In another embodiment of the invention, the second turbine controller is connected to another turbine controller and / or the central controller. Specifically, all turbine controllers are connected in series and / or in parallel with each other and are connected to the central controller.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller is initialized. During initialization, the central controller checks communication connectivity and offline / online operation. During the initialization of the distributed turbine controller, each turbine is addressed / named, and internal function checks are performed.

[0025] In another embodiment of the invention, during initialization, the voltage of the output power is defined, wherein the output power of a single wind turbine module depends, for example, on the wind conditions, the wind condition data of which is provided by an anemometer.

[0026] In another embodiment of the invention, the wind farm includes multiple wind turbine modules, each with a separate dedicated turbine controller, and each individual turbine controller is actuable by a central controller. Each wind turbine module operates independently of all other wind turbine modules. This improves availability in the event of a failure of one or more wind turbine modules and enhances the efficiency of the wind farm due to the non-stationary nature of wind in both time and space. The wind farm can be easily adapted and configured to meet demand. Furthermore, optimized control of individual turbines, along with optimal safety and improved maintenance, are ensured.

[0027] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller controls the first generator, wherein the control is performed using a speed-torque characteristic curve. The first turbine controller accordingly adjusts the settings of a speed controller for power variations. Power variations can be power reduction or power increase. The speed controller is adjusted until the system power equals the demand power on the load side, or if the system power is insufficient to meet the demand power, the system power is less than the demand power. The central control unit here acts as a data logger and records the demand power and the generated power. In the event of a positive or negative deviation, the appropriately adjusted setpoint is sent to one or all turbine controllers.

[0028] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller detects, checks, and monitors one or more safety parameters of the first wind turbine module, wherein the one or more safety parameters are one or more parameters from the group consisting of: rotational speed, generator temperature, voltage of the first generator, and / or voltage and / or current of the first converter / rectifier. Thresholds (e.g., overspeed thresholds or overheat thresholds) are assigned to the safety parameters, and when these thresholds are exceeded, the first turbine controller intervenes in the operation of the turbine and / or generator and / or triggers data and / or messages to the central controller and / or other system components.

[0029] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller controls the start-up of the first turbine from a standstill, wherein the first generator is used as a motor, and the electrical energy for operating the first generator as a motor is derived from a grid connection and / or from a connected energy storage device. The first turbine controller controls a so-called propulsion function according to commands from a central controller. This is a start-up aid at low wind speeds. Signals sent to the distributed turbine controller regulate the use of the first generator as a motor to start the first turbine by overcoming initial torque at low wind speeds.

[0030] In another embodiment of the invention, the central controller acts as a data logger for safety and operating parameters for each wind turbine module and the entire wind power plant. The central control unit records the required power and the generated power. In the event of positive or negative deviations, appropriately adjusted setpoints are sent to one or all turbines.

[0031] In another embodiment of the invention, the central controller provides software updates for the wind power plant and / or individual wind turbine modules, provides environmental parameters (e.g., wind speed and direction), and monitors system protection and / or safety components as well as communication with the wind turbines. According to the invention, the following data are recorded, generated, and / or processed in the central controller and / or in one, more, or all distributed turbine controllers: monitoring information about operating status, and predictive maintenance data (predictive fault detection; prediction of maintenance needs prior to impending system failure). For this purpose, machine learning (ML) or artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms are applied to process and evaluate the data.

[0032] In another embodiment of the invention, energy consumption forecasts are applied and / or compared with wind forecasts used for energy production forecasts by evaluating local weather data using AI / ML and IoT methods and processes. This directly enables the dynamic selection of energy sources—generators, energy storage devices, or grid power—for economic and technical reasons (e.g., depending on energy prices on electricity exchanges).

[0033] In another embodiment of the present invention, the central controller monitors the load side and the communication with the load side, wherein each turbine is controlled based on information from the load side. Accordingly, the settings of the speed controller for power variation are adjusted. The power variation can be a power reduction or a power increase. The speed controller is adjusted until the system power is equal to the demanded power of the load side, or if the system power is not sufficient to meet the demanded power, the system power is less than the demanded power.

[0034] In another embodiment of the present invention, the central controller controls and switches each turbine according to operating parameters, safety parameters and environmental parameters, wherein the central controller switches the wind turbine module between standby and normal operation. In standby operation, one or more turbines are placed in the standby mode. This may occur, for example, when the wind is insufficient or for maintenance purposes. The central control unit sends a standby signal to one or more turbine controllers of one or more turbines. The standby signal may include, for example, the wind speed or information about the wind speed (V_wind < V_min) or a command for standby operation.

[0035] In another embodiment of the present invention, remote access to the decentralized turbine controller and the wind turbine module is provided by the central controller, and options for intervening in the operation of the system or each turbine and / or access to the data of the data logger are provided through this remote access. A connection with the central controller and the turbine controller is established through a secure data protocol. Authorized users can directly or indirectly intervene in the operation of the wind power plant through a suitable interface.

[0036] In another embodiment of the present invention, the central controller controls the startup of the first turbine, wherein a signal is sent from the central controller to the first turbine controller, and the first generator is controlled to act as a motor through this signal. The first turbine controller controls the so-called boost function according to the command of the central controller. This is a startup assistance at low wind speeds by overcoming the initial torque resistance of the first generator.

[0037] In another embodiment of the present invention, the user voltage is predefined by the central controller. The definition of the user voltage is carried out during the initialization of the central controller.

[0038] This object is also achieved by a wind turbine module for generating and / or feeding in electrical power according to the present invention. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are also given in the dependent claims.

[0039] A wind turbine module for generating and / or feeding in electrical power according to the present invention includes a first turbine. Through this first turbine, the first wind power can be converted into first kinetic energy.

[0040] The wind turbine module according to the invention further includes a first generator, wherein the first generator is designed and adapted to convert the kinetic energy of the first turbine into electrical power. Therefore, the first generator is assigned to and mechanically connected to the first turbine.

[0041] The wind turbine module according to the invention also includes a first turbine controller, wherein the first turbine and the first generator can be controlled by the first turbine controller.

[0042] The first turbine controller controls and regulates the following: the first generator (speed-torque characteristic curve), rectification of the generator voltage of the first turbine, boosting the voltage to the user voltage, feed voltage, or storage voltage, measurement, monitoring, and / or checking of safety parameters, control of fail-safe brakes (e.g., when one or more safety parameter thresholds are reached), use of (internal) load resistance to compensate for voltage or current spikes when one or more safety parameters (preferably current and / or voltage) exceed the threshold, and starting assistance for the first turbine when starting from a standstill. The first generator is briefly used in motor mode before switching back to generator mode.

[0043] According to the present invention, the wind turbine module can be connected to an electrical bus, wherein the first turbine controller can be connected to the central controller of the wind power plant. The electrical power output of all wind turbine modules arranged in the wind power plant is combined on this bus.

[0044] Therefore, the wind power plant according to the invention is modularly constructed: each wind turbine module operates independently of all other wind turbine modules. This improves availability in the event of a failure in a wind turbine module and enhances the efficiency of the wind power plant because wind is non-stationary in both time and space. The wind power plant can be easily adapted and configured to meet specific needs. Furthermore, optimized control of individual turbines, as well as maximum safety and improved maintenance, are ensured.

[0045] In another embodiment of the invention, the central controller is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first and / or second turbines of the wind power plant and / or the functions of the first and / or second turbine controllers.

[0046] Each individual turbine controller can be actuated by the central controller. Each wind turbine module operates independently of all other wind turbine modules. This improves availability in the event of a turbine module failure and enhances the efficiency of the wind farm due to the non-stationary nature of wind in both time and space. The wind farm can be easily adapted and configured to meet demand. Furthermore, it ensures optimized control of individual turbines, as well as the best possible safety and improved maintenance.

[0047] In another embodiment of the invention, the first generator can be connected to an electrical bus via a first node, wherein additional generators and / or wind turbine modules are connected to the electrical bus. The electrical power output of all wind turbine modules arranged in the wind power plant is combined on this bus.

[0048] In another embodiment of the invention, a first voltage converter is positioned between the first generator and the first node. The conversion of electrical power output from the generator is performed individually for each wind turbine module. The wind power plant generating electrical power according to the method of the invention is therefore modularly constructed: each wind turbine module operates independently of all other wind turbine modules. This improves availability in the event of a failure in a wind turbine module and enhances the efficiency of the wind power plant because wind is non-stationary in both time and space. The wind power plant can be easily adapted and configured as needed. Furthermore, optimized control of individual turbines, as well as optimal safety and improved maintenance, are ensured.

[0049] In another embodiment of the invention, the first voltage converter can be controlled by the first turbine controller. Specifically, the voltage and current of the alternating current output by the first generator can optionally be controlled. Furthermore, the control includes boosting the voltage to the user voltage, feed-in voltage, or storage voltage, and monitoring and / or checking safety parameters (e.g., the voltage of the generator and / or the voltage and / or current of the voltage converter).

[0050] In another embodiment of the invention, the first voltage converter is part of the first turbine controller. The first voltage converter and the first turbine controller are installed as an integrated unit, thereby being arranged in a weather-independent manner.

[0051] In another embodiment of the invention, the first wind turbine module includes a first anemometer connected to the first turbine controller. The first anemometer detects the prevailing wind force and, optionally, the wind direction. During operation, the first torque of the first generator of the first turbine is regulated by the first turbine controller relative to the first wind force acting on the first turbine, so as to produce optimal electrical power output even when the first turbine is operating under partial load.

[0052] In another embodiment of the invention, the first turbine controller has an interface designed and adapted for connection to a second turbine controller of a second wind turbine module. The second turbine controller also has an interface suitable for this purpose.

[0053] In another embodiment of the invention, the wind turbine module of the wind power plant is a wind turbine module according to one or more of claims 24 to 31.

[0054] The method according to the invention and exemplary embodiments of the wind power plant according to the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings in simplified schematic form and explained in more detail in the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 A wind power plant according to the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A rectifier for a wind power plant according to the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A rectifier with DC electrical appliances for a wind power plant according to the present invention is shown; Figure 4a A wind turbine module is shown, with a separate arrangement of the turbine controller; Figure 4b A wind turbine module is shown, in which the turbine controller is integrated with a voltage converter; Figure 4c A wind turbine module is shown, in which the turbine controller is integrated with a voltage converter; Figure 5 The characteristic curves of a wind power plant with a rated power of 2MW are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a wind power plant according to the present invention is shown, the wind power plant comprising multiple wind turbine modules WMn. Each individual wind turbine module WMn includes a turbine Tn, which is mechanically connected via a shaft to a generator Gn assigned to that turbine Tn. Each generator Gn is assigned to and connected to a distributed turbine controller SDn, which in turn is connected to a central controller SC. Each distributed turbine controller SDn includes a voltage converter KVn, which is also assigned to and connected to the corresponding generator Gn. Each generator Gn is connected to an electrical bus S via a node K. The voltage converters KVn are rectifiers, i.e., they convert the AC voltage UACn generated by the corresponding generator Gn to which they are connected into a DC current IDCn under a DC voltage UDC. Each voltage converter KVn is connected between the generator Gn and the node K. A voltage converter KVn is installed as an integrated unit together with a turbine controller SDn.

[0057] The distributed turbine controller SDn also includes an anemometer An or is connected to anemometer An. Anemometer An is assigned to turbine Tn and positioned immediately adjacent (<1m) to its assigned turbine Tn to optimally detect wind conditions in the vicinity of the corresponding wind turbine Tn. Anemometer An detects the wind force WFn acting on its assigned turbine Tn and, optionally, the wind direction. During operation, the distributed turbine controller SDn adjusts the torque of the generator Gn of the wind turbine module WMn based on the wind force WFn acting on the turbine Tn, ensuring optimal power output even when the turbine Tn is operating under partial load.

[0058] For multiple electrical power outputs generated by converting wind power WFn: First wind power WF1 rotates the first turbine T1 of the first wind turbine module WM1. A first generator G1 connected to the first turbine T1 generates first electrical power with a first AC voltage UAC1. Simultaneously, second wind power WF2 rotates the second turbine T2 of the second wind turbine module WM2. A second generator G2 connected to the second turbine T2 generates second electrical power with a second AC voltage UAC2. Since the wind power WF1 and WF2 acting on the respective turbines T1 and T2 are typically different, the first AC voltage UAC1 and the second AC voltage UAC2 are different from each other. Typically, all generators Gn simultaneously driven by turbines Tn connected to generator Gn each generate electrical power, wherein all generated electrical power is different from each other. Specifically, all generators Gn simultaneously generate electrical power with corresponding AC voltages UACn, wherein all AC voltages UACn are different from each other.

[0059] The first voltage converter KV1 converts the first electrical power of the first generator G1 into a first DC current under a first conversion voltage UDC. Simultaneously, the second voltage converter KV2 converts the second electrical power of the second generator G2 into a second DC current under a second conversion voltage UDC, wherein the first conversion voltage UDC and the second conversion voltage UDC are equal. As described, the electrical power generated by the first generator G1 and the second generator G2 is different; therefore, the current levels IDC1 and IDC2 are also different. Typically, all generators Gn simultaneously generate different electrical powers, which are converted by the corresponding voltage converter KVn into DC currents with different power levels but at the same voltage UDC. Therefore, the current levels IDCn of the DC currents are different.

[0060] The regulation of the power conversion generated by each generator Gn by the corresponding voltage converter KVn is performed individually for each wind turbine Tn and each generator Gn, independent of the other generators Gn arranged in the wind farm. The DC current generated in this way, at voltage UDC, is fed into the power bus S via node K and collected therein. The fed-in inverter WR converts the DC power into AC power with appropriate voltage, current, and frequency—for example, 230V, 16A, and 50Hz in Germany—and feeds it into the public grid.

[0061] To expand an existing wind power plant that includes one or more wind turbine modules WMn and is already in operation (i.e., generating electrical power by converting wind power WFn), a first wind turbine module WM1 is provided. The first wind turbine module WM1 includes a first turbine T1, a first generator G1, and a first turbine controller SD1. The first wind turbine module WM1 is installed at its intended installation location, which is, for example, infrastructure or a structure such as a building, bridge, and / or mobile communication tower or power tower, suitable for accommodating one or more modules. The first wind turbine module WM1 is then electrically connected to a bus S via two nodes K. The first turbine controller SD1 is electrically connected to the wind turbine module WM1, the first generator G1, and the central controller SC, and is also electrically connected to a second turbine controller SD2 of a second wind turbine module WM2. Turbine controllers SD1 and SD2 have suitable interfaces for this purpose.

[0062] Figure 2 Another exemplary embodiment of a wind power plant according to the present invention is shown. This wind power plant corresponds to the power plant presented in the foregoing exemplary embodiments, but additionally includes a voltage control device DC upstream of the feed-in inverter WR. The voltage control device DC is connected to and can be controlled by the central controller SC. DC appliances ST and V (see [reference]) can be arranged between the voltage control device DC and the feed-in inverter WR. Figure 3 These DC appliances ST and V (exemplarily, the rechargeable battery storage ST and the DC charging station V for BEVs) partially consume the DC power generated by the wind turbines T1, T2, ... Tn. The voltage control device DC is designed as a DC / DC converter and regulates the DC voltage under the control of the central controller SC. Individual voltage converters KV1, KV2, KVn regulate the electrical power generated by the generators G1, G2, Gn to this DC voltage. When the voltage converters KV1, KV2, KV are configured as inverters, the voltage control device DC is alternatively designed as an AC / DC converter (rectifier). The inverter WR feeds in the DC power to convert it into AC power with appropriate voltage, current, and frequency (e.g., 230V, 16A, and 50Hz in Germany).

[0063] Figure 3 Another exemplary embodiment of a wind power plant according to the present invention is shown. This wind power plant corresponds to the power plant presented in the foregoing exemplary embodiments, but additionally includes system protection equipment SP connected to a central controller SC. The central controller SC acts as a monitoring unit for the system protection SP, for example, through overvoltage protection or emergency shutdown of all or individual turbines T1, T2, ... Tn. The central controller SC optionally monitors the load side (e.g., energy demand). Based on this information, the individual turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are controlled. For example, if the energy demand on the load side differs from the total output of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn, the power output of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn is adjusted individually or collectively to match the demand. This can be done equally for all turbines T1, T2, ... Tn, or only for individual turbines T1, T2, ... Tn.

[0064] In the feed-in area, a voltage control device DC is arranged, which is connected to a feed-in inverter WR for feeding the generated electrical power into the grid. The feed-in inverter WR is connected to all voltage converters KV1, KV2, KVn arranged in the wind farm. Between the voltage control device DC and the feed-in inverter WR, DC appliances ST, V can be arranged, which (exemplarily, a rechargeable battery storage ST and a DC charging station V for BEVs) partially consume the DC power generated by the turbines T1, T2, ... Tn. The feed-in inverter WR converts the DC power into AC power with appropriate voltage, current, and frequency (e.g., 230V, 16A, and 50Hz in Germany).

[0065] The feed voltage of the inverter WR can be adjusted by the central controller SC according to national requirements and can be single-phase or three-phase. The wind farm can operate at wind speeds from 3 m / s to 20 m / s; the AC voltage UACn generated by the generator Gn ranges from 15V to 300V. One generator Gn and thus one wind turbine module WMn generate a maximum power of 2kW based on wind force WFn. The wind farm is designed to operate up to 64 wind turbine modules WMn; therefore, the maximum achievable power of the wind farm is 128kW. The DC voltage UDC in the bus S can be adjusted by the central controller SC and ranges from 100V to 450V. Furthermore, the central controller SC can flexibly adjust the power output and feed voltage of the voltage control equipment DC according to customer needs (e.g., 48V DC for telecommunications).

[0066] Figure 4 illustrates exemplary embodiments of different arrangements of the first turbine controller SD1 and the first voltage converter KV1 in the first wind turbine module WM1. The first turbine controller SD1 is connected to the first voltage converter KV1 for converting the first electrical power generated by the first generator G1 into DC current under electrical voltage UDC, and is also connected to the anemometer A1. The turbine controller SD1 can be arranged independently ( Figure 4a Alternatively, the turbine controller can be installed as an integrated unit together with the voltage converter KV1. Figure 4b , Figure 4c In all three cases, the turbine controller SD1 is connected to and controls the voltage converter KV1. Similarly, the turbine controller SD1 is connected to the anemometer A, generator G1, and central controller SC.

[0067] The distributed controller SD1 adjusts the settings of the speed controller accordingly for power variations in turbine T1. Power variations can be either a decrease or an increase in power. The speed controller is adjusted until the system power equals the demand power on the load side, or—if the system power is insufficient to meet the demand power—the system power is less than the demand power.

[0068] In storm conditions, as indicated by measurements from anemometer A1, the distributed controller SD1 initiates a braking process, subsequently activating the fail-safe parking brake of turbine T1. Turbine controller SD1 simultaneously controls the (internal) load resistor to compensate for voltage and current spikes when one or more safety parameters (current and / or voltage) exceed thresholds. The load resistor is preferably designed as a braking chopper. Optionally, the fail-safe brake can also be activated when no (electrical) energy is available from the wind farm. In this case, the brake closes, stopping turbine T1. Once electrical energy is available again from the wind farm, the brake opens.

[0069] Figure 5 Characteristic curves for a wind power plant with a rated power (NP) of 2 MW are illustrated to demonstrate the necessity of speed control over the turbine Tn from partial load to full load. The x-axis represents the turbine Tn speed in rpm; the y-axis represents the generated electrical power in MW. Power curves for different wind speeds from 6 m / s to 11.8 m / s are also plotted.

[0070] A wind power plant operates optimally when the rotational speeds (VR) of the corresponding turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are matched with the wind speed. In this process, the combination of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn with generators G1, G2, ... Gn must be considered. The wind power plant shown here generates its rated power NP of 2 MW at a wind speed of 11.8 m / s; the nominal rotational speeds (NS) of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are approximately 22 rpm. At lower wind speeds, the optimal rotational speeds (OS) of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are lower, as shown in the optimal rotational speed (OS) curve.

[0071] Currently, active pitch control is used in wind power plants. This means that the rotor blades of turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are controlled within an angle of attack range from zero lift to maximum lift. Active actuators change the angle of attack of the rotor blades based on wind speed and generator load. In all the exemplary embodiments shown, the turbines T1, T2, ... Tn of the wind power plant according to the invention do not have active pitch control because this would be too complex, heavy, and costly, thus contradicting the invention's objective of providing a cost-effective wind power plant. Instead, the rotational speeds of the respective turbines T1, T2, ... Tn are regulated by the counter-torque of the respective generators G1, G2, ... Gn connected to the turbines T1, T2, ... Tn: under lower loads, the generators G1, G2, ... Gn apply stronger braking.

[0072] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: Anemometers A1, A2, and An; T1, T2, Tn turbines; Generators G1, G2, and Gn; KV1, KV2, KVn voltage converters; WR feeds into the inverter; SD1, SD2, SDn Distributed Controllers / Turbine Controllers; SC Central Controller; K node; BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle); DC circuitry for IDC wind turbine modules; S-busbar; SP system protection; ST Rechargeable Energy Storage (Battery); V is a DC charging station for BEVs; D. Rotational speed of the wind turbine; EL refers to the electrical power generated by a wind turbine. NP Rated Power; NS Nominal Speed; OS optimal rotation speed; UACn is the AC voltage of the generator; WF1, WF2, WFn Wind force; EK feed-in node; UDC bus DC voltage.

Claims

1. A method for expanding an existing wind power plant, comprising the following method steps: Provides the first wind turbine module (WM). in, The first wind turbine module (WM) includes a first turbine (T1), which is designed and adapted to convert first wind force (WF1) into kinetic energy. The first wind turbine module (WM1) includes a first generator (G1), which is designed and adapted to convert the kinetic energy of the first turbine (T1) into electrical power. The first wind turbine module (WM1) includes a first turbine controller (SD1). The first turbine controller (SD1) is designed and adapted to control the first turbine (T1) and / or the first generator (G1). The wind turbine module (WM1) is installed at the intended installation location of the first wind turbine module. Establish an electrical connection between the first wind turbine module (WM1) and / or the first generator (G1) and the existing wind power plant. Connect the first turbine controller (SD1) to the first wind turbine module (WM1) and / or the first generator (G1). Connect the first turbine controller (SD1) to the central controller (SC). The central controller (SC) is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first WM1 and / or the second wind turbine module (WM2) of the wind power plant, and / or is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first SD1 and / or the second turbine controller (SD2).

2. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first generator (G1) is connected to the power bus (S) via the first node (K). In this configuration, additional generators (Gn) and / or wind turbine modules (WMn) are connected to the electrical bus (S).

3. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is located between the first generator (G1) and the first node (K).

4. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is controlled by the first turbine controller (SD1).

5. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is part of the first turbine controller (SD1).

6. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first anemometer (A1) is installed near the first turbine (T1).

7. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first anemometer (A1) is connected to the first turbine controller (SD1).

8. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) is connected to the second turbine controller (SD2) of the second wind turbine module (WM2).

9. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second turbine controller (SD2) has the same or similar functional range for the second wind turbine module (WM2) as the first turbine controller (SD1) for the first wind turbine module (WM).

10. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The second turbine controller (SD2) is connected to another turbine controller (SDn) and / or the central controller (SC).

11. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) is initialized.

12. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to claim 11, characterized in that, During initialization, the voltage for output electrical power is defined.

13. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The wind power plant includes multiple wind turbine modules (WMn). Each wind turbine module (WMn) has a separate dedicated turbine controller (SDn). Each individual turbine controller (SDn) can be actuated by the central controller (SC).

14. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) controls the first generator (G1). The control is performed using the speed-torque characteristic curve.

15. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) detects, checks, and / or monitors one or more safety parameters of the first wind turbine module (WM). Wherein, the one or more safety parameters are one or more parameters from the following group: rotational speed, temperature of the first generator (G1), voltage of the first generator (G1) and / or voltage and / or current of the first converter (KV1), Thresholds (e.g., overspeed, overheat, overvoltage, overcurrent) are assigned to the safety parameters, and when these thresholds are exceeded, the first turbine controller (SD1) intervenes in the operation of the turbine and / or generator and / or triggers data and / or messages to the central controller (SC) and / or other system components.

16. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) controls the start-up of the first turbine (T1) from a standstill. The first generator (G1) is used as an electric motor. The electrical energy used to operate the first generator (G1) as a motor is taken from the grid connection and / or from the connected energy storage device (ST).

17. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) acts as a data logger for safety and operating parameters of each wind turbine module (WMn) and the entire wind power plant.

18. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) controls the software updates of the wind power plant and / or each wind turbine module (WMn), monitors weather and environmental parameters (such as wind speed and direction), system protection (SP) and / or safety components, and communicates with the wind turbine modules (WMn).

19. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) monitors the load side and the communication with the load side. Each turbine (Tn) is controlled based on information from the load side.

20. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) controls and switches each turbine (Tn) based on operating parameters, safety parameters, and environmental parameters. The central controller (SC) switches the wind turbine module (WMn) between standby and normal operation.

21. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) provides remote access to the distributed controllers (SD1, SD2, SDn) and the wind turbine modules (WMn), and the remote access provides options to intervene in the operation of the system or individual turbines (Tn) and / or access to data loggers.

22. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) controls the start-up of the first turbine (T1). Specifically, a signal is sent from the central controller (SC) to the first turbine controller (SD1). The first generator (G1) is controlled by the signal to function as a motor.

23. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The user voltage is predefined by the central controller (SC).

24. A wind turbine module (WM1) for a wind power plant, comprising: First turbine (T1) The first generator (G1) is designed and adapted to convert the kinetic energy of the first turbine (T1) into electrical power. A first turbine controller (SD1) is provided, wherein the first turbine (T1) and the first generator (G1) are controllable by the first turbine controller (SD1). Its features are, The wind turbine module (WM1) can be connected to the power bus (S). The first turbine controller (SD1) can be connected to the central controller (SC) of the wind power plant.

25. The wind turbine module (WM1) of the wind power plant according to claim 24, characterized in that, The central controller (SC) is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first T1 and / or the second turbine (T2) of the wind power plant, and / or is designed and adapted to control the functions of the first SD1 and / or the second turbine controller (SD2).

26. The wind turbine module (WM1) of the wind power plant according to claim 24 or 25, characterized in that, The first generator (G1) can be connected to the power bus (S) through the first node (K). In this configuration, additional generators (Gn) and / or wind turbine modules (WMn) are connected to the electrical bus (S).

27. The wind turbine module (WM1) of a wind power plant according to one or more of claims 24 to 26, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is located between the first generator (G1) and the first node (K).

28. The wind turbine module (WM1) of the wind power plant according to claim 27, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is controlled by the first turbine controller (SD1).

29. The wind turbine module (WM1) of the wind power plant according to claim 28, characterized in that, The first voltage converter (KV1) is part of the first turbine controller (SD1).

30. The wind turbine module (WM1) of a wind power plant according to one or more of claims 24 to 29, characterized in that, The first wind turbine module (WM1) includes a first anemometer (A1). The first anemometer (A1) is connected to the first turbine controller (SD1).

31. The method for expanding an existing wind power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first turbine controller (SD1) has an interface designed and adapted to connect to the second turbine controller (SD2) of the second wind turbine module (WM2).

32. A wind power plant comprising multiple wind turbine modules, characterized in that, The wind turbine module (WMn) of the wind power plant is the wind turbine module (WMn) according to one or more of claims 24 to 31.

Images