Wind turbine generator and method for controlling wind turbine generator

Abstract

To provide a wind power generation device and a control method of the wind power generation device capable of preventing damage of the device by properly changing a mode.SOLUTION: A braking unit configured to brake rotation, and a control unit configured to switch between a plurality of preset control modes based on a state value, switching between a first control mode in which a first load based on the state value is applied when the state value is less than a preset first threshold value, a second control mode in which a second load larger than the first load is applied when the state value becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first control mode, and a strong wind braking mode in which the braking unit operates for a preset strong wind braking time when the state value becomes equal to or greater than a preset second threshold value in the second control mode; After the strong wind braking time elapses and the brake unit is released in the strong wind braking mode, the control is performed in the second control mode, and when the rotation state acquisition unit is less than the preset return threshold value in the second control mode, the control mode returns to the first control mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a wind turbine generator and a method for controlling the wind turbine generator. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a wind turbine generator has been disclosed that switches between a normal operation mode and a strong wind mode in which the rotation speed is reduced in a strong wind compared to the normal operation mode. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2024-34567 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-42342 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The wind power generation devices disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are wind power generation devices that switch between a normal operation mode, a strong wind mode in which the rotation speed is reduced below that of the normal operation mode when the set value of the normal operation mode is exceeded, and a braking mode in which a brake is activated to further slow down the wind turbine when the set value of the strong wind mode is further exceeded.

[0005] However, the wind turbine generators described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 change modes while the wind turbine is operating, which can result in damage to the device due to repeated sudden changes in load during rotation caused by sudden changes in wind speed. Furthermore, the wind turbine generator described in Patent Document 1 requires an anemometer when returning to normal mode from braking mode with the brake activated. If the anemometer is damaged and a wind speed is recognized as lower than the actual speed, the rotation speed may increase too much, potentially damaging the wind turbine. Furthermore, the wind turbine generator described in Patent Document 2 can increase the rotation speed too much if strong winds continue when returning to normal mode from braking mode with the brake activated, potentially damaging the wind turbine.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a wind turbine generator and a control method for a wind turbine generator that can appropriately change modes and prevent damage to the wind turbine section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention aims to solve the above problems, and provides a wind turbine generator according to one embodiment of the present invention, In a wind power generation device, a wind turbine unit rotates due to wind force relative to a support housing installed at a predetermined installation location, thereby generating electricity using a power generation unit, a rotation state acquisition unit that acquires a state value indicating a rotation state of the wind turbine unit; a braking unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit; a control unit that switches between a plurality of preset control modes based on the state value; Equipped with The control unit a first control mode in which, when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold, a first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; a second control mode in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first control mode, a second load greater than the first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; a strong wind braking mode in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value in the second control mode, the braking unit operates for a predetermined strong wind braking time; Switch between In the strong wind braking mode, after the strong wind braking time has elapsed and the braking unit is released, control is performed in the second control mode, When the rotation state acquisition unit is in the second control mode and the value is less than a preset return threshold value, the control mode returns to the first control mode.

[0008] The present invention solves the above-mentioned problems, and a control method for a wind turbine generator according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: A control method for a wind turbine generator in which a wind turbine unit rotates relative to a support housing installed at a predetermined installation location to generate electricity using a power generation unit, comprising: a rotation state acquisition unit that acquires a state value indicating a rotation state of the wind turbine unit; a braking unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit; Equipped with switching between a plurality of preset control modes based on the state value; A method for controlling a wind turbine generator, comprising: a first control step of applying a first load to the wind turbine unit based on the state value when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold value; a second control step of applying a second load greater than the first load to the wind turbine unit based on the state value when the state value becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first control step; a strong wind braking step in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value in the second control step, the braking unit operates for a predetermined strong wind braking time; and In the strong wind braking step, after the strong wind braking time has elapsed and the braking unit has been released, the process returns to the second control step, In the second control step, if the rotation state acquisition unit detects a value less than a preset return threshold value, the control returns to the first control step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the wind turbine generator and the control method for the wind turbine generator according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to appropriately change modes and prevent damage to the wind turbine section. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is an overall perspective view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is an example of a system configuration diagram of a wind turbine generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 shows an example of a control table of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of a first embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of a first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a second example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fifth example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the sixth example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is an example of a control table of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a second example of the second embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a second example of the second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the third embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of the third embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 21] 13 is an example of a control table of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a second example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] 13 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a second example of the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. The embodiments are merely examples and are not limited to these examples. In the following embodiments, a wind turbine generator 1 using a wind turbine generator will be described as one application example of a wind turbine generator. In the description of the embodiments, "parallel" does not only mean perfectly parallel, but also means approximately parallel, allowing for a degree of deviation that does not impair the function of the wind turbine generator 1. Similarly, "vertical" does not only mean perfectly vertical, but also means approximately vertical, allowing for a degree of deviation that does not impair the function of the wind turbine generator 1. In the description of the embodiments, "arc" does not only mean a perfectly circular arc, but also means an approximately arc, allowing for a degree of deviation that does not impair the function of the wind turbine generator 1.

[0012] (Wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment) Fig. 1 is an overall perspective view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a partially exploded perspective view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment.

[0013] The wind power generator 1 includes a support housing 2 installed at a predetermined installation location, a support shaft 3 rotatably supported by the support housing 2, multiple support members 4 arranged at predetermined intervals L1 in the axial direction Da of the support shaft 3, at least one of which is fixed to the support shaft 3, and multiple pressure-receiving members 5 arranged between the multiple support members 4 and supported by the multiple support members 4. The wind power generator 1 functions as a drag-type wind turbine, with the support shaft 3 rotating in a traveling direction Dt (clockwise in this embodiment (see FIG. 3)) when the pressure-receiving members 5 receive wind pressure (fluid pressure) due to wind (airflow) flowing from a predetermined direction. The support shaft 3, support members 4, and pressure-receiving members 5 constitute a wind turbine unit 30. The wind turbine unit 30 is supported by the support housing 2 via bearings and the like. Bearings (not shown) are included in the wind turbine unit 30.

[0014] Each component of the wind turbine generator 1 (support housing 2, support shaft 3, support member 4, pressure-receiving member 5) is made of, for example, a metal material (including alloys) such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, or steel, a fiber-reinforced resin material such as carbon fiber-reinforced resin or glass fiber-reinforced resin, a resin material such as polycarbonate or vinyl chloride, or a composite material of these. Note that each component may be made by appropriately combining the various materials described above, and for example, each component may be made of a different material, or some or all of the component members may be made of a common material.

[0015] 1, the wind turbine generator 1 includes three support members 4 as the multiple support members 4. The wind turbine generator 1 also includes a plurality of pressure-receiving members 5, which are arranged in pairs symmetrically with respect to the rotation center axis O1 of the support shaft 3, between the three support members 4, i.e., between adjacent support members 4. That is, the wind turbine generator 1 includes four pressure-receiving members 5 in total.

[0016] The support housing 2 is a cylindrical housing arranged coaxially with the support shaft 3. The support housing 2 has a power generation unit 20 at its upper part that supports the support shaft 3 and converts the rotational energy generated when the support shaft 3 rotates into electrical energy. The support housing 2 may support only the lower end side of the support shaft 3, or may support the upper end side of the support shaft 3 in addition to the lower end side (which may be the upper end of the support shaft 3 or a shaft member connected to the upper end of the support shaft 3). The support housing 2 may also be a truss-shaped housing.

[0017] The power generating unit 20 is configured as, for example, an outer rotor type generator. However, the power generating unit 20 may also be configured as an inner rotor type generator. Furthermore, the support shaft 3 and the power generating unit 20 may be connected directly or via a gearbox.

[0018] The support shaft 3 is made up of a cylindrical or columnar shaft member, and is supported by the power generation unit 20 around the central rotation axis O1. The support shaft 3 may be made up of a single shaft member, or may be made up of multiple (two in this embodiment) connected shaft members having a length approximately equal to the interval L1.

[0019] Each of the plurality of support members 4 is plate-shaped and is made of, for example, a flat plate material. In this embodiment, the support members 4 are fixed to the support shaft 3 by any fixing method (welding, adhesive bonding, screw fixing, press fitting, rivet, pin connection, joint, etc.) so that the support shaft 3 passes through the vicinity of the center of the support member 4. In this case, the support members 4 are fixed to the support shaft 3 via a connecting fixing member (not shown) formed in, for example, a ring shape or a flange shape. Furthermore, the support members 4 are fixed to the pressure-receiving member 5 by any fixing method as described above, and support the pressure-receiving member 5.

[0020] It is sufficient that at least one of the multiple support members 4 is fixed to the support shaft 3. For example, the support members 4 arranged at both ends of the support shaft 3 (in the example of FIG. 1, the first and third support members 4 from the bottom) may be fixed to the support shaft 3 via a connecting and fixing member. In this case, some or all of the intermediate support members 4 arranged between the ends (in the example of FIG. 1, the second support member 4 from the bottom) may or may not be fixed to the support shaft 3 via a connecting and fixing member. The intermediate support members 4 that are not fixed to the support shaft 3 connect the pressure-receiving members 5 to each other in the axial direction Da and function as connecting and reinforcing members that reinforce the pressure-receiving members 5. For example, the support shaft 3 may pass through a through-hole formed in the support member 4, or a connecting elastic member formed in a ring shape from an elastic material such as rubber may be arranged to fill the gap between the support shaft 3 and the through-hole of the support member 4.

[0021] The support member 4 has a shape (plan view shape) in a plan view (see FIG. 3) perpendicular to the axial direction Da, which includes a pair of curved outer contour portions 40 curved along outer wall surface portions 50 (details will be described later) of each of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5, and a pair of linear outer contour portions 41 linearly formed so as to connect the pair of curved outer contour portions 40 along inner wall surface portions 51, 52 (details will be described later) of each of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5. Therefore, the support member 4 is formed in a plan view by two linear portions arranged in parallel and two curved portions that curvely connect both ends of the two linear portions.

[0022] The longitudinal direction of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5 is defined as a direction parallel to the straight line formed by the linear outer portion 41 in a plan view. The lateral direction of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5 is defined as a direction perpendicular to the straight line formed by the linear outer portion 41 in a plan view.

[0023] In plan view, the curved outer portions 40 are disposed on the longitudinal outer sides Dl of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5. In plan view, the curved outer portions 40 protrude from the outer wall surface portions 50 to the radial outer sides Dr1 of the support shaft 3.

[0024] In plan view, the linear contour portions 41 are disposed on the outer lateral sides Ds of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5. In plan view, the linear contour portions 41 protrude from the inner wall surface portions 51, 52 to the outer lateral sides Ds.

[0025] Each of the pair of pressure-receiving members 5 is arranged around the support shaft 3 between adjacent support members 4 along the axial direction Da and spaced apart in radial directions Dr1, Dr2 of the support shaft 3. In a plan view perpendicular to the axial direction Da (see FIG. 3), the pressure-receiving member 5 has wall surface portions 50-52 extending between an outer end 53 and an inner end 54 that is located on the opposite side of the outer end 53 with respect to the central rotation axis O1 and radially inward Dr2 of the outer end 53.

[0026] The pressure-receiving member 5 has wall surface portions 50-52, namely, an outer wall surface portion 50 extending between an outer end 53 and an outer boundary portion 55 and formed in a curved shape bulging outward in the radial direction Dr1, and one or more inner wall surface portions 51, 52 extending between the outer boundary portion 55 and an inner end 54 and formed in a curved or flat shape bulging outward in the radial direction Dr1. In this case, the outer boundary portion 55 is positioned on the traveling direction side Dt of the pressure-receiving member 5 and closer to the rotation central axis O1 than the outer end 53. Furthermore, the inner end 54 is positioned on the traveling direction side Dt of the pressure-receiving member 5 with respect to the outer boundary portion 55.

[0027] In this embodiment, the pressure-receiving member 5 has, as wall surface portions 50-52, an outer wall surface portion 50 arranged closer to the outer end 53, a second inner wall surface portion 52 arranged closer to the inner end 54, and a first inner wall surface portion 51 arranged between the outer wall surface portion 50 and the second inner wall surface portion 52. The pressure-receiving member 5 also has an outer boundary portion 55 arranged at the boundary portion between the outer wall surface portion 50 and the first inner wall surface portion 51, and an inner boundary portion 56 arranged at the boundary portion between the first inner wall surface portion 51 and the second inner wall surface portion 52. In this case, the inner boundary portion 56 is arranged on the traveling direction side Dt of the pressure-receiving member 5 and closer to the rotation central axis O1 with respect to the outer boundary portion 55.

[0028] The outer wall surface portion 50 extends between the outer end 53 and the outer boundary portion 55 and is formed into a curved surface that bulges outward in the radial direction Dr1. The outer wall surface portion 50 has a curved surface that does not obstruct the flow of air, for example, a curved surface that has a circular arc, an elliptical arc, or another curved shape in a plan view. In this embodiment, the outer wall surface portion 50 is formed into a curved arc shape having a single curvature. Note that when the outer wall surface portion 50 has a curved arc shape, the central angle of the arc is preferably, for example, in the range of 75 degrees to 135 degrees, and more preferably in the range of 90 degrees to 120 degrees.

[0029] The first inner wall surface portion 51 is an inner wall surface portion that extends between the outer boundary portion 55 and the inner boundary portion 56 and is formed in a curved or flat shape that bulges outward in the radial direction Dr1. The first inner wall surface portion 51 is formed, for example, in a curved shape, such as an arbitrary curved shape in a planar view, such as a circular arc, an elliptical arc, or another curve. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the first inner wall surface portion 51 is formed in a flat shape that is a straight line in a planar view. Note that when the planar view shape of the outer wall surface portion 50 is a curved circular arc, the first inner wall surface portion 51 may be formed in a flat shape that is located on a tangent extended from the end of the outer wall surface portion 50 on the outer boundary portion 55 side, and the outer boundary portion 55 may be located at the boundary between the outer wall surface portion 50 (circular arc or elliptical arc) and the first inner wall surface portion 51 (tangent to the circular arc or elliptical arc). This allows the flow of air from the outer wall surface portion 50 toward the first inner wall surface portion 51 to be smooth.

[0030] The second inner wall surface portion 52 is an inner wall surface portion that extends between the inner boundary portion 56 and the inner end 54 and is formed in a curved or flat shape that bulges outward in the radial direction Dr1. The second inner wall surface portion 52 is formed, for example, in a curved shape, such as a circular arc, an elliptical arc, or other curved shape in a planar view. Alternatively, the second inner wall surface portion 52 is formed in a flat shape that is a straight line in a planar view, as shown in FIG.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first inner wall surface portion 51 and the second inner wall surface portion 52 are formed on a linear plane in plan view, and the inner end 54 is disposed on the traveling direction side Dt with respect to an extension line of the first inner wall surface portion 51 in plan view. As a result, the first inner wall surface portion 51 and the second inner wall surface portion 52 form an obtuse angle toward the support shaft 3. Note that the outer wall surface portion 50 and the first inner wall surface portion 51 may also be disposed so as to be convex toward the radially outer side Dr1 via the outer boundary portion 55 in plan view, so that the outer wall surface portion 50 and the first inner wall surface portion 51 form an obtuse angle toward the support shaft 3 side.

[0032] The outer boundary 55 and the inner boundary 56 are formed in a curved or bent shape. The shapes of the outer boundary 55 and the inner boundary 56 may be the same or different. If the outer boundary 55 is curved, it may be formed in the same curved surface shape as the outer wall surface 50 or the first inner wall surface 51, and if the inner boundary 56 is curved, it may be formed in the same curved surface shape as the first inner wall surface 51.

[0033] The wall surface portions 50-52 may be formed integrally with adjacent portions (the outer wall surface portion 50, the outer boundary portion 55, the first inner wall surface portion 51, the inner boundary portion 56, and the second inner wall surface portion 52) in part or in whole, or may be formed by joining multiple parts. For example, when the entire wall surface portions 50-52 (the outer wall surface portion 50, the outer boundary portion 55, the first inner wall surface portion 51, the inner boundary portion 56, and the second inner wall surface portion 52) are formed integrally, the pressure-receiving member 5 may be manufactured by bending a flat metal plate, a resin plate, or the like in an area corresponding to each portion. This eliminates seams and fasteners in the wall surface portions 50-52, thereby reducing the fluid resistance of the pressure-receiving member 5. In this embodiment, the pressure-receiving member 5 is formed integrally with the entire wall surface portions 50-52, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0034] Furthermore, when the wall surface portions 50 to 52 are formed as separate parts, they may be configured as three parts divided at the outer boundary portion 55 and the inner boundary portion 56, or may be configured as two parts divided near the middle of the first inner wall surface portion 51. The pressure-receiving member 5 may be manufactured by fixing each part via a fixing portion using any of the above-mentioned fixing methods.

[0035] The pair of pressure-receiving members 5 are symmetrically arranged around the support shaft 3, spaced apart in the radial directions Dr1 and Dr2 of the support shaft 3 and offset by 180 degrees. Therefore, the first inner wall surface portion 51 of one pressure-receiving member 5 and the second inner wall surface portion 52 of the other pressure-receiving member 5 are arranged in opposing positions, and a gap is formed between each inner boundary portion 56 of the pressure-receiving member 5 and the outer circumferential surface of the support shaft 3. In this case, the first inner wall surface portion 51 and the second inner wall surface portion 52 of the pressure-receiving member 5 are arranged so that they are convex toward the radially outward side Dr1 via the inner boundary portion 56, so that the spacing between the pair of pressure-receiving members 5 in a plan view is relatively narrow on the inner end 54 side and relatively wide on the inner boundary portion 56 side. Therefore, the spacing between the pair of pressure-receiving members 5 becomes wider as they approach the support shaft 3.

[0036] Furthermore, when a pair of pressure-receiving members 5 are arranged symmetrically, the inner end 54 of one pressure-receiving member 5 is preferably arranged on the traveling direction side Dt of a line connecting the outer end 53 of the other pressure-receiving member 5 and the rotation center axis O1 of the support shaft 3 in a plan view, and more preferably on the traveling direction side Dt of a line connecting the outer end 53 of the other pressure-receiving member 5 and the inner boundary portion 56. This makes it possible to appropriately set the width of the passage formed between the pair of pressure-receiving members 5.

[0037] (System Configuration) FIG. 4 is an example of a system configuration diagram of the wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment.

[0038] Generally, wind turbines have a rotation speed that provides the highest energy conversion efficiency for a given wind speed. Conventional wind turbines maintain this rotation speed and perform load control to maximize power generation. The rotating parts of a wind turbine rotate faster when the load is light and slower when the load is heavy. Many conventional wind turbines adjust the load using a single load table set to maximize power generation.

[0039] However, conventional wind turbines use a single load table set to maximize power generation under normal conditions, which can lead to increased rotation speeds and damage to the equipment when strong or gusty winds occur. Furthermore, conventional wind turbines brake and stop rotation for a certain period of time when the output voltage exceeds a predetermined voltage value, which can lead to frequent shutdowns during strong winds and reduced utilization rates.

[0040] To solve these problems, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment switches between multiple load control tables depending on the state, thereby maximizing power generation during normal times, ensuring safety during strong winds, and improving equipment utilization rate.

[0041] The wind turbine generator 1 generates power using the power generation unit 20 as the wind turbine unit 30 rotates due to wind force relative to a support housing 2 installed at a predetermined installation location. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment includes an input unit 6 having a time acquisition unit 61 that acquires time, a rotation state acquisition unit 62 that acquires a state value indicating the rotation state of the wind turbine unit 30, a day / night acquisition unit 63 that acquires whether it is day or night, an operation unit state acquisition unit 64 that acquires the state of the operation unit, and a battery state acquisition unit 65 that acquires the state of the battery that charges the power generated by the power generation unit 20; an output unit 7 that has a brake unit 71 that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30; and a control unit 8 that operates the brake unit 71 based on the results acquired by the time acquisition unit 61, the rotation state acquisition unit 62, the day / night acquisition unit 63, the operation unit state acquisition unit 64, and the battery state acquisition unit 65.

[0042] The time acquisition unit 61 may acquire a time from a clock, timer, or the like to be compared with various preset times. The time acquisition unit 61 starts acquisition when the control unit 8 starts control and is reset when the control unit 8 ends control. For example, the measurement of the time of each process may be calculated from the time acquired by the time acquisition unit 61 at the start of the process and the time acquired by the time acquisition unit 61 at the end of the process. Furthermore, multiple time acquisition units 61 may be used, with a different time acquisition unit 61 being used for each process. The time acquisition unit 61 may be a standalone unit, may be built into the control unit 8 such as a computer, or may be built into another device. Furthermore, the time acquisition unit 61 may acquire information related to time and convert the acquired information into time in the control unit 8.

[0043] The rotational state acquisition unit 62 acquires a state value of the rotational state of the wind turbine unit 30 and inputs it to the control unit 8. The rotational state acquisition unit 62 measures a state value corresponding to the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30. The rotational state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment uses an output voltage meter that measures, as a state value, the output voltage (rectified voltage) of the power generation unit 20, which is proportional to the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 based on the wind speed. Note that the rotational state acquisition unit 62 may be any device that measures the state value corresponding to the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30, and may be, for example, an ammeter that measures the load current (rectified current) of the power generation unit 20, an encoder that measures the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30, an anemometer installed around the wind turbine unit 30, or a device that calculates the rate of change of the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0044] The day / night acquisition unit 63 may be an illuminance sensor that acquires day / night based on brightness, or a sensor that acquires day / night based on the time of day. The operation unit status acquisition unit 64 acquires the status of the operation unit operated by the user. The operation unit may be a switch such as an ON / OFF button. The status of the operation unit is acquired. The battery status acquisition unit 65 may measure the charge state of the battery.

[0045] The output unit 7 has a braking unit 71 that mechanically brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. The braking unit 71 brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. In this embodiment, the braking unit 71 has a short-circuit brake 711 as a first braking unit and an electromagnetic brake 712 as a second braking unit. The short-circuit brake 711 forcibly shorts the terminals of the generator to stop it. The electromagnetic brake 712 controls power and rotational motion by utilizing an electromagnetic force generated by passing electricity through a coil. Note that the braking unit 71 may be at least one of the first braking unit or the second braking unit. The braking unit 71 is not limited to the short-circuit brake 711 and the electromagnetic brake 712, and may be any unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0046] The control unit 8 includes a determination unit 81 that determines whether the time acquired by the time acquisition unit 61 has reached a predetermined time, whether the rotation speed based on the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 is within a predetermined rotation speed range, whether the result acquired by the day / night acquisition unit 63 is day or night, whether the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is ON or OFF, and whether the battery charge state acquired by the battery state acquisition unit 65 is fully charged; a memory unit 82 that stores a predetermined time, a predetermined rotation speed range, a predetermined voltage range, etc.; and a processing unit 83 that controls the braking unit 71 when the determination unit 81 determines whether the time acquired by the time acquisition unit 61 is compared with a predetermined time, whether the rotation speed based on the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 is compared with the predetermined rotation speed range, whether the day / night state acquired by the day / night acquisition unit 63, the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64, or whether the battery charge state acquired by the battery state acquisition unit 65 is fully charged.

[0047] The control unit 8 controls the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 in accordance with the state value acquired by the input unit 6. The control unit 8 of this embodiment compares the state value acquired by the input unit 6 with various preset threshold values, switches between multiple control tables, and activates the braking unit 71.

[0048] (First Example of First Embodiment) Fig. 5 is an example of a control table for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0049] The control unit 8 of this embodiment has at least two control tables: a first control table T1 and a second control table T2. Both control tables show the relationship between output voltage and load current. The control unit 8 determines the load current by referencing the first control table T1 or the second control table T2 according to the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1. The first control table T1, for example, prioritizes the amount of power generation and applies a first load that operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a tip speed ratio that maximizes efficiency. The second control table T2, for example, applies a second load that is larger than the first load of the first control table T1 and operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a low tip speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a large second load, it is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0050] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment can switch between a first control table T1 that prioritizes power generation and operates the wind turbine section 30 at a circumferential speed ratio that provides maximum efficiency, and a second control table T2 that applies a second load that is greater than the first load of the first control table T1, operates the wind turbine section 30 at a low circumferential speed ratio, is less likely to rotate at high speed even in strong winds, and prioritizes safety, thereby improving the usability of the equipment.

[0051] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment will be described. First, in S111, the control unit 8 executes a first control step (A1) of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on a first control table T1 for a preset time.

[0052] Next, in S112, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S112. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S113 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0053] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 of this embodiment is set to about 1 minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0054] After the short-circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S114 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short-circuit brake 711. Subsequently, in S115 the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 (AB), and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the release of the short-circuit brake 711.

[0055] The set time for the second control step may be determined depending on the situation. For example, it may be determined based on the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time in the past when the output voltage became equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 in S112. If the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time in the past when the output voltage became equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 is smaller than the predetermined threshold (if it is estimated that this is not a strong wind but a temporary gust of wind), it is preferable to set the set time short, for example, to about 3 minutes. However, the set time must be longer than the predetermined time required to calculate the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time in the past. This is because the output voltage becomes zero during the time when the braking unit 71 is stopped, resulting in a small moving average value.

[0056] Furthermore, if the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time in the past when the output voltage becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S112 is greater than the predetermined threshold (if it is estimated to be a strong wind), it is preferable to set the set time long, for example, to about one hour.

[0057] Furthermore, if the braking unit 71 is released in S119 described below and then the process returns to S115, it is determined in S117 that the second threshold value P2 is exceeded, and a strong wind state is assumed, so it is preferable to set the time long, for example, to about one hour.

[0058] Next, in S116, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. While the instantaneous value of the output voltage is used in S112, a moving average value of the output voltage may also be used in S116. For example, the determination is made based on whether the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time period in the past is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. The predetermined time period may be one to ten minutes. During strong winds such as typhoons, wind speed fluctuates greatly, and a momentary low wind speed may cause the system to return to the first control mode. Therefore, it is safer to make the determination based on the moving average value rather than the instantaneous value. Note that the first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same value as or different from the first threshold P1. In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first control return threshold Pr1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s.

[0059] If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S116, the process returns to S111. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S116, the control unit 8 determines in S117 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0060] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S117, the process returns to S116. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S117, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S118 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0061] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0062] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S119.

[0063] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S115 after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released. Then, in S115, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S116, if the output voltage becomes smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S111. Note that if operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after the short-circuit brake 711 is released (from S114 to S115) or after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released (from S119 to S115), the determination in S116 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0064] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 71 when switching between modes, stopping the rotation once, and then can rotate from the stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby eliminating sudden changes in load during rotation and reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30.

[0065] Furthermore, after the electromagnetic brake 712 is deactivated, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates once with the second control table T2, and then returns to the first control table T1 after confirming that the output voltage has become smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the rotation speed of the wind turbine section 30 has decreased.

[0066] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restarting if a strong wind continues, causing the wind turbine unit 30 to over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0067] (Second example of the first embodiment) Fig. 7 is an example of a control table for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment. Fig. 8 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment.

[0068] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the first embodiment will be described. First, in S121, the control unit 8 executes a first control step (A1) of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on a first control table T1 for a preset time.

[0069] Next, in S122, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage, as a state value of the wind turbine generator 1, is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S122. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, in S123, the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 (AB), and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). In other words, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 using the first threshold value P1 as a trigger. The set time may be determined in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0070] Next, in S124, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a first control return threshold Pr1. The first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s. As in the first embodiment, a moving average value or the like may be used for the output voltage.

[0071] If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S124, the process returns to S121. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S124, the control unit 8 determines in S125 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0072] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold P2 in S125, the process returns to S124. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold P2 in S125, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S126 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0073] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0074] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S127.

[0075] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S123 after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released. Then, in S123, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S124, if the output voltage becomes smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S121. Note that if operation is performed based on the second control table T2 immediately after the output voltage becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 (from S122 to S123) or after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released (from S127 to S123), the determination in S124 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0076] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the device does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine unit 30 once with the second control table T2, and then returns to the first control table T1 after confirming that the output voltage has become smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 has decreased.

[0077] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if a strong wind continues. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0078] (Third example of the first embodiment) FIG. 9 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment.

[0079] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the third example of the first embodiment will be described. The wind turbine generator 1 of the third example of the first embodiment has a day / night acquisition unit 63 that acquires the current day / night state.

[0080] First, in S131, the control unit 8 executes a first control step of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the first control table T1 (A1). Subsequently, in S132, the control unit 8 determines whether the current state acquired by the day / night acquisition unit 63 is daytime or not. If it is determined in S132 that it is not daytime, the process proceeds to S136. Alternatively, the process may proceed to S134, where an initial braking step of switching to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2) is executed. If it is determined in S132 that it is daytime, the process proceeds to S133.

[0081] Next, in S133, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S132. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S134 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0082] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 of this embodiment is set to about 1 minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0083] After the short-circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S135 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short-circuit brake 711. Subsequently, in S136 the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 (AB), and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the release of the short-circuit brake 711. The set time may be determined in the same manner as in the first example of the first embodiment.

[0084] Next, in S137, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1, and whether the current day / night state acquired by the day / night acquisition unit 63 is night. The first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control threshold to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s. As in the first example of the first embodiment, a moving average value or the like may be used for the output voltage.

[0085] In S137, if the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and it is not nighttime, the process returns to S131 (BA). If in S137 the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 or if it is nighttime, the control unit 8 determines in S138 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be larger or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0086] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S138, the process returns to S137. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S138, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S139 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0087] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0088] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been in operation for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S140.

[0089] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S136 after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712. Then, in S136, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S137, if the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and it is daytime, the process returns to S131. Note that if operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after releasing the short-circuit brake 711 (from S135 to S136) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712 (from S140 to S136), the determination in S137 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0090] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 71 when switching between modes, and stops the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 once, so that the wind turbine unit 30 can rotate from the stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby eliminating sudden changes in load during rotation and reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30.

[0091] Furthermore, after the electromagnetic brake 712 is deactivated, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates once with the second control table T2, and then returns to the first control table T1 after confirming that the output voltage has become smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the rotation speed of the wind turbine section 30 has decreased.

[0092] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, the wind turbine unit 30 may suddenly accelerate immediately after restart if a strong wind continues, which may result in excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0093] Furthermore, according to the wind turbine generator 1 of the third example of the first embodiment, when the day / night acquisition unit 63 acquires that the current day / night state is night, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode. Therefore, the wind turbine unit 30 rotates at a low speed in the second control mode, which is a heavy load, and the wind turbine generator 1 can reduce noise at night.

[0094] (Fourth example of the first embodiment) FIG. 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth example of the first embodiment.

[0095] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the fourth example of the first embodiment will be described. The wind turbine generator 1 of the fourth example of the first embodiment has an operation unit state acquisition unit 64 that acquires the current state of an operation unit (not shown).

[0096] First, in S141, the control unit 8 executes a first control step of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the first control table T1 (A1). Subsequently, in S142, the control unit 8 determines whether the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is OFF. If it is determined in S142 that the state of the operation unit is not OFF, the process proceeds to S146. Alternatively, the process may proceed to S144, where an initial braking step of switching to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2) is executed. If it is determined in S142 that the state of the operation unit is OFF, the process proceeds to S143.

[0097] Next, in S143, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S142. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S144 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0098] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 of this embodiment is set to about 1 minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0099] After the short-circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S145 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short-circuit brake 711. Subsequently, in S146 the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 (AB), and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the release of the short-circuit brake 711. The set time may be determined in the same manner as in the first example of the first embodiment.

[0100] Next, in S147, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 and whether the operation unit is ON. Note that the first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s. As in the first example of the first embodiment, a moving average value or the like may be used for the output voltage.

[0101] If in S147 the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is OFF, the process returns to S141 (BA). If in S147 the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 or the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is ON, in S148 the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same value as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be larger or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0102] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S148, the process returns to S147. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S148, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S149 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0103] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0104] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been in operation for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S150.

[0105] The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment returns to S146 after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712. Then, in S146, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S147, if the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the operation unit is OFF, returns to S141. Note that if operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after releasing the short-circuit brake 711 (from S145 to S146) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712 (from S150 to S146), the determination in S147 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0106] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 71 when switching between modes, and stops the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 once, so that the wind turbine unit 30 can rotate from the stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby eliminating sudden changes in load during rotation and reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30.

[0107] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the device does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine unit 30 once with the second control table T2, and then confirms that the output voltage has become smaller than the return threshold and the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 has decreased before returning to the first control table T1.

[0108] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, the wind turbine unit 30 may suddenly accelerate immediately after restart if a strong wind continues, which may result in excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0109] Furthermore, according to the wind turbine generator 1 of the fourth example of the first embodiment, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode when it determines that the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is ON. Therefore, if the state of the operation unit acquired by the operation unit state acquisition unit 64 is ON, the wind turbine unit 30 rotates at a low speed in the second control mode which imposes a high load, and in the wind turbine generator 1, the user can operate the operation unit as necessary to rotate the wind turbine unit 30 at a low speed in the second control mode which imposes a high load, thereby reducing noise.

[0110] (Fifth example of the first embodiment) FIG. 11 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fifth example of the first embodiment.

[0111] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the fifth example of the first embodiment will be described. The wind turbine generator 1 of the fifth example of the first embodiment has a battery state acquisition unit 65 that acquires the current state of charge of the battery.

[0112] First, in S151, the control unit 8 executes a first control step (A1) of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the first control table T1. Subsequently, in S152, the control unit 8 determines whether the battery state acquired by the battery state acquisition unit 65 is not fully charged. If it is determined in S152 that the battery state is fully charged, the process proceeds to S156. Alternatively, the process may proceed to S154, where an initial braking step (A2) is executed to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time. If it is determined in S152 that the battery state is not fully charged, the process proceeds to S153.

[0113] Next, in S153, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S152. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S154 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0114] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 of this embodiment is set to about 1 minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0115] After the short-circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S155 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short-circuit brake 711. Subsequently, in S156 the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 (AB), and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the release of the short-circuit brake 711.

[0116] Next, in S157, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1, and whether the battery state acquired by the battery state acquisition unit 65 is fully charged. The first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s.

[0117] If in S157 the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the battery is not fully charged, the process returns to S151. If in S157 the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 or the battery is fully charged, in S158 the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0118] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S158, the process returns to S157. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S158, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S159 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0119] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0120] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S160.

[0121] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S156 after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712. Then, in S156, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S157, if the output voltage is lower than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the battery is fully charged, the process returns to S151. Note that if operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after releasing the short-circuit brake 711 (from S155 to S156) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712 (from S160 to S156), the determination in S157 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0122] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 71 when switching between modes, and stops the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 once, so that the wind turbine unit 30 can rotate from the stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby eliminating sudden changes in load during rotation and reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30.

[0123] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the device does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine unit 30 once with the second control table T2, and then returns to the first control table T1 after confirming that the output voltage has become smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 and the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 has decreased.

[0124] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, the wind turbine unit 30 may suddenly accelerate immediately after restart if a strong wind continues, which may result in excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of excessive rotation of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0125] Thus, according to the wind turbine generator 1 of the fifth example of the first embodiment, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode when the battery state acquisition unit 65 determines that the battery is fully charged. Therefore, when the battery is fully charged, the wind turbine unit 30 operates in the second control mode, which generates less power than in the first control mode, and the wind turbine generator 1 can reduce the risk of overcharging the battery.

[0126] (Sixth example of the first embodiment) FIG. 12 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the sixth example of the first embodiment.

[0127] The control table used in the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the sixth example of the first embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 12, the control table of the sixth example of the first embodiment has the first control table T1 and the second control table T2 identical for voltages lower than a preset branch voltage Pd, and has the first control table T1 and the second control table T2 branch off for voltages higher than the branch voltage Pd. The branch voltage Pd is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, for example, and more preferably less than 5 m / s.

[0128] The control unit 8 of the wind power generation device 1 of the sixth example of the first embodiment can switch from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, or from the second control table T2 to the first control table T1, at a voltage lower than the branch voltage Pd, thereby enabling smooth switching without a sudden change in load.

[0129] (First example of the second embodiment) FIG. 13 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the second embodiment.

[0130] The control table used in the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second embodiment will be described. The control table of the second embodiment has an intermediate control table TM that applies a load between the first control table T1 and the second control table T2 at each voltage value, as shown in Fig. 13. The intermediate load of the intermediate control table TM is preferably the average value at each voltage value of the first load of the first control table T1 and the second load of the second control table T2.

[0131] The control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second embodiment can suppress a sudden change in the load when switching from the first control mode using the first control table T1 to the second control mode using the second control table T2 by going through the intermediate control mode using the intermediate control table TM for a predetermined time of, for example, about 3 seconds. Furthermore, the control unit 8 can also suppress a sudden change in the load when switching from the second control mode to the first control mode by going through the intermediate control mode for a predetermined time of, for example, about 3 seconds.

[0132] FIG. 14 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the second embodiment.

[0133] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the first example of the second embodiment will be described. The wind turbine generator 1 of the first example of the second embodiment uses the intermediate control table TM shown in FIG.

[0134] First, in S211, the control unit 8 executes a first control step of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the first control table T1 (A1).

[0135] Next, in S212, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S212. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S213 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0136] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 of this embodiment is set to about 1 minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0137] After the short circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 711 in S214.

[0138] Next, in S215, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode (AB) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2, and operates the wind turbine unit 30 in the second control step for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 (B1) using the release of the short-circuit brake 711 as a trigger.

[0139] Next, in S216, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a first control return threshold Pr1. Note that the first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S216, the control unit 8 determines in S217 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0140] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S217, the process returns to S216. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S217, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S218 to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time (B2).

[0141] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0142] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, in S219 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 and returns to S215. Note that if operation is performed using the second control table T2 after the short circuit brake 711 has been released (from S214 to S215) or after the electromagnetic brake 712 has been released (from S219 to S215), the determination in S216 does not need to be made until the preset time has elapsed.

[0143] If the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S216, the process switches to an intermediate control step (BM) in S220, which switches the wind turbine unit 30 to an intermediate control mode based on the intermediate control table TM. After the intermediate control step is executed for a preset time, the process returns to S211 (MA).

[0144] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment can eliminate sudden changes in load and reduce the possibility of damage to the wind turbine section 30 by switching between the first control mode and the second control mode via the intermediate control mode.

[0145] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the system does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine section 30 at the second control table T2 and the intermediate control table TM, and then returns to the first control table T1.

[0146] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if a strong wind continues. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0147] Fig. 15 is an example of a control table for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the second embodiment. Fig. 16 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the second embodiment.

[0148] A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the second embodiment will be described. The wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the second embodiment uses the intermediate control table TM shown in FIG.

[0149] First, in S221, the control unit 8 executes a first control step of switching to a first control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the first control table T1 (A1).

[0150] Next, in S222, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage, as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1, is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S222. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, in S223, the control unit 8 switches to an intermediate control mode (AM) in which the wind turbine generator 1 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM, and executes an intermediate control step (M1). The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first threshold value P1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s.

[0151] Next, in S224, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode (MB) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2, and operates the wind turbine unit 30 in the second control step for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the intermediate control table TM to the second control table T2.

[0152] Next, in S225, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the intermediate control return threshold. The first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S225, the control unit 8 determines in S226 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0153] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold P2 in S226, the process returns to S225. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold P2 in S226, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S227 to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time (B2).

[0154] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0155] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, in S228 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 and returns to S224. Note that if operation is performed using the second control table T2 after switching from the intermediate control table TM to the second control table T2 (from S223 to S224) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 712 (from S228 to S224), the determination in S225 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0156] If in S225 the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, in S229, the control unit 8 switches to the intermediate control table TM (BM) and executes an intermediate control step (M1) to switch to an intermediate control mode in which the wind turbine generator 1 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM for a preset time. After the preset time has elapsed, the control unit 8 switches from the intermediate control step to the first control step and returns to S221 (MA).

[0157] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment can eliminate sudden changes in load and reduce the possibility of damage to the wind turbine section 30 by switching between the first control mode and the second control mode via the intermediate control mode.

[0158] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the system does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine section 30 at the second control table T2 and the intermediate control table TM, and then returns to the first control table T1.

[0159] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if a strong wind continues. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0160] (First example of the third embodiment) FIG. 17 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the third embodiment.

[0161] The control unit 8 of the first example of the third embodiment has four control tables: a first control table T1, a second control table T2, an intermediate control table TM, and a high-load control table TH. Each control table shows the relationship between output voltage and load current. The first control table T1, for example, as shown in A1, prioritizes the amount of power generation and applies a first load that operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a peripheral speed ratio that maximizes efficiency. The second control table T2, for example, as shown in B1, applies a second load that is larger than the first load of the first control table T1, and operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a low peripheral speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a large second load, the wind turbine unit 30 is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0162] The intermediate load of the intermediate control table TM is preferably the average value of the voltage values ​​of the first load of the first control table T1 and the second load of the second control table T2. When switching from the first control mode using the first control table T1 to the second control mode using the second control table T2, the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the first example of the third embodiment can suppress a sudden change in the load by going through the intermediate control mode using the intermediate control table TM for a predetermined time, for example, about 3 seconds. Furthermore, when switching from the second control mode to the first control mode, the control unit 8 can suppress a sudden change in the load by going through the intermediate control mode for a predetermined time, for example, about 3 seconds. The intermediate control table TM does not necessarily have to be used. The high load control table TH is an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, making the wind turbine unit 30 less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0163] In this way, the wind power generation device 1 of the first example of the third embodiment can switch between a first control table T1 that prioritizes power generation and operates the wind turbine section 30 at a circumferential speed ratio that results in maximum efficiency, a second control table T2 that applies a second load that is greater than the first load of the first control table T1 and operates the wind turbine section 30 at a low circumferential speed ratio, making it less likely for the wind turbine section 30 to rotate at high speed even in strong winds, and a medium control table TM with a medium load that is the average value of the voltage values ​​of the first load of the first control table T1 and the second load of the second control table T2, and a high load control table TH with an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, thereby improving the usability of the equipment and enabling efficient load application.

[0164] 18 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the third embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the third embodiment will be described.

[0165] First, in S311, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the first control table T1 (A1). When the load on the wind turbine generator 1 is changed based on the first control table T1, the wind turbine generator 1 operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a tip speed ratio that provides maximum efficiency, thereby maximizing the amount of power generation.

[0166] Next, in S312, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S312. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S313 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0167] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate. After the short circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S314 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 711.

[0168] Next, in S315, the control unit 8 switches to a high load control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the high load control table TH, and executes a high load control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a set time (H1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the high load control table TH, triggered by the release of the short circuit brake 711.

[0169] Next, in S316, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2. The high load threshold Ph may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the second control return threshold Pr2 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S316, the control unit 8 determines in S317 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high load threshold Ph. The high load threshold Ph may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1.

[0170] If the output voltage is less than the high load threshold Ph in S317, the process returns to S316. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high load threshold Ph in S317, the control unit 8 executes a high load braking step in S318 to switch to a high load braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset high load braking time (H2). After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the high load braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S319, and the process returns to S315.

[0171] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the high load threshold Ph is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably a typhoon-like strong wind of 20 m / s or more. In addition, the high load braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0172] If the output voltage is smaller than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S316, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode (HB) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2 in S320, and executes the second control step of operating for a set time (B1). Note that if operation is performed based on the high load control table TH after the short circuit brake 711 is released (from S314 to S315) or after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released (from S319 and S324 to S315), the determination in S316 does not need to be made until the preset time has elapsed.

[0173] Next, in S321, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. Note that the first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the second control return threshold Pr2. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s.

[0174] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S321, the control unit 8 determines in S322 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1. Note that if operation is performed according to the second control table T2 immediately after the output voltage becomes smaller than the second control return threshold Pr2 (S316 to S320), the determination in S321 may not be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0175] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold P2 in S322, the process returns to S321. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold P2 in S322, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S323 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0176] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0177] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been in operation for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S324, and the process returns to S315.

[0178] If the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S321, the control unit 8 switches to the intermediate control table TM (BM) in S325, and executes an intermediate control step (M1) to switch to an intermediate control mode in which the wind turbine generator 1 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM for a preset time. After the preset time has elapsed, the control unit 8 switches from the intermediate control step to the first control step, and returns to S311 (MA).

[0179] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can suppress sudden changes in load by going through the intermediate control mode using the intermediate control table TM. Furthermore, when switching from the second control mode to the first control mode, the control unit 8 can suppress sudden changes in load by going through the intermediate control mode for a predetermined time. Furthermore, by using the high load control table TH, which has an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, the control unit 8 makes it less likely that the wind turbine unit 30 will over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0180] Furthermore, after the electromagnetic brake 712 is deactivated, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates at the high load control table TH, the second control table T2, and the intermediate control table TM before returning to the first control table T1.

[0181] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if strong winds continue. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating. Note that the intermediate control table TM does not have to be used.

[0182] (First example of the fourth embodiment) FIG. 14 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the fourth embodiment.

[0183] The control unit 8 of the first example of the fourth embodiment has two control tables: a first control table T1 and a second control table T2. Both control tables show the relationship between output voltage and load current. The first control table T1 places emphasis on the amount of power generation and applies a first load that operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a peripheral speed ratio that maximizes efficiency. The second control table T2 applies a second load that is larger than the first load of the first control table T1, operating the wind turbine unit 30 at a low peripheral speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a larger second load, the wind turbine unit 30 is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds. The control unit 8 of the first example of the fourth embodiment switches (AB) from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 at a constant load current.

[0184] As described above, the wind turbine generator 1 of the first example of the fourth embodiment can switch between the first control table T1, which prioritizes power generation and operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a circumferential speed ratio that maximizes efficiency, and the second control table T2, which applies a second load greater than the first load of the first control table T1 to operate the wind turbine unit 30 at a low circumferential speed ratio, making it difficult for the wind turbine unit 30 to rotate at high speed even in strong winds, and prioritizes safety, thereby improving the usability of the facility. Furthermore, the control unit 8 of the first example of the fourth embodiment switches (AB) from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 while maintaining a constant load current. This eliminates sudden load changes and reduces the possibility of damage to the generator.

[0185] 20 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the fourth embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0186] First, in S411, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine generator 1 based on the first control table T1 (A1). When the load on the wind turbine unit 30 is changed based on the first control table T1, the wind turbine generator 1 operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a tip speed ratio that provides maximum efficiency, thereby maximizing the amount of power generation.

[0187] Next, in S412, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage, as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1, is equal to or greater than a preset preparation threshold value P0. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the preparation threshold value P0, the process returns to S412. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the preparation threshold value P0, in S413 the output voltage is stored as a peak voltage in the storage unit 82. Note that the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the preparation threshold value P0 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s.

[0188] Next, in S414, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is smaller than the peak voltage stored in the memory unit 82. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage, the process proceeds to S417. If the output voltage is smaller than the peak voltage, in S415 the control unit 8 maintains the peak load current value corresponding to the peak voltage in the first control table T1 (load peak hold) and operates the wind turbine unit 30 (AB).

[0189] Next, in S416, the control unit 8 determines whether the peak load current is greater than the load current corresponding to the output voltage as the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 in the second control table T2. If the peak load current is greater than the current value in the second control table T2 in S416, the process proceeds to S420. If the peak load current is smaller than the current value in the second control table T2 in S416, the process returns to S414.

[0190] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S414, the control unit 8 determines in S417 whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S413. That is, the peak voltage is updated to a larger value. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S418 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0191] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed greater than the preparation threshold value P0, that is, a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s. The initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate. After the short circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S419 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 711.

[0192] Next, in S420, the control unit 8 switches to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2, and executes a second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 when triggered by the release of the short-circuit brake 711 or by the output voltage decreasing to the point where the peak load current becomes larger than the current value of the second control table T2 due to the load peak hold.

[0193] Next, in S421, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. Note that the first control return threshold Pr1 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S421, the control unit 8 determines in S422 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1. In addition, if operation is performed using the second control table T2 immediately after the peak load current becomes larger than the current value of the second control table T2 (from S416 to S420), after the short-circuit brake 711 is released (from S419 to S420), or after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released (from S424 to S420), the judgment of S421 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0194] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold P2 in S422, the process returns to S421. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold P2 in S422, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S423 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0195] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0196] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S424, and the process returns to S420.

[0197] If in S421 the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S411. In S421, a moving average value of the output voltage may be used. For example, the determination is made based on whether the moving average value of the output voltage over a predetermined time period in the past is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. The predetermined time period may be between 1 minute and 10 minutes. During strong winds such as typhoons, there are large fluctuations in wind speed, and a momentary low wind speed may cause the control to return to the first control mode. Therefore, it is safer to make the determination based on the moving average value rather than the instantaneous value.

[0198] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can improve the capacity factor by switching from the first control mode to the second control mode without going through the initial braking mode when the wind speed is above a predetermined value. Furthermore, by switching from the first control mode to the second control mode while maintaining a constant load current, abrupt changes in load can be eliminated, reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30. Furthermore, because the load when switching from the first control mode to the second control mode (AB) is greater than that of the first control table T1, the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 decreases in a shorter time than when operating with the first control table T1, which is safer.

[0199] Furthermore, after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates at the second control table T2 and then returns to the first control table T1.

[0200] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if a strong wind continues. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0201] (Second example of the fourth embodiment) FIG. 21 shows an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the fourth embodiment.

[0202] The control unit 8 of the second example of the fourth embodiment has four control tables: a first control table T1, a second control table T2, an intermediate control table TM, and a high-load control table TH. Each control table shows the relationship between output voltage and load current. The first control table T1 prioritizes power generation and applies a first load that operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a peripheral speed ratio that maximizes efficiency. The second control table T2 applies a second load that is greater than the first load of the first control table T1, operating the wind turbine unit 30 at a low peripheral speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a larger second load, the wind turbine unit 30 is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds. The control unit 8 of the second example of the fourth embodiment preferably switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 while maintaining a constant load current.

[0203] The intermediate load of the intermediate control table TM is preferably the average value of the voltage values ​​of the first load of the first control table T1 and the second load of the second control table T2. When switching from the first control mode using the first control table T1 to the second control mode using the second control table T2, the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the fourth embodiment can suppress a sudden change in the load by going through the intermediate control mode using the intermediate control table TM for a predetermined time, for example, about 3 seconds. Furthermore, when switching from the second control mode to the first control mode, the control unit 8 can suppress a sudden change in the load by going through the intermediate control mode for a predetermined time, for example, about 3 seconds. The high load control table TH is an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, making it less likely for the wind turbine unit 30 to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0204] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the fourth embodiment can switch between the first control table T1, which prioritizes power generation and operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a tip speed ratio that maximizes efficiency, the second control table T2, which applies a second load greater than the first load of the first control table T1 to operate the wind turbine unit 30 at a low tip speed ratio, making it less likely for the wind turbine unit 30 to rotate at high speed even in strong winds, and the intermediate control table TM, which sets an intermediate load that is the average of the voltage values ​​of the first load of the first control table T1 and the second load of the second control table T2, and the high load control table TH, which sets an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, thereby improving the usability of the facility. Note that the intermediate control table TM does not necessarily have to be used.

[0205] 22 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the fourth embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0206] First, in S431, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the first control table T1 (A1). When the load on the wind turbine generator 1 is changed based on the first control table T1, the wind turbine generator 1 operates at a tip speed ratio that provides maximum efficiency, thereby maximizing the amount of power generation.

[0207] Next, in S432, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage, as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1, is equal to or greater than a preset preparation threshold value P0. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the preparation threshold value P0, the process returns to S432. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the preparation threshold value P0, in S433 the output voltage is stored as a peak voltage in the storage unit 82. Note that the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the preparation threshold value P0 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s.

[0208] Next, in S434, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is smaller than the peak voltage stored in the memory unit 82. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S434, the process proceeds to S442. If the output voltage is smaller than the peak voltage in S434, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 (AB) while maintaining the peak load current value corresponding to the peak voltage in the first control table T1 (load peak hold).

[0209] Next, in S436, the control unit 8 determines whether the peak load current is greater than the load current corresponding to the output voltage as the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 in the second control table T2. If the peak load current is greater than the current value in the second control table T2, the process proceeds to S437. If the peak load current is smaller than the current value in the second control table T2, the process returns to S434.

[0210] If in S436 the peak load current is greater than the current value in the second control table T2, in S437 the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2, and executes the second control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a set time (B1).

[0211] Next, in S438, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first control return threshold Pr1 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s.

[0212] If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S438, the process returns to S431. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S438, the control unit 8 determines in S439 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold P2. The second threshold P2 may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1. Note that if operation is performed according to the second control table T2 immediately after the peak load current becomes greater than the current value in the second control table T2 (S436 to S437) or immediately after the output voltage becomes smaller than the second control return threshold Pr2 (S446 to S437), the determination in S438 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0213] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S439, the process returns to S438. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second threshold value P2 in S439, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S440 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0214] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the second threshold P2 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a strong wind such as a typhoon with a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably 20 m / s or more. In addition, the strong wind braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 in this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0215] After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S441, and the process proceeds to S445.

[0216] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S434, the control unit 8 determines in S442 whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 62 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, the process returns to S433. That is, the peak voltage is updated to a larger value. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1, an initial braking step is executed in S443 (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 711 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time.

[0217] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the first threshold value P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m / s or more and less than 20 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s. The initial braking time for activating the short circuit brake 711 in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but any predetermined time may be set as appropriate. After the short circuit brake 711 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S444 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 711.

[0218] Next, in S445, the control unit 8 switches to a high load control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the high load control table TH, and executes a high load control step in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a set time (H1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the high load control table TH, triggered by the release of the short circuit brake 711.

[0219] Next, in S446, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the second control return threshold Pr2 to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably less than 5 m / s.

[0220] If the output voltage is less than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S446, the process returns to S437. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S446, the control unit 8 determines in S447 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high load threshold Ph. The high load threshold Ph may be the same as or different from the first threshold P1, and may be greater or smaller than the first threshold P1. Note that if operation is performed using the high load control table TH after the short circuit brake 711 is released (S444 to S445) or after the electromagnetic brake 712 is released (S441 and S449 to S445), the determination in S446 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0221] If the output voltage is less than the high load threshold Ph in S447, the process returns to S446. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high load threshold Ph in S447, the control unit 8 executes a high load braking step in S448 to switch to a high load braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 712 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset high load braking time (H2). After the electromagnetic brake 712 has been activated for the high load braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 712 in S449, and the process returns to S445.

[0222] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the high load threshold Ph is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 15 m / s or more, more preferably a typhoon-like strong wind of 20 m / s or more. In addition, the high load braking time for operating the electromagnetic brake 712 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0223] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can improve the capacity factor by switching from the first control mode to the second control mode without going through the initial braking mode when the wind speed is above a predetermined value. Furthermore, by switching from the first control mode to the second control mode while maintaining a constant load current, abrupt changes in load can be eliminated, reducing the possibility of damage to the wind turbine unit 30. Furthermore, because the load when switching from the first control mode to the second control mode (AB) is greater than that of the first control table T1, the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30 decreases in a shorter time than when operating with the first control table T1, which is safer.

[0224] Furthermore, after the electromagnetic brake 712 is deactivated, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates at the high load control table TH and the second control table T2 before returning to the first control table T1.

[0225] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 712, there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will suddenly accelerate immediately after restart and over-rotate if a strong wind continues. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0226] (Other embodiments) As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0227] In the above embodiment, a vertical axis drag type wind turbine generator has been described as the wind turbine generator 1, but other vertical axis wind turbine generators or horizontal axis wind turbine generators may also be used.

[0228] In the above embodiment, the pressure-receiving member 5 is described as rotating clockwise around the rotation center axis O1, but it may also rotate counterclockwise, in which case the shapes of the support member 4 and the pressure-receiving member 5 can be reversed.

[0229] In the above embodiment, the multiple pressure-receiving members 5 have been described as having shapes such as those shown in FIG. 3 and the like. However, the shape of the pressure-receiving members 5 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the shape of the pressure-receiving members 5 may be a C-shaped (arc-shaped) cross section as used in Savonius wind turbines, or a J-shaped cross section as used in Bach wind turbines. In such cases, the shape of the support member 4 may also be changed as appropriate. The pressure-receiving members 5 may also have a shape used in other vertical axis generators, such as a linear cross section as used in straight blade-type wind turbines, or a circular cross section as used in cylindrical blade-type wind turbines. Furthermore, the pressure-receiving members 5 may have a shape used in horizontal axis wind power generators, such as a blade-shaped cross section as used in propeller-type wind turbines, a linear cross section as used in Dutch-type wind turbines, or a sail-shaped cross section.

[0230] In the above embodiment, the short-circuit brake 711 is used in the initial braking mode and the electromagnetic brake 712 is used in the strong wind braking mode, but it is also possible to use the short-term short-circuit brake 711 in the initial braking mode and the long-term short-circuit brake 711 in the initial braking mode. [Explanation of symbols]

[0231] 1...Wind power generation device, 2... supporting housing, 3... supporting shaft, 4... supporting member, 5... pressure-receiving member, 10...drag turbine unit, 20...power generation unit, 30...wind turbine section, 40...Curved external part, 41...Straight external part, 43...Connection mechanism part, 50~52...Wall surface part, 50...outer wall surface portion, 51...first inner wall surface portion, 52...second inner wall surface portion, 53...outer end, 54...inner end, 55...outer boundary, 56...inner boundary, 6...input unit, 61...time acquisition unit, 62...rotation state acquisition unit, 63...day / night acquisition unit, 64...operation unit state acquisition unit, 65...battery state acquisition unit, 7...output section, 71...braking section, 71...short circuit brake, 72...electromagnetic brake, 8...control unit, 81...determination unit, 82...storage unit, 83...processing unit

Claims

1. In a wind power generation device, a wind turbine unit rotates due to wind force relative to a support housing installed at a predetermined installation location, thereby generating electricity using a power generation unit, a rotation state acquisition unit that acquires a state value indicating a rotation state of the wind turbine unit; a braking unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit; a control unit that switches between a plurality of preset control modes based on the state value; Equipped with The control unit a first control mode in which, when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold, a first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; a second control mode in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first control mode, a second load greater than the first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; a strong wind braking mode in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value in the second control mode, the braking unit operates for a predetermined strong wind braking time; Switch between In the strong wind braking mode, after the strong wind braking time has elapsed and the braking unit has been released, control is performed in the second control mode, When the rotation state acquisition unit is in the second control mode and the value is less than a preset return threshold value, the control mode is returned to the first control mode. Wind power generation equipment.

2. the first control mode controls the first load based on the state value according to a preset first control table; the second control mode controls the second load based on the state value according to a preset second control table; The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

3. When switching between the first control mode and the second control mode, an intermediate control mode is used to apply an intermediate load between the first load and the second load. The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

4. the intermediate control mode controls the intermediate load based on the state value according to a preset intermediate control table; The wind turbine generator according to claim 3.

5. The control unit an initial braking mode in which the braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time when the state value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value; After the initial braking time has elapsed in the initial braking mode and the braking unit is released, the control mode is switched to the second control mode. The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

6. When switching from the first control mode to the second control mode, the control mode is switched while maintaining the load current value. The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

7. a high load control mode that applies a load higher than the second load in the second control mode; The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

8. the high load control mode controls the high load based on the state value according to a preset high load control table; The wind turbine generator according to claim 7.

9. A control method for a wind turbine generator in which a wind turbine unit rotates relative to a support housing installed at a predetermined installation location to generate electricity using a power generation unit, comprising: The wind power generation device is a rotation state acquisition unit that acquires a state value indicating a rotation state of the wind turbine unit; a braking unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit; Equipped with switching between a plurality of preset control modes based on the state value; A method for controlling a wind turbine generator, comprising: a first control step of applying a first load to the wind turbine unit based on the state value when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold value; a second control step of applying a second load greater than the first load to the wind turbine unit based on the state value when the state value becomes equal to or greater than the first threshold value in the first control step; a strong wind braking step in which, when the state value becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined second threshold value in the second control step, the braking unit operates for a predetermined strong wind braking time; and In the strong wind braking step, after the strong wind braking time has elapsed and the braking unit has been released, the process returns to the second control step, In the second control step, if the rotation state acquisition unit is less than a preset return threshold value, the control returns to the first control step. A method for controlling a wind power generating device.

10. the first control step controls the first load based on the state value according to a preset first control table; the second control step controls the second load based on the state value according to a preset second control table; The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 9.

11. an intermediate control step of applying an intermediate load between the first load and the second load when switching between the first control step and the second control step; The wind turbine generator according to claim 9.

12. the intermediate control step controls the intermediate load based on the state value according to a preset intermediate control table; The wind turbine generator according to claim 11.

13. an initial braking step of operating the braking unit for a preset initial braking time when the state value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value; After the initial braking time has elapsed in the initial braking step and the braking unit is released, the control is switched to the second control step. The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 9.

14. When switching from the first control step to the second control step, the switching is performed while maintaining the load current value. The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 9.

15. a high load control step of applying a load higher than the second load in the second control step; The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 9.

16. the high load control step controls the high load based on the state value according to a preset high load control table; The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 15.

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