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 processing a sudden change in a wind speed such as a gust.SOLUTION: A wind power generation device 1 generates power by a power generation unit by rotation of a wind turbine part rotated by wind power with respect to a support housing installed at a predetermined installation place. A first control mode in which a first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine part 30 when the state value is smaller than a preset first threshold value and a second control mode in which a second load larger than the first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine part 30 when the state value is equal to or larger than the first threshold value are switched.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

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 [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] Hiroki Murakami and Takashi Adachi, "Method for Estimating Gust Rates in the Kanto Region," Educational Practice Research 13, 2008, pp. 53-83 [Non-patent document 2] Ishizaki, Hakuo, "Characteristics of Wind Turbulence and Average Wind Speed ​​during Typhoons," Kyoto University Disaster Prevention Research Institute Annual Report No. 24, B-1, April 1981, pp. 279-284 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] 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.

[0006] However, the wind turbine generators described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not respond to a gust rate, which indicates a sudden change in the rotation speed of the wind turbine. If the rotation speed of a rotating wind turbine generator increases suddenly due to a gust rate, the wind turbine unit may be damaged. Gusts are difficult to predict, so the appropriate response is to respond immediately when a gust is detected. Also, since gusts may occur multiple times in succession, it is preferable to prepare for the next gust once a gust is detected.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a wind power generation device that can respond immediately to a sudden gust of wind while at the same time preparing for the next gust of wind, thereby dealing with the situation appropriately and preventing damage to the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] 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 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, a second load greater than the first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; Switch between In the first control mode, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold, the control mode is switched to the second control mode.

[0009] 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: 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; 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 based on the state value to the wind turbine unit when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold value; a second control step of applying a second load to the wind turbine unit when the state value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the second load being greater than the first load based on the state value; Switch between In the first control process, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold, the process switches to the second control process. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the wind power generation device and the control method for the wind power generation device of one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to immediately respond to a sudden gust of wind while preparing for the next gust of wind, thereby appropriately dealing with the situation and preventing damage to the device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [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 the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing an example of a gust rate of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is an example of a control flowchart of a wind turbine generator 1 according to a first example of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] 14 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment, following FIG. 13. [Figure 15] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] 17 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment, following FIG. 16. [Figure 18] 10 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] 20 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment, following FIG. 19. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] 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.

[0013] (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.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The first inner wall surface portion 51 extends between the outer boundary portion 55 and the inner boundary portion 56 and is formed in a curved or planar shape that bulges outward in the radial direction Dr1. The first inner wall surface portion 51 may be formed, for example, in a curved shape, such as a circular arc, an elliptical arc, or any other curved shape in a planar view. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the first inner wall surface portion 51 may be formed in a planar shape that is a straight line in a planar view. When the outer wall surface portion 50 has a curved arc shape in a planar view, the first inner wall surface portion 51 may be formed in a planar shape that is a tangent to an end of the outer wall surface portion 50 on the outer boundary portion 55 side, and the outer boundary portion 55 may be positioned 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 for smooth airflow from the outer wall surface portion 50 toward the first inner wall surface portion 51.

[0031] The second inner wall surface portion 52 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] (System Configuration) FIG. 4 is an example of a system configuration diagram of the wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can control the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 relative to the support housing 2. The wind turbine generator 1 includes a rotation state acquisition unit 6, a braking unit 7, and a control unit 8.

[0043] The rotational state acquisition unit 6 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 6 measures a state value corresponding to the rotation speed of the wind turbine unit 30. The rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment has a voltmeter 61 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 6 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, or an anemometer installed around the wind turbine unit 30.

[0044] The braking unit 7 brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30. In this embodiment, the braking unit 7 has a short-circuit brake 71 as a first braking unit and an electromagnetic brake 72 as a second braking unit. The short-circuit brake 71 forcibly shorts the terminals of the generator to stop it. The electromagnetic brake 72 controls power and rotational motion by utilizing an electromagnetic force generated by passing electricity through a coil. Note that the braking unit 7 may include at least one of the first braking unit or the second braking unit. The braking unit 7 is not limited to the short-circuit brake 71 and the electromagnetic brake 72, and may be any unit that brakes the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30.

[0045] (control table) FIG. 5 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the first embodiment.

[0046] The control unit 8 controls the load applied to the wind turbine unit 30 and adjusts the rotation speed in accordance with the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6. In this embodiment, the control unit 8 compares the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 with various preset thresholds to switch between multiple control tables and activate the braking unit 7.

[0047] The control unit 8 of the first example of the first 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 6 of the wind turbine generator 1. The first control table T1 prioritizes the amount of power generation and operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a tip speed ratio that maximizes efficiency. The second control table T2 operates the wind turbine unit 30 at a lower tip speed ratio than the first load of the first control table T1. Because the second control table T2 has a larger second load, the wind turbine unit 30 is less likely to rotate at high speed even in strong winds or gusts.

[0048] 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 prioritizes safety by applying a second load that is greater than the first load of the first control table T1 and operating the wind turbine section 30 at a low circumferential speed ratio, making it less likely that the wind turbine section 30 will rotate at high speed even in strong winds or gusts, thereby improving the usability of the equipment.

[0049] (Gust Rate) Figure 6 shows an example of the gust rate of the wind turbine generator 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 6(a) shows an example of the relationship between the maximum wind speed and the gust rate. Figure 6(b) shows an example of the relationship between the gust rate and the gust threshold.

[0050] The control unit 8 controls the braking unit 7 in response to a sudden gust of wind. A sudden gust of wind is determined when the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold. The gust rate is calculated by dividing the instantaneous wind speed by the average wind speed. Note that the wind speed does not need to be measured directly; a state value linked to the wind speed may be used. In this embodiment, the gust rate is calculated as an instantaneous state value divided by the average state value over a preset period of time, using the state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6. For example, the state value in this embodiment is the output voltage of the power generation unit 20. Therefore, the gust rate is calculated as an instantaneous voltage divided by the average voltage over a preset period of time. The preset period of time may be determined as appropriate, and is set to approximately one minute in this embodiment.

[0051] The gust rate varies depending on the average wind speed. As shown in FIG. 6(a), a phenomenon in which a gust changes to a high instantaneous wind speed when the average wind speed is low is more likely to occur than a phenomenon in which a gust changes to an even higher instantaneous wind speed when the average wind speed is high. To address this phenomenon, the gust threshold Pg is varied depending on the average wind speed. As shown in FIG. 6(b), the gust threshold Pg is set low when the average wind speed is high and high when the average wind speed is low. In this way, by varying the gust threshold Pg, the control unit 8 can appropriately control the braking unit 7 depending on the situation.

[0052] For example, the state value in this embodiment uses the output voltage of the power generating unit 20. Therefore, the gust threshold Pg is changed according to the average voltage. The gust threshold Pg is set low when the average voltage is high and set high when the average voltage is low. The state value is not limited to the output voltage, and may be the load current of the power generating unit 20, the rotation speed of the support shaft 3, or the wind speed around the support shaft 3, etc.

[0053] It is preferable to refer to Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2 for information on wind gust rates.

[0054] (First embodiment) FIG. 7 is an example of a control flowchart of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the first example of the first embodiment.

[0055] The control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the first example of the first 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.

[0056] Next, in S112, the control unit 8 calculates a gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold Pg. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the gust threshold Pg in S112, the process proceeds to S114. If the gust rate is not equal to or greater than the gust threshold Pg in S112, the control unit 8 determines in S113 whether the output voltage acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S113, the process returns to S112. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S113, the process proceeds to S114.

[0057] Next, in S114, an initial braking step is executed (A2) to switch to an initial braking mode in which short circuit brake 71 as a first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time. In wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, gust threshold Pg is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 1.2 or more and less than 3, more preferably 1.5 or more and less than 2, and first threshold P1 is set to an output voltage corresponding to a wind speed of 5 m or more and less than 20 m, more preferably 12 m or more and less than 15 m. Furthermore, the initial braking time for activating short circuit brake 71 in this embodiment is approximately 1 minute, but any predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0058] After the short-circuit brake 71 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S115 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short-circuit brake 71. Subsequently, in S116 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 71.

[0059] 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 P1 in S113. 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 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, 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 7 is stopped, resulting in a small moving average value. The output voltage in this specification may similarly be a moving average value or the like.

[0060] When operating with the second control table T2 after releasing the short circuit brake 71 (S115 to S116) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 72 (S120 to S116), the determination in S117 may not be made until a preset time has elapsed. Also, when the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the wind gust rate (S112 to S114), the time may be short, for example, about 3 minutes, and when the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the output voltage (S113 to S114), the time may be long, for example, about 1 hour.

[0061] Next, in S117, 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 a wind speed of less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S117, the process returns to S111 (BA). If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S117, the control unit 8 determines in S118 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.

[0062] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S118, the process returns to S117. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S118, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S119 to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time (B2).

[0063] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0064] After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S120.

[0065] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S116 after the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released. Then, in S116, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S117, if the output voltage becomes smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S111. Note that if the wind turbine generator 1 operates based on the second control table T2 after activating the short-circuit brake 71 or the electromagnetic brake 72, the determination in S117 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0066] As described above, according to the control method for wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold, the control mode is switched to the second control mode, which imposes a heavier load. This allows for an immediate response to a sudden gust while also preparing for the next gust, thereby enabling appropriate handling and preventing damage to the generator. Furthermore, if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold, braking unit 7 is activated for a preset initial braking time, enabling more appropriate handling of a sudden gust and preventing damage to wind turbine unit 30.

[0067] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching 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 suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0068] Furthermore, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released, 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 return threshold and the rotation speed of the wind turbine section 30 has decreased.

[0069] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0070] (Second example of the first embodiment) Fig. 8 is an example of a control table for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment. Fig. 9 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second example of the first embodiment.

[0071] The control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 of the second example of the first embodiment will be described below. 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.

[0072] Next, in S122, the control unit 8 calculates a gust rate from the output voltage acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the gust threshold in S122, the process proceeds to S124. If the gust rate is not equal to or greater than the gust threshold in S122, the control unit 8 determines in S123 whether the output voltage acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S123, the process returns to S122. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S123, the process proceeds to S124.

[0073] In S124, 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 executes the second control step (B1). That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the gust threshold Pg or the first threshold P1.

[0074] Next, in S125, 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.

[0075] Note that if operation is performed using the second control table T2 after the electromagnetic brake 72 is released (S128 to S124), the determination in S125 may not be made until a preset time has elapsed. Also, if the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the wind gust rate (S122 to S124), the time may be short, for example, about 3 minutes, and if the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the output voltage (S123 to S124), the time may be long, for example, about 1 hour.

[0076] If the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S125, the process returns to S121 (BA). If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S125, the control unit 8 determines in S126 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second threshold P2.

[0077] If the output voltage is less than the second threshold value P2 in S126, the process returns to S125. If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S126, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S127 to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time (B2).

[0078] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0079] After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S128.

[0080] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S124 after the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released. Then, in S124, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and in S125, if the output voltage becomes smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S121 (BA). Note that if the operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after the electromagnetic brake 72 is activated, the determination in S125 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0081] Thus, according to the control method for the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode, the gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold Pg, the control mode is switched to the second control mode, which has a higher load. This makes it possible to respond immediately to a sudden gust of wind while also preparing for the next gust, thereby handling it appropriately and preventing damage to the wind turbine section 30.

[0082] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching between modes, and stops the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 once, so that the wind turbine unit 30 can be rotated from the stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0083] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 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.

[0084] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0085] (Third example of the first embodiment) Fig. 10 is an example of a control table for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third example of the first embodiment. Fig. 11 is an example of a control flowchart for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third example of the first embodiment.

[0086] 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. First, in S131, 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.

[0087] Next, in S132, the control unit 8 calculates a gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold Pg. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the gust threshold Pg in S132, the process proceeds to S136. If the gust rate is not equal to or greater than the gust threshold Pg in S132, the control unit 8 determines in S133 whether the output voltage acquired by the rotational state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold P1. If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S133, the process returns to S132. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold P1 in S133, the process proceeds to S134.

[0088] Next, in S134, an initial braking step is executed to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short circuit brake 71 serving as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2). The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the first threshold 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. The time period for which the short circuit brake 71 is activated in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but a predetermined time period may also be set appropriately. After the short circuit brake 71 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S135 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 71.

[0089] Next, in S136, the control unit 8 executes a second control step (B1) of switching to a second control mode in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the second control table T2. That is, the control unit 8 switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2, triggered by the gust threshold Pg or the release of the short-circuit brake 71.

[0090] Next, in S137, 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.

[0091] When operating with the second control table T2 after releasing the short circuit brake 71 (S135 to S136) or after releasing the electromagnetic brake 72 (S140 to S136), the determination in S137 may not be made until a preset time has elapsed. Also, when the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the wind gust rate (S132 to S136), the time may be short, for example, about 3 minutes, and when the short circuit brake 71 is activated due to the output voltage (S135 to S136), the time may be long, for example, about 1 hour.

[0092] If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S137, the process returns to S131 (BA). If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S137, 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 greater or smaller than the first threshold P1 and the first control return threshold Pr1.

[0093] 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 72 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time.

[0094] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0095] After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the strong wind braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S140.

[0096] In the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, the process returns to S136 after the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released. 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 becomes smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1, the process returns to S131. Note that if the operation is performed based on the second control table T2 after the electromagnetic brake 72 is activated, the determination in S137 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0097] Thus, according to the control method for the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode, the gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold Pg, the control mode is switched to the second control mode, which has a higher load. This makes it possible to respond immediately to a sudden gust of wind while also preparing for the next gust, thereby handling it appropriately and preventing damage to the wind turbine section 30.

[0098] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching 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 suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0099] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 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.

[0100] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0101] (Second embodiment) FIG. 12 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment.

[0102] The control unit 8 of the second 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 tip 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 tip 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 embodiment preferably switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 at a constant load.

[0103] 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 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.

[0104] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of the second 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, preventing the wind turbine unit 30 from rotating at high speed even in strong winds and prioritizing safety; 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.

[0105] 13 and 14 are examples of control flowcharts for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0106] First, in S211, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time 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.

[0107] Next, in S212, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 in S212, an initial braking step is executed in S213 to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 71 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2).

[0108] 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 time period for which the short circuit brake 71 is activated in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but any appropriate predetermined time period may be set. After the short circuit brake 71 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S214 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 71, and the process proceeds to S218.

[0109] If in S212 the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold P1, in S215 the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset first gust threshold Pg1. If in S215 the gust rate is less than the first gust threshold Pg1, the process returns to S212. If in S215 the gust rate is equal to or greater than the first gust threshold Pg1, the process proceeds to S216 (C11).

[0110] In S216, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time using the intermediate control table TM (M1). Subsequently, in S217, 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 (C12), and operates the wind turbine unit 30 in the second control step for a preset time (B1).

[0111] Next, in S218, 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 preset 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 71 or the gust threshold Pg.

[0112] Next, in S219, 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. Note that if operation is performed using the high load control table TH after the short circuit brake 71 is released (S214 to S218), after the electromagnetic brake 72 is released (S222, S225, S230 to S218), or if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the third gust threshold Pg3 (S231 to S218), the determination in S219 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0113] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S219, the control unit 8 determines in S220 whether the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high load threshold Ph. If the output voltage is less than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S219, the process proceeds to S226. 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.

[0114] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high-load threshold Ph in S220, the control unit 8 executes a high-load braking step in S221 to switch to a high-load braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset high-load braking time (H2). After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the high-load braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S222 and returns to S218.

[0115] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0116] If the output voltage is smaller than the high load threshold Ph in S220, the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in S223, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset second gust threshold Pg2. If the gust rate is smaller than the second gust threshold Pg2 in S223, the process returns to S219. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the second gust threshold Pg2 in S223, the process proceeds to S224 (C2).

[0117] Next, in S224, the control unit 8 executes a gust braking step (H3) to switch to a gust braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset gust braking time. After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the gust braking time, in S225 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 and returns to S218.

[0118] If the output voltage is smaller than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S219, in S226, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode (HB) to operate the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and operates in the second control step for a preset time (B1).

[0119] Next, in S227, 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 less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S227, the process proceeds to S232.

[0120] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S227, the control unit 8 determines in S228 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.

[0121] If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S228, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S229 (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time, and then releases the electromagnetic brake 72.

[0122] If the output voltage is smaller than the second threshold P2 in S228, the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in S231, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset third gust threshold Pg3. If the gust rate is smaller than the third gust threshold Pg3 in S231, the process returns to S227. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the second gust threshold Pg2 in S231, the process returns to S218 (C3).

[0123] If the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S227, the control unit 8 switches to an intermediate control mode (BM) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM for a preset time (M1) in S232. After the preset time has elapsed, the process returns to S211 (MA).

[0124] Thus, according to the control method for the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode, the gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold Pg, the control mode is switched to the second control mode, which has a higher load. This makes it possible to respond immediately to a sudden gust of wind while also preparing for the next gust, thereby handling it appropriately and preventing damage to the wind turbine section 30.

[0125] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching modes, and stops the rotation of the wind turbine unit 30 once, so that the wind turbine unit 30 can rotate from a stopped state after the mode is switched, thereby suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0126] Furthermore, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates once with the high load control table TH or 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.

[0127] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0128] In addition, by using an intermediate control mode between the first control mode and the second control mode, which uses an intermediate control table TM having a load intermediate between the first control table T1 and the second control table T2, it is possible to suppress sudden changes in the load on the wind turbine section 30 during rotation.

[0129] (Third embodiment) FIG. 15 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment.

[0130] The control unit 8 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 prioritizes 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 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 tip speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a larger second load, it is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds. The control unit 8 of the second embodiment preferably switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 while maintaining a constant load.

[0131] 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 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 high load control table TH is an even higher load than the second load of the second control table T2, and is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0132] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 of the third 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 to rotate at high speed even in strong winds and prioritizing safety, 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.

[0133] 16 and 17 are examples of control flowcharts for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0134] 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.

[0135] Next, in S312, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 in S312, an initial braking step is executed in S313 to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 71 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2).

[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 / 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 time period for which the short circuit brake 71 is activated in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but any other predetermined time period may be set. After the short circuit brake 71 has been activated for the initial braking time, in S314 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 71 and proceeds to S322.

[0137] If in S312 the output voltage is not greater than or equal to the first threshold P1, in S315 the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is greater than or equal to a preset first gust threshold Pg1. If in S315 the gust rate is less than the first gust threshold Pg1, the process returns to S312. If in S315 the gust rate is greater than or equal to the first gust threshold Pg1, the process proceeds to S316 (C11).

[0138] In S316, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time using the intermediate control table TM (M1). Subsequently, in S317, 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 (C12), and operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time using the second control step (B1).

[0139] Next, in S318, 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.

[0140] Next, in S319, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 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 S319, the process proceeds to S322 (C13). If the output voltage is smaller than the peak voltage in S319, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 (BH) while maintaining the peak load current value corresponding to the peak voltage in the second control table T2 (load peak hold) in S320.

[0141] Next, in S321, 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 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in the high load control table TH. If the peak load current is less than the current value in the high load control table TH in S321, the process returns to S319. If the peak load current is greater than the current value in the high load control table TH in S321, the process proceeds to S322.

[0142] Next, in S322, 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 preset time (H1).

[0143] Next, in S323, 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. Note that if the wind turbine generator 1 is operating according to the high-load control table TH after releasing the short-circuit brake 71 (S314 to S322), if the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage (S319 to S322), if the load current is greater than the current value in the high-load control table TH (S321 to S322), after releasing the electromagnetic brake 72 (S326, S329, S334 to S322), or if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the third gust threshold Pg3 (S335 to S322), the determination in S323 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0144] If the output voltage is less than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S323, proceed to S330. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S323, the control unit 8 determines in S324 whether the output voltage is greater than or equal to the high load threshold Ph. If the output voltage is less than the high load threshold Ph in S324, proceed to S327. 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.

[0145] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high-load threshold Ph in S324, the control unit 8 executes a high-load braking step in S325 to switch to a high-load braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset high-load braking time (H2). After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the high-load braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S326 and returns to S322.

[0146] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0147] If the output voltage is smaller than the high load threshold Ph in S324, the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in S327, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset second gust threshold Pg2. If the gust rate is smaller than the second gust threshold Pg2, the process returns to S323. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the second gust threshold Pg2, the process proceeds to S328 (C2).

[0148] Next, in S328, the control unit 8 executes a gust braking step (H3) to switch to a gust braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset gust braking time. After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the gust braking time, in S329 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 and returns to S322.

[0149] If the output voltage is smaller than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S323, in S330, the control unit 8 switches to the second control mode (HB) to operate the wind turbine unit 30 based on the second control table T2, and operates in the second control step for a preset time (B1).

[0150] Next, in S331, 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 less than 5 m / s. If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S331, the process proceeds to S336.

[0151] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S331, the control unit 8 determines in S332 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.

[0152] If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S332, the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process in S333 to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time (B2), and then releases the electromagnetic brake 72 in S334.

[0153] If the output voltage is smaller than the second threshold P2 in S332, the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in S335, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset third gust threshold Pg3. If the gust rate is smaller than the third gust threshold Pg3, the process returns to S331. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the second gust threshold Pg2, the process returns to S322 (C3).

[0154] If the output voltage is lower than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S331, the control unit 8 switches to an intermediate control mode (BM) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM for a preset time in S336, and operates in the intermediate control step (M1). After the preset time has elapsed, the process returns to S311 (MA).

[0155] Thus, according to the control method for wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode and the second control mode, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold Pg, the control mode is switched to the second control mode and the high load mode, which imposes a heavy load, thereby immediately responding to a sudden gust of wind and preparing for the next gust, thereby enabling appropriate processing and preventing damage to wind turbine section 30. Furthermore, in the case of a relatively weak gust of wind, the control mode is switched from the second control mode to the high load mode at a constant load, thereby suppressing sudden changes in load.

[0156] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching 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 suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0157] Furthermore, in the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released, the device does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates the wind turbine unit 30 once using the high load control table TH or 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 has decreased.

[0158] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0159] Furthermore, by using an intermediate control mode between the first and second control modes, which uses an intermediate control table TM having a load intermediate between the first control table T1 and the second control table T2, it is possible to further suppress sudden changes in the load on the wind turbine section 30 during rotation.

[0160] (Fourth embodiment) FIG. 18 is an example of a control table of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0161] The control unit 8 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 tip 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 tip speed ratio. Because the second control table T2 has a larger second load, it is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds. The control unit 8 of the second embodiment preferably switches from the first control table T1 to the second control table T2 while maintaining a constant load.

[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 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, and is less likely to over-rotate even in strong winds.

[0163] In this way, the wind turbine generator 1 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 to rotate at high speed even in strong winds and prioritizing safety, 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.

[0164] 19 and 20 are examples of control flowcharts for the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment. A control method by the control unit 8 of the wind turbine generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0165] First, in S411, 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.

[0166] Next, in S412, the control unit 8 calculates a gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset first gust threshold Pg1. If in S412 the gust rate is less than the first gust threshold Pg1, the process proceeds to S419. If in S412 the gust rate is equal to or greater than the first gust threshold Pg1, the process proceeds to S413 (C11).

[0167] Next, in S413, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time using the intermediate control table TM (M1). Subsequently, in S414, 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 (C12), and operates the wind turbine unit 30 for a preset time using the second control step (B1).

[0168] Next, in S415, 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.

[0169] Next, in S416, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 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 S416, the process proceeds to S427 (C13). If the output voltage is smaller than the peak voltage in S416, the control unit 8 operates the wind turbine unit 30 (BH) while maintaining the peak load current value corresponding to the peak voltage in the second control table T2 (load peak hold).

[0170] Next, in S418, 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 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in the high load control table TH. If the peak load current is equal to or less than the current value in the high load control table TH in S418, the process returns to S416. If the peak load current is greater than the current value in the high load control table TH in S418, the process proceeds to S427.

[0171] If the gust rate is less than the first gust threshold Pg1 in S412, the control unit 8 determines in S419 whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is greater than or equal to a preset preparation threshold P0. Note that the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment sets the preparation threshold 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.

[0172] If the output voltage is less than the preparation threshold P0 in S419, the process returns to S412. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the preparation threshold P0 in S419, the output voltage is stored in the storage unit 82 as a peak voltage in S420.

[0173] Next, in S421, the control unit 8 determines whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is smaller than the peak voltage stored in the storage unit 82. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S421, the process proceeds to S424.

[0174] If the output voltage is smaller than the peak voltage in S421, in S422 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).

[0175] Next, in S423, the control unit 8 determines whether the peak load current is greater than the load current corresponding to the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in the second control table T2. If the peak load current is equal to or less than the current value in the second control table T2 in S423, the process returns to S421. If the peak load current is greater than the current value in the second control table T2 in S423, the process proceeds to S435.

[0176] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S421, the control unit 8 determines in S424 whether the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 is equal to or greater than a preset first threshold value P1. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 in S424, an initial braking step is executed in S425 to switch to an initial braking mode in which the short-circuit brake 71 as the first braking unit is activated for a preset initial braking time (A2).

[0177] 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, and more preferably a wind speed of 12 m / s or more and less than 15 m / s. Furthermore, the time period for which the short circuit brake 71 is activated in this embodiment is approximately one minute, but any appropriate predetermined time period may be set. After the short circuit brake 71 is activated for the initial braking time in S425, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the short circuit brake 71 in S426, and the process proceeds to S427.

[0178] If the output voltage is not equal to or greater than the first threshold value P1 in S424, the process returns to S412.

[0179] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage in S416, if the peak load current is greater than the current value in the high load control table TH in S418, and after the operation of the short circuit brake 71 is released in S426, 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 in S427, and executes a high load control process in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated for a preset time (H1).

[0180] Next, in S428, 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 that corresponds to a wind speed of less than 10 m / s, more preferably a wind speed of less than 5 m / s.

[0181] In addition, when the output voltage is equal to or greater than the peak voltage (S416 to S427), when the load current is greater than the current value of the high load control table TH (S418 to S427), after the short circuit brake 71 is released (S426 to S427), after the electromagnetic brake 72 is released (S431, S434, S439 to S427), or when the gust rate is equal to or greater than the third gust threshold Pg3 (S440 to S427), and when operating with the high load control table TH, the judgment of S428 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0182] If the output voltage is less than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S428, proceed to S435 (HB). If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the second control return threshold Pr2 in S428, the control unit 8 determines in S429 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.

[0183] If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the high-load threshold Ph in S429, the control unit 8 executes a high-load braking step in S430 to switch to a high-load braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset high-load braking time (H2). After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the high-load braking time, the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 in S431 and returns to S427.

[0184] 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 72 of this embodiment is set to about 1 hour, but a predetermined time may be set as appropriate.

[0185] If the output voltage is smaller than the high load threshold Ph in S429, the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1 in S432, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset second gust threshold Pg2. If the gust rate is smaller than the second gust threshold Pg2 in S432, the process returns to S428. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the second gust threshold Pg2 in S432, the process proceeds to S433 (C2).

[0186] Next, in S433, the control unit 8 executes a gust braking step (H3) to switch to a gust braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 serving as the second braking unit is activated for a preset gust braking time. After the electromagnetic brake 72 has been activated for the gust braking time, in S434 the control unit 8 releases the activation of the electromagnetic brake 72 and returns to S427.

[0187] Also, if in S423 the peak load current is greater than the current value in the second control table T2, in S435 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 operates in the second control step for a preset time (B1).

[0188] Next, in S436, 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 less than 5 m / s.

[0189] Furthermore, when the output voltage is less than the second control return threshold Pr2 (S428 to S435), or when the load current is greater than the current value of the second control table T2 (S423 to S435), if operation is performed using the second control table T2, the judgment of S436 does not need to be made until a preset time has elapsed.

[0190] If the output voltage is less than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S436, proceed to S441. If the output voltage is equal to or greater than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S436, the control unit 8 determines in S437 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.

[0191] If the output voltage is greater than or equal to the second threshold value P2 in S437, in S438 the control unit 8 executes a strong wind braking process (B2) to switch to a strong wind braking mode in which the electromagnetic brake 72 as the second braking unit is activated for a preset strong wind braking time, and then in S439 the electromagnetic brake 72 is released and the process proceeds to S427.

[0192] If the output voltage is smaller than the second threshold P2 in S437, then in S440 the control unit 8 calculates the gust rate from the output voltage as a state value acquired by the rotation state acquisition unit 6 of the wind turbine generator 1, and determines whether the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset third gust threshold Pg3. If the gust rate is smaller than the third gust threshold Pg3 in S440, then the process returns to S436. If the gust rate is equal to or greater than the third gust threshold Pg3 in S440, then the process returns to S427 (C3).

[0193] If the output voltage is smaller than the first control return threshold Pr1 in S436, the control unit 8 switches to an intermediate control mode (BM) in which the wind turbine unit 30 is operated based on the intermediate control table TM for a preset time in S441, and operates in the intermediate control step (M1). After the preset time has elapsed, the process returns to S411 (MA).

[0194] Thus, according to the control method for the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment, in the first control mode and the high-load control mode, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value over a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than the preset gust threshold Pg, the system switches to the second control mode and gust braking mode, which have a higher load. This allows for an immediate response to a sudden gust of wind while also preparing for the next gust, allowing for appropriate handling and preventing damage to the system. Furthermore, in the case of a relatively weak gust of wind, the system switches from the second control mode to the high-load mode at a constant load, thereby suppressing sudden changes in load.

[0195] Furthermore, the wind power generation device 1 of this embodiment activates the braking unit 7 when switching 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 suppressing sudden changes in load during rotation.

[0196] Furthermore, after the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72 is released, the wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment does not immediately return to the first control table T1, but operates once with the high load control table TH or 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 has decreased.

[0197] If the control unit 8 suddenly returns to the first control table T1 after releasing the operation of the electromagnetic brake 72, the load will suddenly become low, and there is a risk that the wind turbine unit 30 will momentarily over-rotate. The wind turbine generator 1 of this embodiment can reduce the risk of the wind turbine unit 30 over-rotating.

[0198] Furthermore, by using an intermediate control mode between the first and second control modes, which uses an intermediate control table TM having a load intermediate between the first control table T1 and the second control table T2, it is possible to further suppress sudden changes in the load on the wind turbine section 30 during rotation.

[0199] (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.

[0200] 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.

[0201] 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.

[0202] 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.

[0203] In the above embodiment, the short-circuit brake 71 is used in the initial braking mode and the electromagnetic brake 72 is used in the strong wind braking mode, but it is also possible to use a short-term short-circuit brake 71 in the initial braking mode and a long-term short-circuit brake 71 in the strong wind braking mode. [Explanation of symbols]

[0204] 1...wind power generation equipment, 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...Rotation state acquisition unit, 61...Voltmeter, 7...Braking unit, 71...Short circuit brake, 72...Electromagnetic brake, 8...Control 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 is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, a second load greater than the first load based on the state value is applied to the wind turbine unit; Switch between In the first control mode, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold value, the control mode is switched to the second 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 gust threshold varies in response to the average condition value; The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

6. The state value is an output voltage, The gust rate is obtained from the output voltage by dividing the instantaneous voltage by the average voltage over a preset period of time. death, The lower the average voltage, the larger the gust threshold value; The higher the average voltage, the smaller the gust threshold value. The wind turbine generator according to claim 1 .

7. 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 .

8. 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 .

9. 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 8.

10. When switching from the second control mode to the high load control mode, the switching is performed while maintaining the load current value. The wind turbine generator according to claim 8.

11. 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 based on the state value to the wind turbine unit when the state value is less than a predetermined first threshold value; a second control step of applying a second load to the wind turbine unit when the state value is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the second load being greater than the first load based on the state value; Switch between In the first control step, a gust rate indicated by "instantaneous state value / average state value for a preset time" is obtained from the state value, and if the gust rate is equal to or greater than a preset gust threshold value, the control is switched to the second control step. A method for controlling a wind power generating device.

12. 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 wind turbine generator according to claim 11.

13. 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 11.

14. 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 13.

15. the gust threshold varies in response to the average condition value; The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 11.

16. The state value is an output voltage, The gust rate is obtained from the output voltage by dividing the instantaneous voltage by the average voltage over a preset period of time. death, The lower the average voltage, the larger the gust threshold value; The higher the average voltage, the smaller the gust threshold value. The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 11.

17. 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 11.

18. 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 11.

19. 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 18.

20. When switching from the second control step to the high load control step, the switching is performed while maintaining the load current value. The method for controlling a wind turbine generator according to claim 18.

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