An automated start-up system for blackout recovery

Abstract

The present disclosure discloses an automated start-up system for blackout recovery encompassing a power producing unit with emergency generators, essential generators, and gas turbine generators. The disclosed system further includes a control unit connected to the power producing unit via a control circuitry featuring circuit breakers and switchboards. The control unit is configured to initiate emergency and essential generators, synchronize their operation, and activate gas turbine generators. This coordinated process enables parallel power generation and a restart of utility and process activities during a blackout. This innovative system ensures a seamless and efficient recovery from power interruptions in industrial settings.

Description

[0001] AN AUTOMATED START-UP SYSTEM FOR BEACKOUT RECOVERY

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates generally to an automated start up system for black out recovery, and in particular, an automated start-up technology to control the start-up recovery of critical equipment to maintain and maximize availability of critical safety service as an immediate recovery method after facility power interruption.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Floater ships, such as offshore drilling platforms, floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels, and other maritime structures, operate, vital for offshore operations in oil and gas exploration, renewable energy production, and maritime logistics, are characterized by their complex power requirements. These structures often house critical equipment and systems, demanding a robust and continuous power supply. These structures operate in challenging and dynamic environments, and are susceptible to adverse weather conditions, rough seas, and various operational challenges, all of which can contribute to power outages. These outages can jeopardize the safety of the crew, compromise operational integrity, and lead to significant financial losses. Harsh environmental conditions, dynamic operational requirements, and the need for self- sufficiency make addressing power outage challenges a crucial aspect of industrialized floater design and operation.

[0006] Power outages in industrialized floaters present multifaceted challenges, each carrying significant implications for safety, operational efficiency, and financial stability. When these floating structures experience interruptions in their power supply, the repercussions are profound and wide- ranging.

[0007] In terms of safety, critical systems designed to safeguard personnel and assets face compromised functionality. Emergency lighting, essential communication networks, and fire suppression systems, integral for ensuring a secure environment, may be rendered ineffective during power outages, elevating the inherent risks associated with offshore operations.

[0008] Operational downtime emerges as a major consequence, affecting the seamless flow of critical processes. Production schedules, data acquisition, and communication networks all stand vulnerable to disruption, leading to substantial financial losses. The intricate web of industrialized floater operations relies heavily on continuous power, and any interruption has cascading effects on productivity and efficiency.

[0009] Furthermore, the potential damage to sensitive equipment and systems amplifies the financial toll of power outages. Abrupt disruptions can result in equipment malfunction or failure, necessitating costly repairs and maintenance. The long-term functionality and reliability of the floater's intricate machinery are put at risk, demanding robust solutions to mitigate such risks.

[0010] Environmental impact is an additional concern, particularly in instances where power outages affect environmental monitoring and control systems. Compliance with ecological regulations becomes challenging, and the risk of ecological incidents rises, posing a threat to both the operational integrity of the floater and the surrounding ecosystem.

[0011] Existing solutions, often reliant on traditional emergency generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, fall short in addressing these challenges comprehensively. Response times, limited capacity, and fuel dependency remain persistent issues, necessitating a novel approach to power outage mitigation tailored specifically for the complex and demanding environment of industrialized floaters.

[0012] In light of above, there exists a need for an improvement in existing systems for power recovery during power outages, in order to overcome aforementioned challenges and drawbacks.

[0013] SUMMARY

[0014] An object of the present disclosure is to an automated start-up system for blackout recovery.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide method for automated start-up for blackout recovery.

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure present an advanced automated start-up system meticulously designed for blackout recovery scenarios, in case of power outages. Said system is comprised of a power producing unit, featuring a combination of one or more emergency generators, one or more essential generators, and one or more gas turbine generators. A pivotal element in this setup is the control unit, intricately linked to the power producing unit through a control circuitry equipped with a diverse array of circuit breakers and switchboards.

[0017] The sequence of actions, directed by the control unit, unfolds with precision to restore power seamlessly during a blackout event. Initially, the control unit triggers the initiation of one or more emergency generators, concurrently energizing a first switchboard associated with this emergency power source. Subsequent to this, the control unit activates the first essential generator from the pool of essential generators, energizing a second switchboard specifically linked to this generator.

[0018] Furthermore, the control unit, upon detecting stable operation of the first essential generator, proceeds to initiate the second essential generator from the available set. Ensuring synchronization between these essential generators is a critical step, harmonizing their operation for effective power generation. To optimize power production, the control unit closes a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard, facilitating the parallel operation of the emergency generators with the synchronized essential generators.

[0019] Leveraging the power produced by the essential generators, the control unit thereafter energizes the control panels of the gas turbine generators. This action activates the gas turbine generators, introducing their contribution to the overall power supply. Finally, in response to the successful activation of the gas turbine generator, the control unit closes the circuit breaker of the main switchboard associated with the gas turbine generator. This crucial step restarts utility and process activities that were previously inactive due to the blackout.

[0020] Advantageously, the meticulously coordinated automated start-up system, facilitated through the interconnected control circuitry and the directives of the control unit, ensures a reliable, efficient, and rapid recovery from blackouts on floaters. The synchronized operation of emergency, essential, and gas turbine generators serves to minimize downtime, maintaining operational continuity even in challenging maritime environments.

[0021] In another aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure also describes a method for automated start-up for blackout recovery. Various steps, procedure, and variants disclosed above apply mutatis mutandis to the method.

[0022] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

[0023] It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0024] A better understanding of the present invention may be obtained through the following examples, which are set forth to illustrate, but are not to be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0025] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[0026] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[0027] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a block diagram related to an automated start-up system for blackout recovery, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration related to the automated start-up system for blackout recovery, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of flow diagram of method steps of the automated start-up system for blackout recovery, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the nonunderlined number is used to identify a general item to which the arrow is pointing.

[0031] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[0033] In an aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an automated start-up system for blackout recovery, comprising: a power producing unit comprising of one or more emergency generator, one or more essential generator, and one or more gas turbine generator; a control unit communicably coupled to the power producing unit via a control circuitry comprising of a plurality of circuit breakers and switchboards, wherein the control unit is configured to: initiate the one or more emergency generator and energize a first switchboard associated therewith; initiate a first essential generator from the one or more essential generator and energize a second switchboard associated therewith; initiate a second essential generator from the one or more second generators in response to detecting stable operation of the first essential generator; synchronize the second essential generator with the first essential generator; close a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard to run the one or more emergency generator in parallel with the synchronized one or more essential generator; energize control panels of the one or more gas turbine generator via the power produced from the one or more essential generator to activate the one or more gas turbine generator; close a circuit-breaker of a main switchboard, associated with the one or more gas turbine, in response to activation of the one or more gas turbine generator to restart utility and process activities inactive due to blackout.

[0034] The present disclosure embraces all applications related to blackout auto-recovery start-up systems. While addressing various applications, this disclosure specifically highlights automation technology's role in controlling the recovery start-up of crucial equipment. The primary focus is on ensuring the uninterrupted availability of critical safety services and restarting essential equipment auxiliaries on a floater immediately following a facility power interruption. The example embodiments presented in this disclosure emphasize these aspects to illustrate the invention's functionality and application in this specific context.

[0035] The present disclosure introduces the aforementioned start-up system, facilitating rapid detection and response for a safe and timely initiation. This approach significantly diminishes the risks associated with asset damage and production loss arising from prolonged power interruptions. Additionally, the disclosed system mitigates spurious or catastrophic failure modes on critical auxiliaries, including the lube oil system, active firefighting system, UPS power, and other essential services. This, in turn, enhances overall equipment availability for the facility.

[0036] Furthermore, the disclosed automated start-up system executes the restarting of critical equipment in a sequential manner, preventing overloading and ensuring a reliable start-up through automation. This systematic approach maximizes available resources for other critical activities, particularly during emergencies where multiple scenarios may occur simultaneously. Notably, it contributes to reducing plant start-up duration by swiftly restoring the normal power supply required for plant initiation.

[0037] In contrast to conventional systems that heavily rely on manual human intervention during power outages, the disclosed system eliminates the need for extensive manual intervention, expediting the recovery process. Moreover, the system incorporates a health monitoring function and maintenance mode, ensuring that relevant out-of-service loads can be automatically rerouted to standby equipment. This comprehensive functionality adds an extra layer of reliability and efficiency to the overall operation of the facility.

[0038] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “power producing unit” refers to a multifaceted and integral component meticulously designed to generate electrical power for a floating structure, particularly tailored for industrialized floaters operating in dynamic maritime environments. This encompassing term incorporates various configurations, each serving a distinct purpose to ensure a resilient and continuous power supply, thereby addressing the challenges associated with power outages in offshore settings.

[0039] The first configuration of the power producing unit is the Emergency Generator. In an embodiment, said emergency generator is configured to activate automatically in response to a power outage. In another embodiment, the emergency generator is configured to activate manually, in response to the power outage. The emergency generator as described herein, plays a pivotal role in providing an immediate and essential power supply to vital systems, safeguarding the floater's operational integrity during critical moments. It is typically fuelled by diesel or another readily available source, the emergency generator is poised to swiftly respond to sudden power disruptions. Optionally, the emergency generator is initiated via a battery unit comprising a plurality of batteries.

[0040] Complementing the emergency generator, the Essential Generator represents another facet of the power producing unit. Unlike its emergency counterpart, the essential generator is strategically configured to support essential systems continuously or during planned maintenance activities. Engineered for efficiency and reliability, this generator contributes to the overall resilience of the electrical power system on the floater, ensuring a stable power source for sustained periods and reducing vulnerability during planned maintenance. Furthermore, the power producing unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure includes one or more gas turbine generator that leverage the combustion of fuel to drive a turbine and generate electrical power. The gas turbine generator enhances the floater's overall power production capacity, offering versatility and efficiency in meeting varying energy demands, thereby contributing to the overall adaptability of the power distribution system.

[0041] Herein, the power producing units are seamlessly integrated into the overall power distribution system of the floater. The integration is provided through an intelligent control unit, which monitors the status of each unit, assesses power demands, and dynamically adjusts the power supply to ensure optimal performance. This integrated approach enhances the redundancy of the system, minimizing the risk of a single point of failure and ensuring continuous power supply even in the event of component malfunctions.

[0042] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “control unit” refers to refers to a sophisticated and integrated system designed to regulate and manage the operation of various components within the disclosed invention. The control unit acts as the central nervous system of the power outage mitigation system, orchestrating the interaction between different elements to ensure a seamless and adaptive response to changing conditions. The control unit encompasses a network of electronic components, processors, and sensors that work collaboratively to monitor, analyze, and control the power distribution system of the floater. These components may include but are not limited to microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces. According to an embodiment, one of the primary functions of the control unit is real-time monitoring. The control unit includes one or more sensors strategically placed throughout the floater, that continuously collect data related to power consumption, equipment status, environmental conditions, and other relevant parameters. This real-time data is then processed by the control unit to gain a comprehensive understanding of the floater's operational state. In some embodiments, the control unit incorporates advanced decision -making algorithms powered by artificial intelligence (Al) or other intelligent control techniques. These algorithms analyze the real-time data, predict potential power outage events, and make informed decisions to optimize the power distribution system. The goal is to proactively manage power resources, prevent disruptions, and ensure a reliable power supply to critical systems.

[0043] Furthermore, a key feature of the control unit is dynamic load management. In the event of a power outage or fluctuations in power supply, the control unit adjusts the distribution of electrical loads in real-time. This includes prioritizing critical systems, redistributing power to essential equipment, and minimizing non-essential power consumption. Such dynamic load management enhances the overall efficiency and resilience of the floater's power distribution system. Moreover, the control unit is seamlessly integrated with the power producing units, such as emergency generators, essential generators, and gas turbine generators. Through continuous communication and monitoring, the control unit optimizes the utilization of these units, ensuring a coordinated response to power disruptions. It also facilitates the smooth transition between different power sources based on the operational requirements and availability of resources. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the control unit enables an adaptive response to varying conditions. Whether facing sudden power demand spikes, equipment failures, or external factors impacting the power supply, the control unit adjusts its strategies in real-time. This adaptability ensures that the power outage mitigation system remains effective and efficient across a range of operational scenarios.

[0044] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “control circuitry” refers to a connecting unit, interlinks with breakers, switches, and diverse components of the electrical system, as described herein the present disclsoure . This intricate network is comprised of electronic elements, sensors, and processors designed to enable real-time monitoring and dynamic control. Its role extends beyond mere connectivity, encompassing functionalities crucial for effective power management, such as dynamic load distribution and adaptive response strategies.

[0045] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “switchboard” refers to a physical panel or enclosure containing an array of switches, breakers, and other control devices. These components are arranged systematically to facilitate the organized control and distribution of electrical power. At its core, the switchboard acts as a hub for managing the flow of electrical power within the floater's electrical system. It includes various switches that allow operators to manually control the opening and closing of circuits. In an embodiment, the components inside the switchboard is automatically regulated via the control unit, described in the present disclosure. The switchboard also incorporates circuit breakers, which function as protective devices, interrupting the electrical flow in the event of overloads or faults, thus preventing damage to the electrical components. In certain embodiments, the switchboard may include a user interface to allow operators to monitor and manually intervene in the power distribution process. The interface provides visual indicators of circuit status, alarms for potential issues, and controls for manual adjustments. This interface enhances the human-machine interaction aspect of the power distribution system. Furthermore, the switchboard is configured to accommodate the connection of various power producing units, including emergency generators, essential generators, and gas turbine generators. Its configuration allows for the seamless integration of these power sources into the floater's electrical system, and it serves as a control point for directing power from the most appropriate source based on operational requirements and conditions.

[0046] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “circuit breaker” refers to an electrical switching device configured to automatically interrupt the flow of electric current in a circuit. In an embodiment, a plurality of circuit breakers may be employed, each with specific characteristics tailored to the unique challenges of maritime environments. The plurality of circuit breakers include, but not limited to, thermal-magnetic circuit breakers, electronic circuit breakers, hydraulic -magnetic circuit breakers, and so forth. The selection of a particular type may depend on factors such as the magnitude of current, response time requirements, and environmental considerations. In an embodiment, circuit breakers are seamlessly integrated into the switchboard, forming a crucial part of the broader power distribution system. The switchboard serves as a centralized control point for the activation and deactivation of circuit breakers, allowing for manual control and coordination with the intelligent control circuitry. In certain embodiments, circuit breakers may be equipped with remote monitoring and control capabilities. This feature allows operators or the control unit to monitor the status of circuit breakers, receive real-time alerts for abnormal conditions, and remotely control their operation. Remote capabilities enhance the system's overall operability and facilitate timely responses to emerging issues.

[0047] Advantageously, the disclosed system combines backup power with an auto-restart function, automating the power recovery process for system startup and the restoration of critical services through a sequenced program until normal power is reinstated. Moreover, the automated start-up system, as disclosed, is constructed as a programmable system seamlessly integrating with the electrical system and associated devices. It facilitates the connection of electrical drives and loads while adeptly managing potential fault scenarios during emergencies. In one embodiment, the control unit described herein executes the sequential program.

[0048] Additionally, the disclosed system is equipped with a display unit that ensures continuous visibility of critical equipment availability to panel operators, even in the midst of a power interruption. This feature enhances operational awareness and aids in decision-making during challenging situations.

[0049] Referring to fig. 1, there is provided a schematic illustration of block diagram of automated startup system (100) for blackout recovery. The system includes a power producing unit (102) comprising of one or more emergency generator, one or more essential generator, and one or more gas turbine generator. Further, the system (100) includes a control unit (106) communicably coupled to the power producing unit (102) via a control circuitry (104) comprising of a plurality of circuit breakers and switchboards. In one embodiment outlined in the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to oversee the initial checks within the described system. Specifically, the control unit ensures that the power generation and electrical distribution system is secure and verifies its readiness for operational activities. As an example, the control unit scrutinizes whether the power generation (such as power producing unit (102)) and electric distribution system is free of gas, confirms the availability of power systems (such as the battery unit), and checks that utility inventories (such as water) have not fallen below a specific minimum threshold. Additionally, the control unit monitors the safety of the described system, encompassing power systems, power generation, and electric distribution systems, ensuring the well-being of personnel and implementing precautions in damaged areas. Notably, in a specific embodiment, these monitoring operations for initial checks are executed both manually and automatically.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the control unit provides guidance to working personnel for conducting the initial checks. Optionally, the disclosed start-up system may incorporate a display unit / arrangement that outlines the initial checks to be performed, those already completed, and those currently in progress. This feature enhances visibility and transparency in the monitoring of crucial initial checks.

[0051] Moreover, the control unit is configured to commence the activation of one or more emergency generators and supply power to an associated first switchboard. Before initiating the emergency generators, the control unit verifies whether the fuel level within them meets a predetermined threshold, a process carried out either manually or automatically, depending on specific embodiments. Additionally, the control unit opens all outgoing breakers linked to the first switchboard, the pivotal connection that interfaces the emergency generators with the electric components powered by the emergency generators. Subsequent to the opening of all outgoing breakers on the first switchboard, the control unit triggers the activation of the emergency generators. In a particular embodiment, this initiation is achieved via a battery unit or an air compression unit.

[0052] Optionally, the control unit energizes the control circuit of the first switchboard using the battery unit or the AC / DC converter provided on the first switchboard. Upon the generation of power by the emergency generators, the first switchboard receives power, subsequently activating at least one emergency generator auxiliaries connected to the first switchboard. These auxiliaries may include, among others, the HVAC system, UPS system, and exhaust fans. In a specific scenario, the activated emergency generator caters to the 400 V systems, primarily focusing on critical items such as the UPS system and other backup systems requiring power.

[0053] In an illustrative case, the emergency generator, through the first switchboard, supplies power to one or more lightning systems, small power switchboards, and activates emergency lighting in the Hull AFT machinery area, facilitating subsequent operations. Furthermore, the emergency generator via the first switchboard powers up the elevator within the Hull AFT machinery area. In certain embodiments, the emergency generator also energizes at least one auxiliary or component associated with one or more essential generators. Optionally, these steps and procedures can be executed manually or automatically through the control unit.

[0054] The control unit is additionally programmed to commence the activation of a first essential generator from a set of essential generators and energize a second switchboard linked to this generator. Prior to initiating the first essential generator, the control unit monitors the fuel level in the essential generators, ensuring it is not below a predetermined level. Once confirmed that the fuel level is adequate, the control unit opens at least one outgoing breaker on the second switchboard (such as, but not limited to 6.6 kV second switchboard), optionally opening all outgoing breakers on the second switchboard . Subsequently, the first essential generator is initiated using an air-compressed unit, energizing the associated second switchboard. In a specific embodiment, the control unit triggers the initiation of a second essential generator from the set of essential generators when the first essential generator is initiated and operating stably. Following this, the first and second essential generators are synchronized through the control unit. Postsynchronization, the control unit closes a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard, facilitating the parallel operation of the emergency generator with the essential generators. Optionally, the first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard is closed via an automatic transfer switch function. It will be appreciated that the advantage of having a second essential generator alongside the first essential generator is the attainment of a 2 x 100% capacity for the loads (in an example, at 6.6 kV). This dual configuration enhances robustness by providing a backup in case one generator experiences a failure. Furthermore, in conjunction with the automated startup process, once both units are operational, and while the main gas turbine is still in startup mode, the essential generators can effectively address any unforeseen requirements for plant operations.

[0055] In certain scenarios, the incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard is opened through a trip selector switch using the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) function of the switchgear, leading to the stoppage of the associated emergency generator. The control unit is also configured to energize the control panels of one or more gas turbine generators using the power produced by one or more essential generators, activating the gas turbine generator. Optionally, the control unit energizes the control panels of one or more gas turbine generators using the power from both the essential generator and the emergency generator. Furthermore, the control unit closes a circuit breaker on a main switchboard, associated with one or more gas turbine generators, upon the activation of the gas turbine generators, restarting utility and process activities that were inactive due to the blackout. Optionally, the main circuit breaker is selected from the circuit breakers comprising the 13.8 kV main switchboard.

[0056] The control unit also synchronizes the essential generators and gas turbine generators. After synchronization, the control unit closes the transformer incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard, running the gas turbine generator in parallel with the essential generator. In certain embodiments, the incomer circuit breaker to the first / second switchboard is opened via a trip selector switch using the ATS function of the switchgear, leading to the stoppage of the associated essential generator. In an instance, the utility and process activities that stopped operating due to the blackout are initiated upon activating the gas turbine generator. This includes activities such as marine systems, start-up utilities for fuel gas, start-up utilities of the gas turbine generator, and more.

[0057] Optionally, the control unit is further configured to close a second incomer circuit breaker to the second switchboard to run the one or more essential generator in parallel with the one or more gas turbine generator.

[0058] In specific embodiments, the gas turbine generator operates in parallel with the essential generator throughout the blackout in case of power interruptions. Alternatively, the gas turbine generator operates in parallel with both the essential generator and emergency generator throughout the blackout in case of power interruptions. In yet another embodiment, the gas turbine generator operates independently to activate and operate utility and process activities.

[0059] In specific configurations, the essential generators, as outlined in certain embodiments, necessitate the presence of a diesel oil system, a lubrication system, and a compressed air system for their initiation. Notably, in a given scenario, due to the versatility of both the diesel oil and lubrication oil systems, which can be operated using either electrical or pneumatic drives, the essential generators can be commenced either with or without relying on emergency power.

[0060] As detailed in the present disclosure, the one or more essential generators are activated through the utilization of compressed air obtained from the Starting Air receivers. Specifically, the starting air receivers, integral to the invention, are normally maintained in a charged state through the continuous operation of Starting Air Compressors, a unique configuration that contributes to the novelty and efficacy of the patented blackout recovery system.

[0061] It is important to emphasize that, in situations where emergency power is not available, the disclosed system incorporates the use of the emergency start compressor, notable for being engine- driven. This novel feature enhances the system's adaptability, ensuring that the Essential generators can be initiated reliably even under conditions where conventional power sources are compromised, thereby reinforcing the present disclosure’s inventive and resilient nature.

[0062] In yet another embodiment, the present automated start-up system discloses that the one or more essential generator and the one or more emergency generator are started at the same time. Thereafter, a number of utilities and process activities are activated such as, but not limited to, HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system, UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) system, DCS (Distributed control system), and so forth.

[0063] In a specific embodiment outlined in the present disclosure, the automated start-up system for blackout recovery is enhanced with the inclusion of one or more sensors. These sensors are strategically connected to the control unit, establishing a communicative link that allows for the detection of a variety of readings associated with different components within the power producing unit. The primary function of these sensors is to monitor and capture crucial data related to the status and performance of various elements within the power producing unit.

[0064] The control unit, acting as the central intelligence, receives and processes the plurality of readings obtained from the sensors. These readings encompass diverse parameters associated with both the power producing unit and the utility functions linked to the blackout recovery system. The control unit, equipped with sophisticated algorithms and decision-making capabilities, utilizes the captured readings in a feedback loop.

[0065] In practical terms, this feedback loop involves a continuous exchange of information between the control unit and the sensors. The control unit analyzes the real-time data provided by the sensors, making informed decisions based on the current state of the power producing unit and associated utility functions. This iterative process ensures that the automated start-up system remains adaptive and responsive to dynamic conditions, allowing for efficient blackout recovery.

[0066] The utilization of sensors and the feedback loop mechanism represent a proactive approach to system management. By continuously monitoring and analyzing various readings, the control unit can identify potential issues, optimize performance, and make timely adjustments to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of the blackout recovery system. This embodiment underscores the system's capability to leverage real-time data for intelligent decision-making, contributing to the overall resilience and effectiveness of the blackout recovery process.

[0067] Referring to fig. 2, there is provided a schematic illustration of the automated start-up system (200) in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The automated start-up system (200) for blackout recovery presents a sophisticated solution designed for industrial settings. The system comprises a power producing unit with emergency generators (EMDG), essential generators (ESDG), and gas turbine generators (GTG). In case of power interruptions, the control unit is intelligently configured to initiate the emergency and essential generators, synchronize their operation, and activate the gas turbine generators. Specifically, the automated start-up system involves energizing the first switchboard upon initiation of the emergency generator, and energizing the second switchboard upon initiating the essential generator, in a coordinated way in accordance with the embodiments described above. This coordinated effort creates a synchronized and parallel power generation setup, effectively restoring power during a blackout. The system includes the closing of main circuit breakers associated with main switchboards to reactivate utility and process activities that were halted during the blackout. Furthermore, the present disclosure emphasizes the control unit's versatility in energizing gas turbine generator control panels using power from both essential generators and emergency generators. This capability enhances the flexibility and reliability of the blackout recovery system. Additionally, the system features sensing components, with sensors connected to the control unit. These sensors detect readings related to power producing unit components. The captured readings, encompassing data from both the power producing unit and utility functions, are then utilized in a feedback loop. This feedback mechanism enhances the system's adaptability and responsiveness, allowing it to make informed decisions based on real-time data, making the blackout recovery process more efficient and reliable.

[0068] The present disclosure also relates to the method as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above apply mutatis mutandis to the method.

[0069] Referring to fig. 3, there is described a schematic flow diagram of the method steps (300) for automated start-up system for blackout recovery. The method steps (300) includes the step (302) which include initiating the one or more emergency generator and energizing a first switchboard associated therewith. Further, the method includes initiating a first essential generator from the one or more essential generator and energizing a second switchboard associated therewith, recited in method step (304). Furthermore, in steps (306) and (308), the method includes initiating a first essential generator from the one or more essential generator and energizing a second switchboard associated therewith, and synchronizing the second essential generator with the first essential generator, respectively. Additionally, the step (310) includes closing a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard, to run the one or more emergency generator in parallel with the synchronized one or more essential generator. Moreover, the method also includes step (312) including energizing control panels of one or more gas turbine generator via the power produced from the one or more essential generator to activate the one or more gas turbine generator. Also, the method (300) also comprises step (314) which includes closing a circuit-breaker of a main switchboard, associated with the one or more gas turbine generator, in response to activation of the one or more gas turbine generator to restart utility and process activities inactive due to blackout.

[0070] The steps (302) to (314) of method (300), are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

[0071] In an embodiment, the one or more emergency generator is initiated via a battery unit or an air compression unit.

[0072] In another embodiment, the method comprises closing the first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard via an automatic transfer switch function.

[0073] In another embodiment, the method further comprises closing a second incomer circuit breaker to the second switchboard to run the one or more essential generator in parallel with the one or more gas turbine generator. In another embodiment, the method comprises detecting a plurality of readings associated with components of the power producing unit, via one or more sensors.

[0074] In another embodiment, the method further comprises capturing the plurality of readings associated with the power producing unit and the utility functions, and feeding the captured plurality of readings in a feedback loop.

[0075] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An automated start-up system for blackout recovery, comprising: a power producing unit comprising of one or more emergency generator, one or more essential generator, and one or more gas turbine generator; a control unit communicably coupled to the power producing unit via a control circuitry comprising of a plurality of circuit breakers and switchboards, wherein the control unit is configured to: initiate the one or more emergency generator and energize a first switchboard associated therewith; initiate a first essential generator from the one or more essential generator and energize a second switchboard associated therewith; initiate a second essential generator from the one or more second generators in response to detecting stable operation of the first essential generator; synchronize the second essential generator with the first essential generator; close a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard to run the one or more emergency generator in parallel with the synchronized one or more essential generator; energize control panels of the one or more gas turbine generator via the power produced from the one or more essential generator to activate the one or more gas turbine generator; close a circuit-breaker of a main switchboard, associated with the one or more gas turbine generator, in response to activation of the one or more gas turbine generator to restart utility and process activities inactive due to blackout.

2. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit energizes the control panels of the one or more gas turbine generator via the power produced from the one or more essential generator as well as the emergency generator, to activate the one or more gas turbine generator.

3. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more emergency generator is initiated via a battery unit or an air compression unit.

4. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard is closed via an automatic transfer switch function.

5. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit is furtherconfigured to close a second incomer circuit breaker to the second switchboard to run the one or more essential generator in parallel with the one or more gas turbine generator.

6. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors communicably coupled to the control unit, to detect a plurality of readings associated with components of the power producing unit.

7. The automated start-up system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit captures the plurality of readings associated with the power producing unit and the utility functions, and feeds the captured plurality of readings in a feedback loop.

8. A method for automated start-up for blackout recovery, comprising: initiating the one or more emergency generator and energizing a first switchboard associated therewith; initiating a first essential generator from the one or more essential generator and energizing a second switchboard associated therewith; initiating a second essential generator from the one or more second generators in response to detecting stable operation of the first essential generator; synchronizing the second essential generator with the first essential generator; closing a first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard, to run the one or more emergency generator in parallel with the synchronized one or more essential generator; energizing control panels of one or more gas turbine generator via the power produced from the one or more essential generator to activate the one or more gas turbine generator; closing a circuit-breaker of a main switchboard, associated with the one or more gas turbine generator, in response to activation of the one or more gas turbine generator to restart utility and process activities inactive due to blackout.

9. The method for automated start-up as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more emergency generator is initiated via a battery unit or an air compression unit.

10. The method for automated start-up as claimed in claim 8, wherein the method comprises closing the first incomer circuit breaker to the first switchboard via an automatic transfer switch function.

11. The method for automated start-up as claimed in claim 8, wherein the method further comprises closing a second incomer circuit breaker to the second switchboard to run the one or more essential generator in parallel with the one or more gas turbine generator.

12. The method for automated start-up as claimed in claim 8, further comprising detecting a plurality of readings associated with components of the power producing unit, via one or more sensors.

13. The method for automated start-up as claimed in claim 8, wherein the method further comprises capturing the plurality of readings associated with the power producing unit and the utility functions, and feeding the captured plurality of readings in a feedback loop.

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