Auxiliary Generator Synchronization via Integrated Power Meter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for synchronizing auxiliary generators with electrical power grids require expensive dedicated measuring and control equipment, and are prone to communication failures, making them costly and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that measures the frequency and phase angle of an auxiliary AC generator and matches it to the grid's frequency and phase, using an intelligent electronic device to automatically or manually close interconnecting contactors once synchronization is achieved within a defined tolerance, eliminating the need for dedicated synchronization equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated measuring and control equipment is used for generator synchronization, then measurement precision and control reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power meter is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures power consumption, frequency, and phase angle of the generator, and also controls the synchronization process by signaling when to close the circuit breaker. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated synchronization equipment while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the measuring function and control function into a single integrated power meter system. The same device that measures electrical parameters also determines synchronization readiness and controls the circuit breaker operation, merging previously separate functions into one unified system.
2Reliability
If dedicated communication systems are used for control signals, then control reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power meter system is self-sufficient in performing both measurement and control functions without requiring external dedicated communication infrastructure. The system uses its own internal processing and signaling capabilities to determine synchronization status and control the circuit breaker, eliminating dependency on separate communication systems.
3Measurement precision
If multiple separate functions are performed by dedicated equipment, then measurement and control precision are improved, but ease of operation and maintenance worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the measuring function and control function into a single integrated power meter system. The same device that measures electrical parameters also determines synchronization readiness and controls the circuit breaker operation, merging previously separate functions into one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The power meter system automatically determines when synchronization conditions are met and autonomously signals for circuit breaker closure, eliminating the need for manual coordination between separate measuring and control systems and simplifying operation.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided herein methods and apparatus for apparatus for controlling the interconnection of an auxiliary AC generator with an electrical system, such as an electrical distribution system, e.g., a utility grid. A measuring circuit measures the frequency of an auxiliary AC generator and the phase angle between one voltage phase of the generator and the correspondent voltage phase of the electric utility's electricity supply lines, i.e., the grid, each of which are averaged and filtered. The measured frequency of the auxiliary AC generator is matched to the frequency of the electrical system and the measured phase angle of the generator is matched to the electric utility's electricity supply lines. Once matching is achieved to within a defined tolerance, interconnecting contactors are closed.