Biogas Plant Optimization via Gradient-Based Parameter Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biogas plants face challenges in achieving energy-efficient operation while maintaining quality parameters, particularly in biogas processing into biomethane and carbon dioxide, due to complex interactions of numerous control parameters and the need for precise methane and CO2 concentration control, which is hindered by inaccurate measurement and regulation methods.
Innovation Solution
A method using a gradient-based optimization approach to adjust control parameters automatically, focusing on rapid-reacting variables to optimize target parameters such as energy consumption and throughput, by iteratively measuring and adjusting control parameters to achieve specified goals, potentially incorporating membrane processes and adaptive control strategies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional control methods are used to maintain quality parameters in biogas processing, then methane concentration control is achieved, but energy consumption is high due to inefficient parameter optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying control parameters (such as vacuum pump settings, membrane module configurations, and operating pressures) to optimize the balance between energy consumption and methane concentration control precision. The method involves measuring the influence of each parameter on target parameters and adjusting them to achieve optimal operating points that reduce energy use while maintaining required quality standards.
2Reliability
If the number of control parameters is increased to improve process control, then quality parameter maintenance is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex control system into modular components, where each membrane module or processing stage can be independently controlled and optimized. This segmentation allows for systematic measurement of parameter influences and enables targeted adjustments without requiring complex interdependencies across the entire system, thereby maintaining reliability while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously measuring target parameters (such as methane concentration and energy consumption) and using this information to automatically adjust control parameters. This closed-loop control ensures quality parameters are maintained while reducing the need for manual intervention and simplifying the overall control strategy through adaptive optimization.
3Productivity
If rapid-reacting control parameters are adjusted frequently to optimize target parameters, then energy efficiency is improved, but measurement and regulation accuracy becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-measuring and characterizing the influence of each control parameter on target parameters during a calibration phase. This preliminary data is stored and used to guide subsequent optimization operations, allowing rapid adjustments to be made based on pre-established relationships rather than requiring real-time complex measurements, thus maintaining accuracy while enabling fast optimization.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method allows for the efficient operation of biogas plants by optimizing energy use and maintaining quality parameters, reducing energy requirements and improving methane concentration, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and flexibility of biogas processing.
Implementation Method 1
a first membrane stage (5) which separates the supplied gas into a permeate and a retentate
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a biogas plant and to such a biogas plant, wherein the plant is optimized step by step with respect to a target parameter by an optimizing step comprising deflecting at least one control parameter and measuring the change in the target parameter that is caused by the deflection. Depending on the measured change in the target parameter, an optimizing step is calculated, comprising determining values for adjustable control parameters in such a way that, by setting the calculated control parameters to these values, the target parameter of the biogas plant is optimized in the direction of a prescribed target. The calculated values of the control parameters are set on the biogas plant. This optimizing step is repeated a number of times. In this way, a biogas plant or part or parts of a biogas plant can be automatically optimized quickly.