Converter Control System for Wind Turbine Harmonic Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine power conversion systems face challenges in managing harmonics and ensuring efficient power delivery to the grid, particularly when varying the number of converter modules connected, which often results in production losses due to necessary power stops and overcurrent alarms.
Innovation Solution
A control system that dynamically adjusts the number of enabled converter modules and their switching phase differences using synchronized PWM, allowing gradual reconfiguration without current peaks, ensuring continuous power delivery and minimal harmonics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If converter modules are enabled or disabled to optimize power delivery, then power efficiency is improved, but current peaks occur causing overcurrent alarms and production losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of converter module switching by continuously monitoring power demand and adjusting the number of active modules in real-time. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power efficiency while preventing overcurrent conditions through gradual transitions and coordinated switching of multiple modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs preliminary assessment of power requirements and proactively configures the appropriate number of converter modules before power demand changes occur. This predictive approach ensures smooth transitions without sudden current peaks by preparing the system state in advance.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If converter modules are reconfigured to reduce harmonics, then grid quality is improved, but power delivery must be stopped causing production losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous power delivery during converter module reconfiguration by coordinating the switching of multiple modules. Instead of stopping power delivery to reconfigure, the system transitions modules in a sequence that maintains uninterrupted power flow to the grid while adjusting the harmonic characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary that manages the transition between different converter module configurations. It coordinates the switching actions and timing to ensure smooth reconfiguration without disrupting power delivery, effectively mediating between the need for harmonic reduction and continuous production.
3Power
If maximum power is delivered to the grid, then power output is improved, but converter components must be oversized increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power conversion system into multiple modular converter units that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows the system to deliver maximum power by activating all modules when needed, while maintaining simplicity by using only the necessary number of modules for each operating condition, avoiding the need for permanently oversized components.
Solution Approach 2:
Each converter module is designed as a universal unit capable of operating independently or in combination with others. This multi-functionality allows the same modular components to handle varying power demands without requiring specialized oversized equipment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining maximum power capability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Converter control system coupled between a wind turbine generator and the electric power distribution grid, comprising at least two converter modules connected in parallel which are enabled/disabled by out-of-phase pulse-width modulation (PWM) patterns. The control device guarantees dynamic switching of the converter modules irrespective of the enabling or disabling of at least one converter module, constantly delivering electric power to the distribution grid.