Generator Converter Harmonic Torque Control for Ripple Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for harmonic control in wind turbine generators, such as those using permanent magnet synchronous machines, are inadequate in reducing undesired harmonics and torque ripple, relying on complex models that are difficult to measure and estimate, leading to unsatisfactory harmonic reduction.

Innovation Solution

A method for generating a converter control signal that derives harmonic torque and flux references based on feedback signals and demands, which are then used to calculate torque and flux errors, ultimately determining the switching state of the generator side converter portion to reduce harmonics and improve control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional methods apply simplifications and neglect parameters for implementation, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision (harmonic reduction) deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol implementation complexityVSAvoidharmonic reduction precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the control parameters from conventional current-based control to torque and flux references derived from voltage and torque feedback signals. This parameter transformation enables direct harmonic control without requiring complex machine models, resolving the contradiction between control simplicity and harmonic reduction precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention implements feedback mechanisms using torque feedback signals from accelerometers or strain gauges and voltage feedback signals from stator voltage measurements. These feedback loops continuously adjust harmonic torque and flux references to maintain precise harmonic control while keeping the control structure relatively simple

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If high-fidelity models with many parameters are used for torque estimation, then measurement precision (torque estimation accuracy) is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque estimation accuracyVSAvoidmodel parameter quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces torque feedback signals from external sensors (accelerometers, strain gauges, microphones) as intermediaries to obtain accurate torque information without requiring complex internal machine models. These external sensors directly measure torque or vibration related to torque ripple, providing accurate measurement without increasing control system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex electromagnetic modeling and torque estimation algorithms with direct mechanical measurement using accelerometers or strain gauges mounted on the generator bearing. This substitution provides accurate torque information while significantly simplifying the control system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If conventional FOC based on Id and Iq currents is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but manufacturing precision (harmonic reduction) deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol operation simplicityVSAvoidharmonic reduction precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the control into distinct harmonic torque control and harmonic flux control components, each handled by separate controllers. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each control function while maintaining overall system simplicity, achieving both ease of operation and precise harmonic reduction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from conventional two-dimensional current control (Id-Iq plane) to a multi-dimensional control approach that includes torque references, flux references, and their respective feedback signals. This dimensional expansion enables precise harmonic control while maintaining operational simplicity through modular controller architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11863114B2Harmonic direct torque control of an electric machine
Publication Date: 2024.01.02 SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY AS
  • US11863114B2 patent drawing
  • US11863114B2 patent drawing
  • US11863114B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a method of generating a converter control signal for a generator side converter portion, in particular of a wind turbine, being coupled to a generator, in particular a permanent magnet synchronous machine, the method including: deriving at least one harmonic torque reference, in particular based on a harmonic torque demand and/or a torque indicating feedback signal; deriving at least one harmonic flux reference, in particular based on a harmonic stator voltage demand and/or a stator voltage indicating feedback signal; adding all of the at least one harmonic torque reference to a fundamental torque reference and subtracting an estimated generator torque to derive a torque error; adding all of the at least one harmonic flux reference to a fundamental flux reference and subtracting an estimated generator flux to derive a flux error; and deriving the converter control signal based on the torque error and the flux error.