Direct current power plant
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for generating and distributing direct current (DC) power face inefficiencies due to the need for conversion from alternating current (AC) power, particularly in centralized power transmission and lack a reliable means to start and control DC power systems like Stirling engines efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular power system is developed, incorporating a backplane with a DC bus, microprocessors, half-bridge circuits, and sensors to control rotating power generators, including Stirling engines, to produce and manage DC power efficiently, using a small power supply supplemented by a capacitor bank for starting, and incorporating a motor drive power board to convert AC to DC power while disabling output during specific conditions and reducing emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If AC to DC conversion is implemented in centralized power transmission, then DC power can be generated and distributed, but conversion losses and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power system into modular units (rectifier modules, inverter modules, control modules) that can independently perform AC-DC conversion and DC distribution. Each module handles a specific function, reducing overall system complexity while enabling efficient power conversion and distribution throughout the facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic voltage regulation, frequency control, and power factor correction that operate autonomously without external intervention. The control system automatically adjusts operating parameters to optimize efficiency and minimize conversion losses, reducing the need for manual operation and maintenance.
2Reliability
If Stirling engines are used for DC power generation, then renewable energy production is enabled, but reliable starting and control mechanisms are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a pre-start control sequence that automatically prepares the Stirling engine for operation by gradually heating the engine, lubricating moving parts, and synchronizing the electrical load before full power generation begins. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable starting while preventing mechanical stress and electrical surges.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors engine temperature, pressure, speed, and electrical output, using this feedback to automatically adjust fuel input, cooling flow, and electrical load to maintain optimal operating conditions. This closed-loop control ensures reliable operation while simplifying the control mechanism through automated parameter adjustment.
3Loss of energy
If DC power distribution is implemented locally, then transmission efficiency is improved, but conversion from AC power supply is required
Solution Approach 1:
The rectifier modules are designed to perform multiple functions: AC-DC conversion, voltage regulation, power factor correction, and harmonic filtering. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices for each function, simplifying the overall conversion system while enabling efficient DC power distribution from standard AC power supplies.
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
The system effectively generates and manages DC power, improving efficiency by enabling precise control of power flow, reducing emissions, and ensuring reliable operation by inhibiting current flow during abnormal conditions, thus enhancing the performance of DC power systems.
Implementation Method 1
a small power supply supplemented by a capacitor bank for starting
Implementation Method 2
a motor drive power board to convert AC to DC power
Data Source
AI summary
A DC power plant generating DC power from a variety of engines including a Stirling cycle engine. The DC power plant includes a relatively small start-up power source that is discontinued after the engine is running. A method for producing DC power for a load including starting up an engine using power supplied by a relatively small power supply supplemented by a capacitor bank, providing output from the engine to a generator, producing alternating current (AC) power by the generator, converting the AC power to direct current (DC) power, disabling output of the DC power during a first set of pre-selected conditions, limiting a rate of change of current of the DC power during a second set of pre-selected conditions, reducing conducted and radiated emissions of the DC power, disconnecting the DC power from the load under a third set of pre-selected conditions, and providing the DC power to the load.