Interconnected Generator Control for Emissions and Fuel Minimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing electrical distribution networks with multiple generators do not effectively minimize gaseous emissions and fuel consumption, particularly when using combustion engines, despite balancing power distribution to simplify maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A control method that adjusts the contribution of each generator individually to optimize network operation by minimizing a physical parameter representative of its operation, such as emissions or fuel consumption, while accounting for real-time variations and source efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power is distributed equally among generators, then control is simplified and wear is uniform, but gaseous emissions and fuel consumption are not minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different operational roles to different generators based on their individual characteristics. Instead of equal power distribution, each generator operates at its optimal point for minimizing emissions, with some generators dedicated to base load and others to peak load or renewable integration, thereby reducing overall gaseous emissions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control
2Ease of operation
If power is distributed equally among generators, then control is simplified and maintenance is easier, but fuel consumption is not minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of each generator dynamically based on real-time conditions, including fuel consumption characteristics, emissions rates, and power demand. The control system continuously adjusts generator output to operate at optimal efficiency points, thereby minimizing fuel consumption while maintaining simplified control through automated parameter optimization
3Speed
If generators operate at power well below maximum but much greater than minimum, then electrical power requirements can be rapidly addressed, but emissions are not minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control where generator operational parameters are continuously adjusted based on real-time power demand and emissions considerations. The system maintains the ability to rapidly respond to power requirements by dynamically switching between generators and adjusting their output levels, while simultaneously optimizing emissions by keeping generators operating at their optimal efficiency points rather than at fixed sub-maximal levels
Data Source
AI summary
A method is proposed for controlling a set of electrical sources that are interconnected so as to supply an electrical network. The method includes: (i) determining, in real-time, a total electrical power requirement to be supplied to the network, (ii) determining, for each electrical source, a value of a physical parameter representative of the operation of the electrical source as a function of the electrical power supplied by the electrical source, (iii) determining, for the set of the electrical sources, the sum of the values of the physical parameter representative of the operation of each electrical source, so as to form a total value of the physical parameter representative of the operation of the network, (iv) controlling the electrical power supplied by each electrical source such that the total electrical power produced is equal to the total electrical power requirement to be supplied to the network and so as to minimise the total value of the physical parameter.