Multi-Generator Power Control Outside Excluded Operating Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical systems with multiple power generators face inefficiencies and prolonged ramp-up times when some generators are curtailed and later brought back online, leading to inefficient operation and delayed responsiveness to power demand changes.
Innovation Solution
A system-level controller generates power production commands for individual generators based on excluded zones of operation to maintain power output outside these zones, ensuring efficient and responsive power delivery to the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power generating assets are curtailed to reduce power output when demand is less than possible production, then power delivery matches grid demand, but system efficiency decreases and ramp-up time increases when curtailment is released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating control strategies for individual power generating assets based on their specific operational characteristics. The system-level controller identifies and excludes specific operating zones for each asset, allowing tailored control that maintains efficiency while adapting to grid demand variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining excluded operating zones for power generating assets before curtailment events occur. This proactive approach ensures that when curtailment is needed, the system can quickly transition assets to acceptable operating ranges without prolonged inefficiency or extended ramp-up times.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power generating assets operate at reduced levels during curtailment, then power output matches grid demand, but responsiveness to demand changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by continuously monitoring grid demand and dynamically adjusting power production commands for individual assets. The excluded zone methodology enables rapid transitions between operating states, allowing the system to respond quickly to demand changes while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the system-level controller receives real-time information about grid demand and asset performance, then adjusts power production commands accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures rapid responsiveness to demand changes while preventing operation in inefficient zones.
3Productivity
If offline power generating assets ramp up after curtailment, then full capacity is restored, but time delay increases compared to online curtailed assets
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by maintaining power generating assets in an online state within excluded zones rather than allowing complete shutdown. This approach preserves asset readiness and minimizes ramp-up time when full capacity is needed, as assets can quickly transition from curtailed to full production without cold-start delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by keeping power generating assets operational at reduced levels within excluded zones rather than shutting them down completely. This continuous operation maintains system readiness and enables faster response to demand increases, eliminating the time loss associated with bringing offline assets online.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems connected to an electrical grid for delivering electrical power thereto and methods of controlling such systems are provided. The electrical system includes a plurality of power generators. A system-level controller receives a demand signal from the electrical grid. The system-level controller generates first and second power production commands for respective first and second power generators. The first power production command is based on an excluded zone of operation for the first power generator. The first and second power production commands are transmitted to the plurality of power generators so as to control a power output of the first power generator according to the first power production command and to control a power output of the second power generator according to the second power production command. The power output of the first power generator is outside of the excluded zone of operation for the first power generator.