Synchronous Generator Exciter Controller for Motor Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Synchronous generators face challenges in efficiently synchronizing with load-driving motors without increasing mass or decreasing efficiency, as they typically require power electronics, pony motors, and induction rotor devices to achieve alignment, which add complexity and losses.
Innovation Solution
A controller is used to synchronize a synchronous generator with load-driving motors by carefully controlling the field current of an exciter and the rotational acceleration or speed of the prime mover shaft, eliminating the need for additional power electronics and induction rotor devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power electronics, pony motors, and induction rotor devices are used to synchronize the generator with motors, then synchronization capability is improved, but system mass increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes power electronics, pony motors, and induction rotor devices from the system, retaining only the essential exciter and controller components needed for synchronization. This extraction eliminates unnecessary mass while preserving the core synchronization function through direct control of field current and prime mover speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The exciter and controller serve multiple functions: they control field current for magnetic alignment, regulate prime mover speed for synchronization, and enable the generator to both synchronize with and power the motor load. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate dedicated synchronization devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power electronics, pony motors, and induction rotor devices are used to synchronize the generator with motors, then synchronization capability is improved, but energy losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
By removing power electronics and induction rotor devices, the patent eliminates the energy losses associated with power conversion, additional magnetic fields, and mechanical friction from these auxiliary components. The system achieves synchronization through direct electromagnetic control, which is inherently more efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator's exciter and controller use the generator's own field system to achieve synchronization, rather than requiring external power sources or conversion devices. The field current control directly creates the necessary magnetic alignment without energy-intensive intermediate steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power electronics and induction rotor devices are added to enable line start capability, then adaptability to fixed speed grids is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes power electronics and complex control systems typically required for line start capability, retaining only the exciter and prime mover speed control. This simplified approach achieves synchronization through direct electromagnetic field control rather than complex power conversion and switching circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical synchronization methods (pony motors, induction rotors) with electromagnetic field control through the exciter. The controller adjusts field current to create the necessary magnetic alignment, substituting mechanical complexity with controlled electromagnetic interaction.
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
This approach enables efficient synchronization of generators with motors without the inefficiencies and added mass associated with traditional methods, maintaining system efficiency and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A controller is used to synchronize a synchronous generator with load-driving motors by carefully controlling the field current of an exciter
Implementation Method 2
controlling... the rotational acceleration or speed of the prime mover shaft
Data Source
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AI summary
A system includes one or more synchronous generators and one or more corresponding exciters. The exciter is configured to output a field current for exciting the synchronous generator to produce a voltage and a current at an output of the synchronous generator. The system may also include one or more electric motors electrically coupled to the synchronous generator and configured to drive one or more mechanical loads. A controller included in the system is configured to identify power angle oscillations between the voltage and the current and control an exciter voltage of the exciter to damp the identified power angle oscillations.