Generator Module Fault Isolation Using DC Link Voltage Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fault detection methods in generator modules, particularly in aircraft electrical systems, are hindered by the size and weight of current transformers required for fault detection, which increase the space and weight requirements of electrical systems.
Innovation Solution
A fault detection method that utilizes voltage measurements from phase leads and a DC link to calculate DC link voltage balance and phase sequence voltages, allowing for fault detection and isolation without the need for current transformers, thereby reducing the size and weight of generator modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current transformers are employed for fault detection in generator modules, then fault detection capability is improved, but weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fault detection function from the traditional current transformer-based approach and implements it through voltage measurements and sequence component calculations. This removes the need for current transformers and their associated weight, while maintaining fault detection capability through mathematical analysis of voltage signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electromagnetic current transformer system with an electrical measurement and computational system. By using voltage measurements combined with sequence component transformation algorithms, the system achieves fault detection without physical current sensing devices, thereby reducing weight.
2Reliability
If current transformers are employed for fault detection in generator modules, then fault detection capability is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fault detection function from the current transformer hardware and relocates it to a computational algorithm based on voltage measurements. This eliminates the need for additional space to accommodate current transformers and their mounting requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the physical current transformer assembly with an electrical measurement and software-based analysis system. The sequence component calculation algorithm processes voltage signals to detect faults, requiring minimal additional space compared to hardware current transformers.
3Reliability
If current transformers are used for internal fault detection, then internal fault detection is enabled, but spacing between power converter and generator is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fault detection measurements directly from the existing voltage sensing points in the power converter, eliminating the need for separate current transformer mounting locations. This allows the power converter to be positioned closer to the generator without compromising fault detection capability.
4Weight of stationary object
If voltage measurements and sequence component calculations are used instead of current transformers, then weight and space are reduced, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes current transformer measurements with voltage measurements processed through sequence component transformation. This mathematical approach extracts fault information from voltage signals, achieving comparable detection precision without the weight of current transformers.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fault detection method includes, at a generator module having a generator (102), a rectifier (118) connected to the generator by phase leads, and an inverter (122) connected to the rectifier by a direct current (DC) link (120), receiving a measurement of voltage applied to the rectifier by the phase leads and receiving a measurement of voltage applied to the inverter by the DC link. DC link voltage balance and sequence voltages are calculated using the measurement of voltage applied to the rectifier by the phase leads and the measurement of voltage applied to the inverter by the DC link. Determination is made using the DC link voltage balance and phase sequence voltages when no fault exists in the generator module. Determination is made that a fault condition exists using the DC link voltage balance and phase sequence voltages when a fault exists in the generator module. Generator modules are also described.