Generator Set Harmonic Synchronization for Weak Network Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

In weak power distribution networks, such as those on ships or in industrial plants, the malfunction of a single generator set significantly affects the entire network due to power fluctuations, leading to decreased efficiency and unnecessary reactions.

Innovation Solution

The method involves synchronizing the lowest harmonic waves of rotational features of generator sets by measuring and adjusting their crank angle phases to a global reference, using generator-specific control units to calculate and align phase differences, and adjusting actuators to maintain stable power distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If generator sets are connected to a weak power distribution network, then the network can operate with limited infrastructure, but power fluctuations occur and decrease system efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork operation capabilityVSAvoidpower distribution efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system continuously monitors the rotational feature of each engine and uses feedback control to adjust actuator means, maintaining synchronized harmonic waves and stabilizing total power output despite network weaknesses

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts operational parameters of generator sets, specifically synchronizing crank angle phases and harmonic wave frequencies, to optimize power distribution stability in weak networks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If total power of generator sets is controlled to match power consumption, then power production efficiency is improved, but power fluctuations still occur in weak networks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower production efficiencyVSAvoidtotal power stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses vibration analysis by measuring rotational features and analyzing harmonic waves to detect and correct phase misalignments, thereby stabilizing total power output

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

Solution Approach 2:

The control system proactively adjusts crank angle phases and harmonic wave synchronization before significant power fluctuations occur, preventing instability rather than merely reacting to it

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Stability of the object's composition

If crank angle phases are synchronized to reduce power fluctuations, then power distribution stability is improved, but control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution stabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system introduces a global phase coordinate system as an intermediary reference frame to simplify the synchronization of multiple engines, making the control process more manageable despite increased overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2878059B1Method and arrangement to control powers of at least two generator sets
Publication Date: 2016.03.30 WARTSILA FINLAND OY
  • EP2878059B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2878059B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The goal of the invention is to transform the fluctuation of the total power o the generator sets. In the invention the lowest harmonic waves of rotational feature of the engines of the generator sets are adjusted to be in the same phase. The adjustment of the lowest harmonic wave is an adequate action in mos cases, but the next lowest harmonic wave may also be adjusted in addition if needed. The upper harmonic waves can also be adjusted, but it increases the complexity of the adjustment system and has no significant effect in most cases.