Generator Management System Dynamic Activation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing generator management systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting the order of starting and stopping multiple generators to meet changing power demands without the need for expensive external controls, leading to unequal wear and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A generator management system that uses a communication bus to connect generator controllers, allowing them to selectively activate and deactivate generators based on operating parameters such as run hours, emissions, cost, and pre-fault conditions, enabling dynamic adjustment of generator usage without expensive external controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple generators are used to meet high power demand, then power supply reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple generator controllers into a unified control system where each controller communicates with others through a communication bus. This merging approach allows coordinated operation of multiple generators while maintaining individual controller independence, thus improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each generator controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a standalone controller for its own generator and as part of a coordinated network. The controllers can independently manage their respective generators while also participating in system-wide load balancing and failover scenarios, reducing the need for additional dedicated control devices.
2Loss of energy
If generators are stopped to save fuel and reduce emissions, then fuel consumption decreases, but productivity may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts generator operation based on real-time power demand. When demand decreases, generators are selectively stopped to conserve fuel and reduce emissions. When demand increases, generators are restarted or additional generators are activated. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize fuel consumption without permanently compromising productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication bus enables continuous feedback between controllers about system load conditions. Controllers receive information about overall power demand and adjust generator operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that generators are stopped only when sufficient capacity remains in the system, maintaining productivity while reducing fuel consumption during low-demand periods.
3Ease of operation
If expensive external controls are used to manage generator activation, then ease of operation is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator controllers are designed to autonomously manage activation and deactivation decisions based on information exchanged through the communication bus. Each controller independently evaluates system conditions and makes operational decisions without requiring external control intervention. This self-service capability provides sophisticated generator management while eliminating the need for expensive external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication bus serves as an intermediary that enables coordinated control among generators without requiring a centralized expensive control system. Controllers exchange information about load conditions, operational status, and demand predictions through this low-cost communication medium, achieving sophisticated generator management capabilities at minimal cost.
4Productivity
If generators operate continuously to meet demand, then productivity is maintained, but wear and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines which generators should operate at any given time based on real-time demand assessment. Instead of continuous operation of all generators, the system activates only the necessary number of generators to meet current demand. This dynamic operation reduces cumulative wear on individual generators and decreases total emissions while maintaining continuous power supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors and responds to changes in power demand parameters, adjusting generator operation accordingly. When demand parameters indicate sufficient capacity from remaining generators, the system changes the operational state of certain generators from active to standby, thereby reducing wear and emissions while maintaining the ability to meet productivity requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of determining an operation of at least one of a plurality of generators in a power generation system. The method includes identifying a system parameter that is related to operation of the power generation system; and determining which of the plurality of generators to operate to minimize fuel consumption of the power generation system based on the system parameter. Other methods include identifying a system parameter that is related to operation of the power generation system; and determining which of the plurality of generators to operate by optimizing an operating variable of the power generation system based on the system parameter.