Redundant Overvoltage Test Circuit for Generator Control Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overvoltage protection systems in generator controls require complex and exhaustive processes to verify redundant overvoltage protection, necessitating significant circuitry and multiple point of regulation voltage generations to test trip conditions, which can be inefficient and resource-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A modified redundant overvoltage operational test sequence using a non-inverting amplifier circuit with a programmable resistor and switch, allowing the point of regulation voltage to be maintained at a nominal level, combining gain and scaling functions into a single circuit, thereby reducing circuitry and simplifying the test process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple point of regulation voltage values are generated to verify overvoltage protection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of voltage magnitude by using a voltage follower circuit to maintain nominal voltage levels while varying the test conditions. Instead of generating multiple high voltage values, the system maintains a single nominal voltage level and achieves comprehensive testing by changing other parameters such as trip threshold settings and timing sequences, thereby reducing circuit complexity while preserving measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple point of regulation voltage values are generated to verify overvoltage protection, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces resource consumption by changing from a approach that generates multiple voltage magnitudes to one that maintains nominal voltage and varies test parameters. The voltage follower circuit ensures accurate voltage monitoring at nominal levels while the test sequence varies trip thresholds and timing to achieve comprehensive verification, thereby reducing the need for multiple voltage generation resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage follower circuit creates an accurate copy of the point of regulation voltage signal without requiring multiple actual voltage sources. This copying mechanism allows the system to monitor and test overvoltage protection conditions using a single nominal voltage source, significantly reducing the material and energy resources needed compared to generating multiple actual high voltage values.
3Measurement precision
If complex circuitry is used to generate multiple voltage values, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies operation by changing from a complex voltage generation approach to a voltage follower-based monitoring approach. The system maintains nominal voltage levels and achieves comprehensive testing by programmatically varying test parameters such as trip thresholds and timing sequences, making the test sequence easier to execute and control while preserving measurement precision through accurate voltage following.
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
The modified test sequence efficiently verifies overvoltage protection by maintaining point of regulation voltage at a nominal value, reducing circuit complexity and resource requirements while ensuring accurate trip condition evaluation.
Implementation Method 1
an operational amplifier configured to operate as a voltage follower during a first mode of operations
Implementation Method 2
a point of regulation gain amplifier during a redundant overvoltage operational test
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation system includes a rotating machine having a mechanical rotational output. An electrical generator is connected to the mechanical rotational output, and has an electrical output electrically connected to a power distribution system. A generator control unit is controllably coupled to at least the electrical generator. The generator control unit includes a memory and a processor. The generator control unit is configured to operate in conjunction with an overvoltage protection unit including a redundant overvoltage operational test system. The redundant overvoltage operational test system includes an operational amplifier configured to operate as a voltage follower during a first mode of operations, and as a point of regulation gain amplifier during a redundant overvoltage operational test.