Generator Synchronization via Parallel Power Source Phase Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for synchronizing generators in alternating current electric power systems often result in poor phase matching, leading to high transient torque and voltage issues that can damage generator windings and insulation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a first generator is mechanically coupled to an engine, and a power source is connected in parallel to both generators across the same respective phase of their stators, aligning their rotors to achieve in-phase synchronization, followed by mechanical coupling of the second generator to the engine, ensuring both frequency and phase alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional synchronization methods are used to connect generators to the power grid, then the generators can be connected to the grid, but poor phase matching occurs leading to high transient torque and voltage that can damage generator windings and insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by synchronizing the second generator with the first generator before connecting it to the power grid. The synchronization process includes matching frequency, voltage, and phase angle of the second generator with the first generator that is already connected to the grid. This preliminary synchronization ensures that when the second generator is connected, there is no sudden transient torque or voltage spike that could damage the windings or insulation, thus preventing harmful effects before they occur.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two generators are mechanically interconnected through the same gear box, then mechanical phase matching is required, but the synchronization process becomes more complex and difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the first generator as an intermediary between the power grid and the second generator. Instead of directly synchronizing the second generator with the grid (which would require complex monitoring and control systems), the second generator is synchronized with the first generator which is already connected to the grid. This intermediary approach simplifies the synchronization process because the first generator provides a stable reference that is already frequency and phase-matched to the grid, reducing the complexity of the synchronization system.
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 effectively prevents damage from high transient torque and voltages by ensuring precise phase alignment, enhancing the reliability and safety of generator synchronization in power systems.
Implementation Method 1
Power from the power source is applied to the first generator and the second generator to align a respective rotor to the respective phase in each generator
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
There are described methods and systems for synchronizing at least two generators (22, 24) for an engine (10). A first generator (22) is mechanically coupled to the engine (10). A power source (26) is connected in parallel to the first generator (22) and to a second generator (24), the second generator (24) mechanically uncoupled from the engine (10), the power source (26) connected across a same respective phase (28A, 32A) of a stator in the first generator (22) and the second generator (24). Power from the power source (26) is applied to the first generator (22) and the second generator (24) to align a respective rotor (30, 34) to the respective phase (28A, 32A) in each generator (22, 24) and cause the first generator (22) and the second generator (24) to be in-phase. The second generator (24) is then mechanically coupled to the engine (10).