Generator Synchronization Using GPS Timing for Remote Microgrids

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge lies in synchronizing a microgrid or an electrical generator with a reference power source, particularly when communication latency is high due to large distances, which complicates the resynchronization process before reconnecting the microgrid to the main grid.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a first and second measurement unit, along with a controller, that measures and adjusts the operational characteristics of the electrical generator to align with the reference power source. This involves measuring magnitude, frequency, and phase, and using timing data from a common reference, such as a satellite system, to adjust the generator's output accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the microgrid operates autonomously in islanded mode, then the microgrid can generate power independently to service local loads, but the generated power drifts away from the main grid's power in terms of voltage amplitude and frequency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautonomous operation capabilityVSAvoidpower synchronization

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary synchronization measurements and adjustments before the microgrid reconnects to the main grid. The measurement units capture timing data and power characteristics in advance, allowing the controller to pre-adjust the inverter's output to match grid requirements, thereby resolving the synchronization drift issue before reconnection occurs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from timing data and power measurements to continuously monitor and adjust the microgrid's power output. The controller receives information about voltage amplitude and frequency differences, then modifies the inverter operation to eliminate these discrepancies and maintain synchronization with the main grid.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If the microgrid is separated from the main grid by large distances, then the microgrid can be located in remote areas, but communication between them is subject to high latencies

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote location capabilityVSAvoidcommunication latency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses timing data from a common time reference (such as GPS satellite signals) as an intermediary to synchronize measurements between the remote microgrid and the main grid. This mediator allows both sides to operate with consistent time stamps despite communication delays, enabling accurate power synchronization without being affected by high latency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces real-time continuous communication with a mechanical-like approach using standardized time stamps and periodic measurements. Instead of relying on fast continuous data exchange, the system uses discrete, time-stamped power measurements that can be processed and compared even with significant communication delays.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If the microgrid reconnects to the main grid without proper synchronization, then reconnection can occur quickly, but dangerous overcurrents and overvoltages may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereconnection speedVSAvoidovercurrents and overvoltages

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary synchronization checks and adjustments before allowing reconnection. The measurement units and controller work in advance to match the microgrid's power characteristics with the main grid, ensuring that when reconnection occurs, no dangerous overcurrents or overvoltages are generated.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system takes preliminary anti-action by detecting and correcting synchronization mismatches before reconnection. The controller anticipates potential overcurrents and overvoltages by adjusting the inverter output in advance, thereby preventing these harmful effects from occurring during the reconnection process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS12301010B2Electrical generator synchronization system and method

Publication Date: 2025.05.13 NEWSOUTH INNOVATIONS PTY LTD

AI summary

A system for synchronizing an electrical generator to a reference power source, the system comprising: a first measurement unit configured to: measure a magnitude and a frequency of a first electrical power at a terminal of the reference power source; record first timing data indicative of the occurrence of predetermined variations of the first electrical power at the terminal of the reference power source; and transmit the first timing data and first measurement data comprising the measured magnitude and the measured frequency of the first electrical power; a second measurement unit configured to: receive the first measurement data; measure a magnitude and a frequency of a second electrical power at a terminal of the electrical generator; and record second timing data indicative of a present time; and a controller configured to adjust operational characteristics of the electrical generator based on the first timing data, the second timing data, the first measurement data, and second measurement data comprising the measured magnitude and the measured frequency of the second electrical power.