Generator Load Sharing via Transient Zone Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load sharing methods among generators in power systems are not fuel efficient and can produce undesirable swings in output power when responding to transient changes in load, despite efforts to optimize fuel efficiency and manage power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that operate multiple power sources with different capacities by determining specific transient zone parameters to constrain the larger power source's output within the smaller power source's capacity, allowing for controlled adjustments in power output to meet changing demands without large swings, and a power-source controller to manage these parameters for optimal fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If generators operate at equal load sharing, then each generator operates at a consistent portion of its capacity, but fuel efficiency is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the operating parameters of generators based on total power demand. Instead of fixed equal load sharing, the controller adjusts each generator's power output as a percentage of its capacity based on real-time conditions, selecting from multiple operational modes (e.g., 100%/100%, 75%/125%, 50%/150%) to optimize fuel efficiency while meeting power requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The load sharing arrangement transitions from static equal distribution to dynamic allocation. The controller continuously monitors total power demand and automatically redistributes load among generators based on current conditions, allowing the system to adapt optimally to changing power requirements and maintain fuel efficiency across varying operational states
2Loss of energy
If load sharing optimizes fuel efficiency, then overall fuel consumption decreases, but transient load changes cause undesirable swings in output power
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-establishes multiple predetermined load sharing arrangements corresponding to different total power demand ranges. When a transient load change occurs, the system can immediately switch to an appropriate pre-configured arrangement rather than calculating new distribution from scratch, reducing response time and preventing power swings while maintaining fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors actual power demand and generator output, using this feedback to determine when to transition between different load sharing arrangements. This closed-loop control ensures the system responds appropriately to transient changes, maintaining both fuel efficiency and output stability by adjusting generator contributions based on real-time conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a plurality of power sources is provided. The method includes operating a first power source at a first power output and operating a second power source at a second power output. The second power source has a second operational capacity greater than the first operational capacity. First transient zone parameters are determined to operate in a first transient output power range. The first transient zone parameters include a first planned power output and a second planned power output constrained to be less than the first operational capacity.