Half-Winding Generator Inverter for Microgrid Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid power generation systems face challenges in achieving desirable operation by efficiently integrating renewable energy sources and energy storage devices with generator sets in autonomous AC micro-grids, particularly in managing power demand and reactive power supply.
Innovation Solution
A power generation system comprising an inverter and a generator set, where the inverter converts DC power from an external source to AC power, and the generator set includes an alternator with series-connected winding sections, operating in various modes to optimize power sharing between the external source and the genset, including a hybrid load sharing mode for high power demand and low energy levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hybrid power generation system integrates renewable energy sources and energy storage devices with generator sets, then power supply flexibility and sustainability are improved, but system complexity and difficulty of achieving desirable operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alternator winding is divided into two separate winding sections that can be independently connected to different loads. This segmentation allows the first winding section to serve the local load while the second winding section serves the remote load through the DC distribution system, enabling flexible power allocation without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The DC distribution system serves multiple functions: it distributes power from the generator set to remote loads, stores energy in energy storage devices, and accepts power from renewable energy sources. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single unified DC distribution network
2Productivity
If the inverter is connected in parallel with the first winding section of the alternator, then power sharing and load management are improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter acts as an intermediary device connected in parallel with the first winding section. It manages power flow between the alternator, DC distribution system, and loads, enabling automatic load management and power sharing without requiring complex direct control between all system components
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors power flow and load conditions to automatically adjust inverter operation and winding connections. This feedback mechanism enables desirable operation modes (islanded, grid-connected, hybrid) without manual intervention, simplifying control despite the complex power sharing requirements
3Power
If the generator set operates in hybrid load sharing mode to meet high power demand, then power supply capability is improved, but fuel consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
Energy storage devices are charged in advance during periods of low demand or when renewable energy is available. This preliminary energy storage allows the generator set to operate at optimal levels while still meeting high power demands through the combined capacity of the generator and stored energy
Solution Approach 2:
The system operates in different modes periodically based on demand and energy availability: using stored energy during high demand periods, integrating renewable energy when available, and charging energy storage during low demand periods. This periodic operation optimizes fuel consumption while maintaining power supply capability
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 system effectively buffers grid transients, reduces spinning reserve requirements, and enhances efficiency by allowing gradual load take-up, saving fuel, reducing emissions, and improving control stability, while enabling the use of smaller gensets and reducing mechanical stress.
Implementation Method 1
The inverter is configured to convert a direct current (DC) power from an external power source to an alternating current (AC) power
Implementation Method 2
The engine may be operatively coupled to an alternator, and the alternator may be configured to generate electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation system (100) including an inverter (140) structured to convert a direct current (DC) power output from an external source (110) to an alternating current (AC) power. The inverter includes at least one phase for converting the DC power to a corresponding phase of AC power. The system also includes an alternator (124) of a generator set (120). The alternator includes at least one phase, each comprising a first winding section and a second winding section coupled in series between a point of common coupling and an output terminal of the phase. A phase of the inverter is connected in parallel with the first winding section of the alternator. The inverter is configured to provide reactive power compensation, power factor correction or acts as an active filter to provide harmoincs damping and the system can be used to buffer and handle grids transients.