Hybrid HVDC Transformer for Offshore Wind Power Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVDC technologies are not suitable for multipoint active network structures in distributed renewable energy power generation systems, leading to significant energy losses and environmental impact due to the use of HVAC transmission systems, which are inefficient and difficult to implement in remote offshore power plants.
Innovation Solution
A power collection and distribution system utilizing hybrid HVDC transformers that allow bi-directional power flow, with high frequency switching to reduce transformer size and conduction losses, enabling efficient transmission via HVDC links that can span tens of kilometers, including subsea installations, and incorporating superconductor technology for loss-less power connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If HVAC transmission systems are used to transmit power from remote renewable energy power plants to the grid, then power can be transmitted over long distances, but significant energy losses occur due to conduction and eddy current losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of power transmission from Alternating Current (AC) to Direct Current (DC). This parameter change eliminates eddy current losses inherent in AC systems and enables efficient long-distance power transmission from remote renewable energy plants to the grid without significant energy losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional HVAC transmission infrastructure with HVDC transmission technology. This substitution eliminates the need for complex AC transmission systems with associated transformers and reactive power compensators, reducing both energy losses and environmental impact while maintaining long-distance transmission capability.
2Loss of energy
If step-up transformers and reactive power compensators are installed in remote offshore power plants to increase voltage level, then power transmission efficiency improves, but the size and complexity of the system increases making it difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for large step-up transformers and reactive power compensators from the remote offshore power plant system. By using HVDC technology, voltage conversion is achieved through power electronic converters rather than bulky electromagnetic transformers, significantly reducing system size and complexity while maintaining transmission efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating principle from AC to DC, which fundamentally alters how voltage transformation is achieved. Instead of using large electromagnetic transformers, HVDC systems use power electronic converters that can change voltage levels more compactly and efficiently, reducing the physical footprint and complexity of remote power plant equipment.
3Loss of energy
If HVDC technology is used for long distance point-to-point bulk power transmission, then energy losses are reduced, but the technology is not suitable for multipoint active network structures required for distributed renewable energy power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes HVDC technology universal and adaptable to multipoint active network structures by using voltage source converters that can operate in both rectifier and inverter modes. This enables the same HVDC technology to handle both point-to-point bulk transmission and distributed multipoint connections, providing versatility for different renewable energy power generation configurations while maintaining low transmission losses.
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
Significantly reduces power losses and environmental impact by enabling efficient transmission of renewable energy over long distances with reduced transformer size and eliminating the need for overland transmission towers, while allowing for multipoint power collection and distribution, enhancing system redundancy and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a first hybrid HVDC transformer; a power distribution module comprising a second hybrid HVDC transformer... wherein the first hybrid HVDC transformer is configured to receive a MVDC and step-up the MVDC to a HVDC for transmission
Implementation Method 2
the second hybrid HVDC transformer is configured to receive the HVDC and step-down the HVDC to a MVDC
Implementation Method 3
incorporating superconductor technology for loss-less power connection
Data Source
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AI summary
A power collection and distribution system comprising a power collection module comprising a first hybrid HVDC transformer; a power distribution module comprising a second hybrid HVDC transformer; and a HVDC transmission link connecting the first hybrid HVDC transformer and the second hybrid HVDC transformer, wherein the first hybrid HVDC transformer is configured to receive a MVDC and step-up the MVDC to a HVDC for transmission via the HVDC transmission link and the second hybrid HVDC transformer is configured to receive the HVDC and step- down the HVDC to a MVDC. The system reduces the overall power loss during transmission and minimises the environmental impact associated therewith and allows at least the first hybrid HVDC transformer to be installed in the nacelle of a wind turbine or wave or tidal machine.