Hybrid Power System DC Source Integration Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hybrid power generation systems require bulkier and costlier power converters with higher rated power to support auxiliary power sources with higher power generation capabilities, leading to increased space and cost requirements.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid power generation system with an integration control sub-system that includes a bypass switch and a second power converter, allowing the DC power source to be connected directly to the DC-link, thereby bypassing the second power converter, which reduces the required rated power and utilizes the power converter more efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a power converter with higher rated power is used to support auxiliary power sources with higher power generation capability, then the power generation capability is improved, but the size and cost of the power converter increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidpower converter size

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamic switching between two connection modes for the DC power source: direct connection to the DC-link when voltage matches, and connection via the second power converter when voltage adjustment is needed. This dynamic approach allows the system to handle high power generation capability without requiring a permanently oversized power converter, thus reducing the converter's size while maintaining the ability to support high power sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the connection configuration parameter of the DC power source based on voltage matching conditions. When the DC power source voltage matches the DC-link voltage, the system switches to direct connection mode, bypassing the power converter. This parameter change allows the power converter to operate at lower capacity, reducing its size while still supporting high-power DC sources when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Power

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidpower converter cost

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic switching mechanism allows the system to use the expensive high-rated power converter only when necessary for voltage adjustment, while primarily operating in direct connection mode. This reduces the overall cost burden by minimizing the reliance on expensive converter hardware while maintaining the capability to support high-power generation sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the connection parameter based on voltage matching, the system avoids the need to permanently install and pay for a large-rated power converter. The converter can be sized for occasional use rather than continuous high-power operation, significantly reducing the overall system cost while maintaining power generation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Power

If a power converter with higher rated power is used, then the auxiliary power source with higher power generation capability is supported, but the space requirements of the system increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauxiliary power source capabilityVSAvoidsystem space requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic connection switching reduces the physical space needed by allowing the power converter to be smaller in size. Since the converter only needs to handle power conversion when voltage adjustment is required, rather than continuously handling maximum power, its physical dimensions can be reduced while still supporting high-capacity auxiliary power sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If the DC power source is connected via the second power converter, then voltage matching is achieved, but the power converter operates at higher capacity requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage matchingVSAvoidpower converter rated power

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between direct connection and converter-mediated connection based on voltage matching conditions. When voltages match, direct connection is used, allowing the power converter to be rated for lower power. When voltages don't match, the converter handles the adjustment temporarily. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by showing that high voltage matching capability doesn't require continuously high-rated power converter hardware.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11223208B2Method and system for controlling integration of DC power source in hybrid power generation system

Publication Date: 2022.01.11 GE GRID SOLUTIONS LLC

AI summary

A hybrid power generation system is presented. The hybrid power generation system includes a generator operable via a prime mover and configured to generate an alternating current (AC) power. The hybrid power generation system further includes a first power converter electrically coupled to the generator, where the first power converter includes a direct current (DC) link. Furthermore, the hybrid power generation system includes a DC power source configured to be coupled to the DC-link. Moreover, the hybrid power generation system also includes a second power converter. Additionally, the hybrid power generation system includes an integration control sub-system operatively coupled to the first power converter and the DC power source. The integration control sub-system includes at least one bypass switch disposed between the DC power source and the DC-link and configured to connect the DC power source to the DC-link via the second power converter or bypass the second power converter.