Modular Generator Power Module for Grid Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional redundant generators face efficiency limitations, safety concerns, and performance issues due to inefficient fuel consumption, noise, and installation challenges, especially in spatially-confined areas, and fail to meet varying power demands effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular power generation system comprising a base, end generator module, interior generator module, and switchgear module, where generators are paralleled and controlled by a microprocessor to optimize power output, reduce fuel consumption, and synchronize with the utility grid, allowing for easy expansion or contraction of power capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple redundant large generators are used to handle larger power load demands, then power capacity is increased, but shipping and installation become difficult due to size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The generator system is divided into multiple smaller modular generator units that can be independently shipped and installed. Each module contains a complete generator set with engine, alternator, and control systems, allowing flexible configuration to meet different power demands without requiring transport of oversized single units.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple generator modules are arranged in a nested or stacked configuration within a common enclosure or skid-mounted platform. The modules can be physically nested or tightly integrated to minimize footprint while maintaining individual operability, enabling compact deployment in spatially-confined areas.
2Power
If multiple oversized generators are deployed to meet high power demands, then power capacity is sufficient, but the footprint and spatial requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple compact modular generator units instead of one or two oversized generators. This segmentation allows the total power capacity to be achieved through aggregation of smaller units that occupy less individual space and can be arranged more efficiently within the available area.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple generator modules are combined within a shared enclosure or mounting platform that consolidates common infrastructure such as fuel storage, exhaust systems, and control equipment. This merging reduces the overall footprint by eliminating redundant components across individual generator packages.
3Reliability
If redundant generators operate simultaneously to ensure continuous power supply, then reliability is improved, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically manages the operation of multiple generator modules based on actual power demand. Generators can be individually started, stopped, or load-adjusted in response to changing conditions, ensuring that only the necessary number of units operate at any given time. This dynamic control maintains reliability through redundancy while minimizing fuel consumption by avoiding unnecessary operation of all generators simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for a generator power module. The power module includes an end generator module and an interior generator module that together form a substantial enclosure. The power module may also include a switchgear module. A base may support the modules and may supply common fuel to each of the generators. The enclosure may include a control system to coordinate the generators as a unit in parallel to a utility grid and to control each generator's power output in response to a power load demand. In other embodiments, the enclosure includes a series of drawer air intake louvers to move air into the enclosure. A method of operating the power module includes activating the generators and controlling the control system to individually operate a generator in the block of generators in response to a power load demand.