Power Supply System Parallel Generator Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems used in off-grid areas, such as construction sites, suffer from low energy conversion efficiency due to fossil fuel generators operating outside optimal power ranges, leading to high fuel demand, emissions, and increased costs, with energy storage capacity limitations and conversion losses during peak loads.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a control device that switches between two operating modes: one where the generator supplies energy to a DC intermediate circuit and storage, and another where the generator operates in parallel with the inverter to manage peak loads, using a bidirectional rectifier and integrating photovoltaic and thermoelectric systems for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the generator is connected to a DC intermediate circuit via a rectifier to supply power to an energy storage device, then the generator can operate at the optimum operating point, but the maximum load is limited by the capacity of the energy storage and considerable conversion losses occur during peak load operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between two operating modes: a first mode where the generator connects to the DC intermediate circuit through a rectifier for normal operation, and a second mode where the generator connects in parallel with the inverter through a bidirectional power converter to handle peak loads. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to varying load conditions, avoiding the limitations of a fixed architecture while minimizing conversion losses by selecting the appropriate connection mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device monitors load conditions and changes the system's electrical configuration parameters by switching between different connection topologies. When peak load is detected, the system transitions from the first operating mode (generator→rectifier→DC circuit) to the second operating mode (generator→bidirectional power converter→parallel connection with inverter), thereby changing the electrical parameters to accommodate higher power demands without excessive conversion losses.
2Productivity
If the generator is sized to handle peak loads alone, then peak load operation is possible, but the generator cannot operate in the optimal efficiency range during normal load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the generator's output with the DC intermediate circuit through a bidirectional power converter, creating a combined power supply architecture. During normal operation, the generator operates at optimal efficiency by supplying power to the DC circuit, while the inverter supplements the power for peak loads. This merging allows both components to work together synergistically, with each operating within its optimal range regardless of overall system load demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The bidirectional power converter serves multiple functions: it enables the generator to connect to the DC intermediate circuit during normal operation, allows the generator to supply power directly to the load in parallel with the inverter during peak loads, and can operate in reverse to charge the energy storage device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate systems for different operating conditions, allowing the generator to maintain optimal efficiency across varying load scenarios.
3Reliability
If a DC buffer is interposed between the generator and the load, then the generator can operate at the optimum operating point, but considerable conversion losses occur during peak load operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bidirectional power converter as an intermediary device between the generator and the load, which can operate in different modes depending on system conditions. Unlike a fixed DC buffer, this intermediary can dynamically change its function: acting as a rectifier during normal operation to maintain generator stability, and switching to a parallel connection mode during peak loads to minimize conversion losses by allowing direct power transfer from the generator to the load through the inverter.
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
This configuration increases overall energy efficiency, reduces emissions and costs, allows for a smaller generator size, and ensures continuous power supply by optimizing generator operation and utilizing renewable energy sources, thereby minimizing fuel consumption and emissions.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic system which is connectable to the DC intermediate circuit
Implementation Method 2
a thermoelectric generator which is connectable to the DC intermediate circuit
Data Source
AI summary
In a power supply system comprising an electric generator, a DC intermediate circuit, at least one rechargeable electrical energy storage, which is connected to the DC intermediate circuit, a rectifier via which the electrical generator is connectable to the DC intermediate circuit, and at least a first inverter, the DC side of which is supplied with direct current from the DC intermediate circuit and the AC side of which is connectable to an electrical load, and further comprising a control device which regulates the generator in dependence on the load of the electrical load, it is provided that the control device is designed to switch between a first and a second operating mode of the power supply system, wherein in the first operating mode the electrical energy generated by the electrical generator is supplied via the rectifier to the DC intermediate circuit, and in the second operating mode the generator is connected to the load in parallel with the inverter.