Power Conversion System for Independent Generator Frequency Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Power generation systems relying on speed synchronization hardware, such as gearboxes, are complex and inefficient, as they require turbines to operate at specific grid frequencies, limiting operational efficiency and increasing complexity.

Innovation Solution

A power conversion system that includes a rectifier, inverter, and processor to convert power characteristics independently of the grid, allowing generators to operate at optimal speeds without gearboxes, by converting AC power to DC and back to AC with specified grid-compatible characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a gearbox is used to synchronize the generator output with the power grid, then the frequency and phase of the voltage output can be controlled to match the grid, but the turbine must operate at less efficient speeds and the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesynchronization capabilityVSAvoidturbine operating efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical gearbox synchronization system with an electronic power conversion system. The generator is connected to the grid through a power converter that electronically controls the output frequency and phase, allowing the turbine to operate at its optimal speed without mechanical speed adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the turbine by decoupling the generator output frequency from the turbine rotational speed through power electronic conversion. This allows the turbine to operate at rated speed while the power converter adjusts the electrical output frequency to match grid requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a gearbox is used to synchronize the generator output with the power grid, then the frequency and phase of the voltage output can be controlled to match the grid, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesynchronization capabilityVSAvoidsynchronization hardware

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical gearbox synchronization system with an electronic power conversion system. The generator is connected to the grid through a power converter that electronically controls the output frequency and phase, allowing the turbine to operate at its optimal speed without mechanical speed adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If the turbine operates at grid-synchronized speeds using a gearbox, then the generator can match the grid frequency, but fuel consumption increases due to inefficient operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrid synchronizationVSAvoidfuel consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the turbine by decoupling the generator output frequency from the turbine rotational speed through power electronic conversion. This allows the turbine to operate at rated speed while the power converter adjusts the electrical output frequency to match grid requirements, thereby reducing fuel consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables generators to operate independently of grid characteristics, improving efficiency by allowing turbines to run at rated frequencies, reducing fuel consumption, and simplifying system complexity by eliminating the need for synchronization hardware.

Implementation Method 1

a rectifier configured to convert first voltage to a direct current (DC) voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Implementation Method 2

an inverter comprising one or more switches configured to convert the DC voltage to a second voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10447169B2Independent power factor and frequency control of electrical power generator

Publication Date: 2019.10.15 GE INFRASTRUCTURE TECH LLC

AI summary

A system for providing power to a power grid includes a generator configured to output a first voltage associated with a first set of power characteristics. The system includes a power conversion system including a rectifier configured to convert first voltage to a direct current (DC) voltage. The power conversion system includes an inverter comprising one or more switches configured to convert the DC voltage to a second voltage. The system includes a processor configured to receive a second set of power characteristics associated with a power grid. The processor is configured to determine one or more signals configured to cause the switches in the inverter to convert the DC voltage into the second voltage, wherein the second voltage comprises the second set of power characteristics. The processor is configured to send the signals to the switches.