Submersible Power Plant Wing Angle of Attack Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Submersible power plants with winged vehicles secured by tethers face challenges in controlling operations, particularly in starting and stopping, optimizing power output, and avoiding damage during tidal stream energy conversion, due to varying fluid stream speeds and potential collisions or power losses.
Innovation Solution
The method involves adjusting the angle of attack of the wing based on fluid speed, using sensors to determine conditions, and employing a pitch control system to extend or retract a rear strut, allowing for starting, optimizing power generation, stopping, and maintaining position, thereby controlling the vehicle's trajectory and preventing collisions or power-related issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the vehicle operates in varying fluid stream speeds, then power generation capability is improved, but control difficulty and risk of damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the vehicle's angle of attack relative to the fluid stream. The vehicle can actively adjust its orientation and angle of attack in response to varying flow conditions, transitioning between different operational states (starting, power generation, stopping) to optimize power output while maintaining safety across a range of fluid speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The control system modifies key operational parameters including angle of attack, vehicle speed, and position in response to detected fluid stream conditions. By dynamically changing these parameters based on real-time sensor data, the system optimizes power generation while preventing damage in varying flow conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle starts and stops frequently, then operational flexibility is improved, but mechanical stress and damage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
Before initiating start or stop sequences, the control system evaluates current operational conditions and prepares appropriate control actions. The system determines optimal timing and sequencing of angle of attack changes and speed adjustments to minimize mechanical stress during transitions, ensuring flexible operation while protecting structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements protective measures during start and stop operations by gradually adjusting the angle of attack and monitoring loads on the tether and vehicle structure. This cushioning approach prevents sudden mechanical shocks that could damage the vehicle while maintaining operational flexibility
3Productivity
If the vehicle optimizes power output, then energy production is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors operational parameters including fluid stream speed, vehicle position, angle of attack, and power output. This feedback enables the system to automatically adjust control actions to optimize power generation, managing complexity through automated closed-loop control rather than manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs multiple functions using integrated algorithms: it determines fluid speed, selects operational states, adjusts angle of attack, monitors safety conditions, and optimizes power output. By consolidating these functions into a unified control system, the patent manages complexity while achieving comprehensive optimization
4Measurement precision
If sensors provide comprehensive information, then control precision is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to provide comprehensive information for multiple control functions using an integrated set of sensors. The sensor data serves multiple purposes: determining fluid speed, monitoring vehicle position, detecting operational conditions, and enabling safety assessments, thereby reducing overall system complexity through multi-functional use of sensor information
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 method enables precise control of the submersible power plant's operation, ensuring safe start and stop functions, optimizing power output, and preventing collisions or damage, by adjusting the wing's angle of attack in response to fluid speed and other conditions, thus enhancing operational reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the lift exerted on the wing by the fluid passing the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
the lift exerted on the wing by the fluid passing the vehicle is essentially zero or
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of a submersible power plant (1) and a submersible power plant (1). The submersible power plant (1) comprises a structure (2) and a vehicle (3). The vehicle (3) comprises at least one wing (4). The vehicle (3) is arranged to be secured to the structure (2) by means of at least one tether (5). The vehicle (3) is arranged to move in a predetermined trajectory by means of a fluid stream passing the vehicle (3). The vehicle (3) is arranged to change the angle of attack of the at least one wing (4). The method comprises: I: determining if the speed of the fluid passing the vehicle (3) is higher than a predetermined value; or II: determining if the speed of the fluid passing the vehicle (3) is lower than the predetermined value. The vehicle (3) changes the angle of attack for different situations depending on if the speed is higher or lower than the predetermined trajectory.