Upward Lightning Warning in Wind Farms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storm warning systems are inadequate for detecting winter storms that cause upward lightning activity in wind farms, as they primarily focus on convective storms and do not account for the unique conditions leading to upward lightning strikes from tall structures during 'thundersnow' events, where no prior lightning activity occurs before upward strikes originate from wind-driven power generators.
Innovation Solution
A method that detects the presence of a storm cell and measures the local electric field to predict the generation of upward lightning by combining atmospheric conditions such as temperature and pressure with electric field data, sending a warning signal when the probability exceeds a threshold, specifically identifying a relationship like temperature < -10°C at 700 hPa and 3 km height as indicative of upward lightning risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional storm warning systems based on magnetic field meters and electromagnetic sensors are used, then convective storms (summer storms) can be detected, but upward lightning activity during winter storms cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a storm warning system that can detect both convective storms (summer storms with downward lightning) and winter storms (storms with upward lightning from tall structures). The system uses multiple detection methods including electric field detection, atmospheric condition monitoring (temperature, pressure, humidity), and radar to achieve multi-functional capability across different storm types, making the system adaptable to various lightning activity patterns rather than being specialized for only one type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by monitoring multiple atmospheric parameters (temperature, pressure, humidity) in addition to electric field changes. The system specifically looks for characteristic parameter patterns associated with winter storms, such as temperature below -10°C at 700 hPa pressure level, which distinguishes winter storm conditions from summer convective storms. This multi-parameter approach enables detection of upward lightning risks that single-parameter systems would miss.
2Reliability
If electric field detection is used to confirm storm presence in the wind farm, then detection reliability is improved, but the ability to predict upward lightning risk remains insufficient without additional atmospheric conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring atmospheric conditions and comparing them against predetermined thresholds for upward lightning risk. The system uses electric field detection as a base indicator and then incorporates feedback from temperature, pressure, and humidity measurements to refine the risk assessment. When atmospheric parameters meet specific criteria (e.g., temperature < -10°C at 700 hPa), the system generates a warning signal, creating a feedback loop that improves prediction accuracy based on cumulative data from multiple sensors.
3Measurement precision
If multiple atmospheric conditions and electric field data are combined for upward lightning prediction, then prediction accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the detection system into separate functional modules: electric field detection units, atmospheric condition sensors (temperature, pressure, humidity), radar systems, and a control unit that processes data from all sources. Each module independently measures specific parameters, and the control unit integrates the data to determine upward lightning risk. This segmented architecture improves prediction accuracy through comprehensive data collection while managing system complexity through modular design and clear separation of functions.
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
Effectively forecasts and warns of upward lightning generation in wind farms by accurately determining the risk based on combined atmospheric and electric field data, providing timely alerts to mitigate potential damage.
Implementation Method 1
the local electric field is measured
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for warning about lightning activity in wind farms which is suitable for predicting the generation of upward lightning originating from the wind-driven power generators (101) of the wind farm (100) and for warning about said possible generation. To that end, in the method the presence or absence of a storm cell (200) in the wind farm (100) and/or in the vicinity thereof, preferably within a radius of less than 400 km, is detected; the local electric field in the wind farm (100) is measured, at least one atmospheric condition is identified or measured under given premises, and the probabilities of the generation of upward lightning originating from the wind-driven power generators (101) of the wind farm (100) are determined depending on the result of said measurements, identifications and detections, a warning signal being transmitted in the event that the determined probability exceeds a given threshold value.