Variable Speed Generator Control for Battery Charging Under Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power management systems often employ oversized constant speed generators that operate below peak efficiency and cannot charge batteries while providing power to loads, leading to battery damage and unnecessary fuel consumption when the primary power source is unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A power management system incorporating a variable speed generator controlled by a generator controller that monitors and adjusts the charge level of an energy storage device, allowing it to charge the battery while providing power to loads and optimizing generator operation based on demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a constant speed generator is used to provide power to loads, then the generator can operate reliably, but it operates below peak efficiency and cannot charge the battery simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a constant speed generator to a variable speed generator. The generator controller dynamically adjusts the generator's operating speed based on real-time load conditions and battery charge levels, allowing the generator to operate at peak efficiency points while maintaining reliable power supply. This dynamic adjustment enables the generator to optimize its performance characteristics continuously rather than operating at fixed suboptimal speeds.
2Reliability
If the generator is started sooner to prevent battery damage, then the battery is protected, but the generator consumes fuel unnecessarily and the battery is underutilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through the generator controller that continuously monitors battery charge levels, load demands, and generator operating conditions. This feedback mechanism allows the system to make informed decisions about when to start the generator and when to rely on battery power, preventing both battery damage and unnecessary fuel consumption. The controller adjusts generator operation based on real-time system state rather than predetermined schedules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary assessment of battery charge levels and load requirements before deciding to start the generator. The controller evaluates whether battery charge is sufficient to meet anticipated load demands, and only initiates generator operation when necessary. This preliminary evaluation prevents unnecessary generator startup and fuel consumption while ensuring battery protection when charge levels become critical.
3Power
If a constant speed generator is oversized for the application, then it can meet peak load demands, but it operates below peak efficiency during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The variable speed generator dynamically adjusts its operating speed to match actual load demands, allowing an appropriately sized generator to deliver peak power when needed while operating efficiently during normal conditions. The generator controller modulates speed based on real-time power requirements, enabling the generator to operate at or near peak efficiency points across a range of load conditions rather than being forced to run at fixed speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters (specifically speed) of the generator based on load conditions. By varying the rotational speed parameter, the generator can maintain optimal operating points across different power demands. This parameter adjustment allows the generator to deliver full peak power capability when required while minimizing energy losses during normal operation through optimized speed selection.
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
The system efficiently manages power by utilizing a variable speed generator to charge batteries and reduce fuel consumption, preventing battery damage and optimizing generator performance.
Implementation Method 1
a variable speed generator (12) that provides a voltage output to a bus (11)
Data Source
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AI summary
Some embodiments relate to a power management system. The power management system includes a variable speed generator that provides a voltage output to a bus that is adapted to be connected to a load and an energy storage device. The power management system further includes a generator controller that controls the speed of the variable speed generator and monitors a charge level of the energy storage device. The generator controller also remotely displays information relating to the charge level of the energy storage device by supplying information relating to operation of the power management system over a network. The generator controller may remotely display information relating to the charge level of the energy storage device by supplying information relating to operation of the power management system over the Internet. The generator controller may also start/stop the variable speed generator based on the charge level of the energy storage device.