Wind Power Converter Control Map Correction for MPPT

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wind power generation devices face inefficiencies due to variations in output characteristics based on installation location environments, with existing systems failing to adapt and maximize efficiency across different locations.

Innovation Solution

A control device that includes a power converter, storage for a reference map, and a controller capable of correction control to optimize output power by searching for and adjusting the input voltage for maximum efficiency, and correcting the reference map based on these adjustments, while also incorporating a brake device to prevent excessive rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a fixed reference map is used for control, then the control system is simple and stable, but the power generation efficiency cannot be maximized in varying environmental conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reference map is transformed from a static fixed value to a dynamic adjustable parameter. The correction control unit modifies the reference map in real-time based on actual power generation conditions, allowing the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through automated adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A feedback mechanism is implemented where the actual output power is continuously monitored and compared with the reference map values. The correction control unit uses this feedback to automatically adjust the reference map, creating a closed-loop control system that maximizes efficiency without requiring complex manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the correction control is continuously executed to optimize output power, then the power generation efficiency is maximized, but the rotational speed may become unstable and excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput power optimizationVSAvoidrotational speed stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically changes the operating parameters (input voltage, output power) based on environmental conditions while maintaining the rotational speed within safe limits. The correction control adjusts electrical parameters rather than directly controlling mechanical speed, indirect optimization that preserves stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The control system incorporates preventive measures by monitoring rotational speed and limiting correction control execution when speed thresholds are approached. This beforehand cushioning prevents excessive rotation before it occurs, ensuring reliability while still allowing efficiency optimization under normal conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the reference map is frequently corrected to adapt to environmental variations, then the adaptability to installation location is improved, but the system stability and operational reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to installation environmentVSAvoidsystem operational stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary corrections during low-wind periods when power generation demand is low, preparing the reference map for optimal performance before high-wind conditions occur. This timing strategy allows adaptation without compromising stability during critical power generation periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The correction control is executed periodically rather than continuously, with specific conditions for when corrections should be made. This periodic approach allows the system to adapt to environmental changes while maintaining stability by avoiding excessive or unnecessary corrections that could disrupt normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 control device ensures maximum efficiency of wind power generation by adapting to environmental conditions, optimizing output power, and preventing excessive rotation of the windmill, thereby enhancing overall performance regardless of the installation location.

Implementation Method 1

a generator that converts rotational energy of a windmill (11) into electric energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4120552B1Control device for power generation device
Publication Date: 2025.01.08 NTN CORP
  • EP4120552B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4120552B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4120552B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A power generation system (1) includes a wind power generation device (10), a control device (20), and a power supply target (30). In power generation system (1), control device (20) performs power conversion to a power generated by wind power generation device (10), and supplies the converted power to a power supply target (30). Control device (20) has a reference map (232) for controlling a power conversion device (21) of the control device. Reference map (232) is a map indicating a relationship between an input voltage to the control device (power conversion device) and an output power from the control device (power conversion device). When a start condition is satisfied, control device (20) executes correction control for correcting reference map (232), and searches for a point at which an output power of power generation system (1) is maximized while shifting the output voltage of a generator (14) by MPPT control. Control device (20) corrects reference map (232) on the basis of a result of the search.