Wind Turbine Controller Adaptive De-Rating Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wind turbine de-rating methods rely on single predetermined curves, which are not adaptable to varying operating conditions, requiring significant engineering time and being optimized for only a small portion of potential operating conditions, making them inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses a controller to de-rate wind turbine speed and/or torque based on real-time limiting constraints, such as maximum current, voltage, and temperature, allowing for adaptive de-rating within permissible operating regions defined by maximum and minimum operating curves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single predetermined de-rating curve is used, then the de-rating process is simplified, but it cannot account for the wide range of operating conditions and requires significant engineering time for each wind turbine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the de-rating process by dividing it into multiple de-rating curves, each optimized for specific operating conditions (e.g., different wind speeds, temperature ranges, or component loading scenarios). Instead of using a single curve, the system selects and applies appropriate segments based on real-time operating parameters, thereby achieving both simplicity in individual curve application and versatility across diverse conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which de-rating curve to apply based on real-time operating conditions such as wind speed, temperature, and component status. This dynamic adaptation allows the de-rating process to remain simple at any given moment while being versatile across all possible operating scenarios, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.
2Productivity
If a predetermined de-rating curve is optimized for specific operating conditions, then performance is optimized for those conditions, but it cannot account for other potential operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of de-rating curves from a single fixed curve to multiple curves with different optimization parameters. Each curve is optimized for specific parameter ranges (e.g., low wind speed, high temperature), and the system adjusts which curve is active based on current parameter values. This allows high productivity within each parameter range while maintaining versatility across all ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universality by creating a family of de-rating curves that collectively cover all possible operating conditions. Each individual curve serves a specific function for its optimized condition range, while the entire set of curves provides universal coverage for all operating scenarios, resolving the contradiction between specialized optimization and broad applicability.
3Reliability
If a de-rating curve is specifically tailored for each wind turbine, then it accounts for component loading and system constraints, but the development process becomes challenging and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating template de-rating curves that can be replicated and adapted for different wind turbines. Instead of developing entirely new curves for each turbine, the system uses standardized templates that are customized with specific component parameters, significantly reducing development time while maintaining reliability through parameterized adaptation to each turbine's unique characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs parameterized de-rating curves where general curve structures are maintained but specific parameters (such as component ratings, thermal limits, and operational constraints) are changed to match each wind turbine's characteristics. This approach preserves reliability through customized parameter settings while reducing engineering time by avoiding complete curve redesign for each turbine.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method 200 for controlling a wind turbine system may generally include controlling a wind turbine 10 to operate at a speed and torque setting within a permissible operating region defined between maximum 302 and minimum 304 operating curves, receiving a speed de-rate request and/or a torque de-rate request to de-rate the wind turbine 10 based on a limiting constraint of the wind turbine system, determining an adjusted speed setting 322 and/or an adjusted torque setting 332 for the wind turbine 10 based on the speed de-rate request and/or the torque de-rate request, determining whether an adjustment of the wind turbine operation to the adjusted speed setting 322 and/or the adjusted torque setting 332 would place the turbine 10 outside the permissible operating region and, if the adjustment would place the operation outside the permissible operating region, adjusting the speed setting and/or the torque setting to a new speed and/or torque setting defined along the maximum 302 or minimum 304 operating curve.