Wind Turbine Power Converter Layout Without Three-Winding Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-winding transformers associated with wind turbines are expensive, and there is a need to simplify the protective components of wind turbine power systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a two-winding transformer with a partial power transformer and a low voltage distribution panel, along with a bi-directional power converter and cluster transformer configuration, to eliminate the need for three-winding transformers and simplify the system components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a three-winding transformer is used in the wind turbine power system, then power transmission capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power transmission system into two separate transformers: a primary transformer for main power transmission and a secondary transformer for auxiliary power distribution. This segmentation replaces the complex three-winding transformer with two simpler two-winding transformers, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining the ability to handle multiple voltage levels and power flows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a medium voltage bus as an intermediary element between the primary and secondary transformers. This mediator allows for flexible power distribution and enables the system to achieve the functionality of a three-winding transformer through a series of simpler components, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a three-winding transformer is used, then voltage transformation flexibility is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the voltage transformation function across two separate transformers rather than using one complex three-winding transformer. The primary transformer handles main voltage transformation while the secondary transformer handles auxiliary transformations, making each component simpler to manufacture and reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary transformer is designed to serve multiple functions: providing auxiliary power to the turbine, enabling reactive power compensation, and facilitating voltage regulation. This multi-functionality replaces the need for dedicated auxiliary windings in a three-winding transformer, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If complex protective components are used in the power system, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex protective relays and circuit breakers by designing the transformer configuration itself to provide inherent protection. The segmented transformer architecture with isolated windings naturally limits fault propagation, reducing the need for additional protective components.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer configuration provides self-protection through its inherent design features. The isolated windings and neutral grounding arrangements automatically limit fault currents and prevent cascading failures, enabling the system to protect itself without requiring complex external protective devices.
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
Reduces costs and simplifies the system architecture while maintaining efficient power transmission to the power grid, enhancing overall efficiency and reducing component complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The rotor blades capture kinetic energy of wind using known airfoil principles. For example, rotor blades typically have the cross-sectional profile of an airfoil such that, during operation, air flows over the blade producing a pressure difference between the sides. Consequently, a lift force, which is directed from a pressure side towards a suction side, acts on the blade.
Implementation Method 2
As such, a rotating magnetic field may be induced by the generator rotor 30 and a voltage may be induced within a generator stator 32 that is magnetically coupled to the generator rotor 30.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical power system includes a cluster of electrical power subsystems, each of the electrical power subsystems including a power converter electrically coupled to a generator having a generator rotor and a generator stator. Each of the electrical power subsystems defines a stator power path and a converter power path for providing power to the power grid, the converter power path including a partial power transformer. Each of the electrical power subsystems further includes a low voltage distribution panel electrically coupled to the converter power path, a first switch on the stator power path, and a second switch on the converter power path.