Wind Turbine Generator Switch Segmentation for Low-Voltage Ride-Through
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wind turbine operations, voltage drops can cause circuit breakers to trip, leading to prolonged downtime due to the need for manual intervention, reducing the operating rate.
Innovation Solution
A wind turbine generator design featuring a first switch with superior withstand current capability and a remotely controllable second switch, both capable of handling overcurrents during low-voltage events, ensuring continuous operation and remote restart capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a circuit breaker with high withstand current capability is used to protect the power generator, then the power generator is protected from damage, but the circuit breaker trips during low-voltage events causing manual intervention and reduced operating rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single switch function into two separate switches: a first switch (circuit breaker) with high withstand current capability for generator protection, and a second switch (contactor) with lower withstand current capability for normal connection control. This segmentation allows each switch to be optimized for its specific function, preventing the first switch from tripping during low-voltage events while maintaining generator protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The second switch acts as an intermediary between the power generator and the first switch. It handles the connection/disconnection operations during normal operation and low-voltage events, shielding the first switch from excessive current stress that would cause tripping. The second switch can be remotely controlled to close after tripping, enabling automatic restart without manual intervention.
2Strength
If the first switch is designed with high withstand current capability to withstand generator thermal settings, then generator protection is ensured, but it trips during low-voltage events requiring manual reset
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switch functions so that the first switch maintains high withstand current capability for generator protection while the second switch handles connection control. The second switch can be remotely operated, eliminating the need for manual intervention at the turbine site when it trips.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation of the first switch with remote automated control of the second switch. The second switch is equipped with remote control capability that allows it to be closed automatically after tripping, substituting the need for on-site manual intervention.
3Device complexity
If a single switch is used for connection control, then the system is simple, but it cannot simultaneously protect the generator and maintain connection during low-voltage events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single switch function into two specialized switches: the first switch (circuit breaker) for generator protection with high withstand current capability, and the second switch (contactor) for connection control with remote operation capability. This segmentation enables both generator protection and connection maintenance during low-voltage events.
Solution Approach 2:
The first switch is designed with universal withstand current capability that covers both normal operating conditions and low-voltage event conditions, allowing it to protect the generator in all scenarios. The second switch provides multi-functionality by handling both normal connection control and automatic restart operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An object is to improve the operating rate. A first switch is provided in a power line connecting a power generator to a power system, and a second switch that can be opened and closed by remote control is provided in the power line between the power generator and the first switch. In the second switch, a withstand current capability is set that allows current flowing in a low-voltage event and that withstands current having a value equal to or less than a current value specified by the thermal setting of the power generator. In the first switch, a withstand current capability is set that is superior to the withstand current capability of the second switch and that withstands current having a value equal to or less than the current value specified by the thermal setting of the power generator.