Remote Wind Turbine Reset via Unified CAR Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for resetting wind turbines require manual operator intervention through separate remote connections to multiple SCADA systems, leading to slow and cumbersome processes due to differing user interfaces and the need for multiple connections, introducing unnecessary delays.
Innovation Solution
A Computer Assisted Reset (CAR) system utilizing a single unified software application and Modbus to OPC Translator (MOT program) enables remote resetting of wind turbines across multiple platforms and SCADA systems, leveraging programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for secure and cost-effective communication, allowing automatic and centralized control of turbine resets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operator intervention through separate remote connections to multiple SCADA systems is used, then each turbine can be reset individually, but the process becomes slow and cumbersome due to multiple connections and differing user interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate SCADA system connections into a single unified interface. The system establishes one remote connection that aggregates access to multiple SCADA systems, allowing operators to reset multiple turbines simultaneously through a single consolidated dashboard rather than navigating each SCADA system separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified interface provides universal access to multiple different SCADA systems through a single standardized communication protocol. The system translates and adapts commands across different SCADA platforms, allowing one interface to control multiple diverse systems without requiring separate specialized connections for each.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate remote connections to different SCADA systems are maintained, then each system can be controlled independently, but the operational complexity and effort required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary unified interface system that sits between the operator and multiple SCADA systems. This intermediary translates standardized commands into system-specific protocols, shielding operators from the complexity of different SCADA interfaces while maintaining compatibility with each underlying system through adaptive translation layers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If regular computers are used for remote control, then flexible software updates and virus protection are available, but the systems become prone to viral attacks and require frequent operating system updates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable, single-purpose programmable logic controllers (PLCs) designed for industrial reliability rather than general computing flexibility. These specialized devices prioritize security and stability over software versatility, using hardened operating systems that are immune to viral attacks and require minimal updates, accepting this trade-off as necessary for critical remote control functions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a Computer Assisted Reset (CAR) system that allows a central operations team to remotely reset turbine faults across multiple wind turbine platforms and SCADA systems with a single interface. The system also allows automatic resets to occur. One aspect of the invention includes a Modbus to OPC Translator. The translator permits the implementation of a system where a PLC located at wind turbine control sites can accept control messages or commands organized or formatted in accordance with the Modbus protocol and sent over an Internet Protocol connection, with the translator receiving the requests through the PLC and generating an appropriate OPC (“OLE Process Control”) request. The OPC request may then be passed onto a corresponding OPC server residing in the SCADA system for each wind turbine control site.