Wind Turbine Fault Control via Safe-Mode Trajectory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind turbine control systems are inadequate in handling fault conditions, as they rely on predefined shutdown routines based on limited measurements, failing to account for the actual operational state of the turbine, which can lead to suboptimal or unsafe operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a model predictive control (MPC) routine to calculate a safe-mode trajectory based on the current operational state of the wind turbine, allowing for dynamic adaptation to fault conditions and optimal operation within safe limits, either by continuing operation in safe-mode or shutting down the turbine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If predefined shutdown routines are used based on limited measurements, then the control system is simple and easy to implement, but the system cannot account for the actual operational state of the turbine leading to suboptimal or unsafe operations
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between normal operation mode and safe-mode operation based on detected fault conditions. The safe-mode trajectory is dynamically calculated using MPC routines that adapt to the current operational state, allowing the system to respond flexibly to varying fault conditions while maintaining simplicity through mode-based control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching from normal control trajectories to safe-mode trajectories calculated by MPC. This parameter change enables the system to operate within safe limits during fault conditions while utilizing the actual operational state (rotor speed, generator torque, pitch angles) to determine appropriate safe-mode operation parameters.
2Reliability
If the wind turbine is shut down immediately upon fault detection, then safety is ensured, but downtime and loss of productivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of immediate shutdown, the system dynamically determines the appropriate response based on the fault condition and current operational state. The MPC routine calculates a safe-mode trajectory that allows continued operation within safe limits when possible, dynamically adjusting operational parameters to maintain safety while maximizing productivity by avoiding unnecessary shutdowns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the actual operational state (rotor speed, generator torque, pitch angles) to continuously monitor whether safe-mode operation can be maintained. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adjust operation in real-time, ensuring safety constraints are met while minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity when safe-mode operation is feasible.
3Productivity
If safe-mode operation is allowed to continue, then productivity is maintained, but the risk of component failure increases if not properly controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares safe-mode trajectories in advance using MPC routines that incorporate safety constraints and operational limits. By pre-calculating safe operating paths and having safe-mode control ready to activate, the system cushions against potential component failures by ensuring that when safe-mode is entered, the turbine is already on a pre-planned safe trajectory that minimizes stress on components.
Solution Approach 2:
The MPC routine dynamically adjusts operational parameters (pitch angles, generator torque, rotor speed) to maintain safe operation during fault conditions. These parameter changes ensure that the turbine operates within safe limits while maintaining productivity, transforming the operational parameters to balance safety and productivity objectives based on the specific fault condition and current state.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to control of wind turbines in a situation where a fault condition is detected. Control of a wind turbine is described where a control trajectory and a safe-mode trajectory are calculated based on the current operational state of the wind turbine. If the fault condition is detected the wind turbine is controlled using the safe-mode trajectory, otherwise, the normal operation of the wind turbine is continued where the wind turbine is controlled using the control trajectory.