Abstract

An arrangement is described comprising a pressurised gas system (30) and a cyclorotor (1) located within an annular structure (20). The cyclorotor (1) can be a propulsor for a marine vessel and includes a rotary housing (2) spaced apart from the structure (20) by an annular volume (22), and a plurality of blades (4a, 4c) extending from a surface of the rotary housing (2), each blade having a respective blade axis (6) about which it can be pivoted relative to the rotary housing (2). The pressurised gas system (30) comprises a pressurised gas supply (32), one or more gas outlets (36) in fluid communication with the annular volume (22), and a gas supply unit (34) with a controller (34b) adapted to control the delivery of pressurised gas from the pressurised gas supply (32) into the annular volume (22) through the one or more gas outlets (36).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 1/10 - Propulsive elements directly acting on water of rotary type with rotation axis substantially at right angles to propulsive direction, e.g. paddle wheels with adjustable vanes or blades with cyclic adjustment with blades extending axially from a disc-shaped rotary body

Abstract

A propulsor (1) for a marine vessel is described. The propulsor includes a plurality of blades (4) extending from a rotary housing (2). The blades (4a) are distributed around a blade pitch circle diameter (D1) of the rotary housing. A mounting plate (14) rotatably mounts the rotary housing (2) to a hull (H) of the marine vessel. A slewing bearing (16) includes a driven ring with a driven gear that is fixed to the rotary housing (2) and a stationary ring fixed to the mounting plate (14). A diameter (D2) of the slewing bearing (16) is at least 0.4 times the blade pitch circle diameter (D1). The propulsor (1) includes a main electric motor (28a) with a drive shaft (26a) mechanically connected to a driving gear (24a). The driven gear of the slewing bearing (16) and the driving gear (24a) define a single-stage transmission gear with a transmission ratio between 5:1 and 15:1.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 1/10 - Propulsive elements directly acting on water of rotary type with rotation axis substantially at right angles to propulsive direction, e.g. paddle wheels with adjustable vanes or blades with cyclic adjustment with blades extending axially from a disc-shaped rotary body

Abstract

A cyclorotor (1) is described that can be used as a propulsor for a marine vessel. The cyclorotor (1) includes a rotary housing (2) comprising a main body (18) and a plurality of blade modules (16a, 16b,..., 16f) arranged circumferentially around the main body (18). The cyclorotor (1) also includes a plurality of blade assemblies, each blade assembly being located in a respective blade module (16a, 16b,..., 16f) and having a blade (4a, 4b,..., 4f) extending from the rotary housing (2) with a blade axis about which it can be pivoted relative to the rotary housing. Each blade assembly is associated with a blade actuator comprising an electric motor and having a drive shaft, a driving gear mechanically connected to the drive shaft and a driven gear mechanically connected to the respective blade assembly for pivoting the respective blade (4a, 4b,..., 4f) about its blade axis. Each blade module (16a, 16b,..., 16f) is preferably adapted to be detached and removed from the main body (18).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 1/10 - Propulsive elements directly acting on water of rotary type with rotation axis substantially at right angles to propulsive direction, e.g. paddle wheels with adjustable vanes or blades with cyclic adjustment with blades extending axially from a disc-shaped rotary body

Abstract

A cooling system (1A) for cooling an item of industrial equipment is described. The cooling system (1A) includes a primary circuit (2) around which a cooling fluid is circulated, and which includes a two-phase heat exchanger (10). A secondary circuit (12) is fluidly connected to the primary circuit (2) in parallel with the heat exchanger (10). The secondary circuit (12) includes a condenser (14), a pump (20), a separator and reservoir tank (22) and a restrictor (28). The boiling point of the cooling fluid at the inlet (10A) of the heat exchanger (10) is reduced by the action of the secondary circuit (10), thereby improving the cooling performance of the cooling system (1A).

IPC Classes  ?

• F25B 23/00 - Machines, plants or systems, with a single mode of operation not covered by groups , e.g. using selective radiation effect
• F25B 25/00 - Machines, plants or systems, using a combination of modes of operation covered by two or more of the groups
• F25D 17/02 - Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating liquids, e.g. brine

Abstract

Provided is a control system (300) for a PV array system (100) including a plurality of PV panels (110, 210). The control system (300) includes a bypass module (250) having a first switch device (260, 310) and a second switch device (262, 312) disposed at least one PV panel (110, 210) connected with others of the plurality of PV panels (110, 210) along a string (200), and configured to perform a switching operation when PV voltage at the at least one PV panel (110, 210) is outside of an acceptable voltage range of the PV array system (100), and the bypass module (250) short-circuits the PV panel (110, 210) when excess voltage at the PV panel (110, 210) is detected. The control system (300) also including a control module (305) configured to monitor and control operation of the bypass module (250).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 31/05 - Electrical interconnection means between PV cells inside the PV module, e.g. series connection of PV cells
• H01L 31/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof
• H01L 31/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices
• H01L 31/042 - PV modules or arrays of single PV cells

Abstract

A doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) system (100) is described. The DFIG system (100) includes an induction electric machine (102) including a stator having a stator winding and a rotor having a rotor winding. The stator winding is electrically connected to at least one output terminal (108) and the rotor winding is electrically connected to the at least one output terminal (108) by means of a power converter. The power converter includes a first active rectifier/inverter (130a) with alternating current AC terminals electrically connected to the rotor winding, and direct current DC terminals, and a second active rectifier/inverter (136a) with DC terminals electrically connected to the DC terminals of the first active rectifier/inverter by a DC link (138a), and AC terminals electrically connected to the at least one output terminal (108). A controller is adapted to control the first active rectifier/inverter (130a) so that the frequency of the AC current at its AC terminals is substantially constant during at least one of a "line charging mode" and an "islanded mode".

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks
• H02P 9/00 - Arrangements for controlling electric generators for the purpose of obtaining a desired output
• H02P 21/00 - Arrangements or methods for the control of electric machines by vector control, e.g. by control of field orientation

Abstract

An active flux control method is described. The active flux control method injects a DC current component into an output transformer (10) that is connected to a power converter in order to reduce the saturation of the output transformer during a network fault. The method includes using a flux controller (20) to derive an estimated magnetisation curve of the output transformer using a closed-loop estimator comprising a flux model (21) and a modelled magnetisation flux (22). A DC component of the estimated magnetisation flux is calculated. Current control is carried out using a current controller (30) that controls the power converter to inject a DC current component into the output transformer. The DC current component is calculated from the DC component of the estimated magnetisation flux.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 3/28 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac
• H02M 1/40 - Means for preventing magnetic saturation
• H02M 3/335 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
• H02M 1/00 - APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF - Details of apparatus for conversion

Abstract

A power converter system (1A) is described. The system includes a power converter (2) with a first converter (2b) including a plurality of semiconductor devices. Each semiconductor device includes at least a controllable semiconductor switch having a threshold voltage and a gate voltage for normal on-state conduction. The first converter (2b) has first and second DC terminals connected to a DC circuit (22), and a plurality of AC terminals. A controller is configured to supply current to the first converter (2b) (e.g., from an AC power source (24)) and enable a short circuit state of the first converter by controlling semiconductor switches of the first converter to create at least one short circuit path through the first converter that carries the supplied current. At least one of the semiconductor switches in at least one of the short circuit paths is operated with modified on-state conduction in order to increase conduction losses. A gate driver applies to the semiconductor switch a modified gate voltage that is less than the gate voltage for normal on-state conduction.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/36 - Means for starting or stopping converters
• H02M 1/32 - Means for protecting converters other than by automatic disconnection
• H02M 1/08 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters
• H02M 5/458 - Conversion of ac power input into ac power output, e.g. for change of voltage, for change of frequency, for change of number of phases with intermediate conversion into dc by static converters using discharge tubes or semiconductor devices to convert the intermediate dc into ac using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
• H02M 7/5387 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters in a bridge configuration
• H02M 7/5395 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters with automatic control of output wave form or frequency by pulse-width modulation
• H02M 1/00 - APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF - Details of apparatus for conversion

Abstract

This electrical protection system (1) for a DC-current medium-voltage electrical circuit, comprising a disconnection module (11), for generating a counter-voltage greater than the voltage of the source for a current flowing therethrough that is equal to at most a few percent of the nominal current of the device, a resistive limitation module (8) connected between a first terminal (B1) and a second terminal (B2) and configured so as to reduce the intensity of the output current of the protection system (1) in order to limit the current between a value VB and VH upon a low-impedance fault downstream of the device, and a primary switching module (5) coupled in parallel across the disconnection module (11) and the resistive module (8). The primary switching module (5) is configured so as to switch between a first state in which the primary switching module is conductive and a second state in which the primary switching module forms a short circuit. Control means (6) for controlling the primary switching module (5) are configured so as to switch the primary switching module (5) as soon as the current flowing in the first terminal (B1) reaches an upper limit value as lower value or a lower limit as upper value.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02H 9/02 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for limiting excess current or voltage without disconnection responsive to excess current
• H01H 33/59 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switch and not otherwise provided for, e.g. for ensuring operation of the switch at a predetermined point in the ac cycle

Abstract

The invention relates to a mechanical drive system (20) comprising a frame (21), at least one rotating electrical machine (22) having a rotor with a non-through shaft (25) disposed on the frame, and at least one transfer box (23) comprising at least one driving gearwheel (37). The driving gearwheel is secured to a rotor shaft of the rotating electrical machine, the transfer box being disposed on the frame.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16H 1/22 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts
• H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
• F16H 57/02 - Gearboxes; Mounting gearing therein

Abstract

The rotor (18) with a non-through shaft for a rotary electric machine comprises a cylindrical magnetic body (19) clamped between two half-shafts (20), each comprising an attachment flange (21) connected to the magnetic body, axial housings (22) being uniformly provided in the magnetic body on at least one diameter (D22) of the magnetic body in order to house conductive bars (25). At least one attachment flange comprises insertion holes (23), each arranged facing a housing for inserting the conductive bars into the housings and the exterior diameter (D21) of the attachment flange is substantially equal to the exterior diameter (D19) of the magnetic body, the attachment flange comprising as many insertion holes (23) as housings.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors
• H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines

Abstract

The conductor bar (17) for a squirrel-cage rotor comprises at least one end (17a) which is partially slit such that a section of the end forms two symmetrical branches (22, 23) relative to the slit (21). The centre of gravity (G3, G4) of each branch is arranged such that the branches flare towards the outside of the bar under the effect of centrifugal force when the rotor is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors

Abstract

The rotor (4) for a squirrel-cage asynchronous rotating electrical machine comprises two compaction elements (6) clamping a cylindrical magnetic mass (7), short-circuit disks (8) inserted between the magnetic mass and the compaction elements, and conductive bars (9) housed in housings (10) of the magnetic mass and evenly distributed over at least one diameter of the magnetic mass, so that the short-circuit disks and the conductive bars form a squirrel-cage, at least one of the compaction elements and the short-circuit disks comprising insertion holes (8a, 12) each disposed facing a housing. Retention means are inserted into each insertion hole to retain the conductive bars in the housings.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors

Abstract

An electrical system forming part of a solar power plant (1) is described. The electrical system includes a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) panels (8), a power converter (2), and a controller (54). In response to a detected electric arc on the DC side of the power converter (2), the controller (54) is configured to enable a short circuit state of the power converter by controlling semiconductor switches of the power converter (e.g., turning on some or all of the semiconductor switches) to create a short circuit between DC input terminals (4) of the power converter. The short circuit path though the power converter (2) will extinguish the detected electric arc in the connected DC circuit (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02H 1/00 - EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS - Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements
• H02H 3/02 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection - Details
• H02H 7/122 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for rectifiers for static converters or rectifiers for inverters, i.e. dc/ac converters

Abstract

An inverter system (1) is described. The inverter system (1) includes a DC power source such as a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) panels (8), an inverter (2) and a controller (32). The inverter (2) includes a plurality of semiconductor devices (e.g., controllable semiconductor switches such as IGBTs and anti-parallel connected diodes) arranged in a suitable inverter topology. The inverter (2) includes DC input terminals (4) connected to the PV panels (8) by means of a DC link (10) and at least one AC output terminal (6). When starting the inverter (2), the controller (32) is configured to enable a short circuit state of the inverter (2) by controlling the semiconductor switches to create a short circuit between the DC input terminals (4) such that the inverter (2) carries a current substantially equal to the short circuit current of the PV panels (8). This short circuit current may be used to pre-heat the semiconductor devices of the inverter (2) to reduce failure rates caused by cosmic radiation when the semiconductor devices subsequently experience high blocking voltages during normal operation of the inverter.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/537 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters
• H02M 7/5387 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters in a bridge configuration
• H02M 7/487 - Neutral point clamped inverters
• H02M 1/32 - Means for protecting converters other than by automatic disconnection
• H02M 1/36 - Means for starting or stopping converters
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02J 3/40 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator

Abstract

Method of control of a polyphase power converter driven by an algorithm of the pulse width modulation type, in which a control parameter comprising a drive setpoint value or a pulse duration associated with a value of drive setpoint of at least one phase, situated in a non-linearity zone of a chart, is modified (42, 45, 46) by modifying the value of said parameter so that it is in a linearity zone of the chart. The control parameter of each of the phases is modified in the same manner.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/5395 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters with automatic control of output wave form or frequency by pulse-width modulation
• H02P 27/08 - Arrangements or methods for the control of AC motors characterised by the kind of supply voltage using variable-frequency supply voltage, e.g. inverter or converter supply voltage using dc to ac converters or inverters with pulse width modulation
• H02M 1/00 - APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF - Details of apparatus for conversion

Abstract

The squirrel-cage rotor (12) for an asynchronous rotating electrical machine comprises two compaction elements (15) clasping a cylindrical magnetic mass (14), short-circuit crowns (16) facing that face of the compaction elements opposite the one in contact with the magnetic mass, and conductive bars (17) housed in recesses in the magnetic mass and distributed uniformly over at least one diameter of the magnetic mass such that the short-circuit crowns and the conductive bars form a squirrel cage. Holding means (19, 20, 21) distributed over at least one diameter of each short-circuit crown and over at least one diameter of each compaction element interact so as to hold the short-circuit crowns and the compaction elements together, the installation diameters of the holding means on the crowns and the compaction elements being smaller than the installation diameter of the conductive bars.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 15/00 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors
• H02K 5/24 - Casings; Enclosures; Supports specially adapted for suppression or reduction of noise or vibrations
• H02K 1/28 - Means for mounting or fastening rotating magnetic parts on to, or to, the rotor structures

Abstract

The disclosed assembly (E) comprises a housing (4) and a stator (29) inserted inside a cylindrical cavity in said housing (4). Said assembly comprises a means for point-to-point attachment (40, 46) of the stator (29) to the housing (4).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/18 - Means for mounting or fastening magnetic stationary parts on to, or to, the stator structures
• H02K 5/04 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof
• H02K 15/02 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of stator or rotor bodies

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining the direction and the amplitude of a force applied to a system (10) comprising a stationary portion (13) and a mobile portion (12) which can deform when exposed to said force. Mechanical deformations applied to the mobile portion when exposed to said force are measured by measuring a distance between the stationary portion and the mobile portion in the direction of application of the force, and the distance measurements are processed in order to determine the amplitude and the direction of the force.

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 5/125 - Arrangements on vessels of propulsion elements directly acting on water of propellers movably mounted with respect to hull, e.g. adjustable in direction
• G01L 5/12 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring axial thrust in a rotary shaft, e.g. of propulsion plants
• B63B 9/00 - Methods of designing, building, maintaining, converting, refitting, repairing, or determining properties of, vessels, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Certain embodiments of the present invention relates to a method for controlling operation of a parallel converter system (100). The parallel converter system (100) includes multiple parallel power converters (1014,10N4), and each of the parallel power converters is coupleable to a corresponding controller (1012,10N2). The method includes: generating, via each of the controllers (1012,10N2), a channel reference signal (VRK), transmitting each of the generated channel reference signals (VRK) to a corresponding one of the parallel power converters (1014,10N4), and adjusting an output current of each of the parallel converters (1014,10N4) responsive to the corresponding channel reference signals(VRK) received, the adjusting controlling a combined output current of the parallel converter system (100). The channel reference signals of these parallel power converters (1014,10N4) are generated in response to the participation factors (PK) of each of the parallel power converters (1014,10N4), and a net converter output reference current.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 5/458 - Conversion of ac power input into ac power output, e.g. for change of voltage, for change of frequency, for change of number of phases with intermediate conversion into dc by static converters using discharge tubes or semiconductor devices to convert the intermediate dc into ac using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
• H02M 7/81 - Conversion of ac power input into dc power output; Conversion of dc power input into ac power output with possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal arranged for operation in parallel

Abstract

The drive unit (12) is designed to be mounted on a marine vessel (2), including a mobile housing, (16) and is able to pivot around an axis (A) against the hull (4) of the marine vessel. A drive shaft (20) mounted rotary is against the mobile housing (16) and is supported by two roller bearings (24, 26). A propulsion element (36) rotates in solidarity with the drive shaft. The propulsion unit has, at the front, at least two braking and locking systems (40) of the drive shaft (20) located in an area between the upstream rolling bearing and propulsion element (36).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 23/35 - Shaft braking or locking, i.e. means to slow or stop the rotation of the propeller shaft or to prevent the shaft from initial rotation
• F16C 32/04 - Bearings not otherwise provided for using magnetic or electric supporting means
• F16D 55/00 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes
• F16D 49/00 - Brakes with a braking member co-operating with the periphery of a drum, wheel-rim, or the like

Abstract

A ring for shaft bearing of a marine vehicle drive unit has an annular body (20) and a cylindrical active part intended to provide a sliding contact function with another ring at the bearing level. The cylindrical part is segmented into several cylindrical surfaces, each cylindrical surface being attached in a removable manner to the annular body (20).

IPC Classes  ?

• F16C 17/02 - Sliding-contact bearings for exclusively rotary movement for radial load only
• F16C 33/04 - Brasses; Bushes; Linings
• F16C 43/02 - Assembling sliding-contact bearings
• F16C 33/26 - Brasses; Bushes; Linings made from a number of discs, rings, rods, or other members
• B63H 23/32 - Other parts
• F16C 17/10 - Sliding-contact bearings for exclusively rotary movement for both radial and axial load
• F16C 33/10 - Construction relative to lubrication

Abstract

This power system for mounting on a marine vehicle (2) includes a propulsion unit (14), means for securing the propulsion assembly to a hull element (4) of the vehicle (2) and a rudder bearing (58) mechanically connecting the propulsion unit (14) with the fittings. The fittings are configured so that once the power system is mounted on the hull element (4); the plane of the rudder bearing (5 8) is inclined relative to a plane containing one longitudinal axis and one transverse axis of the marine vehicle (2).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 5/125 - Arrangements on vessels of propulsion elements directly acting on water of propellers movably mounted with respect to hull, e.g. adjustable in direction
• F16C 35/04 - Rigid support of bearing units; Housings, e.g. caps, covers in the case of ball or roller bearings
• F16C 19/10 - Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing balls essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows for axial load mainly
• F16C 19/30 - Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for axial load mainly

Abstract

There are provided methods and systems for interfacing converters and solar power arrays. For example, there is provided a method for interfacing a solar power generation apparatus with an electricity grid (116). The method can include connecting a first level (108) and a second level (110) of the solar power generation apparatus to a two-level converter (104). Furthermore, the method can include interfacing the two-level converter 204 with the electricity grid (116) via a four-wire connection.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02M 7/48 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode

Abstract

A dual submodule (18) is created for a modular multilevel converter (8), whereby the dual submodule (18) has two interconnected submodules (19, 21), whereby each submodule has an asymmetrical half-bridge circuit (22, 32) with two parallel bridge branches (24, 26; 34, 36), which arc connected between a first and a second terminal connection (27, 28; 37, 38) of the submodule (19, 21), whereby each bridge branch is formed from a series circuit of a power semiconductor switch (T1, T4; T6, T7), and a diode (D2, D3; D5, D8), whereby the power semiconductor switch is allocated to an antiparallel free-wheeling diode (D1, D4; D6, D7), and has a capacitor (23; 33), which is connected in parallel with the asymmetrical half-bridge circuit ( 22; 32 ) between the first and the second terminal connections of the module. The submodules (19, 21) are connected to each other via their AC terminals (29, 31; 39, 41) to form the dual submodule (18). Further, a modular multilevel converter (8) is created, comprising a number of such dual submodules (18) in each of its converter branches (9a-9f).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/483 - Converters with outputs that each can have more than two voltage levels

Abstract

The electrical power distribution system for supplying an assembly of fixed frequency loads and an assembly of variable frequency loads comprises an assembly of at least one alternating voltage generator (G) at fixed frequency and an assembly of at least one alternating voltage generator (G') at variable frequency, a DC distribution grid (II) supplying said variable frequency loads via inverter stages (10, 11), a first assembly of rectifier stages (6, 7) connected between the fixed frequency generators and the distribution grid and a second assembly of rectifier stages (12, 24, 25) connected between the variable frequency generators (G') and the distribution grid. The first set of rectifier stages comprises bidirectional rectifiers capable of ensuring a bidirectional transfer of power and protection means (14, 15) against fault currents connected between the bidirectional rectifiers and the distribution grid.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 4/00 - Circuit arrangements for mains or distribution networks not specified as ac or dc
• H02J 5/00 - Circuit arrangements for transfer of electric power between ac networks and dc networks
• H02J 3/46 - Controlling the sharing of output between the generators, converters, or transformers

Abstract

Systems and methods include a channel (114) through an upper endshield (50) that directs an air stream to cool bearings (30), lubricant, and electrical originated heat.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 5/15 - Mounting arrangements for bearing-shields or end plates
• H02K 9/06 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by ambient air flowing through the machine having means for generating a flow of cooling medium with fans or impellers driven by the machine shaft
• H02K 9/04 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by ambient air flowing through the machine having means for generating a flow of cooling medium
• H02K 5/173 - Means for supporting bearings, e.g. insulating supports or means for fitting bearings in the bearing-shields using bearings with rolling contact, e.g. ball bearings

Abstract

Provided is a fault isolation apparatus for an inverter (102) configured for coupling to an external power supply (106). The apparatus includes a plurality of fault detection devices (104a, 104b). Each fault detection device is configured to complete an electrical path between the inverter (102) and the external power supply and to detect a fault along its respective electrical path. The apparatus also includes a controller (122) configured to instruct the fault detection devices (104a, 104b) to complete its respective electrical path only when the path is devoid of the detected fault.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02H 3/06 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection - Details with automatic reconnection
• G01R 31/02 - Testing of electric apparatus, lines, or components for short-circuits, discontinuities, leakage, or incorrect line connection
• H02H 3/16 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to fault current to earth, frame or mass
• H02H 7/122 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for rectifiers for static converters or rectifiers for inverters, i.e. dc/ac converters
• H02H 7/20 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a cover (10) to enclose a longitudinal section (11) of at least one electrical conductor (12, 13) and prevent the formation of an arc or a flashover. The cover (10) has at least two cover parts (18) made of an electrically insulating material. A first cover part (18a) and a second cover part (18b) each have at least one passage opening (23). Each passage opening (23) has an electrical conductor (12, 13) guided through it, so that no gap opening (29), or only a small gap opening (29) remains between the outside surface (28) of the conductor (12, 13) and a bordering wall (24) of the passage opening (23). Moreover, the cover (10) has at least one connection location (40, 41). At this connection location, two of the cover parts that are present (18a, 18c or 18a, 18c or 18a, 18b) lie against one another in a force-fit and/or positive- fit manner and form a nondestructively detachable connection. This ensures accessibility to the protected longitudinal section (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01R 4/70 - Insulation of connections
• H01R 13/52 - Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
• H02G 15/115 - Boxes split perpendicularly to main cable direction
• H02G 5/02 - Open installations

Abstract

A compact stacked power module (10) is described. The module (10) includes a negative direct-current-bus-voltage plate (110) having a negative-plate surface (112) and a positive direct-current-bus-voltage plate (120) having a positive-plate surface (122). The module (10) also includes an alternating-current output plate (100) having opposing first and second output-plate surfaces (102, 104), a first semiconductor switch (150) contacting the negative-plate surface (112) and the first output-plate surface (102), and a second semiconductor switch (160) contacting the positive-plate surface (122) and the second output-plate surface (104). The module (10) further includes a capacitor (130) contacting the negative-plate surface (112) and the positive-plate surface (122). The capacitor (130) is electrically connected in parallel with the first and second semiconductor switches (150, 160).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 23/495 - Lead-frames
• H01L 25/07 - Assemblies consisting of a plurality of individual semiconductor or other solid state devices all the devices being of a type provided for in the same subgroup of groups , or in a single subclass of , , e.g. assemblies of rectifier diodes the devices not having separate containers the devices being of a type provided for in group
• H01L 25/16 - Assemblies consisting of a plurality of individual semiconductor or other solid state devices the devices being of types provided for in two or more different main groups of groups , or in a single subclass of , , e.g. forming hybrid circuits
• H01L 23/50 - Arrangements for conducting electric current to or from the solid state body in operation, e.g. leads or terminal arrangements for integrated circuit devices
• H01L 23/44 - Arrangements for cooling, heating, ventilating or temperature compensation the complete device being wholly immersed in a fluid other than air

Abstract

The invention provides an apparatus for controlling a multi-phase converter (10) having at least one power channel (11) with a plurality of power modules (PMA, PMB, PMC). The apparatus comprises logic, at least partially comprising hardware configured to: detect the voltage and the current of the power modules (PMA, PMB, PMC); calculate a command voltage based on a product of a programmed virtual resistance and the detected current; and transmit a command voltage signal to the power modules (PMA, PMB, PMC) based on the calculated command voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/12 - Conversion of ac power input into dc power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode
• H02M 1/12 - Arrangements for reducing harmonics from ac input or output
• H02M 7/483 - Converters with outputs that each can have more than two voltage levels
• H02M 7/493 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode the static converters being arranged for operation in parallel

Abstract

Provided is a method for controlling operation of semiconductor gates in a power conversion system including one or more multilevel inverters coupleable to a modulator and a controller. The method includes generating, via the controller, a control signal responsive to an output current power factor associated with the inverters and producing a discontinuous pulse width modulation reference signal based upon the control signal and a target output power, the discontinuous pulse width modulation reference signal being indicative of shifting a phase angle between current and voltage. A gating signal is generated for output from the modulator, as a function of the reference signal and a carrier waveform. The gating signal adjusts the phase angle to prevent switching of the semiconductor gates.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/487 - Neutral point clamped inverters
• H02M 7/5387 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters in a bridge configuration
• H02M 7/5395 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters with automatic control of output wave form or frequency by pulse-width modulation

Abstract

A power switch apparatus (21) for a power converter (6, 7) is disclosed, which com- prises a semiconductor power switch (33) and a gate drive unit (28, 29) connected to the sem- iconductor power switch (33) for supplying gate drive signals (Vg) to the semiconductor power switch (33) to switch it on and off to cause the power converter (6, 7) to generate an alternating current (AC) voltage (V AC ) having a nominal operational frequency (f) based on command signals (58) received from a controller (31). The gate drive unit (28, 29) is config- ured to receive command signals (58) based on the AC voltage (V AC ) of the nominal opera- tional frequency (f) to be generated and to alter the switching events of the semiconductor power switch (33) by addition of a pre-defined jitter-like deviation to the gate drive signals (Vg) such as to cause the power converter (6, 7) to generate an AC voltage (V AC * ) having a modified operational frequency (f * ) which at least partly and temporarily deviates from the nominal operational frequency (f) by at least a pre-defined minimum percentage. This pre- vents the power switch apparatus (21) from being misused for military and other undesired applications which it was originally not designed for and which require high frequency gener- ation with high accuracy. A power converter (6, 7) comprising such a power switch apparatus (21) is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/08 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters

Abstract

The invention relates to a two-way power-conversion system for a single-phase electrical load, which is intended for being connected to a DC power supply bus that supplies a single DC power supply voltage and for supplying the load with a substantially square AC output voltage (Vac). Said system includes a set of interlaced converters capable of collectively supplying a control voltage (Uac) of which the phase shift of the fundamental component thereof relative to the output voltage is intended for controlling the power transfer between the converters and the load, said converters being controlled such that the amplitude of the average value of the control voltage (Uac) corresponds to the amplitude of the AC output voltage and such that said control voltage has amplitudes capable of reducing the fluctuations of a current flowing between the voltage converters and the load.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/12 - Arrangements for reducing harmonics from ac input or output
• H02M 7/493 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode the static converters being arranged for operation in parallel
• H02M 7/5387 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters in a bridge configuration
• H02M 1/00 - APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF - Details of apparatus for conversion

Abstract

An optimized structure of an arm capacitor voltage balance controller based on chain links of the H-bridge module that achieves enhanced performance of an arm capacitor voltage balance control in all operational conditions, even with highly dynamic loads. Such a controller has application in three-phase STATCOM converters, and may be structured so as to seamlessly integrate feedforward and feedback controls with inverse maps used for calculation of the zero sequence reference voltage injection(s) (for star and delta STATCOM topologies). The controller comprises logic, at least partially comprising hardware configured to: (i) detect the voltages and currents of the converter, (ii) decompose the detected voltages and the detected currents into symmetrical components, (iii) perform feed-forward calculations of a power imbalance space vector using the symmetrical components, (iv) perform feedback balancing of arm dc bus voltages, (v) calculate at least one of a zero sequence reference voltage and a zero sequence reference current based on a universal inverse map developed between components of the power imbalance space vector and the symmetrical components, and (vi) inject a zero sequence reference signal to the three-phase arms based on the calculated at least one of the zero sequence reference voltage and the zero sequence reference current.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/18 - Arrangements for adjusting, eliminating or compensating reactive power in networks
• H02M 1/42 - Circuits or arrangements for compensating for or adjusting power factor in converters or inverters
• H02M 7/483 - Converters with outputs that each can have more than two voltage levels

Abstract

The invention relates to a supply system for a plurality of loads connected in parallel to a direct current (DC) supply bus. The supply system includes a DC supply bus (DC BUS) and a plurality of supply lines (L1, L2) connected in parallel to the supply bus and supplying the said loads. The supply system includes uncoupling and damping means that is adapted to decrease the unipolar signals travelling within the supply system while the loads are being supplied. The uncoupling and damping means includes at least one inductance (Lh) arranged in series in at least one of the supply lines. Protective means (5, 6, 7) are also provided for protection in the event of a fault.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 1/10 - Parallel operation of dc sources
• H02H 7/26 - Sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, e.g. for disconnecting a section on which a short-circuit, earth fault, or arc discharge has occurred
• H02J 3/36 - Arrangements for transfer of electric power between ac networks via a high-tension dc link

Abstract

The invention provides a control apparatus and a control method for large power converters (11) having a large number of power cells (22) which contain power semiconductor switching elements (T1-T4), receive the commands from a central control unit (35) and transmit information to the central control unit (35). The control apparatus (34) has at least one multiplexer/demultiplexer (MDM) device (36, 37) having an uplink connection (49, 49') for the communication connection to the central control unit (35), a plurality of downlink connections (51, 51') for the direct connection to a communication interface (39) of an associated power cell (22) and a communication control and management module (52, 52'). The communication control and management module (52, 52') is set up to extract information relating to respective downstream power cells (22) from a transmission frame (53) received from the central control unit (35) via the uplink connection (49, 49') and to supply said information to the particular downlink connection (51, 51') for the relevant power cell (22) and to insert feedback information received from respective power cells (22) into a receiving frame (56) and to transmit said frame to the central control unit (35) via the uplink connection (49, 49').

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/483 - Converters with outputs that each can have more than two voltage levels

Abstract

A modular multipoint power converter (8) for converting an A.C. voltage into D.C. voltage or vice versa, and a method for operating the multipoint power converter are created. The multipoint power converter has a plurality of converter arms (9a-f), wherein two converter arms (9a-b, 9c-d, 9e-f) are each connected to one another in order to create a phase leg (11a-c) of the power converter (8). Each converter arm has a number of similar submodules (14), which are each configured by an H-bridge circuit (18) with power semiconductor switches. The branch currents through the converter arms (9a-f) are controlled or regulated during operation by increasing the DC component of the branch current or of the intermediate circuit direct current (Idc) such that one current having a single polarity, preferably a continuous unipolar sinusoidal current, flows through the converter arms (9a-f). As a result, with the same number of submodules (14) per converter arm (9a-f), the transmissible power can be increased, or the power semiconductor components can be better exploited or, with a constant transmissible power, the number of submodules (14) can be reduced.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/483 - Converters with outputs that each can have more than two voltage levels

Abstract

A power distribution system (1") is described. The power distribution system (1 ") comprises a plurality of power converter systems (21-24) electrically connected to a distribution bus (5) which defines a point of common coupling. Each power converter system (21-24) includes a power converter (31 -34) with a plurality of semiconductor switching devices controlled using a PWM strategy with a switching frequency. A controller (121-124) for each power converter system (21-24) is provided. Each controller ( 121-124) is adapted to apply a spectrum analysis process to the respective power converter system that uses measured or derived zero sequence currents associated with the respective power converter system to determine the location of a ground fault within the power distribution system. Each controller (121-124) is adapted to apply a switching frequency process where the switching frequency of the power converter of at least one of the power converter systems is different from the switching frequency of the power converter of at least another one of the power converter systems during at least part of the time that the spectrum analysis process is applied.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02H 3/16 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to fault current to earth, frame or mass
• G01R 31/02 - Testing of electric apparatus, lines, or components for short-circuits, discontinuities, leakage, or incorrect line connection
• H02H 7/26 - Sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, e.g. for disconnecting a section on which a short-circuit, earth fault, or arc discharge has occurred

Abstract

A power distribution system (30) having one or more phases is described. The power distribution system (30) has a power converter (46) with a plurality of semiconductor switching devices per phase, a PWM controller (52), and a current limitation controller (58). The current limitation controller (58) is adapted, at least when a short-circuit fault is detected, to calculate the difference between a measured current (la, lb, Ic) for each phase and a reference current (Ia_max, Ib_max, Ic_max) for the corresponding phase. If the calculated difference is located outside a predetermined current range centred about the reference current (Ia_max, Ib_max, Ic_max) for the corresponding phase, the current limitation controller (58) will allow the semiconductor switching devices of the corresponding phase to be turned on and off by the PWM controller (52). Otherwise, if the calculated difference is located inside the predetermined current range, the current limitation controller (58) will control the semiconductor switching devices for the corresponding phase to be turned off irrespective of the PWM control strategy applied by the PWM controller (58).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/32 - Means for protecting converters other than by automatic disconnection
• H02H 7/26 - Sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, e.g. for disconnecting a section on which a short-circuit, earth fault, or arc discharge has occurred
• H02H 9/02 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for limiting excess current or voltage without disconnection responsive to excess current
• H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks
• H02M 5/458 - Conversion of ac power input into ac power output, e.g. for change of voltage, for change of frequency, for change of number of phases with intermediate conversion into dc by static converters using discharge tubes or semiconductor devices to convert the intermediate dc into ac using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only

Abstract

The invention relates to a tight enclosure for the undersea housing of equipment, comprising an assembly of ellipsoidal modules (2, 3, 4) adjacently arranged in a tight manner and internally defining at least a space for receiving the equipment.

IPC Classes  ?

• F04D 13/08 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven for submerged use
• B63B 3/13 - Hulls built to withstand hydrostatic pressure when fully submerged, e.g. submarine hulls
• F04D 25/06 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven

Abstract

The disclosed rotor for an asynchronous motor extends along the axis of rotation and includes a squirrel cage. Said squirrel cage is formed by conductive bars (28) comprising first and second end portions (30, 32) as well as first and second crowns (24, 26). Each conductive bar (28) is connected to the crown (24, 26) by at least one first (36) or one second (38) connection means. The at least one connection means (36, 38) comprises a plurality of electrically conductive flexible blades (50).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors
• H02K 15/04 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of windings, prior to mounting into machines

Abstract

The invention relates to a cradle (8) for an electrical machine, comprising a frame (36) defining a housing for receiving part of the machine (6) and extending vertically and comprising a lower edge (46) and an upper edge (48), the lower edge (46) to be connected to a support (4). The upper edge (48) comprises one or two receiving housings (56A; 56B) for receiving a respective bearing (16A; 16B), said housings of the upper edge comprising a bottom wall (58) and two side walls (60).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/18 - Means for mounting or fastening magnetic stationary parts on to, or to, the stator structures
• H02K 5/04 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof
• H02K 5/16 - Means for supporting bearings, e.g. insulating supports or means for fitting bearings in the bearing-shields
• H02K 5/24 - Casings; Enclosures; Supports specially adapted for suppression or reduction of noise or vibrations

Abstract

Said magnetic mass (23) for a rotor of an electric machine movable about an axis of rotation (Χ-Χ') extends along the axis of rotation (Χ-Χ') and comprises: - a plurality of first longitudinal through-holes, each first longitudinal hole being suitable for receiving a first respective tie-rod (29) and being at a first distance relative to the axis of rotation (Χ-Χ'), in a radial direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation (Χ-Χ'), - a plurality of first tie-rods (29), each first tie-rod (29) being received in a first respective longitudinal hole. The magnetic mass (23) further comprises: - at least one second longitudinal through-hole, the or each second longitudinal hole being suitable for receiving a second respective tie-rod (30) and being at a second distance relative to the axis of rotation (Χ-Χ') along a radial direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation (Χ-Χ'), the second distance being different from the first distance, and - at least one second tie-rod (30), the or each second tie-rod (30) being received in a second respective longitudinal hole.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/28 - Means for mounting or fastening rotating magnetic parts on to, or to, the rotor structures
• H02K 15/00 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors

Abstract

Provided is an overvoltage protection device for protecting a wind turbine against overvoltage. The device includes a double fed induction generator (DFIG) including a rotor connection including a plurality of electrical connections coupled to rotor leads of the DFIG and a stator connection including a plurality of electrical connections coupled to stator leads of the DFIG. Also included is a self-triggering circuit coupled with the rotor connection and operative in response to changes in a utility grid voltage during a grid fault when an overvoltage event is detected such that the overvoltage protection circuit automatically operates, independently of a controller or a sensor, to reduce the detected overvoltage to a predetermined voltage level.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02P 9/10 - Control effected upon generator excitation circuit to reduce harmful effects of overloads or transients, e.g. sudden application of load, sudden removal of load, sudden change of load

Abstract

Provided is a system for regulating energy provided to an electricity grid (102) from an energy source, the system includes a converter (106) configured to receive the energy from the source. The converter (106) is configured to dynamically predict real-time maximum reactive power capability as a function of at least one from the group including (i) a direct current link maximum voltage, (ii) an instantaneous grid network voltage, and (iii) a line current. The predicted maximum reactive power capability is configured for optimizing regulation of the energy.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/18 - Arrangements for adjusting, eliminating or compensating reactive power in networks

Abstract

A method of automatically electrically isolating a source of current of a first type from a load on a periodic basis comprising a plurality of intervals that employs a power converter portion structured to convert current of the first type to current of a second type, a first selectively operable electrical isolation device structured to provide selective electrical isolation between the source and the power converter portion, and a second selectively operable electrical isolation device structured to provide selective electrical isolation between the power converter portion and the load. The method includes, for each of the intervals: (i) determining, based on a predetermined schedule, which one of the first selectively operable electrical isolation device and the second selectively operable electrical isolation is to be a scheduled isolation device for the interval, and (ii) causing the determined scheduled isolation device to move to an electrically isolating condition during the interval.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks

Abstract

The present invention relates to a power electronic device (1). The device includes a device unit (2) that is located axially between first and second pole pieces (4, 6). A contact pressure adjusting means (8) is located axially between the first and second pole pieces (4, 6). In one arrangement the contact pressure adjusting means (8) includes a support member (10), a pair of disc type springs (16) positioned on the support member (10), and an insulating member (18) positioned around the device unit (2) between the compressible member (16) and the first pole piece (4). An overall contact compression force is applied to the power electronic device (1) by an external contact pressure means forming part of a stack assembly. The compressible member (16) can be compressed until an inner contact member (12) of the support member (10) is in contact with a first surface (2b) of the device unit (2). The contact pressure adjusting means (8) of the power electronic device (1) then applies a device-specific contact compression force to the device unit (2) that is lower than the overall contact compression force applied by the external contact pressure means.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 25/11 - Assemblies consisting of a plurality of individual semiconductor or other solid state devices all the devices being of a type provided for in the same subgroup of groups , or in a single subclass of , , e.g. assemblies of rectifier diodes the devices having separate containers the devices being of a type provided for in group
• H01L 23/043 - Containers; Seals characterised by the shape the container being a hollow construction and having a conductive base as a mounting as well as a lead for the semiconductor body
• H01L 23/051 - Containers; Seals characterised by the shape the container being a hollow construction and having a conductive base as a mounting as well as a lead for the semiconductor body another lead being formed by a cover plate parallel to the base plate, e.g. sandwich type
• H01L 23/44 - Arrangements for cooling, heating, ventilating or temperature compensation the complete device being wholly immersed in a fluid other than air

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vacuum switch assembly (1) for interrupting and isolating fault current. The vacuum switch assembly includes first and second dc lines (2a, 2b) that, in use, are electrically connected to the dc output terminals of a primary dc power source (40) and a dc network (18). Each dc line (2a, 2b) includes at least one vacuum switch (4a, 4b) having contacts that are opened and closed under the control of a vacuum switch controller (10). A passive dc power supply unit (30) is electrically connected to the first and second dc lines (2a, 2b) and includes a secondary dc power source (32) that provides a substantially ripple-free sensing voltage. The vacuum switch controller (10) is adapted to open the vacuum switch contacts when a fault condition (e.g. a fault current or other fault) or an operator request has been identified and when the current flowing between the vacuum switch contacts is below a chopping current associated with the vacuum switches (4a, 4b).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01H 33/59 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switch and not otherwise provided for, e.g. for ensuring operation of the switch at a predetermined point in the ac cycle
• H01H 33/666 - Operating arrangements
• H01H 33/00 - High-tension or heavy-current switches with arc-extinguishing or arc-preventing means

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for magnetizing a permanent magnet pole of an electric machine that includes a rotor (10) and a modular stator (20) having one or more spaces (22a to 221) accommodating removable stator contacts, the rotor including a plurality of permanent-magnet poles (12a to 12j), wherein the method includes the following steps: setting up the electrical machine with a predetermined number of free spaces (22a, 22b) free of stator contacts; arranging an electromagnetic device (52) of a magnetizer (50) in one of the free spaces (22a); using the magnetizer (52), magnetizing at least one of the permanent-magnet poles (12) to be magnetized and already supported by the rotor (10); removing the electromagnetic device (52) of the magnetizer (50); and mounting the stator contact(s) in the free space(s) (22a, 22b). The invention further relates to an electric machine (1) including a rotor (10) and a modular stator (20), the rotor including a plurality of permanent-magnet poles (12a to 12j), and the modular stator including one or more spaces (22a to 22l) for accommodating removable stator contacts, an electromagnetic device (52) of a magnetizer (50) being arranged in at least one of the spaces (22a) freed of a stator contact.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 15/00 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 15/03 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of stator or rotor bodies having permanent magnets

Abstract

The invention relates to a fuse assembly (1) for interrupting fault current in an external dc circuit. The fuse assembly (1) includes fusible conductor elements (6a...6d) that extend substantially along, and are circumferentially around, a longitudinal axis of the fuse assembly. The fusible conductor elements (6a...6d) are connected together in series to define fuse elements (18, 24) and the fusible conductor elements (6a...6d) are orientated within the fuse assembly (1) such that current flowing along each fusible conductor element is in the opposite direction to current flowing along the fusible conductor element or fusible conductor elements adjacent to it. This creates a mutually repulsive force between the fusible conductor elements (6a...6d). The fuse assembly (1) also includes a first supply terminal (10a) connected to an end of a first fuse element (18) and connectible to a dc supply, a first load terminal (10b) connected to an opposite end of the first fuse element (18) and connectible to an electrical load, a second supply terminal (10d) connected to an end of a second fuse element (24) and connectible to the dc supply, and a second load terminal (10c) connected to an opposite end of the second fuse element (24) and connectable to the electrical load.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01H 85/02 - Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive - Details

Abstract

This set of rolling bearings, which is a grounding bearing for a rotary machine, comprises a first-angular contact rolling bearing (16) having a first outer race (30), a first inner race (32) and first rolling elements (34), a second angular-contact rolling bearing (18) having a second outer race (36), a second inner race (38) and second rolling elements (40), a mount (20) in which the first angular-contact rolling bearing and the second angular-contact rolling bearing are mounted. The first outer race and the second outer race are arranged in the mount either directly one beside the other or via the interposition of an intermediate member, the axial stiffness of which is greater than that of the mount (20) and than those of the first and second outer races. Application for example to asynchronous motors.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16C 27/04 - Ball or roller bearings, e.g. with resilient rolling bodies
• F16C 39/02 - Relieving load on bearings using mechanical means
• F16C 32/04 - Bearings not otherwise provided for using magnetic or electric supporting means

Abstract

The present invention provides condition monitoring of an anti-vibration mount, e.g. a sandwich mount (2a) in which a plurality of elastomeric layers are interleaved with rigid plates. A set of effectiveness data is determined using input and output data measured or derived over a period of time. The effectiveness data is indicative of the effectiveness of the anti-vibration mount (2a), and in particular is dynamic stiffness. The input data is indicative of the amplitude of input vibrations that are applied to the anti-vibration mount (e.g. from associated apparatus or equipment (1) to which the mount (2a) is secured) and the output data is indicative of the amplitude of corresponding output vibrations of the anti-vibration mount (e.g. the vibrations that are transferred into an external support frame (12) of the associated apparatus or equipment). The operating condition of the anti-vibration mount (2a) is monitored using the set of effectiveness data, e.g. by comparing successive sets of effectiveness data determined using input and output data collected over different time periods.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01H 17/00 - Measuring mechanical vibrations or ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves, not provided for in the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

This marine turbine comprises a stator (12), a rotor (14), the rotor (14) being able to be driven in rotation about an axis of rotation (X) by a stream of a liquid, and at least one first bearing (20A, 20B) for supporting the rotor (14), the or each first bearing (20A, 20B, comprising a magnetic stator element (46A, 46B) secured to the stator (12) and a magnetic rotor element (48A, 48B) secured to the rotor (14). The marine turbine further comprises at least one second bearing (22A, 22B) for supporting the rotor (14), the or each second bearing (22A, 22B) comprising at least one rolling element (50).

IPC Classes  ?

• F03B 11/06 - Bearing arrangements
• F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
• F03B 13/26 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using tide energy
• F03B 17/06 - Other machines or engines using liquid flow, e.g. of swinging-flap type
• F03D 11/00 - Details, component parts, or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

This electric motor comprises a stator (12) and a rotor (14) able to turn at a rate of rotation of greater than 8000 revolutions per minute, said rotor (14) comprises a magnetic body (18) carried by a rotation shaft (19), the magnetic body (18) delimiting an external lateral surface (20). The motor comprises a protective cladding (28) on the exterior lateral surface (20) of the magnetic body (18).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 5/12 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof specially adapted for operating in liquid or gas
• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors

Abstract

A gearless drive for a rotating electrical machine comprises a rotor (12) in the form of a hollow rotatable body (10) and having an axis of rotation and a stator (14) surrounding the rotor (12). A plurality of pole bodies (16) are independently mounted circumferentially around the rotor (12) by a pole mounting arrangement (18). The stiffness of the pole mounting arrangement (18) in the radial direction is greater than the stiffness of the pole mounting arrangement (18) in the circumferential direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/30 - Means for mounting or fastening rotating magnetic parts on to, or to, the rotor structures using intermediate parts, e.g. spiders
• H02K 7/14 - Structural association with mechanical loads, e.g. with hand-held machine tools or fans
• B02C 17/24 - Driving mechanisms

Abstract

This electric machine, notably a motor (2), comprises a stator (6), a rotor (8), a first main bearing (12), designed to support the rotor (8) with respect to the stator (6) in a main range of speeds, and a first secondary bearing (16) designed to support the rotor with respect to the stator when the first main bearing fails. The or each secondary bearing (16) is a passive electrodynamic bearing comprising at least one permanent magnet and a mobile electrically conducting element. Application to electric machines, notably to asynchronous or synchronous motors.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16C 32/04 - Bearings not otherwise provided for using magnetic or electric supporting means
• H02K 7/09 - Structural association with bearings with magnetic bearings

Abstract

The invention relates to a blade (24) for a water current turbine rotor, which extends along a radial direction (R) and comprises an upper surface (EXT), a lower surface (INT), a leading edge (36), and a trailing edge (38). The leading edge (36) is the edge of the blade (24) that extends substantially along the radial direction (R) and is disposed upstream in the direction in which the water flows along the blade (24), while the trailing edge (38) is the edge of the blade (24) opposite the leading edge (36) and is disposed downstream in the direction of flow. Viewed in cross-section along a cutting plane (P), at least one portion of the blade (24) has a profile (40) comprising a thick portion (42) and a thin portion (44), the cutting plane (P) being perpendicular to the radial direction (R). The thick portion (42) and the thin portion (44) each have a maximum thickness (E1, E2) along a direction perpendicular to the upper surface (EXT), the maximum thickness (E1) of the thick portion (42) being at least four times greater than the maximum thickness (E2) of the thin portion (44). The curvilinear length (L2) of the thin portion (44) is between 0.1 times the length (C) of the chord (46) between the leading edge (36) and the trailing edge (38) and 0.9 times the length (C) of the chord (46), preferably between 0.25 times the length (C) of the chord (46) and 0.9 times the length (C) of said chord (46).

IPC Classes  ?

• F03B 17/06 - Other machines or engines using liquid flow, e.g. of swinging-flap type
• F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric machine, comprising: a set of at least six windings; voltage supply devices capable of supplying an electrical phase; a circuit for controlling the voltage supply devices controlling phase shifts between the phases supplied by the voltage supply devices, each voltage supply device (40, 42, 44, 48, 50, 52) supplying a phase at the end common to two windings (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22), the other end of the two windings (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22) being supplied by one of the two voltage supply devices (40, 42, 44, 48, 50, 52) supplying a phase of which the phase shift with the phase supplied by the voltage supply device (40, 42, 44, 48, 50, 52) is one of the two lowest, in terms of absolute value, among the phase shifts supplied by the voltage supply devices and the phase supplied by the voltage supply device (40, 42, 44, 48, 50, 52).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 17/12 - Asynchronous induction motors for multi-phase current
• H02K 19/10 - Synchronous motors for multi-phase current
• H02P 25/22 - Multiple windings; Windings for more than three phases
• H02P 29/02 - Providing protection against overload without automatic interruption of supply

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotor for a water current turbine, which can be rotated by a stream of liquid. The rotor comprises an inner ring, an outer ring and at least one blade (24) that extends between the inner ring and the outer ring along a radial direction (R), said inner and outer rings being centred on a single longitudinal axis (X). The rotor comprises at least one radial shaft (26) extending radially between the inner ring and the outer ring, and at least one blade (24) can rotate about its corresponding radial shaft (26). The rotor (14) also comprises means (28) for limiting the rotational movement of said at least one blade (24) about its corresponding radial shaft (26).

IPC Classes  ?

• F03B 3/14 - Rotors having adjustable blades

Abstract

Disclosed is an electric machine comprising two rotors and at least two bearings, a single one of which is arranged between the two rotors, along the axis of rotation. Said electric machine (10) comprises: - at least one stator (14, 18), - a shaft (22) rotatable about an axis of rotation (X), - two separate rotors (16, 20), each one secured to the shaft (22), - three bearings (24, 26, 28) for supporting the two rotors (16, 20) and the shaft (22). A single bearing (28) is arranged between the two rotors (16, 20), along the axis of rotation (X).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 16/02 - Machines with one stator and two rotors
• H02K 5/16 - Means for supporting bearings, e.g. insulating supports or means for fitting bearings in the bearing-shields
• H02K 16/00 - Machines with more than one rotor or stator

Abstract

This rotor (8) extends along an axis of rotation X-X, and comprises a short-circuit cage (14) having at least one shorting bar (20) and at least one first electrical and mechanical short-circuit ring (16), each bar having a first end portion (24), said first end portion (24) being connected to the first short-circuit ring (16) mechanically and electrically by a connecting means (30). The connecting means (30) is a form-fit connection holding the end portion (24, 26) relative to the associated short-circuit ring (16, 18) in a holding direction (S) which extends radially relative to the axis of rotation. When the rotor is not turning about the axis of rotation of same, the connecting means (30) prestresses the end portion (24, 26) in a prestress direction (P) having a radial component relative to the axis of rotation, which is particularly directed radially relative to the axis of rotation. Application to the rotors of asynchronous motors.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 15/00 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 17/16 - Asynchronous induction motors having rotors with internally short-circuited windings, e.g. cage rotors

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coil support member (1) and a method of manufacturing the same in which a thermosetting or thermoplastic material is introduced into a mould cavity and hardened. One or more components (12, 14) are positioned within the mould cavity during the manufacturing process before the thermosetting or thermoplastic material is introduced. These components are then embedded in the thermosetting or thermoplastic material and form an integral part of the coil support member (1). One or more functional filler materials are added to the thermosetting or thermoplastic material to improve the thermal matching between the integral components and the thermosetting or thermoplastic material.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 39/00 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor
• B29C 39/02 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
• B29C 39/10 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressure; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. casting around inserts or for coating articles
• B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
• B29C 45/14 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
• B29C 45/16 - Making multilayered or multicoloured articles
• B29L 9/00 - Layered products
• B29K 63/00 - Use of epoxy resins as moulding material
• B29K 105/16 - Fillers
• B29K 105/20 - Inserts
• B29C 43/00 - Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor
• B29C 43/14 - Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor of articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles in several steps
• B29C 43/18 - Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding material; Apparatus therefor of articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. compression moulding around inserts or for coating articles
• B29C 70/58 - Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising fillers only
• B29C 70/68 - Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers
• B29C 70/72 - Encapsulating inserts having non-encapsulated projections, e.g. extremities or terminal portions of electrical components
• G01R 33/3815 - Systems for generation, homogenisation or stabilisation of the main or gradient magnetic field using electromagnets with superconducting coils, e.g. power supply therefor
• H01F 6/06 - Coils, e.g. winding, insulating, terminating or casing arrangements therefor

Abstract

The present invention provides a method of controlling a combined plant to provide frequency support to a power grid operating at a variable grid frequency. The combined plant includes at least one generator (e.g. a plurality of wind turbine generators) and an energy store (12). The combined plant is adapted to supply power to the power grid. The method includes the steps of charging the energy store (12) at less than its rated power when frequency support is not needed. When frequency support is needed the combined plant is controlled to increase or decrease the overall power that it supplies to the power grid to provide frequency support. The control of the combined plant can be designed to maximise frequency support revenues.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/28 - Arrangements for balancing the load in a network by storage of energy
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for converting a first electric voltage into a second electric voltage, comprising: at least two input terminals and two output terminals; and switching members (16) disposed between the input and output terminals, which can convert the first voltage into the second voltage. At least one switching member (16) comprises at least two arms (26) connected in parallel and each arm includes an electronic switch (34) that can be controlled such as to occupy either an on-state or an off-state, said switch comprising a control electrode (36) and two conduction electrodes (38, 40) that conduct current in the on-state. The switching member (16) comprises a common control terminal (28) connected to the control electrode (36) of the switch of each arm, as well as a first common conduction terminal (30) and a second common conduction terminal (32) connected respectively to a first conduction electrode (38) and a second conduction electrode (40) of the switch (34) of each of the arms. The switching member (16) also comprises, for each arm, an inductance (42) connected between the same single electrode from the two conduction electrodes (38, 40) and the corresponding common conduction terminal (30, 32), and the inductance (42) is greater than 10 nH and substantially identical for each arm.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/088 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters for the simultaneous control of series or parallel connected semiconductor devices

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for converting a first electric voltage into a second electric voltage, comprising: at least two input terminals and two output terminals; switching members (16) disposed between the input and output terminals, which can convert the first voltage into the second voltage; and a device (24) for controlling the switching members, said control device (24) comprising a cell (34) for controlling a switching member (16) and a member (36) for managing and supplying the control cell (34), said management and supply member being connected to the control cell by means of a link (38) allowing the simultaneous transmission of a control signal and electrical energy. The management and supply member (36) comprises means for generating a pulse comprising at least two different control intervals. During the second control interval, the pulse has a substantially constant value that is different from a reference value corresponding to the absence of control commands, the value of the pulse being different from one control interval to the other and, during the first control interval, the pulse has a value strictly greater than the value during the second control interval.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 1/088 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters for the simultaneous control of series or parallel connected semiconductor devices
• H03K 17/0412 - Modifications for accelerating switching without feedback from the output circuit to the control circuit by measures taken in the control circuit

Abstract

A bus bar assembly includes a first main conductor, a second main conductor, and an insulator member provided between the main conductors. The insulator member includes: (i) an insulator component, (ii) a first conductor layer provided on the top surface of the insulator component, and (iii) a second conductor layer provided on the bottom surface of the insulator component, wherein the first conductor layer includes an outer edge around a perimeter thereof, wherein the outer edge is located at least a certain distance from the outer edge around the perimeter of the insulator component, wherein the second conductor layer includes an outer edge around a perimeter thereof, wherein the outer edge is located at least the same certain distance from the outer edge of the insulator component, and wherein the certain distance is sufficient to cause the bus bar assembly to satisfy the creepage requirement of the assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02G 5/00 - Installations of bus-bars

Abstract

A method of driving a number of series connected active power semiconductor groups, wherein each of the active power semiconductor groups includes one or more gate oxide-isolated active power semiconductor devices. The method includes generating a current pulse, providing the current pulse to a primary portion of a transformer unit and in response thereto causing a number of reflected current pulses to be reflected at a secondary portion of the transformer unit, and transferring and latching each of the reflected current pulses to create a respective latched gate drive signal, and providing each respective latched gate drive signal to an associated one of the active power semiconductor groups for driving the one or more gate oxide-isolated active power semiconductor devices of the associated one of the active power semiconductor groups. Also, a gate drive circuit that implements the method.

IPC Classes  ?

• H03K 3/00 - Circuits for generating electric pulses; Monostable, bistable or multistable circuits

Abstract

The invention relates to a drive chain (16) comprising an electric machine (18) including a rotor (22) and a stator (20), the stator (20) being connected to an alternating grid (12) and having a stator frequency, and a bidirectional system (24) for converting an alternating current into another alternating current. The conversion system (24) is connected between the grid (12) and the rotor (22), and comprises an ac/dc converter (28) connected to the network (12), an inverter (30) connected between the ac/dc converter (28) and the rotor (22), and a device (32) for controlling switches of the inverter (30) according to a control law. The control law is such that the active power exchanged by the inverter (30) with the rotor (22) is essentially always lower than 0.3 times the nominal power of the direct current specifically circulating between the ac/dc converter and the inverter (30), for the frequencies of a target interval of between 0.6 times the stator frequency and 1.4 times the stator frequency.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02P 9/00 - Arrangements for controlling electric generators for the purpose of obtaining a desired output
• F03D 9/00 - Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
• H02H 7/06 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for synchronous capacitors

Abstract

The invention relates to a drive chain (16) comprising an electric machine (18) including a rotor (22) and a stator (20), the stator (20) being electrically connected to an alternating grid (12) and having a stator frequency, and a bidirectional system (24) for converting an alternating current into another alternating current. The conversion system (24) is connected between the grid (12) and the rotor (22), and comprises an ac/dc converter (34) connected to the network (12), and an inverter (36) connected between the ac/dc converter (34) and the rotor (22), the inverter (36) and the rotor (22) being interconnected at an intermediate point (28) for each phase of the alternating voltage. The drive chain (16) comprises a band-stop filter (26) for a target interval of between 0.6 times the stator frequency (fstator) and 1.4 times the stator frequency, said band-stop filter (26) being connected between the intermediate points (28) and attenuating the voltage at the intermediate point (28) for the frequencies of the target interval.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02P 9/00 - Arrangements for controlling electric generators for the purpose of obtaining a desired output
• H02H 7/06 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for synchronous capacitors
• F03D 9/00 - Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations

Abstract

Control arrangement and method for regulating the output current of a dc source power converter connected to a multi-source dc system A converter control arrangement (18) for regulating the output current of a dc source power converter (16) comprises a current regulator (20) for regulating the output current based on a comparison of an output current value (Iout) of the dc source power converter (16) with a desired target current value (Itgt). When the output voltage value (Vout) of the dc source power converter (16) is within a normal operating voltage range between minimum and maximum voltage values (Vmin, Vmax) defined with respect to a voltage reference value (Vref) of the dc source power converter (16), the converter control arrangement (18) controls the target current value (Itgt) so that it is equal to a desired reference current value (Iref). When the output voltage value (Vout) is outside the normal operating voltage range, which typically indicates a fault condition, the converter control arrangement (18) modulates the reference current value (Iref) to provide a target current value (Itgt) that is less than the reference current value (Iref).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/12 - Conversion of ac power input into dc power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode
• H02M 1/32 - Means for protecting converters other than by automatic disconnection
• H02J 3/36 - Arrangements for transfer of electric power between ac networks via a high-tension dc link
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers

Abstract

A converter control arrangement (18, 48) for regulating the output voltage of a dc source power converter (16) connecting an ac system (6) to a HVDC system to enable dc electrical power to be supplied from the ac system (6) to the HVDC system comprises a dynamic droop control device (26) including first and second droop controllers (30, 32) in which the droop rate of the second droop controller (32) is greater than the droop rate of the first droop controller (30). The converter control arrangement (18, 48) comprises a voltage regulator (20) for regulating the output voltage of the dc source power converter (16) by comparing an output voltage value (Vout) with a target voltage value (Vtgt) derived by combining a reference voltage value (Vref; V''ref) and a droop voltage value (Vdr) provided by the dynamic droop control device (26). The first droop controller (30) controls the droop voltage value (Vdr) when an output current value (Iout) of the dc source power converter (16) is less than a reference current value (Iref). The second droop controller (32) controls the droop voltage value (Vdr) when the output current value (Iout) is greater than the reference current value (Iref). The reference current value (Iref) is the desired output current value (Iout) of the dc source power converter (16) and defines, in combination with the reference voltage value (Vref; V''ref), a target operating point (36).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 3/158 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output without intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load

Abstract

A mechanical arrangement of a multilevel power converter circuit includes a power converter having a first portion with a plurality of first control inputs, at least three direct current voltage inputs, and an alternating current voltage output, and a second portion with a plurality of second control inputs, the at least three direct current voltage inputs and the alternating current voltage output. The second portion is split apart from the first portion. The power converter has at least three levels corresponding to the at least three direct current voltage inputs.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02M 7/00 - Conversion of ac power input into dc power output; Conversion of dc power input into ac power output

Abstract

The present invention provides a high vacuum component, e.g. a vacuum chamber wall (1) or a component that is operated or positioned within a vacuum chamber in use. The component is substantially formed of a layered material comprising a fibrous composite material layer (4) having a surface that is coated with a copper intermediate layer (5) and an impermeable outer layer (6) of nickel. In use the outer layer (6) is exposed to a high vacuum.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01J 3/00 - Processes of utilising sub-atmospheric or super-atmospheric pressure to effect chemical or physical change of matter; Apparatus therefor
• B01J 19/02 - Apparatus characterised by being constructed of material selected for its chemically-resistant properties

Abstract

The present invention provides a system (1) for maintaining a high vacuum in a vacuum enclosure such as cryostat (2), for example. The system includes a high-vacuum pump (3) having an input (6) that is connected to the cryostat (2) and an output (8). A vacuum vessel (4) is connected to the output (8) of the high-vacuum pump (3). A second vacuum pump (5) is connectable to the vacuum vessel (4). The system is operated such that the high-vacuum pump (3) maintains the cryostat (2) at a high vacuum and the second vacuum pump (5) is periodically operated to maintain the pressure of the vacuum vessel (4) below a threshold pressure. The second vacuum pump (5) may be either permanently connected to, or removable from, the vacuum vessel (4). The vacuum vessel (4) acts to maintain the output (8) of the high-vacuum pump (3) within a suitable pressure range. This removes the need for the output of the high-vacuum pump (3) to be connected to a continuously-operating, second-stage vacuum pump. Furthermore, the second vacuum pump (5) is only required to be operated periodically in order to maintain the pressure in the vacuum vessel (4) below the threshold pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F04C 23/00 - Combinations of two or more pumps, each being of rotary-piston or oscillating-piston type, specially adapted for elastic fluids; Pumping installations specially adapted for elastic fluids; Multi-stage pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids
• F04C 29/00 - Component parts, details, or accessories, of pumps or pumping installations specially adapted for elastic fluids, not provided for in groups
• F17C 13/08 - Mounting arrangements for vessels
• F17C 3/08 - Vessels not under pressure with provision for thermal insulation by vacuum spaces, e.g. Dewar flask

Abstract

The present invention provides insulation (1) for a cryogenic component (2). The insulation includes an inner portion (4) formed of a multi-layer insulating material comprising alternating layers of metalized polymer film and polymer netting. An outer supporting mesh (5) surrounds the inner portion (4) and is formed of stainless steel. The insulation (1) is particularly suitable for insulating cryogenic components (2) that move during operation since the supporting mesh (5) acts to support the inner portion (4) against damage caused by forces resulting from motion of the cryogenic component (2).

IPC Classes  ?

• F16L 59/02 - Shape or form of insulating materials, with or without coverings integral with the insulating materials
• F16L 59/14 - Arrangements for the insulation of pipes or pipe systems
• H01B 12/14 - Superconductive or hyperconductive conductors, cables or transmission lines characterised by the disposition of thermal insulation
• H01F 6/06 - Coils, e.g. winding, insulating, terminating or casing arrangements therefor
• H02K 3/32 - Windings characterised by the shape, form or construction of the insulation
• H02K 55/04 - Dynamo-electric machines having windings operating at cryogenic temperatures of the synchronous type with rotating field windings
• F17C 13/00 - VESSELS FOR CONTAINING OR STORING COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES; FIXED-CAPACITY GAS-HOLDERS; FILLING VESSELS WITH, OR DISCHARGING FROM VESSELS, COMPRESSED, LIQUEFIED, OR SOLIDIFIED GASES - Details of vessels or of the filling or discharging of vessels

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of operating a dual fed system where power is supplied to a electrical load (T1) from first and second ac busbars (2a, 2b) at a ratio that achieves a desired level of exhaust emissions such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon dioxide (C02) and other pollutants produced by the prime movers (D1-D4) associated with generators (G1-G4). Preferably, the method may be used to operate a dual fed marine propulsion system wherein the electrical load (T1) is a thruster. Operating a dual fed marine propulsion system using the method of the present invention makes it possible to optimise thrust allocation between thrusters (T1-T4) in a way that is similar to that used in conventional dynamic positioning (DP) systems and then share or allocate the required power between generators (G1-G4) to minimise exhaust emissions.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• B63H 23/24 - Transmitting power from propulsion power plant to propulsive elements with non-mechanical gearing electric
• B63H 25/42 - Steering or dynamic anchoring by propulsive elements; Steering or dynamic anchoring by propellers used therefor only; Steering or dynamic anchoring by rudders carrying propellers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a semiconductor device or power electronic device. The device includes a pair of pole pieces (36, 38), each having a profiled surface (40, 42). A semiconductor body or wafer (30), preferably of wide bandgap electronic material, is located between the pole pieces (36, 38) and includes contact metallisation regions (32, 34). The semiconductor body (30) produces an electric field that emerges from an edge region. Passivation means includes a first or radially inner part (44) in contact with the edge region of the semiconductor body (30) and which diffuses the electric field as it emerges from the edge region and a second or radially outer part (46). The second part (46) is in contact with the first part (44) and provides a substantially void-free interface with the profiled surface (40, 42) of each pole piece (36, 38). The device may be immersed in a dielectric liquid (50).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 23/051 - Containers; Seals characterised by the shape the container being a hollow construction and having a conductive base as a mounting as well as a lead for the semiconductor body another lead being formed by a cover plate parallel to the base plate, e.g. sandwich type
• H01L 23/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details of semiconductor or other solid state devices
• H01L 23/31 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the arrangement
• H01L 29/06 - Semiconductor bodies characterised by the shapes, relative sizes, or dispositions of the semiconductor regions

Abstract

The present invention provides a method of estimating the environmental force acting on a supported jack-up vessel (1). The vessel (1) is positioned in a force determination position and the strain on at least one support leg (3) of the jack-up vessel (1) is measured while a first thrust is applied to the vessel (1). A second thrust is applied to the vessel (1) whilst the vessel (1) is maintained in the force determination position. The variation in the strain in the at least one support leg (3) is monitored as the second thrust is applied and the strain is used to calculate an estimate of the environmental force acting on the vessel (1). The method allows a dynamic positioning (DP) system of the jack-up vessel (1) to determine a suitable thrust to apply to the vessel (1) as the support legs (3) of the vessel (1) are raised. By applying this suitable thrust the position of the vessel (1) can be maintained when the vessel (1) transitions from being supported by the support legs (3) to being supported by water (2).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01L 5/00 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes
• B63B 35/44 - Floating buildings, stores, drilling platforms, or workshops, e.g. carrying water-oil separating devices
• B63H 25/42 - Steering or dynamic anchoring by propulsive elements; Steering or dynamic anchoring by propellers used therefor only; Steering or dynamic anchoring by rudders carrying propellers
• E02B 17/02 - Artificial islands mounted on piles or like supports, e.g. platforms on raisable legs; Construction methods therefor placed by lowering the supporting construction to the bottom, e.g. with subsequent fixing thereto
• G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions

Abstract

The present invention provides a marine propulsion system that is suitable for any civilian and military marine vessels and which offers operational flexibility. The marine propulsion system includes a pair of ac busbars (16a, 16b) which carry and supply voltage that is supplied by ac generators with associated prime movers. A propulsion motor (Tl) is connected to each of the ac busbars by a respective power converter having an active front end. Each power converter includes a rectifier (30) having ac terminals connected to the respective ac busbar and an inverter (32) having ac terminals connected to the propulsion motor (Tl). The propulsion motor (Tl) is therefore connected to the ac terminals of each inverter (32) in parallel. The dc terminals of each rectifier (30) are connected to the dc terminals of each inverter (32) by a dc link (34).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 23/24 - Transmitting power from propulsion power plant to propulsive elements with non-mechanical gearing electric

Abstract

A wind turbine generator (10) has a drive end (24) at which one or more turbine blades are mountable and a non-drive end (28). The wind turbine generator (10) comprises an external stator (14) having a radially inner surface and an internal rotor (16) having a radially outer surface, an air gap (18) being defined between the rotor (16) and the stator (14). A main bearing arrangement (36) is provided at the drive end (24) and acts between the rotor (16) and the stator (14) to mount the rotor (16) for rotation about the stator (14) and a stabiliser bearing (46) is provided at the non-drive end (28) and acts between the rotor (16) and the stator (14) to stabilise the rotor (16) and stator (14) and maintain and control the air gap (18) therebetween.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 7/08 - Structural association with bearings
• H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines

Abstract

A wind turbine typically includes a generator and a rotating mechanical system having a natural period. The present invention relates to a method of controlling generator torque that minimises oscillations in the speed of the generator rotor. In the event of a grid fault or transient, or a fault in the power converter, the generator torque is decreased at a substantially constant rate with respect to time as shown in graph (c). The rate at which the generator torque is decreases is proportional to the nominal rated torque of the generator and inversely proportional to an integer multiple of the natural period of the rotating mechanical system.

IPC Classes  ?

• F03D 9/00 - Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
• H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
• F03D 7/02 - Controlling wind motors the wind motors having rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor
• F03D 7/04 - Automatic control; Regulation

Abstract

A dc energy store system includes a dc energy store (2), an AC/DC power converter (10) having ac terminals connected to an ac power supply (14) and dc terminals connected to the dc energy store (2), and at least one auxiliary unit (28, 30) associated with the dc energy store (5). The at least one auxiliary unit (28, 30) can be a pump, a fan, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), control unit or other device, for example. The dc energy store system is adapted to be operated in a number of different operating modes including: (i) a first mode to supply power from the ac power supply to the dc energy store; (ii) a second mode to supply power from the dc energy store to the ac power supply, i.e. the stored energy is returned to the ac power supply; (iii) a third mode to supply power from the ac power supply to the auxiliary unit(s); and (iv) a fault mode where there is a fault in the ac power supply, and power is supplied from the dc energy store to the auxiliary unit(s).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 9/06 - Circuit arrangements for emergency or stand-by power supply, e.g. for emergency lighting in which the distribution system is disconnected from the normal source and connected to a standby source with automatic change-over
• H02M 7/66 - Conversion of ac power input into dc power output; Conversion of dc power input into ac power output with possibility of reversal

Abstract

In a marine power distribution and propulsion system with a medium voltage distribution busbar (MVAC1) and a low voltage distribution busbar (LVAC1) then a rectifier (SC) is controlled, optionally to provide active filtering and static compensation benefits. A common power supply system incorporating ac generators (G1 -G4) supplies power to the medium and low voltage distribution busbars. The rectifier (SC) is connected to the medium voltage distribution busbar (MVAC1). A controller (Co) uses feedback signals indicative of electrical quantities of the distribution voltages carried by both the medium voltage and low voltage distribution busbars (MVAC1, LVAC1) to control the rectifier (SC) to regulate electrical quantities at the ac terminals of the rectifier (SC) in order to achieve desired electrical quantities of the distribution voltage carried by the low voltage distribution busbar (LVAC1).

IPC Classes  ?

• B63H 23/24 - Transmitting power from propulsion power plant to propulsive elements with non-mechanical gearing electric

Abstract

The present invention relates a rotor assembly for an electrical machine (e.g. motor or generator) where a tuned vibration absorber (4, 6, 8) adapted to provide radial damping is mounted directly to the rotor shaft (2).

IPC Classes  ?

• F16F 15/14 - Suppression of vibrations in rotating systems by making use of members moving with the system using freely-swinging masses rotating with the system

Abstract

A power transmission system may include a plurality of renewable-energy devices (4a, 4b, 4c) such as wind turbines or subsea turbines. The devices are connected together in parallel to a subsea cable (10) that carries an ac transmission voltage. Each device includes a turbine assembly (6) that is rotated by wind or water current flows, and a variable speed ac induction generator (G1, G2, G3). A power converter (2) is connected to the subsea cable (10) and is used to interface the generators (G1, G2, G3) to a supply network or power grid. The power transmission system is operated such that an indicated operating speed of one or more of the devices is used to control the power converter (e.g. the PWM strategy that is used to open and close the power semiconductor devices) to achieve desired stator electrical quantities at each generator (G1, G2, G3).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• F03D 9/00 - Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations

Abstract

The invention relates to a component such as a rotor or stator (1) for an electrical machine. The component includes a plurality of axially adjacent stacks (4) of laminations. At least one pair of adjacent stacks are spaced apart in the axial direction by spacer means (6) such that a passageway or duct for cooling fluid, e.g. air, is formed therebetween. The spacer means (6) comprises a porous structural mat (8) of metal fibres (10). The cooling fluid may flow through the spaces or voids between the fibres (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/20 - Stationary parts of the magnetic circuit with channels or ducts for flow of cooling medium
• H02K 1/02 - DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES - Details of the magnetic circuit characterised by the magnetic material
• B32B 15/00 - Layered products essentially comprising metal

Abstract

An assembly includes an electrical machine (2) connected to a power converter (6) by a three-phase circuit (8) having three conductors, e.g. cables (10a, 10b, 10c). Each conductor (10a, 10b, 10c) is associated with a switching device (14a, 14b, 14c) such as a contactor or the like that connects the conductor to a common conductor (16) or terminal. In the event of a fault current being developed in the circuit (8) or the power converter (4), the switching devices (14a, 14b, 14c) are operated to close the fault current and connect together the conductors (10a, 10b, 10c) of the three-phase circuit (6) to provide a full three-phase short circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02H 7/08 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for dynamo-electric motors
• H02H 7/12 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from norm for rectifiers for static converters or rectifiers

Abstract

An ac synchronous electrical machine includes a stator (6) and a multi-phase stator winding that defines a plurality of stator poles. The stator winding has two or more coil groups (Group 1, Group 2...), each coil group including a plurality of coils for each phase that are received in winding slots (4) in the stator (6). The stator winding is connected to a power source/sink (18). The coil groups (Group 1, Group 2...) are connected in series and each coil group is connected to a power source/sink (18) by a respective switch (26a, 26b...). This allows one or more of the coil groups to be selectively supplied with power from the associated power source/sink (18) or selectively supply power to the associated power source/sink (18). The switches 26a, 26b are operated by a controller 32. The coils in each coil group (Group 1, Group 2...) are arranged substantially symmetrically around the circumference of the stator (6) to define selected poles of the electrical machine and to produce a constant and balanced rotating torque when any particular coil group or combination of coil groups is active.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 3/28 - Layout of windings or of connections between windings
• H02P 1/46 - Arrangements for starting electric motors or dynamo-electric converters for starting dynamo-electric motors or dynamo-electric converters for starting an individual synchronous motor

Abstract

An improved rotary switch (e.g. a double pole double break switch) includes first and second poles (2, 4). Each pole including a rotatable bridging member (24) and a pair of fixed busbars (6a, 6b; 8a, 8b). Each busbar has at least one primary contact (14) and may also include a contact arm (12) with an arcing contact (28). The rotary switch is adapted such that the direction of current flow through the first pole (2) is opposite to the direction of current flow through the second pole (4). In this way, arcs established in the first pole (2) are deflected away from arcs established in the second pole (4).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01H 9/00 - ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES - Details of switching devices, not covered by groups
• H01H 77/10 - Protective overload circuit-breaking switches operated by excess current and requiring separate action for resetting in which the excess current itself provides the energy for opening the contacts, and having a separate reset mechanism with electrodynamic opening