AU2017210650C1 - Motor starting and control system and method utilised by directly connected islanded reciproacting engine powered generators - Google Patents
Motor starting and control system and method utilised by directly connected islanded reciproacting engine powered generators Download PDFInfo
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Abstract
A motor or motors (LV/HV) starting and control system 100 includes a generator assembly 10, an
automatic voltage regulator (AVR) 12, an engine control unit 14, a system controller 16, a circuit
breaker 18, human machine interface (HMI) 20, and a network interface 22. The generator assembly
10 comprises an engine 9 coupled to an alternator 11. The motor or motors (LV/HV) starting and
control system 100 is electrically connected to at least one motor 24, which is part of a load system
200. The motor or motors 24 is/are connected to the motor or motors (LV/HV) starting system 100
such that the motor or motors 24 can be started by the generator assembly 10 of the motor or
motors (LV/HV) starting and control system 100.
1/4
LV Setting
Generator 10
F----------------------------------I
11IM
AVR HII
tEngine 9 S--s 12 - r2 n
Motor2 20ro
Network
ECU Motr rNetwork
Inerac 32
Circuit 22
Breaker
18
Controller
16 Control Centre
34
Motor 1 Sensor 1 sensor 2 Sensor 3
24 26 28 30
Motor 2 Sensor 2
24 26
Motor 3 Sensor 3
24 26
Additional
Motors/Sensors
2AX L - - - - ------ - -- -- - -
Figure 1
Description
1/4
LV Setting
Generator 10 F----------------------------------I
11IM AVR HII tEngine 9 S--s 12 - r2 n
Network ECU Motr rNetwork Inerac 32 Circuit 22 Breaker 18
Controller 16 Control Centre 34 Motor2 20ro
Motor 1 Sensor 1 sensor 2 Sensor 3 24 26 28 30
Motor 2 Sensor 2 24 26
Motor 3 Sensor 3 24 26
Additional Motors/Sensors L - - - - ------ 2AX - -- -- - -
Figure 1
Regulation 3.2
Patents Act 1990
Complete Specification For The Invention Entitled:
The invention is described in the following statement:
Field of the Invention
[1] The present invention relates to a system for starting and controlling an electric motor and/or motors solely via an optimally sized generator connected directly to said electric motor, including induction motor and/or motors, eliminating the need for external conventional current-limiting motor starting and control devices such as VSD (Variable Speed Drives), Soft-starters, Star/Delta Starting, Auto-transformers or the need to use expensive Wound-rotor motors.
Background of the Invention
[2] The current drawn by an electric motor and/or motors upon starting can be significantly larger than the electrical current (Amps) required to operate the motor and/or motors when operating at a desired speed and/or load. This starting current of an electrical motor and/or motors, hereinafter referred to as the starting current, may in fact be as much as 6 to 8 times the name-plate current of the motor and/or motors.
[3] When a generator is utilised as the electrical supply for the starting of an electric motor and/or motors, the generator needs to be sized large enough to be able to generate sufficient electrical power to maintain the starting current and voltage requirements during the starting of the electric motor and/or motors.
[4] With conventional electric motor starting, once an electric motor and/or motors has been started via a generator, the operational load on the generator reduces significantly than that required by the motor and/or motors during the starting event, which means that significant generator capacity becomes redundant and as a result, the generator engine may operate at a lower fuel efficiency. This over sizing of a generator's engine and alternator for motor and/or motors starting requirements therefore impacts the requisite level of capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operating expenditure (OPEX).
[5] Additionally, it is often required to operate a motor and/or motors at varying speeds. This is conventionally achieved through the use of a variable voltage, variable frequency (VVVF) drives, also known as VSD's. Without special packaging, these are unsuitable for hot dusty environments. The need for a VVVF drive also increases CAPEX, and to a smaller degree OPEX, and further introduces an additional point of failure.
[6] The present invention seeks to overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the above issues, or to at least provide an alternative.
[7] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.
Summary of the Invention
[8] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a starting and control system for an assembly having an electric motor or motors, the system comprising:
a generator assembly comprising an engine coupled to an alternator;
an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) for controlling voltage output of the alternator;
an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling an operation of the generator engine;
a system controller connected to the AVR and operable to control the AVR, the system controller controlling the manner in which the AVR controls the alternator voltage output, the system controller being connected to the ECU and operable to control the manner in which the ECU controls the generator engine speed and therefore frequency of the voltage output from the alternator,
wherein parameter set points are set in the system controller, and the system controller receives sensor signals, and based on type of control selected - selected from fluid flow, fluid pressure and fluid level - the system controller is configured and operable to control the AVR and/or the ECU to vary the speed of the generator engine and the alternator voltage output by the generator assembly so that the speed of the electric motor or motors is appropriately varied to maintain the parameter set points, and
wherein alternator voltage is controlled by the system controller and the AVR to increase or decrease in proportion to changes in engine speed which maintains the speed to voltage relationship required to suit the motor or motors' electrical characteristics.
[9] In a preferred embodiment, the system controller is controlled by a human machine interface (HMI) coupled to the system controller.
[10] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller is controlled by a remote control centre.
[11] In another preferred embodiment, the starting and control system further comprises a network interface, the network interface connecting the system controller to the remote control centre via a network.
[12] In another preferred embodiment, the starting and control system further comprises a circuit breaker connected between the generator assembly and the motor or motors, wherein the circuit breaker prevents the motor or motors from drawing too high a current from the generator assembly.
[13] In another preferred embodiment, the starting and control system further comprises an 1/O (Input/output) module which receives sensor signals which are sent to the system controller.
[14] In another preferred embodiment, the starting and control system further comprises sensors for providing the system controller with indications of the current levels of respective parameters for comparing with the parameter set points,
[15] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller can send a signal to the AVR to start or stop excitation of the alternator.
[16] In another preferred embodiment, the ECU controls an operation of the engine including engine idle speed, and engine speed and thus alternator frequency, based on instructions received from the system controller.
[17] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller is a microprocessor and/or microcontroller system which receives instructional input from a human machine interface and/or a remote control centre.
[18] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller receives sensor signals from a load environment sensor, a flow meter, a pressure transmitter, or a speed sensor.
[19] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller outputs instructions to the AVR and the ECU in the form of a reference voltage, an analogue signal, a digital signal, machine code, or packetized data.
[20] In another preferred embodiment, the system controller is connected to the generator assembly and can send instructions to start the generator and stop the generator.
[21] In another preferred embodiment, the starting and control system further comprises a step up transformer connected between the starting and control system and a high voltage (HV) load system to step up the output voltage from starting and control system to the voltage required by the HV load system.
[22] In another preferred embodiment, the type of control and the parameter set point levels to be controlled are programmable through the HMI of the system controller.
[23] In another preferred embodiment, protections are programmable to provide warnings or shutdowns on any of the sensor inputs.
[24] The present invention also provides an assembly comprising the starting and control system of the above and a load system including the motor or motors.
[25] In a preferred embodiment, the electric motor or motors operates a borehole pump or pumps, and the load system includes one or more load environment sensor or sensors including a borehole water level, pressure sensor or speed monitor, which provides an output to the system controller.
[26] In another preferred embodiment, the parameter set points include a predetermined water level, a predetermined water head, a predetermined belt speed, a predetermined pressure rating, a predetermined torque and/or a predetermined fan speed
[27] The present invention also provides a method for starting a motor or motors using a generator assembly comprising an engine coupled to an alternator, the method comprising:
generating a voltage from the generator assembly for supply to the motor or motors;
controlling the voltage generated by the alternator via an automatic voltage regulator (AVR);
controlling the speed of the generator engine and therefore alternator frequency via an engine control unit (ECU);
controlling the AVR and ECU via a system controller;
setting parameter set points in the system controller, and the system controller receiving sensor signals, and based on type of control selected - selected from fluid flow, fluid pressure and fluid level - the AVR is to cause the generator alternator voltage to vary as the ECU is controlled to cause the generator engine to increase or decrease in speed with the alternator voltage varying in proportion to engine speed so that the speed of the electric motor or motors is appropriately varied to maintain the parameter set points and to maintain the speed to voltage relationship required to suit the motor or motors' electrical characteristics.
[28]
[29] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for starting a motor and/or motors using a generator assembly comprising an engine and an alternator, the method comprising:
- generating a voltage from the generator assembly for supply to the motor and/or motors;
- controlling the voltage generated by the generator alternator via an automatic voltage regulator (AVR);
- controlling the speed of the generator engine via an engine control unit (ECU); and
- controlling the AVR and ECU via a system controller, wherein the AVR is used to cause the generator alternator voltage to vary as the ECU is controlled to cause the generator engine to increase and decrease in speed and therefore the alternator voltage to increase and decrease in frequency.
[30] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for controlling a motor and/or motors using a generator assembly comprising an engine and an alternator, the method comprising:
- generating a voltage from the generator assembly for supply to the motor and/or motors;
- controlling the voltage generated by the generator alternator via an automatic voltage regulator (AVR);
- controlling the speed of the generator engine and therefore alternator frequency via an engine control unit (ECU)
- receiving at least one input signal to a system controller, the system controller operable to control an operation of the AVR and the ECU; and
- controlling the AVR and the ECU via the system controller based on the input signal received by the system controller, whereby a voltage and frequency generated by the generator assembly and hence an operation of the motor and/or motors supplied with this variable voltage variable frequency is controlled.
[31] In another aspect, the present invention provides a motor or motors starting and control assembly, the assembly comprising:
- a generator assembly comprising an engine and an alternator,
- an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) for controlling voltage output of the alternator; and
- a system controller connected to and operable to control the AVR, the system controller controlling the manner in which the AVR controls the alternator.
[32] In another embodiment, the system controller can send a signal to the AVR to start or stop excitation of the alternator.
[33] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises an Engine Control Unit (ECU) connected to the generator engine for controlling an operation of the engine based on instructions received from the system controller.
[34] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises a human machine interface and/or a network interface for providing instructional input to the system controller to control an operation of the generator assembly.
[35] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises sensors connected to the system controller.
[36] In another embodiment, the assembly further comprises a circuit breaker connected between the generator assembly and the motor or motors, wherein the circuit breaker prevents the motor or motors from drawing too high a current from the generator assembly.
[37] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[38] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[39] Figure 1 illustrates a motor or motors control and starting system according to the present invention in a low voltage (LV, less than or equal to 1000 VAC) setting;
[40] Figure 2 illustrates a motor or motors control and starting system according to the present invention in a high voltage (HV, greater than 1000 VAC) setting;
[41] Figure 3 illustrates a motor starting operation and method of the motor starting and control system; and
[42] Figure 4 illustrates a motor control operation and method of the motor starting and control system.
Description of Embodiments
[43] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.
[44] A motor or motors (LV or HV) starting and control system 100 according to the present invention is described with reference to Figs. 1 and 2. Figure 1 shows control system 100 in a Low Voltage (LV) setting and Figure 2 shows a control system 100 in a High Voltage (HV) setting. The systems 100 are identical in both LV and HV settings. The difference between the settings is described below. The motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 includes a generator assembly 10, an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) 12, an engine control unit (ECU) 14, a system controller 16, a circuit breaker 18, human machine interface (HMI) 20, and a network interface 22. The generator assembly 10 comprises an engine 9 coupled to an alternator 11.
[45] The motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 is electrically connected to at least one electric motor 24, which is part of a load system 200. In the example shown, the starting and control system 100 is electrically connected to multiple electric motors 24. The electric motor or motors 24 operates, for example, a pump (not shown) or fans or other equipment/load of the load system 200. The load system 200 is, for example, a borehole and pump or pumps in which or on which the motor or motors 24 operates, OR a fan system driven by the motor or motors 24, OR any other motor or motors driven application and combinations thereof. The load system 200 includes one or more load environment sensor or sensors 26, such as a borehole water level, pressure sensor or speed monitor, which provides an output to the system controller 16. The motor or motors 24 is/are connected to the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 such that the motor or motors 24 can be started by the generator assembly 10 of the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 and provide variable voltage variable frequency supply to the connected loads 24.
[46] The generator engine 9 of the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting system and control 100 is, in a preferred embodiment, a combustion engine such as a diesel, gas or petrol engine coupled to an alternator 11. The generator assembly 10 is sized to be between around 125% to 333% of the kW rating of the motor or motors 24. That is, the motor or motors 24 to be started by the generator assembly 10 is between around 30% to 80% of the combined kW rating of the generator assembly 10.
[47] The AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) 12 is connected to the alternator 11 and regulates the output voltage of the alternator 11. The AVR 12 also functions based on instructions received from the system controller 16. In particular, the system controller 16 can send a signal (e.g. required excitation voltage) to the AVR 12, to start or stop excitation of the alternator 11.
[48] The ECU (Engine Control Unit) 14 is connected to the generator engine 9 and controls an operation of the engine 9, for example engine idle speed, engine speed and thus alternator frequency, etc., based on instructions received from the system controller 16.
[49] The system controller 16 is a microprocessor and/or microcontroller system configured to control an operation of the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100, and in particular the generator assembly 10. The system controller 16 receives instructional input from the human machine interface 20 and/or the control centre 34 via the network 32 and network interface 22. The system controller 16 further receives sensory inputfrom a variety of sensors, including the load environment sensor or sensors 26 and other periphery system sensors 28, 30, for example a flow meter or a pressure transmitter, speed sensor of an associated sub-assemblies.
[50] The system controller 16 still further outputs instructions to the generator assembly 10, AVR 12, ECU 14, and circuit breaker 18. The instructions output to the generator assembly 10, AVR 12, and ECU 14 may be a control signal (e.g. a reference voltage, an analogue signal, a digital signal, etc.) and/or logical instructions (e.g. machine code, packetized data, etc.).
[51] In the preferred embodiment, the instructions output by the system controller 16 to the generator assembly 10 include instructions to start the generator and stop the generator. The instructions output by the system controller 16 to the AVR include instructions to change the signal output by the AVR 12 to the alternator 11 of the generator assembly 10. The instructions output by the system controller 16 to the ECU 14 include instructions to change the signals output by the ECU 14 to the generator engine 9 to control the engine speed and therefore the alternator frequency.
[52] The circuit breaker 18 of the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 is connected between the generator assembly 10 and the motor or motors 24 of the motor or motors system 200. The circuit breaker 18 prevents the motor or motors 24 from drawing too high a current from the generator assembly 10.
[53] The HMI 20 is a physical interface electronically coupled to the system controller 16. The HMI 20 includes output means, such as a display, speaker, and/or printer, and input means, such as a keypad, keyboard, touch screen, touch pad, and the like. The HMI 20 provides the ability to control the system controller 16 locally, that is, in person while physically located in the vicinity of the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100.
[54] The network interface 22 provides network access to and from the system controller 16. In the preferred embodiment, the network interface 22 is a cellular modem compatible with 3G/4G, LTE, EDGE, HSPA, CDMA, or other mobile communications protocol. The network interface 22 may additionally or alternatively be a Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Cable, ADSL/DSL, and/or Bluetooth T M interface. The network interface 22 connects the controller 16 to the network 32, which may be the Internet or other LAN or WAN, and thereby to the remote control centre 34.
[55] The remote control centre 34 is and/or includes a device (e.g. computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet, etc.) operable to generate and transmit instructions to the system controller 16.
[56] In the High Voltage (HV) setting shown in Figure 2, a Low Voltage to High Voltage (LV/HV) Step Up transformer 38 is connected between the HV motor or motors starting and control system 100 and the HV load system 200. Specifically, the LV/HV Step Up Transformer 38 is connected between the circuit breaker 18 and the HV motor or motors 24. The LV/HV Transformer 38 functions to step up the output voltage from starting and control system 100 to the voltage required by the motor or motors 24.
[57] With reference now to Fig. 3, a method 400 of operating the motor or motors (LV/HV) starting and control system 100 to start the motor or motors 24 of the load system 200 is described.
[58] Commencing at step 2-10 of method 400, PUMP MODE is selected on the controller 16. This forces set points in the controller 16 to reduce the full load generator protection settings to suitable protection settings for the size motor/motors being started. The generator assembly 10 is then placed into Manual mode. At this point in time the Generator Main Circuit Breaker 18 is in the closed position. If the circuit breaker 18 is not closed and the controller is put into the Manual MODE position an alarm will sound and the generator will not be able to be started.
[59] At step 2-15, the start button is pushed and the generator starts and runs at idle speed. The system controller 16 is controlled, for example, by the HMI 20 or control centre 34, to issue a start instruction to the generator assembly 10. Alternatively, the generator assembly 10 may be started directly, for example by manipulating a start button on the generator assembly 10, or other starting device such as an ignition key.
[60] At 2-20, after the idle period, the generator assembly 10 is controlled by the controller system 16 to ramp up towards a full operational speed. Specifically, the system controller 16 outputs instructions to the ECU 14 to increase the engine 9 speed towards a full operational speed in a number of control steps.
[61] At 2-25, as the generator assembly 10 is increasing towards the full operational speed, the system controller 16 provides instructions to the AVR 12 to start the excitation of the alternator 11. This forces an output voltage of the alternator and the speed to ramp up at the same time. The voltage output of the alternator 11 increases with the increase in speed of the generator engine 9.
[62] At 2-30, the increase in voltage supplied by the alternator 11 to the motor or motors 24 drives the motor or motors 24 from stationary to operational speed, thereby starting the motor or motors 24.
[63] The method 400, by way of steps 2-10 to 2-30 and in particular by way of step 2-25 which controls a voltage output of the alternator 11, limits a current draw of the motor or motors 24 as it is increasing in speed and starting up. Accordingly, the inrush current of the motor or motors 24 during start up can be controlled and reduced, whereby a smaller generator assembly 10 can be used. In this manner, CAPEX and OPEX are reduced.
[64] For a wide variety of reasons, it is often desirable to control/vary a speed of the motor or motors 24. For example, it may be desired to switch an operating mode of a pump powered by the motor or motors 24 from "flow" mode to "pressure" mode, and/or the water head pressure may change, and/or an incoming flow rate has changed, etc. Similarly, it may be desired to vary a belt speed of a conveyor/fan powered by the motor or motors 24 to propel a material/air being conveyed farther, or nearer.
[65] With reference now to Fig. 4, a method 500 of operating the motor or motors (LV OR HV) starting and control system 100 to control a speed of the motor or motors 24 of the load system 200 is described. The method 500 assumes that the motor or motors 24 is already started and is operating at a suitable speed. If the motor or motors 24 is not yet started, appropriate steps to start the motor or motors 24, such as those of operation 400, are first executed.
[66] The method 500 may commence in response to the receipt by the system controller 16 of a signal from one or more of the load environment sensor or sensors 26 and/or periphery system sensors 28, 30. Alternatively, method 500 may commence in response instructions provided to the system controller 16 via the HMI 20 and/or control centre 34. At step 3-10, therefore, the system controller 16 receives a signal and/or instruction indicating that a change in motor or motors speed is required.
[67] At step 3-15, the system controller 16 generates and outputs to the ECU 14 an instruction to increase or decrease the speed of the generator engine 9. This leads respectively to an increase or decrease in the voltage output by the alternator 11.
[68] At step 3-20, the combined speed increase/decrease and voltage increase/decrease is supplied to the motor or motors 24, increasing/decreasing the speed of the motor or motors 24 and thereby the pumps or motor driven devices.
[69] The method 500 essentially allows the motor or motors starting (LV OR HV) and control system 100 to provide the function of a variable speed drive (VSD), thereby removing the need for a dedicated VSD and hence the CAPEX and OPEX associated with having a dedicated VSD per motor.
[70] In the preferred embodiment, one or more set points may be set in the system controller 16 for one or more parameters. Such parameters may include, for example:
• A predetermined water level
• A predetermined water head
• A predetermined belt speed
• A predetermined pressure rating
• A predetermined torque
• A predetermined fan speed
• Other sensor-measurable parameter
[71] Inputs from sensor 26, 28, 30 provide to the system controller 16 indications of the current levels/magnitudes of respective parameters, which the system controller 16 then compares to the set points for those parameters (if any).
[72] The system controller 16 is configured and operable to control the AVR 12 and/or ECU 14 to vary the speed of the generator engine 9 and the alternator 11 voltage output by the generator assembly 10 so that the speed of the motor or motors 24 is appropriately varied to maintain the set points for the parameters.
[73] The 1/O (Input/output) module receives sensor signals which are sent to the generator controller 16. Based on signal levels and the type of control selected (Flow, Pressure, Level) the generator controller 16 via the ECU 14 will force the engine 9 speed to increase or decrease and via AVR 12 the alternator voltage to increase or decrease in proportion and thereby maintain the required setpoint.
[74] The alternator voltage is controlled by Controller (16) and AVR (12) to increase or decrease in proportion to changes in engine (9) speed. This creates a Variable Speed Drive (VSD) which maintains the speed to voltage relationship required to suit the motor or motors' electrical characteristics.
[75] Setpoints for the type of VSD control and the levels that wish to be controlled are programmable through the HMI 20 of the controller 16 by the customer. Protections are also programmable to provide warnings or shutdowns on any of the sensor inputs.
[76] To shut the system down, the STOP button is pushed on the controller 16. This forces the generator assembly 10 back to idle and opens the signal to the AVR 12 which forces the motor or motors voltage and speed to drop at the same time. The generator assembly 10 will then go through a cooldown period and then shut down.
[77] The preferred embodiments thus provide a number of advantages. The preferred embodiment removes the need for external motor or motors starting equipment via manipulation of voltage and speed control of the generator assembly allowing for a reduced sized engine 9 and alternator 11 assembly to start larger kW motors. The invention removes the need for traditional starting methods using soft start, solid state, star/delta, auto transformer or VVVF drives fed from Generators.
[78] The additional benefit of this invention allowed for the reduction in engine 9 size and alternator 11 size for motor or motors starting from 30% to 80% of the Generator kW rating. The invention also allows for a range of motors to be started from one engine 9 without the need to select additional external equipment, except for individual motor overload protection units when multiple motors are in the motor load system 200. The invention allows for motor or motors starting from 30% to 80% of the Generator kW sizing without the need for any additional components. The additional benefits sees fuel savings of between 15% to 30% depending on the selection of engine 9 model to motor or motors starting requirements.
[79] The present invention provides a Generator being used as the primary motor control starting unit. The invention allows for the Generator to have dual function. One function is distribution of power as per the definition of the Generator unit. The second function is to use the Generator assembly as a primary motor control to provide remote starting, stopping, logging, and control of all parameters of the motor installation and digital and analogue inputs through the interface of an existing hardware with software manipulation which controls the motor control function of the Generator.
[80] Whilst preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be apparent to skilled persons that modifications can be made to the embodiments described. The above example is primarily directed to motors operating submersible pumps. The present system can however be used for motors in other applications such as driving conveyer belts, large fans and the like.
Claims (19)
1. A starting and control system for an assembly having an electric motor or motors, the system comprising: - a generator assembly comprising an engine coupled to an alternator; - an automatic voltage regulator (AVR) for controlling voltage output of the alternator; - an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling an operation of the generator engine; - a system controller connected to the AVR and operable to control the AVR, the system controller controlling the manner in which the AVR controls the alternator voltage output, the system controller being connected to the ECU and operable to control the manner in which the ECU controls the generator engine speed and therefore frequency of the voltage output from the alternator, - a borehole water level sensor which provides an output to the system controller; - wherein parameter set points including a parameter set point of predetermined water level are set in the system controller, and the system controller receives sensor signals, and based on type of control selected - selected from fluid flow, fluid pressure and fluid level - the system controller is configured and operable to control the AVR and/or the ECU to vary the speed of the generator engine and the alternator voltage output by the generator assembly so that the speed of the electric motor or motors is appropriately varied to maintain the parameter set points, and - wherein alternator voltage is controlled by the system controller and the AVR to increase or decrease in proportion to changes in engine speed which maintains the speed to voltage relationship required to suit the motor or motors' electrical characteristics.
2. A starting and control system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system controller is controlled by a human machine interface (HMI) coupled to the system controller.
3. A starting and control system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system controller is controlled by a remote control centre.
4. A starting and control system as claimed in claim 3, further comprising a network interface, the network interface connecting the system controller to the remote control centre via a network.
5. The starting and control system of claim 1 further comprising a circuit breaker connected between the generator assembly and the motor or motors, wherein the circuit breaker prevents the motor or motors from drawing too high a current from the generator assembly.
6. The starting and control system of claim 1 further comprising an 1/0 (Input/output) module which receives sensor signals which are sent to the system controller.
7. The starting and control system of claim 1 further comprising sensors for providing the system controller with indications of the current levels of respective parameters for comparing with the parameter set points,
8. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the system controller can send a signal to the AVR to start or stop excitation of the alternator.
9. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the ECU controls an operation of the engine including engine idle speed, and engine speed and thus alternator frequency, based on instructions received from the system controller.
10. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the system controller is a microprocessor and/or microcontroller system which receives instructional input from a human machine interface and/or a remote control centre.
11. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the system controller receives sensor signals from a load environment sensor, a flow meter, a pressure transmitter, or a speed sensor.
12. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the system controller outputs instructions to the AVR and the ECU in the form of a reference voltage, an analogue signal, a digital signal, machine code, or packetized data.
13. The starting and control system of claim 1 wherein the system controller is connected to the generator assembly and can send instructions to start the generator and stop the generator.
14. The starting and control system of claim 1 further comprising a step up transformer connected between the starting and control system and a high voltage (HV) load system to step up the output voltage from starting and control system to the voltage required by the HV load system.
15. The starting and control system of claim 2 wherein the type of control and the parameter set point levels to be controlled are programmable through the HMI of the system controller.
16. The starting and control system of claim 15 wherein protections are programmable to provide warnings or shutdowns on any of the sensor inputs.
17. An assembly comprising the starting and control system of claim 1 and a load system including the motor or motors.
18. The assembly of claim 17 wherein the electric motor or motors operates a borehole pump or pumps, and the load system includes one or more load environment sensor or sensors including a borehole water level, pressure sensor or speed monitor, which provides an output to the system controller.
19. The assembly of claim 18 wherein the parameter set points include a predetermined water level, a predetermined water head, a predetermined belt speed, a predetermined pressure rating, a predetermined torque and/or a predetermined fan speed.
Priority Applications (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2019203740A AU2019203740A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2019-05-28 | Motor starting, speed and voltage control system including the methodology utilised for directly connected islanded reciprocating engine powered generators |
| AU2020103197A AU2020103197B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2020-11-03 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2021203584A AU2021203584A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-06-01 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (VVVF) power supply for varying the speed of AC motors |
| AU2021107164A AU2021107164B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-08-25 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2023214334A AU2023214334A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2023-08-10 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (vvvf) power supply for varying the speed of ac motors |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2016903254A AU2016903254A0 (en) | 2016-08-16 | Motor starting and control system and method utilised by directly connected islanded reciproacting engine powered generators | |
| AU2016903254 | 2016-08-16 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2019203740A Division AU2019203740A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2019-05-28 | Motor starting, speed and voltage control system including the methodology utilised for directly connected islanded reciprocating engine powered generators |
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| AU2017210650A1 AU2017210650A1 (en) | 2018-03-08 |
| AU2017210650B2 AU2017210650B2 (en) | 2019-02-28 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2017210650A Active AU2017210650C1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2017-08-05 | Motor starting and control system and method utilised by directly connected islanded reciproacting engine powered generators |
| AU2019203740A Abandoned AU2019203740A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2019-05-28 | Motor starting, speed and voltage control system including the methodology utilised for directly connected islanded reciprocating engine powered generators |
| AU2020103197A Revoked AU2020103197B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2020-11-03 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2021203584A Abandoned AU2021203584A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-06-01 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (VVVF) power supply for varying the speed of AC motors |
| AU2021107164A Active AU2021107164B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-08-25 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2023214334A Withdrawn AU2023214334A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2023-08-10 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (vvvf) power supply for varying the speed of ac motors |
Family Applications After (5)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2019203740A Abandoned AU2019203740A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2019-05-28 | Motor starting, speed and voltage control system including the methodology utilised for directly connected islanded reciprocating engine powered generators |
| AU2020103197A Revoked AU2020103197B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2020-11-03 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2021203584A Abandoned AU2021203584A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-06-01 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (VVVF) power supply for varying the speed of AC motors |
| AU2021107164A Active AU2021107164B4 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2021-08-25 | Power and control of a submersible pump |
| AU2023214334A Withdrawn AU2023214334A1 (en) | 2016-08-16 | 2023-08-10 | Electromechanical method for producing variable voltage, variable frequency (vvvf) power supply for varying the speed of ac motors |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU2017213531B1 (en) * | 2017-08-10 | 2017-12-21 | Taranis Power Group Pty Ltd | An electrical system for driving a pump. |
| AU2021106214B4 (en) * | 2021-08-20 | 2022-06-30 | Taranis Power Group Pty Ltd | Variable speed multifunction power generator |
Family Cites Families (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPH08270594A (en) * | 1995-03-30 | 1996-10-15 | Komatsu Ltd | Controller of engine for driving liquid pumping-up device |
| JP4079213B2 (en) * | 2002-04-22 | 2008-04-23 | ヤマハモーターパワープロダクツ株式会社 | Engine generator |
| AU2003243627A1 (en) * | 2002-06-18 | 2003-12-31 | Ingersoll-Rand Energy Systems Corporation | Microturbine engine system |
| JP4433149B2 (en) * | 2003-10-31 | 2010-03-17 | 国産電機株式会社 | Engine-driven inverter power generator and control method thereof |
| US7170262B2 (en) * | 2003-12-24 | 2007-01-30 | Foundation Enterprises Ltd. | Variable frequency power system and method of use |
| JP4291235B2 (en) * | 2004-08-20 | 2009-07-08 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Vehicle power supply |
| CN101689056B (en) * | 2007-05-31 | 2014-03-05 | 卡特彼勒公司 | Gen-set control system having proactive load relief |
| US8347953B1 (en) * | 2009-12-11 | 2013-01-08 | Ge Oil & Gas Esp, Inc. | Inline monitoring package for electrical submersible pump |
| US9394770B2 (en) * | 2013-01-30 | 2016-07-19 | Ge Oil & Gas Esp, Inc. | Remote power solution |
| US20150078917A1 (en) * | 2013-09-19 | 2015-03-19 | General Electric Company | System and method for converterless operation of motor-driven pumps |
| AU2017213531B1 (en) * | 2017-08-10 | 2017-12-21 | Taranis Power Group Pty Ltd | An electrical system for driving a pump. |
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| AU2021107164A4 (en) | 2021-12-09 |
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