WO2023057462A1

WO2023057462A1 - Systems and methods for integrated control of different types of power sources in a microgrid

Info

Publication number: WO2023057462A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/077606
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ladislav SZETEI
Original assignee: ComAp a.s.
Priority date: 2021-10-06
Filing date: 2022-10-04
Publication date: 2023-04-13

Abstract

An example system includes a power source that outputs direct current (DC) power drawn from one or more power cells. The system also includes a controller coupled to the power source. The controller is configured to obtain first control logic executable by the controller to operate a genset that outputs alternating current (AC) power drawn from an alternator of the genset. The controller is also configured to generate, based on the first control logic, second control logic executable by the controller to operate the power source. The controller is also configured to execute the second control logic to operate the power source.

Description

TITLE

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED CONTROL OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF POWER SOURCES IN A MICROGRID

BACKGROUND

[0001] Generator sets (“gensets”) are widely used to provide electric power, especially in areas that are far from or not connected to a power grid. A genset typically includes an engine coupled to an alternator. The alternator converts rotational energy from the engine into electrical energy. A genset controller typically controls the operation of a genset, including the operation of the engine and the alternator of the genset.

[0002] Over time, genset controllers evolved to improve and automate various control and monitoring capabilities. For example, a genset controller can be used to simultaneously control multiple gensets to power a shared load (e.g., a microgrid). Additionally, the genset controller can monitor or measure various operation parameters of the gensets (e.g., temperature levels, voltage levels, etc.) and automatically power down one or more of the gensets if the measurements do not meet certain safety thresholds. Some genset controllers also provide automation features to facilitate efficiently controlling and monitoring a genset. For example, an operator can input a single control instruction (via a user interface of a genset controller) to automatically trigger a sequence of operations (e.g., measurements, computations, parameter adjustments, etc.) instead of inputting a separate control instruction for each individual operation in the sequence.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0003] Figure 1 is a simplified block diagram of an example system for controlling and monitoring one or more power sources, according to an example embodiment.

[0004] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an example genset that can be used to implement one or more of the power sources illustrated in Figure 1, according to an example embodiment.

[0005] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an example implementation of the system of Figure 1, according to an example embodiment. [0006] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of an example implementation of a controller of the example system of Figure 1, according to an example embodiment.

[0007] Figure 5 illustrates an example implementation of integration logic that can be used to adapt genset control logic for operating one or more different types of power sources, according to an example embodiment.

[0008] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an example process for using genset control logic to operate other types of power sources, according to an example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] Example systems, devices and methods disclosed herein involve integrated control of different types of power sources. In some examples, multiple generator sets (“gensets”) are connected in parallel where some of the gensets are active while others are in standby mode. For example, a network or chain of gensets may generate power together by sharing a load (e.g., by different combinations of the gensets operating together and/or different gensets operating under different operational parameters based on the power output demand). For instance, during continuous operation of the system, the gensets, when in parallel operation, may share the load with multiple other gensets in the system. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, other types of power sources may also operate with and/or instead of the gensets to share the load. Thus, in some examples, power generation can be optimized between gensets, renewable energy power sources (e.g., solar cells, wind turbines), and/or other types of power sources or energy storage systems (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, etc.).

[0010] Due to differences in the underlying physics associated with power generation in different types of power sources as well as differences in the hardware / software configurations of these different types of power sources, controller logic used to control a first type of power sources (e.g., gensets) may be incompatible or less suitable for controlling a second type of power sources (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, etc.). For example, a genset power source may use an engine to convert chemical energy from a fuel (e.g., diesel, gas, etc.) into mechanical energy, which is then converted by an alternator to electrical energy in the form of Alternating Current (AC) power output by the alternator. Whereas, a power cell based system (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, electrochemical fuel cells, solar cells, etc.) may convert chemical (or solar) energy directly into electrical energy that is output at electrodes of the power cell in the form of Direct Current (DC) power. Additionally, hardware and software components (e.g., circuitry, subsystem controllers, etc.) used in each of these two different types of power sources may also require different controller processes for performing similar operations in the two power sources (e.g., input / output control signal format, communication protocols, etc.).

[0011] To that end, some examples provided herein enable controlling different types of power sources in an integrated manner. Further, some examples herein may enable improving performance and/or efficiency aspects of some power applications, such as applications that involve using different types of power sources to control power delivered to a shared load for instance. In one example, a system is configured to control a first type of power source (e.g., hydrogen fuel cell system) to simulate operations (e.g., power application features such as ramping voltage levels or managing share of load based on amount of remaining fuel, etc.) associated with control logic used to control a second type of power source (e.g., genset). Advantageously, with this arrangement, some automation features and efficiency aspects (e.g., predefined control logic, user interface, etc.) associated with a power system that uses a combination of power sources having a same type (e.g., gensets) may still be achieved (similarly or substantially) if the power system instead uses a combination of different types of power sources (e.g., gensets and hydrogen fuel cells).

[0012] Figure 1 is a simplified block diagram of an example system 100 for controlling and monitoring one or more power sources 110, 120, 130, according to an example embodiment. As shown, the system 100 includes a controller 102, a plurality of power sources 110, 120, 130, an inverter system 140, a power bus interface 150, a display 160, a computer 170, a mobile device 180, and a network 190. Data and other information can be communicated between various components of the system 100 and/or one or more other network devices connected to the network 190 (e.g., the Internet). Additionally, the data and other information may be passed to local data storage (not shown) or remote storage (not shown) over a cloud interface (not shown) accessible to the system 100 via the network 190. In alternative examples, the system 100 may include any different combination and/or any different quantity of the power sources 110, 120, and 130 than the combination and quantity shown in the illustrated example of Figure 1. For instance, in the illustrated example of Figure 1, the system 100 includes a single genset 110. However, in alternative examples, the system 100 may instead include more gensets or no gensets. Similarly, in some alternative examples, the system 100 may include fewer or more of any of the power sources 120 and 130.

[0013] In some examples, the controller 102 may be installed at a facility in a control room near one or more of the power sources 110, 120, 130. In some examples, one or more of the power sources 110, 120, 130 may include various sensors in communication with the controller 102. In some examples, the controller 102 can be implemented using any combination of hardware components, software components, digital circuitry, and/or analog circuitry wired and/or otherwise configured to perform the functions of the controller 102 described in the present disclosure. For example, the controller 102 may include a processor (not shown) configured to execute program instructions stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium (not shown) to cause the system 100 to operate in accordance with the present disclosure. In the illustrated example of Figure 1, the controller 102 is shown to include a single controller. In alternative examples, the controller 102 is physically implemented as multiple separate controllers in communication with one another and/or with one or more other components of the system 100. More generally, in some examples, the on-site controller 102 may include or may be connected to other devices and other controllers, breakers, communication bridges, etc. that can provide additional monitoring and/or control capabilities.

[0014] The power source 110 may also be referred to herein as a genset 100. In some examples, as noted above, the genset 110 may include an engine (e.g., diesel engine, gas engine, etc.) that actuates an alternator to generate AC power at an output of the alternator. In an example, the power source or genset 110 includes a combustion engine that receives (e.g., via a fuel injection process, etc.) a gas fuel (e.g., hydrogen), a liquid fuel, or a combination of gas and liquid fuels.

[0015] The power source 120 may also be referred to herein as a power storage system 120. In the illustrated example of Figure 1, power source 120 includes one or more batteries 122. The battery 122 includes one or more power cells, exemplified by power cells 122a and 122b, that are configured to convert chemical energy (e.g., hydrogen fuel, other fuel, etc.) into electrical energy at electrodes (not shown) of the power cells 122a and 122b. A non-exhaustive list of example power cells 122a, 122b includes: hydrogen fuel cells, electrochemical cells, and/or galvanic cells, among other examples.

[0016] The power sources 130 may also be referred to herein as renewable energy systems 130. As shown, the renewable energy systems 130 include a wind turbine power generation system 132 and a solar power system 134. The solar power system 134 includes one or more solar cells, exemplified by solar cells 134a an 134b, which may include any types of photovoltaic cells or other power cells that convert solar energy (e.g., light) into electrical energy output at electrodes (not shown) of the solar cells 134a and 134b.

[0017] The inverter system 140 may include one or more AC/DC inverters configured to convert DC power output from one or more power sources of the system 100 (e.g., power source 120, power source 134, etc.) into AC power. The inverter system 140 may include additional components as well, such as an inverter controller (not shown), switches, contactors, and/or other circuitry.

[0018] The power bus interface 150 includes one or more electrical components (e.g., load contactors, circuit breakers, wiring, etc.) used to connect one or more of the power sources 110, 120, 132, 134, and/or an external power grid (not shown) in parallel to a power bus (not shown) that provides power from any of the connected resources to a shared load. It is noted that although the power bus interface 150 is shown in Figure 1 as a single component, in some examples, the power bus interface 150 (and/or one or more components thereof) may alternatively be physically implemented within one or more other components (e.g., the controller 102, the inverter system 140, etc.) of the system 100.

[0019] The display 160 may include any type of display (e.g., liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED) display, touch screen, etc.) configured to present outputs from the controller 102 (e.g., measurements of sensors in any of the power sources 110, 120, 130, etc.) and/or to provide a user interface of the controller 102 to an operator (e.g., technician, etc.) of the system 100 so that the operator can interact with the controller 102 and/or other components of the system 100. In the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the display 160 is configured as an independent component of system 100 that is connected (e.g., via a wired and/or wireless connection) to the controller 102. In alternate examples, such as the example illustrated in Fig. 3, the display 160 is integrated in the controller 102. [0020] Similarly, the computer 170 and/or the mobile device 180 can be used to provide data and other information to a user of the system 100, or to provide a user interface to the user for monitoring and/or inputting operation parameter for operating one or more components of the system 100 (e.g., the power sources 110, 120, 130, the inverter system 140, the power bus interface 150, etc.).

[0021] Figure 2 illustrates an example implementation of the genset 110 of Figure 1. In the illustrated example of Figure 2, the genset 110 includes an engine 202 and an alternator 204. The engine 202 may include any type of engine that generates mechanical energy from by consuming a fuel, such as a combustion engine (e.g., diesel engine, gas engine, or other engine that uses a combination of gaseous and liquid fuels) or any other type of engine. In an example where the combustion engine 102 consumes one or more gaseous and/or liquid fuels, the controller 102 (shown in Fig. 1) is configured to control amounts, ratios, and/or other parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc.) of the fuel(s) injected into (or otherwise consumed) by the combustion engine 202.

[0022] The mechanical energy from the engine 202 is then transformed into electrical energy by the alternator 204 that is outputted by the alternator 204 as AC power. In the illustrated example of Figure 2, the genset 110 also includes a plurality of sensors such as a battery monitor 210, an alternator winding temperature sensor 220, a lube oil quality monitor 230, a structural vibration sensor 240, a coolant temperature sensor 250, a bearing failure sensor 260, an exhaust temperature sensor 270, and a lube oil pressure sensor 280, etc. In some examples, the genset 110 may alternatively or additionally include other sensors such as an ambient temperature sensor, a throttle position sensor, an air filter pressure sensor, and a gas flow sensor. Outputs of the various sensors of the genset 110 (as well as other sensors of the other power sources 120, 130) can be monitored by the controller 102 of Figure 1 to facilitate optimizing the performance of the various power sources and/or detecting failures or other potential faults in the power sources.

[0023] Figure 3 illustrates an example implementation of the system 100 of Figure 1. It is noted that some of the components (e.g., power sources 110, 130, etc.) of the system 100 are omitted from the illustration of Figure 3 for convenience in description.

[0024] In the illustrated example of Figure 3, the controller 102 includes a power sources control module 312, a mains control module 314, a communications module 316, and a display 160. It is noted that the various blocks illustrated in Figure 3 can be implemented using fewer or more physical components. In an example, each of the modules 312, 314, and/or 316 can be physically implemented as separate devices (e.g., each module implemented as a separate controller that include a processor and a memory, etc.). In an alternative example, the functions of one or more of the modules 312, 314, and/or 316 can be physically implemented by a single controller. Other implementations are possible as well.

[0025] The power sources control module 312 (also referred to herein as a measurement module 312, a power source controller 312, or a controller 312) may be configured to generate control signals for controlling the power sources 110 (shown in Figure 1), 120, and/or 130, to process sensor measurements received from sensors of any of the power sources, to process outputs for display in the display 160, and/or to process inputs received from an operator via a user interface of the controller 102 (e.g., the display 160, a control pad, etc.). In some examples, the module 312 also selectively connects one or more of the power sources 110, 120, and/or 130 to a power bus (e.g., power bus 352) so that the connected power sources can share a load (not shown) via the power bus. A non-exhaustive list of example power source control operations managed or controlled by the module 312 include: sequence of operations to start or stop power generation by a power source, ramp up voltage regulation (e.g., when starting an inverter or other electronic component associated with a power source), voltage and frequency synchronization of the power outputs of one or more power sources connected to a power bus (e.g., power bus 352), load sharing, voltage-ampere reactive (VAR) sharing between the power sources connected to the power bus, and/or other power management operations, among other examples.

[0026] The mains control module 314 (also referred to herein as a microgrid controller 314, a grid controller 314, or a controller 314) may be configured as a protection or supervision controller that facilitates selectively connecting an external power grid (e.g., mains grid, utility grid, etc.) to the power bus 352 and/or the power outputs of any of the power sources 110, 120, and/or 130. For example, the module 314 can operate one or more switches, load contactors, and/or circuit breakers to selectively connect or disconnect the external power grid to any of the power sources selected by the module 312 (and connected to the power bus 352). [0027] The communication module 316 (also referred to herein as a communication interface 316, communication bridge 316, or communication gateway 316) may include any combination of hardware or software wired and/or configured to facilitate communication between the controller 102 and one or more other components of the system 100 (e.g., the power sources 110, 120, the inverter system 140, etc.). For example, module 316 can be configured as a communication and/or bus gateway, that transmits control instructions from the power sources module 312 according to an communications protocol (e.g., control area network (CAN) bus, ModBus, transfer control protocol (TCP), etc.) compatible with any particular component of the system 100. For example, the communication gateway / bridge 316 may be configured to transform control instructions from a first format (e.g., binary signals, CAN bus signal, etc.) the power sources control module 312 to a second format (e.g., analog signal, ModBus signal, etc.) before transmitting the transformed control signal to the inverter system 140. Communication module 316 may also include other types of hardware or software components (e.g., cellular communication module, Ethernet communication module, and/or a wireless communication module such as a WiFi communication module) to facilitate communication between the controller 102 and other components of system 100 or other external devices (e.g., via the network 190 of Figure 1).

[0028] In some examples, the power source 120 may include one or more power cells (e.g., hydrogen fuel cell, battery 122, etc.) as well as power source circuitry (e.g., a power source controller, a DC/DC converter, etc.) . In an example, the power source 120 is configured to operate according to control signals received from the controller 102 to generate and/or regulate a DC power output of the power source 120.

[0029] In some examples, the inverter system 140 includes an inverter, an inverter controller, and/or a load contactor. The inverter system 140 may also include other circuitry (e.g., transformers, etc.) to facilitate converting DC power output from the power source 120 into an AC power output and/or modulating the AC power output according to control instructions received from the controller 102. For example, an inverter controller (not shown) of the inverter system 140 can control a voltage ramp up operation of an inverter of the inverter system 140 based on control signals received from the controller 102. As another example, the inverter controller can operate various circuitry in the inverter system 140 (based on the control instructions received from the controller 102) to synchronize voltage and/or frequency characteristics of the AC power output of the inverter system 140 with corresponding voltage and/or frequency characteristics of AC power outputs associated with other power sources (e.g., power sources 110, 130, etc.) of the system 100 and/or with corresponding power characteristics of an external power grid (not shown) connected in parallel with the power source 120 / inverter 140 via the power bus 352. In some examples, a load contactor of the inverter system 140 may be controlled by the controller 102 to selectively connect the power source 120 with the power bus 352, in line with the discussion above.

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic view of another example implementation of the controller 102. As illustrated in the example of Figure 4, the controller 102 may also include a processor 410, a memory 420, a power supply 430, a battery 432, a control pad 436, one or more other Input/Output (IO) devices 438, genset control logic 460, and integration logic 470.

[0031] The processor 410 includes one or more processors configured to executed program instructions (not shown) stored in the memory 420 to cause the controller 102 to perform the various functions of the controller described in the present disclosure. To that end, the memory 420 may include any type of memory (e.g., volatile or non-volatile) suitable for the processor 410. For example, the program instructions executable by the processor 410 may be stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium of the memory 420. In some examples, one or more of the functions described for the power sources module 312, the mains control module 314, the communications module 316, the genset control logic 460, and/or the integration logic 470 can be implemented as program instructions stored in the memory 420 and executable by the processor 410. In alternative examples, the modules 312, 314, 316, the logic 460, and/or 470 can be implemented using separate physical devices (e.g., hardware components, software components, analog or digital circuitry, etc.) wired to perform the respective functions of these various components.

[0032] The battery 432 and the power supply 430 can be configured to provide power for the various components of the controller 102.

[0033] The I/O device(s) 438 may include one or more other types of input / output devices (e.g., speakers, microphones, etc.) configured to receive input from a user of the controller 102 and/or provide output to the user. In some examples, the I/O device(s) 438 include a device that is connected to the controller 102 (and/or the processor 410) via a wired and/or wireless connection. In an example, the I/O devices 438 include speakers. In this example, the speakers 438 may emit audible signals to indicate when an alarm condition is present or when a failure event is predicted, to provide audible instructions to a technician / operator, or to indicate a selection on the control pad 436.

[0034] A technician (e.g., human operator) may monitor operation outputs, control operational parameters of the power sources (e.g., genset 110, solar cells 134, wind turbine 136, power cells 122, etc.), edit set points, start or stop the power source, configure inputs and outputs, access and review alarm information and other event history information through the controller 102. For example, a technician may monitor fuel levels, voltages, alternator / inverter parameters, lube oil, vibrations, bearings, temperatures, alternator or inverter rotation speeds, power outputs, etc. from various monitors, sensors and gauges of any of the power sources 110, 120, and/or 130 while on-site at a facility of the system 100 using the controller 102. The controller 102 can be used to send control instructions and apply genset operating configurations to the power sources 110, 120, and/or 130. Additionally, the controller 102 can be used to send control instructions and apply operation conditions to any of the power sources 110, 120, and/or 130 illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0035] To facilitate this, in some examples, the controller 102 may store control logic that can be executed to automate and/or provide certain power application features when operating one or more particular types of power sources. For example, the genset control logic 460 can be executed to perform a set of operations (measurements, adjustments, etc.) at a genset-type power source (e.g., the genset 110) to achieve a particular function of a power application (e.g., start the genset 110, stop the genset 110, ramp up the voltage output of the alternator 204, etc.). To that end, the genset control logic 460 can be implemented as program instructions (e.g., stored in the memory 420) and/or as analog / digital circuitry wired to perform the various power application functions of the genset including operator triggered operations (e.g., set point value inputs received via the control pad 436, etc.) as well as automated background features (e.g., load sharing adjustments based on fuel tank measurements from the various power sources, circuit breaker or load contactor operations in response to fault detection, etc.). Although not shown in Figure 4, the controller 102 may include control logic specific to one or more other types of power sources (e.g., wind turbines, etc.) additionally or alternatively to the genset-specific control logic 460.

[0036] In various examples described herein, the controller 102 may also enable the operator to control different types of power sources in an integrated manner. For instance, the controller 102 may provide a user with “standard features” that are compatible with more than one type of power source. To facilitate this, in some examples, the integration logic 470 (when executed) may convert or transform or adapt the genset-specific control logic 460 so that the same or similar functions performed when the genset control logic 406 is executed can also be performed on a different type of power source (e.g., a hydrogen fuel cell power source, etc.). For example, the integration logic 470 can be executed to generated converted control logic executable by the controller 102 to operate power source 120 in a similar manner in which the controller 102 operates the genset 110 when the genset control logic 460 is executed. The integration logic 470 can be implemented similarly to the genset control logic 460 (e.g., program instructions stored in memory 420 and executable by the processor 410, analog / digital circuitry, etc.).

[0037] With this arrangement, in some examples, the controller 102 may enable an operator to manage a power system that uses different types of power sources to power a shared load with little or no extra effort compared to managing a power system that only uses power sources of a single type. For example, an operator familiar with controller features associated with operating a network of gensets can advantageously use the same or similar features to manage a network that includes other types of power sources (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, etc.).

[0038] More generally, in some examples, the controller 102 can provide a user of the system 100 with a variety of standard power application features that can be applied in an integrated manner to manage one or more different types of power sources simultaneously. For example, the controller 102 may provide a user of system 100 with standard programmable controller functions (e.g., setting voltage or frequency levels, load sharing logic based on remaining tank fuel, etc.) that are compatible with different types of power sources. As another example, the controller 102 may provide a user of system 100 with a selectable option (e.g., via user interface / control pad 436), compatible with different types of power sources, for performing a certain power application function (e.g., select measurement units, etc.). To facilitate this, in some examples, the controller 102 can execute the integration logic 470 to transform or mimic or convert or simulate genset-specific power application features associated with the genset control logic 460 into standard power application features that are compatible with a different type of power source.

[0039] One example standard feature (e.g., integrated for use with different types of power sources) provided by the controller 102 in accordance with the present disclosure involves the control of contactors or output breakers. For instance, the genset control logic 460 can be executed to automatically trigger switching off (or disconnecting) the genset 110 (e.g., by switching a load contactor or output circuit breaker, etc.) when measurements of voltage and/or frequency levels at an output of the alternator 204 exceed threshold (or setpoint) values. Similarly, the example standard feature provided by the controller 102 can be used to perform similar control logic on a different power source (e.g., hydrogen fuel cell power source or other type of power cell power source 120), even though the specific control operations or signals required to perform these functions on the power source 120 and/or the inverter system 140 are different (e.g., voltage and frequency levels monitored are output by an inverter instead of an alternator, etc.).

[0040] Another example standard feature includes frequency and voltage regulation and control (e.g., droop control logic, power control logic, load sharing logic, VAR sharing logic, etc.). For instance, the relevant logic for regulating these parameters on genset power sources when genset control logic 460 is executed can be automatically adapted (via integration logic 470) to use similar logic for controlling these parameters on other types of power sources (e.g., hydrogen fuel cell systems, etc.).

[0041] Another example standard feature includes control of coupling a power source for synchronization with an external power grid (e.g., utility grid, mains, etc.). For example, the mains controller 314 can selectively connect the power source 120 to the external power grid by operating a load connector (not shown) between the inverter system 140 of Fig. 3 and the power bus 352. As another example, the microgrid controller 314 (and/or the controller 102) can selectively connect another power source to the external power grid by operating another load connector (not shown). As another example, the microgrid controller 314 (or the controller 102) can selectively connect the system 100 to the external power grid by operating a switch (not shown) between the external power grid and the power bus 352 (in a similar manner as the execution of the genset control logic 460 would control coupling the genset 110 to the external power grid).

[0042] Another example standard feature includes control logic for automatic transition between using an external grid (e.g., mains) and power sources 110, 120, and/or 130 in response to detecting a failure of the external grid.

[0043] Another example standard feature includes control logic for detection and operation of protection device(s) (e.g., protection relays devices, phase overvoltage protection circuitry, etc.) in hardware and/or circuitry associated with a power source.

[0044] Another example standard feature includes control logic for managing measurement units (e.g., kWh, kVarh, kW, kVar, cos phi, f, U, etc.) of various collected measurements.

[0045] Another example standard feature includes control logic for automatic correction of voltage and frequency setpoint values used in control processes (e.g., control loops, etc.) based on relevant measurements (e.g., outputs of any of a battery, an inverter, an alternator, etc., that are relevant for the correction process based on power source architecture, etc.).

[0046] Another example standard feature includes control logic for ramp-up voltage control (e.g., at inverter of a power cell-type power source, at alternator of genset-type power source, etc.).

[0047] Another example standard feature includes control logic for mode selection based on operator input (e.g., active power generation mode, reactive power generation mode, etc.).

[0048] Another example standard feature includes control logic for updating output power voltage and frequency settings (e.g., 400V/50Hz, 440V/60Hz, etc.) in response to receipt of setpoint value inputs from an operator.

[0049] Another example standard feature includes control logic for setting parameters of a power control system associated with a power source (e.g., threshold values, PID parameters, ramp parameters, etc.).

[0050] Another example standard feature includes control logic for management and coordination of start and stop sequences involving related components or sub-systems (e.g., power system 120, inverter system 140, etc.). [0051] Another example standard feature includes control logic for controlling and monitoring execution sequences involving related components or sub-systems (e.g., power system 120, inverter system 140, etc.).

[0052] Another example standard feature includes control logic for conversion and management of various analog and binary signals among subsystems associated with a power source (e.g., controller 102 signals, power source 120 signals, inverter system 140 signals, etc.).

[0053] Another example standard feature includes control logic for management of fuel tank quantities and fuel volumes of different types of power sources in a similar manner (e.g., hydrogen fuel tank quantities and volumes in a hydrogen fuel cell power system versus diesel or gas fuel tank quantities and volumes in a genset). For example, X hours of power generation by a genset may correspond to Y amount of diesel (or gas) fuel consumption, whereas the same X hours of power generation by a hydrogen fuel cell power source may correspond to a different Z amount of hydrogen fuel consumption. Accordingly, for example, the integration logic 470 could be used to automatically and/or adjust control logic to account for different relationships between fuel amounts and expected power generation durations associated with different types of power sources.

[0054] Another example standard feature includes control logic for locking or preventing changes to certain system parameters in certain scenarios (e.g., preventing a start operation for an engine or inverter if the engine or inverter is already running, etc.).

[0055] Another example standard feature includes control logic for correctly switching on or off circuit breakers in proper conditions.

[0056] Other example standard features provided by the controller 102 and compatible with different types of power sources in accordance with the present disclosure are possible as well.

[0057] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an example implementation of the integration logic 470 (or a portion thereof), according to an example embodiment. For example, the illustrated example of Figure 5 may represent a portion of the integration logic 470 that, when executed, transforms signals (received by integration logic 470 at blocks 510 ) from a binary signal format to an analog signal format (output by integration logic 470 at block 530). [0058] Referring back to Figure 3 for example, the example embodiment of the integration logic 470 of Figure 5 can be executed by the controllers 312 and/or 316 to receive binary control signals and/or values (e.g., voltage settings, frequency settings, ramp up settings, etc.) generated by the controllers 312 and/or 316 to control one or more operations of the inverter system 140. For instance, one or more of the inputs at block 510 may correspond to binary signals generated by executing the genset control logic 460 of Figure 4. Continuing with the example of Figure 3, the integration logic 470 of Figure 5 may convert (at blocks 520) the binary signals (received at blocks 510) into a single analog signal (at block 530) that is compatible with an inverter controller of the inverter system 140.

[0059] Thus, for example, genset-specific control logic used to generate one or more of the binary signals 510 (compatible with power source 110) is adapted by the integration logic 470 (at blocks 520) to a format 530 that is compatible with the power source 120 (and/or the inverter system 140). As such, for example, integration logic 470 may enable controller 102 to perform similar functions of the genset-specific control logic to control a different type of power source (e.g., power source 120).

[0060] It is noted that the example of Figure 5 is not meant to be limiting but is simplified for the sake of example. For instance, other example implementations of the integration logic 470 may receive different inputs than inputs 510, include different manipulation processes than those represented by blocks 520, and/or provide different outputs than output 530. For instance, the integration logic 470 can be implemented to provide one or more of the example standard power application features described above in connection with the description of the integration logic 470 of Figure 4.

[0061] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an example method 600 for using genset control logic to operate other types of power sources, according to an example embodiment. Although the example method 600 is described with reference to the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 6, it will be appreciated that many other methods of performing the acts associated with the method 600 may be used. For example, the order of some of the blocks may be changed, certain blocks may be combined with other blocks, and some of the blocks described are optional. The method 600 may be performed by processing logic that may comprise hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software, or a combination of both. [0062] At block 602, method 600 involves operating a power source that outputs DC power drawn from one or more power cells. Referring back to Figure 1 for example, the controller 102 can operate power source 120 (which outputs DC power drawn from power cells 122a, 122b) and/or power source 134 (which output DC power drawn from power cells 134a, 134b). Thus, the power cells at block 602 may include any type of power cells (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, solar cells, electrochemical cells, etc.).

[0063] At block 604, method 600 involves identifying first control logic for operating a genset that outputs AC power drawn from an alternator. Referring back to Figure 4 for example, the controller 102 may identify the genset control logic 460 (e.g., by accessing or obtaining the logic 460 from the memory 420, etc.) or any other genset-specific control logic compatible with genset-type power sources. Thus, in this example, the fist control logic at block 604 may correspond to the genset control logic 460.

[0064] At block 606, method 600 involves generating second control logic based on the first control logic. Referring back to Figure 5 for example, the second control logic can be generated (at block 520) using the integration logic 470 to transform one or more binary signals 510 compatible with a genset (e.g., outputs of the first control logic, etc.) and thus provide output signal 530 to operate a different type of power source (e.g., power source 120) and/or associated sub-systems (e.g., inverter system 140) in a similar manner.

[0065] Accordingly, in some examples, generating the second control logic at block 606 may involve generating control logic for operating the inverter (e.g., the analog signal 530 of Figure 5). Referring back to Figure 3 for example, the controller 102 may execute the control logic to cause the communication interface 316 to communicate with an inverter controller of the inverter system 140 according to a communication protocol (e.g., the analog signal format of signal 530 of Figure 5) of the inverter controller.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, generating the second control logic at block 606 may involve obtaining integration logic (e.g., integration logic 470) that is executable to modify one or more inputs or outputs of the first control logic according to a hardware or software configuration of the power source, in line with the description of the illustrated example of Figure 5.

[0067] At block 608, method 600 involves executing the second control logic to operate the power source. Continuing with the example of Figure 5, the signal 530 (or any other signal generated at block 606 ) can be used to operate the power source 120 and/or the inverter system 14, in line with the discussion above.

[0068] In some examples, method 600 may also involve executing the first control logic of block 604 (e.g., genset control logic 460) to operate a second power source (e.g., genset 110) compatible with the first control logic.

[0069] In some examples, method 600 may also involve selectively connecting, in parallel, two or more power sources (e.g., power sources 110 and 120) to a power bus (e.g., power bus 350). Referring back to Figure 3 for example, the controller 102 can decide whether to connect one or more of the power sources 110, 120, 130 to connect with power bus 350 depending on a variety of factors (e.g., power demands of a load connected to the power bus, performance optimization, availability of power from an external grid, etc.).

[0070] Alternatively or additionally, in some examples, method 600 may involve selectively connecting the power source of block 602 and an external power grid in parallel. Continuing with the example of Figure 3, the controller 314 can control a load contactor (not shown) to selectively connect the external power grid (not shown) to the power bus 352, and/or the controller 312 can control a load contactor (not shown) of the inverter system 140 to selectively connect the power source 120 to the power bus 352. Thus, for instance, the controller 102 can connect the power source 120 and the external power grid in parallel by connecting them to the power bus 352. Alternatively, for instance, the controller 102 can disconnect the power source 120 from the external power grid by disconnecting the power source 120from the power bus 352 (or by disconnecting the external power grid from the power bus 352, etc.).

[0071] In some examples, processors herein such as processor 410 of Figure 4 may include any device capable of executing instructions encoding arithmetic, logical, and/or I/O operations. In one example, the processor 410 may use a Von Neumann architectural model and may include an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”), a control unit, and a plurality of registers. In some examples, the processor 410 may be a single core processor which is typically capable of executing one instruction at a time (or process a single pipeline of instructions), or a multi-core processor which may simultaneously execute multiple instructions. In some examples, the processor 410 may be implemented as a single integrated circuit, two or more integrated circuits, or may be a component of a multi-chip module (e.g., in which individual microprocessor dies are included in a single integrated circuit package and hence share a single socket). In some examples, the processor 410 may be referred to as a central processing unit (“CPU”). Additionally, in some examples, the processor 410 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller or microcontroller unit (“MCU”).

[0072] As discussed herein, a memory device or memory 420 refers to a volatile or non-volatile memory device, such as random access memory (“RAM”), read-only memory (“ROM”), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), or any other device capable of storing data. The processors 410 and/or the memory 420 may be interconnected using a variety of techniques, ranging from a point-to-point processor interconnect, to a system area network, such as an Ethernet-based network.

[0073] Aspects of the subject matter described herein may be useful alone or in combination with one or more other aspects described herein.

[0074] In a first exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a system includes a power source that outputs direct current (DC) power drawn from one or more power cells. The system also includes a controller coupled to the power source. The controller is configured to: obtain first control logic executable by the controller to operate a genset that outputs alternating current (ac) power drawn from an alternator of the genset; generate, based on the first control logic, second control logic executable by the controller to operate the power source; and execute the second control logic to operate the power source.

[0075] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the one or more power cells are one or more hydrogen fuel cells.

[0076] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the one or more power cells are one or more solar cells.

[0077] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the one or more power cells are one or more electrochemical cells.

[0078] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the one or more power cells are one or more fuel cells. [0079] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the power source draws the de power from a battery that includes the one or more power cells.

[0080] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the system includes an inverter to convert the DC power output by the power source to AC power.

[0081 ] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the controller is further configured to generate, based on the first control logic, inverter control logic for operating the inverter, where generating the second control logic includes generating the inverter control logic.

[0082] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the system includes a communication interface and the controller is further configured to execute the inverter control logic to cause the communication interface to communicate with an inverter controller according to a communication protocol of the inverter controller.

[0083] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the system includes a plurality of power sources, where the power source is a first power source of the plurality and the genset is a second power source of the plurality. The second power source is to output the AC power drawn from the alternator of the genset. The controller is coupled to the second power source and the controller is further configured to execute the first control logic to operate the second power source.

[0084] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the controller is further configured to: selectively connect, in parallel, at least two of the plurality of power sources to a power bus.

[0085] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the controller is further configured to: obtain, from the memory, integration logic executable by the controller to modify one or more inputs or outputs of the first control logic according to a hardware or software configuration of the power source; and execute the integration logic to generate the second control logic.

[0086] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the controller is further configured to: selectively connect, in parallel, the power source and an external power grid.

[0087] In accordance with another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, which may be used in combination with any one or more of the preceding aspects, the system includes a plurality of power sources, and a first power source includes a combustion engine, wherein the combustion engine consumes a first fuel and a second fuel, and the first control logic is executable by the controller to control a ratio of an amount of the first fuel relative to an amount of the second fuel provided to the combustion engine.

[0088] The many features and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the written description, and thus, the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the present disclosure is not limited to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Therefore, the described embodiments should be taken as illustrative and not restrictive, and the disclosure should not be limited to the details given herein but should be defined by the following claims and their full scope of equivalents, whether foreseeable or unforeseeable now or in the future.

[0089] To the extent that any of these aspects are mutually exclusive, it should be understood that such mutual exclusivity shall not limit in any way the combination of such aspects with any other aspect whether or not such aspect is explicitly recited. Any of these aspects may be claimed, without limitation, as a system, method, apparatus, device, medium, etc.

[0090] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the example embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A system comprising: a plurality of power sources including at least a first power source and a second power source, wherein the first power source is a genset that outputs Alternating Current (AC) power drawn from an alternator of the genset, and wherein the second power source outputs Direct Current (DC) power drawn from one or more power cells; and a controller coupled to the plurality of power sources, the controller configured to: obtain first control logic executable by the controller to operate the genset; generate, based on the first control logic, second control logic executable by the controller to operate the second power source; and execute the second control logic to operate the power source.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more power cells are one or more hydrogen fuel cells.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more power cells are one or more solar cells.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more power cells are one or more electrochemical cells.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more power cells are one or more fuel cells.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second power source draws the DC power from a battery that includes the one or more power cells.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an inverter to convert the DC power output by the second power source to AC power.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to: generate, based on the first control logic, inverter control logic for operating the inverter, wherein generating the second control logic includes generating the inverter control logic.

9. The system of claim 7, further comprising: a communication interface to communicate with an inverter controller of the inverter, and wherein the controller is further configured to execute the inverter control logic to cause the communication interface to communicate with the inverter controller according to a communication protocol of the inverter controller.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: selectively connect, in parallel, one or more of the plurality of power sources to a power bus.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to: obtain, from a memory, integration logic executable by the controller to modify one or more inputs or outputs of the first control logic according to a hardware or software configuration of the second power source; and execute the integration logic to generate the second control logic.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: selectively connect, in parallel, one or more of the plurality of power sources with an external power grid.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the first power source includes a combustion engine, wherein the combustion engine consumes a first fuel and a second fuel, and wherein the first control logic is executable by the controller to control a ratio of an amount of the first fuel relative to an amount of the second fuel provided to the combustion engine.