• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
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  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    An electric power output apparatus (2) comprising: - an electric motor (8) configured to generate electric power; - a combustion engine (4) mechanically connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a connection structure (6, 30); - an electric energy storage (10) electrically connected to the electric motor (8) and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor (8); - an electric generator (14) connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a connection structure (6´), wherein the electric generator (14) is configured to generate an alternating current (AC); - a regulator unit (12) electrically connected to the electric energy storage (10) and the electric motor (8), wherein the regulator unit (12) is configured to supply the electric motor (8) with electric power. The power output apparatus (2) comprises: - a coupling (30) configured to couple and uncouple the electric motor (8) and the combustion engine (4); - a control unit (20) comprising or connected to the regulator unit (12). The control unit (20) is configured to: a) determine the electric energy capacity (C) of the electric energy storage (10); b) turn on and off the combustion engine (4) and c) control the coupling (30) by coupling and uncoupling the electric motor (8) and the combustion engine (4).
    公开号:DK201800224A1
    申请号:DKP201800224
    申请日:2018-05-18
    公开日:2020-01-09
    发明作者:Ulrich Zülau Palle
    申请人:Zülau A/S；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Electric Power Output Apparatus
    Field of invention
    The present invention relates to an electric power output apparatus comprising a combustion engine and a generator configured to generate an alternating current.
    Prior art
    Electric power output apparatuses are used in several applications including emergency situations (e.g. for backup in hospitals), or on remote areas in which it is not possible to be supplied with electrical power through the power grid (the mains). Thus, typical applications include places without connection to a power grid and as emergency power-supply if the grid fails.
    The typical way of constructing an electric power output apparatus comprising a combustion engine is to combine a combustion engine configured to run on diesel fuel, other liquid fuels or natural gas, with an electric generator.
    It is difficult to provide a proper sizing of the electric power output apparatus in order to avoid low-load or a shortage of power. If the combustion engine is too small, the capacity of it can be critical during peak load. Accordingly, in many applications the combustion engine is selected so that it can deliver the required power even during peak load. The problem is, however, that the combustion engine typically (during the majority of the time) will be driven at a very low load.
    Driving a combustion engine in this way introduces the risk of formation of soot.
    Accordingly, there is a risk of formation of soot in the combustion engine. Moreover, the efficiency of the combustion engine is low when the combustion engine is driving at low loads. Therefore, it would be desirable to have an electric power output apparatus that has a higher efficiency and in which the risk of formation of soot in the combustion
    DK 2018 00224 A1 engine is low.
    It is an object of the present invention to provide an electric power output apparatus that has a higher efficiency than the prior art electric power output apparatuses.
    It is also an object of the present invention to provide an electric power output apparatus, in which the risk of formation of soot in the combustion engine is low.
    Summary of the invention
    The object of the present invention can be achieved by an electric power output apparatus as defined in claim 1 and by a method as defined in claim 7. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent subclaims, explained in the following description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
    The electric power output apparatus according to the invention is an electric power output apparatus comprising:
    - an electric motor configured to generate electric power;
    - a combustion engine mechanically connected to the electric motor by means of a first connection structure;
    - an electric energy storage electrically connected to the electric motor and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor (e.g. by means of a motor converter of the motor);
    - an electric generator connected to the electric motor by means of a connection structure (preferably a second connection structure), wherein the electric generator is configured to generate an alternating current;
    - a regulator unit electrically connected to the electric energy storage and the electric motor, wherein the regulator unit is configured to supply the electric motor with electric power, wherein the power output apparatus comprises:
    - a coupling configured to couple and uncouple the electric motor and the combustion engine;
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    - a control unit comprising or connected to the regulator unit, wherein the control unit is configured to:
    a) determine the electric energy capacity of the electric energy storage;
    b) turn on and off the combustion engine and
    c) control the coupling by coupling and uncoupling the electric motor and the combustion engine.
    Hereby, it is possible to produce electric power in a more efficient manner. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an electric power output apparatus that has a higher efficiency than the prior art electric power output apparatuses. Moreover, the electric power output apparatus is capable of providing a steady supply of electrical power. The electric power output apparatus is capable of delivering a high power level during peak loads.
    The capacity of the electric energy storage may be determined by using any suitable method including indirect determination methods.
    Moreover, it is possible to minimise the formation of soot in the combustion engine as the combustion engine can be driven smoothly and stably at a high load with improved purification of exhaust gas, fuel consumption and output.
    The electric motor comprises a motor converter that is configured to generate electric power. Thus, the electric motor is configured to function as a generator that converts motive power (mechanical energy) into electrical power. At the same time the electric motor is configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy (rotation of the shaft of the electric motor). The electric motor may be of any suitable type and size. In one embodiment, the electric motor is a permanent-magnet motor. In one embodiment, the motor is an alternating current (AC) motor. In another embodiment, the motor is a direct current (DC) motor.
    The combustion engine may be of any suitable type and size. It is
    DK 2018 00224 A1 preferred that the combustion engine is dimensioned in such a manner that its energy production capacity is sufficiently large to meet the requirements of the energy requirements from the consuming system that is supplied with electric power generated by the electric power output apparatus.
    The combustion engine may be any suitable type of combustion engine, in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer (e.g. air) in a combustion chamber. Expansion of high-temperature and high-pressure gases produced during the combustion forces one or more structures (e.g. pistons, turbine blades, a nozzle or a rotor) to move over a distance. Hereby, the chemical energy of the fuel is transformed into mechanical energy.
    In one embodiment, the combustion engine is a diesel engine.
    In another embodiment, the combustion engine is a petrol engine.
    In a further embodiment, the combustion engine is a gas engine.
    In an even further embodiment, the combustion engine is a fuel cell or comprises a fuel cell of any suitable type. The fuel cell may be a proton exchange membrane fuel cells, a phosphoric acid fuel cell, a solid acid fuel cell, an alkaline fuel cell, a high-temperature fuel cell or a molten carbonate fuel cell.
    The combustion engine is mechanically connected to the electric motor by means of a first connection structure. The first structure is preferably a mechanical structure configured to mechanically transfer mechanical energy from the combustion engine to the electric motor.
    In one embodiment, the first connection structure is a shaft.
    In one embodiment, the first connection structure comprises several components. Several components may include corresponding engaging
    DK 2018 00224 A1 components such as engaging gear wheels. The first connection structure may include a shaft. In one embodiment, the connection structure comprises a threaded wheel (a gear) and a corresponding structure (e.g. a threaded belt, a chain or a threaded configured to engage with the treaded wheel. In another embodiment, the first connection structure comprises a cardan shafts.
    In one embodiment, the first connection structure comprises several components including a toothed belt or a chain that engages two toothed wheels.
    The combustion engine, the electric motor and the electric generator may be arranged in any suitable manner relative to each other.
    In one embodiment, the combustion engine and the electric motor may be vertically displaced from another. In another embodiment, the combustion engine and the electric motor may be horizontally displaced from another.
    In one embodiment, the electric motor and the electric generator may be vertically displaced relative to each other. In another embodiment, the electric motor and the electric generator may be horizontally displaced relative to each other.
    In one embodiment, the combustion engine and the electric generator may be vertically displaced from another. In another embodiment, the combustion engine and the electric generator may be horizontally displaced from another.
    The electric energy storage may be of any suitable type, capacity and size.
    In a preferred embodiment, the electric energy storage comprises a battery.
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    In a preferred embodiment, the electric energy storage comprises several batteries constituting a battery bank.
    The electric energy storage is electrically connected to (preferably a motor converter of) the electric motor and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor.
    The electric generator may be of any suitable type and size and is connected to the electric motor by means of a connection structure (preferably a second). The electric generator is configured to convert motive power (mechanical energy) into electrical power and thus generate an alternating current. The connection structure may include a shaft. In one embodiment, the connection structure comprises a threaded wheel (a gear) and a corresponding structure (e.g. a threaded belt, a chain or a threaded configured to engage with the treaded wheel. In another embodiment, the connection structure comprises a cardan shafts.
    The regulator unit is electrically connected to the electric energy storage and may be of any suitable type and size. The regulator unit is preferably configured to convert an alternating current to a direct current to be stored in the electric energy storage.
    The regulator unit is configured to convert a direct current delivered from the electric energy storage into an alternating current to be supplied to the electric generator with electric power.
    The coupling may be of any suitable type and size as long as it is configured to couple and uncouple the electric motor and the combustion engine. Thus, the coupling may be mechanical, electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic. The coupling may include corresponding mechanical structures configured to be brought into and out of engagement with each other.
    In one embodiment, the coupling comprises a magnetic drive. The
    DK 2018 00224 A1 magnetic drive may comprise an electrically controlled electro-magnet.
    The coupling may comprise an actuator. Said actuator may be electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic.
    The control unit comprises or is connected to the regulator unit. The control unit may be of any suitable type. In one embodiment, the control unit is an electric control unit.
    The control unit is configured to:
    a) determine the electric energy capacity of the electric energy storage;
    b) turn on and off the combustion engine and
    c) control the coupling by coupling and uncoupling the electric motor and the combustion engine.
    Furthermore, the control unit makes it possible to provide a steady supply of electrical power and to deliver a high power level during peak loads by using the electric power output apparatus.
    The determination of the electric energy capacity of the electric energy storage may be carried out by means of one or more sensors. The capacity of the electric energy storage may be determined by using any suitable method including indirect determination methods.
    In one embodiment, the capacity of the electric energy storage is determined by using an electric energy storage (e.g. a battery) management shunt that is configured to record all charging and discharging currents and the voltage of the electric energy storage. After an initial synchronization, it is possible to calculate the battery status by using the shunt. The shunt is preferably configured to constantly monitor the electric energy storage for full charge, a critical state of charge and complete discharge. The shunt is preferably configured to detect current, voltage and time.
    The combustion engine can be turned on and off by means of an actuator or another control structure (e.g. an electric control structure).
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    In one embodiment, the electric power output apparatus comprises an auxiliary charger. The auxiliary charger may be or comprise a solar unit comprising one or more solar panels (e.g. photovoltaic solar panels), wind turbines or underwater turbines. By electrically connecting the auxiliary charger to the electric energy storage, it is possibly to apply renewable energy as an energy source for the electric power output apparatus.
    It may be advantageous that the electric motor is configured to convert electrical energy provided by the electric energy storage into mechanical energy and to convert mechanical energy into electrical power.
    Hereby, it is possible to use the electric motor both to drive the electric generator and to convert mechanical energy into electrical power to be stored in the electric energy storage.
    It may be beneficial that the power output apparatus comprises a motor drive (e.g. a frequency converter) configured to:
    a) convert a current (e.g. an alternating current(AC)) from the electric motor to a current (e.g. a direct current) to be stored in the electric energy storage and
    b) convert a direct current from the electric energy storage to a current (e.g. an AC) to drive the electric motor.
    By applying a frequency converter, it is possible to drive the electric generator very accurately so that an alternating current having a constant frequency can be delivered. This is of great importance in many applications.
    It may be beneficial that the power output apparatus comprises one or more sensors arranged and configured to measure one or more parameters of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine.
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises one
    DK 2018 00224 A1 or more sensors arranged and configured to measure one or more temperature and/or pressure.
    Hereby, it is possible to optimize the way the electrical motor is driven. The one or more parameters of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine to be measured may include oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and/or carbon monoxide (CO) and/or nitrous oxides (NOx) and/or water (H2O).
    In one embodiment, the electric power output apparatus comprises a sensor configured to measure the content of O2, CO2 and/or CO, and/or H20 and/or NOx in the exhaust gas. The sensor may also be configured to detect the temperature and/or the humidity of the exhaust gas. It is preferred that the sensor is connected to the control unit and thus configured to supply the control unit with data collected by the sensor.
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises a capacity detection member configured to detect the capacity of the electric energy storage.
    Hereby, it is possible to regulate the power output apparatus on the basis of the capacity of the electric energy storage. Moreover, total or close to total discharge of the power output apparatus can be avoided.
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises a detection structure configured to measure the power output of the generator.
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises a sensor configured to measure the current of the generator.
    In one embodiment, the power output apparatus comprises a
    Sensor or unit configured to measure the frequency (e.g. the frequency/speed of the electrical motor and/or the generator).
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises a sensor configured to measure the voltage of the generator.
    It may be an advantage that the power output apparatus comprises a sensor configured to measure the temperature of the generator.
    It may be an advantage that the electric motor is a permanent magnet motor.
    It may be advantageous that the first connection structure comprises a first shaft and that the second connection structure is formed as a shaft extending parallel to the first shaft.
    Hereby, it is possible to provide an electric power output apparatus, in which mechanical energy can be transferred between the combustion engine and the electric motor and between the electric motor and the electric generator in an efficient manner.
    The method according to the invention is a method for producing an alternating current by using an electric power output apparatus comprising:
    - an electric motor configured to generate electric power;
    - a combustion engine mechanically connected to the electric motor by means of a connection structure;
    - an electric energy storage electrically connected to the electric motor and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor;
    - a generator connected to the electric motor by means of a connection structure, wherein the generator is configured to generate an alternating current;
    - a regulator unit electrically connected to the electric energy storage and the electric motor, wherein the regulator unit is configured to supply the motor with electric power, wherein the method comprises the step of mechanically decoupling the combustion engine from the electric motor when the capacity of the
    DK 2018 00224 A1 electric energy storage exceeds a predefined level.
    Hereby, it is possible to drive the combustion engine a high load and only keep the combustion engine running, when electric power is required to be supplied to the electric energy storage.
    It is possible to increase the power of the combustion engine by connecting several combustion motors.
    It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of turning on the combustion engine when the capacity of the electric energy storage is below a predefined level or when a power consumption exceeding a predefined level is detected during a time period exceeding a predefined length.
    Hereby, it is possible to apply the combustion engine to deliver mechanical power to drive the electric motor so that the electric motor can generate electric energy to be supplied to the electric energy storage.
    The power consumption is preferably the power consumption corresponding to the consumer to which the electric power output apparatus supplies electric power. In one embodiment, the power consumption is measured as the power supplied by the electric power output apparatus. In one embodiment, the predefined length is 10 minutes. In another embodiment, the predefined length is 15 minutes. In a further embodiment, the predefined length is 20 minutes. In an even further embodiment, the predefined length is 25 minutes.
    It may be beneficial that the method comprises the step of detecting one or more parameters of the gas exhaust of the combustion engine and regulating the combustion engine on the basis of the one or more detected parameters. These parameters may be a gas concentration (e.g. CO, CO2 or O2) in the exhaust gas, one or more pressure value or a temperature.
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    Hereby, it is possible to enhance the way the combustion engine is driven.
    It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of increasing the load on the combustion engine when a predefined gas content of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine exceeds a predefined level and/or that the method comprises the step of decreasing the load on the combustion engine when a predefined gas content of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine is below a predefined level.
    Hereby, the way of driving the combustion engine can be optimised.
    Description of the Drawings
    The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only, and thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:
    Fig. 1A shows a prior art electric power output apparatus;
    Fig. 1B shows an electric power output apparatus according to the invention;
    Fig. 2A shows a curve depicting the electric power consumption as function of time;
    Fig. 2B shows a curve depicting the activity of the combustion engine as function of time;
    Fig. 2C shows a curve depicting the battery capacity as function of time;
    Fig. 3 shows an electric power output apparatus according to the invention;
    Fig. 4A shows a schematic view of a combustion engine of an electric power output apparatus according to the invention;
    Fig. 4B shows a curve depicting the oxygen content of the exhaust
    DK 2018 00224 A1 gas as function of time
    Fig. 5A shows an electric power output apparatus according to the invention and
    Fig. 5A shows another electric power output apparatus according to the invention.
    Detailed description of the invention
    Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention, an electric power output apparatus of the present invention is illustrated in Fig. 1B.
    Fig. 1A illustrates a prior art electric power output apparatus 102 configured to generate electric power. The electric power output apparatus 102 comprises a combustion engine 104 that is mechanically connected to a first electric generator 108 by means of a shaft 106. The first electric generator 108 is electrically connected to an electric energy storage 110 via a cable 116. The electric energy storage 110 comprises one or more batteries.
    The electric energy storage 110 is electrically connected to a regulator 118 via a cable 116' and is configured to convert direct current from the electric energy storage 110 to an alternating current for driving an electric motor 112 via a cable 116''. The electric motor 112 is mechanically connected to a second generator 114' by means of a shaft 106'.
    The efficiency of the electric power output apparatus 102 depends on the number of times energy is converted from one form to another. A first energy loss is introduced when mechanical energy produced by the combustion engine 104 is mechanically connected to the first generator 108. A second loss takes place when the alternating current produced by the first generator 108 is converted (by a converter that is not shown) to a direct current stored in the electric energy storage 110.
    Furthermore, an energy loss is introduced by the regulator when the direct current from the electric energy storage 110 is converted to an
    DK 2018 00224 A1 alternating current delivered to the electric motor 112. An additional energy loss is caused by the conversion of mechanical energy of the electric motor 112 to the generator 114. In addition, the combustion engine 104, the first generator 108, the electric motor 112 as well as the second generator 114 give rise to energetic losses during transmission of mechanical energy via the shaft 106. If cooling is provided an additional loss is introduced. Accordingly, it would be beneficial to have an alternative electric power output apparatus having a higher efficiency.
    An electric power output apparatus 2 having a higher efficiency is illustrated in Fig. 1B that shows an electric power output apparatus 2 according to the invention. The electric power output apparatus 2 comprises a combustion engine 4 mechanically connected to the electric motor 8 by means of a connection structure formed as a shaft 6 and a coupling 30. The coupling 30 is configured to couple and uncouple the electric motor 8 and the combustion engine 4.
    The electric power output apparatus 2 also comprises an electric energy storage 10 comprising a number of batteries. The electric energy storage 10 is electrically connected to the electric motor 8 and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor 8 that also functions as a generator configured to generate electric power (electricity).
    The electric power output apparatus 2 further comprises a generator 14 that is connected to the electric motor 8 by means of a connection structure formed as a shaft 6'. The generator 14 is configured to generate an alternating current AC as illustrated in the coordinate system next to the generator 14. The AC curve shown in the coordinate system illustrates the current I versus time T.
    The electric power output apparatus 2 additionally comprises a regulator unit 12 that is electrically connected to the electric energy storage 10 by means of cables 16, 16'. The regulator unit 12 is
    DK 2018 00224 A1 electrically connected to the electric motor/generator 8 by means of wired connections 18, 18'. The regulator 12 is a frequency converter configured to convert the alternating current from the motor/generator 8 to a direct current to be stored in the electric energy storage 10. The frequency converter is also configured to convert the direct current from the electric energy storage 10 to an alternating current to drive the motor/generator 8.
    The power output apparatus 2 comprises a control unit 20 configured to:
    a) determine the electric energy capacity of the electric energy storage 10;
    b) turn on and off the combustion engine 4 and
    c) control the coupling 30 by coupling and uncoupling the electric motor 8 and the combustion engine 4.
    Hereby, it is possible to produce electric power in a more efficient manner. Moreover, it is possible to minimise the formation of soot in the combustion engine 4, as the combustion engine 4 can be driven smoothly and stably at a high load with improved purification of exhaust gas, fuel consumption and output.
    By means of the coupling 30, it is possible to couple the electric motor 8 and the combustion engine 4, when the combustion engine 4 has to deliver mechanical power to drive the electric motor/generator 8. Likewise, the coupling 30 can be used to uncouple the electric motor 8 and the combustion engine 4, when the combustion engine 4 has to be turned off and the electric energy storage 10 delivers all the energy to drive the electric motor/generator 8. In one embodiment, the combustion engine 4 will be turned off when the capacity of the electric energy storage 10 exceeds a predefined level. Accordingly, the electric energy storage 10 is used as an energy bank.
    It is possible to deliver a large supply power by using both the combustion engine 4 and the electric energy storage 10 to energise the
    DK 2018 00224 A1 electric motor 8.
    The control unit 20 receives control signals from a plurality of sources including sensors. The control unit 20 is electrically connected to the electric energy storage 10 through a cable 22. Hereby, the control unit 20 can be powered by the electric energy storage 10.
    The control unit 20 is configured to detect the capacity (e.g. the ampere hours or the electrical energy content by using a shunt 20') of the electric energy storage 10. In one embodiment, the shunt 20' is configured to record all charging and discharging currents and the voltage of the electric energy storage 10. After an initial synchronization, it is possible to calculate the battery status by using the shunt 20'. In a preferred embodiment, the shunt 20' is configured to constantly monitor the electric energy storage 10 for full charge, a critical state of charge (e.g. 20 % of the total capacity) and complete discharge. The shunt 20' is preferably configured to detect current, voltage and time. In a preferred embodiment, the electric energy storage 10 is logged in a storage of the control unit 20, wherein the data is communicated via the connection 28''.
    In one embodiment, this detection can be accomplished by means of a connection 28'' as indicated by a dotted line. The connection 28'' may include one or more monitoring members such as sensors.
    The control unit 20 is connected to the coupling 30 by means of a cable 24. In a preferred embodiment, the control unit 20 is connected to and configured to control an actuator adapted to control (couple and uncouple) the coupling 30. The actuator may be an electric actuator.
    The control unit 20 is configured to detect one or more parameters of the combustion engine 4. In one embodiment, this detection can be accomplished by means of a connection 28 as indicated by a dotted line. The connection 28 may include one or more monitoring members such as sensors for measuring temperature of the one or more areas of
    DK 2018 00224 A1 the combustion engine 4 or the exhaust gas of the combustion engine
    4. In one preferred embodiment, the connection 28 includes one or more monitoring members such as sensors for measuring oxygen content in the exhaust gas of the combustion engine 4. In another embodiment, the connection 28 includes one or more sensors for measuring the rotational speed of the combustion engine 4. In a further embodiment, the connection 28 includes one or more sensors for measuring the degree of vibration of the combustion engine 4. In an even further embodiment, the connection 28 includes one or more sensors for measuring the level of the noise generated by the combustion engine 4. In one embodiment, the connection 28 includes one or more sensors for measuring one or more parameters of the motor oil quality of the combustion engine 4.
    In one embodiment, it is possible to apply a separate detection unit that is connected to the electric energy storage 10 and provides data regarding the capacity of the electric energy storage 10 wirelessly. Accordingly, the electrical connection between the electric energy storage 10 and the control unit 20 is not required in all embodiments.
    The control unit 20 is configured to detect one or more parameters of the electric motor/generator 8. In one embodiment, this detection can be accomplished by means of a connection 28''' as indicated by a dotted line. The connection 28''' may include one or more monitoring members configured to detect the rotational speed of the electric motor/generator 8, the temperature of the electric motor/generator 8, the level of the noise produced by the electric motor/generator 8, the current of the electric motor/generator 8 or the voltage of the electric motor/generator 8. Data from the one or more monitoring members can be transmitted via the connection 28''''.
    The control unit 20 comprises a detection unit 120 configured to detect one or more parameters of the generator 14. The detection unit 120 may be configured to detect the rotational speed (frequency), the current and the voltage of the generator 14. The detection unit 120 is
    DK 2018 00224 A1 connected to the generator 14 by means of a cable. The detection unit 120 is connected to the control unit 20 through a connection 28'.
    The control unit 20 (and the shunt 20') is wirelessly connected to an external device 122. The wireless connection may be replaced by a wired connection.
    The control unit 20 is configured to send signals 124 to the external device 122 and to receive signals 126 sent by the external device 122. Hereby, it is possible to communicate with the external device 122. The external device 122 may be another electric power output apparatus by way of example. Accordingly, the control unit 20 can use information/data from several energy suppliers in order carry out the most optimum regulation.
    When the capacity of the electric energy storage 10 is high (e.g. within a predefined range between a first lower level and a second upper level) it is possible to energise the generator 14 by electric power from the electric energy storage 10.
    In a preferred embodiment, the control unit 20 is configured to regulate the combustion engine 4 in such a manner that when the capacity of the electric energy storage 10 is below a predefined level, the combustion engine 4 is turned on and the coupling 30 is brought into a configuration in which the combustion engine 4 drives the electric motor/generator 8. Hereby, it is possible to at least partly drive the generator 14 by the combustion engine 4. It is, however, also possible to supply electric power from the electric energy storage 10 to the electric motor/generator 8. Furthermore, it is possible to deliver a high power by energising the electric motor 8 by the combustion engine 4 and the electric energy storage 10.
    The electric motor/generator 8 is configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and at the same time convert mechanical energy (rotation) into electric power. Accordingly, the electric power
    DK 2018 00224 A1 output apparatus 2 can at the same time store electric power into the electric energy storage 10 and drive the generator 14.
    In the night time or other time periods in which the noise from the combustion engine 4 (e.g. a diesel engine) is unwanted, it is possible to deliver electric power by means of the generator 14 without activating the combustion engine 4. This can be accomplished because electric power to drive the generator 14 can be delivered by the electric energy storage 10. Accordingly, the electric power output apparatus 2 is suitable for being used in places (e.g. hospitals or military camps), in which the noise level can be critical in periods.
    Fig. 2A illustrates a curve 32 depicting the electric power consumption P of a consuming system (that is supplied with electric power by an electric power output apparatus according to the invention) as function of time T.
    Fig. 2B illustrates a curve 34 depicting the activity A of the combustion engine of an electric power output apparatus according to the invention as function of time T. The activity A may be measured as the power produced by the combustion engine.
    Fig. 2C illustrates a curve 36 depicting the battery capacity C as function of time T of the electric power output apparatus relating to the curve 34 shown in Fig. 2B.
    It can be seen that in the time period up to T1, there is a slightly increasing electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A). The combustion engine 4 is shut off and thus the activity A is zero (see Fig. 2B). The battery capacity C decreased from a first high level C2 to a second lower level C1. These levels C1, C2 are predefined and determine when the combustion engine has to be turned on and turned off in such a manner that when the battery capacity C reaches the high level C2, the combustion engine is turned off and when the battery capacity C reaches the low level C1, the combustion engine is
    DK 2018 00224 A1 turned on.
    In the time period Ti to T2, the electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A) is initially increased slightly and hereafter reduced. The combustion engine has been turned on, since the battery capacity C reached C1 at the time T1. Accordingly, the battery capacity C is increased from the low level C1 to the high level C2 during the time period T1-T2.
    In the time period T2 to T3, the electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A) is initially decreased slightly and hereafter increased. The combustion engine turned off, since the battery capacity C is above the low level C1. The battery capacity C decreases, because the electric power output apparatus uses electric energy stored in the battery to produce the electric power delivered to the consuming system.
    In the time period T3 to T4, the electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A) is initially increased and is hereafter slightly reduced. The combustion engine is turned on, since the battery capacity C reached C1 at the time T3. The battery capacity C is increased from the low level C1 to the high level C2 during the time period T3-T4.
    In the time period T4 to T5, the electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A) decreases. The combustion engine turned off, since the battery capacity C is above the low level C1. The battery capacity C decreases, because the electric power output apparatus uses electric energy stored in the battery to produce the electric power delivered to the consuming system. At the time T5, the battery capacity C is at the low level C1 and therefore the combustion engine is turned on.
    Accordingly, in the time period T5 to T6, the electric power consumption P of the consuming system (see Fig. 2A) decreases. The combustion
    DK 2018 00224 A1 engine is turned on, since the battery capacity C reached Ci at the time T5. The battery capacity C is increased from the low level Ci to the high level C2 during the time period T5-T6. At Τθ the combustion engine is turned off and thus the battery delivers energy to the generator.
    Fig. 3 illustrates an electric power output apparatus 2 according to the invention. The electric power output apparatus 2 basically corresponds to the one shown in Fig. 1B. The electric power output apparatus 2, however, comprises a regulator unit 12 that is an integrated part of the control unit 20.
    Fig. 4A illustrates a schematic view of a combustion engine 4 of an electric power output apparatus according to the invention. The combustion engine 4 is connected to a shaft 6 via a coupling 30 and comprises an exhaust pipe 40, in which a sensor 38 is arranged. The sensor 38 may be configured to detect one or more gases in the exhaust gas. In a preferred embodiment, the sensor 38 is configured to measure the oxygen content of the exhaust gas. In one embodiment, the sensor 38 is configured to measure the content of carbon dioxide (CO2) and/or carbon monoxide (CO) and/or nitrous oxides (NOx) of the exhaust gas. The sensor 38 may be configured to detect the temperature of the exhaust gas.
    The sensor 38 is connected to the control unit 20 and thus configured to supply the control unit with data collected by the sensor 38.
    Fig. 4B illustrates a curve 42 depicting the gas content λ of the exhaust gas as function of time T. At the time T7, the gas content λ of the exhaust gas exceeds a predefined level λ2 as indicated by the first area 44 (a dotted circle). Accordingly, the combustion engine is not loaded with a sufficiently high load. Therefore, the load on the combustion engine is increased (by using the control unit).
    At the time T8, the gas content λ of the exhaust gas is below a predefined low level λ1 as indicated by the second area 46 (a dotted
    DK 2018 00224 A1 circle). Accordingly, the combustion engine is overloaded. Therefore, the load on the combustion engine has to be decreased. This can be done by means of the control unit by reducing the amount of electric energy being generated by the electric motor/generator to be stored in the electric energy storage.
    Thus, the control unit can control the combustion engine by means of the sensor inputs delivered by the sensor 38 (see Fig. 4A).
    Fig. 5A illustrates an electric power output apparatus 2 that basically corresponding to the one shown in Fig. 1B. The position of the electric motor 18 and the generator 8 is switched in such a manner that the combustion engine 4 is mechanically connected to the generator 14 by means of a coupling 30 and a shaft 6, The generator 14 is mechanically connected to an electric motor 8 by means of a shaft 6'.
    Fig. 5B illustrates an electric power output apparatus 2 that basically corresponding to the one shown in Fig. 5B. The generator 14 is, however, arranged parallel to the electric motor 8 and the generator 14 is mechanically connected to the electric motor 8 by means of a chain 6'' and a shaft 6'' provided with a gear that is brought into engagement with the chain 6''.
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    23
    List of reference numerals
    2Electric power output apparatus4Combustion engine6, 6'Connection structure (e.g. shaft)6''Connection structure (e.g. chain or threaded belt)8Electric motor10Electric energy storage12Motor drive (e.g. a frequency converter)14Electric generator16, 16'18, 18'CableWired connection20Control unit20'Shunt22, 24, 26Cable28, 28', 28'', 28'''28''''ConnectionConnection30Coupling32Electric energy consumption curve34Power curve (produced by the combustion engine)36Battery capacity curve38Sensor40Exhaust pipe42Oxygen content curve44First area46Second areaλProportion of gas (e.g. oxygen) in the exhaust gasλ1First gas (e.g. oxygen) levelλ2Second gas (e.g. oxygen) levelCBattery capacityC1, C2Battery capacity levelICurrentACAlternating currentTTimeT1, T2, T3, T4Time
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    T5, T6Time PElectric power consumption AActivity 102Prior art electric power generator5104Combustion engine 106, 106'Shaft 108First generator 110Electric energy storage 112Second electric motor10114Second generator 116, 16'Cable 118Regulator 120Detection unit 122External unit15124Signal 126Signal
    DK 2018 00224 A1
    权利要求:
    Claims (10)
    [1] 1. An electric power output apparatus (2) comprising:
    - an electric motor (8) configured to generate electric power;
    - a combustion engine (4) mechanically connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a first connection structure (6, 30);
    - an electric energy storage (10) electrically connected to the electric motor (8) and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor (8);
    - an electric generator (14) connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a connection structure (6', 6''), wherein the electric generator (14) is configured to generate an alternating current (AC);
    - a regulator unit (12) electrically connected to the electric energy storage (10) and the electric motor (8), wherein the regulator unit (12) is configured to supply the electric motor (8) with electric power, characterised in that the power output apparatus (2) comprises:
    - a coupling (30) configured to couple and uncouple the electric motor (8) and the combustion engine (4);
    - a control unit (20) comprising or connected to the regulator unit (12), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to:
    a) determine the electric energy capacity (C) of the electric energy storage (10);
    b) turn on and turn off the combustion engine (4) and
    c) control the coupling (30) by coupling and uncoupling the electric motor (8) and the combustion engine (4).
    [2] 2. An electric power output apparatus (2) according to claim 1, characterised in that the electric motor (8) is configured to convert electrical energy provided by the electric energy storage (10) into mechanical energy and to convert mechanical energy into electrical power.
    [3] 3. An electric power output apparatus (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the power output apparatus (2) comprises a
    DK 2018 00224 A1 motor drive (12) configured to:
    a) convert a current from the electric motor (8) to a direct current to be stored in the electric energy storage (10) and
    b) convert a direct current from the electric energy storage (10) to a current to drive the electric motor (8).
    [4] 4. An electric power output apparatus (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the power output apparatus (2) comprises one or more sensors (38) arranged and configured to measure one or more parameters of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine (4).
    [5] 5. An electric power output apparatus (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the power output apparatus (2) comprises a capacity detection member configured to detect the capacity of the electric energy storage (10).
    [6] 6. An electric power output apparatus (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first connection structure (6, 30) comprises a first shaft (6) and that the second connection structure (6') is formed as a shaft (6') extending parallel to the first shaft (6).
    [7] 7. A method for producing an alternating current (AC) by using an electric power output apparatus (2) comprising:
    - an electric motor (8) configured to generate electric power;
    - a combustion engine (4) mechanically connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a connection structure (6, 30);
    - an electric energy storage (10) electrically connected to the electric motor (8) and configured to store electric energy produced by the electric motor (8);
    - an electric generator (14) connected to the electric motor (8) by means of a connection structure (6', 6''), wherein the generator (14) is configured to generate an alternating current (AC);
    - a regulator unit (12) electrically connected to the electric energy
    DK 2018 00224 A1 storage (10) and the electric motor (8), wherein the regulator unit (12) is configured to supply the electric motor (8) with electric power, characterised in that the method comprises the step of mechanically decoupling the combustion engine (4) from the electric motor (8) when the capacity (C) of the electric energy storage (10) exceeds a predefined level (C2).
    [8] 8. A method according to claim 7, characterised in that the method comprises the step of turning on the combustion engine (4) when the capacity (C) of the electric energy storage (10) is below a predefined level (C1) or when a power consumption exceeding a predefined level is detected during a time period exceeding a predefined length.
    [9] 9. A method according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the method comprises the step of detecting one or more parameters (λ) of the gas exhaust of the combustion engine (4) and regulating the combustion engine (4) on the basis of the one or more detected parameters (λ).
    [10] 10. A method according to claim 9, characterised in that the method comprises the step of increasing the load on the combustion engine (4) when a predefined gas content (λ) of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine (4) exceeds a predefined level (λ2) and/or that the method comprises the step of decreasing the load on the combustion engine (4) when a predefined gas content (λ) of the exhaust gas of the combustion engine (4) is below a predefined level (λ1).
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    DK180006B1|2020-01-16|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    法律状态:
    2020-01-09| PAT| Application published|Effective date: 20191119 |
    2020-01-16| PME| Patent granted|Effective date: 20200116 |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    DKPA201800224A|DK180006B1|2018-05-18|2018-05-18|Electric Power Output Apparatus|DKPA201800224A| DK180006B1|2018-05-18|2018-05-18|Electric Power Output Apparatus|
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