Computer based control system for wind power production

Kurzfassung

A Swedish enterprise has developed a state-of-the-art computer based control system for wind power plants. The fully in-house developed product is the result of more than twenty years of industry know-how and a close co-operation with universities. The control system has a whole range of unique functions and has been tested all over the world. The company is seeking contact with manufacturers of windmills who are interested in evaluating the control system.

Details

The microprocessor-based computer control system is based on the latest technology in terms of hardware and software. The company’s engineers have carefully designed the product to be based on as many standardised components and technologies as possible. The company believes it is important for its clients to be able to plug-in third party suppliers’ standardised input/output modules, thereby create their own unique configuration. A) Hardware, key features: Inputs/Outputs in minimum configuration (It is easily expandable without limit): - Digital inputs: 24 - Analog inputs: 9 - Digital outputs: 16 Communication ports: - CAN bus - RS232 serial - RS485 serial - Ethernet Man-Machine Communication is available in two varieties (both external): - Bluetooth for wireless communication with a handheld PDA (Palm) - Flat touch-screen B) Software, key features: - In-house developed operating system for optimal control of the process - Control algorithms and logics are shipped with open-source code applications - Almost all software is coded in modularized C++ classes

Innovative Aspects:
The advantage of the control system:

· A highly specialised operating system designed for very fast processes such as electric energy.

· Unique optimisation algorithms for efficient and accurate control.

· The ability to save logging and configuration parameters and easily load new software versions on portable SD flash card.

· Many integrated functions result in fewer external products in the control system - e.g. 6 voltage and 3 current inputs are included on the mother board since these are always needed in electricity generation control systems - A full set of software application features catering to the needs of the wind energy industry

· Scalability: Upgrades and modifications are easily done through standardised industrial input/output modules via the CAN-bus

· User programmability Application software is programmable by the customer (useful e.g. when a certain function is deemed so important that secrecy is important). This has been made possible thanks to: - Open source code - Integrated development environment without additional cost

· Easy diagnostics on site Through the Bluetooth wireless communication with a handheld PDA, service engineers can easily error logs

· Internet based supervision Using the Internet protocol, engineers will also be able to supervise and control the energy production remotely from their offices or homes

· Maintenance on site The system is housed in a slim stainless box which implies that the whole system occupies very little space at the installation site and also is well protected against physical damage