Modeling and control of a variable-speed constant-frequency synchronous generator with brushless exciter

This paper presents the modeling, control, and implementation of a novel variable-speed constant-frequency power generation system for renewable and distributed energy applications. The generation system consists of a wound-rotor generator, a brushless exciter and a low-rating controlled power converter. The main generator is a doubly fed induction machine which is operated as a synchronous generator. The advantages of the proposed system are reduced harmonic injection to power grid, wide speed operation range covering both subsynchronous and super-synchronous speeds, self var support, and increased reliability. It can be directly applied to wind power generators, small-scale hydroelectric generators, stand-alone diesel and gasoline generators, and aerospace and naval power generation systems where a variable speed turbine/engine is employed. An equivalent circuit model of a doubly fed generator was developed incorporating stator and rotor iron losses. Then the control of a standalone generation system is developed based on the mathematical model. Detailed implementation procedure is given. An experimental system and its control were implemented using an embedded real-time digital signal processor. Measurements of the experimental system validated the system design and readiness for prototyping in a relatively large power range.