Claims:1. A hybrid power generation system, comprising:
a wind based power generation subsystem comprising:
a direct current (DC) link;
a first leg coupled across the DC link and comprising a plurality of first switches; and
a dynamic braking resistor coupled to the first leg;
a DC source based power generation subsystem coupled to the first leg; and
a controller programmed for generating control signals to selectively switch the plurality of first switches of the first leg to:
provide a first path from the DC link to the dynamic braking resistor for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link when voltage across the DC link is higher than a threshold level; and
regulate a flow of energy from the DC source based power generation subsystem to the DC link.

2. The hybrid power generation system of claim 1, wherein the DC source based power generation subsystem comprises a solar power generation subsystem.

3. The hybrid power generation system of claim 1, wherein the first leg further comprises a first diode, wherein the first diode is coupled in series to the plurality of first switches.

4. The hybrid power generation system of claim 1, further comprising at least one second switch configured to selectively couple the dynamic braking resistor to the first leg.

5. The hybrid power generation system of claim 4, wherein the dynamic braking resistor is coupled across one switch of the plurality of first switches via the at least one second switch.

6. The hybrid power generation system of claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to selectively activate the second switch.

7. The hybrid power generation system of claim 1, further comprising a second leg operatively coupled to the first leg, wherein the second leg comprises a plurality of third switches.

8. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the wind based power generation subsystem further comprises a wind rotor side converter, a wind grid side converter, or a combination thereof.

9. The hybrid power generation system of claim 8, further comprising a wind converter housing enclosing the wind rotor side converter, the wind grid side converter, the first leg, and the second leg.

10. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the second leg is coupled across the DC link.

11. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the second leg is coupled to the dynamic braking resistor.

12. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to selectively switch the plurality of third switches to:
provide a second path from the DC link to the dynamic braking resistor for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link when voltage across the DC link is higher than a threshold level and the plurality of first switches is deactivated; and
regulating a flow of energy from the DC source based power generation subsystem to the DC link.

13. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the second leg further comprises a second diode, wherein the second diode is coupled in series with the plurality of third switches.

14. The hybrid power generation system of claim 7, wherein the second leg is coupled to a battery based power generation subsystem, a solar based power generation subsystem, or a combination thereof.

15. A wind solar hybrid power generation system, comprising:
a wind based power generation subsystem comprising:
a direct current (DC) link;
a first leg coupled across the DC link and comprising a plurality of first switches;
a dynamic braking resistor; and
at least one second switch configured to couple the dynamic braking resistor to the first leg;
a solar based power generation subsystem coupled to the first leg; and
a controller programmed for generating control signals to selectively switch the plurality of first switches of the first leg to:
provide a first path from the DC link to the dynamic braking resistor for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link when voltage across the DC link is higher than a threshold level; and
regulate a flow of energy from the solar based power generation subsystem to the DC link.

16. The wind solar hybrid power generation system of claim 15, wherein the solar based power generation subsystem comprises a photovoltaic (PV) panel.

17. The wind solar hybrid power generation system of claim 15, further comprising a second leg, wherein the at least one second switch is configured to couple the dynamic braking resistor between the first leg and the second leg.
, Description:BACKGROUND
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to integration of a wind based power generation subsystem and a supplementary power generation subsystem using a source having a limited short circuit current capacity. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to coupling of a dynamic break circuit of the wind based power generation subsystem to the solar based power generation subsystem, such that, the dynamic break circuit acts as a boost converter for the solar power generation subsystem.
[0002] The demand for renewable electrical energy is continually increasing. In some power generation systems, a power generation subsystem based on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind is employed along with a power generation subsystem based on a non-renewable energy source. Although renewable energy sources are widely available and environmental friendly, in some situations, such sources are not reliable. Reliability may be increased by using a power generation subsystem based on two or more renewable energy sources.
[0003] A conventional approach for integrating wind and solar based power generation subsystems includes a photovoltaic converter disposed along with a wind rotor side converter and a wind grid side converter. In such an approach, the photovoltaic converter is typically disposed in a housing of the converters of the wind based power generation subsystem, which has limited available space for incorporating a photovoltaic converter. As a result, the size (and thus the power capacity) of the photovoltaic converter is limited. An additional drawback to having a separate photovoltaic converter is the cost of the electrical equipment and associated control and cooling systems.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0004] In accordance with aspects of the present specification, a hybrid power generation system is presented. The system includes a wind based power generation subsystem including a direct current (DC) link, a first leg coupled across the DC link and having a plurality of first switches, and a dynamic braking resistor coupled to the first leg. The system also includes a DC source based power generation subsystem coupled to the first leg. Furthermore, the system includes a controller programmed for generating control signals to selectively switch the plurality of first switches of the first leg to provide a first path from the DC link to the dynamic braking resistor for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link when voltage across the DC link is higher than a threshold level and regulate a flow of energy from the DC source based power generation subsystem to the DC link.
[0005] In accordance with another aspect of the present specification, a wind solar hybrid power generation system is presented. The system includes a wind based power generation subsystem. The wind based power generation subsystem includes a direct current (DC) link. The wind based power generation subsystem further includes a first leg coupled across the DC link and having a plurality of first switches. Moreover, the wind based power generation subsystem includes a dynamic braking resistor and at least one second switch configured to couple the dynamic braking resistor to the first leg. Further, the system includes a solar based power generation subsystem coupled to the first leg. Also, the system includes a controller programmed for generating control signals to selectively switch the plurality of first switches of the first leg to provide a first path from the DC link to the dynamic braking resistor for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link when voltage across the DC link is higher than a threshold level and regulate a flow of energy from the solar based power generation subsystem to the DC link.
DRAWINGS
[0006] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatical representation of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical representation of a conventional wind solar hybrid power generation system;
[0009] FIGs. 3-7 are diagrammatical representations of different embodiments of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification;
[0010] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical representation of one embodiment of integration of a wind based power generation subsystem with a battery and solar based power generation subsystem, according to aspects of the present specification; and
[0011] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatical representation of a wind converter housing, according to aspects of the present specification.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms “first”, “second”, and the like, as used herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. Also, the terms “a” and “an” do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. The term “or” is meant to be inclusive and mean one, some, or all of the listed items. The use of “including,” “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. Furthermore, the terms “circuit” and “circuitry” and “controller” may include either a single component or a plurality of components, which are either active and/or passive and are connected or otherwise coupled together to provide the described function.
[0013] As will be described in detail hereinafter, various embodiments of a hybrid power generation system and a method of hybrid power generation are presented. Advantageously, the hybrid power generation system is configured to provide a relatively low cost and easy integration of the wind based power generation subsystem and any other direct current (DC) source based power generation subsystem. According to aspects of the present specification, integration of a higher wattage capacity DC source based power generation subsystem to the wind based power generation subsystem is achieved without substantially increasing the footprint of the existing wind based power generation subsystem.
[0014] Turning now to the drawings, by way of example in FIG. 1, a diagrammatical representation 100 of an example hybrid power generation system, such as, but not limited to, a wind solar hybrid power generation system, is presented. The wind solar hybrid power generation system 100 includes a wind based power generation subsystem 102, a DC source based power generation subsystem, and a controller 108. In certain embodiments, the DC source based power generation subsystem refers to a limited short circuit current capacity based power generation subsystem. In the illustrated embodiment, the DC source based power generation subsystem is a solar based power generation subsystem represented generally by reference numeral 104. The wind based power generation subsystem 102 is integrated to the solar based power generation subsystem 104 to form a wind solar hybrid power generation system.
[0015] The controller 108 may include one or more processing units and associated memory devices configured to execute at least one control algorithm. As used herein, the term “processing unit” refers not only to integrated circuits referred to in the art as being included in a computer, but also refers to a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application specific integrated circuit, application-specific processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and/or any other programmable circuits. Further, the memory device(s) may generally include memory element(s) including, but are not limited to, computer readable medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer readable non-volatile medium (e.g., a flash memory), one or more hard disk drives, a floppy disk, a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) drives, a magneto-optical disk (MOD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), flash drives, optical drives, solid-state storage devices, and/or other suitable memory elements. The controller 108 may be configured to regulate operation of the wind based power generation subsystem 102 and the solar based power generation subsystem 104. Although the embodiment of FIG. 1 depicts a solar based power generation subsystem 104 integrated with the wind based power generation subsystem 102, in alternative embodiments, instead of the solar based power generation subsystem 104 any other DC source based power generation subsystem may be employed.
[0016] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the wind based power generation subsystem 102 is operatively coupled to a grid 106. The wind based power generation subsystem 102 includes a DC link 114. Moreover, the wind based power generation subsystem 102 also includes a generator 111. Furthermore, the wind based power generation subsystem 102 includes a wind grid side converter 110, a wind rotor side converter 112, or a combination thereof. The wind grid side converter 110 and the wind rotor side converter 112 are coupled across the DC link 114 in the specific embodiment of FIG. 1. Further, the wind based power generation subsystem 102 includes a dynamic braking circuit 113. The dynamic braking circuit 113 is coupled across the DC link 114. It may be noted that the dynamic braking circuit 113 provides a path to drain excess voltage across the DC link 114. The dynamic braking circuit 113 includes a first leg 120 of the hybrid power generation system which is coupled to a dynamic braking resistor 124. In particular, the first leg 120 is coupled to a dynamic braking resistor 124 via at least one second switch 126. The first leg 120 includes a plurality of first switches 122
[0017] The first leg 120 along with the dynamic braking resistor 124 and the second switch 126 is configured to provide a dynamic braking operation for the wind based power generation subsystem 102. The wind based power generation subsystem 102 includes a wind converter housing. In one example, the first leg 120, the wind grid side converter 110, and the wind rotor side converter 112 are enclosed in the wind converter housing. The wind converter housing is explained in greater detail with respect to FIG. 9.
[0018] Furthermore, a DC source/solar based power generation subsystem 104 may be coupled to the first leg 120. The solar based power generation subsystem 104 includes a PV panel 115 and a boost converter 116. In particular, a PV panel 115 may be directly coupled to the first leg 120.
[0019] In addition, the solar based power generation subsystem 104 includes other components 118, such as, but not limited to, passive circuit elements, protection devices, a combiner box, and lockout/tagout devices. In the example of FIG. 1, the second leg of the hybrid power generation system forms a photovoltaic (PV) boost converter 116, where the second leg includes a plurality of switches. In particular, the second leg may include a portion of the solar based power generation subsystem 104. Upon integration of the wind based power generation subsystem 102 and the solar based power generation subsystem 104, the boost converter 116 may be coupled directly across the DC link 114. Alternatively, the boost converter 116 may be coupled to first leg 120 of the wind based power generation subsystem 102. In one example, a PV panel 115 corresponding to the solar based power generation subsystem 104 may be coupled to the first leg 120 via a boost converter 116. Therefore, the PV panel 115 corresponding to the solar based power generation subsystem 104 is indirectly coupled to the first leg 120.
[0020] In either embodiment, the boost converter 116 may be disposed in the existing wind converter housing (shown in FIG. 9). Consequently, there may be no or minimal corresponding increase in the required footprint of the existing wind based power generation subsystem on integration of the solar based power generation subsystem with the wind based power generation subsystem. Further, in certain embodiments, the dynamic braking circuit 113 itself may act as a boost converter 116 and an additional boost converter, such as the boost converter 116, need not be employed for integration of the wind based power generation subsystem 102 and the solar based power generation subsystem 104.
[0021] Reference numeral 117 is indicative of the portion of the system 100 which represents the coupling of the dynamic braking circuit 113 to the solar based power generation subsystem 104. Coupling of the dynamic braking circuit 113 of the wind based power generation subsystem 102 to the solar based power generation subsystem 104 is explained in greater detail with respect to FIGs. 3-8.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatical representation of a conventional wind solar hybrid power generation system 200. In particular, FIG. 2 is a representation depicting coupling of a dynamic braking circuit of a wind based power generation subsystem with a converter of a solar based power generation subsystem in a conventional wind solar hybrid power generation system, such as the system 200. The conventional wind solar hybrid power generation system 200 includes a dynamic braking circuit. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 202. Further, the dynamic braking circuit includes a dynamic braking resistor 208 operatively coupled to the first leg 202. The first leg 202 is coupled across a DC link 222. The first leg 202 includes a plurality of switches 204, 206. Furthermore, the converter of a solar based power generation subsystem is represented by a leg 210. The leg 210 includes two switches 212, 214. The switches 204, 206, 212, 214 include any solid state switch with an antiparallel diode. The leg 210 is coupled across the DC link 222. Moreover, the leg 210 is coupled to the photovoltaic (PV) panel 218 via an inductor 220 using a switch 216.
[0023] During PV operation, a power conversion operation employing a PV panel and the converter of the solar based power generation subsystem is performed. During the PV operation, the switch 212 is chopped, that is, the switch 212 is alternately activated and deactivated at a predetermined frequency. Further, the switch 214 is maintained in a deactivated state.
[0024] When the switches 212 and 216 are activated, the current flows from the PV panel 218 via the activated switch 212, the inductor 220, and back to the PV panel 218. Accordingly, energy is stored in the inductor 220. When the switch 212 is deactivated, energy stored in the inductor 220 is transferred via the PV panel 218, the DC link 222, and the diode antiparallel to the switch 214.
[0025] Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 2, for a dynamic braking operation the first leg 202 is employed. The term ‘dynamic braking operation,’ as used herein, refers to an operation during which a dynamic braking circuit of a wind based power generation subsystem provides a path to drain excess voltage across the DC link of the wind based power generation subsystem. During the dynamic braking operation, the switch 204 is chopped. Further, the switch 206 is maintained in a deactivated state. When the switch 204 is activated, excess voltage across the DC link 222 is discharged via the activated switch 204, point X, the dynamic braking resistor 208 back to the DC link 222. Accordingly, the dynamic braking operation is achieved. Although the example of FIG. 2 represents the dynamic brake resistor 208 being coupled across the switch 206 and the switch 204 being chopped, in another example, the dynamic brake resistor 208 may be coupled across the switch 204 and the switch 206 may be chopped.
[0026] As noted hereinabove, for the PV operation only the leg 210 is employed and for the dynamic braking operation only the first leg 202 is employed. Further, the dynamic braking circuit is operational for a very small amount of time. By way of example, in one year, the dynamic braking circuit may be operational for only 100 seconds at some locations. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 2, the dynamic braking circuit is underutilized. Also, the PV operation in the embodiments of FIG. 2 requires an additional leg, namely the leg 210, thereby increasing the number of switches employed in the wind solar hybrid power generation system.
[0027] Referring to FIGs. 3-7, diagrammatical representations of different embodiments of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification, are presented. In particular, FIG. 3 represents an embodiment of the wind solar hybrid power generation system, where a dynamic braking circuit of the wind solar hybrid power generation system is used for PV operation and a dynamic braking operation. The term “PV operation,” as used herein refers to a PV power conversion operation. The term ‘dynamic braking operation,’ as used herein, refers to an operation during which a dynamic braking circuit of a wind based power generation subsystem provides a path to drain excess voltage across the DC link of the wind based power generation subsystem. The use of the dynamic braking circuit for PV operation aids in adequately using the dynamic braking circuit without increasing the footprint of the existing wind based power generation subsystem. Furthermore, FIGs. 4-7 represent other embodiments of the wind solar hybrid power generation system, where a dynamic braking circuit along with another leg is used for PV operation and dynamic braking operation. Coupling of another leg along with dynamic braking circuit aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be employed in the solar based power generation subsystem with no or minimal increase in the footprint of the existing wind based power generation subsystem.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical representation 300 of a portion of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification. Particularly, FIG. 3 illustrates a portion 117 of FIG. 1, without the boost converter 116 of FIG. 1. The system 300 includes a dynamic braking circuit that corresponds to a wind based power generation subsystem. The dynamic braking circuit provides a dynamic braking operation. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 302. The first leg 302 includes two first switches 304, 306. The first switches 304, 306 may each include a solid state switch with an antiparallel diode. The first leg 302 is coupled across the DC link 308. The dynamic braking circuit also includes a dynamic braking resistor 310 and a second switch 312. In the example of FIG. 3, the dynamic braking resistor 310 is coupled to the first leg 302 via the second switch 312. The second switch 312 is configured to selectively couple the dynamic braking resistor 310 to the first leg 302. The second switch 312 includes a solid state switch, a mechanical switch, an electromechanical switch, or combinations thereof. The dynamic braking resistor 310 is coupled to the first leg 302 between points 309, 311. Thus, the dynamic braking resistor 310 is coupled across the first switch 304.
[0029] Moreover, the system 300 includes a PV panel 318 coupled to the first leg 302 between points 311, 309. In particular, the PV panel 318 is coupled to the first leg 302 via a switch 316 and an inductor 314. The PV panel 318 is an integral component of the solar based power generation subsystem. The system 300 also includes a controller 320, such as the controller 108 of FIG. 1. The controller 320 is configured to determine a switching pattern of the first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312. Further, the controller 320 is programmed for generating control signals to selectively switch the plurality of first switches 304, 306 of the first leg 302. In particular, the controller 320 is configured to selectively switch the first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312 based on a switching pattern. The term ‘switching pattern,’ as used herein, refers to a combination of switching states of the switches that are configured to be controlled by a controller.
[0030] The controller 320 is configured to provide a first path 313 from the DC link 308 to the dynamic braking resistor 310 for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link 308 and to regulate a flow of energy from the solar based power generation subsystem to the DC link 308. In one embodiment, the flow of energy may be regulated based on the selective switching of the plurality of first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312. In particular, a first path 313 is provided from the DC link 308 to the dynamic braking resistor 310 when voltage across the DC link 308 is equal to or higher than a threshold level of voltage for a DC link 308. The discharge of energy stored in the DC link 308 to the dynamic braking resistor 310 corresponds to a dynamic braking operation. Furthermore, the discharge of energy stored in the DC link 308 causes a current to flow in the first path 313.
[0031] Also, the controller 320 is configured to regulate a flow of energy from the solar based power generation subsystem to the DC link 308 based on selective switching of the plurality of first switches 304, 306. In particular, the controller 320 regulates the flow of energy from the PV panel 318 to the DC link 308 when the dynamic braking resistor 310 is not providing a path to discharge energy stored in the DC link 308. The flow of energy between the DC link 308 and the PV panel 318 based on the selective switching of the plurality of first switches 304, 306 corresponds to a PV operation of the wind solar hybrid power generation system. The term “PV operation,” as used herein refers to a PV power conversion operation. The flow of energy between the DC link 308 and the PV panel 318 based on the selective switching of the plurality of first switches 304, 306 causes a flow of current between the DC link 308 and the PV panel 318.
[0032] Therefore, based on the switching of the first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312 a mode of operation of the first leg 302 may be determined. Particularly, based on the switching of the first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312 it may be determined if the first leg may be used for the dynamic braking operation or for the PV operation.
[0033] Particularly, in the example of FIG. 3, for a PV operation, the first switch 304 is chopped and the first and second switches 306 and 312 312 are deactivated. Further, during the PV operation, the switch 316 is maintained in closed condition. Accordingly, there is a flow of energy between the DC link 308 and the PV panel 318 based on the selective switching of the first switches 304, 306. Thus, current flows from the PV panel 318 to the DC link 308 based on the selective switching of the first switches 304, 306 and the second switch 312.
[0034] When the first switch 304 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 318 via the activated first switch 304, the inductor 314 and back to the PV panel 318. Accordingly, the energy is stored in the inductor 314. However, when the first switch 304 is deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 314 is transferred via the PV panel 318, the DC link 308, and the diode antiparallel to the first switch 306. The term ‘activation’ of the switches, as used herein, refers to transitioning the switch to an ‘ON’ state to provide a closed circuit or electrically conducting path. The terms ‘activated’ and ‘closed’ may be alternatively used in the present specification. The term ‘deactivation’ of the switches, as used herein, refers to transitioning the switch to an ‘OFF’ state to provide an open circuit or electrically non-conducting path. The terms ‘deactivated’ and ‘open’ may be alternatively used in the present specification.
[0035] For a dynamic braking operation, the first switch 304 is deactivated, the second switch 312 is activated, and the first switch 306 is chopped. In one example, for the dynamic braking circuit operation the switch 316 is open. When the first switch 306 is activated, the excess voltage across the DC link 308 is discharged via a first path 313. Accordingly, current flows through the first path 313. The first path 313 runs via the dynamic braking resistor 310, the second switch 312, the first switch 306, to the DC link 308, back to the dynamic braking resistor 310.
[0036] Although the example of FIG. 3 represents the dynamic brake resistor 310 and the PV panel 318 being coupled across the first switch 304, in another example, the dynamic brake resistor and the PV panel may be coupled across the first switch 306. The dynamic brake resistor may be coupled across the first switch 306 via a second switch and the PV panel may be coupled across the first switch 306 via an inductor and a switch. Further, when the dynamic brake resistor and PV panel are coupled across the first switch 306, a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation may be achieved by appropriately switching the switches 304, 306, and 312.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical representation 400 of another embodiment of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification. In particular, FIG. 4 represents a combination of the dynamic braking circuit with another leg for use in a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation. The system 400 includes a dynamic braking circuit. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 402. The first leg 402 includes a plurality of first switches 404, 406. Furthermore, the first leg 402 includes a first diode 408 coupled in series with the first switches 404, 406. Also, the dynamic braking circuit includes a dynamic braking resistor 410 operatively coupled to the first leg 402. The dynamic braking resistor 410 is operatively coupled to the first leg 402 between points D and A. Furthermore, the first leg 402 is coupled across a DC link 412. Further; the system 400 includes a second leg 414. The second leg 414 may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter. The second leg 414 includes two third switches 416, 418. The second leg 414 is also coupled across the DC link 412. Each of the third switches 416, 418, similarly to the first switches 404, 406, may include a solid state switch with an antiparallel diode.
[0038] The system 400 further includes a PV panel 424 coupled to the first and second legs 402, 414 via a switch 422 and an inductor 420. In particular, the PV panel 424 is coupled across the first switch 404 and the third switch 416. Furthermore, the system 400 includes a controller 426. The controller 426 is configured to determine a switching pattern of the first switches 404, 406 and third switches 416, 418, in one example. Further, the controller 426 is configured to selectively switch the third switches 416, 418, and the first switches 404, 406 based on the switching pattern.
[0039] In the example of FIG. 4, both the first leg 402 and the second leg 414 are configured to be employed for a PV operation. For the PV operation, the first switch 404 and the third switch 416 are chopped, the first switch 406 and the third switch 418 are deactivated, and the switch 422 is closed. In one example, the first switch 404 and the third switch 416 are chopped at a substantially similar frequency. When the first switch 404 and the third switch 416 are activated, the current flows from the PV panel 424, via the activated first switch 404, and the activated third switch 416, to the inductor 420, back to the PV panel 424. Accordingly, the energy is stored in the inductor 420.
[0040] When the first switch 404 and the third switch 416 are deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 420 is transferred. Accordingly, a current flows from the inductor 420 via the PV panel 424, the DC link 412 to point A. At point A, the current flowing from the DC link 412 splits and flows into two different paths. One of the paths is via the first diode 408, the diode antiparallel with the first switch 406, a point B to point C. The point B is positioned between the first switches 404, 406. The other path is via the diode antiparallel with the third switch 418 to the point C. At point C, the current from both paths combine and flows back to the inductor 420.
[0041] Furthermore, for a dynamic braking operation, the first switches 404, 406 are activated and the third switches 416, 418 are deactivated. In one example, for the dynamic braking circuit operation the switch 422 is open. The excess voltage across the DC link 412 may be drained via the first switches 404, 406, the dynamic braking resistor 410, point A, and back to the DC link 412. Draining of excess voltage across the DC link 412 causes a current to flow from the DC link 412 via the first switches 404, 406, the dynamic braking resistor 410, point A, and back to the DC link 412. Although in the example of FIG. 4, the use of a second leg 414 along with the first leg 402 causes an increase in the number of switches employed, the use of a combination of first and second legs 402, 414 aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with the wind solar hybrid power generation system 400.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 5, a diagrammatical representation 500 of yet another embodiment of integration of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification, is presented. In particular, FIG. 5 represents a combination of the dynamic braking circuit with another leg for use in a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 502 coupled with a dynamic braking resistor 518. The first leg 502 includes a plurality of first switches 506, 508. Further, the first leg 502 includes a first diode 510 coupled in series with the plurality of first switches 506, 508. Moreover, the first leg 502 is coupled across a DC link 526.
[0043] Further, the system 500 includes a second leg 504. The second leg 504 may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter. The second leg 504 is coupled across the DC link 526 and includes a plurality of third switches 512, 514. Further, the second leg 504 also includes a second diode 516, where the second diode is coupled in series with the plurality of third switches 512, 514. The second leg 504 is also coupled to the dynamic braking resistor 518. Moreover, the system 500 includes a PV panel 520 coupled to the first leg 502 and second leg 504 via an inductor 524 and a switch 522. In particular, the PV panel 520 is coupled across the third switch 512 and the first switch 506. The PV panel 520 is an integral part of the DC source based power generation subsystem.
[0044] The system 500 also includes a controller 532. The controller 532 is configured to selectively switch the first switches 506, 508 and the third switches 512, 514. The controller 532 is configured to provide a first path 528 from the DC link 526 to the dynamic braking resistor 518 for at least partly discharging energy stored in the DC link 526 and to regulate a flow of energy from the solar based power generation subsystem to the DC link 526 based on the selective switching of the first switches 506, 508. In particular, a first path 528 is provided from the DC link 526 to the dynamic braking resistor 518 when voltage across the DC link 526 is higher than a threshold level of voltage for a DC link 526.
[0045] Also, the controller 532 regulates a flow of energy from the DC source based power generation subsystem to the DC link 526 based on selective switching of the first switches 506, 508. In particular, the controller 532 regulates a flow of energy from the PV panel 520 to the DC link 526 when the dynamic braking resistor 518 is not providing a path to discharge energy stored in the DC link 526.
[0046] The controller 532 is also configured to provide a second path from the DC link 526 to the dynamic braking resistor 518 for at least partially discharging energy stored in the DC link 526 based on the selective switching of the plurality of third switches 512, 514. In particular, the controller 532 is configured to provide a second path from the DC link 526 to the dynamic braking resistor 518 for at least partially discharging energy stored in the DC link 526 when voltage across the DC link 526 is equal to or higher than a threshold level of voltage for the DC link 526 and when the first switches 506, 508 is deactivated. The discharge of energy stored in the DC link 526 to the dynamic braking resistor 518 via a first path 528 or a second path 530 corresponds to a dynamic braking operation.
[0047] Also, the controller 532 regulates a flow of energy from the PV panel 520 to the DC link 526 based on selective switching of the third switches 512, 514. The flow of energy between the DC link 526 and the PV panel 520 based on the selective switching of the first switches 506, 508 or the third switches 512, 514 corresponds to a PV operation of the wind solar hybrid power generation system.
[0048] Based on the selective switching of the first switches 506, 508 and the third switches 512, 514 the mode of operation of the first leg 502 and the second leg 504 may be determined. Particularly, based on the switching of the first switches 506, 508 and the third switches 512, 514 it may be determined when the first leg 502 and the second leg 504 may be used for the dynamic braking operation or for the PV operation.
[0049] In the example of FIG. 5, the first leg 502 and the second leg 504 is configured to be employed for both dynamic braking operation and PV operation. For the PV operation, the switch 522 is closed and the first switch 506 and the third switch 512 are chopped. When the first switch 506 and the third switch 512 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 520, the activated first and third switches 506, 512, point C’, the inductor 524, and back to the PV panel 520. Accordingly, the energy is stored in the inductor 524.
[0050] Further, when the first switch 506 and the third switch 512 are deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 524 is transferred. Accordingly, a current flows from the inductor 524 via the PV panel 520, the DC link 526, to the point A’. At the point A’ the current splits and flows into two paths, one path being from the point A’ via the first diode 510, the diode antiparallel with the first switch 508, a point B’ to the point C’. The other path is via the second diode 516, the diode antiparallel with the third switch 514, to the point C’. At point C’, the currents from both paths combine and flow to the inductor 524.
[0051] Furthermore, for a dynamic braking operation, in a first scenario, the first switches 506, 508 are activated and the third switches 512, 514 are deactivated. The excess voltage across the DC link 526 may be drained via a first path 528. Accordingly, current flows through the first path 528. The first path 528 runs from the DC link 526 via the activated first switches 506, 508, the dynamic braking resistor 518, point A’, back to the DC link 526.
[0052] The controller 532 may be configured to continuously monitor parameters of the first switches 506, 508 when operating in the dynamic braking operation. In one example, the controller 532 may be configured to monitor the temperature across the first switches 506, 508. If the temperature across the first switches 506, 508 increases beyond a threshold value of switch temperature, the first switches 506, 508 may be deactivated. The term “threshold value of switch temperature,” as used herein, refers to a temperature value beyond which the switch is not able to function in a predictable manner.
[0053] In instances where the dynamic braking operation lasts beyond the deactivation of the first switches 506, 508, then for the remainder of dynamic braking operation, the third switches 512, 514 may be activated. Accordingly, in a second scenario, the first switches 506, 508 are deactivated and the third switches 512, 514 are activated.
[0054] Based on the activation of the third switches 512, 514, for the dynamic braking operation, excess voltage across the DC link 526 may be drained via a second path 530. Accordingly, current may flow via the second path 530. The second path 530 runs from the DC link 526, via the activated third switches 512, 514, the dynamic braking resistor 518, point A’, back to the DC link 526.
[0055] Although the use of a second leg 504 along with the first leg 502 causes an increase in the number of switches employed, the use of a combination of first and second legs 502, 504 aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with the wind solar hybrid power generation system 500. Also, using both the first and second legs 502, 504 for dynamic braking operation advantageously aids in avoiding damages to the switches 506, 508, 512, 514 due to excessive usage/switching.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 6, a diagrammatical representation 600 of yet another embodiment of integration of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification, is presented. In particular, FIG. 6 represents a combination of the dynamic braking circuit with another leg for use in a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 602 coupled with a dynamic braking resistor 618. The first leg 602 includes a plurality of first switches 606, 608. The first leg 602 includes a first diode 610 coupled in series with the plurality of first switches 606, 608. Moreover, the first leg 602 is coupled across a DC link 628.
[0057] Further, the system 600 includes a second leg 604. The second leg 604 may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter. The second leg 604 is coupled across the DC link 628. The second leg 604 includes a plurality of third switches 612, 614. The second leg 604 also includes a second diode 616, where the second diode 616 is coupled in series with the plurality of third switches 612, 614. The second leg 604 is also coupled to the dynamic braking resistor 618. In particular, the dynamic braking resistor 618 is coupled across second diode 616.
[0058] Moreover, the system 600 includes a PV panel 626 coupled to the first leg 602 via an inductor 622 and a switch 624. In particular, the PV panel 626 is coupled across the first switch 606 of the first leg 602 via the inductor 622. Furthermore, the PV panel 626 is coupled to second leg 604 via an inductor 620 and the switch 624. In particular, the PV panel 626 is coupled across the third switch 612 of the second leg 604 via the inductor 620.
[0059] The system 600 also includes a controller 630. The controller 630 is configured to selectively switch the first switches 606, 608 and the third switches 612, 614. Based on the switching of the first switches 606, 608 and the third switches 612, 614, the mode of operation of the first leg 602 and the second leg 604 is determined. Particularly, based on the switching of the first switches 606, 608 and the third switches 612, 614 it may be determined as to when the first leg 602 and the second leg 604 may be used for the dynamic braking operation or the PV operation.
[0060] In the example of FIG. 6, the first leg 602 and the second leg 604 are configured to be employed for both a dynamic braking operation and a PV operation. For the PV operation, the switch 624 is activated and the first switch 608 and the third switch 614 is in a deactivated condition. Further, for the PV operation, the first switch 606 and the third switch 612 is chopped and is operated in an interleaved manner with respect to each other. Particularly, the first switch 606 and the third switch 612 may be alternately activated and deactivated. The first switch 606 and the third switch 612 are alternately activated and deactivated at a higher effective switching rate. Due to the activation and deactivation at higher effective switching rate, the size of the inductors 620 and 622 is relatively small.
[0061] In one example, at a first instance, first switch 606 is activated and the third switch 612 is deactivated. When the first switch 606 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 626, via the activated first switch 606, a point B’’, the inductor 622, back to the PV panel 626. Accordingly, the energy stored in the inductor 622. In the second instance, the first switch 606 is deactivated and the third switch 612 is activated. When the third switch 612 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 626, via the activated third switch 612, a point C’’, the inductor 620, back to the PV panel 626. Accordingly, the energy stored in the inductor 620.
[0062] When the first and third switches 606 and 612 are deactivated, the energy stored in the inductors 622 and 620 is transferred. The energy stored in the inductor 622 is transferred via the PV panel 626, the DC link 628, point A’’, the first diode 610, point D’’, the diode antiparallel with first switch 608, and the point B’’. Furthermore, the energy stored in the inductor 620 is transferred via the PV panel 626, the DC link 628, point A’’, the second diode 616, the diode antiparallel with the third switch 614, and point C’’.
[0063] Furthermore, for a dynamic braking operation, in a first scenario, the first switches 606, 608 are activated and the third switches 612, 614 are deactivated. The excess voltage across the DC link 628 may be drained via a first path 632. Accordingly, a current flows through the first path 632. The first path 632 runs from the DC link 628 via the activated first switches 606, 608, the dynamic braking resistor 618, the point A’’, back to the DC link 628.
[0064] When the first leg 602 provides a dynamic braking operation, the controller 630 may be configured to continuously monitor the parameters of the first switches 606, 608. In particular, the controller 630 may be configured to monitor the temperature across the first switches 606, 608. If the temperature across the first switches 606, 608 increases beyond a threshold value of switch temperature, the first switches 606, 608 may be deactivated. If the dynamic braking operation lasts beyond the deactivation of the first switches 606, 608, then for the remainder of dynamic braking operation, the third switches 612, 614 may be activated for the dynamic braking operation. Accordingly, in a second scenario, the first switches 606, 608 are deactivated and the third switches 612, 614 are activated. Based on the activation of the third switches 612, 614, excess voltage across the DC link 628 may be drained via a second path 634. Thus, current flows through the second path 634. The second path 634 runs from the DC link 628, via the activated third switches 612, 614, the dynamic braking resistor 618, back to the DC link 628.
[0065] Although the use of a second leg 604 along with the first leg 602 causes an increase in the number of switches employed, the use of a combination of first and second legs 602, 604 aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with the wind solar hybrid power generation system 600. Also, use of both the first and second legs 602, 604 for dynamic braking operation aids in advantageously avoiding any damage to the switches corresponding to the first and second legs 602, 604.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 7, a diagrammatical representation 700 of yet another embodiment of integration of a wind solar hybrid power generation system, according to aspects of the present specification, is presented. In particular, FIG. 7 represents a combination of a dynamic braking circuit with another leg for use in a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation for a wind based power generation subsystem. The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 702 and a dynamic braking resistor 710. The first leg 702 includes a plurality of first switches 706, 708. A point between the first switches 706, 708 is represented by ‘M’. The first leg 702 is coupled across a DC link 728. Further, the system 700 includes a second leg 704. The second leg 704 may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter leg. The second leg 704 is coupled across the DC link 728. A second switch 732 is configured to couple the dynamic braking resistor 710 between the first leg 702 and the second leg 704. In particular, the dynamic braking resistor 710 is coupled between points M and N via the second switch 732, where the point M is on the first leg 702 and the point N is on the second leg 704. The second leg 704 includes a plurality of third switches 712, 714. The point between the third switches 712 and 714 is represented by ‘N’.
[0067] Moreover, the system 700 includes a PV panel 724 directly coupled to the second leg 704 via an inductor 716 and a switch 720. In particular, the PV panel 724 is coupled across the third switch 712 via the inductor 716. Furthermore, the system 700 includes a PV panel 726 coupled to first leg 702 via an inductor 718 and a switch 722. In particular, the PV panel 726 is coupled across the first switch 706 via the inductor 718.
[0068] The system 700 also includes a controller 730. The controller 730 is configured to selectively switch the first switches 706, 708 and the third switches 712, 714. Based on the switching of the first switches 706, 708 and the third switches 712, 714, the mode of operation of the first leg 702 and the second leg 704 may be determined. Particularly, based on the switching of the first switches 706, 708 and the third switches 712, 714, it may be determined when the first leg 702 and the second leg 704 may be used for the dynamic braking operation or for the PV operation.
[0069] In the example of FIG. 7, the first leg 702 and the second leg 704 is configured to be employed for both the dynamic braking operation and the PV operation. For the PV operation, the second switch 732 is deactivated and the switches 720 and 722 are closed. Further, for the PV operation, the third switch 712 and the first switch 708 are chopped and the third switch 714 and first switch 706 are deactivated. In a first scenario, when the third switch 712 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 724, via the activated third switch 712, the inductor 716, back to the PV panel 724. Accordingly, energy is stored in the inductor 716. Furthermore, when the third switch 712 is deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 716 is transferred via the PV panel 724, the DC link 728, point P, the diode antiparallel to third switch 714, and point N.
[0070] In a second scenario, when the first switch 708 is activated, current flows from the PV panel 726, via the inductor 718, the point M, the activated first switch 708, point P, back to the PV panel 726. Furthermore, when the first switch 708 is deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 718 is transferred via the point M, the diode antiparallel to the first switch 706, the DC link 728, and the PV panel 726.
[0071] Furthermore, for a dynamic braking operation, in one scenario, the third switch 712, and the first switch 708 are deactivated, the second switch 732 is activated/closed, and the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 are activated. Accordingly, the dynamic braking resistor 710 is coupled across the DC link 728. During the dynamic braking operation, the excess voltage across the DC link 728 may be drained via the activated first switch 706, a point M, the dynamic braking resistor 710, the activated second switch 732, a point N, the activated third switch 714, point P, back to the DC link 728. Therefore, current flows from the DC link 728 via the activated first switch 706, a point M, the dynamic braking resistor 710, the activated second switch 732, a point N, the activated third switch 714, point P, back to the DC link 728. In one embodiment, for dynamic operation, the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 are chopped alternatively to reduce the switching losses. By way of example, when the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 are chopped alternatively, at one instance, the first switch 706 is activated and the third switch 714 is deactivated.
[0072] The controller 730 may be configured to continuously monitor the parameters of the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 when operating in the dynamic braking operation. In particular, the controller 730 may be configured to monitor the temperature of the first switch 706 and the third switch 714. When the temperature of the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 exceed beyond a threshold value of switch temperature, the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 are deactivated.
[0073] If the dynamic braking operation lasts for a longer time, that is, even after the deactivation of the first switch 706 and the third switch 714, then for the remainder of dynamic braking operation, the switches 720 and 722 are opened and the third switch 712 and the first switch 708 are activated. Accordingly, in another scenario, the first switch 706 and the third switch 714 are deactivated and the third switch 712 and the first switch 708 are activated. Furthermore, the second switch 732 continues to remain activated. When the third switch 712 and the first switch 708 are activated, the excess voltage across the DC link 728 may be drained via the third switch 712, point N, the activated second switch 732, the dynamic braking resistor 710, the point M, the first switch 708, back to the DC link 728. Accordingly, current flows from the DC link 728 via the third switch 712, point N, the activated second switch 732, the dynamic braking resistor 710, the point M, the first switch 708, back to the DC link 728.
[0074] Although the use of a second leg 704 along with the first leg 702 causes an increase in the number of switches employed, the use of a combination of first and second legs 702, 704 aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with the wind solar hybrid power generation system 700. In the example of FIG. 7, two PV panels 724, 726 are coupled to the wind solar hybrid power generation system 700. Also, use of both the first and second legs 702, 704 for dynamic braking operation aids in advantageously avoiding damages to the first and third switches 706, 708, 712, 714, due to excessive switching/usage.
[0075] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical representation 800 of one embodiment of integration of a wind based power generation subsystem with a battery and solar based power generation subsystem, according to aspects of the present specification. In particular, FIG. 8 represents a combination of a dynamic braking circuit with another leg for use for a PV operation and a dynamic braking operation for a wind based power generation subsystem. More particularly, a battery based power generation subsystem is coupled to the wind based power generation subsystem in addition to the solar based power generation subsystem.
[0076] The dynamic braking circuit includes a first leg 802, coupled with a dynamic braking resistor 836. The first leg 802 includes a plurality of first switches 806, 808. The first leg 802 is coupled across a DC link 832. The first leg 802 includes a diode 814. Further, the system 800 includes a second leg 804. The second leg 804 may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter leg. The second leg 804 is also coupled across the DC link 832. The second leg 804 includes a plurality of third switches 810, 812. Moreover, the system 800 includes a PV panel 826 coupled to the first leg 802 via an inductor 818 and a switch 820. In particular, the PV panel 826 is coupled across the first switch 806 via the inductor 818.
[0077] Furthermore, the system 800 includes a PV panel 830 coupled to the second leg 804 via an inductor 816 and a switch 824. In particular, the PV panel 830 is coupled across the third switch 810 via the inductor 816. Furthermore, a battery 828 is coupled to the second leg 804 via an inductor 816 and a switch 822. Particularly, the battery 828 is coupled across the third switch 810 via the inductor 816. The system 800 also includes a controller 834. The controller 834 is configured to selectively switch the first switches 806, 808 and the third switches 810, 812. Based on the switching of the first switches 806, 808 and the third switches 810, 812 the mode of operation of the first leg 802 and the second leg 804 may be determined. Particularly, based on the switching of the first switches 806, 808 and the third switches 810, 812 it may be determined when the first leg 802 and the second leg 804 may be used for the dynamic braking operation, the PV operation, or the battery based operation.
[0078] In the example of FIG. 8, the first leg 802 and the second leg 804 is configured to be employed for both the dynamic braking operation and the PV operation, or a battery based operation. For the PV operation, in one scenario, the switch 820 is closed, the first switch 806 is chopped and the first switch 808, the third switches 810, 812 are deactivated. When the first switch 806 is activated, the current flows from the PV panel 826, via a point K, the activated first switch 806, point E, the inductor 818, back to the PV panel 826. Accordingly, energy is stored in the inductor 818. Furthermore, when the first switch 806 is deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 818 is transferred via the PV panel 826, point K, the DC link 832, point J, diode 814, point G, the diode antiparallel to the first switch 808, and point E.
[0079] In another scenario, for the PV operation, the third switch 810 is chopped and the switch 824 is closed. In this scenario, the third switch 812 and first switch 806, 808 are deactivated. When the third switch 810 is activated, current flows from the PV panel 830, the activated third switch 810, point F, and the inductor 816 back to the PV panel 830.
[0080] In yet another scenario, for the battery operation, the third switch 810 is chopped and the switch 822 is closed. In this scenario also the third switch 812 and first switch 806, 808 are deactivated. When the third switch 810 is activated, current flows from the battery 828, via the activated third switch 810, point F, the inductor 816 back to the battery 828. Accordingly, energy is stored in the inductor 816. Furthermore, when the third switch 810 is deactivated, the switch 822 is open, and the switch 824 is closed, the energy stored in the inductor 816 is transferred via the PV panel 830, the DC link 832, point J, the diode antiparallel to the third switch 812, and point F. Moreover, when the switch 822 is closed, the switch 824 is open, and the third switch 810 is deactivated, the energy stored in the inductor 816 is transferred via a path having the battery 828, the DC link 832, point J, and the diode antiparallel to the third switch 812. In one example, both the switches 822, 824 are closed at the same instance.
[0081] Furthermore, for a dynamic braking operation, the third switches 810, 812 are deactivated and the first switches 806, 808 are activated. During the dynamic braking operation, the excess voltage across the DC link 832 may be drained via the activated first switches 806, 808, point G, the dynamic braking resistor 836, point J, back to the DC link 832. Therefore, current flows from the DC link 832, via the activated first switches 806, 808, point G, the dynamic braking resistor 836, point J, back to the DC link 832.
[0082] Although the use of a second leg 804 along with the first leg 802 causes an increase in the number of switches employed, the use of a combination of first and second legs 802, 804 aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with the wind solar hybrid power generation system 700. Furthermore, using second leg 804 aids in coupling of battery to the wind solar hybrid power generation system 800.
[0083] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatical representation 900 of a wind converter housing, according to aspects of the present specification. In particular, FIG. 9 depicts the wind converter housing 900 that is configured to enclose a first leg, such as the first leg 402 of FIG. 4 and a second leg, such as the second leg 414 of FIG. 4, in addition to a wind grid side converter, such as the wind grid side converter 110 of FIG. 1, and a wind rotor side converter, such as the wind rotor side converter 112 of FIG. 1.
[0084] The wind converter housing 900 includes an enclosure 902 for securely holding the first leg, the second leg, the wind grid side converter, and the wind rotor side converter. The wind converter housing 900 includes a plurality of racks 904. Further, the plurality of racks 904 define slots disposed there between. The illustrated embodiment depicts a first slot 906 and a second slot 908. The wind grid side converter and the wind rotor side converter may be disposed on the racks 904. In particular, switches of the wind grid side converter and the wind rotor side converter may be disposed on the plurality of racks 904. Furthermore, a first leg corresponding to a dynamic braking circuit may be disposed on at least one of the racks of the plurality of racks 904. In one embodiment, the first leg corresponding to the dynamic braking circuit is disposed in the first slot 906. Furthermore, the dynamic braking resistor, such as the dynamic braking resistor 410 of FIG. 1, is disposed outside the wind converter housing 900.
[0085] Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 9 the second slot 908 of the wind converter housing 900 is illustrated as being vacant. In conventional wind converter housing, the second slot is typically vacant. As noted hereinabove, the second leg may be alternatively referred to as PV boost converter. Particularly, the second leg is a portion of the solar based power generation subsystem 104. In accordance with aspects of the present specification, upon integration of the wind and solar based power generation subsystem, the second leg too is disposed inside the wind converter housing 900. In particular, the second leg, such as the second leg 414 of FIG. 4, is disposed in the second slot 908. Therefore, a separate enclosure or housing for enclosing the second leg is not required. Thus, in this embodiment, integration of the wind and solar based power generation subsystem aids in maintaining the same footprint as the existing wind based power generation subsystem.
[0086] Furthermore, the foregoing examples, demonstrations, and process steps such as those that may be performed by the system may be implemented by suitable code on a processor-based system, such as a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. It should also be noted that different implementations of the present technique may perform some or all of the steps described herein in different orders or substantially concurrently, that is, in parallel. Furthermore, the functions may be implemented in a variety of programming languages, including but not limited to C++ or Java. Such code may be stored or adapted for storage on one or more tangible, machine readable media, such as on data repository chips, local or remote hard disks, optical disks (that is, CDs or DVDs), memory or other media, which may be accessed by a processor-based system to execute the stored code. Note that the tangible media may comprise paper or another suitable medium upon which the instructions are printed. For instance, the instructions may be electronically captured via optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted or otherwise processed in a suitable manner if necessary, and then stored in the data repository or memory.
[0087] Various embodiments of a wind solar hybrid power generation system and a method of hybrid power generation are presented. Moreover, a dynamic braking circuit of a wind based power generation subsystem is used for both the dynamic braking operation and for PV operation. By way of example, the dynamic braking circuit is used for the PV power conversion operation when the dynamic braking circuit is not being used for dynamic braking operation for the wind based power generation subsystem. Thus, the dynamic braking circuit may be adequately utilized. Further, the use of dynamic braking circuit for the PV operation aids in increasing the capacity of PV panels that may be integrated with a wind solar hybrid power generation system. Also, the use of dynamic braking circuit for PV operation aids in avoiding any major changes to the footprint of the existing wind based power generation subsystem. Moreover, the hybrid power generation system may find application in wind solar hybrid power generation system and any other system employing a wind based power generation subsystem integrated with a limited short circuit current capacity source based power generation subsystem.
[0088] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof.