Time stepping finite element analysis of a variable speed synchronous generator with rectifier

Several applications for renewable energy conversion make use of variable speed generators. A conversion from variable frequency to grid frequency is therefore essential. One part of the converter is a rectifier. A rectifier model is presented, which is integrated in a time stepping finite element simulation environment where the generator and circuit equations are solved simultaneously. The model handles bidirectional alternator speeds as the application is a linear generator for ocean wave energy conversion. The rectifier model is extended with a load model, consisting of R, L and E, and simulations show what impact the rectifier has on the generator's behaviour.Rectifier model Variable speed Linear generator Renewable energy DC transmission Finite element method Coupled field and circuit equations