A BIOMASS GASIFICATION REACTOR, SYSTEM FOR REMOTELY OPERATING SAME AND METHOD THEREFOR

Abstract

 Disclosed is biomass gasification reactor (100) comprising reactor body (102) configured to receive and heat feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours; combustion chamber (104) operatively coupled to reactor body and having first end (104A) and second end (104B) opposite to first end, combustion chamber is configured to receive, via plurality of inlet means (106) arranged at first end, pyrolysis gases and vapours from reactor body; and mix and recirculate pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from set of circulating means (108), to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours; reduction chamber (110) comprising reduction plate (112) configured to create pressure differential to receive partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours, and reduce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from second end of combustion chamber, to produce synthesis gas; and extractor operatively coupled to reduction chamber, where extractor is configured to extract produced synthesis gas from reduction chamber.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to biomass gasification reactors. The present disclosure also relates to systems for remotely operating biomass gasification reactors. The present disclosure further relates to methods for remotely operating biomass gasification reactors.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In present times there is an increase in demand for renewable sources of energy that have a low carbon emission. One such renewable source of energy is synthesis gas. Typically, the synthesis gas is produced by gasification of biomass in a biomass gasification reactor. The process of gasification of the biomass involves chemical processes of evaporation, pyrolysis, combustion, and reduction.

[0003] However, the present solutions of the biomass gasification reactors require high capital and operational costs, regular cleaning (due to production of ash and other residual components), power generation equipment which makes the biomass gasification reactor challenging to use. Moreover, the present solutions of the biomass gasification reactor produces tar which affects a quality of the synthesis gas that is produced. Furthermore, the present solutions of the biomass gasification reactor requires a constant supply of a feedstock of the biomass.

[0004] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

SUMMARY

[0005] The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a biomass gasification reactor. The aim of the disclosure is achieved by a biomass gasification reactor which produces a high quality of synthesis gas and minimizes an amount of tar that is produced as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.

[0006] The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a system for remotely operating the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor. The aim of the disclosure is achieved by a system which enables to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor with accuracy and precision at an optimum output level as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.

[0007] The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a method for remotely operating the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor. The aim of the disclosure is achieved by a method which enables to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor with accuracy and precision at an optimum output level as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.

[0008] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

[0009] It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-section of a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGs. 2-6 illustrates schematic illustrations of various components of a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic illustration of a biomass gasification reactor stratification, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic illustration of a temperature profile of a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic illustration of a biomass gasification reactor with vertical fuel storage, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary implementation of a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic illustration of a system for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart depicting steps of a method for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[0013] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, integers or steps. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires: in particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0014] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a biomass gasification reactor comprising:

• a reactor body configured to receive and heat a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;
• a combustion chamber operatively coupled to the reactor body and having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the combustion chamber is configured to
  • receive, via a plurality of inlet means arranged at the first end, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body; and
  • mix and recirculate the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours;
• a reduction chamber comprising a reduction plate configured to create a pressure differential to receive the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours, and reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and
• an extractor operatively coupled to the reduction chamber, where the extractor is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber.

[0015] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a system for remotely operating any of the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor, the system comprising:

• the biomass gasification reactor comprising:
  • a reactor body configured to receive and heat a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;
  • a combustion chamber operatively coupled to the reactor body and having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the combustion chamber is configured to:
    • receive, via a plurality of inlet means arranged at the first end, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body; and
    • mix the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours;
  • a reduction chamber comprising a reduction plate configured to reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and
  • an extractor operatively coupled to the reduction chamber, where the extractor is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber;
• a plurality of sensors operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor and configured to monitor:
  • a set of input parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;
  • a set of operating parameters of the biomass gasification reactor; and
  • a set of output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;
• a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor and configured to regulate one or more of the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;
• a user device associated with a user, having a display unit configured to display a virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor; and
• a server arrangement communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device, and configured to:
  • receive, from the plurality of sensors, information about the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;
  • execute a simulation module to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the respective received sets of input, operating and output parameters;
  • create a training dataset by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor;
  • determine whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model; and
  • when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output
    • modify at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters and generate a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters; and
    • create a new training dataset by pairing the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor; and
  • when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output
    • execute a machine learning module to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor, via the plurality of regulators, based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters.

[0016] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for remotely operating any of the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor, the method comprising:

• arranging the biomass gasification reactor for
  • receiving and heating, in a reactor body, a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;
  • receiving, via a plurality of inlet means arranged at a first end of a combustion chamber, operatively coupled to the reactor body, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body;
  • mixing the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means arranged with the combustion chamber, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours; and
  • reducing, in a reduction chamber comprising a reduction plate, the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from a second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and
  • extracting the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber, via an extractor operatively coupled to the reduction chamber;
• displaying, on a user device associated with a user, having a display unit, a virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor; and
• operating a server arrangement, communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device, to:
  • receive, from a plurality of sensors, information about respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;
  • execute a simulation module to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the received respective sets of input, operating and output parameters;
  • create a training dataset by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor;
  • determine whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model; and
  • when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output
    • modify the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters and generate a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters; and
    • create a new training dataset by pairing the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor; and
  • when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output
    • execute a machine learning module to remotely operate one or more of the set of operating parameters, via a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor, the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified set of operating parameters.

[0017] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer program product comprising a non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium having stored thereon program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to execute steps of any of the aforementioned method.

[0018] The present disclosure provides the aforementioned biological gasification reactor, the aforementioned system, the aforementioned method and the aforementioned computer program product for enabling optimum remote operation of the biomass gasification reactor to produce a high quality of the synthesis gas. The biomass gasification reactor enables to achieve a high degree of control in the gasification of the biomass, and thus significantly minimizes an amount of by-products produced in biomass gasification reactor. Thus, the biomass gasification reactor successfully produces a highly clean homogeneous synthesis gas. Moreover, the system and the method enables successful remote operation of the biomass gasification reactor at an optimum output level (i.e., up to 95 percent efficiency) without the need of the user to be at a site of operation of the biological gasification reactor. Furthermore, the system and the method enables to analyse different patterns and relationships between the input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding simulated to output via using the machine learning model and the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor.

[0019] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "biomass gasification reactor" as used herein refers to a reactor that is designed to facilitate gasification of the biomass. Notably, the biomass gasification reactor is used to produce the synthesis gas (i.e., a gas which is a mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and other hydrocarbons that can be used as a fuel to produce electricity or heat) from the gasification of the biomass. Herein, the gasification of the biomass involves making the biomass to undergo a series of thermochemical reactions that results in the production of the synthesis gas. Notably, the gasification of the biomass comprises of four major chemical reactions which are evaporation, pyrolysis, partial combustion, and reduction.

[0020] The biomass gasification reactor comprises the reactor body configured to receive and heat the feed of biomass to produce the pyrolysis gases and vapours. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "reactor body" refers to a main outer body that acts as a vessel-like structure to contain the biomass for undergoing gasification. It will be appreciated that the reactor body is designed to withstand high temperatures, pressures and corrosive conditions. Subsequently, the reactor body is made from material that is high-temperature and high-pressure resistant such as steel, refractory material, and the like. Notably, the biomass is continuously fed into the reactor body, where the feed of the biomass is heated to subsequently produce the pyrolysis gases and vapours. Notably, the reactor body is in a shape of a hollow elongate body. Optionally, the shape of the reactor body is a hollow cylindrical body. More optionally, the shape of the reactor body is a hollow cuboidal body. It will be appreciated that the reactor body is having a first end surface and a second end surface opposite to the first end surface. Optionally, the biomass is one of: wood, agricultural residual, human residual waste, energy crops, and the like.

[0021] It will be appreciated that the feed of biomass is heated in the reactor body in absence of oxygen, where the process of heating the feed of biomass in the absence of oxygen is referred to as pyrolysis. Notably, the pyrolysis causes a break down of the biomass into organic materials that results in the production of the pyrolysis gases and vapours. Herein, the pyrolysis gases and vapours comprises volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a biochar (i.e., a solid, carbon-rich charcoal that can be used as a soil amendment), the synthesis gas, and a bio-oil (i.e., a type of a liquid fuel). Notably, the VOCs are then partially combusted in the combustion chamber that produces heat which is used to sustain the gasification process. Optionally, the feed of the biomass is heated at a temperature in range of 300-800 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the feed of biomass is heated at the temperature in the range of 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, 600, 650, 700, or 750 up to 350, 400, 450, 500, 600, 650, 700, 750, or 800 degrees Celsius.

[0022] Optionally, the biomass in the reactor body is heated through convection, conduction and radiation heat derived from the combustion chamber. In this regard, the term "convection heat" refers to a transfer of heat that occurs from the combustion chamber to the feed of the biomass in the reactor body through flow of a fluid, such as the air, from the combustion chamber to the reactor body. Herein, the term "conduction heat" refers to the transfer of heat from the combustion chamber to the feed of the biomass in the reactor body via a direct contact between the combustion chamber and the feed of biomass. Herein, the term "radiation heat" refers to the transfer of heat that occurs from the combustion chamber to the feed of biomass in the reactor body via an emission of electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared radiation which is absorbed by the feed of biomass. Thus, the reactor body is heated through the heat that derived from the combustion chamber, and beneficially, no additional heat is required from outside the reactor body to produce the pyrolysis gases and the vapours from the feed of biomass.

[0023] Moreover, the biomass gasification reactor comprises a combustion chamber operatively coupled to the reactor body and having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "combustion chamber" refers to a chamber where the pyrolysis gases and vapours are partially combusted in presence of oxygen to produce heat via exothermic reactions. Subsequently, the heat that is produced in the combustion chamber is used for the pyrolysis in the reactor body. It will be appreciated that the combustion chamber is in shape of a hollow elongate body, where the first end and the second end are situated at the opposite ends of the hollow elongate body. Optionally, the combustion chamber is in the shape of the hollow cylindrical body. More optionally, the combustion chamber is in the shape of a hollow cuboidal body. Optionally, the temperature inside the combustion chamber is in a range of 700 to 1300 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the temperature inside the combustion chamber is in the range of 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, or 1200 up to 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, or 1300 degrees Celsius.

[0024] Optionally, the combustion chamber is arranged inside the reactor body, preferably, arranged annularly inside the reactor body. In this regard, a size of the combustion chamber is smaller than a size of the a reactor body, which enables the combustion chamber to be arranged inside the reactor body. Optionally, the combustion chamber is arranged in a central portion inside the reactor body. The term "annularly" as used herein refers to arranging the combustion chamber in the reactor body in a way that imitates a ring like structure, where a void exists between the combustion chamber and the reactor body. Thus, beneficially, the size of the biomass gasification reactor significantly reduces as the combustion chamber is arranged inside the reactor body.

[0025] The combustion chamber is configured to receive, via a plurality of inlet means arranged at the first end, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "inlet means" refers to a means that provides a path for the pyrolysis gases and vapours to enter the combustion chamber. Optionally, the inlet means is implemented as one of: inlet holes, an inlet conduit, an inlet channel, an inlet vent, an inlet hose, an inlet vane and the like.

[0026] Optionally, the pyrolysis gases and vapours are received in the combustion chamber from the reactor body at subsonic speeds, preferably in a range of 10m/s to 100m/s. Herein, the term "subsonic speeds" refers to those particular speeds which are less than the speed of sound. In this regard, the receiving of the pyrolysis gases and vapours in the combustion chamber at subsonic speeds, advantageously, enables to achieve a better control in receiving the pyrolysis gases and vapours with the air. Thus, beneficially, the amount of the pyrolysis gases and the vapours received can be precisely controlled.

[0027] Moreover, the combustion chamber is configured to mix and recirculate the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "circulating means" refers to a means that provides a passage for the air to flow into the combustion chamber, while adding a swirling motion in the flow of the air via nozzles that are installed in the circular means. Optionally, the circulating means is implemented as one of: vortex jets, airfoils, venturi tubes, air dampers, air curtains, and the like.

[0028] Notably, the swirling motion in the flow of the air that passes into the combustion chamber, enhances the mixing and the residence time of the pyrolysis gases and vapours with the air. It will be appreciated that the enhanced mixing and the enhanced residence time of the pyrolysis gases and vapours with the air enables to achieve a better efficiency to produce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and ensure a higher degree of thermal cracking process in the combustion chamber. Notably, the mixing of the pyrolysis gases and vapours creates an optimal sub-stoichiometric ratio of fuel to air and ensures a maximum residence time of the pyrolysis gases and vapours in the combustion chamber. Herein, the partial oxidation of the pyrolysis gases and the vapours refers to a controlled combustion of the pyrolysis gases and vapours that takes place in the combustion chamber in presence of a limited supply of oxygen.

[0029] Optionally, each of two consecutive circulating means from amongst the set of circular means are arranged at a predefined angle, wherein the predefined angle is in a range of 5 to 150 degrees. Optionally, the predefined angle is in the range of 5, 15, 25, 35, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95, 105, 115, 125, 135 or 145 up to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 110, 120, 130, 140 or 150 degrees. In this regard, the predefined angle at which the each of the two consecutive circulating means are arranged, beneficially, determines an extent of the mixing and the residence time of the pyrolysis gases and vapours.

[0030] Furthermore, the biomass gasification reactor comprises the reduction chamber comprises the reduction plate configured to create the pressure differential to receive the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours, and reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end of the combustion chamber, to produce the synthesis gas via endothermic reactions. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "reduction chamber" refers to a chamber where reduction of the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours takes place to produce the synthesis gas. Herein, the term "reduction plate" refers to a plate that is installed in reduction chamber, where the reduction plate reduces a speed with which the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours are received from the second end of the combustion chamber in the reduction chamber. Notably, the slowing down of the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours enables to increase a time for which the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours stay inside the reduction chamber, and thus, advantageously, enhances the reduction of the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours and produce a higher quality and homogeneity of synthesis gas.

[0031] Optionally, a distance of a central region of the reduction plate from the combustion chamber is lower than a distance of a peripheral region of the reduction plate from the combustion chamber. In this regard, a height of the central region of the reduction plane is elevated towards a direction of the combustion chamber in comparison to the height of the peripheral region, which subsequently, reduces the distance of the central region of the reduction plate from the combustion chamber in comparison to the distance of the peripheral region of the reduction plate from the combustion chamber. Thus, beneficially, the speed of receiving the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours further reduces, and the time for which the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours stay in the reduction chamber significantly increases, thus, producing significantly improved quality of the synthesis gas.

[0032] Optionally, a height of the central region of the reduction plate and an angle of inclination of the peripheral region of the reduction plate is associated with a diameter of the reduction plate. In this, regard, both the height of the central region of the reduction plate and the angle of inclination of the peripheral region of the reduction plate, respectively, varies with a variation in the values of the diameter of the reduction plate. Notably, the height of the central region of the reduction plate and the angle of inclination of the peripheral region of the reduction chamber are related to a distribution of the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours that exits the combustion chamber in a circular motion and subsequently, creates a vortex in the middle of the combustion chamber. Thus, advantageously, higher values for the height of the central region of the reduction plate and the angle of inclination of the peripheral region of the reduction chamber, results in a more efficient distribution of the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours.

[0033] Notably, after the synthesis gas is produced in the reduction chamber, the synthesis gas is cooled down to below a critical temperature value which enables to condense and separate different components of the synthesis gas before exiting the reactor. Subsequently, the synthesis gas is passed through a series of heat exchangers which uses water or another form of coolant to cool down the synthesis gas and recuperate process heat.

[0034] Furthermore, the biomass gasification reactor comprises the extractor operatively coupled to the separation & extraction chamber, where the extractor is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "extractor" refers to a component that is responsible to extract the produced synthesis gas from the separation & extraction chamber. Notably, ash is produced as a by-product in the reduction chamber, where the ash is transferred from the reduction chamber to the extractor via holes in the reduction plate. Subsequently, the ash is disposed off in form of flue and fly ash from the extractor. Optionally, the extracted synthesis gas can be processed further to make the synthesis gas suitable to be used in a variety of applications such as for fuel production, chemical synthesis, power generation, and the like. Optionally, the extractor is implemented as a channel, a conduit, a vent, a pipe, and the like.

[0035] Optionally, the synthesis gas is used as an electricity-generating fuel to power a power grid. In this regard, the synthesis gas acts a fuel that is used to generate electricity via using a heat engine coupled with a generator. Subsequently, the generated electricity is then transferred into a power grid. Notably, the electricity stored in the power grid is associated with variable energy pricing (for example, SPOT pricing) Optionally, the power generated using the synthesis gas as the electricity-generating fuel is in a range of 40 to 50 Kilowatts (KW). Thus, advantageously, the synthesis gas acts as a renewable and sustainable source of energy.

[0036] The present disclosure also relates to the system for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor, apply mutatis mutandis to the system.

[0037] The system comprises a plurality of sensors operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor. The term "plurality of sensors" as used herein refers to more than one sensors that are capable to sense values of certain parameters associated with the biomass gasification reactor. It will be appreciated that the plurality of sensors are operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor to detect any change in the values of the certain parameters that are sensed by the plurality of sensors. Optionally, a given sensor from amongst the plurality of sensors is installed either inside the biomass gasification reactor, or over an outer surface of the biomass gasification reactor, or in a vicinity of the biomass gasification reactor.

[0038] Optionally, the plurality of sensors is selected from at least one of: a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, an air flow sensor, a volume sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, a gas sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a mechanical sensor. Thus, beneficially, the plurality of sensors are able to sense a wide range of the input, operating, and output parameters associated with the biomass gasification reactor.

[0039] The plurality of sensors are configured to monitor a set of input parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "input parameters" as used herein refers to those specific parameters that are related to input conditions of the biomass gasification reactor. In other words, the set of input parameters are related to certain conditions or properties before or at an instance of starting point of an operation of the biomass gasification reactor. Optionally, the set of input parameters is selected from at least one of: a quantity of the feed of biomass in the reactor body, a quality of the feed of biomass in the reactor body, a composition of the feed of biomass, and the like.

[0040] Moreover, the plurality of sensors are configured to monitor a set of operating parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "operating parameters" as used herein refers to those specific parameters that are related to the operation of the biomass gasification reactor. In other words, the set of operating parameters are related to certain conditions or properties during a time of the operation of the biomass gasification reactor.

[0041] Optionally, the set of operating parameters is selected from at least one of: a temperature of a gasification reaction, a pressure inside the biomass gasification reactor, a humidity level inside the biomass gasification reactor, a flow rate of a gasifying agent entering the combustion chamber, an air to fuel ratio in the combustion chamber, an air to fuel ratio in the reduction chamber, a power supply to and from the biomass gasification reactor. In this regard, parameters related to different processes taking place in the different parts of the biomass gasification reaction are accurately and precisely monitored. It will be appreciated that different measurements are collected from predefined locations from within the biomass gasification reactor which is subsequently used to computationally, determine averages and aggregated values for the operating parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. Thus, advantageously, the system is able to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor with accuracy and precision.

[0042] Furthermore, the plurality of sensors are configured to monitor a set of output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "output parameters" as used herein refers to those specific parameters that are related to output conditions of the biomass gasification reactor. In other words, the set of output parameters are related to certain conditions or properties after an end of the operation of the biomass gasification reactor. Optionally, the set of output parameters are selected from at least one of: a quantity of the synthesis gas that is produced, a quality of the synthesis gas that is produced, a composition of the synthesis gas that is produced, minimization of tar that is produced, and the like.

[0043] Moreover, the system comprises a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor and configured to regulate one or more of the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "plurality of regulators" refers to those devices that are able to control and regulate a functioning of desired parameters. In other words, a given regulator is able to set a certain value for a given parameter of the biomass gasification reactor. Optionally, the plurality of regulators comprises at least one of: a plurality of actuators, a plurality of controllers, and the like. For example, the plurality of regulators comprises a thermocouple and a pressure actuator, where the thermocouple regulates the temperature of the biomass gasification reactor, and the pressure actuator regulates the pressure inside the biomass gasification reactor. In another example, the actuators in form valves and dampers are used to regulate the air to fuel ratio in the combustion chamber and the air to fuel ratio in the reduction chamber.

[0044] Furthermore, the system comprises the user device associated with the user, having the display unit configured to display the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "user device" as used herein refers to a computing device associated with the user of the biomass gasification reactor. Optionally, the user device is one of: a mobile phone, a computer, a laptop, and the like. The term "display unit" as used herein refers to a screen of the user device. Optionally, the display unit may be selected from liquid crystal display (LCD) light-emitting diode (LED), backlit LCD, thin-film transistor (TFT) LCD, organic LED (OLED), Quantum dot (QLED) display, OLED display, AMOLED display, Super AMOLED display. Optionally, the display unit may comprise a protective covering to protect the display unit against any physical damage.

[0045] The term "virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor" refers to a replica of the biomass gasification reactor that is displayed on the display unit of the device. It will be appreciated that the virtual model is used to represent a virtual working of the various processes involved in the biomass gasification reactor based on the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters, over the display unit of the user device. Notably, the representation of the biomass gasification reactor in the virtual model changes in accordance with the changes in the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters. Optionally, the virtual model is generated on basis of real-time data of plurality of sensors, historical operational data of the biomass gasification reactor, and computer-aided design (CAD) & computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models.

[0046] Optionally, the user device comprises a graphical user interface to enable the user to provide a user input. The term "graphical user interface" as used herein refers to a user interface displayed on the display screen of the user device, which enables the user to interact with system. Subsequently, by using the graphical user interface, the user is able to provide the user input to the system. The term "user input" as used herein refers to those commands and values related to various different parameters and operations associated with the biomass gasification reactor which are received from the user. Optionally, the user input comprises at least one of: user-defined values for the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor, user-defined modified values for the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor, a user-defined output to be achieved from the operation of the biomass gasification reactor. Thus, beneficially, the system is able to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor according to a desired set of values and conditions received from the user in form of the user input.

[0047] Furthermore, the system comprises the server arrangement communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device. The term "server arrangement" as used herein refers to a hardware, software, firmware or a combination of these, suitable for controlling the operation of the system. Examples of the server arrangement include, but are not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or any other type of processing circuit. Furthermore, the server arrangement may refer to one or more individual server arrangements, serving devices and various elements associated with a serving device that may be shared by other serving devices. Additionally, one or more individual server arrangements, serving devices and elements are arranged in various architectures for responding to and processing the instructions that drive the system.

[0048] The server arrangement is configured to receive, from the plurality of sensors, the information about the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor. Notably, by receiving the information about the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor enables the server to determine working conditions at which the biomass gasification reactor is operating at that given moment of time at which the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters were sensed.

[0049] Moreover, the server arrangement is configured to execute the simulation module to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, the simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the respective received sets of input, operating and output parameters. The term "simulation model" as used herein refers to a mathematical model that used to predict the working and the operation of a said process based on values of said parameters. Subsequently, the simulation model is used to predict the working and the operation of the biomass gasification reactor based on given values of the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters. The term "simulated output" as used herein refers to the predicted output of the working and the operation of the biomass gasification reactor that is generated by the simulation model. Notably, the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor is used by the simulation model for virtually representing the simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor in the display unit of the user device.

[0050] Furthermore, the server arrangement is configured to create the training dataset by pairing the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor. The term "training dataset" as used herein refers to a dataset that is used to train the machine learning model to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor. It will be appreciated that the machine learning model is trained to use the plurality of regulators to regulate the values of the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters according to the values in the pairing of the training dataset. Notably, the output after operating the biomass gasification reactor based on the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters is equal to the simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor. It will be appreciated that the machine learning model enables to analyze and study different patterns and relationships between the least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters, and the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor in the training dataset.

[0051] Optionally, the server arrangement is further configured to create the training dataset of the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with a historical output data of the biomass gasification reactor or the user input received from the user device. Herein, the term "historical output data" refers to the output that has been achieved from the operation of the biomass gasification reactor in past, which indicates a performance of the biomass gasification reactor in the past. Optionally, the system receives the historical output data from a cloud-based database that is communicably coupled with the system. Thus, advantageously, the server arrangement is able to train the machine learning model according to the performance of the biomass gasification reactor in the past, in order to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor to achieve a similar performance as achieved in the past. Likewise, creating the training dataset of the server arrangement is further configured to create the training pair of the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters the user input received from the user device, advantageously, enables the server arrangement to train the machine learning model based on the user input, to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor for achieving a desired output which is determined from the user input.

[0052] Furthermore, the server arrangement is configured to determine whether the training dataset is associated with the desired simulated output in the virtual model. The term "desired simulated output" refers to a given simulated output generated by the simulation model, which is having desired values of the output for the biomass gasification reactor. Notably, the simulated output in the training dataset is compared with the desired simulated output to determine whether the desired values of the output for the biomass gasification reactor are obtained or not, based on the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters in the training dataset. Herein, the training dataset is associated with the desired simulated output when the simulated output in the training dataset is equal to or more than the desired simulated output.

[0053] Furthermore, when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output, the server arrangement is configured to modify at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters and generate the new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters. The term "new simulated output" refers to a new output of the working of the biomass gasification reactor that is generated by the simulation module based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters. It will be appreciated that the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters are modified in such a way to generate the new simulated output, which is associated with the desired simulated output.

[0054] Furthermore, when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output, the server arrangement is configured to create the new training dataset by pairing the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor. Herein, the new training dataset is created to train the machine learning model according to the pairing of the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor.

[0055] Furthermore, when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output, the server arrangement is configured to execute the machine learning module to remotely operate, via the plurality of regulators, the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters. The term "remotely operate" as used herein refers to controlling the working of the biomass gasification reactor from a remote location without the need for the user to be present on a site of the biomass gasification reactor. It will be appreciated that the biomass gasification reactor is remotely operated by adjusting the values of the input, operating, and output parameters according to the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters, using the plurality of regulators. Notably, by remotely operating the biomass gasification reactor, the output that is achieved is equal to or more than the desired simulated output, as the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output.

[0056] The present disclosure also relates to the method for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned biomass gasification reactor, apply mutatis mutandis to the method.

[0057] Optionally, the the method further comprises receiving a user input via a graphical user interface of the user device.

[0058] Optionally, the method further comprises operating the server arrangement to create the training dataset of at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with a historical output data of the biomass gasification reactor or the user input received from the user device.

[0059] The present disclosure also relates to the computer program product as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned system and the aforementioned method, apply mutatis mutandis to the computer program product.

[0060] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "computer program product" refers to a software product comprising program instructions that are recorded on the non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium, wherein the software product is executable upon a computing hardware (i.e., the processor) for implementing the aforementioned steps of the method for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor.

[0061] The program instructions stored on the non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium can direct the processor to function in a particular manner, such that the processor executes processing steps for the method for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor. Examples of the non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium includes, but are not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0062] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "processor" refers to a device that is capable of processing the program instructions of the computer program product. Optionally, the processor is implemented as a part of a computing device. The processor may, for example, be a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a processing unit, or similar.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a biomass gasification reactor 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the biomass gasification reactor 100 has a cylindrical cross-section with an opening 100A, of a smaller diameter as compared to the cylindrical body of the biomass gasification reactor 100, arranged atop the cylindrical body of the biomass gasification reactor 100. Notably, opening 100A enables the biomass gasification reactor 100 to be supplied with a feed of biomass (namely, fuel). A biomass gasification reactor 100 comprises a reactor body 102 configured to receive and heat a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours; a combustion chamber 104 operatively coupled to the reactor body 102 and having a first end 104A and a second end 104B opposite to the first end 104A. As shown, the combustion chamber 104 is arranged annularly inside the reactor body 102. The combustion chamber 104 is configured to receive, via a plurality of inlet holes 106 arranged at the first end 104A, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body 102; and mix and recirculate the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means 108, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours.

[0064] Moreover, the biomass gasification reactor 100 comprises a reduction chamber 110 comprising a reduction plate 112 configured to create a pressure differential to receive the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours, and reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end 104B of the combustion chamber 104, to produce a synthesis gas. As shown, a distance of a central region 112A of the reduction plate 112 from the combustion chamber 104 is lower than a distance of a peripheral region 112B of the reduction plate 112 from the combustion chamber 104.

[0065] Furthermore, the biomass gasification reactor 100 comprises an extractor 114 for extracting the produced synthesis gas from the biomass gasification reactor 100.

[0066] It may be understood by a person skilled in the art that the FIG. 1 includes a simplified architecture of the biomass gasification reactor 100 for sake of clarity, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It is to be understood that the specific implementation of the biomass gasification reactor 100 is provided as an example and is not to be construed as limiting it to specific numbers or types. The person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0067] Referring to FIGs. 2-6, illustrated are schematic illustrations of various components of a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 2 illustrates a plurality of inlet holes 106, arranged at the first end 104A of the combustion chamber 104, configured to receive pyrolysis gases and vapours from reactor body 102. As shown, the plurality of inlet holes 106 are arranged in a manner that each row of holes comprises 3 holes. Moreover, the three holes in each row have varying inner diameters, such that the outer-most two inlet holes 106A and 106B have a same smaller inner diameter and the inner-most inlet holes 106C has a larger inner diameter compared to the outer-most two inlet holes 106A and 106B. Notably, a number of inlet holes 106 in each row is proportional to the inner diameter of the inlet holes 106. In other words, by changing the inner diameter of the inlet holes 106, the number of inlet holes 106 in each row also changes.

[0069] FIG. 3A-D illustrates a set of circulating means 108 configured to supply air into the combustion chamber 104. The supplied air mixes with the pyrolysis gases and vapours in the combustion chamber 104, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours. As shown in FIGs. 3A-D, the set of circulating means 108 is designed as such to introduce a swirling motion into the supplied air that passes through the set of circulating means 108 into the combustion chamber 104. As shown, each of two consecutive circular means 108A and 108B from amongst the set of circular means 108 are arranged at a predefined angle, wherein the predefined angle is in a range of 5 to 150 degrees. As shown in FIG. 3C, the predefined angle of the two consecutive circular means 108A and 108B is 120°. It will be appreciated that as the number of circulating means 108 increases, the predefined angle of the two consecutive circular means 108A and 108B changes. As illustrated in FIG. 3D, the predefined angle of the circular means 108A in relation to 108B is 55°.

[0070] FIG. 4 illustrates a reduction plate 112. The reduction plate 112 is configured to slow down the movement of the reduced pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reduction chamber 110 towards the extractor 114. As shown, the reduction plate 112 comprises a plurality of holes 112C along its diameter D. Moreover, as shown, a distance of a central region 112A of the reduction plate 112 from the combustion chamber 104 is lower than a distance of a peripheral region 112B of the reduction plate 112 from the combustion chamber 104. Furthermore, a height H of the central region 112A of the reduction plate 112 and an angle of inclination a of the peripheral region 112B of the reduction plate 112 is associated with a diameter D of the reduction plate 112.

[0071] FIGs. 5A-F illustrate exemplary cross-sections of a reduction plate 112. As shown, the cross-sections of a reduction plate 112 may be any shape practically that has a middle part higher than sides. For example, the cross-sections of a reduction plate 112 may be a triangle, a semi-circle, a convex, and so on. As shown, the cross-sections of the reduction plate 112 may be a triangle-atop-triangle-shaped curve with an angle a1 and height h1 (as shown in FIG. 5A); a semi-circle with an angle a2 and height h2 (as shown in FIG. 5B); a skewed triangle with an angle a3 and height h3 (as shown in FIG. 5C); a bell-shaped curve with an angle a4 and height h4 (as shown in FIG. 5D); a convex (triangle with curved sides) with an angle a5 and height h5 (as shown in FIG. 5E); a multistep staircase-type triangle with an angle a6 and height h6 (as shown in FIG. 5F). It will be appreciated that in FIG. 5A, the steps may have an angle β similar to or different from the angle a1.

[0072] FIG. 6 illustrates an extractor 114. As shown, the extractor 114 is coupled to the reduction chamber 102. The extractor 114 is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber 102. The extracted synthesis gas is then stored in the extractor 114, from where the extracted synthesis gas can be further processed to make the synthesis gas suitable for a variety of applications. Notably, the extractor 114 is installed in a separation and extraction strata part of the reactor body 102.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 7, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a biomass gasification reactor 100 stratification, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the biomass gasification reactor 100 is stratified into a drying stratum 702, a pyrolysis and partial oxidation stratum 704, a reduction stratum 706, and a separation stratum 708. It will be appreciated that the temperature conditions are different for different strata. As shown, the temperature of the drying stratum 702 is in a range of 300-500°C, the temperature of the pyrolysis and partial oxidation stratum 702 is in a range of 1000-1250°C, the temperature of the reduction stratum 702 is in a range of 650-800°C, and the temperature of the separation stratum 702 is below 600°C. The biomass gasification reactor 100 receives a feed of biomass 710 at the drying stratum 702 and ambient air 712 at the pyrolysis and partial oxidation stratum 704 for partial oxidation of the pyrolysis gases and vapours for production of synthesis gas 714 that is removed via an extractor 114 from the reduction stratum 706. The by-product 716 of the gasification process, namely ash, is removed from the separation stratum 708.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 8, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a temperature profile (right panel) of a biomass gasification reactor 100 (left panel), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As mentioned before, the biomass gasification reactor 100 is stratified into different strata, each of which is configured to operate at a different temperature to result in the desired yield and quality of the synthesis gas. In this regard, as shown, a top-most layer TC-1, namely the space between the reactor body 102 and a first end 104A of the combustion chamber 104 (at a height ranging between 1000-1200 mm from a ground level) of the biomass gasification reactor 100 is less than 200°C. A space covered by a second layer T C-2 and a third layer TC-3, namely the first end 104A and a second end 104B of the combustion chamber 104, respectively, (at a height ranging between 780-1000 mm from the ground level) of the biomass gasification reactor 100 is in a temperature range between 350°C and >1200°C. It will be appreciated that the space covered by the second layer T2 and the third layer TC-3 is configured for an exothermic reaction. A space covered by the third layer TC-3 and a fourth layer TC-4, namely the second end 104B of the combustion chamber 104 and a first end of the reduction chamber 110 (at a height ranging between 400-780 mm from the ground level) of the biomass gasification reactor 100 is in a temperature range between 800°C and <1200°C, wherein the temperature starts to drop towards the first end of the reduction chamber 110. It will be appreciated that the space covered by the reduction chamber 110 is configured for an endothermic reaction. Moreover, as pyrolyzed gases and vapours move down from the reduction chamber 110 towards the extractor 114 at a fifth layer TC-OUT (at a height of 200 mm from the ground level), the temperature drops further down to 600°C.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 9, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a biomass gasification reactor 100 with vertical fuel storage 902, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The vertical fuel storage 902 provides the fuel to the bioreactor in conjunction with the auxiliary fuelfeed components.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 10, illustrated is an exemplary implementation 1000 of a biomass gasification reactor 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the biomass gasification reactor 100 is employed for power generation. In this regard, the synthesis gas produced by the biomass gasification reactor 100 is used as an electricity-generating fuel to power a power grid (not shown). In this regard, the biomass gasification reactor 100 is coupled to a generator 1002 (depicted as dashed square) that is configured to produce the electricity from the synthesis gas to power the power grid. Moreover, a series of devices are connected between the biomass gasification reactor 100 and the generator 1002. As shown, a fist pump 1004 is operably coupled with the biomass gasification reactor 100 and configured to provide the ambient air to the biomass gasification reactor 100. Notably, the produced synthesis gas is directed outwards from the biomass gasification reactor 100 through an extractor 114.

[0077] As shown, a first heat exchanger 1006 is coupled to the extractor 114 of the biomass gasification reactor 100 to maintain the optimum output temperature of the synthesis gas. Notably, the first heat exchanger 1006 cools the synthesis gas. It will be appreciated that the first heat exchanger 1006 is arranged to allow a coolant (such as water or another cooling fluid) to flow therein to lower the temperature of the synthesis gas. A coolant storage unit 1008 is configured to store the coolant therein. The coolant storage unit 1008 comprises a pump 1010 configured to supply coolant to the first heat exchanger 1006. The synthesis gas passes from the first heat exchanger 1006 through a pressure valve 1012. The pressure valve 1012 is configured to regulate the pressure of the synthesis gas. As shown, the generator 1002 further comprises a second pump 1014 to control syngas flow. The synthesis gas further passes through a heat engine 1016 configured to generate rotational shaft output. The heat engine 1016 is operatively coupled to a generator 1018 that is arranged to generate the electrical output of the mechanical output from the heat engine 1016. The output synthesis gas from the heat engine 1016 then passes through a second heat exchanger 1020 for recuperating the heat from the output exhaust gases. The produced electricity is transferred via fixed cable coupling for further rectification, transformation and consumption 1022.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 11, illustrated is a schematic illustration of a system 1100 for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 1100 comprises the biomass gasification reactor 100 of FIG. 1. Moreover, the system 1100 comprises a plurality of sensors (not shown) operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor 100 and configured to monitor a set of input parameters of the biomass gasification reactor 100; a set of operating parameters of the biomass gasification reactor 100; and a set of output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor 100. Furthermore, the system 1100 comprises a plurality of regulators (not shown) operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor 100 and configured to regulate one or more of the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor 100.

[0079] Furthermore, the system 1100 comprises a user device 1102 having a display unit 1104 configured to display a virtual model 1106 (namely, a digital twin) of the biomass gasification reactor 100. Moreover, the user device 1102 comprises a graphical user interface 1110, rendered on the display unit 1104, to enable a user to provide a user input.

[0080] Furthermore, the system 1100 comprises a server arrangement 1108 communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor 100 and the user device 1102. The server arrangement 1108 is configured to receive, from the plurality of sensors, information about the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor 100; execute a simulation module to generate, using the virtual model 1106 of the biomass gasification reactor 100, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor 100 based on the respective received sets of input, operating and output parameters; create a training dataset by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and/or output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor 100; determine whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model. Moreover, when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output, the server arrangement 1108 is configured to modify the set of operating parameters and generate a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor 100 based on the modified set of operating parameters; and create a new training dataset by pairing the modified set of operating parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor 100. Furthermore, when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output, the server arrangement 1108 is configured to execute a machine learning module to remotely operate, via the plurality of regulators, the biomass gasification reactor 100 based on the modified set of operating parameters.

[0081] Moreover, the server arrangement 1108 is further configured to create the training pair of the set of operating parameters with a historical output data of the biomass gasification reactor 100 or the user input received from the user device 1102.

[0082] Referring to FIGs. 12A-D, illustrated is a flowchart 1200 of steps of a method for for remotely operating a biomass gasification reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 1202, the biomass gasification reactor is arranged. At step 1202A, a feed of biomass is received and heated, in a reactor body, to produce pyrolysis gases and vapour. At step 1202B, the pyrolysis gases and vapours are received from the reactor body, via a plurality of inlet means arranged at a first end of a combustion chamber operatively coupled to the reactor body. At step 1202C, the pyrolysis gases and vapours are mixed with air, passed from a set of circulating means arranged with the combustion chamber, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours. At step 1202D. the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from a second end of the combustion chamber are reduced, in a reduction chamber comprising a reduction plate, to produce a synthesis gas.

[0083] At step 1204, a virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor is displayed on a user device having a display unit.

[0084] At step 1206, a server arrangement, communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device, is operated. At step 1206A, information about respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor is received from a plurality of sensors. At step 1206B, a simulation module is executed to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the received respective sets of input, operating and output parameters. At step 1206C, a training dataset is created by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor. At step 1206D, it is determined whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model. At step 1206E, when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output, the set of operating parameters are modified and a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor is generated based on the modified set of operating parameters; and a new training dataset is created by pairing the modified set of operating parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor. Moreover, when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output, a machine learning module is executed to remotely operate one or more of the set of operating parameters, via a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor, the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified set of operating parameters.

[0085] The aforementioned steps 1202, 1202A, 1202B, 1202C, 1202D, 1204, 1206, 1206A, 1206B, 1206C, 1206D, and 1206E are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

[0086] In the invention the amount of inlet holes is proportional to the inlet nozzle sizes for the air. Therefore the amount of holes per row and their size are not fixed. By changing the air inlet nozzles to a smaller diameter, the combustion chamber inlets must also be changed.

[0087] In the invention the part of the reactor that exists below the reduction plate, where the extractor is installed is being referred to as the "separation & extraction strata"

[0088] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a nonexclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims

1. A biomass gasification reactor (100) comprising:

- a reactor body (102) configured to receive and heat a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- a combustion chamber (104) operatively coupled to the reactor body and having a first end (104A) and a second end (104B) opposite to the first end, the combustion chamber is configured to

- receive, via a plurality of inlet means (106) arranged at the first end, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body; and

- mix and recirculate the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means (108), to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- a reduction chamber (110) comprising a reduction plate (112) configured to create a pressure differential to receive the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours, and reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and

- an extractor (114) operatively coupled to the reduction chamber, where the extractor is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber.

2. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to claim 1, wherein the combustion chamber (104) is arranged inside the reactor body, preferably, arranged annularly inside the reactor body (102).

3. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the biomass in the reactor body (102) is heated through convection, conduction and radiation heat derived from the combustion chamber (104).

4. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of two consecutive circulating means (108A, 108B) from amongst the set of circulating means (108) are arranged at a predefined angle, wherein the predefined angle is in a range of 5 to 150 degrees.

5. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a distance of a central region (112A) of the reduction plate (112) from the combustion chamber (104) is lower than a distance of a peripheral region (112B) of the reduction plate from the combustion chamber.

6. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a height (H) of the central region (112A) of the reduction plate (112) and an angle of inclination (a) of the peripheral region (112B) of the reduction plate is associated with a diameter (D) of the reduction plate.

7. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pyrolysis gases and vapours are received in the combustion chamber (104) from the reactor body (102) at subsonic speeds, preferably in a range of 10m/s to 100m/s.

8. The biomass gasification reactor (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the synthesis gas is used as an electricity-generating fuel to power a power grid.

9. A system (1100) for remotely operating the biomass gasification reactor (100) of any of the claims 1-8, the system comprising:

- the biomass gasification reactor comprising:

- a reactor body (102) configured to receive and heat a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- a combustion chamber (104) operatively coupled to the reactor body and having a first end (104A) and a second end (104B) opposite to the first end, the combustion chamber is configured to:

- receive, via a plurality of inlet means (106) arranged at the first end, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body; and

- mix the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means (108), to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- a reduction chamber (110) comprising a reduction plate (112) configured to reduce the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from the second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and

- an extractor (114) operatively coupled to the reduction chamber, where the extractor is configured to extract the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber;

- a plurality of sensors operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor and configured to monitor:

- a set of input parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;

- a set of operating parameters of the biomass gasification reactor; and

- a set of output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;

- a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor and configured to regulate one or more of the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;

- a user device (1102) associated with a user, having a display unit (1104) configured to display a virtual model (1106) of the biomass gasification reactor; and

- a server arrangement (1108) communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device, and configured to:

- receive, from the plurality of sensors, information about the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;

- execute a simulation module to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the respective received sets of input, operating and output parameters;

- create a training dataset by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor;

- determine whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model; and

- when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output

- modify at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters and generate a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters; and

- create a new training dataset by pairing the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor; and

- when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output

- execute a machine learning module to remotely operate the biomass gasification reactor, via the plurality of regulators, based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters.

10. The system (1100) according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of sensors is selected from at least one of: a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, an air flow sensor, a volume sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, a gas sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a mechanical sensor.

11. The system (1100) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the set of operating parameters is selected from at least one of: a temperature of a gasification reaction, a pressure inside the biomass gasification reactor (100), a humidity level inside the biomass gasification reactor, a flow rate of a gasifying agent entering the combustion chamber (104), an air to fuel ratio in the combustion chamber, an air to fuel ratio in the reduction chamber (110), a power supply to and from the biomass gasification reactor.

12. The system (1100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user device (1102) comprises a graphical user interface (1110) to enable the user to provide a user input.

13. The system (1100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the server arrangement is further configured to create the training dataset of the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with a historical output data of the biomass gasification reactor (100) or the user input received from the user device (1102).

14. A method for remotely operating the biomass gasification reactor (100) of any of the claims 1-8, the method comprising:

- arranging the biomass gasification reactor (100) for

- receiving and heating, in a reactor body (102), a feed of biomass to produce pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- receiving, via a plurality of inlet means (106) arranged at a first end (104A) of a combustion chamber (104), operatively coupled to the reactor body, the pyrolysis gases and vapours from the reactor body;

- mixing the pyrolysis gases and vapours with air, passed from a set of circulating means (108) arranged with the combustion chamber, to produce partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours;

- reducing, in a reduction chamber (110) comprising a reduction plate (112), the partially oxidized pyrolysis gases and vapours received from a second end of the combustion chamber, to produce a synthesis gas; and

- extracting the produced synthesis gas from the reduction chamber, via an extractor (114) operatively coupled to the reduction chamber;

- displaying, on a user device (1102) associated with a user, having a display unit (1104), a virtual model (1106) of the biomass gasification reactor; and

- operating a server arrangement (1108), communicably coupled to the biomass gasification reactor and the user device, to:

- receive, from a plurality of sensors, information about respective sets of input, operating and output parameters of the biomass gasification reactor;

- execute a simulation module to generate, using the virtual model of the biomass gasification reactor, a simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the received respective sets of input, operating and output parameters;

- create a training dataset by pairing at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with the corresponding simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor;

- determine whether the training dataset is associated with a desired simulated output in the virtual model; and

- when the simulated output is less than the desired simulated output

- modify the at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters and generate a new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters; and

- create a new training dataset by pairing the modified at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating, and output parameters with the corresponding new simulated output of the biomass gasification reactor; and

- when the new simulated output is equal to or more than the desired simulated output

- execute a machine learning module to remotely operate one or more of the set of operating parameters, via a plurality of regulators operatively coupled with the biomass gasification reactor, the biomass gasification reactor based on the modified set of operating parameters.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the method further comprises receiving a user input via a graphical user interface (1110) of the user device (1102).

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the method further comprises operating the server arrangement (1108) to create the training dataset of at least one of: the respective sets of input, operating and output parameters with a historical output data of the biomass gasification reactor (100) or the user input received from the user device (1102).

17. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium having stored thereon program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to execute steps of a method of any of claims 14-16.

Drawing