Method for monitoring the health of an electric machine

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a method for monitoring the health of an electric power system or its electric machine. The method includes imaging a rotor at the beginning of a spin down process to determine a first rotor temperature and imaging the rotor at the end of or after the spin down process to determine a second rotor temperature to determine a rotor temperature drop. A maximum rotor temperature can be determined as the sum of the temperature after the spin down process and the rotor temperature drop, which can be used to indicate the health of the electric power system or electric machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for monitoring the health of an electric motor. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical power systems (such as electric motors) are used in energy conversion and generation. In the aircraft industry, motor mode and generator mode are often combined in the same motor, where the motor is used to start the engine in motor mode and, depending on the mode, also acts as a generator. As a generator, the motor may have a rotor driven by a rotating source (such as a mechanical machine or electric motor), which, for some aircraft, may be a gas turbine engine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical Solution 1. A method for imaging an electric motor, the method comprising: To generate an electric current by rotating a rotor that is separated from the stator; The rotation of the rotor is slowed down during the spin deceleration process; The rotor is imaged at the start of the spin deceleration process to determine the first rotor temperature; At the end of the spin deceleration process, the rotor is imaged to determine the temperature of the second rotor. The amount of rotor temperature reduction is defined as the difference between the first rotor temperature and the second rotor temperature. Image the rotor after the spin deceleration process has ended to determine the temperature of the third rotor; and The highest rotor temperature is determined to be the sum of the third rotor temperature and the amount of rotor temperature reduction.

[0004] Technical Solution 2. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the motor is a generator.

[0005] Technical Solution 3. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes comparing the highest rotor temperature with a threshold temperature.

[0006] Technical Solution 4. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes determining the health of the motor based on the comparison between the highest rotor temperature and the threshold temperature.

[0007] Technical Solution 5. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes outputting at least one of the highest rotor temperature or the health of the motor to a display.

[0008] Technical Solution 6. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the highest rotor temperature is determined each time the rotor slows down during the spin deceleration process, so as to determine the trend of the highest rotor temperature over time.

[0009] Technical Solution 7. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes determining, based on the trend, when the highest rotor temperature will exceed a threshold temperature.

[0010] Technical Solution 8. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the imaging of the rotor is accomplished using a camera mounted on the motor.

[0011] Technical Solution 9. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the camera is an infrared camera.

[0012] Technical Solution 10. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein imaging the rotor further includes determining the emissivity of the rotor.

[0013] Technical Solution 11. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein imaging the rotor further includes imaging the rotor multiple times during the spin deceleration process.

[0014] Technical Solution 12. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein multiple imaging of the rotor further includes imaging the rotor after the start of the spin deceleration process and before the end of the spin deceleration process.

[0015] Technical Solution 13. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes associating the highest rotor temperature with load conditions for the rotor to determine the health of the rotor.

[0016] Technical Solution 14. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the load condition is one of electrical load, operating conditions, or the rotational speed of the rotor.

[0017] Technical Solution 15. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein associating the highest rotor temperature with the load condition further includes comparing the highest rotor temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold temperature also associated with the load condition.

[0018] Technical Solution 16. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the health is based on the comparison between the highest rotor temperature associated with the load condition and the threshold temperature associated with the load condition.

[0019] Technical Solution 17. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes stopping the rotation of the rotor after the spin deceleration process ends and before imaging the rotor.

[0020] Technical Solution 18. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions further includes outputting the highest rotor temperature to a display.

[0021] Technical Solution 19. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein imaging the rotor further comprises imaging the rotor using a camera, and wherein the method further comprises cleaning the camera using an air curtain provided by an air circuit passing through the camera.

[0022] Technical Solution 20. The method according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein imaging the rotor further comprises imaging the rotor using a camera, and wherein the method further comprises cooling the camera using an air supply provided by an air circuit passing through the camera. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The complete and feasible disclosure of this description, including its best mode, is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 It is an isometric view of a turbine engine having an electric power system including a generator, based on the various aspects described in this article.

[0024] Figure 2 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 1 A schematic view of the electrical power system.

[0025] Figure 3 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 1 An isometric view of the generator.

[0026] Figure 4 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the generator taken along line IV-IV.

[0027] Figure 5 Based on the various aspects described in this article Figure 3 An isometric view of the camera used inside the generator.

[0028] Figure 6 It is based on the various aspects described in this article. Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken by the camera along line VI-VI.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a flowchart depicting a method for imaging an electric power system based on the various aspects described herein.

[0030] Figure 8This is a flowchart depicting a method for monitoring the health of an electrical power system based on the various aspects described in this article.

[0031] Figure 9 It describes the determination of the motor based on the various aspects described in this article (such as...). Figure 3 A flowchart of a method for ensuring the health of a generator. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This document describes aspects of the disclosure within the context of turbine engines and power generation sources for or carrying turbine engines in aircraft, including direct current (DC) power generation sources that enable the generation of electrical power from energy sources such as turbine engines, jet fuel, hydrogen, batteries, etc. However, it will be understood that the disclosure is not so limited and is generally applicable to electrical power systems involved in power distribution or power generation systems in non-aircraft applications, including other mobile applications as well as non-mobile industrial, commercial, and residential applications. For example, applicable mobile environments may include aircraft, spacecraft, space launch vehicles, satellites, trains, automobiles, etc. Commercial environments may include manufacturing facilities or power generation and distribution facilities or infrastructure. Furthermore, such electrical power systems may be utilized in conjunction with turbines or may not require the involvement of turbines.

[0033] As used herein, the term "group" or a "group" of elements can refer to any number of elements, including only one.

[0034] Additionally, as used herein, while a sensor may be described as “sensing” or “measuring” a corresponding value, sensing or measuring may include determining a value that indicates or is associated with the corresponding value, rather than directly sensing or measuring the value itself. The sensed or measured value may be further provided to additional components. For example, the value may be provided to a controller module or processor, which may perform processing on the value to determine an electrical characteristic representing the value or said value.

[0035] As used herein, the term "real-time" can refer to the time during which a system operates, such as the operation of an electrical power system or its components or parts (such as a motor). Measurements taken by sensors described herein (such as cameras or partial discharge sensors) can process data to provide signals that are nearly immediate (such as within milliseconds or faster) representing the current state of the system.

[0036] All directional references (e.g., radial, axial, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and do not impose limitations, particularly regarding their location, orientation, or purpose. Connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and link) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate components between a series of elements and relative movement between elements, unless otherwise indicated. Accordingly, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected to each other and are in a fixed relationship. In non-limiting examples, a connector or disconnector may be selectively configured to provide, enable, disable, etc., an electrical connection between the respective elements. Non-limiting examples include power distribution bus connectors or disconnectors that can be enabled or operated by means of a switch, bus connection logic, or any other connector configured to enable or disable the energization of electrical loads downstream of the bus. Additionally, as used herein, "electrical connection" or "electrical coupling" may include wired or wireless connections. The exemplary drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the accompanying drawings may vary.

[0037] As used herein, the term "electric power system" refers to an electrical component or assembly associated with the generation of electrical power or the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy or motion. An electric power system may include batteries or other power storage devices, converters, inverters, power cables or connectors, and motors, as well as their components.

[0038] As used herein, the term "electric motor" refers to an electrical component or assembly related to the generation of electrical power, which uses electromagnetic force to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, or vice versa. Electric motors may include generators, starters, motors, transformers, or components thereof, including but not limited to rotors, stators, bearings, or shafts.

[0039] Additionally, as used herein, a “controller” or “controller module” can include a component configured or adapted to provide instructions, control, operation, or any form of communication to an operable component to enable its operation. A controller module can include any known processor, microcontroller, or logic device, including but not limited to: field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), full-authority digital engine control (FADECs), proportional controllers (P), proportional-integral controllers (PI), proportional-derivative controllers, proportional-integral-derivative controllers (PID controllers), hardware-accelerated logic controllers (e.g., for encoding, decoding, transcoding, etc.), and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of controller modules include those configured or adapted to run, operate, or otherwise execute program code to achieve operational or functional results, including performing various methods, functions, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measuring values, etc., to enable or implement the technical operations or actions described herein. Operational or functional results may be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or false indications, etc. While “program code” is described, non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing a particular task or implementing a particular abstract data type. In another non-limiting example, the controller module may also include data storage components accessible by the processor, including memory, whether transient, volatile, or non-transient, or non-volatile memory.

[0040] Additional non-limiting examples of memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory (such as discs, DVDs, CD-ROMs, flash drives, Universal Serial Bus (USB) drives, etc.), or any suitable combination of these types of memory. In one example, program code may be stored in memory in a machine-readable format accessible to a processor. Additionally, as described herein, memory may store various types of data, sensed or measured data values, input, generated or processed data, etc., which may be accessed by a processor in providing instructions, control, or operation to achieve a function or operable result. In another non-limiting example, a control module may include comparing a first value with a second value and operating or controlling the operation of additional components based on the satisfaction of that comparison. For example, when a sensed, measured, or provided value is compared with another value (including a stored or predetermined value, such as a threshold), the satisfaction of that comparison (such as satisfying or exceeding such a threshold) may cause an action, function, or operation controllable by a controller module. It will be understood that such determination can be readily changed to be satisfied by a positive / negative comparison or a true / false comparison. Example comparisons may include comparing a sensed value or measurement value with a threshold or threshold range.

[0041] The aspects of this disclosure can be implemented in any environment where an electric power system is used. For the purposes of this description, such an electric power system will be generally referred to as one or more electrical components, such as those used to generate power for a turbine engine, including but not limited to batteries, converters, inverters, generators, motors, starters, motor assemblies, transformers, or similar terms, and their components, such as one or more stator / rotor assemblies for a generator. It should be appreciated that while this description relates to electric power systems for turbine engines, an electric power system does not need to be specific to or associated with a turbine or turbine engine. While this description is primarily directed to electric power systems that provide power generation, it is also applicable to electric power systems that provide both driving force and power generation. Additionally, it is also applicable to motors, such as motors that provide driving force to propellers in an electric aircraft propulsion system (EAP). For example, a generator may include a starter / generator, a multi-winding or output generator, etc. Furthermore, while this description is primarily directed to an aircraft environment, the aspects of this disclosure are applicable to any environment where an electric power system is used.

[0042] The exemplary drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the accompanying drawings may vary.

[0043] Figure 1 The illustration depicts a turbine engine 10 according to an aspect of this disclosure, having an electric power system 12 including an accessory gearbox (AGB) 14 and a generator 16. In a non-limiting example, the turbine engine 10 may be a turbofan engine, but any turbine engine or turbine is contemplated. The AGB 14 may be coupled to the turbine shaft of the turbine engine 10 via a power converter 18 (such as a mechanical power converter). Although a generator 16, such as an AC generator, is shown and described, aspects of this disclosure may include any electric motor, including but not limited to electrical components, generators, starters, motors, transformers, or components thereof. Non-limiting examples of electric power system components may include batteries, fuel cells, converters, inverters, motors, etc.

[0044] Figure 2 Illustration Figure 1 A schematic view of an electric power system 12, which includes a battery 50, a converter 52, an inverter 54, and a motor 56. The battery 50 can be any energy storage unit or system, such as a unit or system for storing electrical or chemical energy, as in a non-limiting example, a fuel cell. The converter 52 provides the conversion of energy from the battery 50 into a usable form, such as a DC-DC converter in a non-limiting example. The inverter 54 converts DC from the converter 52 to AC and can be any component that provides the conversion of electrical power between AC and DC. The motor 56 can be, for example... Figure 1The generator 16 can provide the conversion of AC electrical energy supplied from the inverter 54 into mechanical energy. For example, the motor 56 can be a generator, a motor, or any other system for restoring mechanical energy from energy supplied from the battery 50. In an additional, non-limiting example, the power system 12 can provide the conversion of the mechanical energy driving the motor 56 into electrical energy, which can be converted by the inverter 54 and the converter 52 into a form that can be stored in the battery 50. Furthermore, the power system 12 can include cables or connectors connecting one or more of the elements or components of the battery 50, the converter 52, the inverter 54, or the motor 56.

[0045] Figure 3 The diagram shows a motor 120, which is a generator 90. For example, it could be... Figure 2 motor 56 Figure 1 The generator 90 is a rotating machine comprising a rotor and stator assembly to generate a current supply. According to an aspect of this disclosure, the generator 90 includes a housing 92. The housing 92 may include a first end 94 and an opposing second end 96. Electrical connections (not shown) may be coupled to the generator 90 to provide electrical power transfer to and from the generator 90. Such electrical connections may be further connected via cables to a rectifier, a converter, and then to a turbine engine 10 (…). Figure 1 The generator 90 is an electrical power distribution node for the aircraft, providing power to various components on the aircraft, such as the excitation electrical environmental control system, altitude transient electrical loads, electrical de-icing loads, lights, and seat back monitors. In a non-limiting example, additional components (e.g., rectifiers, converters, etc.) may be integrated with the generator 90, or may be remotely located, separate from, or detached from the generator 90.

[0046] In a non-limiting example, generator 90 may be a synchronous generator or an asynchronous generator. Additionally, for a particular application, other components may need to be included or connected to generator 90. For example, components from turbine engine 10 may be present. Figure 1 Other accessories, such as liquid coolant pumps, fluid compressors, or hydraulic pumps, that are driven by the same rotatable shaft as the HP and LP shafts and are operatively connected to or otherwise connected to the generator 90.

[0047] During power generation operation, the rotation transmitted to generator 90 ultimately induces or generates current in the stator windings contained within generator 90. Generator 90 supplies the generated current to power or excite a group of electrical loads. Specifically, the rotation of a set of permanent magnets coupled to the rotor relative to the stator windings generates current in the stator windings, which is ultimately supplied to a group of electrical loads or an electrical bus.

[0048] The health monitoring system 88 may include a first sensor, which may be an infrared sensor or a camera 100, coupled or attached to the housing 92 at a second end 96, such that the camera 100 can image the interior of the generator 90. In a non-limiting example, the camera 100 may be an infrared sensor or an ultraviolet sensor. The camera 100 may generate a signal representing the temperature of the motor 120. The camera 100 may be advantageous compared to thermocouples or RTD sensors because the camera 100 can provide the temperature distribution over an area or zone of the motor 120, while thermocouples and RTD sensors measure a single location. In a non-limiting example, the camera 100 may be small, such as about 1 inch in size, or 1.5 inches or less, or 1 inch or less in a non-limiting example. For the camera 100, such a small size allows for in-situ integration into the generator 90 or its housing 92, providing a negligible increase in the size or weight of the generator 90, such as less than 1% individually or collectively compared to a similar generator without the camera 100, or even a lighter generator including the camera 100 compared to a generator without the camera 100, or a group of multiple cameras 100. For example, in the case where the generator 90 is about 50 kg and the camera 100 is about 100 g, the change in power density would be about 0.2%. The small size allows for in-situ integration into the generator 90 without a significant impact on size or weight, which is particularly advantageous in power systems environments (such as the turbine engine 10). Figure 1 The power density of the generator 90 is critical in a power system environment. Furthermore, the small size of the camera 100 allows it to be integrated into the generator without altering or affecting the component's power density. Therefore, such a small camera 100 allows for real-time, in-situ health monitoring of the generator 90 with negligible impact on the generator 90's size and weight, and also negligible impact on power density.

[0049] The second sensor is configured as a partial discharge (PD) sensor 102, which is attached to the housing 92 at a second end 96 and positioned to image the interior of the generator 90. In a non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be a PCB antenna, a capacitive sensor, an RTD, a thermocouple, or an inductive sensor. In a non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be located within a shielded structure (such as the housing of the motor 120, or the housing 92 of the generator). In a non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be located within or within the motor 120 or its housing, or may be an embedded antenna. In another non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be located outside the motor 120 or its housing, such as in the case where the PD sensor 102 is positioned across a radio frequency current transformer (RFCT) connected to a machine winding within the generator 90. In yet another non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be located in or along the power system, or located on, at, near, or adjacent to a component of the power system. In an example where there is continuous electromagnetic interference shielding, the PD sensor 102 should be positioned inside such shielding to allow measurement of the motor 120. The PD sensor 102 can generate a signal representing the occurrence of partial discharge within the motor 120.

[0050] Additionally, although only the first and second sensors are illustrated, any number of cameras are contemplated. Furthermore, while each of the camera 100 and PD sensor 102 is positioned on the housing 92 at the second end 96, it should be appreciated that any positioning on, around, within, or at the motor 120 is contemplated. For example, the PD sensor 102 may be bonded to or located at local circuitry, such as via inductive or capacitive coupling, while the camera 100 is located on the second end 96 of the housing 92. It should be understood that the specific positioning and arrangement of the camera 100 and PD sensor 102 may be based on a specific motor 120 or power system 12 (…). Figure 2The infrared sensor used for camera 100 may be advantageous relative to other sensors in a generator environment. For example, an infrared sensor will have a faster system response than a thermocouple and is better suited to the harsh environment of generator 90 because it can be protected or isolated from the environment it measures. An ultraviolet sensor can be used to detect corona discharge or other partial discharges. PD sensor 102 is better suited to determining the health of such components by determining the presence of partial electrical discharges emitted by electrical components of the power system or motor, such as rotor and stator windings, semiconductors, capacitors, or other electrical or electronic components. Additional alternative sensors are typically larger or heavier and are unsuitable for the motor environment within a turbine engine, or are less reliable or less accurate. In a non-limiting example, only the first sensor of camera 100 may be used, and it is not necessary to include a second sensor or PD sensor 102, or vice versa.

[0051] Electric and hybrid electric aircraft and vehicles are increasingly impacted by the criticality, reliability, and asset value of their electric power systems. Therefore, monitoring the health of electric power systems or motors and ensuring accurate measurements to allow for accurate monitoring is becoming increasingly important. This disclosure provides a method for monitoring the health of motors or electric power systems used in turbine engines (such as…). Figure 1 Turbo engine 10 Figure 2 The electric power system is 12 or Figure 3 Methods and equipment for generating generators (90).

[0052] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the generator 90 taken along line IV-IV shows the housing 92 surrounding the generator interior 98. An accessory gearbox 104 is coupled to the generator 90 at a first end 94; for example, the accessory gearbox 104 may be... Figure 1 AGB 14.

[0053] The generator 90 includes a rotatable shaft 122 coupled to a generator rotor 124. A generator stator 126 is spaced apart from the generator rotor 124. The generator stator 126 may have a set of windings to generate current when the generator rotor 124 rotates within the generator stator 126. A set of bearings 128 is positioned between the rotatable shaft 122 and a housing 92 to allow the rotatable shaft 122 to rotate within the housing 92. When the rotatable shaft 122 is driven to rotate by an accessory gearbox 104, the generator 90 generates AC electrical power. It should be understood that the motor 120 does not need to be a generator and can be any electrical power system component or motor, including but not limited to generators, motors, starters, or components thereof or other electrical components. In the additional non-limiting example, while the motor 120 is represented as a generator for a turbine environment, it is not required to be a turbine-specific motor.

[0054] A camera 100 and a PD sensor 102 are mounted to the generator 90 at the second end 96, allowing the camera 100 to observe the generator interior 98, as well as the generator rotor 124 and generator stator 126. The PD sensor 102, acting as both an electrical and electromagnetic sensor, is positioned to detect partial discharges, allowing it to output a signal corresponding to the occurrence of a partial discharge within the generator 90. The PD sensor 102, acting as a corona-type sensor or an ultraviolet sensor, can be positioned to image or observe the generator 90. Although only a single camera 100 and a single PD sensor 102 are shown, it should be appreciated that multiple sensors, such as multiple cameras 100, multiple PD sensors 102, or an array thereof, can be utilized. In a non-limiting example, an array of multiple sensors can be arranged in a ring at the second end 96. Multiple sensors allow for measurement of the generator 90 as a whole, which is useful in determining the health of the entire motor 120 or in preparing a map (such as a thermal map) of the entire motor 120. Oil or lubricant is supplied to the interior 98 of the generator to minimize friction generated within the generator 90 during operation and to provide cooling to dissipate the heat generated by the generator 90. During imaging of the generator 90 by the camera 100, oil or other contaminants may obstruct observation of the interior 98 of the generator.

[0055] The use of generator 90 in a turbine engine environment involves high system performance and high power density to ensure consistent operation in the hot and harsh conditions of a turbine engine. Despite this environment, camera 100 provides consistent measurements of generator 90. Camera 100 and PD sensor 102 can be operatively and communicatively coupled to controller 140, which has processor 142 and memory 144. Controller 140 can receive and interpret signals from camera 100 indicative of measurements of generator 90. More specifically, if camera 100 is an infrared sensor, controller 140 can receive signals generated by the infrared sensor to provide a thermal image, thermogram, or other thermal representation of the generator interior 98. In another non-limiting example, camera 100 can be an ultraviolet sensor. Camera 100 provides non-invasive in-situ monitoring of generator 90 or motor 120, which can be performed in real time. Display 146 can be communicatively coupled to controller 140 to display information received or analyzed using controller 140. In a non-limiting example, display 146 may be a display in the cockpit of an aircraft on which generator 90 is located. In another non-limiting example, display 146 may be a display at a remote location (such as air traffic control) or a display at a remote location monitoring the health of generator 90 or motor 120.

[0056] Camera 100 and PD sensor 102 allow for temperature imaging of the generator interior 98, thereby allowing controller 140 to monitor the occurrence of partial discharges or changes in the temperature of generator 90 over time. More specifically, camera 100 can monitor the temperature of generator 90, including generator rotor 124 and generator stator 126, to determine temperature trends across generator rotor 124 and generator stator 126 under different load conditions for generator 90, and to determine the magnitude of temperature changes. Similarly, PD sensor 102 can monitor any electrical discharges across different load conditions. Load conditions may include, but are not limited to, electrical loads, engine operating conditions, flight conditions, rotational speed, or operating environment. Engine operating conditions may include, but are not limited to, starting, idling, taxiing, takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing. In a non-limiting example, flight conditions may include flight path, altitude, geographic location, air temperature, air pressure, or weather. Rotational speed may be the rotational speed of rotating elements of motor 120, such as the rotational speed of generator rotor 124. In a non-limiting example, the operating environment may include geographic location or air quality, such as a sandy or dusty environment. Such different load conditions can cause electrical discharges from motor 120 that would not occur under alternative load conditions. Similarly, different load conditions can alter the temperature of motor 120, or, for example, change the rotational speed by requiring a larger or smaller current to provide sufficient supply to meet electrical demands, ambient temperature or pressure, engine conditions (when they relate to electrical demands), or environmental conditions. It can be beneficial to consider or extrapolate temperature or electrical discharge measurements across various load conditions in order to predict when a threshold may be exceeded under such different operating conditions, while a similar threshold would not be exceeded under alternative operating conditions. In a non-limiting example, measurements taken by camera 100 and PD sensor 102 can be correlated with such load conditions to determine or predict system health for generator 90 under different load conditions. For example, when the measured surface temperature is determined by the controller 140 to be close to a certain threshold (which may be exceeded when the load conditions are changed), the controller 140 may then indicate or provide a message that such a threshold is expected to be met or exceeded, take action to avoid such load conditions, schedule or indicate the required maintenance, or even update or change the load conditions (if available) to reduce the measured surface temperature below the threshold, thereby maintaining the system health of the generator 90 or motor 120, or until maintenance is available.

[0057] Furthermore, measurements taken by camera 100 and PD sensor 102 can identify transient events and correlate the measured values ​​with such events (such as startup or shutdown processes). This can be considered by controller 140 to assess the health of the system during such transient events or in relation to the overall health of the system. For example, localized hotspots generated during startup can be identified as potential health conditions, which can be used to indicate the need for inspection or maintenance.

[0058] Additionally, any such measurements taken by camera 100 and PD sensor 102 can be recorded by controller 140 or stored in memory such as memory 144 to assess system health over time. For example, an identified local hotspot may initially not have a temperature exceeding a certain threshold, but during the operating cycle of generator 90, the temperature may rise over time until it exceeds such a threshold, which can be based on such a rate of increase. Measurements of temperature changes over time can be used to identify when such a threshold is met or exceeded based on the rate of increase. Furthermore, measurements over time can be used to predict how the temperature will change over time, thereby further predicting when a specific threshold will be met or exceeded. Thus, such periodic measurements can be used to predict system health over time and anticipate it before any maintenance or potential problems occur. In this way, camera 100 and PD sensor 102 can be used for predictive health monitoring of motor 120, which can be used to improve system health monitoring and overall health.

[0059] Furthermore, camera 100 can generate detailed temperature distribution maps or thermal maps, which can be used for design verification and optimization, as well as facilitating product inspection. More specifically, such thermal maps can be compared with design verification and optimization measurements to determine the physical consequences of motor 120 operation. Such thermal maps can be further correlated with measurements taken via PD sensor 102 to provide design verification and optimization (when related to electrical discharge).

[0060] In another non-limiting example, camera 100, acting as an infrared sensor, can determine changes in the surface emissivity of a measured component (such as generator rotor 124). Changes in surface emissivity can be correlated with the health of the insulation system over time and can be used to determine the health of the insulation system over time. More specifically, an increase in surface emissivity can indicate deterioration of the insulation system, which can be measured using an infrared sensor (such as camera 100). In a non-limiting example, the measured surface emissivity can be used to determine the health of the windings or electrical insulation of motor 120.

[0061] refer to Figure 5 The camera 100 includes: a camera housing 202 having a body 204 having a generally cylindrical shape; and a mounting member 206 for coupling the camera 100 to a generator 90. Figure 3While the cylindrical shape of the body 204 is shown and described herein, any shape or geometry is contemplated for the camera 100, camera housing 202, and body 204. The camera 100 includes an imaging end 208 having an end wall 210. The body 204 extends beyond the end wall 210 to define a cavity 212 at the imaging end 208. The cavity 212 is defined between the inner surface 214 of the body 204 and the end wall 210. A lens 220 is disposed in the end wall 210 and is available for observation. Figure 3 The generator 90 was imaged.

[0062] Figure 6 Show Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of camera 100 taken along line VI-VI. Body 204 surrounds camera interior 222 and includes sensor 224 to capture electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared radiation, focused by lens 220. Air passage 226 may be defined within camera interior 222, and air supply (A) may be provided to air passage 226.

[0063] An air circuit 230 may extend within the end wall 210. The air circuit 230 includes an inlet passage 232 directly adjacent to the camera interior 222 and receiving an air supply (A). The inlet passage 232 terminates at an end surface 234. A first curtain passage 236 extends through the end wall 210 and fluidly couples the inlet passage 232 to an end wall aperture 238. The end wall aperture 238 extends through the end wall 210, thereby providing the lens 220 with visual access to the cavity 212. A second curtain passage 240 extends through the end wall 210. The second curtain passage 240 extends between the end wall aperture 238 and the exhaust outlet 242.

[0064] The first curtain passage 236 may be arranged at a first angle 250 relative to the lens surface 244 of the lens 220. While it should be appreciated that the lens surface 244 may be bent to focus electromagnetic waves onto the sensor 224, the first angle 250 may be defined relative to a generally planar surface (such as a plane parallel to the end wall 210). Such a generally planar surface may be projected onto the lens surface 244 for the purpose of defining the first angle 250. In a non-limiting example, the first angle 250 may be greater than or equal to zero degrees (0°) and less than or equal to 45 degrees (45°). A second angle 252 may be defined with respect to the second curtain passage 240 and may similarly be defined relative to the projection of the lens surface 244 or the plane parallel to the end wall 210. In a non-limiting example, the second angle 252 may be the same as the first angle 250, greater than or equal to zero degrees (0°) and less than or equal to 45 degrees (45°), or may be dissimilar to the first angle 250, or a combination thereof. Air circuit 230 may be defined between inlet passage 232, first curtain passage 236, end wall orifice 238, and second curtain passage 240, wherein air circuit 230 discharges at outlet 242. Air circuit 230 provides a scraping force parallel to lens surface 244 for removing oil, oil mist, or other contaminants, and a vertical force for discharging oil and other contaminants before they reach lens 220.

[0065] A set of channels 260 is disposed in the inner surface 214 and may be arranged as annular channels extending into the inner surface 214. A set of outlets 262 may extend through the body 204 from one of the channels 260a. In a non-limiting example, the set of outlets 262 may be disposed in the channel 260a furthest from the end wall 210. The set of outlets 262 may be arranged as two outlets disposed at the top and bottom of the body 204, wherein the top is defined by positioning relative to the inlet passage 232 and the bottom is defined by positioning relative to the outlet 242. A drainage channel 264 is formed in the inner surface 214 adjacent to the second curtain passage 240. A drainage passage 266 extends through the end wall 210 to fluidly connect the drainage channel 264 to the second curtain passage 240 upstream of the outlet 242 and downstream of the end wall orifice 238 relative to the flow direction along the air circuit 230.

[0066] Brief Reference Figure 5 It can be appreciated that the second curtain path 240 can be configured as a group of multiple discrete paths, shown as four second curtain paths 240. Similarly, refer again... Figure 6 It is conceivable that the first curtain path 236 can be formed as a set of multiple discrete paths. In such an example, the number of multiple paths defining the first curtain path 236 can be the same as the number of multiple paths defining the second curtain path 240, and in a non-limiting example, such paths can be aligned.

[0067] During operation, camera 100 can be used to monitor generator 90 ( Figure 3 The internal imaging of the generator 90 involves sensor 224 receiving electromagnetic radiation focused through lens 220. The interior of the generator 90 may include a volume of oil or lubricant, as well as other contaminants such as salt or other debris, which may obstruct observation through lens 220.

[0068] Air circuit 230 provides an air curtain across lens 220 to maintain unobstructed view of camera 100. Air supply (A) may serve as a cooling air supply (such as from turbine engine 10). Figure 1 The vent air from the compressor section is supplied to the camera interior 222, or from the motor 120, as with the generator 90. Figure 3 The cooling fluid is supplied together. An air supply (A) is delivered from inside the camera 222 to the inlet passage 232, and then from the inlet passage 232 to the first curtain passage 236. The air supply (A) impacts on the end surface 234 and provides cooling to the end wall 210 by the impact cooling at the end surface 234. The air supply (A) is delivered across the lens 220 through the end wall orifice 238. A first angle 250 orients the air supply (A) toward the lens 220 such that the air supply (A) partially impacts the lens 220 and is delivered along the lens 220 toward the second curtain passage 240. The air supply (A) impacting the lens 220 and being delivered along the lens 220 removes oil or other contaminants by the force provided by the air supply (A) and moves such oil or other contaminants toward and into the second curtain passage 240. The oil or other contaminants are then discharged from the camera 100 through the exhaust outlet 242.

[0069] Additionally, the set of channels 260 provides for capturing at least a portion of the oil or contaminants transported toward the lens 220. The shape of the set of channels 260 allows oil or other contaminants to move into the set of channels 260 and then be transported through the set of channels 260 in an annular shape around the camera housing 202, rather than along the inner surface 214 toward the end wall 210 and ultimately toward the lens 220. The oil or contaminants are transported along the set of channels 260 toward a drainage channel, where they can be drained or discharged through a drainage path 266 to the second curtain passage 240 and discharged through a discharge outlet 242, or discharged through one or more of the set of outlets 262 within the drainage channel 264.

[0070] Therefore, the camera 100, as described herein, provides improved imaging of the motor 120, particularly in harsh electrical environments, such as those containing oil or other contaminants. An air curtain provided from the air circuit 230 along the lens 220 provides removal and mitigation of oil or other contaminant buildup along the lens 220, which allows for such improved imaging in such harsh environments.

[0071] In a non-limiting example, camera 100 may be capable of monitoring electrical power system 12 or motor 120 (such as generator 90). Figure 3 An infrared camera 100 is used to monitor the temperature of the power system 12 or motor 120. Monitoring the temperature of the power system 12 or motor 120 allows for the detection of anomalies where the measured temperature is outside the expected range or threshold. Camera 100 allows for non-invasive in-situ imaging of the power system 12 or motor 120, providing monitoring with greater accuracy and reliability compared to existing systems, thus allowing for greater reliability and accuracy in detecting electrical, thermal, or mechanical faults. Furthermore, such improved monitoring can be used to predict or otherwise estimate when such electrical, thermal, or mechanical faults will occur, allowing for preventative or remedial actions prior to such faults. In non-limiting examples, such faults may include open circuits, short circuits, thermal runaway, eccentricity, or bearing failure.

[0072] Additionally, air circuit 230 provides cooling for camera 100. Air supply (A) through air circuit 230 provides heat transfer away from camera 100, thereby cooling camera 100. Air supply (A) provides cooling to end wall 210 by impact against end surface 234. In this way, camera 100 is well-suited for thermal environments, such as those in electrical power system 12 (… Figure 2 ), generator 90 ( Figure 3 ) or turbocharged engine 10 ( Figure 1 The thermal environment within the sensor 224. In addition, the air supply (A) delivered within the air passage 226 impacts the sensor 224, thereby cooling the sensor 224.

[0073] In alternative, non-limiting examples, it is envisioned that the lens 220 could be cleaned using mechanical features (such as mechanical scrapers) or other methods (including, but not limited to, magnetohydrodynamics).

[0074] refer to Figure 7 The flowchart depicts the electric power system (such as...) Figure 2 The power system 12) or motor (such as Figure 3 Method 300 for imaging (e.g., motor 120). Method 300 includes using a camera (e.g., motor 120) at 302. Figures 5 to 6The camera 100 images the electrical power system 12 or the motor 120 (such as a turbine engine or generator). In a non-limiting example, the camera 100 may be coupled to the generator 90 and may be in situ to allow continuous measurement of the electrical power system 12 or the motor 120 even during operation. Such an environment may be harsh, including oil or other contaminants that could obstruct the view of the camera 100.

[0075] At 304, method 300 may include an air circuit (such as) along the interior of camera 100. Figure 6 Air supply (A) is delivered via air circuit 230. At 306, delivering air supply (A) may further include cleaning camera 100 using air supply (A). For example, air circuit 230 delivers air supply (A) along lens 220 to remove oil or contaminants from lens 220, thereby cleaning camera 100. Delivering air supply (A) along camera 100 may further include impacting air supply (A) against lens 220, such as impacting at an angle greater than or equal to zero degrees (0°) and less than or equal to 45 degrees (45°). Delivering air supply (A) along air circuit may further include impacting air supply (A) against end surfaces (such as... Figure 6 Impact on the end surface 234).

[0076] At 308, the air supply (A) may further include using the air supply (A) to cool the camera 100. For example, the air circuit 230 uses the air supply (A) to cool the end wall 210. Figure 6 Additionally, the cooling camera 100 may further include causing the air supply (A) to impact the end wall 210, such that the air supply (A) impacts the end wall 210. Figure 6 On the end surface 234 inside the end wall 210. Although as Figure 7 The method 300 depicted in the figure shows cleaning the camera 100 at 306 and cooling the camera 100 at 308 as alternative paths, but it should be understood that delivering an air supply (A) along the air circuit 230 at 304 may include both cleaning the camera 100 (at 306) and cooling the camera 100 (at 308).

[0077] At 310, method 300 may further include discharging oil or contaminants from camera 100 using air circuit 230. For example, oil or contaminants may be discharged from lens 220 to second curtain passage 240, and may also be discharged from air circuit 230 through discharge outlet 242. Alternatively or additionally, oil or contaminants may be discharged from cavity 212. For example, a portion of the oil or contaminants may be retained in the set of channels 260 and may be discharged from cavity 212 through the set of outlets 262, drainage channel 264, or both.

[0078] In-situ monitoring of the power system 12 or motor 120 is provided for the benefits of the camera 100 and method 300 as described herein. Such in-situ monitoring is non-invasive. The camera 100 is permitted to measure the power system 12 or motor 120 and prevent, mitigate, or identify other electrical problems, such as electrical, thermal, or mechanical failures. More specifically, the air circuit 230 provides cooling for the camera 100 to allow use in the hot environment of the turbine engine 10, power system 12, or motor 120. Additionally, the air circuit 230 provides an air curtain across the lens 220 to clean and remove oil or other contaminants or debris from the lens 220, thereby allowing in-situ imaging in hot and dirty environments. Furthermore, passive features (such as the set of channels 260, the set of outlets 262, the drainage channel 264, and the drainage path 266) provide mitigation or prevention of oil or other contaminants being transported to the lens 220 and to drain such oil or contaminants away from the camera 100. These features make the camera 100 ideal for use in harsh and oily environments such as generator 90 or other electrical power systems 12 or motor 120.

[0079] Figure 8 This illustrates the depiction of the monitoring electrical power system (such as...) Figure 2 The flowchart describes a method 400 for maintaining the health of the power system 12. Method 400 can be performed or completed in real time, such as during the use of the power system 12, or after the use of the power system 12 has ended or during idling or non-operating conditions while the power system 12 is still on or running.

[0080] At 402, method 400 may include an operating power system, such as Figure 2 The power system 12, or any electrical component, element, or feature of the power system 12. For example, a component of the power system 12 may be a generator 90 ( Figure 3 )or Figure 4 The generator rotor 124 or generator stator 126 can be imaged by a camera 100 and a PD sensor 102 coupled to the generator 90. In a non-limiting example, in the power system 12, the converter 52 ( Figure 2 In the case of power system 12, components may include semiconductors or capacitors within converter 52.

[0081] At 404, method 400 may include utilizing a PD sensor (such as...) Figure 3 The PD sensor 102 detects partial discharges in the power system 12. The PD sensor 102 can detect any electrical discharge emitted from the power system 12 and generate a signal representing such an emission. This signal can be provided from the PD sensor 102 to a controller, such as... Figure 4The controller 140. In a non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be a PCB antenna, an RTD sensor, a thermocouple, a capacitive sensor, or an inductive sensor. In a non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 may be positioned within a shielding structure, such as the housing of the motor of the power system 12 (e.g., Figure 3 The shielding structure is located within the housing 92 of the motor 120. In another non-limiting example, such a shielding structure can be a shielding insulation within the power system 12, and the PD sensor 102 can detect potential degradation of the electrical insulation by detecting partial discharge. In an additional non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 can be configured to detect arcing or corona discharge within the power system 12. In another non-limiting example, the PD sensor 102 can be used to perform multiple measurements over time to define the trend or magnitude of the power discharge measurement over time.

[0082] At 406, method 400 may include utilizing a camera (such as...) Figure 4 A camera 100, such as an infrared sensor or an ultraviolet sensor, images the power system 12. When the camera 100 is an infrared sensor or an ultraviolet sensor, method 400 may include imaging the power system 12 using the infrared sensor or ultraviolet sensor. Such a camera 100 can be positioned in situ on the power system 12 and is non-invasive. Furthermore, such a camera can provide a thermal map of a region of the power system 12 (rather than just a measurement point), thereby reducing or mitigating the chance of missing excessively high temperatures within the power system 12. The camera 100 can generate a signal representing the temperature of the power system 12, its region, or its components. Such a signal can be provided from the camera 100 to the controller 140. Figure 4 In a non-limiting example, camera 100 can measure the same location, area, or element of the power system 12 as PD sensor 102. In a non-limiting example, imaging using camera 100 can be used to generate a thermal map of a region of the power system 12. In yet another non-limiting example, camera 100 can be used to measure the temperature of the power system 12 over time. Such a measurement can be used to determine the change in temperature over time. In one example, such a change can be correlated with the load conditions of the turbine engine 10 or the power system 12. Furthermore, multiple measurements can be used to determine the trend of temperature over time or the magnitude of the temperature change. In yet another non-limiting example, camera 100 can be used to determine the surface emissivity of the power system 12 or a portion thereof. Comparing the surface emissivity with a previous measurement or a threshold surface emissivity via controller 140 can be used to determine the aging and health of the electrical insulation system (EIS) for the power system 12. The change in surface emissivity over time can indicate the aging of the insulation for the power system 12, which can represent the health of the power system 12.

[0083] In a non-limiting example, camera 100 and PD sensor 102 may be distributed to measure different regions or portions of the electrical power system 12. For example, camera 100 may measure a first region or component of the electrical power system 12 (such as...). Figure 2 The generator 90) is thermally imaged, and the PD sensor 102 can measure the second region or component of the power system 12 (such as...). Figure 2 (Converter 52 or inverter 54). Such a distributed arrangement can provide a more comprehensive indication of the health of the power system 12. Common arrangements (such as where camera 100 and PD sensor 102 are arranged in the same area or component) can provide the fidelity for determining camera 100 or PD sensor 102, as described at 414.

[0084] At 408, method 400 may include comparing a measured partial discharge detected by PD sensor 102 with a partial discharge threshold. For example, such a comparison may be performed using controller 140. In a non-limiting example, the partial discharge threshold may be any detected partial discharge such that any partial discharge detected by PD sensor 102 meets or exceeds the partial discharge threshold. In another non-limiting example, it is envisioned that at least a certain amount of partial discharge is allowed within motor 120 without meeting or exceeding the partial discharge threshold. When the partial discharge is measured as a trend of partial discharge over time and a change in value over time, the measured value may be extrapolated to determine when the partial discharge will exceed the partial discharge threshold.

[0085] At 410, method 400 may include comparing an image detected by camera 100 with a threshold representation, such as comparing a measured thermal image, as imaged by camera 100, with a threshold thermal image stored in memory 144. For example, if camera 100 is an infrared camera, method 400 at 410 may include comparing the image with a threshold infrared thermal image. If camera 100 is an ultraviolet camera, method 400 at 410 may include comparing the image with an ultraviolet light intensity threshold. Such a threshold representation may be a thermal image, or other representation of the power system 12 or a portion or component thereof, which may represent, for example, the temperature at a specific location of the power system 12, which may be compared with a similar location imaged by camera 100. For example, such a comparison may be made using controller 140. In a non-limiting example, the comparison of the image with the threshold representation may be used to determine an open circuit, short circuit, thermal runaway, eccentricity, or bearing failure. The image may be used to identify both excessively high temperatures and their specific location or source. Such a location or source can be helpful in identifying and recognizing the health problems of specific components of the power system 12 associated with the location or source of excessively high temperatures on a heat map. In an example where the temperature is set as a temperature trend, such a trend, the magnitude of temperature change, or both can be extrapolated over time to determine when such a measured temperature will exceed a temperature threshold.

[0086] At 412, method 400 may include determining the health of the power system 12. Determining health may be based on whether a partial discharge threshold or temperature threshold has been exceeded, as determined by controller 140 at 408 or 410. Additionally, determining the health of the power system 12 may include determining the health of specific regions or components of the power system 12. For example, if PD sensor 102 or camera 100 determines that a value exceeds a relevant threshold, PD sensor 102 or camera 100 may be used to determine the location or source of the threshold being met or exceeded, and be able to identify the component, part, or region of the power system 12 where such a threshold meeting or exceeding is occurring. Such location or source information is useful in determining which parts or components of the power system 12 are experiencing temperature or discharge exceeding a specified threshold, which provides tailored maintenance and inspection compared to an inspection or maintenance of the entire power system 12. In a non-limiting example, such determination of the health of the power system 12 may further include at least one of spectral analysis, wavelet analysis, deep learning, machine learning, or combinations thereof. More specifically, such analysis or learning can be used to determine whether or when a specific threshold is met or exceeded, thereby allowing a healthy output representing the power system 12 based on such analysis or learning. Such analysis or learning can be performed by, for example, controller 140 or other processors or controllers that receive measurements of the power system 12.

[0087] At 414, method 400 may include using camera 100 to determine the fidelity of PD sensor 102. More specifically, in cases where an area of ​​increased partial discharge appears within the power system 12, a corresponding increase in heat is also expected to appear at or near the same location within the power system 12. The area where partial discharge is detected or not detected may be compared with the same area captured by camera 100 to determine whether a temperature increase is also detected or not, in order to determine whether the measurements from PD sensor 102 are consistent with or otherwise consistent with the measurements from camera 100. In cases of such inconsistency, the health or fidelity of PD sensor 102 may be included as part of the determination of the health of power system 12.

[0088] At 416, method 400 may include determining the location or source of a partial discharge. The PD sensor 102 or a controller 140 that receives measurements from the PD sensor 102 may determine the location or source of such a partial discharge occurring within the power system 12. The controller 140 may include a map or other layout of the power system 12, such as stored in memory 144. Figure 4The location of such partial discharge can be determined by comparing or correlating the position of the map or other layout with the position on the power system 12 via the controller 140, thereby allowing the controller 140 to determine which part or which element of the power system 12 is experiencing such a partial discharge. Such a location or source can also be confirmed by comparing it with the temperature measured by the camera 100 at the same location on the power system 12. If the temperature measured by the camera 100 is not correlated with the measured value of the partial discharge, it can be an indication of a decline in the health of the PD sensor 102, similar to determining the fidelity of the PD sensor 102 as discussed at 414.

[0089] At 418, method 400 may include the health of the output power system 12. Such an output may be displayed on a monitor (e.g., Figure 4 The health of the power system 12 is displayed on the display (146). For example, such output could be an indication of good health, where no threshold is exceeded. Other indications could be that one or more thresholds have been exceeded, or specific information related to partial discharge or temperature of the power system 12. Other information that can be displayed includes, but is not limited to, the need for maintenance or inspection, or which parts of the power system 12 are experiencing partial discharge or temperature exceeding such thresholds. Additionally, the fidelity of the PD sensor 102 (such as the fidelity determined at 414) can be included as part of the output of the health of the power system 12. For example, such output could be an indication of good fidelity, or an inconsistency between partial discharge measurements and temperature measurements, indicating that the health of the PD sensor 102 may require maintenance or inspection.

[0090] At 420, method 400 may include repeating method 400 from 404 to 410. Such repetition can be used to determine multiple partial discharges and multiple temperatures over time in order to define trends in partial discharges and temperatures over time, or magnitudes of such changes over time, or both. For example, each time PD sensor 102 takes a measurement, each time camera 100 takes a measurement, or both, those measurements can be stored and recorded for future use and historical comparisons, such as in Figure 4 The measurements are stored in memory 144. This set of measurements can be used to define the trends of partial discharge and temperature over time in the electrical power system 12, as well as the magnitudes of changes in partial discharge and temperature.

[0091] At 422, method 400 may include determining when one or both of a partial discharge threshold or a temperature threshold will be exceeded based on a trend, its magnitude, or both. For example, in cases where such a trend indicates that partial discharge or temperature increases over time, such increase and its magnitude may be extrapolated to predict when a specific partial discharge threshold or temperature threshold will be met or exceeded. Inspections or maintenance may be scheduled before such predicted thresholds are met or exceeded to maintain good health for the power system 12. In this way, method 400 provides predictive health monitoring for the power system 12.

[0092] At 424, method 400 may include PD sensors 102 configured as a plurality of PD sensors, and method 400 includes comparing a first signal from a first PD sensor with a second signal from a second PD sensor. For example, the plurality of PD sensors 102 may be used in measuring the power system 12 and may overlap in the measurement area of ​​the power system 12, or may be arranged as the same component for measuring the power system 12. In one example, the power system 12 or a portion thereof may be measured by at least two PD sensors 102. A signal from a first PD sensor that has detected partial discharge may be compared with a signal from a second PD sensor that overlaps in the measurement area with the first PD sensor that detected partial discharge. A signal from the second PD sensor may be compared with a signal from the first PD sensor to confirm the measurement and determine the health of either the first or second PD sensor, which should have a similar signal confirming the detected partial discharge. Inconsistency between the signals from the first and second PD sensors may indicate that the health of one of the PD sensors has deteriorated and may require maintenance or inspection. In addition, multiple PD sensors enable the complete mapping of any partial discharges occurring within the power system 12. For example, this can be used to determine the location or source of the partial discharge, or to help determine which side of the power cable the PD is coming from.

[0093] The method described in this article has a 400 permissible power system (e.g.) Figure 2In-situ measurements of both electrical discharge and temperature of the power system 120 allow for real-time monitoring of the health of the motor 120. The distribution of multiple sensors allows for coverage of certain components of the power system 120, and the use of multiple sensors to filter or block adverse signals verifies or confirms measurements taken by other sensors. Serious electrical conditions such as arcing or corona can be prevented by detecting potential degradation of electrical insulation and requiring maintenance or inspection after such degradation is detected but before arcing or corona occurs. Additionally, in a non-limiting example, such in-situ monitoring can monitor the health of the power system by measuring the electrical, thermal, and mechanical health of the power system 120 by detecting events such as open circuits, short circuits, thermal runaway, eccentricity, or bearing failure. Multiple cameras 100 can be used to determine a thermal map of the power system 120, which, by comparison with the thermal map, can be used to monitor the health of specific components or areas of the power system 120. Furthermore, an infrared camera (such as camera 100) can be used to determine the surface emissivity of the power system 120 or portions thereof. Changes in surface emissivity (such as those caused by discoloration) can be used to determine the health of the power system 12, such as in the event of oxidative degradation of electrical insulation. Real-time measurements by camera 100 and PD sensor 102 allow for real-time analysis, including spectral analysis, wavelet analysis, deep learning, machine learning, or combinations thereof. Such analysis provides comprehensive health monitoring of the power system 12, which can be performed in real time. This comprehensive health monitoring provides monitoring of all or virtually all electrical, thermal, and mechanical faults within the power system 12. Furthermore, thermal monitoring (such as thermal tomography or thermal mapping) can be used to measure the fidelity of the PD sensor 102, as well as the location or source of electrical discharge. Further, historical monitoring data (such as measurements by camera 100 and PD sensor 102) can be stored to allow for predictive health management, such as predicting when a specific threshold will be exceeded based on changes in measured values ​​over time. Such predictive health management can be further used to predict the remaining usable life of the power system 12 or its components, taking into account specific load conditions.

[0094] The benefits of the methods and systems described herein include improved health monitoring and reporting for the electrical power system 12 used in the turbine engine 10. Turbine engine environments can have high power demands, and such environments can be harsh, subject to oily or contaminated conditions, and subjected to a wide range of temperature variations before, during, and after operation. The methods and systems described herein utilize a monitoring system that combines real-time partial discharge detection and thermal tomography.

[0095] Faults in motors are typically associated with stator insulation and bearing failure events, which can account for up to 80% to 90% of all incidents. In-situ thermal tomography can be used to measure temperatures at the rotor, stator, and bearings. When temperatures approach a threshold for the power coefficient 12, the method and system can provide indications that the threshold has been exceeded, will be exceeded in the future, or is about to be met or exceeded, and can indicate or schedule maintenance and inspection of the rotor, stator, or bearings before a fault occurs. Specific thresholds can be provided to alert the need for maintenance or inspection before a fault occurs; or values ​​can be extrapolated over time to predict when a fault may occur, thus allowing maintenance or inspection actions to be performed before such an event is reached.

[0096] Semiconductors and capacitors are among the least reliable electrical components in power converters. The PD sensor 102 allows for the measurement of such electrical components in the power system by detecting partial discharges (where component degradation can occur, typically or generally associated with such partial discharges). The PD sensor 102 allows for the identification of when such partial discharges begin to occur, providing health monitoring of such components before other measurement systems, such as a camera 100 measuring temperature changes, can readily detect the health condition, where such temperature changes may initially be small and insufficient to reach a set threshold of the camera 100.

[0097] In this way, the combination of camera 100 and PD sensor 102 enables a comprehensive health monitoring system for the power system 12, capable of monitoring areas where malfunctions may occur, as well as smaller or more vulnerable areas of the power system 12, such as semiconductors and capacitors, whose health can be more easily identified by detecting partial discharge. Therefore, the system and method provide comprehensive health monitoring of the power system 12 in real time by monitoring temperature and partial discharge.

[0098] Such health monitoring can improve overall flight performance, as well as the performance of the aircraft, turbine engines, and other related and interconnected components. Furthermore, such monitoring allows for improved maintenance and inspection, such as targeting specific areas of the electrical power system 12, or indicating when maintenance or inspection is due. In this way, maintenance and inspection costs can be minimized by indicating when such maintenance or inspection is needed and reducing physical inspections of the electrical power system 12 required by inspectors, as inspections can be provided via measurements taken by the PD sensor 102 and camera 100. Additionally, the lifespan of the power system and electrical power system can be extended, and downtime of the aircraft or turbine engines can be reduced.

[0099] refer to Figure 9 The flowchart depicts the process of determining the electric power system or motor (such as...) for a turbine engine. Figure 1 Turbo engine 10 Figure 2 The electric power system is 12 or Figures 3 to 4 Method 500 for ensuring the health of a generator 90 or motor 120 will be described with respect to a rotating motor. At 502, method 500 may include rotating the motor 120. For example, rotating the motor 120 may include making... Figure 4 The generator rotor 124 rotates to generate current. In a non-limiting example, aspects of method 500 may utilize a controller (such as...) Figure 4 The controller 140 is used to implement this.

[0100] At point 504, the rotation of the motor 120 can be slowed down during the spin deceleration process until rotation finally stops at the end of the spin deceleration process. For example, when the demand for current supply stops, the rotation of the generator rotor 124 can stop, thereby initiating the spin deceleration process. The spin deceleration process involves reducing the rotational speed of the generator rotor 124 until rotation stops at the end of the spin deceleration process.

[0101] Sensors (such as those fixed to) Figures 3 to 4 The camera 100 of the generator 90 can be positioned to image the motor 120 and its parts (such as rotating parts, including but not limited to the generator rotor 124). Additionally, the camera 100 can image the non-rotating parts of the motor 120 (such as those shown in the non-limiting example). Figure 4 Imaging of the generator stator 126. It is envisioned that camera 100 can be positioned to image any desired portion of the electrical power system 12 or motor 120, where temperature changes within the motor 120 can be used to determine the health of the motor 120.

[0102] At 506, method 500 may include imaging the motor 120 using camera 100. More specifically, camera 100 may image the generator rotor 124 during a spin deceleration process. At 508, camera 100 may image the generator rotor 124 at the start of the spin deceleration process. Such a start of the spin deceleration process may occur at the initiation of the spin deceleration process or immediately after the initiation of the spin deceleration process, such that the rotational speed of the generator rotor 124 at the point of imaging is less than the rotational speed before the initiation of the spin deceleration process. Such imaging may be used to determine a first rotor temperature. At 510, camera 100 may image the generator rotor 124 at the end of the spin deceleration process. In a non-limiting example, imaging may be performed just before the rotor stops rotating, such as less than 1 second or less than 0.25 seconds before stopping rotation. Such imaging may be used to determine a second rotor temperature. At 512, camera 100 may image the generator rotor 124 after the spin deceleration process, after the generator rotor 124 has stopped rotating. Such imaging may be used to determine a third rotor temperature. This can be done when the generator rotor 124 stops rotating or immediately after the generator rotor 124 stops rotating, such as less than 1 second or less than 0.25 seconds after the rotation stops.

[0103] Imaging the motor 120 does not need to be limited to a first and second measurement to determine the first rotor temperature and the second rotor temperature. In a non-limiting example, multiple measurements can be performed during the spin deceleration process, which can provide more detail in determining the amount of temperature reduction of the rotor during the spin deceleration process. In a non-limiting example, a set of measurements or multiple measurements can be performed periodically during the spin deceleration process.

[0104] At 514, method 500 may include determining the amount of rotor temperature reduction as the difference between a first temperature and a second temperature. The amount of rotor temperature reduction is useful in determining how much the generator rotor 124 is cooled during the spin deceleration process.

[0105] At 516, method 500 may include determining a maximum rotor temperature for generator rotor 124, or determining a maximum temperature for another region or component of motor 120. The maximum rotor temperature may be determined as the sum of a rotor temperature reduction and a third rotor temperature. In this manner, method 500 estimates a temperature change using the temperature difference measured during the spin deceleration process and adds such a value for the temperature change to the temperature measured after the spin deceleration process to determine the maximum temperature for generator rotor 124.

[0106] Camera 100 can be a low-speed camera, such as a low-speed infrared camera. Such a low-speed camera can be advantageous relative to higher-speed cameras, for example, by reducing the overall cost of the system, and is better suited to the harsh conditions of a turbine engine environment. During the rotational operation of the generator rotor 124, the rotational speed may be too fast for the camera 100 (such as a low-speed infrared camera), which can provide an average temperature measurement or a value resulting from the tailing of the temperature data measured by the camera 100 caused by the fast rotational speed. Once rotation has stopped, the camera 100 can image the generator rotor 124 without such tailing. To determine the highest temperature of the generator rotor 124 during rotation or at a specific location of the generator rotor 124 during rotation, the amount of rotor temperature reduction can be added to the temperature value measured after the generator rotor 124 has stopped, in order to determine the highest rotor temperature during rotation or at a specific location, despite such rapid rotation. In this way, an accurate temperature for the generator rotor 124 or a portion thereof can be determined during the rotation of the generator rotor 124.

[0107] At 518, method 500 may further include comparing a maximum rotor temperature or maximum rotating machine temperature with a threshold temperature. Such a threshold temperature may be a maximum temperature value for motor 120, such as a maximum rated operating temperature. The comparison of the maximum rotor temperature with such a maximum rated operating temperature can be used to determine whether the maximum rotor temperature exceeds such a maximum rated temperature, thereby indicating that maintenance or inspection may be required. In another non-limiting example, the threshold temperature may be a temperature range, or may be multiple temperatures. More specifically, a temperature range may be a set of values ​​at which maintenance or inspection of motor 120 can be recommended before reaching a maximum temperature value exceeding the rated operating temperature. Multiple temperatures may be used as threshold temperatures so as to indicate different health conditions for motor 120 once the maximum rotor temperature reaches any of the multiple temperatures, or can be used to indicate the urgency of maintenance or inspection based on which threshold is met.

[0108] At 520, method 500 may further include determining the health of motor 120. The health of motor 120 may be determined based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature with a threshold. For example, if the highest rotor temperature does not exceed the threshold, motor 120 may be considered healthy or in good health. If the highest rotor temperature meets or exceeds any threshold or threshold range, motor 120 may have a health condition that recommends or indicates inspection or maintenance, such as requiring inspection or maintenance.

[0109] At 522, method 500 may further include relating the healthy or peak rotor temperature of motor 120 to load conditions. The load on motor 120 or generator rotor 124 may vary depending on the conditions. For example, different load conditions may include engine operating conditions, flight conditions, rotational speed, or operating environment. These load conditions can affect the temperature of motor 120. Consideration of such load conditions with peak rotor temperatures can be used to predict where different load conditions could cause temperatures to exceed thresholds, which can be used to prevent exceeding the thresholds before they occur, or to provide maintenance or inspection before such thresholds are met or exceeded.

[0110] At 524, method 500 may further include directing the healthy output of motor 120 to, for example, Figure 4The display 146. Output health may include an indication of the health of motor 120, such as good health, where no threshold is met or exceeded. A report may be generated and provided to display 146 if one or more thresholds are met or exceeded. Additionally, the health indication may include an indication of which component or part of motor 120 exceeds a specific threshold. Furthermore, the output may include an indication that inspection or maintenance of motor 120 is required or that such maintenance or inspection may be scheduled. Moreover, the output health of motor 120 may include the health of output PD sensor 102, as determined based on measurements from camera 100. In a non-limiting example, the output health of motor 120 may further include scheduling maintenance or inspection of motor 120.

[0111] At 530, method 500 may include repeating method 500 from 506 to 516. Such repetition can be used to determine multiple maximum rotor temperatures to define the trend of temperature over time, its magnitude, or both. At 532, method 500 may include determining when a threshold will be exceeded based on the trend, magnitude, or both. For example, in cases where such a trend indicates that the temperature is increasing over time, such an increase (e.g., at a determined magnitude) can be extrapolated to predict when a specific temperature threshold will be met or exceeded. Inspections or maintenance can be scheduled before such a predicted threshold is met or exceeded to maintain good health for motor 120. In this way, method 500 can provide predictive health monitoring for motor 120.

[0112] At 534, optionally, method 500 may include cleaning camera 100. For example, from the air circuit within camera 100 (such as...) Figure 6 The air circuit 230 provides an air curtain. The air curtain can span the lens 220 of the camera 100. Figure 6 An air curtain is set up to clear any oil, debris, or contaminants that might otherwise obstruct the view of camera 100. This air curtain allows camera 100 to be used in the harsh and oily environment of generator 90 or motor 120.

[0113] At 536, alternatively, method 500 may include cooling camera 100. For example, an air supply is provided from an air circuit 230 within camera 100. The air supply cools camera 100 to allow operation in high-temperature environments, such as those of turbine engine 10 or generator 90.

[0114] At point 540, method 500 may further include imaging the rotating electric motor with a camera to determine the average temperature of the rotor. For example, the camera may be fixed to... Figures 3 to 4 The camera 100 of the generator 90 is positioned to image the rotor or rotating part of the motor 120, including but not limited to... Figure 4The generator rotor 124. During the rotor's rotational operation, the rotational speed may be too fast for the camera 100 (such as a low-speed infrared camera), which can provide an average temperature measurement or a value resulting from the tail of temperature data measured by the camera 100 caused by the fast rotational speed. Such a tail provides an average rotor temperature for the rotor that can be measured by the camera 100.

[0115] At 542, method 500 may further include correlating the average rotor temperature with load conditions to determine the health of the rotor or motor 120. Different load conditions can result in different temperatures for the rotor, and different rotor temperatures result in different average rotor temperatures. Load conditions may include, but are not limited to, electrical loads, operating conditions (such as engine operating conditions), flight conditions, rotational speed, or operating environment. In a non-limiting example, electrical loads may include power, current, or demand. Engine operating conditions may include, but are not limited to, starting, idling, taxiing, takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing. In a non-limiting example, flight conditions may include flight path, altitude, geographic location, air temperature, air pressure, or weather. In a non-limiting example, rotational speed may be the rotating element of the electric power system 120 or motor 120 (such as generator rotor 124 or turbine engine 10). Figure 1 The rotational speed of the motor 120. In a non-limiting example, the operating environment may include geographical location or air quality, such as a sandy, humid, or dusty environment. Furthermore, active cooling of the motor 120 or its rotor is envisioned during operation. Load conditions may be determined based on the cooling requirements of the motor 120.

[0116] The different load conditions result in different temperatures across the rotor, such as relatively high temperatures during relatively large load conditions and relatively low temperatures during relatively small load conditions. The average rotor temperature across different load conditions (especially those load conditions experienced by a particular motor 120 or rotor during operation) can be extrapolated to predict when a threshold may be exceeded under such different operating conditions, while a similar threshold may not be exceeded under alternative or current operating conditions.

[0117] In a non-limiting example, measurements taken by camera 100 can be correlated with current or predicted load conditions to determine or predict system health for the power system 12, motor 120, or rotor under different load conditions. For example, when the average rotor temperature is controlled by a controller (such as...) Figure 4When the controller 140 determines that a certain threshold may be exceeded when the load conditions are changed, the controller 140 may then instruct or otherwise provide the following message: such threshold is expected to be met or exceeded, or such threshold will be met or exceeded under a specific load condition; the controller 140 or other operators (such as pilots or remote flight controllers) may take action to avoid such load conditions; different load conditions may be modified so that the average rotor temperature remains below the threshold when the load conditions are changed; necessary inspections or maintenance may be scheduled or instructed; or even the load conditions may be updated or changed (where available) so that the average surface temperature is reduced or maintained below the threshold across different load conditions.

[0118] For example, when the rotor is experiencing minimum load (such as during idling), the average rotor temperature can be extrapolated to increased load conditions (such as during takeoff or flight) to determine whether the average rotor temperature is expected to exceed a threshold when the load changes to takeoff or flight. Additionally, the threshold can be extrapolated based on different load conditions, where different load conditions can determine different acceptable thresholds. Remedial actions can be taken before changing to different load conditions to maintain the average rotor temperature below the threshold or across the extrapolated threshold. Such a rate or value for extrapolating the temperature across different load conditions can be stored in the controller 140, such as in memory 144. In a non-limiting example, the change in average rotor temperature across different load conditions can be stored in memory 144 and updated by the controller 140 over time, thereby taking into account changes in the electrical power system 12 or motor 120 over time.

[0119] In another non-limiting example, the average rotor temperature can be compared to or otherwise correlated with a specific radius of the rotor. For example, local hot spots on the rotor measured by camera 100 will tail in a circular direction with a common radius. The average rotor temperature of such measurements can be correlated across the entire radial range of the rotor to identify the average rotor temperature locally elevated at a specific radius. Identification can be achieved by comparing with known average rotor temperatures across the entire radius or a specific radial distance, for example, these temperatures can be stored in memory 144 and compared by controller 140. Knowing the specific radial location of the temperature rise can be used to correlate the specific radial location with the rotor and related structures to diagnose or assist in diagnosing the location or source of the temperature rise. For example, if the bearing (such as...) Figure 4 If the rotor temperature near the bearing 128 becomes higher than expected, method 500 can be helpful in diagnosing the source of the temperature rise as the bearing. Therefore, it can be appreciated that determining the temperature at a specific radial location of the rotor is helpful in determining the health of the power system 12 or motor 120, and in diagnosing the source of the temperature rise.

[0120] The benefits of the system and method 500 described herein include non-invasive, in-situ monitoring of the health of the power system 12 and the motor 120. This provides anomaly detection capabilities. The system and method 500 further allows for the measurement and determination of the highest temperature of the generator rotor 124 during operation, although temperature data may tail while the generator rotor 124 is rotating. Additionally, rotor hotspot detection is permitted. Such a method allows an IR sensor as the camera 100, which is more cost-effective than other sensors and has a faster response time, such as faster than thermocouples. Furthermore, IR sensors are typically smaller and cheaper than other sensors, thus minimizing the cost and weight impact on the system. The camera 100 is well-suited for use in hot and oily environments due to the air circuit 230, which provides the benefit of cooling the camera 100 and cleaning oil or other contaminants from the lens 220. This system and method allow for health monitoring of high-value components of the power system 12, motor 120, or their components, as well as improved performance.

[0121] Method 500 also allows consideration of the temperature of the power system 12, motor 120, or generator rotor 124 during different load conditions or rotational speeds. This allows temperature extrapolation to different load conditions to determine whether changes in load conditions may result in a temperature threshold being met or exceeded. Similarly, temperature trends over time for the generator rotor 124 or specific portions thereof can be used to predict or estimate when such a threshold may be exceeded. This allows for predictive health monitoring of the power system 12, motor 120, or generator rotor 124 over time and under different load conditions to predict or estimate when a threshold may be met or exceeded, and to indicate or schedule actions before such a threshold is met or exceeded. Such actions, for example, could be maintenance or inspection.

[0122] Furthermore, the methods and equipment described herein facilitate design verification and optimization, as well as product inspection. More specifically, measurements from camera 100 can be used to verify or optimize designs to determine if the temperature values ​​for portions of the power system or motor design are within the expected range or values, and to identify areas where temperature increases occur.

[0123] The sequences described in this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit any aspect of this disclosure or the applicable methods of applying that aspect, as it is understood that parts of a method may be arranged in a different logical order, may include additional or intermediate parts, or the description of a method may be divided into multiple parts, or the description of a method may be omitted without diminishing the method described. Furthermore, the different methods described herein (such as...) Figures 7 to 9 Different aspects of methods 300, 400, 500 can be mixed together, or new methods can be created by utilizing aspects of two or more methods, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0124] To a degree not yet described, different features and structures of various aspects can be combined and used with each other as desired. The fact that a feature cannot be illustrated in all aspects is not intended to be interpreted as impossible, but rather for the sake of descriptive brevity. Therefore, various features of different aspects can be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are explicitly described. The combination or arrangement of features described herein is covered by this disclosure.

[0125] This written description uses examples to disclose aspects of this disclosure (including best practices) and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice aspects of this disclosure (including making and using any apparatus or system, and performing any incorporated methods). The patentability of this disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

[0126] Further aspects of this disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following provisions: A health monitoring system for a turbine engine includes: an electric power system; a camera positioned to image the electric power system, the camera including: a camera housing having an imaging end having an end wall; a lens positioned at or within the end wall; and an air circuit passing through the end wall and positioned to guide an air supply along or at the lens.

[0127] In accordance with any of the foregoing terms, the health monitoring system wherein the camera housing is cylindrical.

[0128] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the camera housing extends beyond the end wall and includes an inner surface defining a cavity at the end wall.

[0129] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the inner surface defines a set of channels disposed in the inner surface.

[0130] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the camera housing defines a set of outlets extending through the camera housing.

[0131] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a drainage channel disposed within the inner surface.

[0132] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, an air circuit defines a first curtain passage oriented to guide an air supply from an end wall and along or at a lens.

[0133] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, an air circuit defines a second curtain passage that is configured to receive an air supply from a first curtain passage along a lens or at the lens.

[0134] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, an air circuit is defined at the lens and extends through an end-wall orifice.

[0135] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, an end-wall orifice fluidly couples a first curtain passage to a second curtain passage.

[0136] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a drainage channel located within the body at the end wall.

[0137] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a drainage path extending through at least one of the end wall or the body, the drainage path fluidly coupling the drainage channel to the second curtain passage.

[0138] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the air circuit further includes an inlet passage extending through the end wall, the inlet passage coupling the internal fluid of the camera to the first curtain passage.

[0139] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the air circuit further comprises, in series flow relationship: an inlet passage; a first curtain passage extending from the inlet passage and oriented to discharge along or at the lens; an end-wall orifice extending through the end-wall at the lens; and a second curtain passage positioned to receive air supply from the end-wall orifice, the second curtain passage being separated from the first curtain passage by the end-wall orifice.

[0140] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, the lens is at least partially mounted within the end wall.

[0141] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a sensor configured to receive electromagnetic radiation focused by a lens.

[0142] In any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor.

[0143] In any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system includes an electric motor.

[0144] A camera for imaging an electric motor includes: a housing having an imaging end having an end wall; a lens positioned at or within the end wall; and an air circuit passing through the end wall and positioned to guide an air supply along or at the lens.

[0145] Cameras according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the camera housing is cylindrical.

[0146] A camera according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the camera housing extends beyond the end wall and includes an inner surface defining a cavity at the end wall.

[0147] The camera according to any of the foregoing terms further includes a set of channels disposed in the inner surface.

[0148] The camera, according to any of the foregoing terms, further includes a set of outlets extending through the camera housing, the set of outlets extending beyond the end wall.

[0149] The camera according to any of the foregoing terms further includes a drainage channel provided in the inner surface.

[0150] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the camera, wherein the air circuit further includes a first curtain passage oriented to guide the air supply from the end wall and along or at the lens.

[0151] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the camera, wherein the air circuit further includes a second curtain passage positioned to receive an air supply provided from the first curtain passage along the lens or at the lens.

[0152] According to any of the foregoing terms, the air circuit further includes an end-wall aperture extending through the end-wall at the lens.

[0153] According to any of the foregoing terms, the camera wherein the end-wall aperture fluidly couples the first curtain passage to the second curtain passage.

[0154] The camera according to any of the foregoing terms further includes a drainage channel located in the body at the end wall.

[0155] The camera according to any of the foregoing terms further includes a drainage path extending through at least one of the end wall or body, the drainage path fluidly coupling the drainage channel to the second curtain passage.

[0156] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the air circuit further includes an inlet passage extending through the end wall that couples the internal fluid of the camera to the first curtain passage.

[0157] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the air circuit further includes, in a series flow relationship: an inlet passage; a first curtain passage extending from the inlet passage and oriented to discharge along or at the lens; an end-wall aperture extending through the end wall at the lens; and a second curtain passage positioned to receive air supply from the end-wall aperture, the second curtain passage being spaced apart from the first curtain passage by the end-wall aperture.

[0158] A camera according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the lens is at least partially mounted within the end wall.

[0159] The camera according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a sensor configured to receive electromagnetic radiation focused by a lens.

[0160] The camera, according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the sensor is an infrared sensor.

[0161] A method for imaging an electric power system, the method comprising: imaging the electric power system using a camera; delivering an air supply along an air circuit within the camera; and removing oil or contaminants from the camera along the air circuit.

[0162] The methods described in any of the foregoing clauses further include cleaning oil or contaminants from the camera lens.

[0163] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes using an air circuit to cool the camera.

[0164] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes using a set of channels within the inner surface of a cavity located at the defined camera to redirect oil or contaminants from the camera.

[0165] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes collecting oil or contaminants in the drainage channel.

[0166] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes transferring oil or contaminants in the drain channel to the air circuit via a drain path.

[0167] A method for monitoring the health of an electric power system includes: detecting partial discharges within the electric power system using a partial discharge sensor; image the electric power system using a camera to generate an image; comparing the detected partial discharges with a partial discharge threshold; comparing the image of the electric power system with the threshold representation; and determining the health of the electric power system based on the detection of partial discharges and the image of the electric power system.

[0168] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes an indication of the health of the output power system.

[0169] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the health of the output power system further includes displaying the health of the power system on a display.

[0170] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the output indication further includes the statement that the threshold has been met or exceeded when the detected partial discharge meets or exceeds the partial discharge threshold, or when the image of the power system meets or exceeds the threshold.

[0171] The method according to any of the foregoing terms further includes displaying instructions on the display.

[0172] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the camera is an infrared camera or an ultraviolet camera.

[0173] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the camera is an ultraviolet camera, and wherein the output indication further includes an indication that the output image exceeds an ultraviolet light intensity threshold.

[0174] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the camera is an infrared camera, and wherein imaging of the electric power system further includes thermal imaging of the electric power system.

[0175] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein partial discharge is detected and the electric power system is imaged at the same location within the electric power system.

[0176] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the power system is an electric motor, wherein detecting partial discharge within the power system further includes detecting partial discharge within the electric motor, wherein imaging the power system further includes imaging the electric motor, and wherein the electric motor is one of a generator, a starter, a motor, or a transformer.

[0177] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the power system is a generator, and wherein determining the health of the power system further includes determining at least one of rotor health for the generator rotor, stator insulation health for the generator stator, or bearing health for the bearings.

[0178] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the power system is a converter, and wherein determining the health of the power system further includes determining the health of at least one of the semiconductors or capacitors within the converter.

[0179] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the partial discharge sensor is at least one of a PCB antenna, an RTD sensor, a thermocouple, a capacitive sensor, or an inductive sensor.

[0180] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the partial discharge sensor is positioned within a shielded structure of the electrical power system.

[0181] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the shielding structure is disposed within the housing of the power system.

[0182] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the electrical power system includes at least some electrical insulation, and wherein detecting partial discharge further includes detecting potential degradation of the electrical insulation based on the detected partial discharge.

[0183] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein detecting partial discharge further includes detecting an electric arc or corona within the electric power system.

[0184] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining at least one of open circuit, short circuit, thermal runaway, eccentricity, or bearing failure by comparing an image with a threshold representation.

[0185] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the imaging of the electric power system further includes determining a thermal map of the electric power system.

[0186] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of comparing the image of the power system with the threshold representation further includes comparing the heat map with the threshold heat map to determine the health of the power system based on the temperature difference between the heat map and the threshold heat map.

[0187] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein imaging of the electric power system further includes measuring the surface emissivity.

[0188] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the surface emissivity with the detected partial discharge to determine the fidelity of the partial discharge sensor.

[0189] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining the degradation of the insulation of the power system based on surface emissivity.

[0190] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of imaging the electric power system further includes determining the change of temperature over time.

[0191] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein imaging further includes imaging over time to determine temperature trends.

[0192] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining when the temperature will exceed a threshold temperature representation based on temperature trends.

[0193] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein detecting partial discharge further includes detecting partial discharge over time to define a partial discharge trend.

[0194] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining when the partial discharge will exceed the partial discharge threshold based on the partial discharge trend.

[0195] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the partial discharge threshold is zero partial discharge.

[0196] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health of the electrical power system is determined in real time.

[0197] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the determination of the health of the power system is performed after the operation of the power system.

[0198] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein determining the health of the electric power system further includes at least one of spectral analysis, wavelet analysis, deep learning, machine learning, or a combination thereof.

[0199] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein detecting partial discharge within an electrical power system using partial discharge sensors further includes detecting partial discharge at a common location using at least two partial discharge sensors to generate a first signal and a second signal.

[0200] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes comparing the first signal with the second signal to determine the fidelity for at least two partial discharge sensors.

[0201] A health monitoring system for an electric power system includes: a partial discharge sensor coupled to and positioned to measure the electric power system, and configured to generate a signal representing partial discharges within the electric power system; a camera coupled to and positioned to image the electric power system, and configured to generate a signal representing the temperature of the electric power system; and a controller operatively and communicatively coupled to the partial discharge sensor and the camera to receive the signal representing partial discharges and the signal representing temperature, the controller being configured to: compare partial discharges detected by the partial discharge sensor with a partial discharge threshold; compare the temperature detected by the camera with a temperature threshold; and determine the health of the electric power system based on the comparison of partial discharges with the partial discharge threshold and the comparison of temperature with the temperature threshold.

[0202] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to output electrical power system health.

[0203] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a display configured to show the output health of the electrical power system.

[0204] In any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system includes an electric motor comprising one of a generator, starter, motor, or transformer.

[0205] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the motor is a generator, and wherein the controller is further configured to determine the health of at least one of the generator's rotor health, stator insulation health, or bearing health.

[0206] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the electrical power is a converter, and wherein the controller is further configured to determine the health of at least one of the semiconductors or capacitors within the converter.

[0207] In any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the partial discharge sensor is at least one of a PCB antenna, an RTD sensor, a thermocouple, a capacitive sensor, or an inductive sensor.

[0208] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the health monitoring system further includes a housing with a shielded structure disposed on an electrical power system, and wherein a partial discharge sensor is positioned within the shielded structure.

[0209] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the electrical power system includes at least some electrical insulation, and wherein the controller is configured to detect potential degradation of the electrical insulation based on a comparison of partial discharge with a partial discharge threshold.

[0210] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to determine at least one of open circuit, short circuit, thermal runaway, eccentricity, or bearing failure by comparing temperature with a temperature threshold.

[0211] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to generate a thermal map of the electric power system based on a signal representing the temperature of the electric power system.

[0212] According to any of the foregoing provisions, in a health monitoring system, the controller is further configured to compare a heat map with a threshold heat map as a temperature threshold to determine the health of the power system based on the temperature difference between the heat map and the threshold heat map.

[0213] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the surface emissivity of the electric power system based on a signal representing the temperature of the electric power system.

[0214] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, the controller is further configured to compare the surface emissivity with a signal representing partial discharge to determine the fidelity of the partial discharge sensor.

[0215] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is configured to determine the location or source of partial discharge based on surface emissivity.

[0216] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to determine multiple signals representing the temperature of the electrical power system over time.

[0217] In any of the foregoing provisions, a health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to determine a temperature trend based on multiple signals representing the temperature of an electrical power system.

[0218] The health monitoring system, as provided in any of the foregoing provisions, further includes determining when the measured temperature will exceed a temperature threshold based on temperature trends.

[0219] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, the controller is further configured to determine a partial discharge trend based on multiple signals representing partial discharges of an electrical power system.

[0220] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining when the measured partial discharge will exceed the partial discharge threshold based on the partial discharge trend.

[0221] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is configured to determine the health of the electrical power system in real time.

[0222] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to further utilize at least one of spectrum analysis, wavelet analysis, deep learning, machine learning, or a combination thereof to determine the health of the power system.

[0223] A method for imaging an electric motor, the method comprising: rotating a rotor spaced apart from a stator to generate an electric current; slowing down the rotation of the rotor during a spin deceleration process; imaging the rotor at the beginning of the spin deceleration process to determine a first rotor temperature; imaging the rotor at the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a second rotor temperature; determining the amount of rotor temperature reduction as the difference between the first rotor temperature and the second rotor temperature; imaging the rotor after the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a third rotor temperature; and determining the highest rotor temperature as the sum of the third rotor temperature and the amount of rotor temperature reduction.

[0224] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the motor is a generator.

[0225] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the highest rotor temperature with the threshold temperature.

[0226] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes determining the health of the generator based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature with a threshold temperature.

[0227] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes outputting at least one of the highest rotor temperature or the health of the generator to a display.

[0228] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the highest rotor temperature is determined each time the rotor slows down during the spin deceleration process, so as to determine the trend of the highest rotor temperature over time.

[0229] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining when the highest rotor temperature will exceed the threshold temperature based on trends.

[0230] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes scheduling maintenance for the generator before the highest rotor temperature exceeds the threshold temperature based on trend assessment.

[0231] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes: imaging the stator at the beginning of the spin deceleration process to determine a first stator temperature; imaging the stator at the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a second stator temperature; determining the stator temperature reduction as the difference between the first stator temperature and the second stator temperature; imaging the stator after the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a third stator temperature; and determining the highest stator temperature as the sum of the third stator temperature and the stator temperature reduction.

[0232] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the highest stator temperature with the threshold stator temperature.

[0233] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes determining the health of the generator by comparing the highest stator temperature with a threshold stator temperature.

[0234] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the imaging of the rotor is accomplished using a camera mounted on the generator.

[0235] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the camera is an infrared camera.

[0236] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes using an air curtain provided by an air circuit passing through the camera to clean the camera.

[0237] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes using an air supply provided by an air circuit passing through the camera to cool the camera.

[0238] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of imaging the rotor further includes determining the emissivity of the rotor.

[0239] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein imaging of the rotor further includes imaging the rotor multiple times during the spin deceleration process.

[0240] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of multiple imaging of the rotor further includes imaging the rotor after the start of the spin deceleration process and before the end of the spin deceleration process.

[0241] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes correlating the highest rotor temperature with load conditions for the rotor to determine the health of the generator.

[0242] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load conditions for the rotor are at least one of engine operating conditions, flight conditions, rotor rotation speed, or operating environment.

[0243] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the highest rotor temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold temperature also associated with the load condition.

[0244] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health of the generator is based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature associated with the load condition and the threshold temperature associated with the load condition.

[0245] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes stopping the rotation of the rotor after the spin deceleration process has ended and before imaging the rotor.

[0246] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes the highest rotor temperature of the output generator.

[0247] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes the highest rotor temperature of the output generator.

[0248] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes outputting the highest rotor temperature to a display.

[0249] A method for determining the health of a rotating machine for an electric motor, the method comprising: slowing down the rotation of the rotating machine during a spin deceleration process; imaged the rotating machine with a camera at the beginning of the spin deceleration process to determine a first temperature of the rotating machine; imaged the rotating machine with a camera at the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a second temperature of the rotating machine; determining a temperature reduction amount as the difference between the first and second temperatures using a controller; imaged a third temperature of the rotating machine with a camera after the end of the spin deceleration process; and comparing a maximum rotating machine temperature, defined as the sum of the third temperature and the temperature reduction amount, with a threshold temperature to determine the health of the rotating machine.

[0250] According to the method of any of the foregoing clauses, wherein each time the rotating machine is slowed down during the spin deceleration process, the highest rotating machine temperature is determined to determine the trend of the highest rotating machine temperature over time.

[0251] The methods described in any of the foregoing provisions further include trend-based assessment of when the highest rotating machine temperature will exceed the threshold temperature.

[0252] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes scheduling maintenance for the rotating machine before the highest rotating machine temperature exceeds the threshold temperature based on trend assessment.

[0253] According to any of the foregoing terms, the camera is set as a group of multiple cameras.

[0254] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the camera is an infrared camera.

[0255] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes using an air curtain provided by an air circuit passing through the camera to clean the camera.

[0256] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes using an air supply provided by an air circuit passing through the camera to cool the camera.

[0257] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein imaging of a rotating machine further includes determining the emissivity of the rotating machine.

[0258] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein imaging of the rotor further includes imaging the rotor multiple times during the spin deceleration process.

[0259] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of multiple imaging of the rotor further includes imaging the rotor after the start of the spin deceleration process and before the end of the spin deceleration process.

[0260] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes correlating the highest rotating machine temperature with the load conditions for the rotating machine to determine the health of the rotating machine.

[0261] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load conditions for the rotating machine are at least one of engine operating conditions, flight conditions, the rotational speed of the rotating machine, or the operating environment.

[0262] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the method of associating the highest rotor temperature with the load condition further includes comparing the highest rotating machine temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold temperature also associated with the load condition.

[0263] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health of the rotating machine is based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature associated with the load conditions with a threshold temperature also associated with the load conditions.

[0264] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes stopping the rotation of the rotating machine after the spin deceleration process has ended and before imaging the rotating machine.

[0265] A health monitoring system for an electric motor includes: a rotor; a camera coupled to the motor and positioned to image the rotor to generate a signal representing the temperature of the rotor; and a controller operatively and communicatively coupled to the camera, the controller being configured to: image the rotor for the motor at the beginning of a spin deceleration process to determine a first rotor temperature; image the rotor at the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a second rotor temperature; determine a decrease in rotor temperature as the difference between the first rotor temperature and the second rotor temperature; image the rotor after the end of the spin deceleration process to determine a third rotor temperature; determine a maximum rotor temperature as the sum of the third rotor temperature and the decrease in rotor temperature; and determine the health of the motor by comparing the maximum rotor temperature with a threshold temperature.

[0266] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to determine the highest rotor temperature each time the rotor slows down during the spin deceleration process, so as to determine the trend of the highest rotor temperature over time.

[0267] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to assess, based on trends, when the highest rotor temperature will exceed the threshold temperature.

[0268] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the health monitoring system, wherein the controller is further configured to schedule maintenance for the motor before the highest rotor temperature exceeds a threshold temperature based on a trend assessment.

[0269] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to compare the highest stator temperature with a threshold stator temperature.

[0270] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the health of the motor is based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature with a threshold temperature and a comparison of the highest stator temperature with a threshold stator temperature.

[0271] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing terms, wherein the camera is an infrared camera.

[0272] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, the camera further includes an air circuit configured to clean the camera using an air curtain provided by the air circuit passing through the camera.

[0273] In a health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing terms, the camera further includes an air circuit that extends through the camera and is configured to cool the camera.

[0274] A health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing provisions, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the rotor's emission rate.

[0275] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to correlate the highest rotor temperature with load conditions for the rotor to determine the health of the motor.

[0276] The health monitoring system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load conditions for the rotor are at least one of engine operating conditions, flight conditions, rotor rotation speed, or operating environment.

[0277] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health monitoring system wherein the controller is further configured to compare the highest rotor temperature associated with load conditions with a threshold temperature also associated with load conditions.

[0278] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the health of the motor is based on a comparison of the highest rotor temperature associated with the load condition and the threshold temperature associated with the load condition.

[0279] A method for determining the health of an electric motor includes: rotating a rotor; imaging the rotor with a camera during rotation to determine an average rotor temperature; and correlating the average rotor temperature with load conditions to determine the health of the electric motor.

[0280] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes extrapolating the average rotor temperature across at least one other load condition.

[0281] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the camera is coupled to the motor.

[0282] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the camera is either an infrared camera or an ultraviolet camera.

[0283] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load condition is one of electrical load, operating conditions or rotor rotation speed.

[0284] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load condition is an electrical load, and wherein the electrical load is one of power, current or demand provided by the motor.

[0285] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load conditions are operating conditions for a turbine engine that is carried, coupled to or electrically coupled to the rotor, and wherein the operating conditions are one of starting, idling, taxiing, takeoff, climbing, cruising, descent and landing.

[0286] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the load condition is the rotational speed of the rotor, and wherein the rotor is part of a generator comprising a rotor and a stator.

[0287] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes storing the average rotor temperature, and updating the rate or value for extrapolating the temperature across different load conditions.

[0288] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the average rotor temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold.

[0289] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes determining the health of the motor based on a comparison of the average rotor temperature associated with load conditions with a threshold.

[0290] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes outputting at least one of the average rotor temperature or the health of the motor associated with the load conditions to a display.

[0291] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes comparing the average rotor temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold to determine whether the average rotor temperature will exceed the threshold based on different load conditions.

[0292] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the average rotor temperature associated with the load conditions with a threshold also associated with the load conditions.

[0293] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the health of the motor is based on a comparison of the average rotor temperature associated with the load conditions and a threshold associated with the load conditions.

[0294] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes associating a threshold with a load condition.

[0295] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes comparing the average rotor temperature associated with the load condition with a threshold associated with the load condition.

[0296] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes extrapolating the average rotor temperature associated with the load condition to different load conditions, and comparing the extrapolated average rotor temperature for different load conditions with a threshold.

[0297] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes extrapolating a threshold associated with the load condition to different load conditions, and comparing the extrapolated average rotor temperature for the different load conditions with the extrapolated threshold associated with the load condition.

[0298] The method according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes cleaning the camera using an air curtain provided by an air circuit passing through the camera.

Claims

1. A method for imaging an electric motor, the method comprising: To generate an electric current by rotating a rotor that is separated from the stator; The rotation of the rotor is slowed down during the spin deceleration process; The rotor is imaged at the start of the spin deceleration process to determine the first rotor temperature; At the end of the spin deceleration process, the rotor is imaged to determine the temperature of the second rotor. The amount of rotor temperature reduction is defined as the difference between the first rotor temperature and the second rotor temperature. The rotor is imaged after the spin deceleration process ends to determine the third rotor temperature; as well as The highest rotor temperature is determined to be the sum of the third rotor temperature and the amount of rotor temperature reduction.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The motor is a generator.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising comparing the highest rotor temperature with a threshold temperature.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising determining the health of the motor based on the comparison between the highest rotor temperature and the threshold temperature.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising outputting at least one of the highest rotor temperature or the health of the motor to a display.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The highest rotor temperature is determined each time the rotor slows down during the spin deceleration process, in order to determine the trend of the highest rotor temperature over time.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising determining, based on the trend, when the highest rotor temperature will exceed a threshold temperature.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The imaging of the rotor is accomplished using a camera mounted on the motor.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The camera is an infrared camera.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Imaging the rotor further includes determining the emissivity of the rotor.

Images