Axial Gap Generator Layout for Compact Series Hybrid Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power generation assemblies in series hybrid vehicles face challenges in reducing size without compromising power generation performance, particularly when the engine and power generator are vertically integrated.
Innovation Solution
The power generation assembly incorporates an engine with a vertically oriented crankshaft and an axial gap power generator, where the rotor rotates about a vertical axis, allowing the power generator to be positioned at one side of the engine, reducing horizontal and vertical space occupancy without deteriorating performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the size of the power generator or engine in the vertical direction is simply reduced, then the vertical space occupancy is reduced, but the power generation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power generator is configured as an axial gap type with the rotor rotating about a vertical axis, changing the traditional horizontal rotation to vertical rotation. This dimensional change allows the power generator to be positioned at one side of the engine in the axial direction, reducing both horizontal and vertical space occupancy while maintaining power generation performance through optimized magnetic flux paths in the axial gap configuration
2Area of stationary object
If the power generator is positioned to reduce horizontal space, then the horizontal footprint is reduced, but the vertical space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By configuring the axial gap power generator with vertical rotation axis, the design transforms the space utilization from horizontal expansion to vertical integration. The rotor and stator are arranged in the axial direction with the rotor at one end and stator opposed to it, creating a compact configuration that minimizes both horizontal footprint and vertical height simultaneously
3Volume of moving object
If the axial gap power generator is configured with vertical rotation, then space efficiency is improved, but the mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The axial gap power generator is directly coupled to the engine crankshaft, merging the power generation function with the existing engine rotation. The rotor is connected to the crankshaft so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction of the crankshaft, eliminating the need for separate drive mechanisms and reducing overall mechanical complexity despite the unconventional vertical rotation configuration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration results in a compact power generation assembly with high space efficiency and improved power generation capability, enhancing the overall performance and stability of the series hybrid vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
an axial gap power generator located at one side of the engine in the axial direction and including a rotor connected to the crank shaft so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction and a stator opposed to the rotor in the axial direction while being spaced apart from the rotor in the axial direction
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation assembly includes: an engine including a crank shaft having an axial direction extending vertically; and an axial gap power generator located at one side of the engine in the axial direction and including a rotor connected to the crank shaft so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction and a stator opposed to the rotor in the axial direction while being spaced apart from the rotor in the axial direction.