Axle Generator Clutch Control to Prevent Rotor Jamming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional generator systems for trailers, which rely on a tractor for motive power, face issues with rotor jamming leading to unintended braking and excessive wear, as well as the need for continuous electrical power from the tractor, which can compromise safety and generator longevity.
Innovation Solution
A generator system with an electrically-actuated clutch that selectively connects and disconnects the rotor from the vehicle axle, monitored by a processor to maintain electrical output within predetermined ranges, preventing rotor jamming and excessive wear, and allowing self-starting and battery charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the rotor is continuously connected to the vehicle axle, then electrical power can be continuously generated, but the rotor may jam causing unintended braking and excessive wear
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is made dynamically controllable, transitioning between engaged and disengaged states based on real-time monitoring of electrical output parameters. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to varying operational conditions, preventing rotor jamming while maintaining power generation when conditions are favorable.
Solution Approach 2:
A monitoring system continuously tracks electrical output parameters (voltage, current, frequency) and provides feedback to the control mechanism. When parameters fall outside predetermined ranges indicating potential rotor jamming, the system automatically disengages the clutch, preventing damage while maintaining operational reliability.
2Productivity
If the rotor is continuously connected to generate power, then electrical needs are met, but wear on the generator increases reducing its lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous connection, the system employs periodic engagement and disengagement of the clutch based on monitored electrical output conditions. This periodic action allows the generator to operate only when electrical parameters are within optimal ranges, reducing cumulative wear while maintaining adequate power supply to meet electrical needs.
3Productivity
If electrical power is continuously drawn from the tractor, then trailer electrical needs are met, but safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer's electrical needs are met through self-service power generation using the axle-driven generator system. The generator converts mechanical energy from the axle into electrical power, allowing the trailer to independently power its electrical components without relying on continuous power draw from the tractor, thereby eliminating safety risks associated with electrical connections.
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 solution enhances safety by preventing unintended braking and extends generator lifespan by disconnecting the rotor when not needed, reducing wear and allowing self-sustaining power generation, thereby reducing reliance on tractor power for electrical needs.
Implementation Method 1
a generator having a rotor connected to an axle of the trailer, such that, when the trailer is pulled by a tractor, the trailer wheels are driven to rotate and this rotation is passed, via the axle, to the rotor of a generator mounted on the trailer. The generator generates electrical power for use by the trailer.
Data Source
AI summary
A generator system for connection to a vehicle axle. The generator system includes: an electrically-actuated clutch having an engaged position and a disengaged position; a generator and a processor. The generator includes: a rotor configured to be selectively connected, via the clutch, to the vehicle axle; and a stator. In the engaged position, the rotor is connected to the vehicle axle via the clutch such that torque from the vehicle axle is transmitted to the rotor. In the disengaged position, torque from the vehicle axle is not transmitted to the rotor. The processor is configured to control the clutch to actuate between the engaged and disengaged positions, and the processor is configured to monitor an electrical output of the generator, wherein the processor is configured to command the clutch to move to the disengaged position if the electrical output moves outside a predetermined range.