Electromagnetic Brush Actuation for Rotor Contact Wear Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing externally excited electric machines suffer from wear and tear of the sliding contact element due to its permanent contact with the rotating rotor, even when the machine is not energized.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the sliding contact element into an electromagnetic actuator, allowing it to move between a contact position and a lifted position, thereby reducing wear by breaking contact when the machine is not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sliding contact element is permanently in contact with the rotor contact segment, then reliable current transmission is ensured, but wear and tear of the sliding contact element occurs even when the machine is not energized
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding contact element is integrated into an electromagnetic actuator that enables it to dynamically change position between contact and non-contact states. The actuator includes a movable component with the sliding contact element that can be positioned against the rotor contact segment for current transmission, or retracted to minimize wear when the machine is not energized.
2Loss of substance
If an elaborate mechanism with movably mounted rod and adjusting element is used to lift the sliding contact element, then wear can be reduced, but the design becomes very elaborate and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding contact element is merged with the movable component of the electromagnetic actuator, eliminating the need for separate mechanical lifting mechanisms. The actuator's electromagnetic field directly controls the position of the sliding contact element, replacing complex mechanical rods, joints, and adjusting elements with a more compact electromagnetic system.
3Device complexity
If the sliding contact element is directly integrated in the electromagnetic actuator, then the design becomes more compact and simpler, but the adjustment mechanism must be precisely designed
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator utilizes the electromagnetic field generated by its coil to automatically position the movable component with the sliding contact element. The magnetic field naturally provides the adjustment force and positioning, eliminating the need for external precision adjustment mechanisms while maintaining reliable contact when needed.
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
The solution results in a more compact, simpler design with reduced wear and tear on the sliding contact element, as it is only in contact with the rotor when necessary, and can be easily integrated into machines with limited design space.
Implementation Method 1
The sliding contact element (7) is integrated in an electromagnetic actuator (6), by which it can be controlled to move between a position lying against the contact segment (4) and a position spaced apart from it
Data Source
AI summary
An externally excited electric machine comprises a rotor as well as a contact device having at least one sliding contact element positioned against a contact segment of the rotor for transmitting an exciter current, wherein the sliding contact element is integrated in an electromagnetic actuator, by which it can be controlled to move between a position lying against the contact segment and a position spaced apart from it.