Concentric Dual Rotor Electric Machine Power Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric machines, including generators and motors, are bulky and lack the desired compactness and power density, necessitating a more efficient design to enhance performance and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A concentric dual-winding, multi-rotor electric machine is developed, featuring a first rotor, a stator, and a second rotor, with the stator having dual windings and tooth tips to securely hold the windings, allowing for independent operation and simultaneous functionality as both a generator and motor, with the first rotor starting the machine and the second rotor providing torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a conventional single-rotor electric machine design is used, then the structure is simple, but the machine is bulky and lacks power density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the first rotor is positioned inside the stator, and the second rotor is positioned outside the stator, creating a concentric multi-rotor structure. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional rotors to occupy overlapping spatial zones, significantly increasing power density while maintaining a compact overall footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the electric machine into distinct functional segments: a first rotor for starting functionality, a stator with dual windings for electromagnetic conversion, and a second rotor for torque production. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while contributing to the overall power density.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate electric machines are used to provide both starting and torque functions, then functional versatility is achieved, but the system becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional rotors (first rotor for starting, second rotor for torque) around a single shared stator with dual windings. This consolidation integrates what would traditionally require separate machines into one unified structure, providing both starting and torque functions while reducing overall system volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The stator with dual windings serves multiple functions: it interacts with both the first rotor and second rotor, enabling the single stator to support both starting and torque production operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate machines for different operational phases.
3Power
If a compact multi-rotor design is implemented, then power density increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex multi-rotor structure into independently manufacturable components: first rotor, stator with dual windings, and second rotor. Each segment can be manufactured separately using conventional processes, then assembled together, reducing the manufacturing complexity compared to creating the entire integrated structure as a single component.
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 design achieves a more compact and power-dense electric machine, enabling efficient energy conversion and mechanical power transmission while allowing for independent operation of the rotors, thereby addressing the bulkiness and inefficiency of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The stator has electrical windings that receive an alternating current from a separate source of which creates a rotating magnetic field within the stator/rotor airgap and as a consequence the rotor naturally follows the rotating magnetic field with its own rotation amongst its center axis
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-rotor electric machine includes a first rotor, a stator, and a second rotor. The stator is disposed concentric with the first rotor and is disposed radially outward from the first rotor. The stator has a first plurality estate or windings disposed proximate first stator teeth of the stator. The stator has a second plurality of stator windings disposed proximate second stator teeth of the stator. The second rotor is disposed concentric with and is disposed radially outward from the stator. The second rotor is rotatable relative to the first rotor.