Concentric-Ring Electric Machine Conversion for Symmetric Fault Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy conversion systems struggle to address low-voltage and ultra-low-voltage applications, particularly in electric machines with segmented designs, leading to asymmetrical magnetic field distribution and high weight and cost due to the use of conventional power electronics converters.
Innovation Solution
A redundant energy conversion system utilizing concentric rings and power electronics converters connected in series or parallel, allowing the use of ultra-low voltage converters, maintaining symmetrical magnetic field distribution even with faults, and integrating power electronics within the electric machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional power electronics converters are used in segmented electric machines, then the system can operate, but the weight and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional high-voltage power electronics converters to ultra-low-voltage converters (e.g., 12V, 24V, 48V). This fundamental parameter change in operating voltage enables the use of lightweight converter topologies such as DC-DC converters with simple switch-and-diode configurations, eliminating the need for heavy isolation transformers and large capacitors required in conventional high-voltage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electric machine into multiple independent windings (first winding, second winding, third winding) that can be independently controlled by separate ultra-low-voltage converters. This segmentation allows each converter to operate at low voltage while collectively achieving high-voltage output through series connection, thereby reducing individual converter weight and cost.
2Power
If power electronics converters are connected in series to achieve high-voltage output, then voltage is stepped up, but the magnetic field distribution becomes asymmetrical when faults occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different functions to different windings: the first winding (connected to first converter) provides primary power conversion, the second winding (connected to second converter) provides redundancy and maintains magnetic field symmetry, and the third winding (connected to third converter) enhances power capability. This differentiated local quality ensures that when one converter fails, other windings can compensate to maintain symmetrical magnetic field distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by designing a redundant multi-winding system where备用 windings are pre-configured to compensate for potential converter failures. The control system monitors converter status and automatically redistributes loads to maintain symmetrical magnetic field operation even when faults occur, preventing asymmetry before it affects system performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If segmented designs are used for easier manufacturing, then assembly is simplified, but the magnetic field distribution becomes asymmetrical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately introduces asymmetry in the control strategy to compensate for physical segmentation asymmetry. While the machine is physically segmented into independent windings for manufacturing ease, the control system applies asymmetrical current distribution patterns that result in symmetrical magnetic field production. This allows the benefits of segmented manufacturing while achieving the performance of symmetrical magnetic fields.
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 system achieves reduced weight and cost by using ultra-low voltage converters, maintains symmetrical magnetic fields, and supports both motoring and generating modes with improved power density.
Implementation Method 1
The energy conversion system comprises an electrical machine and at least two power electronics converters
Implementation Method 2
The winding is made in a certain pattern which, when carrying electric current of a certain frequency with a certain waveform, will produce magnetic field of a desired spatial distribution and motion pattern
Implementation Method 3
The magnetic field when applied to the winding will produce electric current. The two modes described above are the motoring mode and the generating mode, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion system comprising an electric machine and at least two power electronics converters, wherein the electrical machine comprises at least one current carrying component, wherein the current carrying component consists of at least two concentric rings forming the current carrying component. The at least two concentric rings are not galvanically or electrically connected to each other and each concentric ring is galvanically connected to at least one power converter via its machine side terminals.