Configurable Windings for Multiphase Motor Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiphase induction motors require complex electronic systems to change the number of phases for transitioning between starter and alternator modes, leading to increased complexity and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
The use of configurable windings and contactors in an electrical induction motor allows for selective connection in star or mesh configurations, adjusting the number of magnetic poles to optimize torque and speed for both starting and generating modes without altering the electronic inverter's total voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of phases is changed to accommodate change in number of poles for transitioning from engine cranking to alternator mode, then the motor can operate in both starter and alternator modes, but the electronic complexity of the inverter increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic pole configuration parameter rather than the phase parameter to enable mode transition. By reconfiguring the winding connections (series/parallel arrangements) to change the number of magnetic poles while keeping the phase count constant, the system achieves mode transition without increasing inverter electronic complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the motor universally applicable to both starter and alternator modes through a single inverter configuration. The winding reconfiguration mechanism allows the same motor-inverter system to perform dual functions without requiring multiple inverters or complex electronic control changes
2Force
If the induction motor operates at lower speeds and higher torque for engine cranking, then sufficient starting torque is provided, but the battery power is significantly drained for a relatively short period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically reconfigures the winding connections based on operating mode. During engine cranking, the windings are arranged to produce higher torque at lower speeds. When transitioning to alternator mode, the same windings are reconfigured to optimize for higher speeds and lower torque, allowing the system to adapt its characteristics to match operational requirements and reduce unnecessary energy consumption
3Power
If the induction motor operates at higher speeds and lower torque to generate sufficient power in alternator mode, then electrical power generation is maintained, but the torque output is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the winding connection parameters to optimize for power generation rather than torque production. By reconfiguring the windings to reduce the number of magnetic poles and change the connection topology, the motor operates efficiently at higher speeds with lower torque, maximizing electrical power generation capability in alternator mode
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 enables efficient operation as both a starter motor and alternator, reducing electronic complexity, maintaining power output across modes, and minimizing voltage increases, thus improving efficiency and safety by controlling current and voltage distribution.
Implementation Method 1
current flowing through the windings results in the generation of 2N magnetic poles
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical induction motor includes a plurality of windings, and a plurality of contactors. Each of the plurality of contactors is configured to be selectively opened or closed in a circuit including the plurality of windings to selectively connect the windings together in a star configuration wherein current flowing through the windings results in the generation of 2N magnetic poles, with N equal to the number of phases of the motor. Each of the plurality of contactors is also configured to be selectively opened or closed in the circuit including the plurality of windings to selectively connect the windings together in a mesh configuration wherein current flowing through the windings results in the generation of two magnetic poles.