Dual-Output Generator for Simultaneous DC and AC Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical generators are inadequate for providing power to loads requiring different types of electrical power, specifically direct current (DC) and constant frequency alternating current (AC), as they typically generate power based on rotational speed, which limits their versatility in applications needing multiple power types.
Innovation Solution
A dual-output generator system comprising two generators with rotors coupled for common rotation, each with a power converter to convert rotational energy into DC and constant frequency AC power, utilizing exciters and rotating rectifiers to induce power in stator windings, and a permanent magnet for common rotation with the generators to provide excitation current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional single generator is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to provide both DC and constant frequency AC power is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two generators with different output types (DC and constant frequency AC) into a single integrated power generation system. The generators share common mechanical components including a single rotor assembly, exciter system, and cooling structure, while producing both DC and AC power outputs simultaneously from a single drive shaft connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The power generation system is designed to perform multiple functions by providing both DC and constant frequency AC power outputs from a single generator assembly. The system can simultaneously serve diverse electrical loads requiring different power types, making the generator universal in its power delivery capability.
2Productivity
If separate generators are used for DC and AC power, then the power conversion efficiency is improved, but the mounting space and cooling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The generator design employs a nested structure where the DC generator and AC generator components are arranged concentrically or in overlapping configurations. The exciters, rotors, and stators are positioned to utilize shared space, with one generator's components nested within or adjacent to the other, minimizing the overall footprint while maintaining separate power conversion pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooling system is merged into a single integrated structure that serves both generators simultaneously. A common cooling apparatus with shared coolant flow paths and thermal management components cools both the DC and AC generator windings and magnetic components, reducing the total cooling system volume and mounting space requirements.
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
Enables simultaneous generation of DC and constant frequency AC power from a single source of rotational energy, providing redundancy and efficiency in power generation for diverse electrical loads, such as in aircraft systems, while minimizing mounting and cooling requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the frequency of the power is a function of the rotational speed of the shaft... interaction of the moving magnetic field with the windings generates electrical power
Implementation Method 2
A rotating rectifier can electrically connect the exciter rotor windings with the generator rotor windings for providing excitation current
Data Source
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AI summary
A dual-output generator (100) includes a first generator (102) with a rotor (124), a second generator (104) with a rotor (144), and first and second power converters (132, 152). The rotor of the first generator (102) is coupled to the rotor of the second generator (104) for common rotation with the rotor of the first generator (102). The first power converter (132) connects electrically to the first generator (102) for converting rotation of the first generator rotor (124) into direct current power. The second power converter (152) connects electrically to the second generator (104) for converting rotation of the second generator rotor (144) into constant frequency alternating current power.