Dual Winding Generator for Naval Integrated Power Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated Power Systems (IPS) in naval vessels face challenges in achieving high power density and cost efficiency due to the need for multiple transformers to manage different voltage levels for propulsion and service loads, which increases system size, weight, and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A dual winding generator with galvanic isolation between propulsion and service load windings, allowing for multiple voltage levels to be generated from a single unit, eliminating the need for separate transformers and utilizing high-power semiconductors for efficient power conversion and fault protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If step-down transformers are used to lower generator voltage to service voltage, then voltage regulation is achieved, but system size, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the voltage transformation function and power generation function into a single integrated generator unit. The generator directly produces multiple voltage levels (propulsion voltage and service voltage) through separate windings, eliminating the need for external step-down transformers. This merging of functions reduces system weight while maintaining voltage regulation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator is designed with multi-functionality to serve both propulsion loads and service loads simultaneously. By incorporating multiple windings that can operate independently, the single generator unit performs the work of multiple devices (generator + transformers), reducing overall system weight and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transformers are added to manage different voltage levels, then voltage distribution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple voltage distribution functions into a single generator by incorporating separate windings for different voltage levels. This eliminates the need for multiple transformers and complex switching arrangements, simplifying the overall system while maintaining the ability to distribute power at multiple voltage levels to different loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator is designed as a universal power source that can simultaneously supply both propulsion voltage and service voltage through its multiple windings. This multi-functional design simplifies the system architecture by replacing multiple specialized devices (transformers for different voltage levels) with a single versatile generator.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If transformers are included at propulsion motor drives to reduce current harmonics, then power quality is improved, but system cost and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmonic reduction function from external transformers and integrates it directly into the generator design. By incorporating dedicated windings and control mechanisms within the generator, the system reduces current harmonics at the source without requiring additional external transformer components, thereby reducing system cost and size.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator windings act as an intermediary that directly addresses harmonic issues before power is distributed to propulsion motors. By generating clean power at the source with proper winding design, the system eliminates the need for intermediate harmonic-filtering transformers, reducing overall system complexity and cost.
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 solution significantly increases power density and reduces overall system cost by enabling efficient power distribution at multiple voltages without transformers, while maintaining constant service load voltage and varying propulsion voltage with ship speed, and provides effective fault protection and harmonic reduction.
Implementation Method 1
a prime mover provides rotational power to a synchronous generator. Power produced by the generator is typically at a medium voltage
Implementation Method 2
A dual winding generator with galvanic isolation between propulsion and service load windings, allowing for multiple voltage levels to be generated from a single unit
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated power system suitable for simultaneously powering marine propulsion and service loads. The system includes: (a) at least one generator configured with at least first and second armature windings configured to output respective first and second alternating current power signals of different voltages, the at least two armature windings positioned within the same stator slots so that they magnetically couple; (b) at least first and second rectifier circuits coupled to said generator to convert said first and second alternating current power signals into first and second direct current power signals; (c) a first load to which said first direct current power signal is coupled and a second load to which said second direct current power signal is coupled.