Aircraft Turbomachine Electric Machine Bar Connection Through IGV Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of a high-power electric machine on the low-pressure body of an aircraft turbomachine is complex due to mechanical integration, temperature resistance, and accessibility issues, particularly in connecting the machine to a power electronic circuit located at a distance, with large diameter harnesses posing compatibility problems and requiring vibration mitigation.
Innovation Solution
An electric machine is mounted coaxially downstream of the fan with a rotor coupled to the fan, and its stator is connected to a power electronic circuit using rigid electroconductive bars that run through IGV arms, providing a robust and efficient electrical connection while minimizing vibration transmission and aerodynamic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large diameter power harnesses are used to connect the electric machine to the power electronic circuit, then electrical connection is achieved, but the bending radii are too large for the compact environment and vibration transmission damages surrounding parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional flexible power harness (mechanical system) with a rigid electroconductive bar integrated into the structural framework. This substitution eliminates the need for large bending radii and vibration mitigation supports, while providing stable electrical connection and structural support simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid electroconductive bar serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connection between the electric machine and power electronic circuit, acts as a structural support element, and eliminates the need for separate vibration mitigation supports. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity
2Temperature
If the electric machine is integrated directly downstream of the fan, then optimal temperature conditions and close proximity to flow ducts are achieved, but mechanical integration and connection to power electronic circuit become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electroconductive bar with the existing IGV arm structure, combining the electrical connection function with the mechanical support structure. This integration simplifies the overall mechanical integration by utilizing existing structural elements rather than adding separate connection components
Solution Approach 2:
The IGV arm acts as an intermediary structure that facilitates both the mechanical support and electrical connection between the electric machine and the power electronic circuit. By routing the electroconductive bar through the IGV arm, the patent creates a natural transmission path that simplifies integration
3Object-affected harmful factors
If rigid electroconductive bars are used instead of harnesses, then vibration transmission is reduced and structural support is provided, but manufacturing and installation become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The electroconductive bar is segmented into multiple portions (first portion in IGV arm, second portion between envelopes) that can be manufactured and installed separately. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing each portion to be optimized independently and assembled into the final configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The electroconductive bar is nested within the existing IGV arm structure, utilizing the available space and structural framework. This nesting approach simplifies installation by integrating the electrical connection component within already-manufactured structural elements rather than requiring separate mounting operations
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 allows for optimal temperature conditions, reduced mechanical complexity, and increased power output, with the electric machine being located close to flow ducts for efficient cooling and reduced vibration risks, enhancing the turbomachine's performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the stator of the electric machine is connected to a power electronic circuit by at least one rigid electroconductive bar
Implementation Method 2
the fan being configured to generate a main gas flow, a portion of which flows into a primary annular duct of the gas generator to form a primary flow
Implementation Method 3
an electric machine is an electromechanical device based on the electromagnetism allowing the conversion of electrical energy into work or mechanical energy
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft turbine engine includes a gas generator having a longitudinal axis (A), a fan which is located at an upstream end of the gas generator and which is configured to rotate about the axis, and an electric machine which has a generally annular shape. The electric machine is mounted coaxially downstream of the fan and has a rotor which is coupled in terms of rotation to the fan, and a stator which is connected to an electronic power circuit by at least one rigid electroconductive bar.