Electromagnetic Coolant Pumping for Direct-Cooled Electric Windings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric machines face limitations in power output due to heat buildup in rotor and stator components, which is exacerbated by the need for separate coolant pumps that reduce efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An integrated electric machine with an electromagnetic pumping system that circulates a conductive fluid through direct cooled windings, eliminating the need for separate mechanical pumps and incorporating a heat exchanger to manage heat buildup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If separate mechanical pumps are used to circulate coolant through stator and rotor components, then heat removal capability is improved, but device complexity and efficiency are worsened due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coolant pumping function with the electromagnetic system by using the stator windings themselves as electromagnetic pump windings. The stator serves dual purposes: generating electromagnetic fields for motor/generator operation and simultaneously pumping conductive coolant through electromagnetic forces, eliminating the need for separate mechanical pumps and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stator windings perform multiple functions: they generate electromagnetic fields for power conversion and simultaneously act as electromagnetic pump windings to circulate coolant. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while maintaining effective heat removal capability.
2Temperature
If separate mechanical pumps are used to circulate coolant, then heat removal capability is improved, but efficiency is worsened due to mechanical losses and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical pumping systems with an electromagnetic pumping system. Instead of using mechanical impellers and motors to drive coolant circulation, the system uses electromagnetic forces generated by the stator windings to pump the conductive coolant, eliminating mechanical losses and improving overall efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic system serves itself by using the same stator windings that generate electromagnetic fields for power conversion to simultaneously pump the coolant. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate drive mechanisms and reduces energy losses.
3Temperature
If conventional cooling systems with separate pumps are used, then heat management is improved, but reliability is worsened due to potential coolant leaks and mechanical failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mechanical pumping components from the cooling system and replaces them with an electromagnetic pumping mechanism. This elimination of mechanical seals and moving parts in the pumping system removes potential failure points and prevents coolant leaks, improving reliability while maintaining effective heat management.
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
Enhances power density and efficiency by reducing maintenance needs and eliminating coolant leaks, while effectively managing heat through an integrated cooling system.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic pumping system in communication with the stator... pumping a conductive fluid through direct cooled windings of the stator by a number of electromagnetic pump windings
Implementation Method 2
absorbing heat in the conductive fluid from the direct cooled windings of the stator
Implementation Method 3
pumping the conductive fluid to a heat exchanger, and cooling the conductive fluid in the heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides an integrated electric machine. The integrated electric machine includes a stator, a rotor positioned within the stator, and an electromagnetic pumping system in communication with the stator.