Dual Torque Path Coupler With Fusible Disconnect for Jam Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical systems in hybrid power plants face risks of jamming and fire due to electric machine failures, particularly during short-circuiting, which can lead to mechanical device jamming and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional mechanical connection device with a free-wheel and dog clutch connection, featuring a fusible section and actuator, separates torque transmission paths to prevent jamming and disengage the electric machine in case of failure, ensuring safe operation in both motor and electrical power generation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single mechanical connection device is used to connect the electric machine to the mechanical device, then the structure is simple, but the risk of jamming increases and safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection device is segmented into two independent torque transmission paths: a first path with a first mechanical connection device and a second path with a second mechanical connection device. This segmentation allows each path to operate independently, so that if one path jams or fails, the other path can still function, thereby reducing the overall jamming risk while maintaining structural manageability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the mechanical connection devices by equipping each with independent actuators that can control engagement and disengagement states. This allows dynamic adjustment of torque transmission paths based on operational conditions, enabling the system to switch between paths to avoid jamming and maintain reliability
2Power
If the electric machine is directly connected to the mechanical device, then power transmission efficiency is high, but fire risk increases during short-circuiting
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection devices act as intermediary elements between the electric machine and the mechanical device. These intermediaries include fusible sections that can melt and disconnect the electrical connection in case of short-circuiting, thereby preventing fire while maintaining power transmission efficiency during normal operation through the mechanical torque transmission paths
Solution Approach 2:
The fusible sections are pre-designed with specific melting characteristics to provide beforehand cushioning against short-circuiting. When abnormal current flows occur, these fusible sections melt in advance to disconnect the electrical path, preventing the harmful thermal effects that could lead to fire, while not affecting normal power transmission
3Reliability
If a mechanical connection device with disengagement capability is used, then safety against jamming is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection devices are equipped with actuators that enable automatic engagement and disengagement based on operational conditions. The system can self-manage the torque transmission paths by activating or deactivating specific connection devices, providing jamming protection through automated control without requiring complex external intervention mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Each mechanical connection device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a torque transmission path and as a disengageable safety mechanism. The actuators integrated into these devices provide universal control capability for both engagement and disengagement operations, reducing overall system complexity by avoiding separate dedicated disengagement mechanisms
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
The solution effectively prevents mechanical device jamming and reduces fire risks by allowing separate torque transmission paths, enabling safe operation and easy installation within existing architectures, with power transmission capabilities of 250-300 kW in motor mode and 30-50 kW in electrical power generation mode.
Implementation Method 1
a free-wheel (35) interposed between the first shaft (25) and the second shaft (30) to only transmit engine torque from the first shaft (25) to the second shaft (30) when the motor mode is activated
Implementation Method 2
The connection device (20) comprises a fusible section (45) arranged within the coupler (40), the fusible section (45) being designed to melt in order to disconnect the first shaft (25) from the second shaft (30) in case of jamming of the electric machine (9) or in case of short-circuiting of the electric machine (9)
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a connection device having a first shaft and a second shaft, the connection device comprising a free-wheel interposed between the first shaft and the second shaft that can only transmit engine torque from the first shaft to the second shaft when a motor mode is activated. The connection device comprises a coupler, the coupler being provided with a fusible section, the connection device comprising a dog clutch connection that can only transmit engine torque from the coupler to the first shaft when an electrical power generation mode is activated.