Linear Generator Core Synchronization for Noise and Frame Stress

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Solution Overview

Problem

Operating two linear generators simultaneously can result in undesirable electrical and acoustic effects due to cyclic and non-constant output, leading to issues like constructive interference in noise emissions and increased acoustic noise peaks, as well as stress on shared frames and after-treatment equipment.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a control system that synchronizes the phase and frequency of two linear generators by adjusting apex positions, times, power output, and electromagnetic forces to achieve a desired phase offset, thereby minimizing acoustic noise and balancing peak flow rates through shared after-treatment equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If two linear generators are operated simultaneously, then power output is increased, but acoustic noise peaks increase due to constructive interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidacoustic noise peaks
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by operating two linear generators in alternating cycles, where one generator operates while the other is shut down or operated at reduced power. This periodic operation pattern prevents simultaneous operation that causes constructive interference, thereby reducing acoustic noise peaks while still achieving increased overall power output through coordinated cycling of both generators

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system performs preliminary action by predicting when acoustic noise peaks will occur based on the cyclic operation patterns of the generators. Before these peaks occur, the system proactively adjusts the operation of one or both generators to prevent the constructive interference that would cause excessive noise, rather than reacting after the noise problem arises

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Power

If two linear generators are operated simultaneously, then power output is increased, but stress on shared frames increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidstress on shared frames
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by coordinating the operation cycles of two linear generators so they do not both operate at peak power simultaneously. This staggered periodic operation reduces the cumulative stress on shared frames and mounting structures, while still achieving increased overall power output by utilizing both generators across different time periods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system applies beforehand cushioning by monitoring and predicting the operational cycles of both generators to prevent situations where their combined weight and vibrational forces would create excessive stress on shared frames. The system proactively adjusts operation to cushion against potential structural stress before it occurs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Power

If two linear generators are operated simultaneously, then power output is increased, but after-treatment equipment is overwhelmed by peak flow rates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidpeak flow rates
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by coordinating the exhaust cycles of two linear generators so that their exhaust flows do not peak simultaneously. This staggered periodic operation allows after-treatment equipment to process exhaust from one generator while the other is operating or shut down, preventing overwhelming peak flow rates while still achieving increased overall power output

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system performs preliminary action by predicting the exhaust flow patterns of both generators and coordinating their operation to prevent simultaneous peak exhaust flows. This proactive scheduling ensures after-treatment equipment is never overwhelmed, while still maximizing power output through coordinated cycling of both generators

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Object-generated harmful factors

If phase synchronization control is implemented, then acoustic noise is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacoustic noiseVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action as a relatively simple control strategy compared to continuous phase synchronization. The system uses predetermined operation cycles and coordinated shutdown periods for the two generators, which achieves acoustic noise reduction through straightforward temporal separation rather than complex real-time phase locking algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system applies self-service by using the inherent cyclic operation characteristics of the linear generators themselves to achieve noise reduction. The system leverages the natural periodic nature of generator operation and coordinates their cycles, rather than requiring complex external synchronization infrastructure or sophisticated control algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 synchronization reduces acoustic noise, minimizes stress on shared frames, and optimizes the use of after-treatment devices by ensuring that peak flow rates are balanced and predictable, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of linear generator systems.

Implementation Method 1

modifying an electromagnetic force generated by one or both linear generators

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12170501B2Core synchronization for linear generators
Publication Date: 2024.12.17 MAINSPRING ENERGY INC
  • US12170501B2 patent drawing
  • US12170501B2 patent drawing
  • US12170501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for controlling two or more linear generators each operating according to a repeated behavior to constitute a cycle. A control system utilizes control circuitry to determine a desired phase offset between operation cycles of a first linear generator and a second linear generator of the two or more linear generators. During operation, an actual phase offset between the first linear generator and the second linear generator is determined. The control circuitry of the control system is used to modify the operation of at least one of the first linear generator or the second linear generator to achieve the desired phase effect.