Generator Coupling Clutch Adapter Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing generator systems face design constraints due to the need for specialized bearings that can operate without lubrication when the generator is disengaged from the drive shaft, as oil scavenging and supply cease, leading to potential lubrication issues for certain bearing sets.
Innovation Solution
A generator coupling assembly that includes a clutch adapter radially retained by an output member, allowing selective engagement with a clutch member on the drive shaft, reducing the number of bearing sets required and eliminating the need for a bearing set that operates without lubrication, with the clutch adapter being a separable component that can be mounted independently of the generator housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the generator is disengaged from the drive shaft by the clutch, then the generator can be safely disconnected for maintenance or replacement, but the third set of bearings and input shaft continue to rotate without lubrication causing design constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the rotational support function into two separate systems: the first and second bearing sets support the generator rotor and drive shaft within the sealed generator environment, while the third bearing set supports the input shaft within the accessory gearbox environment. This segmentation allows each bearing set to operate in its appropriate lubrication environment independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch adapter serves as an intermediary component that couples the accessory gearbox output member to the generator drive shaft through the clutch mechanism. It allows rotational force to be transmitted from the accessory gearbox to the generator when engaged, and disconnects them when disengaged, preventing the input shaft from rotating during generator disconnection.
2Productivity
If the input shaft remains engaged with the accessory gearbox during generator disengagement, then rotational input can be maintained, but oil scavenging and supply cease causing lubrication issues
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the lubrication systems so that the accessory gearbox has its own independent oil scavenging and supply system that continues to operate when the generator is disengaged. The third bearing set and input shaft remain within the accessory gearbox environment, ensuring continuous lubrication availability independent of generator operation status.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the third bearing set is sealed within the generator, then it is protected from contamination, but it cannot receive lubrication when the generator is disengaged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the sealing and lubrication functions by placing the third bearing set and input shaft outside the sealed generator housing within the accessory gearbox. This allows the third bearing set to receive lubrication from the accessory gearbox oil system while the first and second bearing sets remain sealed within the generator environment.
Data Source
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AI summary
A generator coupling assembly includes an output housing (20), an output member (22) rotationally supported by the output housing, a generator (16) powered by the output member, and a clutch adapter (50). The generator includes a generator stator (30), a generator rotor (32) rotatably supported within the generator stator, a shaft (34) coupled to the generator rotor, and a clutch member (40) arranged on the shaft. The clutch adapter is coupled to and radially retained by the output member, and includes a clutching structure configured for selective engagement with the clutch member to engage the clutch member and the clutch adapter for co-rotation.