Generator Rotor Balancing With Moveable Weights During Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotor balancing systems are unable to reduce vibrations in generator rotors in real-time, as they require physical changes to fixed weights, which are time-consuming and require the unit to be stopped.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic rotor shaft balancing system where a moveable weight is coupled to the rotor shaft, allowing it to be adjusted in real-time while the generator is operating, using a closed-loop control algorithm to monitor vibrations and adjust the weight's position accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed balancing weights are physically secured to the rotor shaft, then the rotor balancing can be achieved, but the unit must be stopped and additional time is required for any changes to the weights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static fixed weights into dynamic moveable weights that can be adjusted in real-time. The weight assembly includes a weight member that can be repositioned along the rotor shaft using an actuator mechanism, allowing the balancing configuration to be changed while the rotor is rotating, thus eliminating the need to stop the unit for weight adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through the automated control mechanism that monitors vibration levels and automatically adjusts the weight positions without requiring external intervention. The control system receives vibration signals, processes them to determine optimal weight positions, and actuates the weight assembly accordingly, enabling the rotor to self-balance during operation.
2Reliability
If fixed balancing weights are used on the rotor shaft, then the rotor can be balanced, but any change to the weights requires the unit to be stopped and physical adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static balancing weights into dynamic adjustable weights that can be repositioned during operation. The weight assembly incorporates an actuator mechanism that enables real-time adjustment of weight positions along the rotor shaft, maintaining balancing effectiveness while allowing continuous operation and improving overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous useful action by allowing the rotor to remain in operation while balancing adjustments are made. The moveable weight assembly can be repositioned during rotation, eliminating interruptions and maintaining continuous power generation or mechanical work, thus improving productivity without sacrificing balancing effectiveness.
3Loss of time
If moveable weight is coupled to the rotor shaft, then real-time vibration reduction is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic capability by coupling a moveable weight assembly to the rotor shaft that can be repositioned in real-time. This includes actuators, sensors, and control mechanisms that enable rapid response to vibration changes, achieving real-time vibration reduction despite the increased device complexity introduced by these additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by incorporating vibration sensors that continuously monitor rotor vibrations and feed this information to a control system. The control system processes the vibration data and automatically adjusts the weight positions accordingly, enabling real-time vibration reduction through a closed-loop control mechanism that manages the complexity through intelligent automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A generator rotor shaft balancing system is disclosed. The generator rotor shaft balancing system includes a generator that includes a rotor and a rotor shaft. A weight is coupled to the rotor shaft. The weight is dynamically moveable, while the rotor is operating, to facilitate reducing vibrations in the rotor shaft.