Generator Set Base Frame Helmholtz Resonators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing generator sets struggle to effectively attenuate noise generated by large internal combustion engines while minimizing space consumption, as prior solutions either consume extra space or are inefficient in noise reduction.

Innovation Solution

Integration of multiple Helmholtz resonator units into the common base frame of the generator set, which are tuned to specific frequencies, including the firing frequency and harmonics, with communication ports to directly absorb noise near the source, and a computer controller to optimize engine speed for enhanced noise attenuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If resonator chambers are added to attenuate noise, then noise attenuation is improved, but space consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenoise attenuationVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The resonator chambers are integrated into the base frame structure itself, merging the noise attenuation function with the structural support function. The base frame serves dual purposes: supporting the engine and generator, and providing the resonator chambers for noise reduction. This eliminates the need for separate, space-consuming resonator chambers while maintaining effective noise attenuation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The base frame is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the engine and generator, and it incorporates resonator chambers for noise attenuation. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to serve both mechanical support and acoustic protection roles, avoiding additional space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If noise attenuation measures are implemented, then noise reduction is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenoise reductionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The noise attenuation function is merged with the base frame structure, eliminating the need for separate complex noise control systems. The resonator chambers are built into the base frame as an integral part, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining effective noise reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The base frame structure itself provides the noise attenuation function through its integrated resonator chambers, rather than requiring external noise control systems. The structure serves itself by incorporating acoustic protection directly into its design, reducing overall system complexity.

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

Significantly improves noise attenuation in close proximity to the source without increasing space usage, effectively reducing noise levels both within and outside the building, while allowing for compact and adaptable installation.

Implementation Method 1

The resonator units (20) are Helmholtz resonators in which the resonator space (22) is arranged in communication with the surroundings via at least one neck (32) as a communication port (24). The resonator units (20) are tuned to attenuate noise at a frequency corresponding to the firing frequency of the internal combustion piston engine (10).

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHelmholtz resonance: Helmholtz Resonance

Data Source

PatentEP3864648B1A generator set
Publication Date: 2022.11.30 WARTSILA FINLAND OY
  • EP3864648B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3864648B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3864648B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Invention relates to a generator set (14) comprising an internal combustion piston engine (10), an electric generator (12) mechanically coupled with the internal combustion piston engine (10) so as to receive power to rotate the electric generator (12) and a common base frame (16) which the internal combustion piston engine and the electric generator (12) are supported on and attached to. The base frame (16) of the generator set (14) is provided with plurality of resonator units (20, 20') comprising a bordered resonator space (22) (22), which resonator space (22) is provided with at least one communication port (24) so as to allow communication between the resonator space (22) and its surroundings.(Fig. 1)