Generator Arrangement with Shared Mechanical Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical systems with separate main generators and permanent magnet generators require multiple mechanical inputs, limiting the number of accessories that can be powered and increasing system complexity.
Innovation Solution
A generator arrangement where a main generator and a permanent magnet generator share a single mechanical input, with a disconnect mechanism allowing one generator to be disconnected without interrupting the other, enabling both to be driven as a single line replaceable unit and reducing the size of the accessory gearbox.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate main generator and permanent magnet generator with separate mechanical inputs are used, then reliability is improved through redundancy, but device complexity increases and the number of accessories that can be powered is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the main generator and permanent magnet generator into a single integrated assembly where both generators share a common mechanical input from the engine. The generators are mounted on the same output shaft, allowing them to be driven simultaneously without requiring separate mechanical inputs. This merging reduces system complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of having multiple generators.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated generator assembly serves multiple functions: it can operate with both generators simultaneously to power multiple accessories, can operate with only the permanent magnet generator if the main generator fails, and can operate with only the main generator if the permanent magnet generator fails. This multi-functionality maintains reliability while reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Reliability
If separate mechanical inputs are provided for main generator and permanent magnet generator, then each generator can operate independently for redundancy, but the accessory gearbox size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical input paths by mounting both generators on the same output shaft of the accessory gearbox. This eliminates the need for separate mechanical inputs and reduces the overall size of the accessory gearbox while maintaining the ability of each generator to operate independently through a disconnect mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrical generation function into two separate generators (main generator and permanent magnet generator) that share a common mechanical input. This segmentation allows independent operation of each generator through a disconnect mechanism while maintaining a compact single-input configuration that reduces accessory gearbox size.
3Power
If multiple separate generators are used, then power generation capacity is increased, but the number of line replaceable units increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple generators into a single line replaceable unit by integrating the main generator, permanent magnet generator, and their shared mechanical input into one assembly. This allows the entire power generation system to be replaced as a single unit, reducing maintenance complexity while maintaining high power generation capacity through the combined output of both generators.
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
Enables efficient power generation with the capability to drive multiple generators using a single mechanical input, allowing for continuous operation of one generator even if the other fails, and reduces the size and complexity of the accessory gearbox.
Implementation Method 1
Permanent magnet generators also receive mechanical power from the engine, typically through a permanent magnet generator input shaft, and convert the mechanical power into electrical power for electrical loads connected to the permanent magnet generator.
Implementation Method 2
Main generators typically receive mechanical power from an engine through a main generator input shaft. The mechanical power is converted to electrical power, which is provided to various electrical loads connected to the main generator.
Data Source
AI summary
A generator arrangement includes a housing with a mounting feature, a main generator with an outboard shaft arranged within the housing and axially offset from the mounting feature along a rotation axis, and a permanent magnet generator. The permanent magnet generator has an inboard shaft arranged within the housing between the main generator and the mounting feature. The outboard shaft is coupled to the inboard shaft to provide rotation to the main generator through the permanent magnet generator. Accessory gearboxes and methods of generating electrical power are also described.