Generator Torsional Damping via Electromagnetic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engines and other turbo-machinery experience torsional oscillations due to low mechanical damping in high power trains, which can lead to component damage and fatigue from excited natural frequencies, causing alternating mechanical torque.
Innovation Solution
A generator assembly with a damping module that couples to two generators and a drive train, receiving signals from load sensors to dynamically adjust damping gains and reduce torsional oscillations, thereby stabilizing the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high power trains are used to increase power output, then power capability is improved, but mechanical damping is reduced causing torsional oscillations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical damping mechanisms with an electrical damping system. The damping module converts mechanical torsional oscillations into electrical signals, processes them through control logic, and applies counteracting torques via electromagnetic interaction with the generator, thereby substituting a mechanical solution with an electrical control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping module acts as an intermediary between the mechanical drive train and the electrical load. It receives mechanical oscillation signals, processes them through control algorithms, and generates compensating electrical torques that are converted back to mechanical counter-torques, mediating the interaction between mechanical and electrical domains to eliminate torsional oscillations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If torsional oscillations are reduced through passive damping, then mechanical stability is improved, but system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical damping devices (such as viscous dampers, friction dampers, or inertial dampers) with a relatively simple electrical control system. The damping module uses existing sensors, processors, and electromagnetic actuators to achieve damping, avoiding the need for additional mechanical components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping module utilizes the existing generator and control system infrastructure to provide damping functionality. By processing signals from existing sensors and applying torques through the existing electromagnetic conversion system, it achieves damping without requiring separate dedicated mechanical damping components, thereby reducing system complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If torsional oscillations are reduced through passive damping, then component lifespan is improved, but system efficiency and power output are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces energy-dissipating mechanical damping systems with an electrical control system that converts oscillation energy into electrical energy. Instead of dissipating mechanical energy as heat through friction or viscosity, the system captures the oscillation energy, processes it electrically, and applies counter-torques that reduce oscillations while preserving the majority of the power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping module converts the harmful torsional oscillations into useful electrical signals and energy. By processing the oscillation signals through control algorithms and applying counteracting electromagnetic torques, it transforms the harmful mechanical vibrations into a controlled electrical interaction that protects components while maintaining system efficiency and power output.
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
The solution effectively reduces both common mode and differential mode torsional oscillations, enhancing mechanical stability and system efficiency, and extending the lifespan of components by minimizing oscillations and maintaining constant generator speed and torque.
Implementation Method 1
A damping module operably couples to a first generator and a second generator. The damping module is configured to receive a first signal indicative of a first load on the first generator and to receive a second signal indicative of a second load on the second generator and configured to reduce a torsional oscillation of the first and second generators.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for a generator assembly for a drive train such as a rotatable turbine engine assembly. The generator assembly includes at least first and second generators mechanically coupled to the drive train. First and second dampers are operably coupled to the first and second generators, respectively, to selectively damp the first and second generators. Damping the first and second generators can reduce or eliminate both common mode and differential mode torsional oscillations from the generators to the drive train.