Hybrid Propulsion Generator Layout for Lower Weight and Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid propulsion systems incur increased weight and volume due to separate heat engines and electrical generators, which is undesirable for applications like aviation where weight and volume reduction is essential without compromising power or efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An integrated hybrid propulsion system that combines a heat engine and electrical generator, where the electrical power generator is disposed upstream of the gas generator and driven by a power turbine, with rotating members and conductive coils generating electricity without adding significant weight or volume, utilizing magnetic and non-magnetic materials to optimize power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If separate heat engine and generator are implemented, then power generation capability is achieved, but system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heat engine and electrical generator into a single integrated unit where the generator is disposed upstream of the gas generator and driven by the power turbine. This combination allows the system to generate both mechanical power and electrical power simultaneously using shared components, thereby achieving power generation capability without the weight penalty of completely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated hybrid propulsion system performs multiple functions: the power turbine drives both the output power shaft for mechanical power and the electrical power generator for electrical power. The generator itself serves dual purposes as both a compressor stage and an electrical generator, maximizing component utilization and reducing overall system weight.
2Power
If separate heat engine and generator are implemented, then power generation capability is achieved, but system volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heat engine and electrical generator into a single integrated unit where the generator is disposed upstream of the gas generator. This spatial integration allows both functions to occupy overlapping or adjacent volumes rather than requiring separate dedicated spaces, thereby reducing the overall system volume while maintaining full power generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator is nested within the propulsion system architecture such that it is disposed upstream of the gas generator and shares space with other system components. The rotating members of the generator are integrated into the existing shaft system, allowing the electrical generation function to be embedded within the mechanical power transmission path rather than adding external volume.
3Weight of moving object
If integrated system is used, then weight and volume are reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hybrid propulsion system is designed with modular segmentation where the generator is a distinct but integrated component disposed upstream of the gas generator. The rotating members, conductive coils, and magnetic portions are segmented into manageable assemblies that can be manufactured separately and then assembled into the integrated unit, reducing the manufacturing complexity of the overall integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator components serve multiple functions: the rotating members act as both compressor stages and electrical generator rotors, and the conductive coils serve both as electrical windings and structural elements. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the integrated architecture.
4Power
If magnetic portions are added to rotating members, then electrical generation efficiency is improved, but material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic portions are added only to specific rotating members that require them for effective electrical generation, rather than all rotating members. The conductive coils are strategically positioned to interact with these localized magnetic portions, creating efficient electromagnetic coupling where needed while minimizing overall magnetic material usage throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses composite construction where magnetic portions are integrated into the rotating members as distinct elements rather than requiring entirely magnetic construction. This allows optimization of magnetic material placement and quantity, using magnetic materials only where they provide the necessary electromagnetic function while combining them with other materials for structural and functional requirements.
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 integrated system effectively reduces weight and volume while maintaining power generation efficiency, improving current induction and reducing the impact on compressor surge margin, thus enhancing overall propulsion system performance.
Implementation Method 1
a gas generator, an electrical power generator disposed upstream of the gas generator and configured to be driven by a power turbine
Implementation Method 2
the stationary conductive member includes a plurality of conductive coils such that rotation of the one or more rotating members relative to the stationary conductive member generates a current
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid propulsion system extracts electrical power using a combined heat engine and electrical generator. The propulsion system includes a gas generator, an electrical power generator disposed upstream of the gas generator and configured to be driven by a power turbine, an output power shaft mated to the power turbine and extending through a central axis of the gas generator and power generator unit, an engine enclosure circumferentially surrounding the power generator, and a shroud disposed between the power generator and the engine enclosure. The electrical power generator includes at least one rotating member and a stationary conductive member. The at least one rotating member includes a magnetic portion, and rotation of the at least one rotating member relative to stationary conductive member generates a current transmissible by one or more coupled power output cables.