Parallel Hybrid Propulsion Stator Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid aircraft propulsion systems suffer from efficiency losses and added weight due to complex systems requiring precise alignment and additional mounting components for coupling combustion engines with electric motors, leading to unnecessary complexity and vibration issues.
Innovation Solution
A parallel hybrid propulsion system with a mechanical link coupling the electric motor to the combustion engine, using spherical or elastomeric bearings to allow movement in rotational degrees of freedom while preventing stator rotation, thereby reducing the number of drive elements and mounting components, and minimizing vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex systems including gears, belts, and direct drive elements are used to couple the combustion engine with the electric motor, then the coupling is achieved, but the weight and device complexity increase due to additional mounting components and alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the combustion engine and electric motor into a single integrated propulsion system where both power sources share common mounting points and drive train components. The engine and motor are mounted together on the same engine mounts and drive the propeller through a unified transmission system, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The engine mounts serve multiple functions: they support the combustion engine, support the electric motor, and provide vibration isolation for both power sources. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated mounting components for the motor, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable coupling between the power sources and the propeller.
2Reliability
If complex systems including gears, belts, and direct drive elements are used to couple the combustion engine with the electric motor, then the coupling is achieved, but the weight increases due to additional mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the combustion engine and electric motor into a single integrated propulsion system where both power sources share common mounting points and drive train components. The engine and motor are mounted together on the same engine mounts and drive the propeller through a unified transmission system, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The engine mounts serve multiple functions: they support the combustion engine, support the electric motor, and provide vibration isolation for both power sources. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated mounting components for the motor, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable coupling between the power sources and the propeller.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment of the combustion engine shaft and the electric motor shaft is required, then the coupling accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase due to additional mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the combustion engine and electric motor into a single integrated propulsion system where both power sources share common mounting points and drive train components. The engine and motor are mounted together on the same engine mounts and drive the propeller through a unified transmission system, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The engine mounts serve multiple functions: they support the combustion engine, support the electric motor, and provide vibration isolation for both power sources. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated mounting components for the motor, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable coupling between the power sources and the propeller.
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 results in a lightweight, efficient propulsion system with reduced volume, allowing independent operation of electric and combustion systems for optimized propulsion, and simplifies the design by eliminating the need for heavy, complex alignment systems, thus enhancing overall performance and reducing weight and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the mechanical link may be coupled to each of the stator and the combustion engine via a spherical bearing
Implementation Method 2
The mechanical link may be coupled to each of the stator and the combustion engine via an elastomeric bearing
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling flight via a parallel hybrid aircraft having an electric propulsion system and a combustion propulsion system are disclosed. Exemplary implementations may include: a combustion propulsion system including a combustion engine; an electric propulsion system including a motor and an electric power source, wherein the motor comprises a stator, a rotor coupled to the engine shaft, and support bearings between the rotor and the stator; a mechanical link coupled to the stator and the combustion engine, wherein the mechanical link substantially prevents movement of the stator in a rotational degree of freedom; and a propeller coupled to the engine shaft, wherein the rotor is coupled to the engine shaft between the propeller and the combustion engine.