Hybrid Constant Variable Frequency Starter Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft electrical generation systems using constant frequency generators require additional components like torque converters and pony motors to operate in start mode, which increase size, weight, and complexity, contradicting the need for minimization in practical applications.
Innovation Solution
A motor controller is used to control the constant frequency generator during both start and generate modes, eliminating the need for a torque converter, pony motor, and pony motor controller by utilizing an existing motor controller to provide the necessary motive force, thereby reducing system size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a constant frequency generator is used to operate in start mode, then the generator can provide motive force to start the turbine engine, but additional components (torque converter, pony motor, clutches) are required which increase system size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the constant frequency generator during both start mode and generate mode, eliminating the need for separate pony motor controller. The motor controller generates controlled frequencies to enable the generator to operate as a motor during starting, providing universal control capability across different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system (torque converter, pony motor, clutches) with an electrical control system. The motor controller uses electrical signals to control the constant frequency generator's operation during starting, substituting mechanical components with electronic control mechanisms that achieve the same starting function without the physical bulk and weight of mechanical parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a torque converter and pony motor are added to enable start mode operation, then the constant frequency generator can start the turbine engine, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor controller serves as a universal control device that manages the constant frequency generator in both start mode and generate mode. By designing the controller to handle multiple operational modes, the patent eliminates the need for separate pony motor controller and mechanical switching mechanisms, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary mechanical components (torque converter, pony motor, clutches) from the system. By removing these extraneous parts and retaining only the essential motor controller, the system achieves start mode capability with reduced complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional components are included in the constant frequency generator for start mode, then the generator can operate in both start and generate modes, but the size of the generator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The constant frequency generator is designed with universal capability to operate in both start mode and generate mode through electrical control alone. The motor controller enables the generator to function as a motor during starting and as a generator during power generation, eliminating the need for dual-purpose mechanical components and reducing the overall generator size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical starting mechanisms with an electrical control system. The motor controller generates controlled frequencies that enable the constant frequency generator to operate as a motor during starting, substituting mechanical components with electrical control and reducing the generator's physical dimensions.
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
This configuration allows the constant frequency generator to operate efficiently in both start and generate modes without additional components, enhancing system efficiency and minimizing size and weight, while maintaining the required power frequency.
Implementation Method 1
A system uses a constant frequency generator to generate electrical power. The system has a motor controller that controls the constant frequency generator while operating in a start mode.
Implementation Method 2
A constant frequency generator generates power having a constant frequency regardless of the rotor speed.
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation system and method uses a constant frequency generator to generate electrical power in a generate mode. When operating in a start mode, the constant frequency generator is controlled by a motor controller which at least partially controls another component while the system is in a generate mode. The power generation system and method can be implemented in, for example, an aircraft electrical architecture.