Insulated Rigid Bus Bar for Compact Aircraft Engine Power Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of high-power electric machines in aircraft turbomachines, particularly with high dilution ratios, faces challenges due to complex mechanical integration, temperature resistance, accessibility, and the need for reliable electrical connections over long distances, where traditional power harnesses with large bending radii are not compatible and prone to vibration issues.
Innovation Solution
A rigid electroconductive bar with a polygonal section and electrical insulation sheath, allowing for direct electrical connection between the electric machine and the electronic power circuit, providing a flexible and vibration-resistant solution that eliminates the need for special fixing means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional power harnesses are used for electrical connection, then connection flexibility is provided, but large bending radii are required and vibration resistance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into two parts: a rigid bar for structural support and small radius curvature, and a flexible harness for connection adaptability. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its properties - the rigid bar provides mechanical stability and small bending radius, while the harness provides connection flexibility without requiring large bending radii.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid bar acts as an intermediary component between the electric machine and the power electronics circuit. It serves as a stable mounting structure that can be rigidly fixed to the machine support, eliminating the need for the harness to provide structural support and allowing the harness to focus solely on electrical connection flexibility.
2Reliability
If traditional power harnesses are used for electrical connection, then connection is provided, but vibration resistance is poor and special fixing means are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the mechanical support function (handled by the rigid bar mounted with simple means) from the electrical connection function (handled by the harness), allowing each to be optimized independently for reliability and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid bar replaces the need for complex mechanical support structures that would be required if only a flexible harness were used. The bar can be rigidly fixed using simple mounting means, substituting the need for complex vibration-dampening fixtures.
3Strength
If rigid bars with small radii of curvature are used, then vibration resistance is improved and compact integration is achieved, but connection flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is divided into a rigid bar segment for mechanical strength and vibration resistance, and a flexible harness segment for connection adaptability. This allows the rigid bar to provide structural integrity with small bending radii while the harness provides the necessary connection flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid bar serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables small radius curvature for compact integration, and serves as a mounting structure for the harness. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve vibration resistance and compactness without sacrificing connection flexibility through the harness.
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 enables efficient and reliable electrical connection with small radii of curvature, ensuring continuous electrical flow and reduced vibration, thus improving the integration and maintenance of electric machines in turbomachines by allowing for a more compact and robust connection system.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical insulation sheath surrounding said body
Implementation Method 2
a bolt for fixing and electrically connecting that end
Implementation Method 3
one end fitted with a lug which is applied and tightened on said end of the bar, by means of said bolt
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~5E
AI summary
Disclosed is an electrically conductive rigid bar (80) for electrically connecting an electric machine (70) of an aircraft turbine engine, characterised in that it comprises: - an elongate body (80a) made from electrically conductive material having a polygonal cross-section greater than or equal to 50 mm², and - an electrical insulation sheath (80b) that surrounds the body, at least one of the longitudinal ends (84a) of the body not being covered by the sheath and comprising a through-hole (86) in which a bolt (88) for fastening and electrically connecting this end is mounted.