Short Circuit Stop Stud Locking Plate for Generator Stator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing generator designs face challenges in maintaining a consistent gap between the short circuit stop stud assembly and the stator winding support braces, which is crucial for controlling movement during normal and fault conditions, as the gap can diminish over time, requiring frequent readjustment and replacement of components like pantleg washers.

Innovation Solution

A positive locking device, such as a U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped locking plate, is introduced to securely lock the securing means onto the fasteners, allowing for adjustable and replaceable gaps between the short circuit stop stud assembly and the stator winding support braces, enabling reliable and cost-effective adjustment of the stop gaps without the need for complex reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a small gap is provided between the brace and the short circuit stop stud assembly to allow freedom of movement during normal operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the gap may diminish over time and require frequent readjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefreedom of movement during normal operationVSAvoidgap consistency over time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking plate is installed in advance to secure the fastener at the correct position before operation begins. This preliminary locking action ensures the gap remains consistent throughout the operational life of the generator, preventing the gap from diminishing over time while still allowing the intended freedom of movement during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the gap is reset after operation over time, then the reliability is improved, but the loss of time increases due to the need for readjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap consistencyVSAvoidtime for readjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The locking plate is installed in advance to secure the fastener at the correct position before operation begins. This preliminary locking action ensures the gap remains consistent throughout the operational life of the generator, preventing the need for readjustment and eliminating the time loss associated with resetting the gap after operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a positive locking device is introduced to secure the securing means, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking function is extracted as a separate, standalone locking plate component rather than being integrated into the existing fastener or brace assembly. This extraction allows for a simple, focused locking mechanism that provides reliable security without adding unnecessary complexity to the overall assembly. The locking plate works independently to secure the fastener at the correct position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS10686345B2Short circuit stop stud locking plate
Publication Date: 2020.06.16 SIEMENS ENERGY INC
  • US10686345B2 patent drawing
  • US10686345B2 patent drawing
  • US10686345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An assembly having a positive locking device is provided. The assembly includes a solid body having a through hole arranged to receive a fastener. A fastener is disposed in the through hole of the solid body and secured to the solid body using a securing means. The locking plate positively locks the securing means onto the fastener. A generator including the assembly as well as a method to set a short circuit stop gap between the assembly and a support brace support the stator winding is also provided.