Magnetic Rotor Axial Alignment for Sliding Bearing Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary electric machines with sliding bearings face challenges in maintaining axial translational stability of the rotor under varying rotation, mechanical load, and temperature conditions, requiring a solution that is modular, versatile, and cost-effective while ensuring reliable axial alignment.
Innovation Solution
An axial alignment system comprising concentric first and second fixing rings with permanent magnet rings, which generate magnetic forces to stabilize the rotor axially, maintaining it centered around an ideal position, using ferromagnetic materials and fixing elements to integrate with the rotor and static parts of the machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetic thrust bearing with flux switching is used to control axial oscillations, then axial alignment reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic thrust bearing is segmented into modular components: a rotor collar with permanent magnets, stator cores with electromagnetic coils, and yokes. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance while maintaining axial alignment reliability through coordinated operation of the modular parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical bearing systems with a magnetic thrust bearing that uses electromagnetic fields for flux switching. This substitution eliminates the need for physical contact and mechanical adjustment mechanisms, reducing device complexity while improving reliability in maintaining axial alignment.
2Reliability
If magnetic thrust bearing with flux switching is used to control axial oscillations, then axial alignment reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmented design enables independent manufacturing of rotor collar, stator cores, and yokes using standard fabrication processes. This reduces tooling costs and allows for parallel production, lowering overall manufacturing cost while maintaining alignment reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes magnetic flux density, coil winding parameters, and permanent magnet arrangements to achieve reliable axial alignment at lower manufacturing costs. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves the required reliability without requiring expensive materials or complex manufacturing processes.
3Reliability
If rotor is designed to maintain axial stability under varying conditions, then axial alignment reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic thrust bearing employs dynamic flux switching through electromagnetic coils that respond to varying operational conditions. The system dynamically adjusts magnetic field strength and distribution to maintain axial alignment reliability across different rotation speeds, loads, and temperature conditions without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent magnets in the rotor collar generate a baseline magnetic field that automatically compensates for axial displacements. The electromagnetic coils provide supplementary flux switching that self-adjusts to maintain alignment, eliminating the need for external control systems or complex mechanical stabilization mechanisms.
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 system ensures axial alignment of the rotor by absorbing thrust and axial forces, maintaining the rotor centered, reducing manufacturing time and costs, and improving reliability across different operating conditions.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing magnetic attraction or repulsion forces to maintain axial stability by absorbing thrust and axial loads
Data Source
AI summary
An axial alignment system for a rotary electric machine rotor includes: at least one first fixing ring; at least one first permanent magnet ring; at least one second fixing ring; and at least one second permanent magnet ring.