Magnetohydrodynamic Electrolyte Circulation for Naval Generators

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electrochemical generators for naval vehicles are hindered by the weight and noise of mechanical pumps required for electrolyte circulation, which reduce energy efficiency and stealth capabilities.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a magnetohydrodynamic circulation system that utilizes a magnetic field to drive electrolyte circulation through the electrochemical block via the Lorentz force, eliminating the need for a mechanical pump and reducing noise.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a mechanical pump is used to circulate electrolyte, then electrolyte circulation is achieved, but the generator becomes heavier and noisier

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrolyte circulationVSAvoidgenerator weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical pump system with a magnetohydrodynamic circulation system that uses magnetic fields to drive electrolyte flow through the electrochemical block, eliminating the need for mechanical moving parts and thereby reducing weight and noise

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary to transfer momentum to the electrolyte, enabling circulation without direct mechanical contact or moving parts, thus solving the weight and noise issues associated with mechanical pumps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a mechanical pump is used to circulate electrolyte, then electrolyte circulation is achieved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrolyte circulationVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the energy-consuming mechanical pump with a magnetohydrodynamic system that uses magnetic fields to drive electrolyte circulation, significantly reducing parasitic energy consumption and improving overall generator efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetohydrodynamic circulation system enables the electrolyte to circulate autonomously under the influence of magnetic fields without requiring external mechanical pumping energy, making the system self-sufficient and more efficient

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a mechanical pump is used to circulate electrolyte, then electrolyte circulation is achieved, but noise level increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrolyte circulationVSAvoidnoise

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates mechanical pumps and their associated noise by using a magnetohydrodynamic circulation system that relies on magnetic fields rather than mechanical moving parts, thereby achieving silent operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic field serves as a noise-free intermediary to drive electrolyte circulation, replacing the noisy mechanical pump system and enabling discreet operation of the naval vehicle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution enhances energy efficiency and reduces noise, allowing for a lighter and more discreet naval vehicle with improved propulsion capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetohydrodynamic circulation system that utilizes a magnetic field to drive electrolyte circulation through the electrochemical block via the Lorentz force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentEP2704234B1Electrochemical generator for naval craft, naval craft and related electrical generation method

Publication Date: 2015.03.04 DCNS SA

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

This generator includes an electrochemical block (24) comprising at least one anode (40), at least one cathode (42), each cathode (42) and each anode (40) facing each other delimiting between them at least one intermediate channel (44) for the circulation of an electrolyte. The generator includes an electrolyte supply line (28) into the intermediate channel (44), an electrolyte discharge line (30) out of the intermediate channel (44), and a system (32) for circulating the electrolyte from the supply line (28), through the intermediate channel (44), to the discharge line (30); The circulation system (32) includes an assembly (50) for generating a magnetic field in each intermediate channel (44), suitable for causing the displacement of electrolyte at least partially by the effect of a Lorentz force during the circulation of an electric current between the anode (40) and the cathode (42).