Modular Hybrid Propulsion Bus Architecture for Scalable Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid power and propulsion systems require substantial integration of disparate components, resulting in rigid and unalterable configurations that cannot be easily scaled or modified to meet varying mission requirements, limiting their versatility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A modularized hybrid power and propulsion system with a common bus and controller that allows for plug-and-play connectivity of auxiliary engine assemblies, energy storage elements, and drive assemblies, enabling dynamic configuration based on mission parameters and allowing for the addition or removal of components as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hybrid power and propulsion systems integrate disparate components, then system functionality is achieved, but system rigidity increases and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into discrete, modular components (engine assemblies, energy storage elements, drive assemblies) that can be independently selected and connected. Each module interfaces through standardized connectors, allowing individual components to be added or removed without affecting the entire system, thereby enabling adaptability while managing complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The common bus architecture provides universal interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of components through standardized plug types. The system can configure different combinations of engine assemblies, energy storage elements, and drive assemblies using the same bus structure, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to various mission requirements without requiring complex custom integration for each configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid power systems use fixed configurations, then system reliability is improved, but system scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed configurations to dynamic, reconfigurable architectures. Components can be added or removed based on mission requirements, and the controller dynamically adjusts power distribution and system operation to maintain reliability in each configured state. The standardized interfaces ensure reliable connections while enabling scalable growth from single-module to multi-module configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are added or removed from the system, then system adaptability is improved, but connection reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The common bus acts as an intermediary structure with standardized connectors that mediate between modular components. These standardized interfaces ensure consistent mechanical and electrical connections, providing reliable coupling points that maintain connection integrity regardless of which specific modules are connected. The standardized plugs and receptacles ensure proper alignment, contact, and sealing, maintaining reliability while enabling flexible reconfiguration.
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 achieves scalability and modularity, enabling it to power multiple platforms of different types and sizes, optimizing component usage for specific missions without the need for re-engineering or manual re-programming, thereby enhancing versatility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a motor-generator configured to generate electricity
Implementation Method 2
a storage element configured to store the electricity
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A hybrid power and propulsion system (101) of a vehicle is provided and includes an engine assembly (110) coupled to a common bus (103) via a first plug type (111) and including a motor-generator (113) configured to generate electricity, a storage element (120) coupled to the common bus (103) via a second plug type (121) and configured to store the electricity, a drive assembly (130) coupled to the common bus (103) via a third plug type (131) and configured to receive the electricity from at least one of the engine assembly (110) or the storage element (120) to drive a propulsive fan (132) and a controller (105). The controller (105) is connected to the common bus (103) and controls a flow of the electricity between at least one of the engine assembly (110), the storage element (120) and the drive assembly (130). The common bus (103) is configured with additional connectors of the second and third plug types (121, 131) to enable removable connections of additional storage elements (120) and drive assemblies (130).