Modular Gas Turbine Starter-Generator Architecture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine starter/generators (S/Gs) are bulky, leading to large mass and size issues, requiring substantial attachment means and complicating maintenance due to their integrated design.
Innovation Solution
A modular S/G architecture with separate generator and exciter modules, each with distinct mechanical coupling shafts, allowing for independent mounting and easy disassembly for maintenance, and incorporating a permanent magnet generator for reduced size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional integrated S/G design is used, then the structural integrity and mechanical strength are improved, but the mass and size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The S/G is divided into separate generator and exciter modules that can be independently mounted on the gearbox. Each module has its own shaft and coupling mechanism, allowing distributed mass reduction while maintaining functional integration through modular assembly
2Strength
If a traditional integrated S/G design is used, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the device complexity for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator and exciter are segmented into separate modules with independent mounting arrangements. This allows one module to be removed and serviced without disturbing the other module or the gearbox, significantly reducing maintenance complexity and downtime
Solution Approach 2:
The exciter module can be extracted and removed separately from the generator module via its own mounting flange and coupling mechanism. This extraction capability enables independent servicing of the exciter without affecting the generator assembly
3Weight of moving object
If separate module mounting is implemented, then the mass reduction is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While maintaining separate modules, the invention merges the mounting functions by providing each module with its own flange and coupling mechanism that interfaces with the gearbox. This standardized merging approach simplifies the overall assembly process despite the modular configuration
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 modular design reduces overhanging mass on the gearbox, facilitates easy maintenance by allowing separate module disassembly, and optimizes space usage while maintaining functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a permanent magnet generator having a rotor carrying permanent magnets and a stator forming an armature
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The starter/generator has a generating module (50) with a synchronous generator (10) placed in a case, and a shaft (54) rotatably connected to a rotor of the generator. An energizing module (70) has an energizer (20) placed in another case, and a shaft (74) rotatably connected to a rotor of the energizer. The shafts respectively project outside the cases and carry mechanical connecting units e.g. grooves. A harness (84) has a rectifier e.g. rotating diode bridge, and connects an armature (22) of the energizer to a field winding (12) of the starter/generator.