Multi-Configuration Transformer for Aircraft Generator Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft generator control systems require multiple distinct generator control units and transformers due to varying voltage and current outputs from permanent magnet generators, increasing system complexity and weight.
Innovation Solution
A generator control unit with a multi-configuration transformer, featuring a single secondary winding and multiple primary windings or taps, allowing for the use of a single generator control unit across multiple generators by adjusting the number of turns to match different voltage and current levels, reducing the need for multiple transformers and control units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple distinct generator control units are included for each generator, then the correct control power can be provided to each generator, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator control unit is designed with a multi-configuration transformer that can accommodate multiple permanent magnet generator types through selectable primary windings or taps. This universal design allows a single control unit to serve multiple generator configurations, eliminating the need for distinct control units for each generator type while maintaining proper control power provision.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer within the control unit features multiple primary windings or taps with different turn ratios, allowing the system to change electrical parameters (voltage ratios) to match different permanent magnet generator outputs. This parameter variability enables one control unit to adapt to multiple generator types without requiring multiple specialized units.
2Reliability
If multiple distinct transformers are included within each generator control unit, then the correct control power can be provided to each permanent magnet generator, but the weight carried by the aircraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transformer functions are merged into a single multi-configuration transformer. By combining multiple primary windings or taps into one transformer structure, the system provides the functionality of multiple distinct transformers while using only one physical transformer component, thereby reducing aircraft weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transformer is designed with universal capability to handle multiple permanent magnet generator configurations through its multi-configuration primary windings or taps. This multi-functional transformer replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized transformers, significantly reducing the total weight carried by the aircraft.
3Device complexity
If a standardized generator control unit is used across multiple generators, then system complexity and weight are reduced, but the ability to accommodate varied voltage and current outputs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized control unit incorporates a multi-configuration transformer with selectable primary windings or taps that have different turn ratios. This allows the transformer to change its electrical parameters to match the specific voltage and current characteristics of different permanent magnet generators, maintaining adaptability within a standardized unit design.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The ability to select different primary windings or taps allows the standardized control unit to adapt its transformation ratio dynamically to match different generator outputs, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized units.
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 enables the use of a standardized generator control unit across aircraft generators with varying power capabilities, reducing system complexity and weight while maintaining efficient power regulation and distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer having a multi-configuration primary winding and a single secondary winding
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
A generator control unit includes a plurality of permanent magnet generator (PMG) inputs (110,112,114), a transformer (120) including a multi-configuration input winding (122) and at least one output winding (124). Each PMG input in the plurality of PMG inputs is connected to the multi-configuration input winding at a corresponding input winding input.