Multi-phase Generator with Configurable Rectifier Topology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical systems for vehicles face a lack of versatility in adapting to different power and voltage specifications, leading to increased complexity and cost burdens due to the need for separate generators and spare inventory for constant and variable speed generators.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a multi-phase generator and diode rectifier circuits configured in series and/or parallel configurations to produce a range of high voltage direct current (HVDC) outputs, allowing the same components to be used for both constant and variable speed generators, reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate constant speed and variable speed generators are used to meet different application requirements, then the system can accommodate different power and voltage specifications, but the device complexity and cost increase due to requiring two separate generator types and their respective spare inventories
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single generator system that can function as both constant speed and variable speed generators. The generator is equipped with a controller that can operate in two distinct modes: a first mode for constant speed operation and a second mode for variable speed operation. This allows one generator to replace two separate generator types, reducing system complexity and eliminating the need for separate spare inventories while maintaining adaptability to different power and voltage specifications
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate constant speed and variable speed generators are maintained for different applications, then the system can meet diverse power requirements, but the cost burden increases through engineering effort for designing two separate generators and maintaining separate spare inventory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces cost burden by implementing a universal generator design that can serve multiple applications. The single generator unit with dual operational modes eliminates the need for engineering two separate generator designs and reduces spare inventory requirements. The controller is configured to operate the generator in either a first mode or a second mode depending on application requirements, thereby achieving flexibility across different power specifications without the associated costs of maintaining separate generator systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If both constant speed and variable speed generators are accommodated in the electrical system, then the system can benefit from both types, but the complexity of electrical systems unduly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a controller that can dynamically switch between two operational modes. The controller is configured to operate the generator in a first mode during constant speed operation and in a second mode during variable speed operation. This dynamic capability allows a single generator to adapt to different operational requirements, effectively replacing two separate generator systems and thereby reducing electrical system complexity while maintaining the ability to utilize both constant and variable speed operational characteristics
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
Enables the production of a wide range of DC voltage levels from 270 VDC to over 3,000 VDC at high power levels, simplifying system architecture and increasing efficiency by using passive power conversion without active control.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the plurality of diode rectifier circuits comprises a plurality of diodes. The plurality of diode rectifier circuits is configured to receive the AC voltage output and convert the generated AC voltage output to a direct current (DC) voltage output.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for achieving a variety of selected direct current (DC) voltage outputs are disclosed. In one embodiment, a power generation system includes at least one multi-phase generator configured to generate an alternating current (AC) voltage. A plurality of diode rectifier circuits is coupled to the at least one multi-phase generator, which are configured to receive the AC voltage and convert the AC voltage to a DC voltage output. The power generation system includes configuration circuitry coupled to the plurality of diode rectifier circuits configured to configure the diode rectifier circuits in multiple configurations. For example, the configuration circuitry can configure the diode rectifier circuits in a series configuration to achieve a first DC voltage level, a parallel configuration to achieve a second DC voltage level, or a mixed series-parallel configuration to achieve a third DC voltage level.