Multi-phase Transformer Wye Topologies for Shipboard Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In shipboard and aircraft applications, increasing the voltage output of motor controllers without increasing the generator output AC voltage is challenging, as it leads to insulation level issues and additional weight with the use of step-up transformers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-phase transformer configuration with specific winding arrangements, including primary, secondary, and third windings, that receive and magnetically couple multi-phase input voltage to achieve higher output voltage with reduced weight and insulation requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a step-up transformer is added before or after the motor controller to increase output voltage, then the rectified DC voltage or output AC voltage is increased, but the overall weight of the power generation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the step-up transformer functionality directly into the auto-transformer rectifier unit by adding a third group of windings to the existing transformer structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate step-up transformers, achieving voltage increase without adding discrete heavy components to the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The auto-transformer rectifier unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides rectification, voltage transformation, and step-up capability all within a single device. The third group of windings enables the unit to simultaneously serve as both a rectifier and a step-up transformer, reducing overall system weight.
2Power
If the generator output AC voltage is increased to increase motor controller output voltage, then the output voltage is increased, but the insulation level requirements and challenges like corona and high voltage spikes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The third group of windings acts as an intermediary that enables voltage increase through magnetic coupling rather than direct generator voltage increase. By using electromagnetic induction through additional windings, the system achieves higher output voltage without subjecting the generator and its insulation to higher stress levels.
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 multi-phase transformer configuration effectively increases the output voltage of motor controllers without the need for higher input AC voltage or additional weight, addressing the limitations of existing solutions.
Implementation Method 1
Each secondary winding may be magnetically coupled to a primary winding. Each third winding may be magnetically coupled to a primary winding such that an output voltage at the second end of the third windings is higher than an output voltage at the second end of the secondary windings
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of multi-phase transformers are disclosed. For example, a transformer includes primary windings, secondary windings and third windings. Primary windings, secondary windings and third windings may include sub windings coupled to form junctions. Primary windings are coupled at ends to form a delta configuration. Secondary windings are coupled to primary windings. Third windings are coupled to primary windings and secondary windings. Secondary windings and the third windings may be magnetically coupled to primary windings. The outputs at second ends of third windings are greater than the outputs at the second ends of secondary windings. In some embodiments, the outputs at adjacent second ends of the third windings are substantially equal. In other embodiments, a phase angle difference of outputs at adjacent second ends of third windings is substantially equal. In some embodiments, the phase angle difference of outputs at adjacent second ends of secondary windings is substantially equal.