Multi-Port Generator-Rectifier With Decoupled Windings for Low Ripple
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional three-phase generator-rectifier configurations suffer from phase coupling that leads to significant DC rectified output ripple, high conversion losses due to active rectifiers processing the entire output power, and complex control and alignment structures in axial-split machines.
Innovation Solution
An integrated multi-port generator-rectifier device with passive-rectifier windings on a common magnetic structure, serially connected coils with fractional-pole-pitch, and an active port, magnetically decoupling back emf phases to reduce ripple and eliminate the need for bulky filter capacitors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If overlapping coils are used in conventional three-phase generation-rectification configuration, then three phases are output with back emf displaced 120 degrees, but mutual inductance is comparable to self-inductance causing significant ripple in DC rectified output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional three-phase system into multiple independent single-phase systems, each with its own rectifier. By segmenting the power generation into separate phases that are magnetically decoupled, the system eliminates the mutual inductance problem while maintaining multi-phase power output capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a common DC bus as an intermediary that collects power from multiple independent single-phase generators. This intermediary structure allows each generator to operate independently without mutual inductance interference while achieving the equivalent of multi-phase power output through the common DC connection
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-port generator is combined with active rectifier for each port, then multiple phases are output, but entire output power is processed by active switches leading to high conversion losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different rectification methods to different phases based on local requirements. One phase uses active rectification for power factor correction and control, while the other phases use passive diode rectification for high-efficiency power processing. This local differentiation reduces overall conversion losses while maintaining multi-port adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses active rectification for only one phase (partial action) rather than all phases, sufficient for control and power factor correction purposes. The remaining phases use simpler passive rectification, reducing total conversion losses while maintaining the necessary adaptability of the multi-port system
3Adaptability or versatility
If axial-split machines with passive-rectifier ports are used, then multiple passive rectifier ports are provided, but complex bonding and alignment structures are required among different sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple single-phase generators with their respective rectifiers into a single integrated device. The common DC bus combines the outputs of all phases, eliminating the need for complex bonding and alignment structures between axially split sections while maintaining multi-port passive rectifier functionality
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
Achieves low DC voltage ripple of 1%, reduces conversion losses by 60%, and enhances power density, efficiency, and reliability by processing most power through passive diodes, while maintaining consistent DC-bus voltage across variable speeds.
Implementation Method 1
The passive-rectifier windings are provided from a plurality of passive-rectifier windings on a common, single magnetic structure and interact with a plurality of magnetic poles
Implementation Method 2
Coils in the passive rectifier windings are serially connected and have a pitch as that is a fraction of magnet pole pitch and a pattern to magnetically decouple back emf phases of the separate rectifiers
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated multi-port generator-rectifier device includes multiple passive output ports provided from a plurality of passive-rectifier windings on a common, single magnetic structure. The passive-rectifier windings interact with a plurality of magnetic poles. Coils in the passive rectifier windings are serially connected. Each of the passive rectifier windings has a pitch as that is a fraction of magnet pole pitch and a pattern to magnetically decouple back emf phases of the separate rectifiers. The device further includes an active port provided by an active rectifier.