Integrated Piston Assembly With Fluid Bearing Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large vehicles require efficient power generation systems capable of operating under various conditions, including uneven terrain, while existing technologies for closed-cycle engines face challenges in optimizing energy conversion and fluid supply to bearing assemblies.
Innovation Solution
An integrated piston assembly for closed-cycle engines that includes a fluid bearing system with a secondary piston assembly and a pump chamber to supply fluid to the bearing assembly, enhancing energy conversion efficiency and reducing mechanical losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a traditional internal combustion engine is used to provide enough power for heavy loads, then the power requirement is met, but the engine size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the piston assembly with the bearing assembly into a single integrated unit. The piston assembly includes a piston, cylinder, and connecting rod, while the bearing assembly includes bearings supported on the piston assembly. This integration eliminates the need for separate bearing housings and support structures, reducing overall engine weight while maintaining power output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as both the power-generating component and the support structure for the bearings. The connecting rod is integrally formed with the piston, creating a multi-functional component that reduces the number of parts needed while maintaining structural integrity and power transmission capabilities.
2Power
If a traditional internal combustion engine is used to provide enough power for heavy loads, then the power requirement is met, but the engine volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the piston assembly with the bearing assembly eliminates separate housing structures and support components. The bearing assembly is directly supported on the piston assembly, removing the need for additional spatial allocation for separate bearing housings, thus reducing overall engine volume while maintaining power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing assembly is nested within or directly supported on the piston assembly structure. This nesting arrangement allows the bearings to be housed within the existing piston assembly volume rather than requiring additional external space, effectively reducing the total engine volume.
3Reliability
If separate bearing assemblies are used, then bearing support is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the piston assembly and bearing assembly into a single integrated unit. The bearings are directly supported on the piston assembly, eliminating the need for separate bearing housings, mounting structures, and associated fastening components. This reduces assembly complexity while ensuring reliable bearing support.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston assembly is designed to serve as both the power-generating component and the support structure for the bearings. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliable bearing support.
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 integrated piston assembly improves energy conversion efficiency and reduces mechanical losses, enabling reliable operation of closed-cycle engines in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
a heater body and chiller assembly, to generate thermal energy and convert it into electrical power
Implementation Method 2
generate thermal energy and convert it into electrical power
Implementation Method 3
supplying fluid to a bearing assembly of an electric machine
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 4
AI summary
A linear electric machine includes a shaft, a primary piston assembly operably coupled with the shaft, a stator assembly supporting the shaft and housing a load device, and a bearing assembly supporting an end of the shaft. The bearing assembly includes a bearing housing and a fluid bearing within the bearing housing. The bearing housing includes an opening for receiving the shaft therethrough. The linear electric machine also includes a secondary piston assembly formed integrally with the shaft and at least a portion of the bearing assembly for providing fluid to the bearing assembly.