Power Regulation Circuit for Distributed Propulsion Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current turboelectric distributed propulsion (TeDP) systems face inefficiencies and weight penalties due to reliance on either AC or DC electrical current distribution systems, with AC-DC-AC conversion systems being heavier and incurring losses, while purely AC systems lack precise thrust modulation for yaw control.
Innovation Solution
A distributed propulsion system utilizing both AC and DC electrical current distribution systems, where AC power is unregulated for bulk thrust and DC power is selectively regulated for yaw control, using a power regulation circuit with multiple current paths and power electronics to optimize energy use and reduce losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If AC-DC-AC conversion systems are used for electrical current distribution, then power regulation capability is improved, but system weight increases and energy losses occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical current distribution into two separate paths: an AC path for bulk power transmission and a DC path for regulated power distribution. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function, avoiding the need for full AC-DC-AC conversion while still providing power regulation capability where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different current types and regulation strategies to different parts of the system based on local requirements. The AC path serves areas requiring high power transmission, while the DC path serves areas requiring precise thrust modulation, such as yaw control propulsors.
2Ease of operation
If AC-DC-AC conversion systems are used for electrical current distribution, then power regulation capability is improved, but energy losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical current distribution into two separate paths: an AC path for bulk power transmission and a DC path for regulated power distribution. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function, avoiding the need for full AC-DC-AC conversion while still providing power regulation capability where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the necessary power regulation functionality from the AC system by creating a separate DC path for regulated distribution. This eliminates the need for energy-intensive AC-DC-AC conversion while maintaining power regulation capability for specific applications like yaw control.
3Weight of moving object
If purely AC systems are used for electrical current distribution, then system weight is reduced, but thrust modulation precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different current types and regulation strategies to different parts of the system based on local requirements. The AC path serves areas requiring high power transmission, while the DC path serves areas requiring precise thrust modulation, such as yaw control propulsors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple current paths with power electronics are used, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical current distribution into two separate paths: an AC path for bulk power transmission and a DC path for regulated power distribution. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific function, avoiding the need for full AC-DC-AC conversion while still providing power regulation capability where needed.
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 approach reduces weight, minimizes energy losses, and provides finer control over yaw thrust, enabling more efficient operation, longer range, and lower costs compared to traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first current path that includes a first power electronics circuit, a second current path that includes a second power electronics circuit
Implementation Method 2
Each propulsor may include a motor for driving a propeller or fan that rotates at a designated speed to propel a vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed propulsion system includes a first propulsor and a second propulsor, a first generator configured to generate a first AC current, and a second generator configured to generate a second AC current. The system includes a power regulation circuit. The power regulation circuit includes a first current path that includes a first power electronics circuit, a second current path that includes a second power electronics circuit, a third current path that bypasses the first and second power electronics circuits, and a fourth current path that bypasses the first and second power electronics circuits. The power regulation circuit also includes a plurality of switches configured to selectively couple each respective input to a respective selected output to cause a respective current to flow from the respective input to the respective selected output via one of the first current path, second current path, third current path, or fourth current path.