Reconfigurable Motor Connection Bars for Wide Speed Range

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional motor systems fail to efficiently operate over a wide speed and power range, particularly in applications like industrial drives, electrical vehicles, and wind power generation, due to limitations in design and cost effectiveness.

Innovation Solution

A reconfigurable motor system that dynamically adjusts the number of poles and/or phases through power electronics control, allowing for real-time changes in winding currents and phase relationships, enabling high performance across various operating conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional motor systems are used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the system cannot efficiently operate over a wide speed and power range

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating rangeVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of motor windings through switching devices that can change the number of active phases and pole pairs in real-time. This allows the motor to adapt its characteristics dynamically to match varying operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between fixed simplicity and operational versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The motor system is designed with a universal winding structure that can operate in multiple modes (different phase configurations and pole pairs) using the same physical windings. This multi-functionality enables a single motor to replace multiple specialized motors, achieving wide operating range without proportionally increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If reconfigurable motor system is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes operational parameters (number of active phases, pole pairs) to optimize energy efficiency at different operating points. By dynamically adjusting these parameters based on load and speed requirements, the motor maintains high efficiency across a wide range, justifying the control complexity through significant energy savings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor operational conditions and automatically adjust the winding configuration to maintain optimal efficiency. This closed-loop control ensures energy optimization while managing the complexity through automated decision-making rather than manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If reconfigurable motor system is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidwinding connection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The winding system is segmented into modular sections with standardized connection points. This segmentation allows for precise, repeatable connections at each segment interface while maintaining overall system flexibility. The modular approach simplifies manufacturing by breaking down the complex reconfiguration task into manageable, precision-controlled segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 reconfigurable motor system achieves improved energy efficiency, reliability, and reduced costs by optimizing performance and adaptability across a wide range of speed and power conditions, while maintaining operation even with failed components.

Implementation Method 1

The first magnetic field induces electric currents in the metal bars of the rotor. The induced current produces a second magnetic field in the rotor. The second magnetic field of the rotor reacts against the first magnetic field of the stator.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The second magnetic field of the rotor reacts against the first magnetic field of the stator. According to Lenz's Law, the rotor follows the rotating first magnetic field and generates a mechanical torque pulling the rotor into rotation.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS11075598B2Connection bars for motor system
Publication Date: 2021.07.27 QUANTEN TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US11075598B2 patent drawing
  • US11075598B2 patent drawing
  • US11075598B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device comprises a rotor magnetically coupled to a stator, a plurality of slots for accommodating a plurality of conductors, wherein the plurality of slots is evenly spaced, and each slot is configured to accommodate at least one conductor of the plurality of conductors, and wherein each conductor has a first end and a second end, and wherein the second end is configured to be coupled to a power converter and a plurality of connection apparatuses connected to first ends of the plurality of conductors.