Rectifier Device Positioning in AC Generator End Shield

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical machines face challenges in compact design and efficient cooling, leading to space constraints and reduced cooling effectiveness due to boundary layer effects and suboptimal placement of components.

Innovation Solution

The electrical machine design incorporates a pedestal and interconnection unit configuration that allows the rectifier device to be positioned closer to the bearing plate, minimizing boundary layer effects and maximizing the flow cross-section for improved cooling, while also using a U-shaped clamp for diode head wires to reduce space and enhance stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If the rectifier device is positioned closer to the bearing plate to reduce machine length, then space is saved, but boundary layer effects increase and cooling efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelength of electric machineVSAvoidboundary layer effects
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the rectifier device not only axially closer to the bearing plate but also radially outward toward the housing perimeter. This two-dimensional positioning strategy allows the rectifier device to occupy space that would otherwise be unused, reducing the axial length of the machine while maintaining adequate cooling airflow paths through the stator winding overhang region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a localized cooling channel between the rectifier device and the stator winding overhang, directing cooling air through this specific region. By optimizing the local airflow path in this particular area rather than relying on general cooling, the design achieves effective heat dissipation even with the compact arrangement that minimizes boundary layer interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Area of stationary object

If the platforms fill the niches completely to maximize opening size, then cooling flow is optimized, but structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening with nicheVSAvoidstability of end shield
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs asymmetric design in the positioning and shaping of platforms within niches. Rather than uniform filling, the platforms are strategically placed to optimize airflow paths while maintaining structural integrity. The asymmetric arrangement allows cooling air to flow efficiently through the created openings while the remaining structural portions of the end shield maintain their stabilizing function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Volume of moving object

If connection wire is positioned in the plane of the opening to save space, then machine compactness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace requirementVSAvoidpositioning precision of connection wire
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the connection wire with integrally formed loop or U-shaped clamp as an intermediary element that facilitates precise positioning. This specially designed connection component enables accurate alignment with diode head wires while maintaining the compact planar configuration, effectively mediating between the space-saving requirement and the precision positioning need.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration results in a more compact machine with enhanced cooling efficiency and stability, reducing space requirements and improving airflow for better heat dissipation.

Implementation Method 1

a cooling device (141), having a first heat sink (53), which has at least one receptacle (66) on which a current rectifier (147) is received

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

optimizing cooling... a flow cross-section undisturbed by boundary layers is as large as possible

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

boundary layer effects (flow) are reduced to the minimum possible and as a result a flow cross-section undisturbed by boundary layers is as large as possible, thereby optimizing cooling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBoundary layer: Boundary Layer

Data Source

PatentEP2478622B1Electrical motor
Publication Date: 2015.07.29 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP2478622B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2478622B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2478622B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to an electrical motor (10), in particular an alternating current generator, having a housing (13) that has at least one bearing shield (13.2), having a rectifier device (139) which has an interconnection unit (144) that interconnects the current rectifier (147, 150) to a bridge circuit, characterized in that the interconnection unit (144) has at least one platform (295) that is oriented to the bearing shield (13.2) and the opening (40) is separated by at least one brace (340) which holds a hub (337), wherein the opening (40) has a niche (346) that is incorporated on the radial outer edge (349) of the opening and wherein the platform (295) projects into said niche (346) and a connection wire (216) exiting the platform (295) extends into the opening (40).