Solid-State Generator Eliminates Reverse Torque in Electric Turbofan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional generators require significant mechanical energy to overcome reverse torque, resulting in inefficiencies and increased energy consumption, which limits the potential for electrically powered aircraft propulsion.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state electric power generator with a non-rotating rotor that generates rotating magnetic poles to produce electric power without reverse torque, allowing for efficient energy generation and use in electric drive motors for aircraft propulsion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional generators are used to generate electrical power, then electrical energy can be produced, but significant mechanical energy is consumed to overcome reverse torque resulting in low efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the reverse torque component from the generator system. By designing the generator to operate without counter-torque reaction, the harmful energy loss is removed while maintaining power generation capability. This allows the generator to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy without the traditional 30-50% energy loss to reverse torque.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the generator by eliminating the reverse torque condition. This fundamental parameter change transforms the generator from a conventional design that requires overcoming magnetic resistance to a design that generates power through direct electromagnetic induction without counter-reaction, dramatically improving efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional generators with rotating rotors are used, then electrical power can be generated, but the mechanical complexity and energy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical rotating rotor system with a stationary rotor design. Instead of mechanically rotating the entire rotor assembly, the invention uses a stationary rotor with rotating magnetic fields generated by the stator, eliminating mechanical complexity while reducing energy requirements for rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional generator design by making the rotor stationary and the stator rotating in function. This inversion allows the magnetic field to rotate around a stationary rotor, eliminating the need for mechanical rotor rotation and associated energy losses while maintaining power generation capability.
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 solution enables the development of high-efficiency electric power generation systems that reduce energy requirements for aircraft propulsion, enabling electrically powered turbofan jet engines and propeller-driven aircraft without the need for fossil fuels, offering quieter and non-polluting operation.
Implementation Method 1
Michael Faraday discovered the operating principle of electromagnetic generators in the years 1831-1889. His observations were later reduced into a principle called Faraday's Law written by James Clerk Maxwell. The Law states that an electromagnetic force is generated in an electrical conductor that encircles a varying magnetic flux.
Implementation Method 2
The Law states that an electromagnetic force is generated in an electrical conductor that encircles a varying magnetic flux.
Data Source
AI summary
A power system for an aircraft engine provides rotational drive to propeller driven and turbofan jet engine powered aircraft by use of a propeller or fan drive motor. Electrical power is provided to the drive motor by a high efficiency electrical power generator with reduced electromagnetic drag or reverse torque. The electric generator utilizes a solid state rotor that does not rotate which allows for power generation without reverse torque or the usual energy required to rotate the rotor inside the stator of the generator. Only the magnetic poles of the disclosed rotor rotate to generate the power. The fan blades of the turbofan jet engine are driven by the electric drive motor in which the rotor is a part of the fan as well as the drive from the high pressure turbine.