Superconducting Switch With Ferrite Flux Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional superconducting systems for distributed propulsion in aircraft require novel electrical technology to manage high voltage and reduce weight, as current superconductors quench when critical temperature or magnetic field limits are exceeded, leading to inefficiencies in switching between high and low resistance states.
Innovation Solution
A high voltage superconductor switch comprising a superconductor within a magnetic circuit with ferrite pole pieces and a primary magnetic flux source, along with a selectively operable secondary magnetic flux source to disrupt or divert the magnetic field, and a reluctance switch to increase the magnetic reluctance, allowing for controlled switching between superconducting and quenched states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a conventional superconducting system is used for distributed propulsion, then weight reduction is achieved, but the system requires novel electrical technology to manage high voltage and switching between resistance states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electrical switching mechanisms with a superconducting switch that uses magnetic field control instead of mechanical or electronic switching components. The superconducting material transitions between zero-resistance and high-resistance states through magnetic field application, eliminating the need for complex electrical switches and contactors in high voltage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes changes in the superconducting material's physical parameters (resistance, magnetic field sensitivity) to achieve switching functionality. By controlling the magnetic field strength applied to the superconductor, the system can transition between operational states without requiring complex electrical control circuitry, thereby managing high voltage with simpler technology.
2Ease of operation
If superconductor critical limits are exceeded, then switching between high and low resistance states is achieved, but energy loss and inefficiency occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a flux guide structure that pre-positiones and concentrates magnetic flux lines before they reach the superconducting material. This preliminary magnetic field configuration allows for more efficient quenching with lower energy input, as the magnetic flux is already directed and concentrated at the optimal location, reducing the energy required to induce the resistance transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The flux guide acts as an intermediary between the magnetic field source and the superconducting material. It mediates the magnetic field distribution, concentrating and directing flux lines to enhance the quenching efficiency. This intermediary structure reduces the overall energy required for switching by optimizing the magnetic field interaction with the superconductor.
3Use of energy by moving object
If ferrite pole pieces are used in the magnetic circuit, then magnetic field concentration is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ferrite pole pieces integrated into the magnetic circuit, combining ferromagnetic properties with ceramic material characteristics. This composite approach concentrates magnetic flux lines effectively at the air gap while maintaining structural integrity. The ferrite material provides both magnetic conductivity for flux concentration and mechanical stability, achieving efficient magnetic field generation despite the complexity of working with ceramic materials.
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
Enables efficient high voltage switching with reduced energy requirements and enhanced reliability, suitable for distributed propulsion systems, providing isolation and failsafe mechanisms in high voltage electrical systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one primary magnetic flux source located within the circuit so as to provide a quenching magnetic field across the air gap via the ferrite pole pieces
Implementation Method 2
A superconductor conducts electricity without loss, that is, with zero electrical resistance. In order to be superconducting, current state of the art superconductor materials must be maintained below a critical temperature, current density and magnetic field.
Implementation Method 3
a selectively operable secondary magnetic flux source positioned to induce magnetic flux within the magnetic flux guide so as to disrupt or divert the magnetic flux generated by the primary magnetic source thereby reducing or removing the magnetic field produced across the air gap
Implementation Method 4
a reluctance switch which increases the magnetic reluctance of a portion of the magnetic circuit
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is a high voltage superconductor switch comprising: a length of superconductor having a switching portion located within an air gap; a magnetic circuit including at least one flux guide having ferrite pole pieces defining an air gap in which a switching portion of a superconductor can reside in use and at least one primary magnetic flux source located within the circuit so as to provide a quenching magnetic field across the air gap via the ferrite pole pieces.