Switchable Electric Machine Coupling for Dual-Spool Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern aircraft engines with multiple independent shafts require separate motors/generators for each spool, leading to inefficiencies and increased weight due to the need for multiple electric machines.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows a single electric machine to be shared between two independent engine spools using coupling mechanisms controlled by a motor controller, enabling flexible coupling and decoupling based on system mode, with gearboxes transferring rotational energy between the turbine engine and electrical machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate motors/generators are used for each spool, then each spool can operate independently, but the system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single electric machine is designed to serve multiple functions by being selectively coupled to different spools through coupling devices. The machine can operate as a generator for one spool, a motor for another spool, or serve both simultaneously in different operational modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated motors/generators for each spool and reducing overall system weight
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic coupling mechanisms that allow the electric machine to be mechanically connected or disconnected from different spools based on operational requirements. The coupling devices enable the system to transition between different operational modes (e.g., generator mode for one spool, motor mode for another), providing flexibility while maintaining independent spool operation capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate motors/generators are used for each spool, then each spool has dedicated power control, but the number of components and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single electric machine with multi-functional capability replaces multiple dedicated motors/generators. The machine can perform multiple roles (generator for high-pressure spool, motor for low-pressure spool, or vice versa) depending on system needs, reducing component count while maintaining adaptability through software-controlled coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Coupling devices act as intermediary mechanisms between the single electric machine and the multiple spools. These coupling devices enable flexible connection and disconnection, allowing the electric machine to interface with different spools as needed, thereby reducing the number of permanent connections and components required
3Weight of moving object
If a single electric machine is shared between spools, then weight and complexity are reduced, but mechanical coupling and decoupling mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into multiple independent coupling devices, each responsible for connecting the electric machine to a specific spool. This segmentation allows individual coupling/decoupling operations without affecting other connections, simplifying control and reducing the complexity of coordinated mechanical operations
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling devices serve as intermediary elements that simplify the mechanical interface between the single electric machine and multiple spools. By introducing these standardized coupling mechanisms, the system achieves flexible reconfiguration with relatively simple, modular components rather than complex custom mechanical linkages
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
Reduces weight and complexity by allowing a single electric machine to serve both spools, optimizing energy transfer and reducing the number of required machines.
Implementation Method 1
a first gearbox coupled to the first electrical machine; a first coupling device between the first gearbox and the turbine engine; a second gearbox; a second coupling device between the second gearbox and the turbine engine
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes: a first electrical machine; a motor controller device coupled to the first electrical machine, wherein the motor controller device is configured to convert first power generated by the first electrical machine or provide second power to the first electrical machine; and a set of coupling devices configured to mechanically couple or decouple the first electrical machine and a turbine engine based on a mode of the system. The set of coupling devices includes: a first gearbox coupled to the first electrical machine; a first coupling device between the first gearbox and the turbine engine; a second gearbox; a second coupling device between the second gearbox and the turbine engine; and a third coupling device between the first gearbox and the second gearbox.