Ten-Phase Auto Transformer Rectifier Unit for Shipboard Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transformer topologies for converting three-phase variable frequency AC to bipolar DC in shipboard and aircraft applications face challenges such as limited voltage output, increased weight and cost due to additional transformers, and reliability issues from common mode voltage components.
Innovation Solution
A transformer topology that converts three-phase AC to ten-phase AC with phase-shifted outputs, eliminating common mode voltage at the rectified output and reducing the size or eliminating common mode inductors, utilizing a delta configuration with multiple sub-primary and secondary windings to achieve a bipolar DC output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a higher input AC voltage is provided to increase motor controller output voltage, then the voltage output of motor controllers is improved, but the insulation level of the whole ship or aircraft must be increased and additional challenges like corona and high voltage spikes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rectification process into ten separate phases instead of the conventional three phases. By dividing the single rectification stage into multiple sequential phases, each handling a portion of the voltage conversion, the system achieves higher output voltage without requiring proportionally higher input voltage, thereby avoiding insulation and corona issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-phase system to a ten-phase system, adding temporal dimensionality to the rectification process. The ten phases are phase-shifted relative to each other, creating a multi-dimensional voltage waveform that enables higher DC output voltage from the same AC input voltage level.
2Power
If a step-up autotransformer is added before or after the motor controller to increase voltage output, then the voltage output of motor controllers is improved, but additional heavy magnetic components are added to the power generation system significantly increasing weight
Solution Approach 1:
The ten-phase transformer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides voltage transformation, phase shifting, and common mode rejection in a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate step-up autotransformers that would otherwise be required to achieve the same voltage boosting function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the voltage transformation and phase control functions into a single ten-phase transformer design. By combining what would traditionally require separate transformers and control circuits into one integrated unit, the overall weight and complexity are reduced while achieving the desired voltage output.
3Power
If additional step-up transformer is added to increase voltage output, then the voltage output of motor controllers is improved, but the device complexity and cost are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The rectification process is segmented into ten phases, each handled by dedicated circuitry within the transformer-rectifier unit. This segmentation allows for modular design and simplifies the overall system architecture compared to adding separate step-up transformers and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The ten-phase transformer-rectifier unit serves as a universal solution that simultaneously achieves voltage boosting, phase shifting, and common mode rejection. This multi-functional design replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components, reducing both device complexity and cost.
4Device complexity
If conventional three-phase rectifier is used, then the device complexity is kept simple, but common mode voltage components cause reliability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The ten-phase transformer design preliminarily eliminates common mode voltage components before they can affect system reliability. By structuring the transformer windings and phases to inherently cancel common mode voltages, the system prevents reliability issues rather than addressing them with additional filtering components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harmful effect of common mode voltages into a beneficial cancellation effect. By designing the ten-phase transformer with specific winding configurations and phase shifts, the common mode voltages that would normally cause reliability issues are transformed into a self-cancelling pattern, improving system reliability without additional components.
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 increases the voltage output of motor controllers without adding weight or cost, reduces common mode voltage, and enhances reliability by eliminating the need for additional transformers and smaller inductors, effectively addressing the limitations of existing designs.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer configured to receive a three-phase alternating current input and produce a ten-phase alternating current output
Implementation Method 2
a rectifier configured to receive the ten-phase alternating current output and output a bipolar direct current
Data Source
AI summary
An auto transformer rectifier unit (ATRU) is provided. The ATRU comprises a transformer configured to receive a three-phase alternating current input and produce a ten-phase alternating current output, and a rectifier configured to receive the ten-phase alternating current output and output a bipolar direct current.