Three-Phase Transformer Core Clamping Without Side Tie Rods

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical transformers face issues with structural vulnerability due to the use of side tie rods, which cause deformation and instability during transport and operation, and the absence of suitable tie rods for lifting, leading to stress on insulation and increased dimensions.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves positioning fastening means, such as tie rods, in the central area of the armatures, eliminating side tie rods and using transverse tie rods that do not overlap core joints, along with reinforcement profiles to enhance rigidity and stability, allowing for uniform stress distribution and easy lifting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If side tie rods are used to press the core, then the core pressing force is applied, but the armatures deform and the structure becomes unstable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecore pressing forceVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the harmful side tie rods from the armature structure and extracts only the essential core pressing function. The core pressing force is applied directly through the yokes without involving the armatures, thereby eliminating the deformation problem while maintaining the necessary pressing force on the core.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The yokes serve as an intermediary element that transfers the core pressing force directly without involving the armatures. By introducing this intermediate structure, the patent decouples the core pressing function from the armature support function, preventing structural deformation while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Force

If additional tie rods are inserted to support lifting weight, then lifting capacity is improved, but the core joints are altered and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting capacityVSAvoidtransformer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the lifting support function from the core structure by using dedicated lifting lugs on the armatures. This extraction prevents additional tie rods from being inserted into the core joints, thereby maintaining transformer efficiency while providing adequate lifting capacity through the armature-lug system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The armatures serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable lifting through integrated lugs, and maintain positioning during transport. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional specialized components that would interfere with core joints and reduce efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If the frame structure is simplified, then manufacturing is easier, but rigidity and stability during transport are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidframe rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The yokes perform multiple functions simultaneously: they magnetically connect the columns, provide a mounting surface for core pressing bolts, and serve as structural reinforcement for the frame. This multi-functionality maintains frame rigidity without adding complex components, preserving both ease of manufacture and structural strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the core pressing function with the yoke structure, merging two functions into a single integrated component. This consolidation simplifies the overall frame structure by eliminating separate pressing mechanisms while maintaining adequate rigidity through the yoke's inherent structural properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3751588B1Electric transformer
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 S E A SOC ELETTROMECCANICA ARZIGNANESE
  • EP3751588B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3751588B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3751588B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Described is an electrical transformer (100) operating with three-phase alternating current, comprising at least one primary winding (1) and at least one secondary winding (1), enclosing columns (2) of a ferromagnetic core, an upper yoke (31) and a lower yoke (32), placed above and below said columns (2) by means of joints cut at 45 degrees for their magnetic connection, and fixed to an upper armature (41) and a lower armature (42), respectively, characterised in that they comprise first housings (51), made on the upper yoke (31) and the lower yoke (32) and deigned to house first fastening means or tie rods (61) for pressing the core, second housings (52), made on the columns (2) near each of their ends and designed to house second fastening means or tie rods (62) for pressing the core, wherein said second housings (52) are positioned so as not to be aligned with said first housings (51) and so as not to overlap the joints between said columns (2) and said upper and lower yokes (31, 32).