Transformer Support Structure With Fluid Passages for Coil Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooling methods for transformers are inefficient, leading to reduced performance, shorter lifespan, and higher operational costs due to inadequate heat transfer from coil windings and cores.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with elongated bodies and fluid passage openings is integrated between coil segments to enhance cooling by redirecting fluid flow, increasing velocity and distance, and reducing flow resistance, thereby improving heat transfer without additional material costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If cooling channels are introduced into transformer windings, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to simultaneously perform mechanical support function and cooling function by integrating fluid passage openings within its elongated body. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cooling channels in the windings, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the coil windings and the cooling fluid. By positioning the fluid passage openings in the support structure rather than in the windings themselves, the patent mediates the cooling process to achieve efficient heat transfer while preserving the simplicity of the winding structure
2Reliability
If cooling structures are added to improve heat transfer, then operational reliability is improved, but material costs and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure integrates multiple functions including mechanical support and cooling fluid passage, eliminating the need for additional separate cooling components. This reduces material costs and simplifies manufacturing while improving operational reliability through enhanced cooling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the support function and cooling function into a single integrated structure. By combining these functions in the support structure rather than using separate components, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity and material costs while achieving reliable cooling performance
3Temperature
If fluid flow velocity is increased to improve cooling, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but flow resistance and energy loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure implements localized cooling by positioning fluid passage openings at specific locations where heat generation is highest. This local quality approach enables efficient heat transfer at critical points without requiring high flow velocity throughout the entire system, thereby reducing overall flow resistance and energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cooling in a different dimension by placing fluid passage openings within the support structure rather than within the winding layers themselves. This dimensional change allows cooling fluid to access heat-generating regions more effectively, improving cooling efficiency without increasing flow resistance
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
The enhanced cooling effect increases the reliability and efficiency of transformer operation, reduces material costs, and minimizes heat buildup, while maintaining mechanical strength and design integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one fluid passage opening is configured to redirect a flow of coolant through the at least one support structure
Implementation Method 2
transfer heat away from the transformer to achieve a better performance, a longer lifetime of the transformer and lower operational costs
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a support structure (24) configured to be arranged at least partially in a space (22) provided between at least two coil segments (18, 20) of a transformer (10). The support structure (24) comprises an elongated body (25) having at least a first side (30) and a second side (32). The support structure (24) comprises at least one fluid passage opening (28) provided in at least a section of the elongated body (25). The at least one fluid passage opening (28) is configured to allow a fluid to pass therethrough from the first side (30) to the second side (32). The disclosure further relates to a transformer having a support structure (24) arranged in a space (22) between at least two coils segments (18, 20) of the transformer.