Transformer Support Structure Seismic Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transformers in power engineering are vulnerable to damage from earthquakes and seismic activities due to their rigid construction and high weight, which can lead to instability and damage during earth tremors and shocks.
Innovation Solution
A transformer support structure featuring a bottom element with longitudinal side edges and a cross bar reinforced by plate-like units aligned vertically above the side edges, enhancing the structural integrity and stability by distributing the weight and absorbing vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the transformer uses a rigid construction with high weight, then the structural strength and stability under normal conditions is improved, but the resistance to earthquake and seismic forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into modular components including bottom elements, cross bars, and reinforcement units that can work together to provide both strength and seismic resistance. The reinforcement units are positioned at specific locations (above longitudinal side edges) to create a segmented reinforcement pattern that enhances seismic performance without compromising overall structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement units extend in the vertical direction above the longitudinal side edges, adding a vertical dimension to the reinforcement strategy. This vertical extension helps distribute seismic forces more effectively through the structure, complementing the horizontal strength provided by the cross bars and bottom elements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the transformer is rigidly mounted and fixed, then the stability during operation is improved, but the vulnerability to earthquake damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement units are strategically positioned above the longitudinal side edges rather than uniformly distributed throughout the structure. This localized reinforcement approach provides enhanced seismic resistance at critical locations while maintaining operational stability throughout the entire structure. The cross bars run crosswise to the side edges, creating a localized reinforcement pattern that addresses seismic vulnerability without compromising overall operational stability.
3Strength
If reinforcement units are added to stiffen the cross bar, then the structural rigidity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement units are positioned only above the longitudinal side edges rather than covering the entire cross bar. This selective localization provides the necessary rigidity enhancement at critical stress points while minimizing the addition of structural complexity. The reinforcement units align with the side edges, creating a simple yet effective pattern that avoids unnecessary complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Transformer support structure (100) for mounting a transformer assembly comprising a bottom element (120) having a support surface (150) with a horizontal orientation including two longitudinal side edges (160) which delimit the support surface (150), wherein the longitudinal side edges (160) run parallel to each other in an y-direction; a cross bar (200) being supported on the support surface (150), the cross bar (200) runs crosswise to the longitudinal side edges (160); at least two reinforcement units (300) for reinforcing the cross bar (200), the at least two reinforcement units (300) extend over an outer front surface (240) of the cross bar (200) in a vertical direction, wherein the reinforcement units (300) are positioned above the longitudinal side edges (160) and are aligned with the longitudinal side edges (160).