Triboelectric Generator Plate Separation Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Triboelectric generators face challenges in efficiently managing the separation distance between rotating elements, leading to noise production and material deterioration due to excess contact, and require precise control of plate separation to optimize power and voltage output.

Innovation Solution

A system with a mechanism to control the distance between rotating elements based on their relative speed, utilizing self-regulating mechanisms such as spiral groove thrust bearings or centrifugal regulators to maintain optimal separation, allowing for efficient power generation without external mechatronic actuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the separation distance between rotating elements is not precisely controlled, then the device complexity is reduced, but noise production increases and material deterioration occurs due to excess contact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol mechanism complexityVSAvoidnoise and material wear

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-regulating mechanisms (spiral groove thrust bearings or centrifugal regulators) that automatically maintain optimal plate separation based on rotational speed without requiring external control systems. The centrifugal regulator uses centrifugal force to adjust the gap between plates, while spiral groove thrust bearings use hydrodynamic principles to maintain separation, allowing the system to self-correct and prevent harmful contact between rotating elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If external mechatronic actuation is used to control plate separation, then precise control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplate separation control precisionVSAvoidmechanatronic actuation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex external mechatronic actuation systems with passive mechanical self-regulating mechanisms. Instead of using motors, sensors, and control circuits to adjust plate separation, the invention uses centrifugal regulators and spiral groove thrust bearings that automatically maintain optimal gaps through purely mechanical means based on rotational dynamics and hydrodynamic principles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The self-regulating mechanisms automatically adjust and maintain plate separation based on the rotational speed of the elements, eliminating the need for external control systems. The centrifugal regulator and spiral groove thrust bearing work autonomously to prevent harmful contact while optimizing power generation, reducing both device complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If contact between rotating elements is excessive, then power generation efficiency may improve, but material deterioration and noise production increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation efficiencyVSAvoidmaterial lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the separation distance between rotating elements based on their rotational speed. At lower speeds, the elements are allowed closer proximity for efficient energy transfer, while at higher speeds, the separation increases to prevent harmful contact and material wear. This dynamic adjustment optimizes both power generation efficiency and material lifespan throughout the operating range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 approach enables precise control of plate separation, reducing noise and material wear while maintaining high power output and voltage efficiency, making the system suitable for integration into small consumer devices.

Implementation Method 1

The triboelectric effect (also known as triboelectric charging) is a contact-induced electrification in which a material becomes electrically charged after it is contacted with a different material through friction.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTriboelectric effect: Triboelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

If an electrical load is connected between electrodes deposited/placed at the backside of the two material surfaces, any further displacement of the sheets, either laterally or perpendicularly, will induce in response a current flow between the two electrodes. This is simply an example of electrostatic induction.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic induction: Electrostatic Induction

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Data Source

PatentUS11264920B2Energy generation system and method

Publication Date: 2022.03.01 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV

AI summary

The invention provides an energy generation system comprising a generator having charged mutually rotating plate elements, and comprising an integrated drive mechanism for precisely controlling a separation distance between the plates. The drive mechanism provides a separation which varies as a function of the speed of rotation, hence assimilating separation control within the natural operation of the device. Embodiments provide plates comprising self-generating bearings, both hydrodynamic gas and fluid bearings and centrifugal regulator solid bearings, the bearings providing a supporting force between the plates of a magnitude which increases as the rotational speed of the plates increases. Methods of energy generation are also provided.