Turbine Generator Rotor Position Sensing Without Airflow Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turbine generator assemblies face challenges in integrating control and monitoring means due to mechanical coupling constraints, particularly at high rotation speeds, which complicate air circulation and rotor stability.
Innovation Solution
A turbine generator assembly with an angular position detector comprising a target attached to the central element and an inductive sensor stationary relative to the stator, allowing for control and monitoring without obstructing air circulation or requiring substantial axial extension, using a motor-generator axially offset from the compressor and coupled via a central element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If control and monitoring means are integrated into the turbine generator assembly, then the assembly can be controlled and monitored during operation, but the mechanical coupling constraints and high rotation speeds complicate air circulation and rotor stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a target attached to the central element as an intermediary object that enables angular position detection without directly integrating complex control means into the rotating assembly. The inductive sensor detects the position of this target, providing control data through electromagnetic interaction rather than mechanical integration, thus maintaining rotor stability while enabling automation.
2Device complexity
If a target is attached to the central element for angular position detection, then the angular position can be determined simply, but the target may obstruct air circulation in the assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The target is designed with specific local characteristics: it is attached to the central element at a location and with dimensions that minimize its impact on air circulation while maintaining sufficient surface area for accurate inductive detection. The target's geometry and positioning are optimized to provide detection functionality without significantly obstructing the airflow path between rotor and stator.
3Measurement precision
If the rotor part of the assembly is extended axially to accommodate detection means, then the angular position can be detected, but the overall dimensions of the assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is merged with existing components of the assembly. The inductive sensor is positioned in the air gap between the rotor and stator, utilizing the existing magnetic field and space. The target is attached to the central element which is already part of the mechanical coupling, eliminating the need for separate axial extensions to accommodate detection means.
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
Enables precise control and monitoring of the assembly, preventing stalling, while maintaining rotor stability and efficient air circulation, even at high speeds up to 150,000 rpm, without increasing the assembly's overall dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive sensor stationary relative to a stator of the motor-generator... by being fixedly arranged in relation to and/or at the level of and/or on the stator, can be positioned in the immediate vicinity of the target, taking advantage of the rotation of the central element (and therefore of the target) to generate the currents useful for detecting the angular position of the central element
Data Source
AI summary
A turbine generator assembly for a power generation or cogeneration device. The assembly includes a turbine, a compressor and a motor-generator mechanically coupled by a central element. The assembly further includes an angular position detector of the central element in the form of a target attached to the end of the central element and an inductive sensor stationary relative to a stator of the motor-generator arranged to cooperate with the target.