Variable Frequency Transformer Parallel Rotary Units

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional variable frequency transformers (VFTs) are large, expensive, and require extensive infrastructure, making them difficult and costly to install in remote substation locations due to their massive size and vertical shaft design.

Innovation Solution

The development of a VFT comprising multiple smaller rotating machines connected in parallel, using industrial motor technology instead of hydro generator technology, with a control system to synchronize and regulate the rotary transformers, allowing for a more compact and manageable installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a single large rotary transformer with vertical shaft is used, then the VFT can convert AC power between grids, but the device becomes massive requiring tall buildings and extensive infrastructure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower conversion capabilityVSAvoidtransformer size

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides a single large rotary transformer into multiple smaller rotary transformers (typically three) that operate in parallel. Each smaller transformer handles a portion of the total power, collectively achieving the required power conversion capability while significantly reducing the size and weight of individual units, eliminating the need for tall buildings and extensive infrastructure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Power

If a single large rotary transformer with vertical shaft is used, then the VFT can convert AC power between grids, but the construction and installation costs become substantial

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower conversion capabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the large transformer into multiple smaller units that can be manufactured using standard industrial processes rather than specialized hydro generator technology. These modular units are easier to transport, install, and maintain, significantly reducing construction costs at remote substation locations while maintaining the required power conversion capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical hydro generator technology with industrial motor technology to drive the rotary transformers. This substitution simplifies the mechanical system, reduces complexity, and lowers both manufacturing and installation costs while achieving the same power conversion function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Volume of moving object

If multiple smaller rotary transformers are used, then the size and weight are reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransformer sizeVSAvoidnumber of transformers

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple smaller rotary transformers into a unified system with common controls and shared infrastructure. The transformers operate in parallel with synchronized control, functioning collectively as a single variable frequency transformer system, thereby reducing overall complexity compared to managing separate large transformers while maintaining reduced size and weight benefits

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 configuration reduces the size and weight of the transformers, enabling easier transportation and installation, lowering construction costs and eliminating the need for tall buildings, while maintaining the capability to convert AC power between grids efficiently.

Implementation Method 1

A variable frequency transformer converts the AC power from one power grid to a frequency, phase and voltage that is suitable for the AC power in the other power grid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A drive motor and drive system adjusts a rotational position of a rotor in the VFT relative to the VFT stator to control the magnitude, frequency, phase and direction of AC power flowing through the VFT

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8054011B2Variable frequency transformer having multiple horizontal rotary transformers with common controls and voltage infrastructure and method

Publication Date: 2011.11.08 GE INFRASTRUCTURE TECH LLC

AI summary

A variable frequency transformer including: a first parallel circuit including at least two of the rotary transformers arranged in parallel and having an isolating circuit breaker connected to a rotor winding of each of the rotary transformers, and a separate synchronizing circuit breaker connected to a stator winding in each of the rotary transformers in the first parallel circuit; a first main transformer having a first winding connectable to a first power grid and a secondary winding connectable to the isolating circuit breaker in the first parallel circuit; a second main transformer having a first winding connectable to a second power grid and a secondary winding connectable to each of the synchronizing circuit breakers in the first parallel circuit, and a control system operatively connected to each of the synchronizing circuit breakers, the isolating circuit breakers and the drive motors for each of the rotary transformers.