Hybrid touchdown bearing system
US7830055B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 28, 2007 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/16
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Upon operation, flywheel assemblies sand other such rotational mechanisms are released by mechanical backup bearings, which then normally remain disengaged until shutdown as the flywheel assembly is levitated by the axial magnetic field. However, either due to over heating of bearings, power failure or other stimuli, flywheels often suffer a phenomenon deemed as touchdown down from the levitation state. During this touchdown event, flywheels inherently lose rotational momentum, thus ceasing to generate and release power and often cause damage to components as well as casing. Enhancements developed herein, through the introduction of the instant secondary hybrid touchdown bearing system, allow flywheels and other such systems to retain rotational momentum and continue generation of energy. Further, the instant system negates damage to system components, as well as bearing wear.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.