GB2334385A - A linear generator assembly - Google Patents

A linear generator assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2334385A
GB2334385A GB9803016A GB9803016A GB2334385A GB 2334385 A GB2334385 A GB 2334385A GB 9803016 A GB9803016 A GB 9803016A GB 9803016 A GB9803016 A GB 9803016A GB 2334385 A GB2334385 A GB 2334385A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
modules
generator assembly
linear generator
assemblies
central module
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB9803016A
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GB9803016D0 (en
Inventor
Andrew Julian Burrows
Carl Charles Bourne
Martin Ranson
Christopher Mellors
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MG Rover Group Ltd
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MG Rover Group Ltd
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Publication date
Application filed by MG Rover Group Ltd filed Critical MG Rover Group Ltd
Priority to GB9803016A priority Critical patent/GB2334385A/en
Publication of GB9803016D0 publication Critical patent/GB9803016D0/en
Publication of GB2334385A publication Critical patent/GB2334385A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K6/00—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00
    • B60K6/20—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
    • B60K6/22—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs
    • B60K6/24—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the combustion engines
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K6/00—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00
    • B60K6/20—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
    • B60K6/22—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs
    • B60K6/26—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the motors or the generators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K6/00—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00
    • B60K6/20—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
    • B60K6/42—Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines ; Control systems therefor, i.e. systems controlling two or more prime movers, or controlling one of these prime movers and any of the transmission, drive or drive units Informative references: mechanical gearings with secondary electric drive F16H3/72; arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with the dynamo-electric machine H02K7/00; machines comprising structurally interrelated motor and generator parts H02K51/00; dynamo-electric machines not otherwise provided for in H02K see H02K99/00 the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by the architecture of the hybrid electric vehicle
    • B60K6/46—Series type
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
    • B60L50/00—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle
    • B60L50/50—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells
    • B60L50/60—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
    • B60L50/61—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries by batteries charged by engine-driven generators, e.g. series hybrid electric vehicles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
    • H02K7/00—Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
    • H02K7/18—Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g. with turbines
    • H02K7/1869—Linear generators; sectional generators
    • H02K7/1876—Linear generators; sectional generators with reciprocating, linearly oscillating or vibrating parts
    • H02K7/1884—Linear generators; sectional generators with reciprocating, linearly oscillating or vibrating parts structurally associated with free piston engines
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
    • B60L2270/00—Problem solutions or means not otherwise provided for
    • B60L2270/10—Emission reduction
    • B60L2270/14—Emission reduction of noise
    • B60L2270/145—Structure borne vibrations
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
    • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
    • Y02T10/62—Hybrid vehicles
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
    • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
    • Y02T10/64—Electric machine technologies in electromobility
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
    • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
    • Y02T10/70—Energy storage systems for electromobility, e.g. batteries

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Connection Of Motors, Electrical Generators, Mechanical Devices, And The Like (AREA)

Abstract

A linear generator assembly 10 having two or more generator modules is disclosed. Each module 12, 14 comprises a pair of horizontally opposed internal combustion cylinder assemblies 24, 26, 28, 30 which are arranged to reciprocate linearly means for generating electricity 16, 18. The modules 12, 14 are positioned in a fixed relationship to each other such that the reaction forces generated in the modules 12, 14 are at all times substantially equal and opposite between the modules 12, 14, in order to reduce the mechanical vibration and the resultant turning moment of the generator assembly 10.

Description

A Linear Generator Assemblv This invention relates to linear generator assemblies and in particular to a linear generator assembly suitable for use in a vehicle.
Linear generator assemblies have been proposed in the prior art, for example in GB 1448879 and in GB 1463654. To date, no such linear generator assembly has been adapted for use in a production vehicle. One problem with the use of linear generator assemblies in vehicles which has not been addressed by the prior art, is the reduction of mechanical vibrations of the assemblies without the creation of a resultant turning moment on the assembly which might produce undesirable reactions at the point where the assembly is mounted to the vehicle.
An object of this invention is to provide an improved linear generator assembly and a vehicle including such an improved linear generator assembly.
According to the invention there is provided a linear generator assembly having two or more generator modules, each module comprising a pair of coaxially opposed internal combustion cylinder assemblies arranged to reciprocate linearly means for generating electricity, wherein the modules are positioned in a fixed relationship to each other such that the reaction forces generated in the modules are at all times substantially equal and opposite between the modules, whereby the mechanical vibration and the resultant turning moment of the generator assembly is reduced. The internal combustion cylinder assemblies may, for example, be horizontally or vertically opposed.
The linear generator assembly may include a pair of modules positioned coaxially and arranged to operate substantially in anti-phase to each other.
Advantageously, the modules may be positioned substantially end-to-end.
In a first modification to the invention, the linear generator assembly may comprise a pair of outer modules arranged outwardly of a central module, the modules all being in line with each other and the outer modules being arranged to operate substantially in phase with each other and substantially in anti-phase to the central module, such that the reaction forces generated by the outer modules are substantially equal and opposite to the reaction forces generated by the central module.
The internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the central module may have piston assemblies which are larger than the associated piston assemblies of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the outer modules, such that the resultant displacement of the central module substantially equals the combined displacement of the outer modules.
The linear generator assembly may further comprise means arranged to control the supply of a combustion mixture supplied to the internal combustion cylinder assemblies such that, during combustion of the mixture, the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies of the outer modules is substantially equal to the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies of the inner module, whereby the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the central module is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules.
Alternatively, the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the central module may be higher than the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the outer modules, in order to ensure that the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the central module is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules.
In a second modification to the invention, the linear generator assembly may comprise a pair of outer modules arranged outwardly of a pair of inner modules, the modules all being in line with each other and the outer modules being arranged to operate substantially in phase with each other and substantially in anti-phase to the inner modules, whereby the reaction forces generated by the outer modules are substantially equal and opposite to the reaction forces generated by the inner modules and synchronisation of either or both of the ignition and combustion between the modules ensures that the reaction forces therebetween are substantially balanced.
The invention also provides a hybrid vehicle including a linear generator assembly according to the invention and the linear generator assembly may comprise part of a series powertrain. The linear generator assembly may provide electrical power substantially directly to a traction motor, whereby a battery is not used to support the supply of electrical power to the traction motor.
The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a linear generator assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a linear generator assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a linear generator assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a powertrain of a hybrid vehicle typical of the prior art; and Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a powertrain of a hybrid vehicle including a linear generator assembly according to the invention.
Referring to Figure 1, a linear generator assembly 10 comprises first and second generator modules 12, 14. Each module 12, 14 is of the same construction and comprises a respective generator 16, 18 which is arranged to generate electricity when a moving portion 20, 22 is reciprocated linearly.
The modules 12, 14 further comprise two-stroke internal combustion cylinder assemblies which are grouped in pairs (24, 26), (28, 30) and are coaxially opposed about their respective generators 16, 18. In this particular example the cylinder assemblies (24, 26), (28, 30) of each module 12, 14 are horizontally opposed, but they could also be opposed vertically and operate in a similar manner.
Each cylinder assembly 24, 26, 28, 30 further comprises a respective piston 240, 260, 280, 300 which is connected directly to the associated moving portion 20, 22 by a respective connecting rod 242, 262, 282, 302.
The pistons 240, 260 in the cylinder assembly pair (24, 26) for the first module 12 are arranged to operate in anti-phase to each other in a manner similar to that known from GB 1463654, so as to reciprocate their moving portion 20.
The pistons in the cylinder pair (28, 30) for the second module 14 also operate in anti-phase to each other in like manner, so as to reciprocate their moving portion 22.
The first and second modules 12, 14 are positioned coaxially and end-toend, being joined at their end facing cylinder assemblies 26, 28.
The modules 12, 14 are arranged to reciprocate in anti-phase to each other so that the compression and combustion forces generated in each of the modules 12, 14 are at all times substantially equal and opposite between the modules, such that the forces cancel each other out and such that no resultant turning moment is produced by the assembly 10.
Referring now to Figure 2, a linear generator assembly 40 comprises a series of four generator modules 42, 44, 46, 48 which are of the same construction as the modules 12, 14 of Figure 1.
The modules 42, 44, 46, 48 are arranged in line with each other, the two outer modules 42, 48 being arranged to operate in phase with each other and in anti-phase to the inner modules 44, 46 such that the compression and combustion forces generated by the outer modules 42, 48 are equal and opposite to the compression and combustion forces generated by the inner modules 44, 48.
Synchronisation of the ignition and combustion between the outer 42, 48 and inner 44, 46 modules ensures that the reaction forces F1, F2 generated between the modules forming the assembly 40 cancel each other out, with no resultant turning moment being generated by the assembly 40.
Referring now to Figure 3, a linear generator assembly 50 comprises a series of three generator modules 52, 54, 56 which are arranged in line with each other, the two outer modules 52, 56 being arranged to operate in phase with each other and in anti-phase to the inner module 54.
The two outer modules 52, 56 are of the same construction as the modules 12, 14 of Figure 1. The central module 54 is of similar construction to the outer modules 52, 56 but has cylinder assemblies 58, 60 with associated pistons 580, 600 which are larger than the piston assemblies of the outer modules 52, 56 such that the resultant displacement of the inner module 54 equals the combined displacement of the outer modules 52, 56.
Means (not shown) are provided to control the supply of the combustion mixture to the cylinder assemblies of the modules 52, 54, 56 such that, during combustion of the mixture, the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies of the outer modules 52, 56 is substantially equal to the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies 580, 600 of the inner module 54, in order to ensure that the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies 580, 600 by combustion in the central module 54 is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules 52, 56 by the combustion associated therewith.
In the alternative, the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies 58, 60 of the central module 54 is made higher than the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the outer modules 52, 56, in order to ensure that the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies 580, 600 of the central module 54 is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules 52, 56.
In this manner, the reaction forces F3, F4 generated between the outer modules 52, 56 and the inner module 54 cancel each other out with no resultant turning moment being generated by the assembly 40.
The configurations of the modules 10, 40, 50 in the three embodiments described above result in minimal vibration and improved balance of the linear generator assembly with no resultant turning moment being generated, which in turn simplifies the mounting arrangements of the assemblies. This feature ensures that they are suitable for use in a vehicle and provides an improvement over the noise, vibration and harmonic performance of a conventional vehicle engine installation.
A powertrain 70 for a hybrid vehicle typical of the prior art is shown in figure 4 and comprises a known internal combustion engine 72 which drives a generator 74 to produce electrical energy. The electrical energy is used to power a motor 76 and transmission 78 through a motor power regulator 80 either directly or by storing the energy in a battery 82 for use later. The use of some existing batteries as an energy store can have disadvantages due to their relatively poor energy density, and hence high mass, and the efficiency losses involved in their charging and discharging.
A powertrain 100 for use in a series hybrid vehicle is shown with particular reference to figure 5 and includes a linear generator assembly 40 according to the second embodiment of the invention. The power output of the linear generator assembly 40 is electrical, is regulated by an engine power regulator 102 and thus dispenses with both the need for a separate generator and with the need for a battery for storage or traction. The linear generator assembly 40 powers a traction motor 104 and transmission 106 through a motor power regulator 108. Transmitting the power through a cable rather than by mechanical means allows considerable packaging freedom.
The mechanical simplicity of the linear generator assembly allows it to run at higher speeds than a conventional engine using a piston and slider crank arrangement, which results in increased power density for the linear generator assembly and results in a smaller power unit for a comparable power output. This means, however, that the assembly may operate more efficiently at a controlled speed or load, in which case it might prove advantageous to use a battery as an energy buffer store.
The embodiments described above employ two-stroke internal combustion cylinder assemblies, which could be replaced by any cylinder assembly suitable for reciprocating the generators.

Claims (15)

  1. CLAIMS 1. A linear generator assembly having two or more generator modules, each module comprising a pair of co-axially opposed internal combustion cylinder assemblies arranged to reciprocate linearly means for generating electricity, wherein the modules are positioned in a fixed relationship to each other such that the reaction forces generated in the modules are at all times substantially equal and opposite between the modules, whereby the mechanical vibration and the resultant turning moment of the generator assembly is reduced.
  2. 2. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 1, including a pair of modules positioned coaxially and arranged to operate substantially in anti-phase to each other.
  3. 3. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 2, wherein the modules are positioned substantially end-to-end.
  4. 4. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 1, comprising a pair of outer modules arranged outwardly of a central module, the modules all being in line with each other and the outer modules being arranged to operate substantially in phase with each other and substantially in anti-phase to the central module, such that the reaction forces generated between the outer modules and the central module are substantially balanced.
  5. 5. A liner generator assembly according to Claim 4, the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the central module having piston assemblies which are larger than the associated piston assemblies of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the outer modules, such that the resultant displacement of the central module substantially equals the combined displacement of the outer modules.
  6. 6. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 5, further comprising means arranged to control the supply of a combustion mixture supplied to the internal combustion cylinder assemblies such that, during combustion of the mixture, the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies of the outer modules is substantially equal to the pressure exerted on the piston assemblies of the inner module, whereby the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the central module is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules.
  7. 7. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 5, wherein the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the central module is higher than the compression ratio of the internal combustion cylinder assemblies of the outer modules, in order to ensure that the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the central module is substantially equal and opposite to the total momentum imparted into the piston assemblies of the outer modules.
  8. 8. A linear generator assembly according to Claim 1, comprising a pair of outer modules arranged outwardly of a pair of inner modules, the modules all being in line with each other and the outer modules being arranged to operate substantially in phase with each other and substantially in anti-phase to the inner modules, whereby the reaction forces generated by the outer modules are substantially equal and opposite to the reaction forces generated by the inner modules and synchronisation of either or both of the ignition and combustion between the modules ensures that the reaction forces therebetween are substantially balanced.
  9. 9. A linear generator assembly substantially as described herein with reference to Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings.
  10. 10. A linear generator assembly substantially as described herein with reference to Figure 2 of the accompanying drawings.
  11. 11. A linear generator assembly substantially as described herein with reference to Figure 3 of the accompanying drawings.
  12. 12. A hybrid vehicle including a linear generator assembly according to any preceding claim.
  13. 13. A hybrid vehicle according to Claim 12, wherein the linear generator assembly comprises part of a series powertrain.
  14. 14. A hybrid vehicle according to Claim 13, the linear generator assembly providing electrical power substantially directly to a traction motor, whereby a battery is not used to support the supply of electrical power to the traction motor.
  15. 15. A hybrid vehicle substantially as described herein with reference to Figure 5 of the accompanying drawings.
GB9803016A 1998-02-12 1998-02-12 A linear generator assembly Withdrawn GB2334385A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB9803016A GB2334385A (en) 1998-02-12 1998-02-12 A linear generator assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB9803016A GB2334385A (en) 1998-02-12 1998-02-12 A linear generator assembly

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GB2334385A true GB2334385A (en) 1999-08-18

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Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2003091556A1 (en) * 2002-04-25 2003-11-06 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free-piston device provided with an electric linear drive
US6759755B2 (en) 2000-01-28 2004-07-06 Clavis Technology As Energy converter
US7082909B2 (en) 2002-04-25 2006-08-01 Deutsches Zentrum Fur Luft- Und Raumfahrt E.V. Free-piston device with electric linear drive
DE102008053069A1 (en) * 2008-10-24 2010-05-06 Umc Universal Motor Corporation Gmbh Free piston engine with variable stroke and method of operating a free piston engine
WO2011006797A1 (en) * 2009-07-13 2011-01-20 Ve Vienna Engineering Forschungs- Und Entwicklungs Gmbh Vibration-compensated free piston engine
WO2017198579A1 (en) * 2016-05-17 2017-11-23 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free-piston device and method for operating a free-piston device
CN109779747A (en) * 2019-01-17 2019-05-21 上海交通大学 Free piston IC power generator
DE102018000824A1 (en) * 2018-01-30 2019-08-01 Jürgen Hübsch Apparatus for converting combustion into electrical energy and combustion method for operating a free-piston engine
US10612380B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2020-04-07 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free piston device and method for operating a free piston device
US10844718B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2020-11-24 DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FüR LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT E.V. Free piston apparatus
US10890070B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2021-01-12 DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FüR LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT E.V. Free piston device
DE102008053068C5 (en) 2008-10-24 2023-11-23 TRIVIUM Business Development Company AG Variable stroke free piston engine, method of operating a free piston engine and use of openings in a piston receptacle

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Cited By (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6759755B2 (en) 2000-01-28 2004-07-06 Clavis Technology As Energy converter
WO2003091556A1 (en) * 2002-04-25 2003-11-06 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free-piston device provided with an electric linear drive
US7082909B2 (en) 2002-04-25 2006-08-01 Deutsches Zentrum Fur Luft- Und Raumfahrt E.V. Free-piston device with electric linear drive
DE102008053069A1 (en) * 2008-10-24 2010-05-06 Umc Universal Motor Corporation Gmbh Free piston engine with variable stroke and method of operating a free piston engine
DE102008053069B4 (en) * 2008-10-24 2015-07-02 Umc Universal Motor Corporation Gmbh Free piston engine with variable stroke and method of operating a free piston engine
DE102008053068C5 (en) 2008-10-24 2023-11-23 TRIVIUM Business Development Company AG Variable stroke free piston engine, method of operating a free piston engine and use of openings in a piston receptacle
WO2011006797A1 (en) * 2009-07-13 2011-01-20 Ve Vienna Engineering Forschungs- Und Entwicklungs Gmbh Vibration-compensated free piston engine
US10844718B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2020-11-24 DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FüR LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT E.V. Free piston apparatus
US10605081B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2020-03-31 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free-piston device and method for operating a free-piston device
US10612380B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2020-04-07 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free piston device and method for operating a free piston device
CN109154193A (en) * 2016-05-17 2019-01-04 德国航空航天中心 The method of free piston installation and operation free piston installation
US10890070B2 (en) 2016-05-17 2021-01-12 DEUTSCHES ZENTRUM FüR LUFT-UND RAUMFAHRT E.V. Free piston device
CN109154193B (en) * 2016-05-17 2021-05-07 德国航空航天中心 Free piston device and method for operating a free piston device
WO2017198579A1 (en) * 2016-05-17 2017-11-23 Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. Free-piston device and method for operating a free-piston device
DE102018000824A1 (en) * 2018-01-30 2019-08-01 Jürgen Hübsch Apparatus for converting combustion into electrical energy and combustion method for operating a free-piston engine
DE102018000824B4 (en) 2018-01-30 2022-02-17 Jürgen Hübsch Device for converting combustion energy into electrical energy and combustion method for operating a free-piston engine
CN109779747A (en) * 2019-01-17 2019-05-21 上海交通大学 Free piston IC power generator

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