17933146. ROTOR GROUNDING SYSTEM WITH SACRIFICIAL BEARING simplified abstract (GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC)

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ROTOR GROUNDING SYSTEM WITH SACRIFICIAL BEARING

Organization Name

GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

Inventor(s)

Sen Jiang Zhou of Troy MI (US)

Jack M Gayney of Grosse Ile MI (US)

Alireza Fatemi of Canton MI (US)

ROTOR GROUNDING SYSTEM WITH SACRIFICIAL BEARING - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17933146 titled 'ROTOR GROUNDING SYSTEM WITH SACRIFICIAL BEARING

Simplified Explanation

The rotor grounding system for an electric machine described in the abstract includes a discharge bar extending through a bearing assembly to create a discharge circuit between the rotor and the housing.

  • Rotor includes a shaft assembly that rotates about an axis.
  • Housing supports the rotor for rotation.
  • Bearing assembly has an outer circumference against the shaft assembly.
  • Discharge bar extends through at least a part of the bearing assembly.
  • Discharge circuit is defined between the rotor and the housing, extending through the bearing assembly and the discharge bar.

Potential Applications

The rotor grounding system can be used in various electric machines such as generators, motors, and turbines to ensure proper grounding and discharge of electrical energy.

Problems Solved

1. Ensures effective grounding of the rotor in electric machines. 2. Provides a discharge circuit to prevent electrical buildup and potential damage.

Benefits

1. Improved safety by preventing electrical discharge issues. 2. Enhanced performance and longevity of electric machines. 3. Efficient grounding system for reliable operation.

Potential Commercial Applications

"Rotor Grounding System for Electric Machines" - Ensuring safety and efficiency in electric machine operations.

Possible Prior Art

There may be prior art related to rotor grounding systems in electric machines, but specific examples are not provided in the abstract.

Unanswered Questions

How does the discharge bar effectively create a discharge circuit between the rotor and the housing in the system described in the abstract?

The discharge bar extends through the bearing assembly, which is in contact with the shaft assembly of the rotor. This physical connection allows for the creation of a discharge circuit between the rotor and the housing, ensuring proper grounding and discharge of electrical energy.

What are the potential implications of not having a proper rotor grounding system in electric machines?

Without a proper rotor grounding system, electric machines may experience electrical buildup, leading to potential damage, safety hazards, and operational inefficiencies. It is crucial to have an effective grounding system in place to prevent these issues and ensure the reliable operation of electric machines.


Original Abstract Submitted

A rotor grounding system for an electric machine includes a rotor including a shaft assembly configured to rotate about an axis. A housing supports the shaft assembly for rotation of the rotor. A bearing assembly has an outer circumference disposed against the shaft assembly. A discharge bar extends through at least a part of the bearing assembly. The bearing assembly has an inner circumference disposed against the discharge bar. A discharge circuit is defined between the rotor and the housing, where the discharge circuit extends through the bearing assembly and the discharge bar.