U.S. patent application number 16/999837 was filed with the patent office on 2021-07-15 for axial field rotary energy device having pcb stator and variable frequency drive.
This patent application is currently assigned to Infinitum Electric, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Infinitum Electric, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael Gray, Paulo Guedes-Pinto, Rich Lee, Jerad Park, Mark Preston, Ben Schuler.
Application Number | 20210218304 16/999837 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005091512 |
Filed Date | 2021-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210218304 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schuler; Ben ; et
al. |
July 15, 2021 |
AXIAL FIELD ROTARY ENERGY DEVICE HAVING PCB STATOR AND VARIABLE
FREQUENCY DRIVE
Abstract
An axial field rotary energy device or system includes an axis,
a PCB stator and rotors having respective permanent magnets. The
rotors rotate about the axis relative to the PCB stator. A variable
frequency drive (VFD) having VFD components are coupled to the
axial field rotary energy device. An enclosure contains the axial
field rotary energy device and the VFD, such that the axial field
rotary device and the VFD are integrated together within the
enclosure. In addition, a cooling system is integrated with the
enclosure to cool the axial field rotary energy device and the
VFD.
Inventors: |
Schuler; Ben; (Austin,
TX) ; Lee; Rich; (Liberty Lake, WA) ; Park;
Jerad; (Liberty Lake, WA) ; Guedes-Pinto; Paulo;
(Round Rock, TX) ; Preston; Mark; (Martha's
Vineyard, MA) ; Gray; Michael; (Georgetown,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Infinitum Electric, Inc. |
Round Rock |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Infinitum Electric, Inc.
Round Rock
TX
|
Family ID: |
1000005091512 |
Appl. No.: |
16/999837 |
Filed: |
August 21, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62960974 |
Jan 14, 2020 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02K 9/06 20130101; H02P
27/06 20130101; H02K 3/26 20130101; H02K 1/2793 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H02K 3/26 20060101
H02K003/26; H02K 1/27 20060101 H02K001/27; H02K 9/06 20060101
H02K009/06; H02P 27/06 20060101 H02P027/06 |
Claims
1. A system, comprising: an axial field rotary energy device having
an axis, a printed circuit board (PCB) stator and rotors having
respective permanent magnets (PM), and the rotors are configured to
rotate about the axis relative to the PCB stator; a variable
frequency drive (VFD) comprising VFD components coupled to the
axial field rotary energy device; an enclosure containing the axial
field rotary energy device and the VFD, such that the axial field
rotary device and the VFD are integrated together within the
enclosure; and a cooling system integrated within the enclosure and
configured to cool the axial field rotary energy device and the
VFD.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling system comprises an
impeller configured to cool the system.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises an axial
length, a radial width relative to the axis that is greater than
the axial length, and the enclosure is substantially rectangular in
shape when viewed axially.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein a ratio of the radial width to
the axial length is in a range of about 2:1 to about 20:1, and the
enclosure is substantially square in shape when viewed axially.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein, relative to the axis, the VFD
components are mounted around and substantially co-planar with the
axial field rotary energy device.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the VFD components comprise a
rectifier module, direct current (DC) bus, inverter module, control
module and input/output (I/O) module.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the VFD components comprise line
inductors.
8. The system of claim 6, wherein the inverter module comprises
wide band gap switching devices.
9. The system of claim 6, wherein the rectifier module and DC bus
comprise a first printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), the
inverter module and control module comprise a second PCBA, the I/O
module comprises a third PCBA.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the VFD components comprise line
inductors as a separate assembly from the first, second and third
PCBAs.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein the I/O module comprises a
daughter PCBA configured to perform customized communication
functions, and the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the third
PCBA.
12. The system of claim 6, wherein the rectifier module, DC bus,
inverter module, and control module comprise a first printed
circuit board assembly (PCBA), and the I/O module comprises a
second PCBA.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the I/O module comprises a
daughter PCBA configured to perform customized communication
functions, and the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the second
PCBA.
14. The system of claim 6, wherein the rectifier module, DC bus,
inverter module, control module and I/O module comprise a common
printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the I/O module comprises a
daughter PCBA configured to perform customized communication
functions, and the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the common
PCBA.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises
respective housings for the axial field rotary energy device and
VFD.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein the housings are substantially
axially aligned and coupled to each other.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the housings are axially spaced
apart by an axial space, a cooling device is located in the axial
space, and the VFD housing comprises an access port configured to
provide access to the VFD.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the cooling device comprises a
first impeller located between the rotors and configured to
circulate a first air flow within the housing for the axial field
rotary energy device, and a second impeller located in the axial
space between the housings and configured to circulate radial air
flow into and out of the axial space adjacent the VFD.
20. The system of claim 18, wherein each housing comprises fins
extending into the axial space between the housings.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein a cooling device comprises an
impeller and a baffle configured to circulate an air flow that,
relative to the axis, radially enters and exits the axial space
between the housings.
22. The system of claim 20, wherein the air baffle comprises an
axial component that extends in an axial direction along and around
an exterior of the enclosure to define axial air passages between
the axial component and the enclosure, the air baffle also having a
radial component that extends in a radial direction in the axial
space between the housings to define radial air passages between
the radial component and the housings.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the cooling device is
configured to circulate air flow that radially enters a first set
of the radial air passages, flows through a second set of radial
air passages, and the air flow axially exits via the axial air
passages.
24. The system of claim 22, wherein the cooling device is
configured to circulate air flow that axially enters the axial air
passages, flows through all radial air passages, and the air flow
radially exits the system.
25. The system of claim 22, wherein the cooling device is
configured to circulate air flow that axially enters a first set of
the axial air passages, flows through the radial air passages, and
the air flow axially exits a second set of axial air passages.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
Prov. App. No. 62/960,974, filed Jan. 14, 2020, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates in general to electric motors and,
in particular, to a system, method and apparatus for an electric
commutated motor (ECM) comprising an axial field rotary energy
device with a printed circuit board (PCB) stator and a variable
frequency drive (VFD).
BACKGROUND
[0003] Most permanent magnet (PM) motors are not designed to
operate with a direct connection to an alternating current (AC)
electrical source at 60 Hz or 50 Hz. Some PM motors can use a VFD
to operate in this way. Typically, PM motors are connected to a
separate VFD. In some cases, the motor and VFD are integrated in a
common enclosure forming what is commonly referred as an ECM, or as
a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. Conventional ECM and BLDC
motors are built in a traditional radial flux configuration with
laminated electrical steel stators and pre-formed or randomly wound
copper coils.
[0004] Axial flux PM electric motors that use printed circuit board
(PCB) stator structures, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
10,141,803, 10,135,310, 10,340,760, 10,141,804 and 10,186,922
(which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety),
also can use a VFD to operate. Due to their substantially different
aspect ratio (substantially short length as compared to diameter)
compared to conventional radial flux PM motors, axial flux PM
motors can be integrated with VFDs in ways not possible with
conventional radial flux PM motors. Accordingly, improvements in
axial flux ECM design continue to be of interest.
SUMMARY
[0005] Embodiments of an axial field rotary energy device or system
are disclosed. For example, the system can include an axis, a PCB
stator and rotors having respective permanent magnets (PM). The
rotors can rotate about the axis relative to the PCB stator.
Versions can include a variable frequency drive (VFD) comprising
VFD components coupled to the axial field rotary energy device. An
enclosure can contain the axial field rotary energy device and the
VFD, such that the axial field rotary device and the VFD are
integrated together within the enclosure. In addition, a cooling
system can be integrated within the enclosure and configured to
cool the axial field rotary energy device and the VFD.
[0006] The foregoing and other objects and advantages of these
embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
in view of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction
with the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] So that the manner in which the features and advantages of
the embodiments are attained and can be understood in more detail,
a more particular description can be had by reference to the
embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. However,
the drawings illustrate only some embodiments and are not to be
considered limiting in scope since there can be other equally
effective embodiments.
[0008] It shall be noted that some of the details and/or features
shown in the drawings herein may not be drawn to scale for clarity
purposes.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system
comprising an axial field rotary energy device and a VFD.
[0010] FIGS. 2A-2B are isometric views of embodiments of a VFD
integrated system from the non-drive end and drive end,
respectively, of its enclosure.
[0011] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a VFD
integrated system with a cover removed to show internal components
thereof.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of an alternate embodiment
of a VFD integrated system showing some of its components.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a sectional isometric view of an embodiment of a
VFD integrated system with a device and VFD in separate
enclosures.
[0014] FIGS. 6A-6D are schematic front views of alternate
embodiments of a VFD enclosure showing VFD modules.
[0015] FIGS. 7A-7B are schematic views of embodiments of
connections between VFD modules.
[0016] FIGS. 8A-8B are sectional views of embodiments of the VFD
integrated system of FIG. 3 depicting first and second cooling air
flow configurations.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the VFD
integrated system of FIG. 5 depicting one cooling air flow
configuration.
[0018] FIG. 10A-E are schematic views of embodiments of the VFD
integrated system of FIG. 5 depicting alternate cooling
configurations.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the VFD
integrated system depicting a cooling air flow configuration.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of
the VFD integrated system of FIG. 11 depicting an alternate cooling
air flow configuration.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a simplified front view of an embodiment of an
impeller for a VFD integrated system.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a partial isometric view of an embodiment of an
enclosure for the VFD integrated system of FIG. 3.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a
VFD integrated system with an air duct inlet and outlet.
[0024] FIG. 16 is a schematic isometric view of an alternate
embodiment of a VFD integrated system with an air duct inlet and
outlet, and a heat exchanger.
[0025] The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings
indicates similar or identical items.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] This disclosure includes embodiments of systems comprising
an axial field rotary energy device having a permanent magnet (PM),
at least one printed circuit board (PCB) stator, a variable
frequency drive (VFD), input and output (I/O) interfaces, and other
components physically assembled, for example, in a common
enclosure. Hereinafter, these systems can be referred to as a VFD
integrated system, a motor-VFD assembly, etc. However, it should be
understood that the axial field rotary energy device in these
systems can operate as a motor or as a generator.
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a general schematic view of an embodiment of
the VFD integrated system 100. In this diagram, a PM axial field
rotary energy device 110 can be coupled to the inverter module 121
of a VFD 120 through line inductors 130. In some embodiments, the
line inductors 130 can reduce ripple in the electric current
supplied to the device 110. In other versions, the line inductors
130 can be absent, such that the axial field rotary energy device
110 can be connected directly to the inverter module 121 of the VFD
120. Although the example shown in FIG. 1 depicts a 3-phase motor
connected to a 3-phase inverter, other phase arrangements are
possible, such as 1, 2, 4, 5 or 6-phase devices, just to mention
few options.
[0028] In FIG. 1, the VFD 120 can comprise a rectifier module 122,
a DC bus module 123, an inverter module 121, and a control module
124. The rectifier module 122 can be, as an example, a full wave
rectifier having passive devices, such as diodes, or active
switching devices (e.g., IGBTs, MOSFETs, etc.) to convert the
incoming alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). The DC
bus 123 can include a bank of capacitors sized to provide stable
voltage to the inverter module 121. The inverter module can have,
as an example, a 6-pulse 3-phase bridge, which can use active
switching devices, such as IGBTs or MOSFETs, controlled by a pulse
width modulation (PWM) scheme to convert DC to AC at the frequency
required by the axial field rotary energy device 110. However,
other inverter topologies can be used, such as 3-phase neutral
point clamped (NPC) inverter. Although the input to the VFD 120 is
typically AC at 60 or 50 Hz, the output frequency of the VFD 120
can range from, for example, a frequency near zero Hz, to a
frequency in the hundreds or even thousands of Hz. In some
embodiments, the power supplied to the VFD integrated system 100
can be DC, in which case, the rectifier module 122 can be absent.
As an example, in embodiments where the PWM frequencies are high
(e.g., above 100 kHz), the inverter module 122 can comprise wide
band gap (WBG) devices such as silicon carbide or gallium nitride
MOSFETs.
[0029] The VFD integrated system 100 depicted in FIG. 1 can include
a control module 124 that provides and receives signals to and from
the various modules of the VFD 120. These signals can be received
from an external source, such as a digital signal, to turn the VFD
on or off, or an analog voltage signal that can provide a speed
reference to the system. These signals can control the output
frequency of the VFD 120, and therefore the speed of the axial
field rotary energy device 110. They also can control the current
and voltage supplied by the VFD 120 to the axial field rotary
energy device 110 to achieve desired torque characteristics, such
as operating at a constant torque condition over a certain speed
range. FIG. 1 depicts input and output connection pairs 125 and 126
between the control module 124 and the inverter 121 and rectifier
122, respectively. However, there can be more than one single input
or output or, in some embodiments, input or output connections can
be absent.
[0030] In some embodiments, the control module 124 also can be
connected to the sensors in the axial field rotary energy device
100 via a separate set of input lines 127. The sensors can include,
for example, resistance temperature detectors (RTD), thermocouples,
vibration sensors, encoders, and/or other sensors for the VFD
integrated system 100. In some embodiments, the sensors may
transmit one or more measurements to the control module 124. The
control module 124 may perform an operation in response to
receiving and processing the one or more measurements. For example,
a temperature sensor may transmit a measurement pertaining to
temperature of the axial field rotary energy device 110 as it
operates. If the temperature measurement is above a threshold
temperature level, then the control module 124 may provide a signal
to cause the axial field rotary energy device 110 to reduce its
power, thereby reducing its temperature. In certain instances,
based on a measurement from the sensors, the control module 124 may
cause the axial field rotary energy device 110 to stop
operating.
[0031] The control module 124 may include a memory device, a
processing device, a communication interface device, or some
combination thereof. For example, the memory device may store
instructions that, when executed by the processing device, can
cause the processing device to perform an operation, function, or
the like. For example, the instructions may implement a control
scheme for outputting signals to control the output frequency of
the VFD 120.
[0032] The processing device may include one or more
general-purpose processing devices such as a microprocessor,
central processing unit, or the like. More particularly, the
processing device may be a complex instruction set computing (CISC)
microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC)
microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor,
or a processor implementing other instruction sets or processors
implementing a combination of instruction sets. The processing
device may also be one or more special-purpose processing devices
such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system
on a chip, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal
processor (DSP), network processor, or the like. The processing
device is configured to execute instructions for performing any of
the operations and steps discussed herein.
[0033] The memory device may include a main memory (e.g., read-only
memory (ROM), flash memory, solid state drives (SSDs), dynamic
random access memory (DRAM) such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)), a
static memory (e.g., flash memory, solid state drives (SSDs),
static random access memory (SRAM)), etc.
[0034] The communication interface device may enable communicating
data between the VFD modules transmitting and receiving analog and
digital signals that command VFD voltage frequency outputs and
communicate status of the VFD and axial field rotary energy
device.
[0035] Some versions of the control module 124 may be connected to
external systems through an input/output (I/O) module 140 that
provide the connections between the VFD integrated system 100 and a
supervisory control and data acquisition system (SCADA) or other
control system. The I/O module 140 can have a configurable control
interface 141 that can facilitate communication to an external
control system by means of a set of input/output connections 142.
Embodiments of the communication interface can include, but are not
limited to, Ethernet and Industrial Ethernet (EtherCAT,
EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, POWERLINK, SERCOS III, CC-Link IE, and
Modbus TCP), RS485, wireless including WIFI, cellular, and
Bluetooth.
[0036] The configurable control interface 141 also may have other
digital and analog interfaces to connect the VFD integrated system
100 to the end user control system, such as a 0-10 V or a 4-20 mA
analog ports. The control portion of the I/O module 141 may have
additional connections implemented on, for example, a `daughter
board` mounted on top of a standard I/O board.
[0037] Embodiments of the I/O module 140 also can provide power
connections 143 to connect the VFD integrated system 100 to an
external power supply. As described herein, FIG. 1 depicts an
embodiment of a VFD integrated system 100 connected to a 3-phase AC
source. However, this system also can be connected to a
single-phase source, to a multiphase source, or to a DC source. The
I/O module 140 may have current and voltage sensors and other
elements for the VFD integrated system, such as harmonic
filters.
[0038] Some embodiments of the VFD integrated system 100 can have
the power connection 143 directly connected to the rectifier module
122 of the VFD 120, thereby completely bypassing the I/O module
140.
[0039] Whereas FIG. 1 depicts a VFD integrated system 100 (e.g.,
with a motor), alternatively the system can be used as a
generator-VFD system where the axial flux PCB stator PM machine 110
operates as a generator, and the VFD 120 provides the integration
to the external grid. In this case, the rectifier module 122 of the
VFD can have active switching devices such as IGBTs or MOSFETs, and
the control module 124 can provide the signal to control the active
rectifier by means of the communication ports 126, in some
versions.
[0040] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an embodiment of a system that can
comprise the VFD integrated system 100 described in FIG. 1, and
further include an enclosure 200. The enclosure 200 can contain the
VFD integrated system 100 and can be relatively thin in the axial
direction (e.g., along shaft 210). The enclosure 200 also can be
substantially rectangular or square in shape when viewed axially.
The enclosure 200 can be radially wider than its axial length. In
one example, the enclosure 200 can be approximately 23 inches
square (i.e., radially) and 3 inches long (i.e., axially). However,
other sizes and aspect ratios are possible depending on the power
and torque ratings of the device. For example, a ratio of the
radial width to the axial length can be in a range of about 2:1 to
about 10:1, or even about 15:1 or 20:1.
[0041] FIG. 2A shows the front side 230 of the enclosure 200, which
can be the non-drive end of the axial field rotary energy device.
In this image, the front bearing cover is removed to show the shaft
210. In some embodiments, the shaft 210 can have an extension that
allows for mounting a second coupling or accessories, such as a
cooling fan, a speed sensor, an encoder, etc. FIG. 2A also shows an
example of a location for the I/O pass-throughs 220 that can
correspond to the I/O connections 142 and 143 described in FIG. 1.
In some embodiments, the I/O pass-throughs 220 can be located on
one or more lateral sides 240 of the enclosure 200, or on the
opposite side of the axial field rotary energy device, or can be
located at more than one external portion of the enclosure 200
(e.g., one port on the front side 230 and other ports on one or
more lateral sides 240. Whereas the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A has
cooling fin blocks 205 on the four corners of the enclosure 200,
other embodiments can have cooling fin blocks 205 on only one
corner, two corners, or three corners depending on the cooling
requirements for the VFD integrated system 100.
[0042] FIG. 2B depicts the back side of the VFD integrated system
100, which can be the drive end of the axial field rotary energy
device. In this view, a coupling flange 250 is shown as an example.
The axial field rotary energy device coupling can have different
dimensions and features depending on the application and the type
of driven equipment.
[0043] FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the VFD integrated system 100
where the rectifier module, DC bus, inverter module, control
module, I/O module, and line inductors form separate assemblies
that are mounted around and substantially in the same plane of the
axial field rotary energy device 110, all in a common enclosure
200. In this embodiment, the inverter and control modules are
arranged in a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 128, and the
rectifier and DC bus modules are arranged in another PCBA 129,
whereas the I/O module 140 resides in its own PCBA. The line
inductors 130 can form a separate assembly where they are
interconnected by means of a PCB 135. Other modular arrangements
are possible, such as having each module of the VFD on a separate
PCBA, or all modules combined in one single PCBA, or any other
combination thereof.
[0044] As an example, FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the VFD
integrated system 100 where the rectifier, DC bus, inverter and
control modules of the VFD are all combined in one single PCBA 131.
The I/O module 140 can reside on a separate PCBA. The line
inductors 130 can form a separate assembly in the enclosure 200,
and can be mounted in substantially the same plane as the axial
flux PCB stator PM motor 110. Whereas FIGS. 3 and 4 show
embodiments with six line inductors 130, it should be understood
that other embodiments can have more than six line inductors,
others can have less than six line inductors, and others yet can
have no line inductors. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the line
inductors 130 are interconnected via a PCB to form an assembly with
the PCBA 135. In other embodiments, however, the PCB 135 can be
absent and the line inductors 130 can be interconnected with cables
and/or wires.
[0045] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, some of the I/O
pass-throughs 220 are approximately aligned with the I/O module
140. Other pass-throughs are approximately aligned with the
combined rectifier and DC bus module 129. Other embodiments may
have the pass-through blocks placed in other locations.
[0046] Whereas FIGS. 3 and 4 show examples of embodiments where the
VFD modules are mounted around and substantially in the same plane
of the axial field rotary energy device. Other embodiments can have
the VFD integrated system integrated in one assembly where the VFD
modules are located in a plane substantially different from the
plane where the axial field rotary energy device is.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the VFD
integrated system 100. In this example, the VFD 120 is mounted in
an enclosure 300 that is substantially aligned axially with the
axial field rotary energy device 110. The VFD 120 is axially offset
or in a different axial plane than the device 110.
[0048] The embodiment of FIG. 5 can have the VFD enclosure 300
attached to the axial field rotary energy device enclosure 200 with
one or more brackets 310. The brackets 310 can provide spacing to
accommodate a cooling fan 320 between the axial field rotary energy
device enclosure 200 and the VFD enclosure 300. In some
embodiments, a conduit 330 can provide a path for power cables,
harnesses, etc., connecting the axial field rotary energy device to
the VFD. Whereas FIG. 5 shows one conduit 330, other embodiments
may have two or more conduits. As an example, an embodiment can
have a first conduit for power cables and a second conduit for
sensor cables. The enclosure 300 can have an access port, such as a
removable lid 302, that can provide access to service the VFD.
[0049] The VFD integrated system embodiment of FIG. 5 can be
provided, as an example, to provide an ingress protection rating of
IP55, as per international standard EN 60529 for both the VFD
enclosure 300 and the axial field rotary energy device enclosure
200. Other embodiments may have a different ingress protection
rating, such as IP20, IP22, or any other protection rating as per
standard EN60529 or its equivalent national standards. The separate
VFD and PM axial field rotary energy device enclosure configuration
shown in FIG. 5 can also allow for having different ingress
protection ratings for the axial field rotary energy device
enclosure and the VFD enclosure. Examples include IP55 for the VFD
enclosure and IP44 for the axial field rotary energy device
enclosure or any other combination thereof.
[0050] FIG. 5 depicts the VFD as housed in a separate enclosure
300. The VFD modules (e.g., rectifier, DC bus, inverter, control,
I/O modules, line inductors, etc.) can be arranged in various
configurations. FIG. 6A shows one embodiment of the VFD where the
rectifier, DC bus, inverter, control, and I/O modules are combined
as one single PCBA 132 inside the VFD enclosure 300 and the line
inductors form a separate assembly 135.
[0051] FIG. 6B shows another embodiment where the rectifier, DC
bus, inverter and control modules are combined as one PCBA 131,
whereas the I/O module 140 has its own PCBA housed in a separate
partition 301 of the enclosure 300. In this embodiment, the
partition 301 can have its own access port separate from the VFD
enclosure access port (e.g., lid 302 shown in FIG. 5), which can
provide access to the I/O module 140 without exposing the other
modules of the VFD.
[0052] FIG. 6C shows another embodiment where the inverter and
control modules are combined as one PCBA 128, the rectifier and DC
bus modules are combined as another PCBA 129, and the I/O module
140 has its own PCBA housed in a separate partition 301 of the
enclosure 300. In this embodiment, the partition 301 can have its
own access port separate from the VFD enclosure lid 302 shown in
FIG. 5 to provide access to the I/O module 140 without exposing the
other modules of the VFD.
[0053] FIG. 6D shows an alternate embodiment of the VFD integrated
system shown in FIG. 6C, where the enclosure 300 can have a
substantially flat face 300a adjacent to the partition 301 that
provides a mounting surface to pass-throughs 220. In this example,
the pass-through 220a can be used to bring power cables through the
housing 300 to be connected to the rectifier PCBA 129, and the
pass-throughs 220b can be used to bring signal I/O cables into
partition 301 to be connected to the I/O module 140. The flat face
300a can also provide a mounting surface for an antenna 144
connected to the I/O module 140. The antenna 144 can provide
connectivity to a wireless network thereby providing a wireless I/O
to the VFD integrated system.
[0054] Whereas FIGS. 6A-6D show several embodiments of the VFD
mounted in a separate enclosure 300, other arrangements are
possible. As examples, the VFD may not have line inductors, or each
module of the VFD can have its own separate PCBA.
[0055] Embodiments of the connection between the PCB stator and the
PCB that interconnects the line inductors may be accomplished
through a cable harness with electrical connectors on both ends.
For example, FIG. 7A includes a line inductor 130 that forms an
assembly with the PCB 135 which is connected to the PCB stator
terminals 160 via a cable harness 170 with electrical connectors
180 on both ends. In some applications, however, it may be desired
to have the cable harness permanently connected to either the
stator PCB or the PCBA that interconnects the line inductors. FIG.
7B shows an embodiment of the latter, where the cable harness 160
is coupled to stator terminals 160 via an electrical connector 180
and connected to the inductor PCB 135 via a soldered connection
190. The connection can be a male-female connector that can be
disconnected and re-connected without special tools. Permanent
connections that cannot be easily undone, such as a soldered
connection or a crimped connection, also can be used. Similarly,
the connection between the output of the inverter module of the VFD
and the PCBA that interconnects the line inductors can be
accomplished, in one version, via a cable harness with connectors
on both ends, or on one end only with the other end permanently
connected to the inductor PCBA or the inverter module PCBA.
[0056] It should be understood that in those embodiments where the
various modules of the VFD are mounted in separate PCBAs, the
connection between the various modules also can be accomplished via
cable harnesses with connectors on both ends of the cable
harnesses. Alternatively, cables harnesses can be permanently
connected on one end to a first PCBA and with a connector on the
other end to connect to a second PCBA. For embodiments where the
line inductors are absent, a cable harness can connect the output
of the inverter to the PCB stator terminals. The harness may have
connectors on both ends or on only one end. Furthermore, in some
embodiments, the connections between various VFD modules, line
inductors and stator PCB can be achieved by means of flexible PCBs
soldered and/or coupled at each end.
[0057] FIG. 8A shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the VFD
integrated system 100 of FIG. 3. The VFD 120 can be located around
and substantially on the same plane as the axial field rotary
energy device 110 in a common enclosure 200. In this embodiment,
the axial field rotary energy device can have a first air
circulator, such as a fan or impeller 315, mounted between the two
discs 340 that comprise the rotor. As the rotor rotates, the first
impeller 315 can generate a first air flow 350 that can enter the
axial field rotary energy device through air intakes or ventilation
openings 355 circumferentially distributed relatively to the shaft
210 on one or both ends of the enclosure 200. The air flow can
circulate between the two discs 340 and radially over the surfaces
of the PCB stator 115. The air flow can enter the volume 305 that
houses the VFD 120, and ultimately can exit the enclosure 200
radially through peripheral openings 365, as shown in FIG. 8A.
[0058] In some embodiments, the first air flow 350 may exit the
enclosure 200 radially at one or more of the four corners through
openings in the cooling fin blocks 205 (FIG. 3). In other
embodiments, the first air flow 350 may exit the enclosure 200
radially through other openings located in the periphery of the
enclosure 200, axially through openings on one or both end faces of
the enclosure 200, or a combination thereof.
[0059] In some embodiments, a second series of impellers 345 may be
mounted on the back side of the rotor discs 340 as shown in FIG.
8A. As the rotor rotates, the second impellers 345 can generate a
second air flow 360 that can enter the axial field rotary energy
device through ventilation openings 355 on one or both ends of the
enclosure 200. Ventilation openings 355 can be circumferentially
distributed relatively to the shaft 210. The air flow can circulate
between the discs 340 and the adjacent walls of the enclosure 200.
The air flow can enter the volume 305 that houses the VFD 120, and
can exit the enclosure 200 radially through peripheral openings
365, as shown in FIG. 8A.
[0060] In some embodiments, the second air flow 360 may exit the
enclosure 200 radially at one or more of the four corners through
openings in the cooling fin blocks 205 (FIG. 3). In other
embodiments, the second air flow 360 may exit the enclosure 200
radially through other openings located in the periphery of the
enclosure 200, axially through openings on one or both end faces of
the enclosure 200, or a combination thereof.
[0061] FIG. 8B shows an alternate embodiment where the second air
flow 360 generated by the impellers 345 can enter the enclosure 200
through a second set of ventilation openings 356 circumferentially
distributed relative to the shaft 210 at a radius larger than the
radius where the ventilation openings 355 are located. In some
embodiments, the enclosure 200 can have air baffles 357 between the
openings 355 and 356 to separate the first air flow 350 entering
the enclosure 200 through ventilation openings 355 from the second
air flow 360 entering the enclosure 200 through ventilation
openings 356.
[0062] FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of FIG. 5, where the VFD 120 can
be located in a different axial plane than that of the axial field
rotary energy device. The axial field rotary energy device
enclosure can have an ingress protection rating of IP55. In this
embodiment, the axial field rotary energy device can have a first
impeller 315 mounted between the two rotor discs 340 that comprise
the rotor. As the rotor rotates, the first impeller 315 can
generate a first air flow 350 that flows radially outward in the
air gaps between the rotor discs 340 and the surfaces of the
stationary PCB stator 115. The air flow can return radially toward
the center of the rotor in the space between the rotor disks 340
and the inner walls of the enclosure 200, where it returns to the
first impeller 315 through circumferentially distributed openings
370.
[0063] The embodiment shown in FIG. 9 can have a second impeller
320, which can comprise a cooling fan, coupled to the shaft 210 in
the axial space between the axial field rotary energy device
enclosure 200 and the VFD enclosure 300. The second impeller 320
can form a second airflow 360 that can radially enter the axial
space between the axial field rotary energy device enclosure 200
and an air baffle 380, flowing around fins 390a attached to the
axial field rotary energy device enclosure 200. The air flow can
circulate radially outward between the external wall of the VFD
enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380, while flowing around the fins
390b extending from the VFD enclosure 300, thereby helping to cool
the components of the VFD 120.
[0064] Depending on the cooling needs of the VFD integrated system
100, other air circulation patterns are possible for the embodiment
shown in FIG. 5. For example, this can be done by rearranging the
cooling fan 320 and the air baffle 380. In another example, FIG.
10A shows an alternative air circulation pattern where the cooling
fan 320 is located substantially near the axial field rotary energy
device enclosure 200. In this version, cooling fan 320 can generate
air flow that enters the space between the external radial wall of
the VFD enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380, flowing over fins
390b extending from the VFD enclosure 300. The air flow can
circulate radially outward between the external wall of the axial
field rotary energy device enclosure 200 and the air baffle 380,
flowing over fins 390a extending from the axial field rotary energy
device enclosure 200.
[0065] FIG. 10B (and a reverse flow counterpart, FIG. 10E) show
other examples of air circulation for the VFD integrated system 100
shown in FIG. 5. In this case, the air baffle 380 can extend
substantially axially along and around the outer perimeter of the
axial field rotary energy device enclosure 200, forming an air
passage around the enclosure 200. The cooling fan 320 can be
located substantially near the enclosure 200 and can generate an
air flow 360 that can enter the space between the external wall of
the VFD enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380 flowing over fins
390b. The air flow can circulate radially outward between the
external wall of the enclosure 200 and the air baffle 380, and flow
around fins 390a. Guided by the air baffle 380, the air flow can be
directed substantially axially along the outer perimeter of the
enclosure 200 in the space between the enclosure 200 and air baffle
380. This air flow can circulate around a second set of fins 390c
extending from the periphery of the enclosure 200. The air flow can
then exit at the drive end of the VFD integrated system 100.
[0066] FIG. 10C shows another example of air circulation for the
VFD integrated system 100 of FIG. 5. The air baffle 380 can extend
substantially axially along and around the outer perimeter of the
VFD enclosure 300 to form an air passage around the VFD enclosure
300. The cooling fan 320 can be located substantially near the VFD
enclosure 300 and generate an air flow 360 that enters the space
between the external wall of the PM axial field rotary energy
device enclosure 200 and the air baffle 380. The air can flow
around fins 390a, then radially outward between the external wall
of the VFD enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380, around a first set
of fins 390b. The air flow can be guided by the air baffle 380,
turn in a direction substantially axial, and flow axially along the
outer perimeter of the VFD enclosure 300 in the space between the
VFD enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380. The air flow can
circulate around another set of fins 390d extending from the
periphery of the VFD enclosure 300, and then exit at the non-drive
end of VFD integrated system 100.
[0067] FIG. 10D shows another example of air circulation 360 in the
VFD integrated assembly 100 of FIG. 5. The air baffle 380 can
extend substantially axially along and around the outer perimeter
of the enclosure 200 and VFD enclosure 300 to form air passages
around both enclosures 200, 300. The cooling fan 320 can be located
substantially near the VFD enclosure 300 and can generate air flow
360 to enter the space between the outer perimeter of the enclosure
200 and the air baffle 380. The air can flow around fins 390c and
be guided by the air baffle 380. The air can flow radially inward
between the enclosure 200 and the air baffle 380, flowing around
fins 390a. The air can then flow radially outward between the VFD
enclosure 300 and the air baffle 380, flowing around fins 390b.
Guided by the air baffle 380, the air can turn to substantially
axial flow along the outer perimeter of the VFD enclosure 300 in
the space between the VFD enclosure and the air baffle 380. The air
can flow around fins 390d and exit at the non-drive end of the VFD
integrated system 100.
[0068] FIGS. 9 and 10A-10E depict several possible embodiments of
air flows for the VFD integrated system 100. However, it should be
understood that other embodiments of air circulation not described
herein with different combinations of cooling fan location (e.g.,
substantially near the enclosures 200, 300), and air baffle
geometry (e.g., extending axially along the enclosures 200, 300, or
both) are possible. Although these examples include fins, it should
be understood that some embodiments may have fins only on the
enclosure 200 or 300, and variations where the fins are located
only on the outer perimeter of the enclosures 200, 300 also are
possible.
[0069] The examples in FIGS. 5, 9 and 10A-10D depict embodiments of
the VFD integrated system 100 with enclosures that are consistent
with ingress protection rating IP55. Other ingress protection
ratings can be achieved, such as IP56 or IP65.
[0070] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the VFD integrated system 100
where the axial field rotary energy device 110 and the VFD 120 are
substantially axially aligned, and located on different planes.
They can be integrated in a common enclosure 200 with ingress
protection rating IP20. The enclosure 200 can define at least two
separate spaces. One space can contain the axial field rotary
energy device 110 and the other space can contain the VFD 120. In
some versions, the axial field rotary energy device 110 can have a
first impeller 315 mounted between the two discs 340 that comprise
the rotor. As the rotor rotates, the first impeller 315 can form a
first air flow 350 that can enter the axial field rotary energy
device 110 through ventilation openings 355a, which can be
circumferentially distributed relatively to the shaft 210 on the
drive end of the enclosure 200. The air can flow between the two
discs 340 and radially over the surfaces of the PCB stator 115. The
air flow can exit the enclosure 200 radially through peripheral
openings 365. In some embodiments, a second impeller 320 can be
included, such as mounted on a shaft extension. As the rotor
rotates, the second impeller 320 can generate a second air flow 360
that can enter the enclosure 200 through a second set of
ventilation openings 355b circumferentially distributed relatively
to the shaft 210 on the non-drive end of the enclosure 200. The air
can flow into the volume that houses the VFD 120, and can exit the
enclosure 200 radially through peripheral openings 365.
[0071] In the alternate embodiment of FIG. 12, the first impeller
315 can generate a first air flow in two streams. The first stream
350a can enter the axial field rotary energy device 110 through
ventilation openings 355a circumferentially distributed relatively
to the shaft 210 on the drive end of the enclosure 200. The second
stream 350b can enter the axial field rotary energy device 110
through ventilation opening 355b circumferentially distributed
relative to the shaft 210 on the non-drive end of the enclosure
200. The two streams can merge at the first impeller 315, can flow
between the two discs 340 and radially over the surfaces of the PCB
stator 115, and can exit the enclosure 200 radially through
peripheral openings 365. The second impeller 320 can have features
to separate the second stream 350b of the first air flow from the
second air flow 360, as the air flows enter the enclosure 200
through the ventilation openings 355b.
[0072] FIG. 13 show an embodiment of the second impeller 320 with
some features. The second impeller 320 can have a hub 321 with an
axial bore for mounting on the axial field rotary energy device
shaft extension. The hub 321 can have a plurality of radial fins
322 that support a substantially cylindrical tube 323 that is
coaxial with the hub 321. Tube 323 can support a plurality of
radial fins or blades 324 that can propel the air radially as the
impeller 320 rotates, thereby generating the second air flow 360
depicted in FIG. 12. The circumferential space between the hub 321
and the tube 323 can provide openings 325 for the second stream of
the first air flow 350b to move axially from the enclosure openings
355b to the first impeller 315, as shown in FIG. 12.
[0073] Referring again to FIG. 12, the second airflow 360 generated
by the blades 324 of the second impeller 320, can enter the
enclosure 200 through ventilation openings 355b, which can be
circumferentially distributed relatively to the shaft 210 on the
non-drive end of the enclosure 200. The air can flow into the
volume that houses the VFD 120, and can exit the enclosure 200
radially through peripheral openings 365.
[0074] These embodiments can have an ingress protection rating
IP20. Other protection ratings, such as IP22, IP32, IP44 and still
others, also can be achieved. For example, these embodiment can
include screens and/or louvers adjacent the ventilation openings
355a and 355b.
[0075] The embodiments can have a second impeller 320, which can be
mounted on a shaft extension. Other embodiments can have a fan
powered by an electric motor attached to the enclosure 200. The fan
can generate the air flow 360. Some embodiments may not include the
second impeller 320 and the shaft extension.
[0076] In some embodiments, the impeller 320 depicted in FIG. 13
can have the radial fins 322 shaped to generate a substantially
axial air flow. Alternatively, the radial blades 324 can be shaped
as air foils to generate a substantially radial air flow, or a
combination thereof.
[0077] The embodiments can include cooling fin blocks 205 (see,
e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and 14) in one or more of the four corners of the
enclosure. The cooling fin blocks 205 can have features to
facilitate and or align their attachment, such as machined surfaces
207 (FIG. 14), and tapped holes 208 for fasteners. The embodiments
can have cooling fin blocks 205 formed from modular blocks of
thermally conductive metals, such as aluminum or copper. They can
be extruded, cast or machined, for example. The cooling fin blocks
205 can have openings or slits 206 at their bases that can allow
the air flow 350 generated by the rotor impellers to exit the
enclosure 200. At least one of cooling fin blocks 205 can be
removable, so other elements can be attached to the assembly to
provide alternate cooling methods.
[0078] Other embodiments can have cooling fin blocks 205 with no
slits 206 at the bases. When such blocks 205 are mounted to the
enclosure 200, they can seal openings of the enclosure 200 at the
corners. In such embodiments, the ventilation openings 355, 356
shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, at both ends of the enclosure 200 may be
absent. In such cases, the assembly can be totally enclosed,
achieving an ingress protection rating IP55 or IP56. These versions
can be desirable for applications where the assembly can be
installed in a hazardous environment, such as a National Electric
Code Class 1 Division 1 location, as an example.
[0079] FIG. 15 shows an embodiment where the enclosure 200 has an
air inlet 410 on one side of the enclosure that allows cool air to
enter the enclosure. A duct 420 can be attached to two of the
enclosure corner openings, for example, to provide an air outlet
430. The air outlet 430 can direct the hot air coming from the
assembly to a convenient location, such as the exterior of a
building or an air plenum. In some embodiments, the other two
corners of the enclosure 200 can be sealed with lids. Other
variations of these embodiments can have air ducts connected to all
four openings of the enclosure, three openings or just one. Some
embodiments may have a combination of cooling fin blocks and air
ducts, such as those mounted to the corners of the enclosure. Still
other embodiments may have the air ducts connected to openings on
the sides of the enclosure, not on the corners.
[0080] FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of a VFD integrated system
where a first air duct 420 is attached to two corners of the
enclosure 200. It can direct hot air into a heat exchanger 440. A
second air duct 425 can direct the cold air coming from the heat
exchanger 440 back to the enclosure. The two remaining corners can
be sealed with lids, for example. In some embodiments, the heat
exchanger 440 can be an air-to-air hear exchanger, a water-to-air
heat exchanger, or may have any other suitable cooling fluid to
cool the air circulating through the assembly. In some embodiments,
another set of ducts may be mounted to one or more corners of the
enclosure with, for example, a second heat exchanger connected to
them. Other embodiments may have the air ducts connected to
openings on the sides of the enclosure, not on the corners.
[0081] These embodiments can provide a flexible VFD integrated
system having a structure and enclosure that allows for various
combinations of cooling schemes and configurations. The examples
provided just a small set of possibilities.
[0082] Other embodiments can include one or more of the following
items.
[0083] 1. A system, comprising: [0084] an axial field rotary energy
device having an axis, a printed circuit board (PCB) stator and
rotors having respective permanent magnets (PM), and the rotors are
configured to rotate about the axis relative to the PCB stator;
[0085] a variable frequency drive (VFD) comprising VFD components
coupled to the axial field rotary energy device; [0086] an
enclosure containing the axial field rotary energy device and the
VFD, such that the axial field rotary device and the VFD are
integrated together within the enclosure; and [0087] a cooling
system integrated within the enclosure and configured to cool the
axial field rotary energy device and the VFD.
[0088] 2. The system wherein the cooling system comprises an
impeller configured to cool the system.
[0089] 3. The system wherein the enclosure comprises an axial
length, a radial width relative to the axis that is greater than
the axial length, and the enclosure is substantially rectangular in
shape when viewed axially.
[0090] 4. The system wherein a ratio of the radial width to the
axial length is in a range of about 2:1 to about 20:1, and the
enclosure is substantially square in shape when viewed axially.
[0091] 5. The system wherein, relative to the axis, the VFD
components are mounted around and substantially co-planar with the
axial field rotary energy device.
[0092] 6. The system wherein the VFD components comprise a
rectifier module, direct current (DC) bus, inverter module, control
module and input/output (I/O) module.
[0093] 7. The system wherein the VFD components comprise line
inductors.
[0094] 8. The system wherein the inverter module comprises wide
band gap switching devices.
[0095] 9. The system wherein the rectifier module and DC bus
comprise a first printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), the
inverter module and control module comprise a second PCBA, the I/O
module comprises a third PCBA.
[0096] 10. The system wherein the VFD components comprise line
inductors as a separate assembly from the first, second and third
PCBAs.
[0097] 11. The system wherein the I/O module comprises a daughter
PCBA configured to perform customized communication functions, and
the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the third PCBA.
[0098] 12. The system wherein the rectifier module, DC bus,
inverter module, and control module comprise a first printed
circuit board assembly (PCBA), and the I/O module comprises a
second PCBA.
[0099] 13. The system wherein the I/O module comprises a daughter
PCBA configured to perform customized communication functions, and
the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the second PCBA.
[0100] 14. The system wherein the rectifier module, DC bus,
inverter module, control module and I/O module comprise a common
printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).
[0101] 15. The system wherein the I/O module comprises a daughter
PCBA configured to perform customized communication functions, and
the daughter PCBA is removably coupled to the common PCBA.
[0102] 16. The system wherein the enclosure comprises respective
housings for the axial field rotary energy device and VFD.
[0103] 17. The system wherein the housings are substantially
axially aligned and coupled to each other.
[0104] 18. The system wherein the housings are axially spaced apart
by an axial space, a cooling device is located in the axial space,
and the VFD housing comprises an access port configured to provide
access to the VFD.
[0105] 19. The system wherein the cooling device comprises a first
impeller located between the rotors and configured to circulate a
first air flow within the housing for the axial field rotary energy
device, and a second impeller located in the axial space between
the housings and configured to circulate radial air flow into and
out of the axial space adjacent the VFD.
[0106] 20. The system wherein each housing comprises fins extending
into the axial space between the housings.
[0107] 21. The system wherein a cooling device comprises an
impeller and a baffle configured to circulate an air flow that,
relative to the axis, radially enters and exits the axial space
between the housings.
[0108] 22. The system wherein the air baffle comprises an axial
component that extends in an axial direction along and around an
exterior of the enclosure to define axial air passages between the
axial component and the enclosure, the air baffle also having a
radial component that extends in a radial direction in the axial
space between the housings to define radial air passages between
the radial component and the housings.
[0109] 23. The system wherein the cooling device is configured to
circulate air flow that radially enters a first set of the radial
air passages, flows through a second set of radial air passages,
and the air flow axially exits via the axial air passages.
[0110] 24. The system wherein the cooling device is configured to
circulate air flow that axially enters the axial air passages,
flows through all radial air passages, and the air flow radially
exits the system.
[0111] 25. The system wherein the cooling device is configured to
circulate air flow that axially enters a first set of the axial air
passages, flows through the radial air passages, and the air flow
axially exits a second set of axial air passages.
[0112] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be
limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the"
may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises,"
"comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and
therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The
method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to
be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the
particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically
identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood
that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
[0113] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,"
"engaged to," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or
layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the
other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or
"directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no
intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to
describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in
a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between,"
"adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the
term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of
the associated listed items.
[0114] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used
herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers
and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be
only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or
section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as
"first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do
not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the
context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section
discussed below could be termed a second element, component,
region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of
the example embodiments.
[0115] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer,"
"beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," "top", "bottom," and
the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe
one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or
feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms
may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device
in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the
figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over,
elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or
features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or
features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an
orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise
oriented (rotated degrees or at other orientations) and the
spatially relative descriptions used herein interpreted
accordingly.
[0116] This written description uses examples to disclose the
embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable those of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. The
patentable scope is defined by the claims, and can include other
examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other
examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they
have structural elements that do not differ from the literal
language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural
elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages
of the claims.
[0117] In the foregoing specification, the concepts have been
described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of
ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications
and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the
invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the
specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative
rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are
intended to be included within the scope of invention.
[0118] It can be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain
words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term
"communicate," as well as derivatives thereof, encompasses both
direct and indirect communication. The terms "include" and
"comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without
limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and/or. The phrase
"associated with," as well as derivatives thereof, can mean to
include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be
contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be
communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be
proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, have a
relationship to or with, or the like. The phrase "at least one of,"
when used with a list of items, means that different combinations
of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one item
in the list can be needed. For example, "at least one of: A, B, and
C" includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A
and C, B and C, and A and B and C.
[0119] Moreover, various functions described herein can be
implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of
which is formed from computer readable program code and embodied in
a computer readable medium. The terms "application" and "program"
refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets
of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes,
instances, related data, or a portion thereof adapted for
implementation in a suitable computer readable program code. The
phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of
computer code, including source code, object code, and executable
code. The phrase "computer readable medium" includes any type of
medium capable of being accessed by a computer, such as read only
memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a
compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), solid state drive
(SSD), or any other type of memory. A "non-transitory" computer
readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other
communication links that transport transitory electrical or other
signals. A non-transitory computer readable medium includes media
where data can be permanently stored and media where data can be
stored and later overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disc or
an erasable memory device.
[0120] Also, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe
elements and components described herein. This is done merely for
convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the
invention. This description should be read to include one or at
least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it
states otherwise.
[0121] The description in the present application should not be
read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is
an essential or critical element that must be included in the claim
scope. The scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the
allowed claims. Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.112(f) with respect to any of the appended claims or claim
elements unless the exact words "means for" or "step for" are
explicitly used in the particular claim, followed by a participle
phrase identifying a function.
[0122] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have
been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However,
the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s)
that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or
become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical,
required, sacrosanct or an essential feature of any or all the
claims.
[0123] After reading the specification, skilled artisans will
appreciate that certain features which are, for clarity, described
herein in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided
in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features
that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single
embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any
subcombination. Further, references to values stated in ranges
include each and every value within that range.
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