Axial Magnetic Flux Airflow Integrated Compressor-Generator-Motor Turbojet

About this technology

Overview

Innovators at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center have developed a compressor-generator-motor turbojet design that integrates the generator into the aerodynamic blade structures of the compression section of turbo-machinery. This lowers both weight and volume compared with conventional turbine generator arrangements in which the turbojet or turbofan drives a separate shaft-driven generator. All manner of other conventional designs suffer from system inefficiencies. Conventional side-mounted generators require the weight of a 90-degree gearbox, while a rear-mounted generator suffers from cooling problems. Armstrong's design offers improvements over these configurations with a flight-weight electromagnetic turbo-generator that is suitable for application to distributed turboelectric systems on aircraft and aids in cooling the system. The unique technology may enable new aircraft configurations and future Turboelectric Distributed Propulsion (TeDP) aircraft designs.