Homopolar dynamoelectric machine

Abstract

In a homopolar dynamoelectric machine in which a magnetic flux moves across a generally cylindrical clearance space between the stator and rotor, counterproductive magnetic fields produced by axial electric currents are avoided by providing, on the mutually confronting surfaces of the stator and rotor, nonmagnetic electrical conductors which are electrically insulated from the magnetic portions of the stator and rotor. The conductors are connected together electrically by contacts, providing an electrically conductive loop which encloses no magnetic members. Leads from the electrically conductive loop may be connected to an external circuit. The electrical conductors in one embodiment are of solid cylindrical shape, and in other embodiments are formed of spaced bars as in a squirrel cage. When spaced bars are used, the bars on one member are axially oriented and the bars on the other member are arranged in two sets which are equally but oppositely inclined to the machine axis. The preferred structure has a clearance space in the form of two truncated cones, the small diameter ends of which intersect at the longitudinal center of the apparatus. The longitudinal ends of this space terminate in inwardly concave sections for an electrically conductive liquid metal. During starting, the entire clearance space in filled with liquid metal; and, during operation, liquid is expelled from the clearance space except for the concave sections.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.