Definition
A type of stator winding used in alternators and AC generators in which the coils that produce each magnetic pole are spread out across several slots in the stator iron, rather than being concentrated on a single salient pole piece. The distributed arrangement produces a smoother, more sinusoidal output voltage and reduces electrical losses and vibration compared with a concentrated winding.
Plain English
It is a way of arranging the wire coils inside an aircraft alternator so that the coils for each magnetic pole are spread out across many small slots instead of being bunched together in one spot. Spreading them out makes the electrical output smoother and the unit run more cleanly.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft generator and alternator construction, inspection, and repair information.
Derivation
Distributed comes from the Latin distribuere, meaning to spread out or divide among. Stator comes from the Latin stare, to stand, and refers to the stationary part of the generator (the part that does not rotate). Together the phrase describes a winding whose poles are spread across the standing part of the machine rather than concentrated in one place.
Why Pilots Care
Produces smoother electrical output with less ripple, improving the reliability of aircraft electrical systems.
Intuition Check
Distributed does not mean random or loose; it means the coils are placed in a planned pattern. Pole does not mean a stick or post here; it means a magnetic north or south area.
Example Sentence 1
The alternator on this engine uses a distributed pole stator winding, which is why its output waveform is so smooth.
Example Sentence 2
Distributed pole stator windings reduce voltage ripple compared with concentrated windings in aircraft generators.