System for delivering and storing energy

Abstract

The application describes a method of operating an electric or hybrid system comprising a synchronous reluctance electric motor coupled to an electric or hybrid powertrain. The method comprises determining (i) a torque demand required by the electric motor and (ii) a speed of rotation of the rotor of the electric motor, and storing kinetic energy, from the powertrain, in a rotor of the electric motor in response to at least one of (i) the determined torque demand falling below a selected torque demand threshold and (ii) the speed of the rotor being below a selected rotor speed threshold. The method further comprises operating the electric motor by powering the electric motor with electricity to deliver energy to the powertrain in response to at least one of: (i) the determined torque demand rising above a selected torque demand threshold and (ii) the speed of the rotor falling below a selected rotor speed threshold.

Description

technical field [0001] This application relates to electric motors, and more particularly to a system for delivering and storing energy from an electric or hybrid powertrain and a method of operating the system, as well as a synchronous reluctance motor for use with such a system, and the synchronous reluctance motor Manufacturing method. Background technique [0002] The pressure to minimize life-cycle cost of ownership and life-cycle environmental and health impacts means that the choice of materials and energy consumption are key considerations in the manufacture and operation of electromechanical systems such as vehicles. In the field of personal mobility, this has seen the rise of hybrid vehicles. [0003] Hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity amid growing demand from regulators and users for environmentally friendly vehicles, as well as stricter rules on carbon emissions. As known to those skilled in the art, a hybrid vehicle uses a combination of two or more differ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0011] Known hybrid systems are problematic because such systems may experience high cycle frequencies and associated high power flow and heat generation caused by, for example, regenerative braking and recuperation, which may accelerate the deterioration of battery health, limiting system life

Furthermore, the problem can be exacerbated if such systems are subjected to repeated charge / discharge cycles with little or no opportunity for thermal relaxation (i.e. thermal spreading)

Therefore, energy is required to cool the system, which could otherwise be used to propel the vehicle; thus limiting range or requiring a larger battery

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