Electric Motor Regenerative Braking Controller for Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric aircraft propulsion systems face challenges in extending mission time due to limited battery life, as existing systems require separate energy-harvesting devices that add weight and complexity, and lack the capability to provide both movement and recharging.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system where the electric motor and propeller function as both propulsion and energy-harvesting components, using wind energy to recharge the battery system, eliminating the need for a separate energy-harvesting device by employing a controller to identify states and adjust recharging parameters for efficient energy harvesting and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a separate energy-harvesting device is added to recharge the battery system, then the aircraft can operate for longer periods, but the weight and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the energy-harvesting function with the existing electric motor by enabling the motor to operate in reverse as a generator. The motor controller is configured to detect when the propeller is being driven by external forces (wind, water current) and automatically switch the motor from motor mode to generator mode, merging two functions into a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a motor to drive the propeller during normal propulsion, and as a generator to harvest energy when the propeller is driven by external forces. The controller manages both modes automatically, making the motor a universal component that adapts to different operational conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the electric motor system is designed to harvest energy from wind, then recharging capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own existing components (motor, controller, battery) to harvest and store energy without requiring external or separate dedicated harvesting equipment. When environmental forces drive the propeller, the motor self-converts to generator mode and the controller automatically directs the generated electricity to recharge the battery, making the system self-sufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the operational parameters of the electric motor based on detected conditions. When the propeller is driven by external forces exceeding a threshold, the controller adjusts the motor's electrical characteristics (switching from motor to generator mode) and modifies recharging parameters to optimize energy capture and storage efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables electric aircraft to operate for longer periods without returning to a charging station, reduces weight and complexity, and allows for more extensive and complex missions by utilizing wind energy for recharging, thereby enhancing the aircraft's endurance and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
An electric motor is a device that converts electrical power into mechanical power
Implementation Method 2
the electric motor and propeller function as both propulsion and energy-harvesting components, using wind energy to recharge the battery system
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for controlling an electric aircraft. An apparatus comprises a motor, a power source, and a four-quadrant controller. The motor operates in four quadrants of operational space and operates in one of an accelerating state and a regenerative braking state. A total current flows through the motor. The power source is connected to the motor, and when the motor operates in the regenerative braking state, the total current flows through the power source. The power source has a maximum allowable current. The four-quadrant controller is programmed to identify a recharging parameter, brake the motor to initiate the regenerative braking state when the recharging parameter is present, recharge the power source with the total current during the regenerative braking state, and control a duty cycle of the motor such that the total current does not exceed the maximum allowable current during the regenerative braking state.