Movable Stator Magnet Electric Motor Torque Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric motors require large amounts of electricity to achieve torque, leading to inefficiency and the need for heavier batteries, which in turn require more power, resulting in less reaction from permanent magnets.

Innovation Solution

The electric motor incorporates a rotor with a commutator and armature windings, along with a plurality of stator magnets that are selectively positionable between a proximal and distal position using an actuator, allowing for maximum or minimum magnetic force application, reducing reliance on electricity for torque production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If large amounts of electricity are used in existing electric motors, then torque is achieved, but energy efficiency deteriorates and battery weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovetorqueVSAvoidenergy efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the stator magnets movable rather than fixed. The stator magnets can be dynamically positioned between a proximal position (close to the rotor) to maximize magnetic force and torque production, and a distal position (farther from the rotor) to minimize magnetic force and reduce energy consumption. This dynamic positioning allows the motor to adapt its magnetic field strength based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between achieving high torque and maintaining energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If more batteries are added to provide more power, then power output increases, but weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidbattery weight
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The movable stator magnet mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of power output without proportionally increasing battery weight. By positioning stator magnets proximally, the motor can generate high torque and power output from the same battery capacity. By positioning them distally, the motor reduces power consumption, allowing existing batteries to suffice. This eliminates the need to add more batteries for higher power requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Force

If permanent magnets are multiplied by electricity to get total torque, then torque is achieved, but reaction to change is minimal

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovetorqueVSAvoidresponse to change
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dramatically improves adaptability by making the magnetic field strength adjustable through stator magnet positioning. The system can rapidly transition between high-torque mode (stator magnets proximal) and low-power mode (stator magnets distal), providing a strong response to changing operational demands. This dynamic configuration allows the motor to adapt to varying load conditions, speed requirements, and efficiency targets, unlike conventional motors with fixed magnetic field strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 design significantly increases torque output while minimizing energy consumption, enabling the motor to produce thousands of Newtons of torque with less electricity, suitable for high-torque applications like aerospace, and reducing the weight and energy requirements.

Implementation Method 1

The strength of the magnetic force between the stator and the rotor will determine the torque of the motor. The closer the stator is to the rotor, the stronger the magnetic force and the higher the torque.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

An actuator may be coupled to the stator to move the stator between a proximal position, imparting a maximum magnetic force on the rotor, and a distal position, imparting a minimum magnetic force on the rotor.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS11689088B2Movable permanent magnet stator electric motor
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 GARRETT IV ROBERT WILLOUGHBY
  • US11689088B2 patent drawing
  • US11689088B2 patent drawing
  • US11689088B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electric motor with a movable permanent magnet stator is disclosed. The electric motor includes a rotor with an armature having a plurality of windings about the armature. A plurality of stator magnets are disposed about the rotor. The plurality of stator magnets a selectively positionable between a proximal position, in close proximity to the rotor, and a distal position, away from the rotor. An actuator is coupled to the plurality of stator magnets, the actuator operable to position the plurality of stator magnets between the proximal position and the distal position. The output of the electric motor is controlled by moving the stator magnets towards and away from rotor, rather than applying varying amounts of electricity to the rotor.