Switch Module for Electric Machine Stator Windings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric motor output efficiency is suboptimal when operating outside its base speed, limiting the operational envelope and energy efficiency in electric and hybrid electric vehicles, necessitating improved motor control inverter technology.
Innovation Solution
A switch module with a plurality of switch members configured to selectively establish series or parallel electrical connections between stator windings, linked to an inverter and controller, allowing for adjustable configurations to enhance operational efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the electric motor operates outside its base speed range, then the operational envelope is expanded, but the output efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of stator windings by switching between series and parallel connections based on operating conditions. The switch module dynamically changes the electrical connection topology to optimize motor performance across different speed ranges, transforming a static winding configuration into a dynamic adaptable system that maintains efficiency outside base speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical connection parameters of the stator windings by switching between series and parallel configurations. This parameter change allows the motor to adapt its effective winding impedance and voltage distribution, enabling efficient operation at speeds both below and above the base speed where traditional fixed configurations would be suboptimal.
2Productivity
If switch members are added to enable winding reconfiguration, then the operational efficiency is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module is segmented into multiple independent switch members, each controlling specific winding connections. This segmentation allows for modular control of different winding phases and connection configurations, enabling complex reconfiguration functionality while maintaining manageable individual switch components that can be controlled independently by the controller.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric machine including a housing and a stator arranged within the housing. The stator includes a plurality of stator windings that define a number of phases. A switch module is mounted at the housing. The switch module includes a plurality of switch members that are operatively connected to the plurality of stator windings. The plurality of switch members are configured and disposed to selectively establish one of a first electrical connection configuration and a second electrical connection configuration of the plurality of stator windings.