Variable Flux Memory Motor Control for Multi-Axle Power Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-motor drivetrains in vehicles face issues such as increased weight, rollover losses, energy inefficiencies, and mechanical complexity due to the use of different types of motors and mechanical engagement mechanisms, which are not reliably efficient in coordinating speed and torque outputs.
Innovation Solution
A system with a set of Variable Flux Memory Motors (VFMMs) connected to drivetrains, controlled by a controller to dynamically adjust magnetization states based on power requirements, allowing optimal engagement and disengagement of VFMMs to meet torque and speed demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple synchronous motors are used to drive multi-axle vehicles, then power requirements and torque are improved, but weight and rollover losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple synchronous motors into a unified control system where a single controller coordinates the operation of all motors. This merging approach allows the system to achieve the power of multiple motors while reducing overall weight by eliminating redundant control systems and optimizing the motor configuration across all axles.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to universally control multiple synchronous motors across different axles, allowing each motor to serve multiple functions depending on driving conditions. The system can dynamically allocate power distribution among motors to meet varying power requirements while maintaining optimal weight efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical disconnect mechanisms or clutches are used to engage/disengage motors, then adaptability to power requirements is improved, but device complexity and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical disconnect mechanisms and clutches with an electronic control system that dynamically adjusts motor operation through software-based power distribution. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components while maintaining adaptability to varying power requirements through electronic torque vectoring and power management.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts the operational state of each motor based on real-time power requirements, seamlessly transitioning between different power distribution configurations without mechanical engagement or disengagement. This dynamic control provides adaptability while reducing mechanical complexity.
3Power
If permanent magnet motors operate at high speeds, then power output is improved, but energy losses from iron, eddy, and copper losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically changes operational parameters of the permanent magnet motors based on speed and load conditions. By adjusting current magnitude, frequency, and phase angles, the system optimizes the balance between power output and energy losses, reducing iron, eddy, and copper losses during high-speed operation while maintaining required power levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor motor operating conditions in real-time and adjust control parameters to minimize energy losses. Based on feedback about speed, torque, and temperature, the controller optimizes current delivery to reduce parasitic losses while maintaining power output requirements.
4Ease of manufacture
If a single type of motor is used throughout the drivetrain, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different power requirements is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal controller design that can manage multiple synchronous motors with different power ratings and characteristics. This universal control architecture maintains manufacturing simplicity by using a standardized control platform while providing adaptability to different power requirements through software-based motor management and power distribution strategies.
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
The system enhances energy efficiency, reduces weight and complexity, and improves reliability by optimizing motor engagement, eliminating the need for clutches and axle disconnect mechanisms, while maintaining efficient power delivery across varying operating conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a set of VFMMs connected to one or more drivetrains, the set of VFMMs being configured to convert kinetic energy of a gear train into electric power or vice-versa
Implementation Method 2
a controller configured to selectively change a magnetization state of one or more VFMMs from the set of VFMMs based on power requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A system for multi-Variable Flux Memory Motor (VFMM) configuration includes a set of VFMMs connected to one or more drivetrains, the set of VFMMs being configured to convert kinetic energy of the one or more drivetrains into electric power or vice-versa. The system includes a controller configured to selectively change a magnetization state of one or more VFMMs from the set of VFMMs based on power requirements. The system changes the magnetization state of the set of VFMMs based on an optimal magnetization configuration determined for each power requirement.