Researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Marine Electric Propulsion, led by Yong Dai, have made significant strides in the development of a novel hybrid excitation machine (HEM) that could transform the electric vehicle (EV) market. Their study, published in the World Electric Vehicle Journal, investigates a flux-torque regulation hybrid excitation machine (FTRHEM) featuring an innovative axial-radial dual air gap design.
This new machine design aims to enhance torque output and improve magnetic flux regulation. In traditional permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs), the constant magnetomotive force can hinder effective magnetic field control, which is crucial for optimizing performance in various applications, especially in EVs. The FTRHEM, however, utilizes both permanent magnets and field windings, allowing for greater flexibility in regulating magnetic fields and, consequently, enhancing the machine’s efficiency.
Dai’s team established equivalent magnetic network models to analyze how the dual air gaps impact the machine’s performance. They found that as the axial air gap decreases, the flux regulation capability significantly improves—from 15.44% to 26.51%—and additional torque can increase by as much as 40.77%. This means that vehicles utilizing this technology could experience better acceleration and overall performance, making them more appealing to consumers.
“The axial air gap has a more significant effect on flux regulation capability and additional torque than the radial air gap,” Dai explained. This insight is crucial for manufacturers looking to optimize their designs for electric vehicles. The research indicates that adjusting the air gap length can lead to substantial improvements in performance, providing a pathway for engineers to enhance the efficiency of HEMs.
The implications of this research extend beyond just technical advancements. As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the demand for efficient and high-performing electric drivetrains is surging. The FTRHEM’s ability to provide better torque and flux regulation positions it as a competitive option in the growing EV market. Manufacturers could leverage this technology to create vehicles that not only meet regulatory standards but also exceed consumer expectations for performance and efficiency.
With the electric vehicle sector gaining momentum, innovations like the FTRHEM could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation. The research conducted by Dai and his team offers a promising avenue for further exploration and optimization, potentially leading to more powerful and efficient electric vehicles in the near future. This study underscores the importance of continued innovation in the energy sector, particularly as the world moves towards sustainable energy solutions.
