Electrical generators have to run at constant speed to generate electrical energy at a fixed frequency. This creates difficulties when the driving power source has variable speed, such as with a wind mill. This project will develop a converter that employs a field system that compensates for speed variations, allowing for the economical generation of electricity from variable speed power sources. In Phase I, the magnetic design of the new machine will be finalized. Then a prototype five horse power experimental machine will be built and tested. The machine will be scaled to full size in Phase II. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The technology should result in the economic generation of electric power from natural sources such as wind mills.
