SBIR-STTR Award

This SBIR Phase I research proposal will analyze, develop, and demonstrate a novel, optimized, high power density and high efficiency electric motor technology capable of operating at high speeds using Parallel Magnetic Circuit (PMC) technology. PMC technology is a breakthrough magnetic force control technology that is applicable to any electromagnetic device. Unlike "conventional" electro-magnetic motors and actuators, which use series magnetic circuits limited by the force of the most powerful single magnet element, PMC moves flux from multiple permanent magnets and field coils into a coherent and additive geometry - dramatically increasing both efficiency and power density. The proposed motor will have efficiency greater than 90 percent over a broad range of operating speeds with peak efficiency greater than 97 percent, operate at speeds in excess of 20,000 rpm, cost less than comparable existing permanent magnet motors, and require no active liquid cooling when operating within the designed parameters. These power generators have significant quantitative and qualitative advantages over the incumbent motors being used in the current variable speed applications. Their smaller size and ability to operate more efficiently over a wider range of operating speeds, as well as their ease of integration, installation, and projected reliability, would greatly increase electric motor viability in the commercial market. This would significantly increase the viability of electric drive trains and speed the adoption of efficient and environmentally sustainable electric vehicles

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project furthers the research and development of a completely new low cost high efficiency electric motor for use in HVAC compressors and transportation (electric and hybrid electric) power trains. Parallel Magnetic Circuit (PMC) technology is a breakthrough magnetic force control technology that is applicable to any electromagnetic device. Unlike alternative existing/conventional electric motors, which use series magnetic circuits limited by the flux density of the most powerful single magnet element, PMC moves flux from multiple permanent magnets and field coils into a coherent and additive geometry - dramatically increasing both efficiency and power density. The increased power density, efficiency and operating speeds intrinsic to PMC designs are enabling performance characteristics for HVAC and transportation systems providing lower cost, smaller, lighter weight, faster and more reliable alternatives. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project is to improve the efficiency of over $500 billion a year in electricity usage by up to 10% or more, the potential reduction of over 20% of the world?s coal fired electricity generation and the potential elimination of up to 30% of global CO2 emissions. Higher energy prices and usage have accelerated the growing global demand for lower cost energy efficient products. Since over 50% of all global electricity is consumed in electric motor systems and over 26% of fossil fuels are used in transportation applications, it provides a significant opportunity to reduce energy costs, pollution and national security concerns. PMC motors can be used to significantly increase the efficiency and lower the cost of all electric motor driven systems including electric and hybrid electric vehicles, HVAC systems, industrial, consumer, military applications