RPI ID:
2012-007-201, 2012-007-601
Innovation Summary: A high‑performance actuator motor architecture is introduced featuring an optimized permanent‑magnet rotor array designed to increase exterior flux while minimizing flux penetration into the rotor interior. This flux shaping reduces eddy‑current‑induced heating and mitigates the need for cooling systems while preserving high acceleration and holding torque. The system may incorporate dual motors mounted on a common rotor shaft, allowing them to drive an actuator independently or in tandem for performance redundancy and increased torque. In addition, methods are described for constructing hollow‑shaft rotors with optimized magnet placement and three‑phase stator windings to generate efficient rotating magnetic fields for demanding actuation tasks.
Challenges / Opportunities: Aircraft and other aerospace applications require actuators that deliver high torque and rapid acceleration without added system weight. Conventional permanent‑magnet motors generate unwanted eddy currents and thermal loads due to flux penetrating solid rotor back iron, forcing manufacturers to add size, weight, and cooling solutions. This technology provides an opportunity to significantly improve motor thermal performance and efficiency through flux‑optimized rotor design. Adoption may reduce system mass, improve reliability, and simplify thermal management in avionics, robotics, and other motion‑critical environments.
Key Benefits / Advantages: ✔ Reduced rotor heating through minimized interior flux penetration ✔ High acceleration and high holding torque without increasing motor size ✔ Dual‑motor configuration enables redundancy and/or combined torque output ✔ Lower system weight and reduced need for auxiliary cooling ✔ Improved reliability in high‑demand aerospace actuation environments
Applications: • Aircraft flight‑control actuation • Aerospace electromechanical actuators • Robotics requiring high‑torque, low‑weight motors • Industrial automation systems using precision permanent‑magnet drives
Keywords: permanent magnet motor, actuator motor, flux optimization, aerospace actuation, high‑torque drive, dual‑motor system
Intellectual Property: Issued US patent US8446121 Issued US patent US8710786