ELECTRICAL MACHINE

Abstract

An electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to the stator with an air gap therebetween is disclosed. The stator is provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the stator. The rotor is provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the rotor. The magnetic sources of at least one plurality are electromagnets; each electromagnet comprises at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet conductor. The magnetic conductor comprises at least one member made of magnetically isotropic and/or anisotropic materials.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to electrical machines with electromagnetic excitation and/or with excitation by permanent magnets, and, more specifically, to electrical machines provided with magnetic conductors made of magnetically isotropic and anisotropic materials and their combination to reduce losses in the aforesaid circuits.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Magnetic conductors of electric machines provide low magnetic reluctance when magnetic fluxes pass therethough. The magnetic fluxes are created by sources of magnetic field, specifically, an electromagnet coil and a permanent magnet. When the magnetic flux is conduct through the magnetic conductors, occurring losses define efficiency of an electrical machine.

A first group of losses is determined by and a configuration of magnetic conductor and a material from which the aforesaid magnetic conductor is made. These loses are heat generation when a slowly varying is conducted by the magnetic conductor. The losses are caused by eddy-currents (Foucault currents) and hysteresis losses (magnetic reversal). Herewith, a material of magnetic conductor should be characterized by high saturation magnetic induction.

To reduce eddy-current losses, the magnetic conductor is made of non-conductive material. For example, the magnetic conductor is stacked of steel stampings coated with non-conductive organosilicon polymers. The stampings are oriented in a certain manner relative to the magnetic flux which is conducted through the magnetic conductor. An alternative technical solution is a powdery ferromagnetic material comprising an isolating filling compound.

The hysteresis losses are reduced by use of materials characterized by a narrow hysteresis loop and high value of magnetic permeability. In the case of a magnetic conductor made of an anisotropic material, minimal losses appear along a direction of easy magnetization.

However, a classical arrangement of an electrical machine comprises a magnetic conductor made of rolled steel to which the magnets are connected. Referring to FIG. 8, a stator plate 180 of 4-pole electric machine cut from steel sheet laminated by organosilicon polymers. As seen in FIG. 8, only a portion of a magnetic flux Φ is parallel to a direction of easy magnetization.

Use of isotropic material is limited by technical problems with producing magnetic conductors of large dimension and complex configuration which link sources of magnetic field in the electric machine.

A second group of losses is attributed to the electrical machine with permanent magnets.

The permanent magnets are demagnetized under influence of magnetic fluxes of the electromagnets. The aforesaid demagnetization results in depression of magnetic flux and, correspondingly, decrease in rotational torque and power.

Additionally, in the electrical machines with permanent magnets, a cogging torque ripple makes starting of the electrical machine from rest difficult and slows it down at work. The permanent magnets are in an effort to be in position corresponding to minimal reluctance of a closed path of magnetic flux.

In accordance with the abovementioned discussion, reduction of losses of the first and second groups is a long-felt and unmet need which is relevant to both electric-power production by an electrical generator and electric energy consumption by an electrical motor. Specifically, as to the electrical machine with permanent magnets, a long-felt need is to prevent the aforesaid permanent magnets from demagnetization and reduce cogging torque ripple.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is hence one object of the invention to disclose an electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to the stator with an air gap therebetween. The aforesaid stator is provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the stator. The rotor is provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the rotor; the magnetic sources of at least one plurality being electromagnets. Each electromagnet comprises at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet conductor.

It is a core purpose of the invention to provide the conductor comprises at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnetically isotropic material, a magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof. The isotropic and anisotropic materials are characterized electric resistance more than about 10⁶ Ohm·m, coercitive force less than about 100 A·m⁻¹, relative magnetic permeability more than about 3000 and saturation magnetic induction more than about 0.6 Tl at frequency lower than about 10000 Hz.

Another object of the invention is to disclose the conductor members made of the magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that a magnet flux created by the magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic sources of the first plurality which are electromagnets spaced over the stator. The magnetic sources of the second plurality are permanent magnets heteropolarly spaced over the rotor.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic sources of the first plurality permanent magnets which are heteropolarly spaced over the stator. The magnetic sources of the second plurality are electric magnets spaced over the rotor provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities which are electric magnets. The electric magnets of the second plurality are provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one plurality of the magnetic field sources magnetically independent between each other.

A further object of the invention is to disclose an orientation of an axis of the coil of each electric magnet of the first plurality selected from the group consisting of: an orientation sufficiently parallel to a rotation axis of the rotor, an orientation, sufficiently radially directed relative to the rotor, a circumferential orientation in a plane sufficiently perpendicular the rotation axis of the rotor and any combination thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic axes of at least a part of the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities which are parallel each other.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic axes of at least a part of the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities which are perpendicular each other.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic circuits of the magnetic sources of the second plurality which is disposed inside the magnetic sources of the first plurality.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic circuits of the magnetic sources of the first plurality which is disposed inside the magnetic sources of the second plurality.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the a shape of the magnetic circuits of the electric magnet selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the permanent magnets provided with extension members magnetically connected thereto; the extension members are adapted for shunting a magnetic flux generated by the electromagnets. The extension members are adapted for preventing the flux from passing though the permanent magnets when the permanent magnets face to neighbouring electromagnets so that transverse size of the extension members is greater than a distance between neighbouring electric magnets.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the extension members comprising at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of the magnetically isotropic material, the magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the extension members are made of the magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that a magnet flux created by the magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization.

A further object of the invention is to disclose a shape of the magnetic circuits of the source of magnetic field comprising the permanent magnet selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic source extension member of the second plurality adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of the magnetic sources of the first plurality selected from butt surface and side surface.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic source extension member of the first plurality adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of the magnetic sources of the second plurality selected from butt surface and side surface.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the electrical machine adapted for using as an electrical motor, wherein the air gap is peripherally located relative to the rotation axis the rotor.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the electrical machine adapted for using as an electrical motor of wheel drive of a vehicle. The second plurality of magnetic field sources of the rotor is mechanically connected to the wheel. The first plurality of magnetic field sources of the stator, is mechanically connected to a vehicle body.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the second plurality of magnetic field sources of the rotor fastened to a wheel axis. The first plurality of magnetic field sources of the stator is mechanically connected to a vehicle body.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the electrical machine adapted for using as an electrical generator. The air gap is proximately located relative to the rotation axis the rotor.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the first and second pluralities layered so that layers pertaining to the first and second pluralities are interlayered therebetween.

A further object of the invention is to disclose a number of magnetic sources which is constant for each layer.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the number of magnetic sources which is variable for each layer.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the number of magnetic sources which increases with a layer radius.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the layer of circumferentially spaced magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities which are angularly displaced relative to each other in a successive manner so that an angular displacement between each previous and subsequent layer is less than a polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each previous layer angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous layer angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined angle which equals to the polar pitch divided by a number of the layers.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the electrical machine having a sliced structure; electrical machine comprising slices spaced along the shaft axis. Each slice comprises magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities facing each other.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the rotor comprising a plurality of projections carrying the magnetic field sources of the second plurality at both sides thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the stator comprising a plurality of projections carrying the magnetic field sources of the first plurality at both sides thereof.

A further object of the invention is to disclose a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice which is constant.

A further object of the invention is to disclose a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice which is variable.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities spaced along a subsequent section angularly displaced relative to magnetic sources spaced along previous section for an angular distance φ which is less than a polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the magnetic sources of the second pluralities of each previous section angularly displaced relative to each subsequent section so that an angular displacement between each previous and subsequent sections is less than a polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous section angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent section for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined angle which equals to the polar pitch divided by a number of the sections.

A further object of the invention is to disclose a method of use of an electrical machine; the aforesaid method comprises the steps of

• • (a) providing a electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to said stator with an air gap therebetween; the stator provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the stator; the rotor provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the rotor; the magnetic sources of at least one plurality being electromagnets; each electromagnet comprising at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet conductor;
  • (b) converting electrical energy into rotation of a machine shaft or inversely;

It is a core purpose of the invention to provide the conductor provided with at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnetically isotropic material, a magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof; said isotropic and anisotropic materials are characterized by an electric resistance greater than about 10⁶ Ohm·m, coercitive force less than about 100 A·m⁻¹, relative magnetic permeability greater than about 3000 and saturation magnetic induction greater than about 0.6 Tl at a frequency lower than about −10000 Hz.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

• 100 electrical machine
• 110 permanent magnet
• 112 pole extension of the permanent magnet
• 113 magnetic conductor of the permanent magnet
• 115 pole extension of the magnetic conductor of the permanent magnet
• 120 electromagnet
• 122 electromagnet coil
• 123 magnetic conductor of the electromagnet
• 125 pole extension of the magnetic conductor of the electromagnet
• 127 brushes interconnecting the electromagnet coil and the commutator
• 130 rotational axis (shaft)
• 140 rotor
• 143 magnetic source disposed at the rotor
• 145 rotor base made of the non-magnetic material
• 150 stator
• 153 magnetic source disposed at the stator
• 155 stator base made of the non-magnetic material
• 160 gap between magnetic sources of the stator and the rotor
• 170 magnetic conductor made of the isotropic material
• 180—magnetic conductor made of the anisotropic material
• 190—direction of easy magnetization
• 200—axis of magnetization of the magnetic source
• Φ magnetic flux created by the magnetic source
• Φ_em magnetic flux created by the electromagnet
• Φ_pm—magnetic flux created by the permanent magnet

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a plurality of embodiments is adapted to now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the electrical machine adapted for use as an electrical drive in the vehicle;

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the electrical machine depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the U-like magnetic field source provided with the I-like magnetic field source in the interior;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of the magnetic conductor of the electromagnet;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the permanent magnet provide with the pole extensions;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a magnetic conductor comprising a plurality of electrical steel;

FIG. 7 a schematic view of the U-like magnetic field source provided with the I-like magnetic field source in the interior; electromagnet pole extensions re made of magnetically isotropic material;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the path of the magnetic flux in the electric machine;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of electrical machine provided with the permanent magnets of the second plurality which are disposed inside the electrical magnets of the first plurality.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of electrical machine provided with electrical magnets of the second plurality and brushes which are disposed inside the electrical magnets of the first plurality;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of electrical machine provided with electrical magnets of the second plurality and brushes which are disposed inside the permanent magnets of the first plurality;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the electrical machine provided with the axis of magnetization of the electromagnet which is parallel to the shaft axis of the rotor;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the electrical machine provided with the axis of magnetization of the electromagnet which is radially oriented to the shaft axis of the rotor;

FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the electrical machine provided with the axis of magnetization of the electromagnet which is circumferentially configured in the plane perpendicular to the shaft axis of the rotor;

FIG. 15 is a isometric view of the electrical machine provided with the sources of magnetic field of the first plurality shaped in a U-like form and the sources of the second plurality shaped in an I-like form;

FIG. 16 is a side isometric view of the electrical machine from a side of the stator of the electrical machine;

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of the paths of magnetic fluxes Φ_em and Φ_pm of the electrical machine;

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the I-like magnetic conductor of the electromagnet made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 19 is a schematic view of the U-like magnetic conductor of the electromagnet made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of the C-like magnetic conductor of the electromagnet made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 21 is a schematic view of the T-like magnetic conductor of the electromagnet made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 22 is a schematic view of the X-like magnetic conductor of the electromagnet made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 23 is a schematic view of the I-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet and the magnetic conductor made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of the U-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet and the magnetic conductor made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 25 is a schematic view of the C-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet and the magnetic conductor made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 26 is a schematic view of the T-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet and the magnetic conductor made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 27 is a schematic view of the X-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet and the magnetic conductor made of isotropic and anisotropic materials;

FIG. 28 is a schematic view of the pole extensions of the magnetic conductors made of the isotropic material;

FIG. 29 is a schematic view of the pole extensions of the magnetic conductors made of the anisotropic material;

FIG. 30 is a schematic view of the pole extension of the magnetic circuits of the permanent magnet;

FIG. 31 is a schematic view of the pair of pole extensions with magnetic flux flowing through butt surfaces;

FIGS. 32 and 33 are schematic views of the pair of pole extensions with magnetic flux flowing through butt and side surfaces;

FIGS. 34 and 35 are schematic diagrams of paths of magnetic fluxes Φ_em and Φ_pm of the electrical machine provide with the electromagnets of the U-like form as magnetic sources of the first plurality and the permanent magnets the I-like form as magnetic sources of the second plurality;

FIG. 36 is an exploded view of the electrical machine adapted for use as a motor-in-wheel;

FIG. 37 is an isometric view of the electrical machine provided with electromagnet coil axes parallel to the rotor axis;

FIGS. 38 and 39 are schematic views of the electrical machine having two layers;

FIG. 40 is a schematic view of the electrical machine having two layers angularly displaced one relative to another with variable pole number.

FIGS. 41, 42 and 43 are schematic views of the electrical machine having two sections angularly displaced one relative to another; and

FIGS. 44 to 104 are schematic diagrams of the magnetic circuits of the electrical machine.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of said invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, are adapted to remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide electrical machines provided-with-magnetic conductors made of magnetically isotropic and anisotropic material to reduce losses in the aforesaid conductors.

The term “polar pitch τ” hereinafter refers to a portion of an electrical machine armature (rotor or stator) which falling on one pole. Specifically, τ=D/2p, where D is an armature diameter and 2p is a number of main poles in the electrical machine. The diameter D is measured in an area of the air gap in degrees.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1, presenting an electrical machine 100 adapted for use as an electrical engine in a drive of a shaft 130 in a vehicle (not shown). The electrical engine 100 comprises four sections. A first plurality of magnetic field sources 153 of a stator is fixed to a vehicle body (not shown). A second plurality of magnetic field sources 143 of a rotor is fixed to a wheel shaft 130.

In most of the drawings, the electrical machine 100, the coils of the electromagnets, housing elements and end shields are not shown to simplify understanding of the proposed technical solution.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2, presenting a cross-sectional view of one of the sections of the aforesaid electrical machine 100. The magnetic field sources of the first plurality comprise electromagnets 120 provided with pole extensions 125. The magnetic field sources of the second plurality are permanent magnet 110 with pole extensions 115 which are mechanically connected to a rotor base 145 rotatably disposed on an axis 130 inside the extensions 125 with an air gap 160. The magnetic field sources of the first plurality are configured into a U-like shape while magnetic field sources of the second plurality into an I-like shape.

Reference-is-now made to FIG. 3, showing an exemplary non-limiting embodiment of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 configured into I- and U-like shape such that the magnetic field source 143 is disposed inside the source 153. The constant air gap 160 in the course of electrical machine operation is provided by radii R1, R2, R3 R4. The Path of the magnetic flux Φ substantially keeps along a direction of easy magnetization 190.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4, presenting a magnetic conductor of the electromagnet 120 (not shown) of the source 153 (not shown). The aforesaid conductor comprises a magnetic conductor of the electromagnet coil (electromagnet core) 123 and pole extensions 125. The elements 123 and 125 constitute stacked electric steel sheets 180 which are characterized by magnetic anisotropy.

Reference is now made to FIG. 5, showing the magnetic field source 143 comprising the permanent magnet 110 provided with the pole extensions 115. The aforesaid extensions 115 constitute stacked electric steel sheets 180 which are characterized by magnetic anisotropy.

Reference is now made to FIG. 6, presenting electric steel sheets stacked into packs of the magnetic conductors 115 and 123 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5. Variable cross section of the magnetic conductor 115 is resulted from difference between radii R2 R3 shown in FIG. 3.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7, showing an exemplary non-limiting embodiment of the magnetic field source 153 of U-like form (electromagnet coil is not shown) which comprises the core 123 stacked of electrical steel sheets and extensions 125 made of magnetically isotropic material. Inside the source 153, the I-like magnetic field source 143 is disposed. The path of the magnetic flux Φ coincides with direction of easy magnetization 190 in all elements of the magnetic circuit which are made of the anisotropic electrical steel sheets 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 8, presenting a path of the magnetic flux Φ in stator magnetic circuit which is made of a magnetically anisotropic material. As seen in FIG. 8, the path of the magnetic flux just partially goes along the direction of easy magnetization 190.

Reference is now made to FIG. 9, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 provided with the permanent magnet 110 of the second plurality 143 disposed inside the electromagnet 120 of the first plurality 153.

Reference is now made to FIG. 10, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 provided with the electromagnet of the second plurality 143 provided with brushes 127 which is disposed inside the electromagnet of the first plurality 153.

Reference is now made to FIG. 11, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 provided with the electromagnet of the second plurality 143 provided with the brushes 127 which is disposed inside the magnetic source 153 comprising the permanent magnet 110.

Reference is now made to FIG. 12, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 wherein an axis of magnetization 200 of the electromagnet 120 is parallel to the shaft axis 130 of the rotor 140.

Reference is now made to FIG. 13, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 wherein an axis of magnetization 200 of the electromagnet 120 is radially oriented to the shaft axis 130 of the rotor 140.

Reference is now made to FIG. 14, showing a design solution of the electrical machine 100 wherein an axis of magnetization 200 of the electromagnet 120 is circumferentially configured in a plane perpendicular to the shaft axis 130 of the rotor 140.

Reference is now made to FIG. 15, presenting an electrical machine 100 comprising a rotor 140. Sources of magnetic field of a first plurality 153 are electromagnets 120. Sources of magnetic field of a second plurality 143 are permanent magnets 110. The sources of magnetic field of the first plurality 153 shaped in a U-like form, while the sources 143 of the second plurality are shaped in an I-like form. The sources 143 are disposed inside the sources 153.

Reference is now made to FIG. 16, presenting a view from a side of the stator 150 of the electrical machine 100.

Reference is now made to FIG. 17, showing paths of magnetic fluxes Φ_em and Φ_pm of the electrical machine 100.

Reference is now made to FIG. 18, showing a design solution of an I-like magnetic conductor 123 of the electromagnet 120 made of an isotropic material 170 and an anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 19, showing a design solution of a U-like magnetic conductor 123 of the electromagnet 120 made of an isotropic material 170 and an anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 20, showing a design solution of a C-like magnetic conductor 123 of the electromagnet 120 made of an isotropic material 170 and an anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 21, showing a design solution of a T-like magnetic conductor 123 of the electromagnet 120 made of an isotropic material 170 and an anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 22, showing a design solution of an X-like magnetic conductor 123 of the electromagnet 120 made of an isotropic material 170 and an anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 23, showing design solutions of an I-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet 110 and the magnetic conductor 113 made of the isotropic material 170 and the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 24, showing design solutions of a U-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet 110 and the magnetic conductor 113 made of the isotropic material 170 and the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 25, showing design solutions of a C-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet 110 and the magnetic conductor 113 made of the isotropic material 170 and the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 26, showing design solutions of a T-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet 110 and the magnetic conductor 113 made of the isotropic material 170 and the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 27, showing design solutions of an X-like magnetic source comprising the permanent magnet 110 and the magnetic conductor 113 made of the isotropic material 170 and the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 28, showing design solutions of a pole extension of the magnetic conductors 115 and 125 of the magnetic conductors 113 and 123 made of the isotropic material 170.

Reference is now made to FIG. 29, showing design solutions of pole extensions 115 and 125 of the magnetic conductors 113 and 123 made of the anisotropic material 180.

Reference is now made to FIG. 30, showing design solutions of a pole extension of the magnetic circuits 112 of the permanent magnet 110.

Reference is now made to FIG. 31, showing a design solution of a pair of pole extensions 112 or 115 and 125 in any combination thereof such that a shape of pole extensions provides conduction of the magnetic flux through butt surfaces of the aforesaid extensions.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 32 and 33, showing a design solution of a pair of pole extensions 112 or 115 and 125 in any combination thereof such that a shape of pole extensions provides conduction of the magnetic flux through butt and side surfaces of the aforesaid extensions.

Reference is now made to FIG. 34, showing paths of magnetic fluxes Φ_em and Φ_pm of the electrical machine 100. The magnetic sources of the first plurality 153 are the electromagnets 120. The magnetic sources of the second plurality 143 are the permanent magnets 110. The magnetic source 153 is shaped into a U-like form. The magnetic source 143 is shaped into an I-form and disposed inside of the magnetic source 153. The permanent magnet 110 is provided with pole extension 115 and is disposed between two electromagnets 120. A circumferential length of the pole extension 115 is longer than a distance between two neighboring electromagnets 120.

Reference is now made to FIG. 35, showing paths of magnetic fluxes Φ_em and Φ_pm of the electrical machine 100. The magnetic sources of the first plurality 153 are the electromagnets 120. The magnetic sources of the second plurality 143 are the permanent magnets 110. The magnetic source 153 is shaped into a U-like form. The magnetic source 143 is shaped into an I-form and disposed inside of the magnetic source 153. The permanent magnet 110 is provided with pole extension 115 and is disposed inside the electromagnet 120. A circumferential length of the pole extension 115 is longer than a distance between two neighboring electromagnets 120.

Reference is now made to FIG. 36, showing the electrical machine 100 adapted for use as a motor-in-wheel of a vehicle. The second plurality of the magnetic field sources 143 of the rotor 140 is mechanically fixed to a wheel crown 145, while the first plurality of the magnetic field sources 153 of stator 150 is mechanically fixed to a vehicle body (stator disk 155).

Reference is now made to FIG. 37, presenting the electrical machine which is provided with the coils 122 of the electromagnets 120 (not marked). Axes of the aforesaid coils 122 are parallel to the rotational axis of the rotor (not shown). Electromagnets 120 belong to the first plurality of the magnetic field sources 153 of the stator 150 (not shown). The permanent magnets 110 fixed to the magnetic conductors 113 and provided with pole extensions 115 belong to the second plurality of magnetic field sources 143 (not marked) of the rotor 140 (not shown).

Reference is now made to FIGS. 38-39, presenting the electrical machine 100 having two layers. Both layers are provided with an equal number of the magnet sources (2p=6).

Reference is now made to FIG. 40, presenting the electrical machine 100 having two layers angularly displaced one relative to another through φ₁. A first layer proximately disposed to the shaft axis 130 has 2p=6, the second layer has 2p=10.

Reference is now made to FIG. 41, presenting the electrical machine 100 having four sections angularly displaced one relative to another through φ₂. Each section is provided with two layers presented in FIG. 40.

Reference is now made to FIG. 42, presenting the electrical machine 100 presented in FIG. 41. The sections are spaced apart therebetween along the shaft axis 130.

Reference is now made to FIG. 43, presenting the electrical machine provided with magnetic field sources of the second plurality 143 (not marked) which are mechanically connected at both sides of rotor elements 145. The magnetic sources disposed at different sides of the elements 145 are angularly displaced from each other. The angular displacement φ₁ equals to τ/m, where τ is a value of a polar pitch, m equals to 2 (section number). To simplify understanding of the present embodiment, in FIG. 43, two electromagnets are not shown.

Reference is now made to FIG. 44, presenting symbol legend used for depicting magnetic circuits in the electrical machine. Specifically, the numeral 1 refers to an axis of a electrical machine shaft, 2 to a magnetic conductor, 3 to an electromagnet coil, 4 to an electromagnet coil provided with a core, 5 to a permanent magnet, 6 to a permanent magnet provided with polar extensions, 7 to permanent magnets interconnected by a magnetic conductor, 8 to a magnetic conductor provided with polar extensions.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 45 to 104, presenting diagrams of magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100 and spatial arrangements of the magnetic field sources 153 and 143 of the first and second pluralities, respectively, relative to the shaft axis 130. The magnetic field sources 153 and 143 comprise electromagnets 120 and permanent magnets 110.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 45-49 and 93-104, presenting diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the magnetic field sources are independent of each other.

FIGS. 47 and 48 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 are parallel to the rotor axis 130.

FIGS. 45 and 46 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 are radially directed to the rotor axis 130.

FIGS. 74 and 75 present diagrams of the magnetic, circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 153 are circularly-oriented in a plane which is perpendicular to the rotor axis 130.

FIGS. 45-49 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 are parallel.

FIGS. 50-54 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 are perpendicular.

FIG. 71 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein axes of magnetization 200 of the magnetic field sources 143 and 153 are parallel and perpendicular, respectively.

FIGS. 45 to 49 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the magnetic field sources 143 and are disposed inside the magnetic field sources 153.

FIGS. 58 and 63 present diagrams of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the magnetic field sources 153 and are disposed inside the magnetic field sources 143.

FIGS. 46, 48 and 51 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100 adapted for use as an electrical motor.

FIGS. 47, 49, 50 and 54 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100 adapted for use as an electrical generator.

FIGS. 93 to 104 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the permanent magnet 110 is provided with the polar extensions 115.

FIGS. 97 to 104 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the magnetic flux passes through the air gap between the flat surfaces of the magnetic conductors.

FIGS. 93 to 96 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the magnetic flux passes through the air gap between the three-dimensionally configured surfaces of the magnetic conductors.

FIGS. 75, 77, and 82-85 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the aforesaid circuits are configured as layers.

FIGS. 86 to 89 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the aforesaid circuits are configured as sections.

FIGS. 91 and 92 present schemes of the magnetic circuits in the electrical machine 100, wherein the aforesaid circuits are configured as layers and sections.

It should be understood that in FIGS. 45-104 in the magnetic circuits of the electrical machine 100, the magnetic sources 143 and 153 comprising the permanent magnets 110 and/or electromagnets 120 presented in FIGS. 9-11. FIGS. 45-92 in the magnetic circuits of the electrical machine 100, one or both poles 112 of the permanent magnet 110 face through gaps 160 the poles 125 of the electromagnets 120. The polar extensions 112, 115125 are presented in FIGS. 28-3395-104.

In accordance with the current invention, an electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to the stator with an air gap therebetween is disclosed. The stator is provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the stator. The rotor is provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field which is equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the rotor. The magnetic sources of at least one plurality are electromagnets. Each electromagnet comprises at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet circuit. The circuit comprises at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnetically isotropic material, a magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof.

The elements of magnetic conductor made of magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that the magnetic flux of magnetic sources goes along the direction of easy magnetization. The material is characterized electric resistance more than about 10⁶ Ohm·m, coercitive force less than about 100 A·m⁻¹, relative magnetic permeability more than about 3000 and saturation magnetic induction more than about 0.6 Tl at frequency lower than about 10000 Hz.

In accordance with one embodiment of the current invention, the circuit members made of a magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that a magnet flux created by the magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization.

In accordance with another embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic sources of the first plurality are electromagnets spaced over the stator. The magnetic sources of the second plurality are permanent magnets heteropolarly spaced over the rotor.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic sources of the first plurality are permanent magnets heteropolarly spaced over the stator. The magnetic sources of the second plurality are electric magnets spaced over the rotor provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities are electric magnets. The electric magnets of the second plurality are provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, at least one plurality of the magnetic field sources is magnetically independent between each other.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, an orientation of an axis of the coil of each electric magnet of the first plurality is selected from the group consisting of: an orientation sufficiently parallel to a rotation axis of the rotor, an orientation, sufficiently radially directed relative to the rotor, a circumferential orientation in a plane sufficiently perpendicular the rotation axis of the rotor and any combination thereof.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, magnetic axes of at least a part of the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities are parallel each other.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, magnetic axes of at least a part of the magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities are perpendicular each other.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic circuits of the magnetic sources of the second plurality are disposed inside the magnetic sources of the first plurality.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic circuits of the magnetic sources of the first plurality are disposed inside the magnetic sources of the second plurality.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a shape of the magnetic circuits of the electric magnet is selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the permanent magnets are provided with extension members magnetically connected thereto; the extension members are adapted for shunting a magnetic flux generated by the electromagnets. The extension members are adapted for preventing the flux from passing though the permanent magnets when the permanent magnets face to neighbouring electromagnets so that transverse size of the extension members is greater than a distance between neighbouring electric magnets. It is experimentally confirmed that, the proposed technical solution provides reduction of cogging torque ripple. Additionally, resistance of the permanent magnets to demagnetization is improved, due to affection of oppositely directed magnetic fields and temperature.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the polar extensions are made from a material selected from the group consisting of a magnetically isotropic material, a magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof. The polar extensions are configured so that the magnetic flux of magnetic sources goes along the direction of easy magnetization. The material is characterized electric resistance more than about 10⁶ Ohm·m, coercitive force less than about 100 A·m⁻¹, relative magnetic permeability more than about 3000 and saturation magnetic induction more than about 0.6 Tl at frequency lower than about 10000 Hz.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention the extension members are made of the magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that a magnet flux created by the magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a shape of the magnetic circuits of the source of magnetic field comprising the permanent magnet is selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof. The proposed technical solutions provide reduction of losses due to hysteresis losses and Foucault currents.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic source extension member of the second plurality is adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of the magnetic sources of the first plurality selected from butt surface and side surface.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the magnetic source extension member of the first plurality is adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of the magnetic sources of the second plurality selected from butt surface and side surface. This technical solution provides reduction in magnetic saturation in the polar extensions 115 and 125 and leakage flux.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the electrical machine is adapted for using as an electrical motor. The air gap is peripherally located relative to the rotation axis the rotor. This technical solution results in increase in a moment arm, a rotational torque, and a motor output.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the electrical machine is adapted for using as an electrical motor of wheel drive of a vehicle. The second plurality of magnetic field sources of the rotor is mechanically connected to the wheel. The first plurality of magnetic field sources of the stator is mechanically connected to a vehicle body.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the second plurality of magnetic field sources of the rotor is fastened to a wheel shaft. The first plurality of magnetic field sources of the stator is mechanically connected to a vehicle body.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the electrical machine is adapted for using as an electrical generator. The air gap is proximately located relative to the rotation axis the rotor. This technical solution results in increase in a parasite rotational torque which spins down the generator.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the first and second pluralities are layered so that layers pertaining to the first and second pluralities are interlayered therebetween.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a number of magnetic sources is constant for each layer.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a number of magnetic sources is variable for each layer.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the number of magnetic sources increases with layer radius.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the layers of circumferentially spaced magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities are angularly displaced relative to each other in a successive manner so that an angular displacement φ between each previous and subsequent layer is less than a polar pitch τ.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each previous layer are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than polar pitch.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous layer are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the predetermined angle equals to the polar pitch divided by a number of said layers.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the electrical machine has a sliced structure. The electrical machine comprises slices spaced along the shaft axis; each slice comprises magnetic sources of the first and second pluralities facing each other.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the rotor comprises a plurality of projections carrying the magnetic field sources of the second plurality at both sides thereof.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the stator comprises a plurality of projections carrying the magnetic field sources of the first plurality at both sides thereof.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice is constant.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice is variable.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, magnetic sources spaced along a succedent slice is angularly displaced relative to magnetic sources spaced along previous slice for an angular distance φ which is less than a polar pitch τ.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous section are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent section for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each previous section are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each subsequent section for a predetermined angle which is less than the polar pitch.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, the predetermined angle equals to the polar pitch divided by a number of the sections.

It should be emphasized that angular displacement of the magnetic sources spread over the layers and/or sections through the aforesaid angle results in reduction of cogging torque ripple. The disclosed electrical motor arrangement provides easy starting independently on relative position of the stator and rotor.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the current invention, a method of use of an electrical machine is disclosed. The aforesaid method comprises the steps of

• • (c) providing a electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to said stator with an air gap therebetween; the stator provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the stator; the rotor provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over the rotor; the magnetic sources of at least one plurality being electromagnets; each electromagnet comprising at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet conductor; and
  • (d) converting electrical energy into rotation of a machine shaft or inversely;

The conductor is provided with at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of a magnetically isotropic material, a magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof; said isotropic and anisotropic materials are characterized by an electric resistance greater than about 10⁶ Ohm·m, coercitive force less than about 100 A·m⁻¹; relative magnetic permeability greater than about 3000 and saturation magnetic induction greater than about 0.6 Tl at a frequency lower than about 10000 Hz.

Claims

1-78. (canceled)

79. An electrical machine comprising a stator and a rotor rotatable relative to said stator with an air gap therebetween; said stator provided with a first plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over said stator; said rotor provided with a second plurality of sources of magnetic field equally spaced in a circumferential configuration over said rotor; said magnetic sources of at least one plurality being electromagnets; each electromagnet comprising at least one magnet coil resting on a magnet conductor; wherein said conductor comprises at least one anisotropically configured member which is oriented such that a magnet flux created by said magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization of said member.

80. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said magnetic sources of said first plurality are electromagnets spaced over the stator; said magnetic sources of said second plurality are permanent magnets heteropolarly spaced over said rotor.

81. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said magnetic sources of said first plurality are permanent magnets heteropolarly spaced over said stator; said magnetic sources of said second plurality are electric magnets spaced over said rotor provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

82. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities are electric magnets; said electric magnets of said second plurality are provided with coils connected with a commutator by means of brushes.

83. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein at least one plurality of said magnetic field sources are magnetically independent between each other.

84. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein an orientation of an axis of said coil of each electric magnet of said first plurality is selected from the group consisting of: an orientation sufficiently parallel to a rotation axis of said rotor, an orientation, sufficiently radially directed relative to said rotor, a circumferential orientation in a plane sufficiently perpendicular said rotation axis of said rotor and any combination thereof.

85. The electrical machine according to claim 84, wherein magnetic axes of at least a part of said magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities are parallel each other.

86. The electrical machine according to claim 84, wherein magnetic axes of at least a part of said magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities are perpendicular each other.

87. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said magnetic circuits of said magnetic sources of said first plurality is disposed inside and are configured to encompass said magnetic sources of said second plurality.

88. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said magnetic circuits of said magnetic sources of said second plurality is disposed inside and are configured to encompass said magnetic sources of said first plurality.

89. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein a shape of said magnetic circuits of said electric magnet is selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof.

90. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said permanent magnets are provided with extension members magnetically connected thereto; said extension members are adapted for shunting a magnetic flux generated by said electromagnets; said extension members are adapted for preventing said flux from passing though said permanent magnets when said permanent magnets face to neighbouring electromagnets so that transverse size of said extension members is greater than a distance between neighbouring electric magnets.

91. The electrical machine according to claim 90, wherein said extension members comprise at least one member made of a material selected from the group consisting of said magnetically isotropic material, said magnetically anisotropic material and any combination thereof.

92. The electrical machine according to claim 90, wherein said extension members are made of said magnetically anisotropic material are configured so that a magnet flux created by said magnetic source is conducted along a direction of easy magnetization.

93. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein a shape of said magnetic circuits of said source of magnetic field comprising said permanent magnet is selected from the group consisting of an I-like shape; a U-like shape; a T-like shape; a C-like shape, X-like shape and any combination thereof.

94. The electrical machine according to claim 89, wherein said magnetic source extension member of said second plurality is adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of said magnetic sources of said first plurality selected from butt surface and side surface.

95. The electrical machine according to claim 89, wherein said magnetic source extension member of said first plurality is adapted for conducting a magnetic flux which passes through at least one surface of a core of said magnetic sources of said second plurality selected from butt surface and side surface.

96. The electrical machine according to claim 79 adapted for using as an electrical motor, wherein said air gap is peripherally located relative to said rotation axis said rotor.

97. The electrical machine according to claim 79 adapted for using as an electrical generator, wherein said air gap is proximately located relative to said rotation axis said rotor.

98. The electrical machine according to claim 79, wherein said first and second pluralities are layered so that layers pertaining to said first and second pluralities are interlayered therebetween.

99. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein a number of magnetic sources is constant for each layer.

100. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein a number of magnetic sources is variable for each layer.

101. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein said number of magnetic sources increases with layer radius.

102. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein said layer of circumferentially spaced magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities are angularly displaced relative to each other in a successive manner so that an angular displacement between each previous and subsequent layer is less than a polar pitch.

103. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein said spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each previous layer are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of second plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than said polar pitch.

104. The electrical machine according to claim 98, wherein said spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous layer are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent layer for a predetermined angle which is less than said polar pitch.

105. The electrical machine according to claim 103, wherein said predetermined angle equals to said polar pitch divided by a number of said layers.

106. The electrical machine according to claim 79, having a sliced structure; electrical machine comprising slices spaced along said shaft axis; each slice comprises magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities facing each other.

107. The electrical machine according to claim 106, wherein said rotor comprises a plurality of projections carrying said magnetic field sources of said second plurality at both sides thereof.

108. The electrical machine according to claim 106, wherein said stator comprises a plurality of projections carrying said magnetic field sources of said first plurality at both sides thereof.

109. The electrical machine according to claim 106, wherein a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice is constant.

110. The electrical machine according to claim 106, wherein a number of magnetic sources spaced along each slice is variable.

111. The electrical machine according to claim 106, wherein said magnetic sources of said first and second pluralities spaced along a subsequent slice is angularly displaced relative to magnetic sources spaced along previous slice for an angular distance φ which is less than a polar pitch.

112. The electrical machine according to claim 111, wherein said magnetic sources of said second pluralities of each previous section are angularly displaced relative to each subsequent section so that an angular displacement between each previous and subsequent section is less than a polar pitch.

113. The electrical machine according to claim 111, wherein said spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each previous section are angularly shifted relative to spaced magnetic sources of first plurality of each subsequent section for a predetermined angle which is less than said polar pitch.

114. The electrical machine according to claim 112, wherein said predetermined angle equals to said polar pitch divided by a number of said sections.