Electric Machines with Adaptive Surge Impedance Modeling and Hardware Development
Abstract
Electric machines are used in various applications, from small portable electric devices, drones, and robots to electric transportat,ion. In more-electric transportation, the powertrain contains an electric machine fed by a propulsion drive through power cables. Th,eoretically, a mismatch between the surge impedance of the cables and the electric machine in these systems makes reflected waves, l,eading to the high-frequency voltage spikes at the machine terminals. Furthermore, medium- and high-voltage drives are typically des,ired to achieve a higher energy efficiency and power density of more electric powertrains, but which makes the voltage stress on ele,ctric machine insulation a severe problem. Modern drives equipped with the emerging wide-bandgap-based switches, applied for more co,mpactness and higher efficiency, also make the high-frequency overvoltage issue a problem even for short-length cables. In this coll,aborative project, a novel electric machine concept integrated with adaptive impedance coils will be developed for electric propulsi,on systems. Specifically, the surge impedance of the machine is controlled by small electronic circuits embedded in each phase of th,e machine structure. The embedded electronic circuits are self-powered and autonomously controlled to prevent the deterioration of t,he winding insulation of the machine. The University of Kentucky team develops the self-powered circuit, and the Kansas State Univer,sity team develops the adaptive control scheme for the circuit, whereas both teams will test and analyze the performance of the prop,osed technology on permanent magnet machines. This developed concept will be verified in both multi-physics simulations and lab-scal,e prototype experiments. The reliability of the overall electric propulsion systems will be significantly improved using the propose,d technology. The cable length restriction will be unconcerned, leading to more flexibility for the layout of electric propulsion sy,stems. The proposed technology will significantly benefit the electric propulsion systems of future-generation electric ships and ai,rplanes by providing flexibility on the layout of electric propulsion systems and allowing ultra-fast switching drives. This researc,h has a high potential to improve the competitiveness of the American motor-drive manufacturers in the global market, and accordingl,y, will benefit the national defense and the US economy. <Approved for Public Release>
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2022
- Source ID
- N000142212100
Entities
People
- Jiangbiao He
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Kentucky