Axial gap motor with radially movable magnets to increase speed capablity

摘要

A brushless motor with axial air gaps is rotated at speeds higher than that of conventional motors by using magnets adjustable in the radial direction. The axial gap machine includes one or more stators, containing windings that conduct electrical currents, and one or more rotors, with sets of permanent magnets rotating on a shaft adjacent the stators. The magnets are supported by bearings in a magnet carrier on the rotor so that the magnets can move radially under the action of centrifugal force opposed by springs. The radial movement of the magnets reduces the number of lines of flux of the magnets that can interact with those created by the electrical currents flowing in the windings. Reducing the flux interaction allows an increase in the speed capability of the machine. Linear radial guides inside the magnet carrier restrict movement of the magnets in all directions other than the radial direction and stops limit outward and inward movement.