The power wheel — Electromotive torque for vehicular applications

Abstract

The Power Wheel is a compact, self-contained motor in a wheel that establishes a torque drive. Dual-functioning circuitry that performs brushless commutation and polyphase rectification is also contained entirely within the wheel. Thus, with a substantial reduction in both the number of external control system components and mechanical drive-system couplings, this electric motor can power a 4-wheel-drive electric vehicle in normal driving modes and serve as a power-recovery generator during braking. Variable-speed operation of the motor in forward, neutral, and reverse thrust modes, as well as polyphase rectification of the induced voltage during generator operation, is principally directed by a microprogrammed controller. Utilization of state-of-the-art electronic devices in the controller circuitry has contributed to the compactness of the design, ease of fabrication, and reduction in the cost, complexity and number of components associated with motor and generator control system interfaces.