Advances in electric motors are needed to meet joint program goals for electric and hybrid electric vehicle auxiliary motor applications, such as for air conditioning compressors and fuel cell air compressors. Conventional methods for increasing motor power density, however, lead to difficult cooling requirements and increased cost. Conventional cost-reduction methods lead to reduced motor performance. A systems approach to the development of highly integrated, motor and electronic modules will allow optimization of electromagnetic, thermal, structural and control design parameters. This will provide required motor performance, while minimizing cost through high-volume production processes. These devices are referred to as Integrated Motion Modules (IMM). The research and development team will produce specifications for AC and fuel cell compressor IMMs, analyze motor and controller configurations, build physical models of selected IMM/compressor concepts, and develop a plan for future development. Emphasis will be placed on maximizing module power density and efficiency while minimizing cost in high-volume production. Technology from several parallel IMM-related efforts will be incorporated into this program to accelerate the development of commercial products. See http://www.katech.com for additional details.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Compressors and other auxiliary motors based on IMM research will lead to improved efficiency and performance of a wide range of automotive products.
