Basic Characteristics of In-Wheel Magnetic-Geared Motors

Abstract

This paper presents a feasibility study of an in-wheel magnetic-geared motor for walking support machines. The proposed magnetic-geared motor consists of an axial-gap permanent magnet (PM) motor and a magnetic gear. Axial-gap PM motors generally have larger torque than conventional radial-gap motors when their structures are flat like those in in-wheel motors. Moreover, the axial-gap PM motor was combined with magnetic gears since the in-wheel motor requires further large torque at low speed. The characteristics and usefulness of the proposed magnetic-geared motor are demonstrated through experiments and analysis conducted using finite element method (FEM). Key words: magnetic-geared motor, in-wheel, axial-gap, walking support machines 1. Introduction In Japan, aging population and lower birthrate are rapidly progressing in comparison with other developed countries. According to “Population Projections for Japan” published by National Institute of Population and Social Security Research