Abstract: A permanent magnet rotor for a brushless machine includes retainer rings to provide additional magnet retention when the magnets are stacked lengthwise along the rotor. The retainer ring seats into a groove formed on the outer surfaces of two magnets where they abut. Furthermore, end rings seated into an undercut area of the outer surface of the magnet edge at the ends of the rotor provide additional magnet retention.

Abstract: A motor wheel apparatus having an integral reduction planetary gearset is steerable and adapted for use in a conventional independently sprung automotive suspension. The motor, gearset and wheel elements are mounted on a single steerable support member to minimize the tolerance stack up and to enable independent servicing of the motor and gearset elements. The output element of the gearset is supported solely by virtue of the gear meshes and a splined connection to the wheel, thereby permitting the output element to self-align with the wheel and isolating the wheel forces from the motor and gearset elements.

Abstract: A bistable actuator comprising a permanent magnet assembly secured to an armature shaft and a pair of core elements axially disposed on either side of the permanent magnet assembly. The cores have axially opposed inner and outer annular extensions defined in each core by a central axial opening which supports the armature shaft and an annular recess in which is received an electrical coil. The permanent magnet assembly comprises inner and outer annular axially magnetized permanent magnets radially spaced by a ferromagnetic ring so as to be aligned with the inner and outer core extensions.