Abstract: A magnetic thrust bearing having a high speed rotation capability and low cost construction. The magnetic thrust bearing has permanent magnets to provide bias flux. The magnetic circuits of the control flux and bias fluxes are substantially non-coincident, which allows for a low reluctance and efficient path for the control flux. The flux paths of the permanent magnets are completely defined with minimized airgaps for achieving higher forces and efficiency and very low control currents produce extremely large forces. No radially magnetized permanent magnets are required and no permanent magnets are attached to the rotor.

Abstract: An improved magnetic bearing that uses permanent magnets to provide the bias flux. The magnetic circuits generating the control flux and bias fluxes are substantially non-coincident but share the same path over some portions that include radial and axial airgaps allowing for a low reluctance and an efficient path for the electromagnetic flux. The flux paths of the permanent magnets are completely defined with minimized airgaps for achieving higher forces and efficiency and very low control currents that produce extremely large forces. A single coil and amplifier for the axial force control and two coils with one associated amplifier for each radial axis of control provides simplicity and cost effectiveness. A single thrust disk is provided that is reacted against for both radial and the axial displacement.

Abstract: A magnetic thrust bearing having a high speed rotation capability and low cost construction. The magnetic thrust bearing has permanent magnets to provide bias flux. The magnetic circuits of the control flux and bias fluxes are substantially non-coincident, which allows for a low reluctance and efficient path for the control flux. The flux paths of the permanent magnets are completely defined with minimized airgaps for achieving higher forces and efficiency and very low control currents produce extremely large forces. No radially magnetized permanent magnets are required and no permanent magnets are attached to the rotor.

Abstract: A brake mechanism includes an inner assembly secured to a motor shaft and an outer assembly surrounding the inner assembly. The outer assembly includes a permanent magnet or an electromagnet between a pair of ferromagnetic pole structures. The inner assembly also includes a pair of ferromagnetic pole structures. During operation of the brake mechanism, the inner assembly is rotated relative to the outer assembly, and the pole structures cause a magnetic field within the inner assembly to pulsate. The pulsating magnetic field causes the inner assembly to apply a braking torque to the shaft.

Abstract: An electrical machine includes both a permanent magnet source of field excitation and an electromagnetic source of field excitation. The electrical machine also includes a homopolar rotor, which carries the permanent magnet source, and a lamination stack having a middle portion and outer portions. The homopolar rotor and the middle portion of the lamination stack conduct flux generated by the permanent magnet source. The homopolar rotor and the outer portions of the lamination stack conduct flux generated by the electromagnetic source when the electromagnetic source is energized.