Abstract: A permanent magnet motor/generator that includes a stator, a rotor provided with a plurality of permanent magnets at a peripheral surface thereof and having a central axis which coincides with the central axis of the stator, a rotatable shaft upon which the rotor is coupled, and an actuator for moving the rotor with respect to the stator axially along the rotatable shaft a sufficient distance to completely decouple the rotor from the stator so as to eliminate magnet induced torque drag. When the permanent magnet/generator is used in parallel hybrid vehicles, the ability to completely decouple the rotor from the stator greatly improves range and efficiency. In addition, by progressively engaging the rotor with the stator a desired voltage output can be obtained upon deceleration.

Abstract: A brushless permanent magnet electric machine with a fixed radial air gap is operated to a much higher speed than normal maximum speed by the reduction in effective magnet pole strength. Permanent magnets are supported on the inner surface of an axially movable cylindrical shell. A plurality of magnetic poles provided with wire coils are supported on a stationary cylindrical member cooperate with the permanent magnets on the axially movable cylindrical shell to either cause, or react to, rotation of the axially movable cylindrical shell. The axially movable cylindrical shell and cylindrical member are coaxial. The cylindrical shell is axially movable with respect to the cylindrical member.

Abstract: A brushless permanent magnet electric machine with a fixed radial air gap is operated to a much higher speed than normal maximum speed by the reduction in effective magnet pole strength. Permanent magnets are supported on the inner surface of an axially movable cylindrical shell. A plurality of magnetic poles provided with wire coils are supported on a stationary cylindrical member cooperate with the permanent magnets on the axially movable cylindrical shell to either cause, or react to, rotation of the axially movable cylindrical shell. The axially movable cylindrical shell and cylindrical member are coaxial. The cylindrical shell is axially movable with respect to the cylindrical member.