Electromagnet vehicle drive

US5788007A · kind A · utility

Inventor

• Fred Miekka · Sierra Madre, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 29, 1996
• Grant date: Aug 4, 1998
• Expiry date: Feb 29, 2016

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02T10/64
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A working geometry is provided between an electromagnet and permanent magnet, and a method for using such geometry is also provided which allows for electrically driving the wheel of a vehicle such as a bicycle with enough power to eliminate the need for pedalling. A system for electrically propelling a bicycle or other vehicle by placing permanent magnets on or adjacent the rim of the wheel or wheels, and having one or more electromagnets placed adjacent to them to drive the wheel. The electromagnet or electromagnets may be U-shaped with opposite end poles of each electromagnet extending close to the permanent magnets on opposite sides of the wheel. A sensor such as a reed switch or Hall effect device is used to sense the position of the magnets and properly time pulses of electricity into the electromagnet thus driving the wheel. A transistor interface between the sensor and drive electromagnet allows for driving the wheel without the wear normally associated with brushes. Successive permanent magnets mounted on the wheel are preferably oppositely poled to facilitate higher efficiency force application between the electromagnet or electromagnets and the permanent magnets.