Advancement of power technology using written-poleTM motors and generators-an overview

Written-pole^TM machine technology uses a method to change the magnetic polarity of the rotor field in a rotating machine, while the machine is operating. This effectively changes the number of poles and can produce a constant frequency-variable speed machine. There are numerous applications where this feature can be put to good use, and a few have been successfully developed. Two of these are important in improving power quality and in helping to reduce manufacturing costs for a variety of products. The paper introduces a written-pole uninterruptible power system that uses flywheel energy storage instead of electrochemical batteries. This system protects computers and other sensitive electronics. The paper also introduces a written-pole motor that rides through power blackouts of 10 to 20 seconds while delivering useful load. This is important to maintain critical processes such as conveyors, pumps and combustion air flow. Some written-pole machines are commercially available now, and this overview discusses those as well as plans for future applications for motors and generators