Magnetic Gears for Utility Actuation Gearbox Applications Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-115 Topic Title: Magnetic Gears for Utility Actuation Gearbox Applications Proposal No.: N102-115-1128 Firm: Davey Enterprises, Inc. 1844 Old Mission Rd Edgewater, Florida 32132 Contact: Kent Davey Phone: (386) 478-7125 Abstract: Although published magnetic gear designs have been demonstrated in various and sundry academic settings, none are viable for industrial scale / military applications. Yet the technology remains enticing. The favored solution involves a topology that capitalizes on a cycloidal operation, but with axial flux that allows the objectionable forces to be canceled. This favored topology operates with a single air gap between torque generating MMF sources and allows for a pseudo drive topology using a transverse (i.e., radial) flux operating in the strong normal direction. Note that the novel solution proposed has never appeared in literature and is proprietary to this team. This team has designed and constructed 3 versions of the planetary gear, the topology that has received the greatest attention in the literature. Two weaknesses are inherent to the operating principle. (1) It employs two air gaps, and (2) the central structure must be laminated and sustain torques equal to the sum of those on the high and low speed shafts. This team has just completed the construction of its 2nd generation axial flux cycloid gear. This topology can realize much higher torque ratios without cogging, and can be made to balance the primary forces the bearings. Benefits: The technology disclosed can transfer torque from high speed turbines to helicopter blades with 40:1 gear ratios. 60:1 can be achieved for smaller torque winch applications. The same technology developed in this proposal can be used in the wind industry to transfer torque at 12.5 rpm to 1200 rpm generator drives. The hydro industry has a similar problem; 1:10 gears are employed to accomplish a ten fold speed increase. Mechanical gears for both the wind and the Hydro industry are characterized by 5-7 year life spans. Longer term replacements for these critical components that required no lubrication would be most welcome in this industry. The same devices would serve a useful role in electric vehicle market as a replacement for the mechanical planetary gear used now. Return