Asymmetrical multi-lane multi-phase motor drives | Available Intellectual Property | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Asymmetrical multi-lane multi-phase motor drives

RPI ID: 2014-004-201

Innovation Summary:
This technology provides a novel architecture for multi-phase motor drives featuring asymmetrical, isolated drive lanes. Each lane in the system can operate independently with a different number of phases and is supplied by its own inverter. This structural flexibility enhances fault tolerance and makes the system suitable for applications requiring high reliability. By separating the drive into lanes, a failure in one segment doesn't compromise the entire motor system. This approach offers improved modularity, configurability, and adaptability in critical systems. It also enables cost optimization by customizing lanes for different performance requirements.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Most existing motor drives are symmetrical and tightly coupled, leading to complete system failure if any single component fails. Industries like aerospace and electric vehicles need more resilient architectures. This invention enables the design of motor drives that can continue operation even during partial system failures. It opens opportunities for safer, more efficient, and adaptive systems in demanding environments.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ High fault tolerance
✔ Independent lane operation
✔ Modular and scalable architecture

Applications:
• Aerospace electric propulsion
• Electric vehicles
• Industrial motor control

Keywords:
#motorcontrol #faulttolerant #multiphase #asymmetricaldrive #electricpropulsion

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent 9,705,442
Patent Information:
Inventors:
Ali Mohammadpour
Leila Parsa
Keywords:
For Information, Contact:
Natasha Sanford
Licensing Associate
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
sanfon@rpi.edu