WARF TECHNOLOGIES

‘Electrostatic’ motors and generators make torque using moving plates and electrical fields. They are lighter and cheaper than conventional electromagnetic designs that rely on iron, copper windings and rare earth materials.

Electrostatic machines work well in small-scale microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), which allow extremely small gaps between rotor and stator elements. Larger scale machines require complex vacuum components that make manufacturing more difficult.

UW–Madison researchers have developed a versatile design for large-scale electrostatic machines. The new design features circular rows of pegs attached to plates and immersed in dielectric fluid. The pegs come in and out of alignments as the plates rotate. The shape, length and positioning of the pegs can be varied as needed to achieve higher torque.

• Industrial/automation machines (where servo electric motors are used)

• Works in macroscale devices
• Eliminates costly vacuum components
• Smooth, consistent torque
• Simplifies manufacturing
• Versatile design

Simulations and modeling.

For More Information About the Inventors

• Daniel Ludois

Tech Fields

• Engineering : Electric machines