Dyson re-invents the electric motor

Engineers at Dyson have developed a fast, intelligent and carbon-free electric motor which has a power-to-weight ratio equal to that of a Ferrari sports car engine. Codenamed the X020, the motor is the first ultra high-speed switched reluctance motor to incorporate turbocharger aerodynamics and aerospace materials. X020 has no brushes, no magnets, no commutator, is up to three times faster than a typical vacuum cleaner and is much smaller. Fitted with embedded software, the new motor has diagnostic capabilities that allow it to manage energy efficiently and safely. There's also build data, usage and owner information, which can be quickly communicated to a call centre by holding a telephone handset to the device port or via the Internet. Dyson's director of research, design and development, Simeon Jupp commented: "We wanted to overcome the problems associated with existing motors, specifically brush, commutator and magnet failures. X020 has its origins in switched reluctance motor technology, but with its speed, size and diagnostic capabilities, it takes the science to a new level." For more information go to www.dyson.co.uk DP