Permanent-magnet generator incorporating a variable-reluctance stator system

Abstract

A variable-reluctance stator system for use with a radial-flux rotor of a permanent-magnet generator incorporates radially-oriented stator teeth uniformly circumferentially distributed around a central axis, and at least one moveable magnetically-permeable element in magnetic communication with at least one pair of adjacent stator teeth. Radially-inboard edges of the stator teeth are located outside a cylindrical boundary centered about the central axis and configured to receive the radial-flux rotor. Each moveable magnetically-permeable element is axially positionable relative to the stator teeth along an associated positioning axis substantially parallel to the central axis, so as to provide for linking magnetic flux between the pair of adjacent stator teeth via the moveable magnetically-permeable element. A series magnetic reluctance of the pair of adjacent stator teeth in series with the moveable magnetically-permeable element is responsive to an axial position of the moveable magnetically-permeable element relative to the pair of adjacent stator teeth.