Magnetic regenerative braking system

Abstract

The present invention is a regenerative braking system useful in systems having variable kinetic energy such as vehicles. A DC machine having an independently energized field coil includes a rotor mechanically coupled for rotation at a speed proportional to the velocity of the load. During deceleration the armature is coupled to an inductor and rotational energy provided by the load is converted into magnetic energy stored in the magnetic field of the inductor. To store the energy a short is connected across the inductor, which is preferably operating under superconducting conditions. For acceleration this inductor current is applied to the DC machine to produce a torque for moving the load. The phase reversal required for proper direction of torque is preferably achieved by reversing the direction of field current. The rate of energy transfer and thus the rate of acceleration or deceleration is controlled by controlling the magnitude of the field coil current. A preferred embodiment includes a vehicle battery and motor control for powering the DC machine as the prime mover of the system. A control circuit responsive to vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position, brake pedal position, and the amount of current in the inductor controls switches for proper transfer of energy.