This work presents a channel model for the broadband characterization of power lines in presence of time variation of the loads. The model is characterized by taking into account both measured and geometrical channel characteristics and can easily be used to take into account also the presence of noise. The channel is described by a two-port equivalent described by a scattering matrix determined from a wavelet-based expansion of the input and output quantities. Upper and lower bounds for the response of the channel in presence of time-varying loads are determined in a fast and efficient way avoiding time consuming Monte Carlo simulations. The bounds determination allows the estimate of noteworthy quantities for the tuning of currently used modulation schemes for power lines communications such as orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing.

In this article, a novel axial flux double-stator switched reluctance motor (AFDSSRM) is presented and optimized for electric vehicle applications. AFDSSRM adopts the axial arrangement of double-stator and inner rotor structure with a full-pitch winding configuration. The flux generated by the two stators cancels each other at the unaligned position, and then, a low unaligned inductance barely affected by saturation is achieved, which is the primary advantage of the AFDSSRM. First, the topology and power equation of the motor are presented briefly. Due to a large number of dimensional parameters of the proposed structure, comprehensive sensitivity analysis is used to classify the design parameters into strong- and weak-sensitive classes, and a multilayer optimization approach is adopted for the variables of both classes. The response surface method combined with the multiobjective genetic algorithm is employed to optimize the strong-sensitive variables, while the Taguchi algorithm is applied to optimize the weak-sensitive variables. Moreover, the 3-D finite element model is established to analyze the electromagnetic characteristics of the motor. Finally, a prototype motor is manufactured, and the experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed structure and the optimization method.

In this paper, a double-sided stator tubular linear induction machine is presented, and its performance is discussed for possible use as a catapult in the electromagnetic acceleration of aircraft. Based on the use of the Fourier transform in the direction of the motion, a semianalytical model that is able to take into account the end effects due to the finite length of the stators is derived. The effectiveness of the model has been proven by comparison with a numerical analysis based on the finite-element method. The reported results obtained using the two methods show excellent agreement that makes the proposed model a valuable tool for a preliminary design of the device.

This paper describes the design and testing of a novel permanent magnet clutch based on a magnetorheological fluid. It was inspired by a prototype previously developed by the authors and contains a novel gap shape conceived to reduce torque loss in the disengaged operating mode. Several geometries and material arrangements were investigated and the performance in terms of transmissible torque in different operating conditions was assessed using finite element numerical models. The prototype was manufactured and some experimental tests were performed. The new prototype was rated on the basis of performance indices and the design effectiveness was proven by a higher value of efficiency in the disengaged operating mode.

This work was carried out in the framework of a funded project aimed at evaluating the feasibility of an ad hoc clutch for the disengagement an auxiliary device, i.e. the vacuum pump used with the powerbrake in diesel engine vehicles, when its operation is not required. In this way it is possible to improve the overall vehicle efficiency. Strict design specifications were defined with reference to available room, torque transmission, absence of axial loads and fail-safe operation. A magnetorheological clutch with permanent magnets was conceived to fulfil the technical requirements. Different clutch geometries were compared with particular reference to the fail-safe operation and torque capabilities. After an iterative procedure, in which both mechanical design and magnetic field analyses were considered, the most promising solution was defined and a prototype was built and tested. A four-pole sliding permanent magnet was adopted to generate the magnetic field. The experimental results validated the developed models and demonstrated the feasibility developed models and demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed solution. A principle for the automatic clutch actuation is also presented.

In this contribution the authors investigate a modular structure of Wireless Power Transfer system specifically dedicated to a quasistatic or dynamic operation mode in an urban environment. The proposed architecture has been simulated by using a commercial software. Characteristics of the interoperability are analyzed when the modular transmitting and receiving coils are in proximity, and the architecture has proven to be characterized by excellent performances in terms of small interaction between each single module. Finally, an improved coil design has been introduced which is characterized by good uniformity of the coupling coefficient when the receiver travels between two adjacent transmitting sections.