A Novel Constant Torque Eddy-Current Brake for Automotive Applications

Electromagnetic brakes are found in a variety of applications. They offer tremendous advantages including: absence of fading, high braking torque and controllability. However they suffer from decreasing torque at low and high speeds.

In this study, a novel concept of permanent magnet eddy-current brake is proposed that maintains a flat braking torque profile over a broad speed range. The principle is analytically investigated and numerically validated through finite element simulations using MAXWELL. It is demonstrated that a usably flat braking torque profile can be achieved by altering the path of eddy-currents by magnetic field orientation, thereby affecting the apparent rotor resistance.