Tritium
Energy efficient electric motor controller and universal bidirectional electronic power controller
QSEIF funding: $50,200 and $158,620
Project dates: 2005 and 2009
Project details
In the first of their two QSEIF projects, Tritium developed and tested an improved electric motor controller (called the WaveSculptor 20) for use in solar-electric cars. Tritium is currently extending this technology in a second project for use in electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles and renewable energy systems.
About the technology
Tritium’s WaveSculptor 20 offers drivers of solar-electric cars with an unprecedented level of sophistication and control, delivering power to the electric motor at optimal voltage and frequency.
The WaveSculptor measures the resistance and inductance of the connected motor, and automatically senses the phase of rotation of the motor. These parameters allow the WaveSculptor to determine the required voltage and phase to drive the motor. The user interface software developed for the technology allows users with very little experience or expertise to quickly and easily configure the motor control system.
Project status
Tritium are now on their third generation of the WaveSculptor technology. Their latest version has significantly reduced the weight, volume and power lost compared to the original technology.
Tritium is also developing this technology further to create a bidirectional power controller. This technology will seamlessly transfer power between a renewable energy system or electric vehicle batteries, the grid, and electric motors.
Please consult the fact sheet (PDF, 206K)* for information regarding this technology.
* Requires Adobe Reader
Last updated 21 October 2011