Flywheels
How It Works -The successful integration of patented high-speed motor, generator and magnetic bearing technologies gives Vycon a substantial edge in delivering the four components that combine for a highly efficient, extremely reliable flywheel system.
Four components—the high-strength steel hub, the dual mode motor/generator, the fully active magnetic bearings, and the sophisticated system controls—constitute a unique synthesis of proprietary technologies.
As a result, Vycon is able to produce robust, durable, high-speed flywheel systems that are available at costs which make flywheels a viable DC power alternative.
Vycon was formed in 2002 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Calnetix Inc., and subsequently spun-off in 2003 to allow the company to focus on its product line and acquire funding to support this focused effort.
The Anatomy of a Flywheel System
Each system makes optimum use of sophisticated components for increased efficiencies: -
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Flywheel Module
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The heart of the system providing a 20 year life with no maintenance. |
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Control Panel
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Touch screen, graphical user interface provides system status, navigation paths, and system functionality options |
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Power Conversion
Module Controller
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Monitors the output demand and controls the various subsystems including charging (motoring) and discharging (generating) of the flywheel permanent magnet motor. |
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Magnetic Levitation
Controller
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Controls the position of the flywheel rotor via a 5-axis active magnetic bearing system and provides data on system performance. |
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Bi-Directional IGBT
Power Converter
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The interface between the DC bus and the variable frequency, variable voltage AC generated by the flywheel
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