IMA AUTOMATION joins CliMAFlux Project to innovate design and manufacturing processes of axial flux motors.

THE PROJECT

Circular design and manufacturing techniques for next-generation highly-efficient integrated axial flux motor drives for electric vehicles

The mission of the CliMAFlux project is to innovate both the design and manufacturing processes of axial flux motors. Thanks to improved thermal behaviour and the use of novel materials, a higher power density can be achieved and simultaneously circularity, recyclability and cost competitiveness are boosted. The novel concepts developed within this project lead to more performant axial flux motors, while reducing the need for rare earth materials.

The CliMAFlux on-board motors are integrated with the power electronic inverter and mechanical transmission systems. The resulting electric drives will be managed by robust predictive controllers based on digital twins, including artificial intelligence (AI) prediction models. This will again facilitate novel functionalities in vehicle (sub)systems, such that the full capability of the complete electrified drivetrain can be exploited.

The widespread use of electric vehicles is an essential step towards zero emission. This requires improved range and reduced cost of the vehicles, and thus of the electric motors.

Project Overview

Duration: 36 months (January 2024 – December 2026)
Partners: 10 across the Europe

Key goals and technological developments

CliMAFlux aims at developing and testing:

• Design of high-performing on-board electric machines for passenger cars and vans, according to modular yokeless and segmented armature axial flux topologies
• Integrating functionalities and increasing efficiency of electric vehicle systems while exploiting high voltages
• Reducing environmental impact of EV manufacturing through life cycle analysis (LCA), life cycle costing (LCC) and recyclability considerations
• Optimising the system design and control of the CliMAFlux electric drives through digital twin-based routines for enhanced performance, market penetration potential and cost-effectiveness
  
  

IMA AUTOMATION ROLE

IMA AUTOMATION serves as a member of the Advisory Board for the Horizon Europe project CliMAFlux, providing strategic direction, advising on innovation aspects, and contributing scientific and stakeholder-focused insights throughout the entire project lifecycle.

This project is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Actions under grant agreement no 101096062