Electric bus of the future . . . A new motor controller with advanced soft-switching circuitry developed at ORNL promises to make electric and hybrid vehicles more practical. The 100-kilowatt inverter and controller, which are being tested aboard an electric bus in Chattanooga, Tenn., represent breakthroughs in several areas, including in cost, volume, weight and reliability. The soft-switching circuitry helps reduce damaging power spikes and increases efficiency. Early results are promising, according to ORNL and its partners, Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority, Advanced Vehicle Systems and the Electric Transit Vehicle Institute.
Researchers plan to operate the system on a test track and city route and collect and evaluate data.
A rapid infrared heating device developed at ORNL for making steering wheel assemblies significantly reduces repetitive stress injuries in one type of automotive manufacturing. The heater expands the leading part of the polymer boot so it can be easily mounted onto a metal housing. It reduces the amount of force needed to install the boot and should decrease injuries.