Buzz
TTO - Research by teenager Robert Sansone could pave the way for sustainable production of electric cars without the need for rare-earth magnets - which are costly and environmentally harmful.
According to Smithsonian magazine (part of the world's largest research institution Smithsonian, under the US Government), Robert Sansone (17, from Fort Pierce, Florida, USA) is a 'natural-born engineer', having invented everything from electronic gloves to high-speed running shoes and a go-kart capable of reaching speeds over 113km/h.
This 'inventor' estimates that he has completed at least 60 technical projects in his spare time outside of school hours.
A few years ago, Sansone watched a video about the advantages and disadvantages of electric cars. The video explained: Most electric car motors require magnets made from rare-earth elements, which can be financially and environmentally costly to extract. The necessary rare-earth materials can cost hundreds of USD/kg, whereas copper is valued at 7.83 USD/kg.
'I have a passion for electric motors. I want to try designing a different type of motor using copper', Sansone shared.
In the realm of household appliances, there exists an electric motor utilizing a copper core to generate torque, omitting the need for rare-earth materials. While currently employed in pumps and fans, it lacks the potency for electric vehicles. Thus, Sansone embarked on enhancing its efficiency.
Over the course of a year, Sansone engineered an electric motor with a copper core generating torque and outperforming existing models. The prototype, crafted from 3-D printed plastic, copper wire, and a steel rotor, underwent testing using various wattmeters to measure power and laser speedometers to determine rotation velocity.
Sansone's design comprises additional components, yet details remain undisclosed as Sansone anticipates patent approval for this technology in the future.
Sansone's creation earned him first prize and a $75,000 reward in the largest international high school STEM competition at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in 2022.
Awaiting the next phase of testing, Sansone plans to approach automotive companies. Hoping his motor will one day be the chosen design for electric vehicles.
As a senior at Fort Pierce Central High School, Sansone dreams of attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He intends to utilize the ISEF prize money to cover university tuition fees.
Heath Hofmann, an electrical and computer engineering professor at a university, with years of experience in electric vehicles, including consulting for Tesla to develop control algorithms for propulsion engines, highly appreciates Sansone's efforts. However, he notes that the machinery is highly complex and notoriously difficult to manufacture, posing a barrier to Sansone's invention.
Sansone agrees, but remarks, 'With emerging technologies (such as 3-D printing), it will be easier to create new engines in the future'.
