Fault-Tolerant Axial-Gap Electric Machine
LaunchPoint Secures U.S. Patent for Fault-Tolerant Axial-Gap Electric Machine with Redundant Windings and Integrated Isolation
GOLETA, California – May 29, 2025 – LaunchPoint Electric Propulsion Solutions, Inc. (LaunchPoint EPS), a leader in lightweight, high-efficiency propulsion and power generation systems, today announced the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12,316,179 B2, titled “Fault-Tolerant Axial-Gap Permanent-Magnet Electric Machine.” The newly granted patent advances the reliability, safety, and survivability of LaunchPoint’s next-generation axial flux machines for mission-critical applications in aerospace, defense, and advanced mobility.
This patent protects an advanced fault-tolerant architecture that integrates stacked polyphase windings with independent control and real-time fault isolation. By incorporating a multilayer insulation system—including carbon fiber composite—between redundant winding sets, the machine can continue safe operation even after failure of one winding. This is particularly vital for aerospace, defense, and uncrewed systems where power continuity is non-negotiable.
“This innovation reflects LaunchPoint’s commitment to developing smarter, safer permanent magnet generators for a wide range of aerospace and defense power generation applications—including main engine starter-generators, auxiliary power unit generators, and alternators.” said Brian Clark, Executive Vice President of Business Development at LaunchPoint EPS. “With built-in redundancy and fault detection, this patent enables us to deliver high-reliability, fault-tolerant electrical power generation systems that can withstand extreme mission environments.”
The patent also covers configurations with aligned or interleaved electrical angles, supporting both torque smoothness and controller flexibility. Integrated fault detection via current sensors and common-mode diagnostics enables automated reconfiguration, further improving survivability without sacrificing power density.
This development underpins LaunchPoint’s dual-Halbach array axial flux generator line, already being deployed across hybrid-electric aircraft, long-endurance UAVs, and tactical energy platforms. It adds to LaunchPoint’s growing IP portfolio at the core of its scalable power generation ecosystem.
