CASE STUDY: CUSTOM STARTER MOTOR DESIGN FOR INDIAN MOTORCYCLE’S
THE CHALLENGE
Indian Motorcycle needed a starter motor that could provide very high power in a very small footprint to meet the engine’s unique performance demands. Off-the-shelf starter motors were not an option, as they prioritized low cost and ease of manufacturing over the specialized size and torque requirements that Indian’s road bikes needed. Additionally, because of Indian’s continuous drive for higher quality and reliability, they tripled the cycle life requirement from previous models, making durability a key consideration.
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SOLUTION AND CUSTOM DESIGN
OMI was chosen for this critical project due to our proven ability to deliver innovative, customized solutions for new customers. Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the engine’s requirements, focusing on creating a motor that delivered significantly more power while maintaining the compact size necessary for Indian’s high-performance bikes.
We used advanced engineering techniques and cutting-edge materials to optimize the motor’s design, ensuring it met the required power and torque specifications. In collaboration with Indian Motorcycle, we also addressed the unique gearing design of the engine. This resulted in a custom gear design that met the increased cycle life requirement while avoiding costly redesigns of the engine’s flywheel.
THE PLOMEN TO SOLVE
TESTING AND CHALLENGES
OMI carried out extensive simulations and real-world testing to validate the motor’s performance under the engine’s demanding conditions. This testing included mechanical force analysis, magnetic field strength evaluations, and assessments of motor harmonics. Our tests confirmed that the motor not only met but exceeded Indian’s power and durability requirements.
THE SOLUTION
OMI was chosen for this critical project due to our proven ability to deliver innovative, customized solutions for new customers. Our team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the engine’s requirements, focusing on creating a motor that delivered significantly more power while maintaining the compact size necessary for Indian’s high-performance bikes.
We used advanced engineering techniques and cutting-edge materials to optimize the motor’s design, ensuring it met the required power and torque specifications. In collaboration with Indian Motorcycle, we also addressed the unique gearing design of the engine. This resulted in a custom gear design that met the increased cycle life requirement while avoiding costly redesigns of the engine’s flywheel.
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RESULTS AND IMPACT
The final starter motor design delivered 25% more power while maintaining the same compact footprint, surpassing Indian Motorcycle’s expectations. The motor’s durability was proven through rigorous testing, fully meeting the new cycle life standard. By overcoming the unique challenges of the engine, OMI helped Indian bring a high-performance product to market on time.
CONCLUSION AND TAKEAWAYS
THE RESULTS
The final starter motor design delivered 25% more power while maintaining the same compact footprint, surpassing Indian Motorcycle’s expectations. The motor’s durability was proven through rigorous testing, fully meeting the new cycle life standard. By overcoming the unique challenges of the engine, OMI helped Indian bring a high-performance product to market on time.
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