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This paper is focused on the design, optimisation and control of a permanent magnet assisted synchronous reluctance machine (PMaSynRel) for low cost high efficiency household appliances, in particular a motor for washing machine. The design and optimisation of the motor aims at maximising the torque produced and power factor, while minimise torque oscillations and the losses, thus improving the efficiency. A campaign of tests has been carried out on the prototype of the optimised machine, comparing finite element results and experimental measurements as a validation of the proposed design. In addition, torque ripple measurements are confirming that the solution proposed is meeting the optimisation design targets. The outcomes of this project are demonstrating that PMaSynRel drives are a suitable candidate for white goods sector, and that the proposed design is able to boost the performance and efficiency class with respect to the state-of-the-art solutions.

In order to create a new solar aircraft totally powered by the sun, a new method able to handle such a complex system must be developed. The project aim is to make a round-the-world flight in so as to promote the sustainable development. The aircraft power train will consist of solar cells placed on the wings, the energy storage system, the energy management electronics, the brushless DC motor and propellers. This paper presents the method to optimize the motor together with the propellers, to save the maximum of energy in the power train. Two different tooth shapes are considered, straight and standard. The conclusion is surprising, as the better results are obtained with the straight tooth shape, although the mutual flux is smaller in this case. The optimization process shows a potential to analyze simultaneously all the parameters to determine the optimum. © 2006 IEEE.