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Purpose: This paper aims to present an adaptive method based on finite element analysis to calculate iron losses in switched reluctance motors (SRMs). Calculation of iron losses by analytical formulas has limited accuracy. On the other hand, its estimation in rotating electrical machines through fully dynamic simulations with a fine time-step is time-consuming. However, in the initial design process, a quick and sufficiently accurate method, i.e. a value close to that of iron losses, is always welcome. The method presented in this paper is a semi-analytical approach. The main problem is that iron losses depend on d B/d t. Therefore, the accuracy of the calculation of iron losses depends on the accuracy of the calculation of the first derivative of the flux density waveform. When adopting a magnetostatic model to estimate the iron losses, an important question arises: by how many magnetostatic simulations can the iron losses be estimated within the desired accuracy? In the proposed algorithm, the aim is not to accurately calculate the value of iron losses in SRMs. The objective is to find a numerical error criterion to calculate iron losses in SRMs with a minimum number of magnetostatic simulations. Design/methodology/approach: A finite element solver is developed by authors in MATLAB to solve the 2 D nonlinear magnetostatic problem using the Newton–Raphson method. A parametric program is developed to create geometry and mesh. The proposed method is implemented in MATLAB using the developed solver. Counterpart simulations are done in the ANSYS Maxwell software to validate the accuracy of the results generated by the developed solver. Findings: The performance of the proposed method is studied on a 12/8 (500 W) SRM. Three scenarios are studied. The first one is the calculation of iron losses by uniform refinement, and the second one is by adaptive refinement, and the last one is by adaptive refinement started by particular initial points (switching points). According to the results, the proposed method substantially reduces the number of magnetostatic simulations without sacrificing accuracy. Originality/value: The main novelty of this paper is introducing an error criterion to find the minimum number of magnetostatic simulations that are needed to calculate iron losses with the desired accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze electromagnetic performance and develop an analytical approach to find the suitable coil combination and no-load flux linkage of the proposed hybrid excited consequent pole flux switching machine (HECPFSM) while minimizing the drive storage and computational time which is the main problem in finite element analysis (FEA) tools. Design/methodology/approach: First, a new HECPFSM based on conventional consequent pole flux switching permanent machine (FSPM) is proposed, and lumped parameter magnetic network model (LPMNM) is developed for the initial analysis like coil combination and no-load flux linkage. In LPMNM, all the parts of one-third machine are modeled which helps in reduction of drive storage, computational complexity and computational time without affecting the accuracy. Second, self and mutual inductance are calculated in the stator, and dq-axis inductance is calculated using park transformation in the rotor of the proposed machine. Furthermore, on-load performance analysis, like average torque, torque density and efficiency, is done by FEA. Findings: The developed LPMNM is validated by FEA via JMAG v. 19.1. The results obtained show good agreement with an accuracy of 96.89%. Practical implications: The proposed HECPFSM is developed for high-speed brushless AC applications like electric vehicle (EV)/hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). Originality/value: The proposed HECPFSM offers better flux regulation capability with enhanced electromagnetic performance as compared to conventional consequent pole FSPM. Moreover, the developed LPMNM reduces drive storage and computational time by modeling one-third of the machine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to establish a piecewise Maxwell stress analytical model of bearingless switched reluctance motor (BSRM) for the full rotor angular positions. The proposed model varies from the existing models, which are only applicable to the partial-overlapping positions of stator and rotor poles. By extending the applicable rotor angular positions, this model provides a basic analytical model for the multi-phase excitation control of BSRM. Design/methodology/approach: The full rotor angular positions are classified into the partial-overlapping positions and the non-overlapping positions. At first, two different air gap subdividing methods are proposed, respectively, for the two-position ranges. Then, different integration paths are selected accordingly. Furthermore, two approximate methods are presented to calculate the average flux density of each air gap subdivision. Finally, considering the mutual coupling between the two perpendicular radial suspension forces, a piecewise Maxwell stress analytical model is derived for the full rotor angular positions of BSRM. Findings: A piecewise Maxwell stress analytical model of BSRM is built for the full rotor angular positions, and applicable to the multi-phase excitation mode of BSRM. For the partial-overlapping positions and the non-overlapping positions, two sets of air gap subdividing methods, integration paths and approximate calculation methods of air gap flux densities are proposed, respectively. The accuracy and reliability of the proposed model are verified by the finite element method. Originality/value: The piecewise Maxwell stress analytical model of BSRM for the full rotor angular positions is proposed for the first time. The novel air gap subdividing methods, integration paths, approximate calculation methods of air gap flux densities and the coupling between the two radial suspension forces are adopted to improve the modeling accuracy. As the applicable range of rotor angular position is extended, this model overcomes the limitation of the existing models only for single-phase excitation mode and contributes to the accurate control of BSRM multi-phase excitation mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to design the rotor geometry of switched reluctance motor (SRM) in a completely flexible way. In the proposed method, there is no default geometry for the rotor. The initial geometry of the rotor can start from a circle or any other shape and depending on the required performance takes the final shape during the optimal design. In this way, the best performance, possible with geometric design, can be achieved. Design/methodology/approach: The rotor boundary of a 4/2 SRM is defined by a few B-splines. Some control points are located around the rotor and changing their locations causes customized changes in the rotor boundary. Locations of these points are defined as design variables. A 2-D finite element analysis using MATLAB/PDE is applied to the SRM model and sensitivity analysis is used to optimization design by means of minimizing of objective function. Findings: The proposed method has many more capabilities for matching different objective functions. For the suggested objective function, while the conventional rotor torque profile difference with the desired torque profile reaches 40%, this difference for B-spline rotor is about 17%. Experimental results from a prototype motor have a close agreement with analysis results. Originality/value: The B-splines have been used to design machines and electromagnetic devices. However, this method is used for the first time in design of the whole rotor of a SRM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The torque ripple and fault-tolerant capability are the two main problems for the switched reluctance motors (SRMs) in applications. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to propose a novel 16/10 segmented SRM (SSRM) to reduce the torque ripple and improve the fault-tolerant capability in this work. Design/methodology/approach: The stator of the proposed SSRM is composed of exciting and auxiliary stator poles, while the rotor consists of a series of discrete segments. The fault-tolerant and torque ripple characteristics of the proposed SSRM are studied by the finite element analysis (FEA) method. Meanwhile, the characteristics of the SSRM are compared with those of a conventional SRM with 8/6 stator/rotor poles. Finally, FEA and experimental results are provided to validate the static and dynamic characteristics of the proposed SSRM. Findings: It is found that the proposed novel 16/10 SSRM for the application in the belt-driven starter generator (BSG) possesses these functions: less mutual inductance and high fault-tolerant capability. It is also found that the proposed SSRM provides lower torque ripple and higher output torque. Finally, the experimental results validate that the proposed SSRM runs with lower torque ripple, better output torque and fault-tolerant characteristics, making it an ideal candidate for the BSG and similar systems. Originality/value: This paper presents the analysis of torque ripple and fault-tolerant capability for a 16/10 segmented switched reluctance motor in hybrid electric vehicles. Using FEA simulation and building a test bench to verify the proposed SSRM's superiority in both torque ripple and fault-tolerant capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose An improved analytical method for calculating the natural frequencies of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) stator is proposed in this paper. The method is different from traditional analytical methods, which only consider the influence of mass of the stator poles and windings on the natural frequencies of the SRM stator. This paper aims to consider the influence of stiffness and mass of the stator poles and windings simultaneously and reasonably.Design/methodology/approach An innovated analytical method based on the electromechanical analogy method is presented. In the proposed analytical formulae for calculating the natural frequencies, the influence of the windings on natural frequencies is considered by using the springs to simulate the flexible connection between the stator core and windings, and the stator poles are treated as both additional mass and additional equivalent stiffness. Both three-dimensional (3D) finite-element analysis (FEA) and experimental modal analysis results validate the improved method.Findings The influence of the mass and stiffness of stator winding is considered by using the springs to simulate the flexible connection between the stator core and windings, and the stator poles are treated as both additional mass and additional equivalent stiffness. The traditional analytical method only considers the influence of mass. Therefore, the calculation results are comparatively lower than 3D FEA results and may lead to a large error. The 3D FEA and experimental modal analysis confirm that the proposed method has good precision for low-order natural frequency calculation of SRMs.Originality/value An improved analytical method for calculating the natural frequencies of an SRM stator is proposed. Unlike the traditional analytical method, the proposed method can consider the influence of stiffness and mass of the stator poles and windings. This method is valuable for designers to predict the natural frequencies accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to propose a new three-phase switched reluctance motor (SRM), and achieve high-torque and low-cost. This new SRM's winding configuration uses the double- layer distributed windings, which is different from the conventional SRM's single tooth coils. Design/methodology/approach -- The operating principle of new SRM is analyzed, and the voltage equation and the generated torque are deduced. Finite element method (FEM) and finite element circuit coupled method are utilized to evaluate the new motor's operating performances. The two dimensional (2D) frequency response analysis model is employed in the FEM model. Based on the 2D frequency response analysis model, the magnetic field distribution, self-inductance, and mutual-inductance for the new SRM are analyzed in detail. A co-simulation model using FE analysis package and Matlab-Simulink is proposed to simulate the new SRM drive. The simulated and experimental results verify the new SRM. Findings -- For the new SRM with double-layer distributed windings, a co-simulation method is proposed to analyze its characteristics. The new SRM presents lower torque ripple coefficient and generates larger torque than the conventional SRM, with three-wire and standard full bridge power converter, rather than six-wire and asymmetric half-bridge converter for conventional SRM. Originality/value -- This paper proposes a new SRM with the double-layer distributed windings driven by a standard full bridge inverter. In order to calculate dynamic characteristics of the new SRM, a co-simulation method using FEM and Simulink is proposed to simulate the new SRM drive, where the power inverter and the current chopping control algorithm are implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present comparative analysis of several configurations of the switched reluctance motor (SRM) for an in-wheel drive for a heavy-duty automotive series hybrid system. The SRM motor is regarded as one of the primary candidates for possible replacement of the permanent magnet (PM) motor. Design/methodology/approach – Three SRMs of 10/8, 12/10 and 12/8 configurations have been analysed, where the last two motors had the stator lamination profile taken from the existing PM motor. The analysis is performed using magnetostatic FEM and transient modelling techniques. Findings – The maximum developed electromagnetic torque of the two analysed motors of 12/10 and 12/8 SRM configurations with the stator lamination profile taken from the existing PM motor is limited due to saturation of the stator yoke. Both motor configurations are capable to provide the specified power within the same outer dimensions due to extended speed in the field-weakening region and position independent starting torque. A redesigned stator results in substantial increase in torque developed by the machine and, consequently, ability to provide similar torque-speed performance as the existing PM motor, at cost of increased copper loss at the low-speed regime. Originality/value – The paper proposes several structures of SRMs for the in-wheel drive for a heavy-duty automotive series hybrid system converted from the present expensive PM machine, having the same power density. The “bottleneck” of the direct conversion of the PM machine into the SRM is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The novel bearingless switched reluctance motor (BSRM) is proposed recently, which is different from the conventional BSRM in the stator structure and suspension winding arrangement. The reduced number of suspension windings makes the novel BSRM much simpler, so that the control circuit and algorithm are greatly simplified when compared to those of the conventional BSRM. This paper for the first time proposes the novel BSRM's analytic model, including the mathematical relationships among the winding currents, rotor angle, radial forces, and motor torque, to further achieve the suspending forces and torque control. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – The magnetic equivalent circuit method is employed to obtain the self-inductances and mutual-inductances of the motor torque windings (main windings) and suspension windings (control windings). The straight flux paths are combined with the elliptical fringing flux paths to calculate the air-gap permeances, and the stored magnetic energy. Then, the mathematical expressions of radial forces and torque are derived. A novel BSRM prototype is analyzed through using the proposed analytical model and the finite element model. The results of both methods are compared to verify the proposed mathematical model. Findings – The proposed mathematical model of the novel BSRM considering unsaturated magnetic circuits is verified by finite-element analysis results. Research limitations/implications – The mathematical model represents the situation of magnetic circuit unsaturated and is not suitable for the magnetic circuit saturation. It cannot be used to control the motor which is working in the deep magnetic circuit saturation region. Practical implications – Building mathematical model is a necessary step for the motor's suspension and rotating control. The built model provides the fundamental for the preliminary control algorithm and experimental study of this novel BSRM. Originality/value – For the first time, the novel BSRM's mathematical model is proposed. It provides necessary fundamental for the motor's further analysis, design, and suspending and rotating controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper seeks to propose a novel bearingless switched reluctance motor (BSRM). Design/methodology/approach – The operating principle and structure characteristics of the proposed three-phase 12/8-pole BSRM is analyzed in detail. Finite element method-based calculations are applied to a prototype and some important characteristics are obtained, including radial force, static torque, air-gap magnetic flux density, and effect of control winding current on the torque, where magnetic saturation is taken into account by using a nonlinear B-H curve. Findings – On the basis of the simulated results, it can be concluded that the proposed BSRM presents an excellent performance in the suspending force and in the torque. The analyzed results show that the two control-winding currents can effectively control the radial suspending forces and produce negligible effect on the motor torque, which is mainly produced by the main-winding currents. Originality/value – In this paper, a novel BSRM is proposed. Instead of the six sets of radial suspending control windings required by conventional three-phases BSRM, the proposed structure requires only two sets of suspending control windings, regardless of the phase number, leading to a simpler power converter with less power switches, thus lowering the overall system cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose |!|#8211; The purpose of this paper is to propose a combination of two novel switched reluctance generators (SRG) as a suitable prototype to produce electrical energy using natural, renewable and variable speed energy resource. The paper focuses on the voltage generation analysis of two special SRGs. Design/methodology/approach |!|#8211; To evaluate the proposed configurations, their structures are introduced firstly, and the output voltages of both two generators are analyzed numerically via three dimensional finite element method. After that the obtained results are validated on laboratory set up. Moreover, the main parameters of each one causing the output voltages are studied. The proposed generators have been manufactured within a common physical framework. This framework consists of two magnetically independent stator and rotor sets (layers), where each stator set includes four salient poles, while the rotor comprises of two salient poles with almost equal arc lengths and no windings. The first generator called Field assisted SRG which has a stationary reel, and so the field coil wrapped around it, and it is placed between the two-stator sets, whereas in the second type named Self excited SRG, there is no field coil. Findings |!|#8211; Via experimental and numerical analysis, it is substantiated that this interesting combination can help users to produce electrical energy from low speeds to high speeds of performance through employing each of these generators in special case of study and application separately. Originality/value |!|#8211; This beneficial characteristic of two proposed SRGs can be noticed as a suitable trait in different industries such as aerospace, automobile and production of electrical energy via windmills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]