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Consequent-pole (CP) permanent magnet (PM) configuration suffers asymmetric electromagnetic characteristics although it saves PM usage. The CP-based stator-PM synchronous machines are investigated in this paper, with particular reference to symmetrical issues. The electromagnetic performances of the CP-based stator-PM synchronous machines are firstly evaluated. Afterwards, the rule of even order harmonics cancellation is presented for different slot/pole number combinations and winding layouts, based on which symmetrical phase flux-linkages can be obtained although the unbalanced magnetic flux naturally occurs. Moreover, based on the three-dimensional finite element analysis, the unipolar end leakage-flux caused by the asymmetric magnetic field is identified, and the risk of the shaft magnetization is revealed. Finally, a pair of prototype machines are fabricated and measured to validate the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper overviews the recent advances in flux-adjustable permanent magnet (PM) machines for traction applications. The flux-adjustable PM machines benefit from the synergies of the high torque density and high efficiency in conventional PM machines as well as the controllable air-gap field in wound-field machines, which are attractive for the traction applications requiring enhanced capabilities of speed regulation and uncontrolled voltage mitigation. In general, three solutions have been presented, namely the hybrid excited (HE), the mechanically regulated (MR), and the variable flux memory (VFM) machines. Numerous innovations were proposed on these topics during the last two decades, while each machine topology has its own merits and demerits. The purpose of this paper is to review the development history and trend of the flux-adjustable PM machines, with particular reference to their topologies, working mechanism, and electromagnetic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an analytical method (AM) based on the air-gap magnetomotive force (MMF) permeance model is proposed to predict the nonlinear instantaneous torque of switched reluctance machines (SRMs). The analytical expression of the air-gap MMF is first obtained from the winding function and current profile, while the air-gap magnetic permeance considering the double-sided slotting effects is also derived. Then, the nonsaturated field distribution along the air-gap circumference is presented based on which the instantaneous torque can be calculated from the Lorentz force law. Furthermore, the model is enhanced with a saturation distribution factor to include the nonlinear characteristics. The proposed method is free from preliminary data or empirical coefficient and benefits from the simplified model and solution. The AM will be validated by the two-dimensional finite-element method based on four SRMs with different structures. Moreover, an SRM prototype is manufactured for experimental verification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid excited (HE) machines have the synergies of high torque density and high efficiency of permanent magnet (PM) machines and excellent flux controllability of wound-field machines. The PMs and field coils (FCs) coexist in HE machines to provide excitations simultaneously, and can be coupled either in series or parallel. The topologies of HE machines are very diverse, which bring challenges in the selection and design of HE machines. Based on the partitioned stator (PS) platform, a pair of series and parallel HE machines having similar structures and PM usage are evaluated and compared to identify their merits and demerits. With the help of finite element analysis, the flux regulation, energy conversion capability, parasitic effects and irreversible demagnetization of the two kinds of the HE machines are comprehensively investigated and the guidance to the machine design is provided. A pair of prototypes are fabricated and tested to validate the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The torque production mechanism of switched reluctance machines (SRMs) is investigated from the perspective of air-gap field modulation principle. The unipolar stator current excitations can be divided into DC and AC components and they induce the air-gap magneto-motive force (MMF) respectively. Meanwhile, thanks to the salient structure in SRMs, the air-gap MMFs induced by the two sources above can be modulated to obtain the synchronized air-gap fields for torque production. It is revealed that a multitude of field harmonics contribute to the torque together. The MMF-permeance model is built and the analytical deduction of the field modulation effect is provided, with which the orders of the field harmonics contributing to the torque output can be identified. Moreover, finite element method is employed to verify the predictions on various SRM topologies. Finally, aprototype machine is fabricated and measuredfor validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel partitioned stator hybrid excited machine is proposed, in which the excitation sources including both permanent magnets (PMs) and field windings are allocated on the secondary stator that is separated from the original stator having armature windings. As a result, the available space is boosted to improve the torque density and flux regulation capability. Meanwhile, the rotor is simple without coil or PM. The PMs on the stator is placed on the slot openings between the two neighbour tooth tips, with which the uncontrolled voltage of the proposed machine is limited and it is favoured for safety-critical applications. The machine topology and operating principle are introduced in detail, and the basic electromagnetic performance is evaluated based on finite element method to validate the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series hybrid variable flux memory (VFM) machine employing two kinds of permanent magnets (PMs) on alternate rotor poles is investigated. This VFM machine features controllable PM flux and thus good flux-weakening capability, as well as improved torque density. However, it is found that the unipolar end leakage flux occurs if the two kinds of PMs are not balanced. According to the analyses of series connection between two PMs based on the fundamental magnetic circuit, the mechanism of the unbalanced rotor poles and the unipolar end leakage flux is revealed. Further, the rule of obtaining balanced poles is identified and the effects of operating conditions are presented. A series hybrid VFM machine prototype is fabricated and tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel variable flux memory (VFM) machine, in which the “constant” permanent magnet (CPM) with high coercive force and the “variable” PM (VPM) with low coercive force are alternatively located in the interior-PM rotor. Thus, the VPMs and CPMs are magnetically connected in series, with which the CPMs can assist the VPMs to withstand the unintentional demagnetization caused by armature reaction. Therefore, a high armature current can be applied to the machine. Meanwhile, the reluctance torque is retrieved. Thus, a high torque density can be obtained. Based on two-dimensional finite element analysis, first, the electromagnetic performance of the proposed VFM machine in two extreme magnetization states is evaluated in detail. Then, the demagnetization and remagnetization characteristics are investigated, in which the working points of VPMs are illustrated. Furthermore, the advantages of improved efficiency of the proposed VFM machine are demonstrated. A prototype machine is manufactured and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Switched reluctance machines (SRMs) are becoming increasingly attractive due to their inherent advantages, such as robust and rare-earth-permanent magnet-free topology, as well as excellent fault-tolerance and temperature management. However, the accurate and efficient analyses of SRMs are always challenging since they operate with variable reluctance and pulsating excitation, suffering severe nonlinear characteristics. This paper first introduces a general power equation of SRMs, which can be a powerful tool in the investigation of SRMs. Then, the proposed power equation is validated by finite element (FE) results and experimental results with different excitations. Afterwards, the calculated results with various conditions including different stator inner diameters and different stator outer diameters are compared with the FE-predicted results. Finally, the comparison between SRMs and several conventional machines is carried out to evaluate the power density of SRMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel partitioned stator (PS) hybrid excited (HE) switched flux (SF) (PS-HESF) machine is proposed in this paper. In the PS-HESF machine, the permanent magnets (PMs) and field windings are allocated on one stator while the armature windings are placed on the other. The iron-piece-rotor is sandwiched between the two stators. Consequently, compared with the conventional HESF machine having PMs, field windings as well as armature windings all on one stator, the available space of the novel machine is greatly boosted and therefore the performance is enhanced. Based on 2-D finite-element analysis, the electromagnetic performance of the PS-HESF machine is evaluated and the results reveal that it can exhibit not only better flux regulation capability but also higher torque than the conventional HESF machine. Moreover, the influences of the key design parameters on the hybridization ratio in the PS-HESF machines are investigated. A prototype machine is manufactured and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Partitioned stator (PS) machines employ two separated stators to accommodate armature windings and permanent magnets (PMs), respectively, alleviating the space conflict in stator-PM machines, and hence boosting the torque density. However, the PM usage volume in PS machines is relatively large, and thus the material cost is high, which is undesirable for the cost-sensitive applications. In this paper, a PS machine employing ferrite PM is presented, which takes advantage of larger available space for PMs while balances the performance and cost. The electromagnetic characteristics of an optimized ferrite PS machine and an NdFeB PS machine are evaluated together with a classic Prius2010 interior PM (IPM) machine as a baseline. Meanwhile, the economic issues are considered. The results reveal that the NdFeB PS machine has higher torque density than the Prius2010 IPM machine, but is more expensive, while the ferrite PS machine can significantly reduce the cost and still exhibit good performance. The demagnetization behavior of the ferrite PS machine is evaluated and a new method to improve the demagnetization withstand capability is proposed. Moreover, the mechanical analysis is conducted for the cupped rotor of PS machines. Finally, a pair of small-scaled prototypes are manufactured to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Hybrid excited (HE) machines combine the advantages of both high torque density and excellent flux regulation capability, while also having extensive applications. A novel partitioned stator HE machine employing two stators to allocate armature windings and excitations separately, is proposed in this paper. The permanent magnet (PM) pole-pair and wound field pole-pair are alternately placed on one stator to exhibit parallel magnetic paths, while the armature windings are located on the other stator. The iron-piece-rotor is sandwiched between the two stators. This machine inherits the advantages of stator-PM machine and further benefits from attractive flux regulation capability due to parallel topology. The operating principle and the slot/pole combination rule that are different from the conventional PM machine are illustrated. The two-dimensional finite element technique is used to evaluate the electromagnetic performance, confirming the mentioned advantages. A prototype is manufactured and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes two high-performance switched flux hybrid magnet memory machines (SF-HMMMs) based on the design concepts of E-core and C-core SF permanent magnet (PM) machine topologies. Since two kinds of PMs (i.e., NdFeB and low coercive force magnets) are employed, the proposed machines can offer the merits of high torque capability, excellent flux adjustability, and high efficiency across a wide speed range. In this paper, the PM arrangement and dimensions, stator/rotor pole number combination, as well as the major design parameters are optimized first. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of the proposed machines are investigated and compared with their conventional 12-stator pole SF-HMMM. It is found that compared with their conventional 12-stator pole counterpart, the proposed machines offer improved torque density and flux adjustability, even with the reduced PM usage. Finally, two machine prototypes are manufactured and tested to validate the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A partitioned stator hybrid excited machine is proposed, in which the permanent magnets and field windings are alternately placed on an inner stator separated from the outer stator having armature windings. This machine inherits the features of brushless machines and benefits from better space utilization. The operating principle and the effects of slot/pole combinations are investigated in detail. Further, based on 2-D finite-element analysis, the electromagnetic performances of the proposed machines, including back-electromotive force, cogging torque, flux regulation range, torque capability, power factor and torque–speed curve, are evaluated. The results reveal that the proposed machines can exhibit wide flux regulation range as well as good torque density. The prototype is manufactured and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A dual-stator hybrid-excited switched-flux (DS-HESF) machine, which is based on the conventional SF permanent magnet machine but employs a secondary stator to accommodate the field windings, is proposed in this paper. The DS-HESF machine inherits the robust rotor and benefits from a better space utilization. The topology and operating principle of the proposed machine are introduced in detail. Based on the 2-D finite-element analysis, the comparison between the DS-HESF machines having different rotor pole numbers is carried out, accompanied with a conventional HESF machine as a baseline. The results reveal that the DS-HESF machines exhibit not only higher torque density but also a better flux regulation capability. The prototype is manufactured and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The half-teeth-wound switched reluctance machines (HT-SRMs) having single-layer concentrated windings, feature simpler structures since the coil number is half, and phase-to-phase insulations in slot are eliminated. To evaluate the effects of winding configurations, the electromagnetic performances of HT-SRMs and conventional full-teeth-wound SRMs (FT-SRMs), including air-gap flux density, coil and phase flux linkage, inductance, torque, volt–ampere, and radial magnetic force (RMF), are comprehensively compared. The results based on theoretical analysis and finite-element (FE) method reveal that HT-SRMs would exhibit higher torque per ampere when the magnetic saturations are not too severe, whereas require higher voltage supply and generate more significant RMF. Further, it is found that the fault-tolerant capabilities of HT-SRMs are superior to FT-SRMs. A pair of prototypes with identical laminations but different winding configurations are manufactured and the experimental results confirm the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The partitioned stator (PS) machine adopts two stators to allocate windings and permanent magnets (PMs) separately, increasing the space for PMs as well as armature coils to boost the electromagnetic torque and improving the thermal condition of PMs. In this paper, the PS switched-flux PM (PS-SFPM) machine and the PS flux reversal PM (PS-FRPM) machine are proved to inherently share the same operating principle and similar machine topology but with interior PM (IPM) and surface-mounted PM stators, respectively. Furthermore, four globally optimized PS machines with different inner stator topologies are compared in terms of back EMF, cogging torque, electromagnetic torque, torque per PM volume, and flux-weakening capability. The results reveal that the spoke-shaped IPM (IPM-spoke) inner stator exhibits the highest back EMF and hence the highest average torque, while the I-shaped IPM (IPM-I) stator has the best flux-weakening capability, and the V-shaped IPM (IPM-V) produces the highest torque per PM volume. Furthermore, four machines are redesigned with the same PM usage volume, and the results show that the PS-SFPM machine still exhibits the highest back EMF as well as torque although with sacrificed advantages. The finite-element analyses and experiments are used to confirm the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Switched reluctance machines (SRMs) have been comprehensively researched, and they play an important role in the modern industrial field. The topology of SRMs is quite simple and only one set of windings is employed. Consequently, the winding configuration has an essential impact on performance. In this paper, a new winding configuration for SRMs with only half-teeth wound (HT-SRM) is proposed, which is totally different from the conventional SRMs with full-teeth wound (FT-SRM). First, the basic topology and operating principle of HT-SRMs are presented by a three-phase 12/8 prototype. Then, based on the 2-D finite element analysis, an optimization of the original 12/8 HT-SRM is conducted and a series of static characteristics of three SRMs, namely, a conventional 12/8 FT-SRM, an original 12/8 HT-SRM with the same iron laminations, and an optimal HT-SRM with the optimized dimensions, are compared. Finally, three 12/8 SRM prototypes are fabricated and the experimental results verify the theoretical analysis and the corresponding finite element analysis-based predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]