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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]

In this article, a simplified three-dimensional (3-D) hybrid analytical thermal model for surface-mounted permanent magnet (PM) synchronous machines is proposed and applied to investigate the influence of PM segmenting strategies on the spatial PM temperature distributions and hotspots. The developed 3-D hybrid thermal model synergies the lumped-parameter thermal model and analytical method and is able to estimate 3-D spatial temperature distributions and hotspots for both unsegmented and segmented surface-mounted PMs accounting for the uneven PM eddy current loss distributions. Meanwhile, by utilizing the proposed matrix-based post-processing methods, the developed hybrid analytical thermal model has a simple mathematical expression but persists in high estimation accuracy. Finally, the proposed hybrid analytical modelling method is validated by 3-D electromagnetic-thermal coupled FEA and experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes and investigates two asymmetric consequent-pole hybrid excited flux reversal machine (AS-CP-HEFRM) topologies, which have same numbers of iron poles and permanent magnets (PMs) with concentrated ac and dc windings on each stator pole and a salient pole rotor. If PM number on one stator pole is larger than 1, PMs are magnetized radially in the same direction on one stator pole, while opposite on adjacent stator poles. The phenomenon of the phase shift between the flux linkages of dc and PM excitations in the AS-CP-HEFRMs is revealed for the first time, which will weaken the regulation of dc excitation field to PM produced field. The elimination condition of the phase shift is derived and verified by finite-element analysis in this article, which can be considered as design guidelines in AS-CP-HEFRMs. Airgap magnetic field space harmonics of AS-CP-HEFRM are also investigated and verified by finite-element analyses. Meanwhile, the relationship between the rotor pole number and the stator pole arc (PM ratio) is derived and verified by global optimization based on genetic algorithm for maximum average torque. The influence of stator/rotor pole number combinations is also studied and compared in terms of torque, torque ripple, and flux regulation capability. The torque components produced by airgap magnetic field space harmonics are calculated and compared. A prototype has been built and tested to validate the finite element calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the effect of airgap length on the electromagnetic performance of direct-drive surface mounted permanent magnet Vernier (SPM-V) machines with different power ratings. Using 3 kW machine as an example, its performance is comprehensively compared with a conventional SPM machine with the same airgap lengths using two-dimensional finite-element analysis. For each airgap length, the slot/pole number combination for the SPM-V machine is investigated to achieve the optimal performance compared to the conventional SPM machine. In order to make the study more generic, the slot/pole number and the airgap length variations are expressed as normalized pole pitch, i.e., $\overline {{{\boldsymbol{\tau }}_{\boldsymbol{r}}}} $ (ratio of rotor pole pitch to electromagnetic airgap length). The results show that for 3 kW machines, $\overline {{{\boldsymbol{\tau }}_{\boldsymbol{r}}}} $ >2.2 is a good design criterion for the SPM-V machines to achieve higher average torque and efficiency than the conventional SPM machines. In addition, a reasonably good power factor (>0.9 in this case) can be achieved. Although the power factor of SPM-V machines drops significantly at multi-MW power level, i.e., 3 and 10 MW, the criterion $\overline {{{\boldsymbol{\tau }}_{\boldsymbol{r}}}} $ >2.2 still results in achieving a performance closest to their optimal capability. However, when $\overline {{{\boldsymbol{\tau }}_{\boldsymbol{r}}}} $ >2.2, special consideration should be paid to avoid potential irreversible magnet demagnetization at multi-MW power levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel asymmetric interior permanent magnet (AIPM) machine is proposed in this paper for electric vehicle application. It has a skewed V-shape permanent magnet (PM) cavity, two PMs with different dimensions and an additional flux barrier outside the V-shape cavity in each pole. This asymmetric rotor topology can inherently utilize the magnetic-field-shifting (MFS) effect to reduce the current angle difference between the maximum PM and reluctance torque components, thereby enhancing the maximum synthetic torque with the same PM usage. The influences of cavity positions in the proposed AIPM and an existing AIPM with extra flux barrier inside the V-shape cavity are investigated and compared using finite element analysis. It is found that the proposed structure with outside flux barrier has higher average torque than the one with inside flux barrier. Both AIPM topologies are designed with the same stator, rotor diameter, and PM usage as the conventional V-shape IPM benchmark for Prius 2010. Electromagnetic, mechanical and steady-state thermal performance of three machines are compared. The results confirm that the proposed AIPM machine can achieve significant torque enhancement due to utilizing MFS effect, compared with the existing AIPM and the IPM benchmark. Finally, a small prototype of the proposed AIPM machine is designed, manufactured and tested to validate the FE analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new simple rotor initial position detection method for permanent magnet machines is proposed in this article. It is based on the magnetic saturation effect, which is commonly used by existing methods. Different from the conventional methods utilizing phase current or phase voltage sensors, the dc-link voltage sensor is used to estimate the rotor initial position. In the proposed method, a specific excitation approach is used to enhance the performance and a so-called “equivalent injection position” is developed to simplify the estimation process. The proposed method can achieve a 30° estimation resolution. Besides, practical considerations, including the dc-link voltage measurement errors, dc-link resistance, dc-link capacitance, and dc-link voltage ripples, are discussed in this article. A guideline of voltage pulse selection is presented to minimize the impact of these practical issues. Moreover, it is found that as the dc-link resistance increases, the proposed method shows a better estimation performance than the conventional methods. Besides, the proposed method is insensitive to sensor measurement errors. The experimental results are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, spoke array permanent magnet (PM) flux reversal machines (SAPM FRM), which feature spoke array PMs distributed along the stator inner surface, are proposed to improve the torque density. Compared with the conventional surface mounted PM flux reversal machine (SPM FRM), the proposed SAPM FRM can produce about 100% larger torque with negligible torque ripple, as well as higher efficiency and higher power factor. Two prototypes have been built and tested to validate the theoretical analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the impact of scaling on the electromagnetic performance of surface-mounted permanent-magnet Vernier (SPM-V) machines with a main focus on open-circuit induced Electro Motive Force (EMF). Three different power ratings, i.e., 3 kW, 500 kW, and 3 MW, have been chosen for this article. For each power rating, the SPM-V machines are analyzed for different slot/pole number combinations to compare their optimal performance with a conventional SPM machine. Step-by-step development of an analytical equation is presented for the prediction of induced EMF taking into account the interpole leakage of rotor permanent-magnets. 2-D finite-element analysis (FEA) has been used to validate the analytical equation across different power ratings. The analytical equation is thereafter utilized to study the influence of different geometric parameters on the performance of the SPM-V machines. It reveals that the back EMF and torque of SPM-V machines, for a given normalized pole pitch (rotor pole pitch to magnetic airgap length), are unaffected by the increase in airgap length due to scaling. However, the power factor of SPM-V, unlike the conventional SPM, reduces significantly with the increase in electrical loading due to the scaling effect. The analytical model for induced EMF and the 2-D FEA predicted results are validated by experiments using conventional SPM and SPM-V machine prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel parallel hybrid excited (HE) machine with wide flux regulation range is proposed in this paper. The flux paths of permanent magnet (PM) and field winding are separated to avoid irreversible demagnetization and achieve improved flux regulation capability. Since the field winding and armature winding are located in the same stator slots, open-winding drive circuit can be employed to feed biased ac excitation in one set of winding and solve the spatial confliction of conventional hybrid excited machine. Finite element (FE) method is utilized to analyze the electromagnetic performances of the proposed HE machine, in comparison with the original HE machine. It is revealed that the proposed HE machine exhibits lower PM excited back-electromotive force (EMF), which is beneficial to high speed fault tolerant operation. Besides, the torque density can be higher with flux enhancing, albeit with reduced PM usage. Finally, a prototype is manufactured and tested to validate the FE predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the influences of design parameters on the on-load demagnetization behavior of a switched flux hybrid magnet memory machine (SF-HMMM) are evaluated, which aims to provide a useful design guideline to avoid this performance degradation. The machine topology and on-load demagnetization phenomenon are described, respectively. Furthermore, some key design parameters are selected to optimize to elevate the operating point of the low coercive force (LCF) permanent magnets (PMs). Then, some geometric modifications are suggested to alleviate the on-load demagnetization effects. Finally, an SF-HMMM prototype is fabricated and tested to experimentally verify the finite-element analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the partitioned stator (PS) structure is extended to variable-flux memory machines, forming two newly emerged PS switched-flux memory machines (PS-SFMMs) with series and parallel hybrid magnet configurations. From the perspective of geometry, both two PS-SFMMs share identical outer stator and rotor segments, while two different types of permanent magnet (PM) arrangements are employed in the inner stationary part. Thus, the developed machines can inherent the geometric separation of the armature winding and PM excitations from the PS design, thus achieving acceptable torque capability, and excellent air-gap flux control. A comparative study between PS-SFMMs with series and parallel structures is established. First, the topologies and operating principle are introduced, respectively. In addition, the design tradeoffs and PM sizing of the two PS machines are revealed and optimized with a simplified magnetic circuit model. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of PS-SFMMs with different magnetic circuits are investigated and compared with the finite-element (FE) method. The FE results are validated by the experiments on a parallel prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A memory machine (MM) equipped with hybrid permanent magnets (PMs), i.e., NdFeB and low coercive force PMs, exhibits acceptable torque capability at low speeds and high efficiency at high speeds. Previous literatures have addressed that the constant power speed range (CPSR) of MMs can be further extended by online PM flux control and the requirement of the flux-weakening (FW) inverter current can be reduced as well. Nevertheless, how to coordinate the d-axis vector FW and PM magnetization control over a whole operating range in a reasonable manner remains unreported. Therefore, this paper proposes and implements a stepwise magnetization control strategy on a dc-magnetized MM based on the operating characteristics under various PM magnetization states and speed ranges. The configuration, principle, and mathematical model of the investigated machine are introduced first. Then, the proposed control strategy is established by dividing the operating envelop into several FW regions and an appropriate FW control scheme is utilized at each stage. It demonstrates that the CPSR can be effectively extended by simply applying the demagnetizing current pulses in several steps. This simplifies the control efforts considerably without resorting to continuous PM flux control and frequent actions of the switching devices. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified by experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid permanent-magnet (PM) variable-flux memory (VFM) machines employ both high coercive force PM, i.e., the constant PM (CPM), and low coercive force PM, i.e., the variable PM (VPM). The high energy-product CPM guarantees the benefits of high torque density of the conventional PM machines, while the PM magnetization state of the VPM is flexibly regulated to match various operation requirements. In fact, the two kinds of PMs can be magnetically connected in either parallel or series, with which the machine characteristics are quite different. In this paper, based on the two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite-element analyses, a pair of VFM machines with parallel and series connections, respectively, are investigated with specific reference to identify their difference in end effects. The comparison results show that the series hybrid PM VFM machine suffers more serious end leakage flux. The prototype machines are manufactured and tested to validate the analyses and predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes high-torque-density dual-stator permanent magnet machines with biased permanent magnet (PM) excitation in the inner stator. The developed machine can be geometrically considered as an outer-rotor stator PM machine plus a separate outer stator similar to the conventional fractional-slot machines. Consequently, the proposed designs feature two different stator structures. Meanwhile, two sets of armature windings are employed to improve the space utilization ratio and torque density. The machine topologies and operating principles are first described. In addition, the analytical models of the machine are introduced, which are utilized to optimize the stator/rotor pole combination as well as the power splitting ratio between two stators. This design optimization is performed in order to maximize the torque capability with the constraint of copper loss. The electromagnetic characteristics of the proposed machine with different inner stator structures are evaluated and compared by the finite-element (FE) method. Finally, an optimized dual-stator biased PM machines prototype is manufactured and tested to verify the FE analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an axial flux magnetically geared (AFMG) permanent magnet (PM) machine for power split application in hybrid electric vehicles. The proposed AFMG machine has the merits of simple structure and improved torque density by combining a magnetic gear with a PM machine. The machine can realize power split with the help of dual mechanical ports and one electrical port, i.e., the input mechanical power and/or electrical power produced by the machine can be split or integrated. The operation principle and two feasible stator slot/rotor pole combinations are analyzed. Moreover, the influence of the machine parameters on the output torque as well as the performance of both combinations are investigated and compared by using JMAG three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). In addition, the method of boosting the machine torque is described and experiment results of the proposed machine prototype are provided and compared with FEA results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper comprehensively studies the electromagnetic performance of flux-reversal permanent-magnet (FRPM) machines with different consequent-pole PM (CPM) topologies. Four CPM topologies are first introduced and classified by different numbers of PM pieces and PM locations on stator teeth. Then, the distribution and working harmonics of air-gap flux density of each CPM topology are analyzed and compared, from which the CPM topology with the highest torque density is identified. The influence of critical design parameters on machine performance is also parametrically investigated. By comparing the torque performance of CPM topologies with their surface-mounted PM counterparts, the advantages of CPM topologies, i.e., torque improvement and magnet volume reduction, are clearly revealed. Four FRPM prototypes are manufactured and tested to verify the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an 18-slot/26-pole vernier permanent magnet synchronous machine (VPMSM) with coil pitch of two slot pitches is proposed based on a nine-slot/18-flux-modulation-pole/26-pole VPMSM with concentrated tooth-coil windings. Compared with the original VPMSM, the number of slots is doubled and the phase winding connection is adjusted to reduce the space harmonic content, the phase inductance, and hence, improve the power factor. This paper shows that the proposed VPMSM increases power factor from 0.73 to 0.95 with better torque and flux-weakening capability. Moreover, a series of VPMSMs with high-power factor is proposed from the same design principle and given design guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Permanent magnet (PM) machine has received much attention recently. However, unbalanced magnetic force (UMF) may occur in PM machines with some slot/pole number combinations even when there is no rotor eccentricity, which can cause high vibration and noise. In order to reduce the rated on-load UMF, three 3-slot/2-pole PM machines with different auxiliary slots are investigated and compared in this paper. In the first two machines, namely, machines 1 and 2, the auxiliary slots are inserted in the middle of the stator teeth, while their sizes are optimized under different working conditions, i.e., no-load and rated on-load conditions. In contrast, both position and size of auxiliary slots are optimized under the rated on-load condition in the third machine viz., machine 3. Compared with the conventional prototype machine, the maximum rated on-load UMFs are reduced by 6.3%, 50.7%, and 96.6%, and the rated output torques are decreased by 0.7%, 11.5%, and 4% in these three machines, respectively. In addition, the other electromagnetic performances, such as flux linkage, back electromagnetic force, cogging torque, rated output torque, and torque ripple, are compared. The influence of working conditions is investigated, and the experiments are also carried out to validate the numerically predicted results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the torque production of fractional-slot concentrated-winding (FSCW) permanent-magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) is analyzed from the perspective of the air-gap field harmonics modulation accounting for slotting effect. It is found that the average torque of FSCW PMSM is produced by both the principle of conventional PMSM and the magnetic gearing effect. A finite-element analysis (FEA) based equivalent current sheet model and harmonic restoration method is first used in FSCW PM machines with different slot–pole number combinations to quantify the respective contribution of the conventional PMSM and the magnetic gearing effect to the average torque. The influence of slot opening on the magnetic gearing effect, cogging torque, and torque ripple is analyzed. The results show that the magnetic gearing effect makes a nonignorable contribution to the average torque when a large slot opening stator is used. The expression of the gear ratio in FSCW PMSMs is derived. The influence of gear ratio on the contribution of the magnetic gearing effect to the total torque is investigated by FEA. The FEA-predicted torques are validated by experiments on the prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Variable flux permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSMs) (VF-PMSMs) are gaining importance, especially in automotive applications. The use of such machines will require the development of methods to estimate the permanent-magnet (PM) magnetization state. PM magnetization state estimation methods reported in literature include back-electromagnetic (EMF) compatibility and high-frequency signal injection. One advantage of high-frequency signal injection methods is that they can operate over the whole speed range, with practically no interference with the regular operation of the machine. Magnetization estimation using high-frequency injection relies on the variation of the d-axis high-frequency inductance with the saturation produced by the magnets. Alternatively, the changes of the magnet electrical resistance due to the magnetoresistive effect can also be used for this purpose. These methods have been tested with different materials, including NdFeB, AlNiCo, and SmCo magnets. NdFeB magnets are usually protected from oxidation using NiCuNi coating. However, NiCuNi also shows magnetoresistance effect and can therefore affect the performance of the method when used with magnets having NiCuNi coating. This paper studies the effects of PM coating on the performance of methods, which estimate the magnetization state of the magnet using the magnetoresistance effect by means of high-frequency signal injection. The analysis will include NdFeB, AlNiCo, and SmCo magnets. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, novel dual-stator switched-flux hybrid magnet machines (DS-SF-HMMMs) are proposed. Two sets of armature winding are employed so as to improve the space utilization and torque density. Meanwhile, two kinds of permanent magnets (PMs), i.e., neodymium–iron–boron and low-coercive-force magnets, are placed on either a common stator or separate stators. The proposed machines can provide the merits of high torque density in DS machines, and excellent flux adjusting capability in memory machines. The topologies and operating principle of the DS-SF-HMMMs having different PM arrangements are introduced and highlighted, respectively. In order to overcome the drawbacks of the original “U”-shaped PM type, two alternate designs are presented to increase the copper area in the inner stator and facilitate the manufacturability. In addition, the equivalent magnetic circuits for various machine models are formulated to reveal the field regulation principle. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of various available DS-SF-HMMMs are evaluated and compared by the finite-element (FE) method. The stator/rotor pole combinations of the selected machine are analytically optimized in order to maximize the torque density. Finally, two prototypes are manufactured and tested to verify the FE analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The flux gaps in alternate stator teeth of the modular permanent-magnet machines can have a significant impact on the total magnet flux density, and hence the potential magnet reversible/irreversible demagnetization under flux weakening operations or short-circuit conditions. Such a problem has not been studied in literature and will be investigated in this paper. The influence of flux gaps on the d-axis inductance and the potential peak short-circuit current is analyzed for different slot/pole number combinations. It is found that the flux gaps will affect both d-axis inductance and open-circuit flux linkage, and hence reduce short-circuit current of machines with pole number (2p) smaller than slot number (Ns), while they will increase the short-circuit current of machines with 2p > Ns . However, the opposite phenomena can be observed for demagnetization withstand capability. For machines having 2p < Ns, the flux gaps tend to lower withstand capability, while for machines having 2p > Ns, this capability can be improved. Other parameters such as magnet thickness and temperature have also been accounted for in the demagnetization analysis. Tests have been carried out to validate the predictions of inductances and short-circuit current, as well as performance such as phase back electromotive force, cogging torque, and static torque for machines with one defective magnet, which represents the case of partially demagnetized magnets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes two novel partitioned stator (PS) memory machines based on flux-reversal and switched-flux topologies, respectively. The proposed machines geometrically feature two separate stators with armature winding and hybrid PM excitations, i.e., NdFeB and low coercive force PMs. The proposed PS machines can offer increased available inner stator space for hybrid PM, which is beneficial to the torque improvement. The machine topologies are introduced first in terms of possible PM types with parallel magnetic circuits. The design considerations for hybrid PM are analytically analyzed. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of the two proposed machines are comprehensively compared by using finite element (FE) method. The commercially available Toyota Prius 2010 machine is referenced as a benchmark for comparison with the optimal PS machine having identical overall dimension in potential context of traction applications. Finally, The FE analyses are validated by experiments on a small-scaled demonstration machine. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

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]

In this paper, the partitioned stator flux reversal permanent magnet (PM) (PS-FRPM) machine and the conventional magnetically geared (MG) machine operating in both stator-PM (SPM) and rotor-PM (RPM) modes are comparatively analyzed in terms of electromagnetic performance to provide design guides for an MG machine regarding an SPM- or RPM-type machine and a higher or lower gear ratio machine. It is found that an SPM-type machine is recommended since both PS-FRPM and MG machines operating in SPM modes have a higher phase back-EMF and hence torque than their RPM counterparts, respectively, as a result of a similar phase flux linkage but a higher electric frequency since the iron piece number is larger than the PM pole-pair number. Moreover, a smaller gear ratio machine is preferred from the perspective of a higher power factor and hence a lower inverter power rating, as the conventional MG machines with higher gear ratios suffer from larger flux-leakage, higher synchronous reactance and hence lower power factors, as well as higher iron losses, than the PS-FRPM machines. However, higher gear ratio machines feature lower cogging torques and torque ripples due to the smaller difference between the PM pole-pair number and iron piece number. Both prototypes of PS-FRPM machine operating in SPM mode and MG machine operating in RPM mode are built and tested to verify the finite element predicted results. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The on-load magnetization characteristics of a newly developed partitioned stator switched flux hybrid magnet memory machine are comprehensively analyzed in this paper. First, the open-circuit and on-load permanent magnet magnetization performances are evaluated and compared. The mismatch of the required demagnetizing currents between open-circuit and on-load cases is identified. Then, the on-load demagnetization behavior of low coercive force (LCF) magnet is disclosed by the frozen permeability method. Besides, a numerical solution for the refinement of LCF magnet sizing is presented by a proposed virtual linear hysteresis model so as to effectively prevent the undesired on-load demagnetization. Finally, an optimized prototype is tested to verify the theoretical analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The partitioned stator switched-flux permanent magnet (PM) (SFPM) (PS-SFPM) machine is a novel stator-PM machine in which PMs and armature windings are separately placed in two different stators. Compared with the conventional SFPM machine with a single stator in which both PMs and armature windings are located, the PS-SFPM machine can generate higher torque density due to the utilization of the machine's inner space. In this paper, the magnetic gearing effect in the PS-SFPM machine is investigated in terms of air-gap field harmonics based on a simple magnetomotive force (MMF)-permeance model. It is found that the PS-SFPM machine is one type of magnetically-geared machine, in which the modulations of rotor iron pieces to the open-circuit PM and armature reaction fields are similar to those found in the magnetic gear and the conventional magnetically geared machine. The pole-pair numbers and rotating speeds of the air-gap field harmonics obtained by the MMF-permeance model are verified by finite element (FE) analysis. More than 93% of the average electromagnetic torque is contributed by the main air-gap field harmonics having pole-pair numbers (2i - 1)\boldsymbol p PM and \rm| N\rm{r} \,\pm \, (2i-1)pPM| ( i = 1,2,3) in a PS-SFPM machine with pPM-pole-pair PMs and Nr-rotor-pole. A prototype machine is fabricated and tested to verify the FE analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper investigates the influence of conduction angles on the performances of two 3-phase 12-slot/8-pole short-pitched switched reluctance machines (SRMs): single-layer SRM with conventional winding (SL-CSRM) and single-layer SRM with mutually coupled winding (SL-MCSRM). Both unipolar and bipolar excitations are employed for the SRMs with different conduction angles such as unipolar 120° elec., unipolar 180° elec., bipolar 180° elec., bipolar 240° elec., and bipolar 360° elec. Their flux distributions, self- and mutual-flux linkages, and inductances are analyzed, and followed by a performance comparison in terms of on-load torque, average torque, torque ripple, using 2-D finite-element method. Copper loss, iron loss, and machine efficiency have also been investigated with different phase currents and rotor speeds. The predicted results show that the conduction angle of unipolar 120° elec. is the best excitation approach for the SL-CSRM at low current and also modest speed, as its double-layer (DL) counterpart. However, at high current, the higher average torque is achieved by a conduction angle of unipolar 180° elec. For the SL-MCSRM, bipolar 180° elec. conduction is the most appropriate excitation method to generate a higher average torque but lower torque ripple than others. The lower iron loss is achieved by unipolar excitation, and the SL-CSRM with unipolar 120° elec. conduction produces the highest efficiency than others at 10 \textA\mathrm{ rms} . In addition, the performances of single-layer machines have been compared with those of the established DL-SRMs with conventional and mutually coupled windings. The prototype SRMs for both SL-CSRM and SL-MCSRM have been built and tested to validate the predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Inherent second harmonic resistive and inductive saliencies are generally employed for the rotor position estimation of a permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) at standstill and in low speed range. However, the resultant estimated rotor position has an angle ambiguity of π due to the lack of magnetic polarity information in these saliencies. Therefore, this paper utilizes the high frequency (HF) inductance (permeance) harmonics (i.e., HF saliency) generated due to the saturation modulation between the HF field and main flux field for rotor position estimation. Since the HF saliency contains the magnetic polarity information, the resultant carrier responses due to the interaction between the HF field and HF saliency (i.e., the secondary harmonics) can be utilized for the actual rotor position tracking without any ambiguity of machine polarity. This will not only eliminate the time-consuming process of polarity identification, but also enhance the position estimation robustness and stability. Finally, in order to validate the effectiveness of HF saliency-based sensorless control strategies, experiments are carried out on a laboratory PMSM. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Terminal voltage distortion in surface-mounted permanent magnet machines caused by local magnetic saturation significantly influences the machine performance. Thus, this paper focuses on the minimization methods for such phenomenon. The traditional harmonics minimization methods, such as rotor skewing and nonuniform airgap (rotor and stator shaping), are investigated. However, neither of them can effectively reduce the terminal voltage distortion since the local magnetic saturation in tooth-tips always exists, especially for designs with small or closed slot openings. This paper proposes that the terminal voltage distortion could be essentially reduced when larger slot opening width is adopted, since the local magnetic saturation by tooth-tip leakage flux decreases as a consequence. A design trade-off on slot opening is recommended to balance the terminal voltage distortion and other performance, e.g., the torque quality and flux weakening capability. The results show that the optimal trade-off should be made according to the machines most frequent operation conditions. Two prototypes with different design tradeoffs have been manufactured and tested as examples to validate the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

On-load terminal voltage distortion can significantly reduce the flux weakening operation region of electrical machines. This paper investigates the effectiveness of several harmonics reduction methods, e.g., rotor skewing, rotor pole shaping, and stator tooth-tip shaping, on the terminal voltage distortion reduction in fractional slot interior permanent magnet machines. It is found that skewing can only reduce the peak terminal voltages, but not total harmonic distortion, while the average torque is also notably lower. However, on-load terminal voltage distortions can be greatly reduced by rotor pole or stator tooth-tip shaping with only a slight average torque drop. It is found that the local magnetic saturation is largely alleviated based on the magnetic permeance and flux path modification. Finally, these analyses are experimentally validated based on the measured torque speed curves of two prototype machines having the same stator, but different rotors with or without rotor pole shaping. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Permanent-magnet vernier machine (PMVM) is a relatively new type of PM machines. An analytical subdomain model accounting for tooth-tips and flux modulation poles is developed to accurately predict on-load field distributions in PMVMs. Based on two-dimensional (2-D) polar coordinate and magnetic vector potential, this method solves the Maxwell’s equations in slot, air-gap, flux modulation pole slot (FMPS), and PM regions. Consequently, the electromagnetic performance such as cogging torque, back-electromotive force (EMF), electromagnetic torque, power factor, and magnet loss are calculated. In addition, the model can also be used for the evaluation of demagnetization withstand capability. The finite-element analysis (FEA) and experimental results validate the accuracy of the developed analytical model. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, the end effects of a partitioned stator flux reversal permanent magnet (PM) machine with a surface-mounted PM (SPM) inner stator and a consequent pole PM (CPM) inner stator are comparatively analyzed. It is found that due to higher saturated inner stator steel in a CPM machine, it suffers from larger end effect than the SPM machine. Influence of armature reaction on end effect is investigated by a finite-element (FE) analysis, together with that of aspect ratio, i.e., axial stack length to stator outer diameter. Furthermore, it is found that in the CPM machine, the optimal PM arcs for the highest average electromagnetic torque predicted by 2-D and 3-D FE are different due to the variation of end effect with PM arc. Prototypes with both SPM and CPM inner stators are built and tested to verify the FE analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a partitioned stator switched flux memory machine (PS-SFMM) with triple magnets to enable expedient flux control with reduced converter power rating. Meanwhile, the torque/magnet cost ratio of the machine has been significantly improved without much compromise of the torque capability. Three kinds of permanent magnets (PMs), NdFeB, SmCo, and AlNiCo, are hybridized, and hence the irreversible demagnetization of vulnerable AlNiCo PMs can be well prevented by SmCo magnets. The machine configurations with dual PM (DPM) and triple PM (TPM) are described first. Thereafter, the performance improvement mechanism is unveiled and addressed in the perspective of hysteresis curves as well as simplified magnetic circuits. In addition, the electromagnetic characteristics of the proposed machine with triple-magnet design are investigated and compared with those having DPMs. Finally, two PS-SFMM prototypes with DPM and TPM are manufactured and tested to verify the theoretical analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The memory machine concept is recently extended to switched-flux (SF) machines, forming a series of SF hybrid magnet memory machines (SF-HMMMs). They exhibit the merits of good demagnetization withstand capability and effective flux adjustability. Nevertheless, the torque density is inevitably compromised due to the geometric conflict within the stationary part. Meanwhile, the inactivated dc coil, excluding online magnetization transients, results in system redundancy. Hence, in this paper, a new hybrid-excited (HE) concept is developed and implemented in a partitioned-stator SF-HPMM (PS-SF-HMMM). Thereby, the distinct synergies of a dual-magnet memory machine and an HE machine are achieved. With slight compensated field excitation, the torque can be improved at low-speed operation. Meanwhile, the high-speed constant-power region can be further extended without sacrificing high efficiency. The stator/rotor pole numbers are optimized first. The operating mechanism and optimal stepwise HE implementation over a whole operating envelop are then addressed. In addition, a comparison between PS-SF-HMMM with hybrid-excitation and its pure HE counterpart is established. Finally, both the finite-element simulation and experiments are carried out to verify the utility of the proposed HE concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an analytical method that combines the superposition concept and the subdomain method to predict the cogging torque of permanent magnet (PM) machines with a rotor eccentricity. The original eccentric machine is first divided into several sections along the air-gap circumferential direction. Then, the equivalent air-gap lengths of all sections will be determined and individually used to build up a series of concentric models representing each section. By the superposition method, the air-gap flux density of the original eccentric machine can be synthesized from that of every concentric model predicted through the subdomain method. Consequently, the cogging torque can be predicted by the integral of Maxwell stress tensor based on the synthesized air-gap flux density. To prove the efficacy of the proposed method, two fractional-slot PM machines with different slot/pole number combinations are taken as examples, together with the validation of a finite-element analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper first investigates the flux-weakening control performance of two types of partitioned stator-switched flux permanent-magnet (PM) (PS-SFPM) machines and then proposes a novel mechanical flux-weakening technique. The PS-SFPM machine topologies, operation principles, and flux-weakening control method are described. In addition, it is shown that by mechanically varying the relative position of two stators of the PS-SFPM machine, the PM flux linkage can also be varied, and hence, it can provide improvement in the speed range and torque capability. The optimal relative mechanical angle is derived to enable the maximum torque capability and reduce or even avoid the flux-weakening current injected by the inverter. The proposed technique is verified by three-dimensional (3-D) finite-element (FE) analyses and experiments on the prototype machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel topology of hybrid-permanent-magnet switched-flux memory machine (HPM-SFMM) is proposed, which is characterized by a conventional SFPM machine with embedded “V”-shaped Al-Ni-Co magnet poles. The proposed machine combines the distinct synergies of torque enhancement in neodymium–iron–boron (NdFeB) PM and flux variability in aluminum–nickel–cobalt (AlNiCo) PM. By changing the magnetization directions of Al–Ni–Co magnets, the wide-speed-range high-efficiency operation can be readily achieved, which is highly favorable for automotive applications. The configuration and operating principle of the machine are first described, and the combination of stator/rotor pole numbers is optimized. In addition, the torque density/flux adjusting capability as the functions of dual-magnet dimensions are analytically derived. The magnet hybridizing proportion is optimized in order to achieve a favorite tradeoff between flux adjusting range and torque density improvement. Then, the electromagnetic performance of the proposed HPM-SFMM is investigated. Finally, a 12/14-stator/rotor pole prototype is fabricated to experimentally verify the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel brushless ac, doubly salient, permanent magnet (PM) machine is proposed. It has the novel features of: 1) PMs placed in the stator slots (SSPM) to premagnetize only the stator on open circuit; 2) fail-safe capability during uncontrolled generator operation or winding short circuits; and 3) negligible cogging torque. The basic operating principle, electromagnetic performance, PM demagnetization, and the influence of leading design parameters on the machine losses and efficiency are investigated for the 12/10 stator/rotor pole machine. Finally, the performance of the proposed SSPM machine is predicted by 2-D finite-element analysis and is experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a partitioned stator variable flux reluctance machine (PS-VFRM) in which field and armature windings are placed on two separate stators. The influence of different stator/rotor-pole combinations on the electromagnetic performance is examined using finite-element analysis. Candidate designs maximize the average electromagnetic torque. Compared against the conventional single stator VFRM, the proposed PS-VFRM is shown to provide 24.6% and 12.7% increases in torque density and efficiency, respectively. The static electromagnetic performance is validated using experimental prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The hybrid-excited stator slot permanent magnet (HSSPM) machines have good flux regulation capability due to the dc excitation. This makes them attractive candidates for variable speed applications. In this paper, the choices of stator/rotor pole combinations for an arbitrary number of armature phases are discussed. The three-phase 12-10/11/13/14 stator/rotor poles HSSPM machines with single- and double-layer windings are further investigated. Their open-circuit characteristics, torque, inductances, and unbalanced magnetic forces are comparatively studied using 2-D finite-element analysis (FEA). Finally, the 2-D FEA is experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new flux reversal permanent magnet (FRPM) linear machine known as the partitioned stator FRPM (PS-FRPM) linear machine is proposed. The structure and the operation principle of the machine are described, and the major design parameters are optimized for maximum thrust force. A periodic model is also used in the analysis in order to highlight the significant effect of the longitudinal end effect on the machine performance, particularly in terms of unbalanced magnetic circuit and cogging force. Furthermore, the proposed machine is compared with the conventional FRPM linear machine. It is concluded that higher thrust force, less cogging force, and consequently less thrust force ripple can be obtained by the proposed machine. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Permanent magnet (PM) tubular machines have been applied to many applications, since they offer high force density with no end winding and no net attractive force between the mover and the stator. In this paper, two novel PM tubular machines named partitioned stator interior PM (PS-IPM) and partitioned stator surface-mounted PM (PS-SPM) tubular machines are proposed. Both the proposed machines are optimized for maximum thrust force, and their electromagnetic performance has been compared. It is found that the PS-IPM tubular machine has higher thrust force capability and better magnet utilization compared with the PS-SPM tubular machine. However, due to lower cogging force, the PS-SPM tubular machine has fewer thrust force ripples. Furthermore, the effect of the cross-coupling magnetic saturation on PM flux linkage, and the $d$ -axis and $q$ -axis inductances for both the proposed machines is investigated. It is demonstrated that the PM flux linkage and the $d$ -axis and $q$ -axis inductances are affected by the cross-coupling magnetic saturation. Moreover, the force–velocity characteristics of the proposed machines are calculated and compared. It is observed that both the machines have good constant power operation capability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Hybrid-excited permanent magnet (PM) machines utilise the coordinated operation between the PM and the field excitation current. To enhance the effectiveness of the field excitation current, iron flux bridges are applied to hybridexcited switched-flux PM machines. This study proposes a new control strategy in which the d-axis current is utilised, while the field excitation current is controlled towards zero rather than negative in the flux-weakening mode. These reference currents are determined by the voltage error regulation method. The special magnetic circuit can effectively reduce the d-axis flux-linkage by either partially short-circuiting the PM flux via the iron bridge or removing the field excitation current. The proposed method exhibits advantages, such as highly enhanced torque response in the constant torque region, extended speed range, robustness against machine parameters, and higher efficiency in fluxweakening region. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified by detailed experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a quantitative comparative study on the two novel memory machines (MMs) with two sets of different magnets on the stator, which are derived from the switched flux (SF) and the variable reluctance (VR) topologies, respectively. The machine topologies, the operating principles, and the design considerations are described. The hybrid magnet sizing is analytically optimized with the aid from a simplified magnetic circuit. Then, the major parametric optimization is conducted on the two machines sharing identical outer diameter and stack length, as well as the copper loss constraint. The electromagnetic performance of the two optimally designed models is analyzed and comprehensively compared, which confirms the advantage of the SF topology for MMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a consequent magnet pole switched flux memory machine (CMP-SFMM) is developed to improve the torque density and simplify the mechanical manufacturing with less magnet usage compared with its hybrid magnet counterparts. Nevertheless, owing to the significant magnetic saturation, the flux-adjustable range appears to be relatively limited, which will deteriorate the flux-weakening performance. Therefore, a novel winding-switching concept is introduced to deal with its limited flux-weakening capability, i.e., the magnetizing coils will alternatively serve as the secondary armature winding after the reversal of magnetization directions of low-coercive force magnets, thus resulting in the flux-linkage cancellation within the same phase. The machine topology, flux-weakening principle, and integrated circuit design are addressed. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of CMP-SFMM with or without winding-switching are investigated and compared, which confirms the feasibility of the flux-weakening method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel stator hybrid-excited, parallel flux path, synchronous machine of doubly salient topology is proposed. It has the novel features of: 1) hybrid dc field and permanent magnet (PM) excitation in the stator; 2) magnets placed in the slots between adjacent salient stator poles; and 3) the magnetic poles of PMs arranged, such that the flux premagnetizes the stator, but it is in a direction to oppose the dc excitation flux. The electromagnetic characteristics of the machine are analyzed on open-circuit and load. Since the new machine topology is developed from the variable-flux machine (VFM), a comparison of their electromagnetic torque and machine losses is conducted. The average electromagnetic torque of the hybrid-excited machine can be increased by 18% for fixed copper loss in comparison with the VFM due to the reduction of magnetic saturation in the stator. It is also shown that at high temperatures some risk of PM demagnetization exists when excited with dc and armature currents due to fringing flux that exists between the stator and the rotor poles. However, this affects only a very small area of the PMs. The performance of the hybrid-excited machine is predicted by a 2-D finite-element analysis and experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism and the influence of the on-load terminal phase voltage distortion by the armature reaction in interior permanent magnet (IPM) machines with fractional-slot concentrated windings (FSCWs) are investigated in this paper, by taking a 12-slot/8-pole machine as an example. The phenomenon is presented first, which shows that the peak voltage will be much higher than the fundamental value, especially under the flux-weakening operation. Then, the mechanism is investigated with the aid of the frozen permeability method. Due to the geometric feature of the FSCW IPM rotor, the armature reaction flux will asymmetrically enhance the local magnetic saturation in the tooth-tips and the rotor lamination region near the rotor ribs, which disrupt the smooth variation of phase flux linkage and lead to a voltage distortion. With the increasing of current advancing angle ( $\beta $ ), this effect will become more obvious and result in the higher distortion level. Furthermore, the influences of voltage distortion on the machine torque performance are investigated, which show that it will only contribute to the torque ripple in the constant torque region, but will largely reduce the flux-weakening operation region compared with the ideal one calculated by the fundamental voltages only. Finally, a prototype is manufactured and tested to validate the analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]