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The current work offers a comparison of the proposed machine geometries for 6 [MW] direct drive wind generator candidates with the prospective of up scaling to 20MW. The suggestions are based on a design tool especially built for this investigation. The in-built flexibility of the design tool gives the possibility of calculating a large variation of geometries using existing modules. The main goal is to be able to quickly and transparently asses the feasibility of a proposed machine for a set of requirements.As a first step, a set of suitable machine types for the 6 [MW] design were investigated. A comparison of the selected machine types in view of up-scaling to 20 [MW] was performed. As an example fitness criterion, the use of active materials for the generators was considered. Based on this, suggestions for 20 [MW] generators were made. The results are discussed and future work, directions and suggestions for potential improvement were listed.The design is obtained analytically at first; then visualised in 3D CAD (Computer Assisted Design) and evaluated in FEM. An analytical optimisation (Particle Swarm –PSO and Genetic Algorithms -GA) patch is available for improving the design. The tool is destined for engineers that are involved in the design of wind turbine systems.The visualisation of the design in work is important for the overall assessment of the machine concept. The tool provides facilities for reporting on a shaped design: list of geometrical and electromagnetic quantities, pictures of the machine itself (3D particular drawing); FEM (Finite Element Model) electromagnetic profile, dynamic simulation model results and characteristic curves.The structure of the design tool is modular and independent so that new machine types and geometries can be designed by reusing recombining and altering the different calculation modules. The design algorithm is transparent as logging of location and comments is used throughout the program. The purpose of this is to enable further development of the design tool by several contributors.The tool was validated by both software and laboratory tests on a prototype and by comparing results with literature reporting of similar machines.

This paper reports on a machine design tool for large (5-10MW) direct drive electrical generator. The aim of the work is to construct a flexible calculation tool that enables the analysis of different ideas and concepts for generator design. The tool is intended for engineers that are involved in the design of wind turbine systems.The design tool comprises calculation modules that are kept as independent as possible from each other so that new machine geometries and types can be modelled by reusing, recombining and modifying the different modules.Choice of the most suitable candidates for the application is presented. Assessment is made based on suitability criteria combined with the SWOT analysis method.An analytic design is generated at first; then visualised in 3D CAD, evaluated using FEM and a dynamic model simulation. An optimisation module is available for improving the design.The calculations were validated by comparing results with literature reporting machines with similar ratings, laboratory tests on a prototype and by evaluating a given design using different software like finite element, 3D CAD and dynamic simulation programs.

This paper presents a 1 kW generator and converter applied to a floating Darreius type wind turbine system. The completed system is floated in the sea with the generator 5m below the surface.The present paper sketches the design and presents the laboratory bench test results, as well as the environment where the turbine was placed.

Nowadays the requirements imposed by the industry and economy ask for better quality and performance while the price must be maintained in the same range. To achieve this goal optimization must be introduced in the design process. Two of the best known optimization algorithms for machine design, genetic algorithm and particle swarm are shortly presented in this paper. These two algorithms are tested to determine their performance on five different benchmark test functions. The algorithms are tested based on three requirements: precision of the result, number of iterations and calculation time.Both algorithms are also tested on an analytical design process of a Transverse Flux Permanent Magnet Generator to observe their performances in an electrical machine design application.

Cogging torque results due interaction of magnetic field of magnets and stator slots, and have negative effects on permanent magnet machines such as vibrations, noise, torque ripples and problems during turbine start-up and cut-in. In order to reduce cogging torque this paper presents a study of influence of closed stator slots on cogging torque using magnetic slot wedges.

This paper proposes an optimized version of a new absolute linear encoder (ALE). The innovative ALE can be used for long distance applications (more then 150m) and the accuracy of the measurements is 0.5mm. To obtain these performances the ALE uses a new coding algorithm. This new coding algorithm is the core of the ALE and it allows an economical device solution. The optimized version is able to measure a double distance (more then 300m) with a better accuracy (0.25mm). These performances are obtained using the same device, the same number of sensors and the same ALE structure. The only changes were made in the coding algorithm, in the ruler topology and in the dedicated software. The optimized ALE is a robust device able to work in industrial environment, with a high level of vibrations. By this reason it is ideal for the transport system control in automating manufacturing processes, intelligent storage spaces, huge archives and libraries.

The paper proposes a new solar position sensor used in tracking system control. The main advantages of the new solution are the robustness and the economical aspect. Positioning accuracy of the tracking system that uses the new sensor is better than 1°. The new sensor uses the ancient principle of the solar clock. The sensitive elements are eight ordinary photo-resistors. It is important to note that all the sensors are not selected simultaneously. It is not necessary for sensor operating characteristics to be quasi-identical because the sensor principle is based on extreme operating duty measurement (bright or dark). In addition, the proposed solar sensor significantly simplifies the operation of the tracking control device.