Multiphysics Design Optimization of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator

International audience; This paper presents the multiphysics design optimization of a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG). A medium-power wind turbine (55 kW) is taken as the basis for the design optimization, whereas reducing its cost is the optimization goal. The design comprises the multiphysics generator model and the cost and losses models of the grid connection static power converters (SPC). The power converter command strategy is analyzed as it influences the system cost. Papers that dealt with the optimal design of the PMSGs usually did not consider the SPC cost and losses in the total system cost. The analysis of three power converter command strategies, implemented in the multidisciplinary design optimization, aims to define the phase angle of the generator current that leads to the lowest cost of the system composed by the generator and power converter.