An Innovative H-Type Flux Switching Permanent Magnet Linear Generator for Thrust Force Enhancement

Abstract

In this paper, two H-type flux switching permanent magnet linear generators with outer-translator and inner-translator configurations are discussed and compared to a more conventional flux switching topology. The stators consist of H-Type modules housing circumferential coils and are surrounded by two annular permanent magnets. In conventional flux switching machines, the windings are orientated perpendicular to the direction of motion and the conductors twist around the magnets. In H-type topologies, the orientation of the windings is in the same plain as the magnets and parallel to the direction of motion, resulting in an increase in flux linkage. The proposed topologies are designed for a low operating speed and a large magnetic gap, as found in wave energy converters. All topologies are optimized using the Taguchi optimization approach with the goals of reducing force ripple and increasing the average thrust force and efficiency. The 2D finite element method (FEM) is used in the optimization stage to calculate the optimized parameters of the presented generators, after which the optimized structures are simulated using 3D FEM, and the results are extracted. The results of the optimization show that the H-type topologies deliver a 20% higher shear stress whilst offering an easier to assemble structure.

Operational Analysis of an Axial and Solid Double-Pole Configuration in a Permanent Magnet Flux-Switching Generator

“…A higher power density and efficiency and being more compact and lighter due to the lack of any slip-ring-based external excitation are some advantages [3]. However, one emerging machine topology is the flux-switching machine, or, more specifically, doubly salient machine, due to its higher reliability at higher rotor speeds due to its simple rotor design [4]. This mechanical characteristic is the main reason for studying a DSPM topology generator suitable for integration into aircraft fuselage since it must endure all atmospheric conditions with the utmost reliability.…”