Optimisation of the synchronous reluctance motor geometry

A machine is required which ideally utilises an induction motor stator, to take advantages of low manufacturing costs, and a synchronous rotor design, but with no windings, brushes or slip-rings, to maintain high reliability. A synchronous reluctance motor (synchrel motor) meets the mechanical requirements. One possible advantage of the synchrel motor is that for operation at or near zero speed, the external fan may not be needed. The authors describe research work involved in determining an optimum design for a synchrel motor for use in a high performance drive system which may compete with DC and vector control drives.