Design Optimization of a Hybrid-Excited Flux-Switching Machine for Aircraft-Safe DC Power Generation Using a Diode Bridge Rectifier

This paper presents a design optimization methodology of a hybrid-excited flux-switching machine (HEFSM) for aircraft dc power generation. Hybrid machines are favored in new aircraft embedded generation systems because of their high power density. Their flux control capability allows the use of the more reliable diode bridge rectifier and makes them suitable for wide-speed-range dc power generation. However, in order to respect aviation safety requirements, these machines must have a limited remanent voltage, and, therefore, an optimal design is needed. At first, the electromagnetic performances of the HEFSM are studied using a transient finite-element model. In order to perform design optimization, a static method is used instead. This method is shown to be much less time consuming and more suitable for optimization routines. The results have shown very promising performances of the new design. Despite having a very small remanent voltage, high power density has still been achieved.