Design optimisation of a miniature multi-pole permanent magnet generator

A miniature permanent magnet generator, employing an imbricated multi-pole stater and a multipole magnetised sintered NdFeB rotor, has been described, analysed and experimentally validated. A complete electromagnetic model of the power generation system has been established, and a design methodology to achieve maximum output power at a specified voltage has been developed. It has been shown that the specific power density increases significantly as the number of poles is increased. The proposed generator topology could be employed for multi-phase machines, and its dimensions scaled up or down to suit other specific applications.