Analytical methodologies for design of segmented permanent magnet consequent pole flux switching machine: a comparative analysis

Purpose This paper aims to reviewed analytical methodologies, i.e. lumped parameter magnetic equivalent circuit (LPMEC), magnetic co-energy (MCE), Laplace equations (LE), Maxwell stress tensor (MST) method and sub-domain modelling for design of segmented PM(SPM) consequent pole flux switching machine (SPMCPFSM). Electric machines, especially flux switching machines (FSMs), are accurately modeled using numerical-based finite element analysis (FEA) tools; however, despite of expensive hardware setup, repeated iterative process, complex stator design and permanent magnet (PM) non-linear behavior increases computational time and complexity. Design/methodology/approach This paper reviews various alternate analytical methodologies for electromagnetic performance calculation. In above-mentioned analytical methodologies, no-load phase flux linkage is performed using LPMEC, magnetic co-energy for cogging torque, LE for magnetic flux density (MFD) components, i.e. radial and tangential and MST for instantaneous torque. Sub-domain model solves electromagnetic performance, i.e. MFD and torque behaviour. Findings The reviewed analytical methodologies are validated with globally accepted FEA using JMAG Commercial FEA Package v. 18.1 which shows good agreement with accuracy. In comparison of analytical methodologies, analysis reveals that sub-domain model not only get rid of multiples techniques for validation purpose but also provide better results by accounting influence of all machine parts which helps to reduce computational complexity, computational time and drive storage with overall accuracy of ∼99%. Furthermore, authors are confident to recommend sub-domain model for initial design stage of SPMCPFSM when higher accuracy and low computational cost are primal requirements. Practical implications The model is developed for high-speed brushless AC applications. Originality/value The SPMCPFSM enhances electromagnetic performance owing to segmented PMs configuration which makes it different than conventional designs. Moreover, developed analytical methodologies for SPMCPFSM reduce computational time compared with that of FEA.