Axial Flux Segmental Rotor Flux-Switching Synchronous Motor

A novel three-phase, concentrated winding, axial flux, segmental rotor, flux-switching synchronous motor is presented. The proposed topology has rotor segments made of only iron laminations and operates with flux-switching principle. Compared to existing axial flux permanent magnet (AFPM) topologies, the proposed machine contains reduced amount of permanent magnets located only in its stator. This approach makes the assembly easier and reduce the cost compared to conventional AFPM. Moreover, the proposed topologies have higher torque density and torque-to-weight ratio compared to reported axial flux SRMs (AFSRMs). Detailed design and operation of the proposed machine is presented; the performance of the machine is evaluated for an in-wheel traction application.