Design of High-Power Density and Relatively High-Efficiency Flux-Switching Motor

A new class of electronically commutated brushless motor, namely, the flux-switching (FS) motor is gradually emerging in power tools and household appliances. This motor offers advantages of both high-power density and relatively high efficiency. There are a number of papers introducing this new class of motor. However, almost all of these papers focused on the analysis, and not the design, of the FS motor. Thus, this paper presents the design and analysis of the FS motor. Design equations are analytically derived for initial calculations of the main dimensions, number of turns, and inductances of the FS motor. Furthermore, a comprehensive time-stepping finite element (TSFE)-behavioral model is developed and utilized for detailed analysis and design refinements of a prototype 8/4-pole FS motor. Finally, test results of the prototype motor are provided to verify the design equations and efficacy of the design methodology.