Topology optimization of rotor poles in a permanent-magnet machine using level set method and continuum design sensitivity analysis

Abstract

Purpose – In this paper, a numerical approach to the topology optimization is proposed to design the permanent magnet excited machines with improved high-speed features. For this purpose the modified multi-level set method (MLSM) was proposed and applied to capture the shape of rotor poles on the fixed mesh using FE analysis. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – This framework is based on theories of topological and shape derivative for the magnetostatic system. During the iterative optimization process, the shape of rotor poles and its evolution is represented by the level sets of a continuous level set function f. The shape optimization of the iron and the magnet rotor poles is provided by the combining continuum design sensitivity analysis with level set method. Findings – To obtain an innovative design of the rotor poles composed of different materials, the modified MLSM is proposed. An essential advantage of the proposed method is its ability to handle a topology change on a fixed mesh by the nucleating a small hole in design domain that leads to more efficient computational scheme then standard level set method. Research limitations/implications – The proposed numerical approach to the topology design of the 3D model of a PM machine is based on the simplified 2D model under assumption that the eddy currents in both the magnet and iron parts are neglected. Originality/value – The novel aspect of the proposed method is the incorporation of the Total Variation regularization in the MLSM, which distribution is additionally modified by the gradient derivative information, in order to stabilize the optimization process and penalize oscillations without smoothing edges.