A Consequent-Pole Magnetic-Geared Machine With Axially Embedded Permanent Magnets for Hybrid Electric Vehicle

This paper reveals the fundamental reason for the asymmetrical issue in magnetic-geared machines (MGMs) based on flux modulation theory. The analysis indicates that the magnetic circuits of three-phase windings in MGMs are inherently asymmetrical. This asymmetrical issue is even more severe in conventional consequent-pole MGMs (CP-MGMs) because of the more distorted magnetic field. Hence, to address the asymmetrical issue, a novel structure featuring enhanced harmonic elimination capability is proposed in this paper. Consequently, torque density can also be improved. In particular, the proposed CP-MGM employs modular structure and axially embedded permanent magnets (PMs) to achieve symmetrical back electromotive force (EMF) waveforms and improved torque capability, respectively. To further improve the electromagnetic performance of the proposed CP-MGM, the PM arc ratio and flux modulator width ratio are analytically designed, which provides a general design guideline for CP-MGMs. To illustrate the merits of the proposed CP-MGM, a few other MGMs are included for a fair comparison based on finite element analysis (FEA). Results show the proposed CP-MGM can achieve more symmetrical back EMF waveforms and lower torque ripple, as well as lower PM consumption and higher torque density, as compared with its MGM counterparts.