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Flux switching alternators for small wind generation

This paper considers the application of flux switching alternators for small wind generation. First, after a brief presentation of the small wind energy systems, a description and the fundamentals of flux switching machines is given, then the state of art of flux switching generators is presented. Finally a critical assessment is shown, considering the main advantages and drawbacks of this type of machines as alternator for use in small wind generation systems.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Design of a segmented switched reluctance drive for a light electric vehicle

The light electric vehicle market requires better performance motors with less or even without permanent magnets. Switched reluctance motors (SRM) are among the best placed to meet this goal, despite they have lower power density, higher torque ripple, and are noisier than synchronous permanent magnet motors. Segmented stator switched reluctance motors (SSSRM) can reduce these drawbacks of conventional SRMs due to their modular construction and shorter flux paths. This paper presents a procedure for designing an SSSRM for a light electric vehicle. First, the output torque equation is derived from a simplified nonlinear energy conversion loop, and then guidelines for its design are given. Once the preliminary sizing of the SSSRM has been carried out, simulation using electromagnetic finite element analysis is performed. Then, the complete drive is simulated and validated using Matlab-Simulink and some results of the definitive finite element analysis (magnetization curves and static torque curves).Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Magnetic circuit znalysis of a linear switched reluctance motor

In this paper a magnetic circuit analysis has been developed to obtain flux linkage/current characteristics in aligned and unaligned positions for a Linear Switched Reluctance Motor. The model is based on lumped parameters and it takes into account the leakage pole flux and the end effects. The lumped parameter magnetic analysis proposed can be a useful tool for designing Linear Switched Reluctance Machines. The procedure has been verified using two dimensional finite element analysis and experimental measurements.Postprint (published version

Solar photovoltaic water pumping system using a new linear actuator

In this paper a photovoltaic solar pumping system using a new linear actuator is presented. This linear actuator is a double-sided flat two-phase variable-reluctance linear stepper motor that moves a piston-type water pump with the help of a rope, a pulley and a counterweight. The entire actuator pump ensemble is controlled by a simple electronic unit that manages the electric power generated by a photovoltaic array. The proposed system is suitable for rural communities in developing countries because it is reliable, affordable and easy to maintain.Postprint (published version

Study of end effects on the performance of the linear switched reluctance motor

The purpose of this paper is to study the end effects in a double-sided linear switched reluctance motor (LSRM). Switched reluctance motors (SRM) and by extension their linear counterpart, LSRM, have been widely studied using two-dimensional finite element analysis (2D FEA). End effects are not included in 2D FEA, even though these effects considerably increase unaligned inductance. This paper describes a procedure that takes into account the end effects in flux linkage, inductance and force profiles on LSRM. It is based on 2D FEA corrected by the inclusion of end-winding inductance and several empirical coefficients. The results of this approach closely coincide with experimental measurements.Postprint (published version

High-speed synchronous generators. A critical assessment

Considering that there are electromagnetic, mechanical and thermal constraints that determine the design of high-speed electrical machines, the criteria that lead to adequate selection of the machine are established in this work. Moreover, taking into account the current state of technology, the critical values in the ratio (output power)/(rotation speed), are presented. The paper focuses on the high-speed synchronous generators, especially in permanent magnet generators, inductor alternators and flux switching alternators, emphasizing their constructive fundamentals and their advantages and disadvantages. The analysis is completed with a critical assessment that classifies them according to previously defined requirements. Although the decision of the final choice is largely determined by the application of interest, it can be said that, in general, synchronous generators with permanent magnets in the rotor are the best option.Postprint (published version

A device for improving the immunity of AC contactor during voltage dips

This paper describes an electronic device that enables AC contactors to ride through power quality dsturbances. The proposed device is connected to the contactor coil and consists of a power conversion excitation and hold-in crcuit, a control circuit, an immunity circuit and a shutdown circuit. It does not disturb contactor operation, is easy to use nd can be built from cheap, commercially available components. Experimental tests have demonstrated the efectiveness of the proposed electronic device for improving the immunity of AC contactors during power quality disturbances, particularly voltage dips.Postprint (published version

Minimization of torque ripple in switched reluctance motor drives using direct instantaneous torque

Torque ripple is an inherent characteristic of switched reluctance motor drives due to its double salient geometry and it is a serious drawback in applications that require smooth torque and high dynamic performances. This paper presents some contributions to the minimization of torque ripple in SRM using direct instantaneous torque control (DITC). Direct torque controller is simulated using Matlab/Simulink and then implemented in a DSPACE ACE kit 1006 CLP that includes a processor board with an AMD OpteronTM running at 2.6 GHz. Finally, experimental results are shown and they are compared with those obtained using conventional angle control.Postprint (published version

Simulation of linear Switched Reluctance Motor drives

This paper presents a simulation model of linear switched reluctance motor drives. A Matlab-Simulink environment coupled with finite element analysis is used to perform the simulations. Experimental and simulation results for a double sided linear switched motor drive prototype are reported and compared to verify the simulation model.Postprint (published version