Rotor configuration comparison for the design of a PM conical machine

This paper proposes the design of a permanent magnet (PM) conical machine. Conical machines are known for the complexity of their structure that implies laborious manufacturing processes. The suggested design aims to reduce the fabrication challenges related to the rotor assembly. In its simplified form, the main concept is based on the use of off-the-shelf PMs as opposed to customized magnets that have unconventional geometry and require extended tooling time. The study shows how readily available PMs can be utilized in a `smart' way to reach very good performance. This has been demonstrated through the design and the realization of a full-scale prototype. The main design objective functions for the optimal rotor configuration include the torque performance and harmonic output content.