A Level-Set-Based Topology Optimization for Maximizing the Torque of Synchronous Reluctance Machines

The article presents a level-set (LS)-based topology optimization method for improving the magnetic torque of electrical motors such as synchronous reluctance machines (SynRMs) using a 2-D magnetostatic finite-element context modeling. The novelty is the use of a fully analytical expression for the torque sensitivity analysis (SA) based on the virtual work principle which is more accurate and general than other methods and its application to an LS implementation. The numerical study of a synchronous reluctance machine is presented. Then, the LS method is detailed in a general context. The corresponding analytical continuous SA using the adjoint method to maximize the torque is expressed and validated. Finally, the application to the optimization of the rotor of a synchronous reluctance machine is shown to illustrate the efficiency of the method.