Shape Optimization of Rotating Electric Machines Using Isogeometric Analysis

This work deals with shape optimization of electric machines using isogeometric analysis. Isogeometric analysis is particularly well suited for shape optimization as it allows to easily modify the geometry without remeshing the domain. A 6-pole interior permanent magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM) is modeled using a multipatch isogeometric approach and rotation of the machine is realized by modeling the stator and rotor domain separately and coupling them at the interface using harmonic basis functions. Shape sensitivity analysis is used to find the shape derivative of the optimization goal functional, i.e., the total harmonic distortion of the electromotive force. This method allows for a freeform shape optimization which is not restricted by a choice of a set of optimization parameters. This freeform shape optimization is applied for the first time to an isogeometric model of an IPMSM minimizing the total harmonic distortion of the electromotive force as a goal functional, where a reduction of 75 % is achieved.