Analysis of a bearingless machine with divided windings

This paper shows some characteristics of a bearingless three-phase induction motor with divided windings independently controlled to generate radial and rotational forces. The analysis of this device has been performed by a two-dimensional finite-element model which has allowed the prediction of the machine performances in terms of current, torque, and force behavior. Some preliminary experimental results have been used to validate the model, then computational results have been considered to provide a radial force prediction in order to improve the control performances.