A Wound-Field Three-Phase Flux-Switching Synchronous Motor With All Excitation Sources on the Stator

A three-phase, segmental-rotor, flux-switching synchronous motor is presented for the first time, with both field and armature windings placed on the stator. Mutual coupling of the circuits is through segments whose motion causes switching of flux in the armature circuit. The magnetic geometry is substantially different to that of other flux-switching machines (FSMs), and may offer advantages in terms of torque density and controllability. This paper describes the principles and the evaluation of a three-phase design, based on a 12-tooth stator with an eight-segment rotor, before introducing a prototype machine and test results. The prototype has been found to have torque density and profile comparable to that of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) of the same size.