Design Optimization of a Ladder Secondary Single-Sided Linear Induction Motor for Improved Performance

In this paper, design and optimization of a ladder-type single-sided linear induction motor (Ladder SLIM) for machine tool applications is investigated. High-speed linear induction machines suffer from the end-effect phenomenon, which can reduce the thrust and result in declined output characteristics. Although it is common to consider this phenomenon in high-speed applications, it is essential to take it into account in the design and analysis of low-speed low-air-gap linear machines. In addition, Ladder SLIMs have significant flux density ripples, and using skewed bars for secondary of the machine is a common solution for it. Therefore, providing required equations, an algorithm for designing a Ladder SLIM considering the end-effect phenomenon based on Duncan model is proposed, and effect of several design parameters on the output characteristics are analyzed. In order to find the optimum design parameters, a multiobjective optimization problem considering efficiency, power factor, and braking force due to the end effect is defined. This problem is optimized with two algorithms, interior point and genetic algorithms, and results are compared. Finally, the validity of the obtained solution is verified using a 2-D and 3-D time-stepping finite-element method.