Cogging torque suppression in a permanent-magnet flux-switching integrated-starter-generator

Permanent-magnet flux-switching (PMFS) machine offers high torque density, impressive flux-weakening capability and mechanical ruggedness because of its distinctive configuration, and is potentially suitable for the application in automotive integrated-starter-generators (ISGs). However, the PMFS machine generally exhibits higher cogging torque compared with other machines commonly used in ISGs. Minimisation of the cogging torque in the PMFS machine for its utility in ISGs is therefore of particular importance. Four rotor topologies are proposed here as cost-effective means to suppress the cogging torque of a PMFS ISG. The validity of the proposed techniques has been confirmed by both two- dimensional finite-element analysis and experimental results. Moreover, the influence on the back electromagnetic force by these techniques is also investigated.