Design Optimization and Prototyping of a Double-Rotor Axial-Flux Spoke-Type Ferrite-Magnet Micro-Wind Generator

Abstract

This paper presents the design optimization and prototyping of a three-phase double-sided axial-flux ferrite-magnet micro-wind generator with inner coreless stator and two twin spoke-type ferrite-magnet outer rotors. Sensitivity analysis of the initial basic design is first conducted with respect to changes in stator and rotor geometries by using comprehensive magnetic-field finite-element analyses (FEAs). Then, genetic algorithm-based design bi-objective optimization is carried out, and FEA-computed results for initial and optimized are comparatively assessed. The optimally-designed micro-wind generator prototype fabrication technology is further described. Lastly, experiments on the built prototype under active rectifier –resistor load operating conditions are performed by using laboratory test bench with implemented maximum wind-power extracting control technique.