Research of Shark Concept Using 3D Finite Element Analysis

Due to their comparatively higher efficiency and power density, permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) is the most popular type of the electric machines used for the traction systems in electric vehicles (EV). Considering the increasing cost of rare earth materials and other disadvantages of PMSMs, it is necessary to develop reluctance machines needed for the usage in the EVs. In order to increase the competitiveness of the reluctance machines, it is important to develop solutions that would increase their torque density, overall efficiency, and eliminate disadvantages such as torque ripple, which is very undesirable in the field of EVs. One of the solutions is in the development of the longitudinal cross-section of the electric machine tooth zone - the proposed use of the Shark concept. In this paper, several Shark profiles (air gap shapes) are examined. Results of experiments conducted of three-dimensional (3D) magnetic field calculations using finite element analysis (FEA) have been discussed and the efficiency and behaviour of different Shark profiles have been compared. The results of experiments show that the Shark concept can be a perspective solution for the improvement of the reluctance machines, thus making them more competitive in the field of the traction systems of EVs.