Variational autoencoder-based techniques for a streamlined cross-topology modeling and optimization workflow in electrical drives

The generation and optimization of simulation data for electrical machines remain challenging, largely due to the complexities of magneto-static finite element analysis. Traditional methodologies are not only resource-intensive, but also time-consuming. Deep learning models can be used to shortcut these calculations. However, challenges arise when considering the unique parameter sets specific to each machine topology. Building on two recent studies (Parekh et al. in IEEE Trans. Magn. 58(9):1–4, 2022; Parekh et al., Deep learning based meta-modeling for multi-objective technology optimization of electrical machines, 2023, arXiv:2306.09087), that utilized a variational autoencoder to cohesively map diverse topologies into a singular latent space for subsequent optimization, this paper proposes a refined architecture and optimization workflow. Our modifications aim to streamline and enhance the robustness of both the training and optimization processes, and compare the results with the variational autoencoder architecture proposed recently.