Design optimization of switched reluctance machines for performance and reliability enhancements: A review

Switched reluctance machines (SRMs) provide a potential candidate and a feasible solution with increased interest for industrial applications due to their simple and rigid structure without permanent magnets, low manufacturing cost, excellent power-speed characteristics, and high reliability. However, the nonlinear inductance/flux linkage characteristics caused by the double-salient structure of SRM have created the challenges like high torque ripple and vibration. To solve this problem, a significant number of research works focus on the design and optimization of SRMs. Accordingly, this paper presents an in-depth literature review on the status and potential trends of design optimization techniques for SRMs, including design theory, electromagnetic and thermal modeling methods, novel topologies, optimization classifications, and techniques for optimization efficiency and effects. Existing approaches regarding the above aspects of SRMs are extensively discussed and comprehensively summarized. In addition, some essential trends in design optimization development are presented and highlighted as future perspectives. All the highlighted insights and recommendations of this review will hopefully lead to increasing efforts toward the performance and reliability enhancements of SRMs for future applications.