Multi-Objective Optimization of Medium-Scale Wound-Field Electric Generators

This work deals with the optimization of electric generators for multiple performance measures, e.g., efficiency and total harmonic distortion of the Back-EMF. For a given slot/pole-configuration, the key is to find the optimal rotor outer contour along the air gap. In order to obtain the ideal shape, multiple approaches can be followed, e.g., a Fourier-series based approach or a piecewise discretization of the circumference. This work is about comparing the different modeling approaches in terms of computational effort, modeling complexity versus design flexibility, and the possibility for acquiring additional information, as for instance the sensitivity of the contour regarding manufacturing tolerances.