Investigation of a novel intensifying-flux hybrid excited permanent magnet machine for electric vehicles

Purpose To address the issues of the insufficient output torque associated with the application of intensifying-flux permanent magnet (PM) machines in electric vehicles, this paper aims to propose an intensifying-flux hybrid excitation PM machine. It is possible to adjust the air gap magnetic field by adjusting the field current in the excitation winding, thereby increasing the torque output capability and speed range of the machine. Design/methodology/approach First, a novel intensifying-flux hybrid excited permanent magnet synchronous machine (IF-HEPMSM) is proposed on the basis of intensifying-flux permanent magnet synchronous machine (IF-PMSM) and an equivalent magnetic circuit model is established. Second, the tooth width and yoke thickness of the machine stator are optimized to ensure the overload capacity of the machine while effectively improving the wide flux regulation range. Furthermore, the electromagnetic characteristics of the IF-HEPMSM are investigated and compared with the IF-PMSM and conventional permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) by using finite element simulations. Findings The i d of IF-HEPMSM and IF-PMSM is greater than zero low-speed magnetizing current. And the flux-weakening current of the IF-HEPMSM is 18% and 3% smaller than of the conventional PMSM and IF-PMSM. Practical implications Aiming at the problems of IF-PMSM applied to electric vehicles, this paper proposes an IF-HEPMSM. The air gap magnetic field is adjusted by controlling the current of the excitation winding to improve the reliability of the machine. Therefore, the IF-HEPMSM combines the advantages of high-power density and high efficiency of the PMSM and the controllable magnetic field of the electro-excitation machine, which is of great engineering value when applied in the field of electric vehicles. Originality/value The proposed IF-HEPMSM offers better flux regulation capability with electromagnetic characteristics analysis and maps of d q-axis current as compared to IF-PMSM and conventional PMSM. Moreover, the improvement of the torque can make up for the shortcomings of the insufficient torque output capability of the IF-PMSM.