Design Considerations and Optimization of Homopolar Inductor Alternators of Aerospace Power Systems

In former papers 1,2,3 the authors have analyzed the behavior of homopolar inductor alternators, considering all non-linearities and load conditions. As a logical sequence, a means to find the main dimensions of a new design for a specific aerospace power system is presented. The limitations imposed by the high-speed operation are pointed out. Dimensional analysis is used as a method for optimizing alternators for minimum armature leakage for frequency-changing power system. The relation of slot width to slot depth of the armature is optimized for minimum excitation.