Novel axial flux interior PM synchronous motor realized with powdered soft magnetic materials

A novel axial flux interior PM (AFIPM) synchronous motor for wheel-motor applications is presented. Due to the new anisotropic rotor structure, the AFIPM motor can deliver constant power with flux weakening operation. The rotor construction is feasible only using powdered soft magnetic materials. The proposed design procedure uses the finite element method (FEM) in addition to the classical electric motor design rules. Complete design data of the prototype under study are presented and the manufacturing stage of the prototype is described too. The computed values of the machine parameters are compared to the values determined on the basis of experimental measurements. Finally the prototype motor characteristics are determined and presented.