Multi-objective design optimization of a surface permanent-magnet slotless alternator for small power wind generation

Over the last few decades, due to the need for clean energy production from renewable sources, wind generation has been gaining increasing importance. Efforts are being put, in particular, on the attempt to optimize the electric generation system between wind turbines and the grid. This paper reports on the development of a prototype slotless surface-permanent-magnet generator conceived for a 20 kW power station. The reasons which led to choose a slotless permanent-magnet generator topology are discussed along with the machine electromagnetic design optimization, carried out with stochastic algorithms. Finally, some preliminary test result on the prototype are reported.