Design optimisation of a fault-tolerant PM motor drive for an aerospace actuation application

M. Rottach, C. Gerada, P. W. Wheeler

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

More-electric aircraft architectures are a well-known approach to reduce the environmental impact of air transport as well as to improve on fuel efficiency. Specifically, electric actuation of flight control surfaces is also seen as an effective way to improve aircraft efficiency while reducing operational cost. Electromechanical actuators (EMA) for flight control surfaces are complex components and a thorough and integrated optimisation of the EMA is required in order to be competitive with existing hydraulic solutions. In this context, this paper presents details of the design optimisation of a fault-tolerant permanent magnet (PM) motor drive for an aerospace application, in particular for an EMA in a helicopter primary flight control application. Emphasis is put on the integrated weight optimisation of the whole motor drive. The fault-tolerant EMA actuation system is described in detail and the design and optimisation of the dual channel, fault-tolerant electrical machine and the power converter within the EMA structure is presented. Prototypes of the electrical machines and the power converters were manufactured and measurement results are presented, validating the models used in the optimisation process.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication7th IET International Conference on Power Electronics, Machines and Drives, PEMD 2014
PublisherInstitution of Engineering and Technology
Edition628 CP
ISBN (Print)9781849198158
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014
Externally publishedYes
Event7th IET International Conference on Power Electronics, Machines and Drives, PEMD 2014 - Manchester, United Kingdom
Duration: 8 Apr 201410 Apr 2014

Publication series

NameIET Conference Publications
Number628 CP
Volume2014

Conference

Conference7th IET International Conference on Power Electronics, Machines and Drives, PEMD 2014
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityManchester
Period8/04/1410/04/14

Keywords

  • Aerospace EMA
  • Drive optimisation
  • Fault-tolerance
  • Lumped parameters
  • Particle swarm optimisation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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