Multi-objective optimal design of double-sided switched reluctance linear generator for wave power generation

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a double-sided switched reluctance linxear generator (DSRLG) exclusively for wave power generation. The initial dimensions are given through design experience and principles. To ameliorate comprehensive performance of the DSRLG, the multi-objective optimization design is processed.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-objective optimization design of the DSRLG is processed by adopting a modified entropy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) algorithm. First, sensitivity analyzes on geometric parameters of the DSRLG are conducted to determine several pivotal geometric parameters as optimization variables. Then, the multi-objective optimization is conducted on the basis of initial dimensions. After determination of synthetical evaluation value of each structure parameter, the best dimension scheme of the DSRLG is concluded.

Findings

After verification by finite element method simulation and dynamic simulation, the final dimension scheme proves to perform better than the initial scheme. Finally, experiments are conducted to verify the accuracy of both the stable finite element DSRLG model and dynamic simulation system model so that the conclusion of this paper proves to be reliable and compelling.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an improved structure of the DSRLG, which is superior for wave power generation. Meanwhile, a novel modified entropy TOPSIS algorithm is applied to the field of electrical machine multi-objective optimal design for the first time.

Citation

Zhao, S., Chen, H., Nie, R. and Liu, J. (2019), "Multi-objective optimal design of double-sided switched reluctance linear generator for wave power generation", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 38 No. 6, pp. 1948-1963. https://doi.org/10.1108/COMPEL-12-2018-0541