A Linear Laminated Cylindrical Transverse Flux Machine for Use With a Free Piston Engine

Abstract

This paper discusses the development of a new topology of cylindrical transverse flux linear machine for use with a free piston engine. Despite its three-dimensional flux path, the stator of this topology can be made from regular laminated components and only the translator includes soft magnetic composites. The design development is discussed, including alternative winding and fabrication techniques. Finite element analysis, results of a laboratory prototype, and numerical-reluctance analysis are all used to give insight into the machine characteristics. By using flux and flux linkage factors, the tradeoff between force requirement and power factor is explored. It is shown that the power factor of this topology will generally vary from 0.89 to 0.6, which compares well with other transverse flux machines.