In this article, a novel asymmetric-hybrid-pole variable flux memory machine (AHP-VFMM) is proposed and designed to realize satisfactory unintentional demagnetization (UD) withstand capability and high global efficiency, as well as lower flux regulation (FR) current level. The machine is structurally distinguished by a simple structure of asymmetric high coercive force (HCF) and low coercive force (LCF) permanent magnets (PMs). The main magnetic path of the proposed machine can be changed by manipulating the magnetization state (MS) of LCF PMs, resulting in significantly different field distributions and a large flux regulation range. The proposed AHP-VFMM and symmetric hybrid-pole VFMM (SHP-VFMM) are analyzed based on an equivalent magnetic circuit, and the design criteria of HCF PM in the AHP-VFMM to achieve better magnetic stability is deduced. Sensitive analysis is conducted to identify high- and low-sensitivity parameters of the AHP-VFMM. Then a two-layer optimization is conducted based on multi-objective genetic algorithm. The shape of LCF PM is further modified to improve the UD withstand capability. Afterwards, the AHP-VFMM is compared with an optimized SHP-VFMM with respect to electromagnetic and structural characteristics. Finally, an AHP-VFMM prototype is fabricated and tested to validate the feasibility of the proposed design.

This paper presents a comparative analysis of two parallel hybrid magnet memory machines (PHMMMs) with different permanent magnet (PM) arrangements. The proposed machines are both geometrically characterized by a parallel U-shaped hybrid PM configuration and several q-axis magnetic barriers. The configurations and operating principles of the investigated machines are introduced firstly. The effect of magnet arrangements on the performance of the proposed machines is then evaluated with a simplified magnetic circuit model. Furthermore, the electromagnetic characteristics of the proposed machines are investigated and compared by the finite-element method (FEM). The experiments on one prototype are carried out to validate the FEM results.