Design Optimization and Construction of Double-Sided Linear Induction Motor

Linear induction motors have single and double-sided structures which are used in special applications, according to their advantages and disadvantages. Due to advantages such as lack of normal forces in double-sided type, these motors are more controllable and popular than the single-sided type, especially for transportation applications.  In literature, single-sided linear induction motors have gained more attentions; so, there are few work on double-sided type. In this paper, first, equations are proposed for calculation of the equivalent circuit parameters of these motors, considering end-effect. Then, a method is proposed to design the motor, employing the presented equivalent circuit. Using the proposed method, a double-sided linear induction motor is designed. Then, to minimize the primary weight and maximize the efficiency and the power factor, the designed motor is optimized by using Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm. One of the important factors in design that affects the construction cost is the weight of the machine. The optimization results show that the initial weight of the motor decreases from 44 kg in the non-optimal case to 18.31 kg in the optimal case. For validation, the optimization results are compared with finite element analysis results and a laboratory prototype test results. The comparison of the experimental and the finite element results with optimization results confirms the validity of the proposed method.