An optimization of an analytical problem with ninevariables is executed to find the optimal Permanent Magnet(PM)generator for a tidal turbine. A gradient based solver is used tofind the minimum cost of active materials for the given designspecifications. The MATLAB function fmincon is used, and thepossible minimization algorithms available for this function arecompared. As these solvers are only able to find a local minimum,a search is performed trying to find other minimas, both using aMultiStart procedure and using a Genetic Algorithm (GA). Lossesare calculated for windings, stator laminations and rotor magnetsand solid steel, and a constraint is put on efficiency. The cost effectof varying this constraint is investigated. Optimizations are donewith both weight and material cost as objective function, and thedifferent resulting designs are presented.
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