Comprehensive Review on Topology Optimization for Enhancing Electric Machine Performance: Concepts, Methods, Achievements, and Challenges

Conventional techniques for optimizing the design of electric machines use optimization algorithms to determine the geometric variables within a predefined range. However, these methods are limited by manufacturing constraints and the designer experience in parameterization. Topology optimization aims to enhance the performance of electric machines by manipulating the distribution of materials as a design factor. The enhancement can further be facilitated by additive manufacturing, particularly via the manufacturing of intricate metal parts. In this paper, topology optimization for electric machines is comprehensively reviewed. Firstly, the requirement for topology optimization is illustrated, and both the achievements and challenges of this technique over the traditional parametric optimization are described. Then, a description is given of different topology optimization methods that were reported in the literature, followed by an analysis of the computation overheads and manufacturability of optimized designs. Finally, the development opportunities of this technology are shown in the electric machine design field.