Review of Fault-tolerant Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Design and Control for Future Aircraft Application

A guidance for preparing permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs) that exhibit huge potential for applications in transportation electrification owing to their high power density and efficiency is provided. However, concerns remain regarding the use of conventional PMSMs for safety-critical aircraft systems. The failure modes of PMSMs in relation to their electrical, magnetic, and mechanical properties are reviewed. Failure tree analysis is used to list a series of independent faults. The corresponding fault diagnosis methods including model, signal processing, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based models are demonstrated separately. Moreover, state-of-the-art designs for fault-tolerant PMSMs are presented and suggested. Advanced control methods for machine failure scenarios are also discussed, which could potentially pave the way for post-fault aerospace operations. A case study of a fault-tolerant PMSM design is introduced, along with some post-fault operation mechanisms. All these efforts could improve the reliability and safety of PMSM for future aircraft applications.