Optimal Design and Simulation of an Axial Flux Machine for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Abstract Currently, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are present in numerous sectors of the economy, which require them to carry out services with agility, safety and precision. This equipment can be designed in the multi-rotor concept, using several electric motors, normally with permanent magnets and radial flux. Another alternative would be to use axial flux electric motors, which have a potentially higher power density and help to reduce the weight of the UAV. In addition, the use of grain-oriented steel in the mo-tor stator contributed to reducing magnetic losses and increasing aircraft efficiency. Thus, this work proposes the development of a permanent magnet axial flux motor, using grain-oriented steel in a yokeless and segmented armature. The technical specifications for a UAV application in agriculture are presented, as well as the mathematical modeling required for optimized motor design. Finally, the developed project is validated through 3D finite element electromagnetic field simulations, demonstrating the feasibility of using rectangular teeth to simplify the stator assembly process.