Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop an algorithm and software for determining the size of a line-start permanent magnet synchronous motor (LSPMSMs) based on its optimization. Design/methodology/approach The software consists of an optimization procedure that cooperates with a FEM model to provide the desired behavior of the motor under consideration. The proposed improved version of the genetic algorithm has modifications enabling efficient optimization of LSPMSMs. The objective function consists of three important functional parameters describing the designed machine. The 2-D field-circuit mathematical model of the dynamics operation of the LSPMSMs consists of transient electromagnetic field equations, equations describing electric windings and mechanical motion equations. The model has been developed in the ANSYS Maxwell environment. Findings In this proposed approach, the set of design variables contains the variables describing the stator and rotor structure. The improved procedure of the optimization algorithm makes it possible to find an optimal motor structure with correct synchronization properties. The proposed modifications make the optimization procedure faster and more Originality/value This proposed approach can be successfully applied to solve the design problems of LSPMSMs.
