Silicon rectifier generators, which are single-excitation generators, are commonly used in vehicles. However, a traditional single-excitation generator cannot satisfy the requirements of modern vehicles due to its low efficiency, high failure rate and large excitation loss; a hybrid excitation generator is more suitable for a wide range of applications in vehicles because of its many advantages. In this study, a novel, high-efficiency and energy-saving hybrid excitation generator with a claw-pole series magnetic circuit for vehicles was designed. The magnetic circuit and principle of operation were analyzed. The structure parameters of the hybrid excitation generator were initially designed according to motor design theory. The model of the hybrid excitation generator was built based on the finite element method, and the no-load characteristic was analyzed. Furthermore, the influences of the permanent magnet thickness and core slot width on the performance of the generator were analyzed. According to the results, the structural parameters were optimized. The no-load output characteristics and load characteristics were compared between the generator and a silicon rectifier generator, and the test results show that the design, simulation and optimization methods were reasonable. This provides theoretical support and research methods for the development of a hybrid excitation generator.
