PHYSICA SCRIPTA, cilt.100, sa.8, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
The performance and longevity of Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) depend on an optimized drive system that balances energy efficiency, torque density, and spatial constraints. VADs, as battery-powered systems, require minimal energy consumption, while maximizing torque output for reliable operation. This study compares three small-scale Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM) topologies-Radial Flux (RFPMSM), Axial Flux (AFPMSM), and Outer Rotor (ORPMSM)-to determine the most suitable VAD drive system. Analytical modeling and 3D finite element analysis (FEA) evaluate key performance metrics, including torque production, back-EMF, efficiency, and losses. Results show that RFPMSM offers the highest torque density but increases device volume (110.4 cc); while AFPMSM is the most compact (66.4 cc) but has lower efficiency (65%). ORPMSM achieves the highest efficiency (84%) with a balanced footprint, making it ideal for compact, energy-efficient designs. An optimized RFPMSM design reduces its volume to 88.4 cc, improving feasibility for space-constrained applications. These findings emphasize that motor selection should prioritize efficiency, manufacturability, and seamless VAD integration to enhance next-generation implantable devices.