This paper proposes an innovative design method for the cogging torque suppression of permanent magnet machines with a segmented stator core. This method is based on the design of the shape of the stator tooth tips through a quasi-binary optimization using a genetic algorithm and iterative finite element analysis. The method has been applied to an annular permanent magnet synchronous machine with a segmented stator core for a low power wind generator. The solutions achieved by the optimization have been validated through accurate finite element analysis. The optimized machine shows a reduction of the cogging torque by 94% in comparison with the basic one.