Publisher's Synopsis
Finite element (FE) software is useful for predicting the performance of complex geometry devices, or complex or distorted magnetic cirucuits - but FE modelling has been regarded as difficult, tedious and time consuming. However, the introduction of automatic mesh generators and macro files, which can be used to set up models with the minimum of input data from the operator, has substantially changed this situation.;This report describes, with simple examples, how a program incorporating FE software can be developed and used to optimize the performance of particular magnetic devices with minimum operator effort. It describes how to set up the model by inspection for angular or spacial symmetry, and by the selection of the correct boundary conditions to ensure not only a correct solution, but also that it is obtained with a minimum of computation time and storage.;The report decribes ways of handling B-H curves and anistropy of soft materials, and the magnetization of permanent magnet materials. The analysis of electromagnetic devices is introduced via the fundamental equations that govern the relationship between magnetic fields and flux. The means of employing these equations in FE software is described, an example is given of the techniques to set up a model of a device (pre-processing) and the extraction of the necessary solution parameters (post-processing).;Finally, the report highlights the care that must be taken to use the correct data for the material in the form to be employed and in the magnetic condition that is to be exploited. The need for improved magnetic models to handle hysteresis and anistropy, and for very small components is described, and the influence of thermal and mechanical stress on magnetic property is explained.
