Analysis of Permanent Magnet Motors (TR or DP)
Coupled Analysis of Magnetic Fields and Electrical Circuits
JMAG Trial Version Trial
Version
JMAG Video Tutorials Video
Tutorials
back to the overview
Coupled analysis of magnetic fields and electrical circuits

In the analysis of electrical and electronic devices, considering the circuits that control the devices allows for a more sophisticated and realistic simulation. There are some cases where analysis may not be possible without coupled analysis of circuits and motion. For example, coupled analysis is essential for PM motors that are activated by the switching operation of a three-phase square-wave voltage, as shown in the Figure 1.
Analysis of PM motor activated by switching
Figure 1 - Analysis of PM motor activated by switching

JMAG performs a complete coupled analysis by connecting circuits consisting of resistors, capacitors, coils or switches to a FEM model. Also, since motion can be incorporated using BEM or a sliding interface, realistic analysis of motors and actuators is possible.
In this example, with a 1/4-size model due to its symmetry, the analysis is conducted until the torque and electric current reach steady state conditions.

Animations showing the magnetic flux distribution

Magnetic flux contours Magnetic flux distribution
Animation of magnetic flux contours. For a more realistic view, see the full animation file (124 kB). Animation of magnetic flux distribution. For a more realistic view, see the full animation file (180 kB).

Reliable simulated values

Figures 4 show the time history of the phase currents and torque. These show that JMAG simulation is capable of capturing even pulsation caused by switching. Figures 5 and 6 show the relationship between torque and rotation speed, and the waveform of the cogging torque. It can be seen that the results obtained from the JMAG simulation correspond favorably to experimental results.

FTime domain response
Figure 4 - FTime domain response
Enlarged View

Time domain response Cogging torque
Figure 5 - Time domain response
Enlarged View
Figure 6 - Cogging torque
Enlarged View