Computation of load performance and other parameters of extra highspeed modified Lundell alternators from 3D-FE magnetic field solutions

A combined magnetic vector potential, magnetic scalar potential method of computation of 3-D magnetic fields by finite elements, in combination with state modeling in the abc frame of reference, is used for global 3-D magnetic field analysis and machine performance computation under rated load and overload condition in an example 14.3 kVA modified Lundell alternator. The results vividly demonstrate the 3-D nature of the magnetic field in such machines and show how this model can be used as an excellent tool for computation of flux density distributions, armature current and voltage waveform profiles, and harmonic contents, as well as for computation of torque profiles and ripples. Use of the model in gaining insight into locations of regions in the magnetic circuit with heavy degrees of saturation is demonstrated. Experimental results which correlate well with the simulations of the load case are given     

Three dimensional magnetic fields in extra high speed modifiedLundell alternators computed by a combined vector-scalar magneticpotential finite element method

A three-dimensional (3-D) finite-element (FE) approach was developed and implemented for computation of global magnetic fields in a 14.3 kVA modified Lundell alternator. The essence of the method is the combined use of magnetic vector and scalar potential formulations in 3-D FEs. This approach makes it practical, using state-of-the-art supercomputer resources, to globally analyze magnetic fields and operating performances of rotating machines which have 3-D magnetic flux patterns. The 3-D FE computed fields and machine inductances as well as various machine performance simulations of the 14.3-kVA machine are presented     

Three dimensional magnetic field computation by a coupledvector-scalar potential method in brushless DC motors with skewedpermanent magnet mounts-the formulation and FE grids

A three dimensional finite element (3D-FE) method for the computation of global distributions of 3D magnetic fields in electric machines containing permanent magnets is presented. The formulation of this 3D-FE method including 3D permanent magnet modeling, which is based on a coupled magnetic vector potential-magnetic scalar potential (CMVP-MSP) approach, is given. The development of the necessary 3D-FE grids and algorithms for the application of the method to an example brushless DC motor, whose field is three dimensional due to the skewed permanent magnet mounts on its rotor, is also given here. A complete set of results of application of the method to the computation of the global 3D field distributions and associated motor parameters under no-load and load conditions are detailed in a companion paper     

Quasi-3-D analytical modeling of the magnetic field of an axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machine

A quasi-three-dimensional (3-D) analytical model of the magnetic field in an axial flux permanent-magnet synchronous machine is presented. This model is derived from an exact two-dimensional analytical solution of the magnetic field extended to the 3-D case by a simple and effective radial dependence modeling of the magnetic field. The obtained quasi-3-D solution allows rapid parametric studies of the air-gap magnetic field. Then, analytical modeling of the cogging torque is presented. It is based on the obtained quasi-3-D analytical solution. Results issued from the proposed model in the air gap are compared with those stemming from a 3-D finite-element method simulation as well as with prototype measured values.     

Design and analysis of 42-V permanent-magnet generator for automotive applications

The new 42-V automotive electric system comes up with new requirements for alternator design. A three-phase permanent-magnet (PM) synchronous generator for automotive applications is designed using analytical algorithms. The electromagnetic (EM) field for a certain design is analyzed based on a proposed equivalent magnetic circuit model. The proposed model is validated by comparing the analysis results using the model and those based on finite-element analysis under no-load and full-load conditions for saturation considerations. The analysis results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed machine design methodology.     

Application of 3-D lumped parameter model in MHD generator design

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) energy conversion consists of electrical energy generation directly from high enthalpy of ionized gas. MHD generators are devices having a channel in which ionized gas (plasma) is blown, where a high magnetic field is present. The interaction between the conductive gas and the magnetic field makes the conversion. To describe and to design the MHD plants, circuital models of MHD generators are advantageous for an easier investigation approach to the interface between generators and power plants; they become extremely useful when a 3-D analysis is necessary for easier computation taking into account 3-D effects due to spatial distribution of electromagnetic fields. In this paper we describe some design applications of the three-dimensional (3-D) lumped parameter model for MHD generators     

Application of bi-State magnetic material to an automotive IPM starter/alternator machine

A new bi-state soft magnetic material has been developed that can have its normally high magnetic permeability reduced permanently to that of air by means of heat treatment. As a result, localized heating via laser or other means can be used to locally "unmagnetize" regions in machine laminations while retaining the high permeability of adjacent untreated regions. A 6 kW interior permanent magnet (IPM) direct-drive starter/alternator machine was used as the target for this investigation. Two alternative designs for the same set of starter/alternator specifications are presented using the new magnetic material for the rotor laminations. Lumped-parameter magnetic circuit models including saturation were used to design both machines and the electromagnetic performance results were subsequently confirmed using finite element analysis (FEA). These results indicate that the performance specifications can be met using this new material while significantly increasing the mechanical integrity of the rotor at high speeds. Advantages and limitations of using this new bi-state magnetic material in IPM machine designs for starter/alternators and other applications are discussed.     

Comprehensive salient-pole synchronous machine parametric designanalysis using time-step finite element-state space modeling techniques

This paper details the application of a time-stepping coupled finite element-state space (CFE-SS) model to predict a salient-pole synchronous generator's parameters and performance, including damper bar current profiles and bar losses as well as iron core (including pole face) losses, under various operating conditions. The CFE-SS modeling environment is based on the natural ABC flux linkage frame of reference, which is coupled to a time/rotor stepping FE magnetic field and machine winding inductance profile computation model. This allows one to rigorously include the synergism between the space harmonics generated by magnetic saturation and machine magnetic circuit as well as winding layout topologies, and the time harmonics generated by the nonsinusoidal phase currents, ripple rich field excitation and damper bar currents. The impact of such synergism between these space and time harmonics on damper bar current profiles and losses, iron core losses, various machine winding current, voltage and torque profiles/waveforms is studied here for a 10-pole, 44.9 kVA, 17,143 RPM, 1428.6 Hz, 82 V (L-N), wound-pole aircraft generator     

Three dimensional magnetic field computation by a coupledvector-scalar potential method in brushless DC motors with skewedpermanent magnet mounts-the no-load and load results

The coupled magnetic vector potential-magnetic scalar potential (CMVP-MSP) method of computation of 3D magnetic fields by finite elements (3D-FE) is applied here to a brushless DC motor with skewed permanent magnet mounts on its rotor. Results of the CMVP-MSP and 3D-FE computation of the magnetic field and associated motor parameters (EMFs and armature inductances) are detailed in this paper. These results demonstrate vividly the three dimensional nature of the computed flux distributions, caused by the torque ripple reduction design employing skewed magnet mounts on the rotor. Experimental evidence supporting the validity of the BD-FE field computations, through comparison between computed and measured armature EMF waveforms is also provided in this paper     

Effects of forced power transfer on high speed generator-loadsystems

A computer-aided method for investigating disturbances due to the forced paralleling of out of phase high speed salient pole AC generator systems feeding isolated loads is presented. The method is used to predict the system performance including the reverse voltage across the rotating bridge rectifier of the field exciter. This paper presents the fundamentals and the modeling approach used in the development of this method. In addition, the results of using this approach to compute the machine parameters under different load conditions including saturation effects due to magnetic material nonlinearities and space harmonics effects due to machine geometry and winding layouts are presented. The computed parameters are validated by comparison to test data. These parameters form the main data for simulating the forced paralleling of out of phase high speed salient pole AC generator systems feeding isolated loads. Further, the results of using this modeling approach in a case study to predict the system performance due to forced power transfer are summarized and are shown to be in good agreement with test data     

Analytical derivation of a coupled-circuit model of a claw-polealternator with concentrated stator windings

A lumped-parameter coupled-circuit model of a claw-pole alternator is derived. To derive the model, analytical techniques are used to define a three-dimensional (3-D) Fourier-series representation of the airgap flux density. Included in the series expansion are the harmonics introduced by rotor saliency, concentrated stator windings, and stator slots. From the airgap flux density waveform, relatively simple closed-form expressions for the stator and rotor self- and mutual-inductances are obtained. The coupled-circuit model is implemented in the simulation of an alternator/rectifier system using a commercial state-model-based circuit analysis program. Comparisons with experimental results demonstrate the accuracy of the model in predicting both the steady-state and transient behavior of the machine     

Modeling and design optimization of switched reluctance machine byboundary element analysis and simulation

Nonlinear boundary element analysis provides a more accurate and detailing tool for the design of switched reluctance machines than conventional equivalent-circuit methods. Design optimization through more detailed analysis and simulation can reduce development and prototyping costs and time to market. Firstly, magnetic field modeling of an industrial switched reluctance machine by the boundary element method is reported in this paper. Secondly, performance prediction and dynamic simulation of motor and control design are presented. Thirdly, magnetic forces that cause noise and vibration are studied, to include the effects of motor and control design variations on noise in the design process. Testing of such a motor in the NEMA 215-Frame size is carried out to verify the accuracy of modeling and simulation     

Identification of high-order synchronous generator models from SSFRtest data

This paper presents a direct maximum-likelihood estimation procedure to identify the synchronous machine models based on the standstill frequency response (SSFR) test data. The method presented in this study is the first and only algorithm utilizing all available SSFR test data under both shorted and open field circuit conditions to establish a unique equivalent circuit model by maximizing the conditional probability density function of the error residuals. The method is applied to the modeling of two well-known generators, namely the Rockport and Nanticoke generators, using the measured SSFR test data. The results of the study show that by incorporating both the open and short-circuit SSFR data in the modeling process, the SSFR characteristics of the two generators can be accurately represented by the established high order synchronous models up to 1 kHz. The identified synchronous machine model consists of five amortisseur windings on each axis. In addition, an eddy-current effect impedance is included in the d-axis model for representing the increased influence of rotor eddy current under the open-circuit test condition     

Direct modeling of switched reluctance machine by coupledfield-circuit method

Transient analysis of a switched reluctance machine (SRM) system is complicated by its unconventional nonsinusoidal operation and highly nonlinear characteristics. The analysis, however, is essential not only for optimizing the SRM magnetic structure but also for proper control of the associated power electronic circuit. In this paper, a direct modeling method for analysis of a SRM system including the power electronic converter, control and the nonlinear magnetic field of the SRM is established. The finite element method is used to model the nonlinear magnetic field, and is coupled to the circuit model of the SRM overall system. Assumptions of current density in FEA and various types of flux-current characteristics in circuit analysis are eliminated. With simultaneous computation over the entire system, the computer model provides abundant information regarding the SRM system. Experimental results are presented to prove the accuracy of the model     

A Field Reconstruction Technique for Efficient Modeling of the Fields and Forces Within Induction Machines

Traditional analysis and design of induction machines have been largely based upon lumped-parameter models. An alternative tool used for field-based evaluations of an induction machine is the finite-element method. Although useful, its computational complexity limits its use as a design tool. In this paper, a field reconstruction (FR) method for induction machine simulation is introduced. The FR method utilizes a small number of finite-element evaluations to establish basis functions of normal and tangential flux densities. The basis functions are then used to estimate the magnetic field under arbitrary stator excitation. Using such a tool, evaluation of fields and forces produced by a machine under alternative excitation strategies can be explored efficiently. Moreover, alternative field-based derivation of stator/rotor excitation control can be explored.      

Noninvasive technique for determining parameter values from thesudden short-circuit test data of brushless alternators

The significant influence of the brushless exciter on the short-circuit response is discussed. A novel, noninvasive technique is proposed, which allows the parameters of the main machine to be deduced from a sudden short-circuit test on an unmodified brushless alternator. This is done by utilizing measurements taken from the stationary exciter field, but the results are processed in such a way that the effects of the exciter on the combined machine are excluded. If required, however, the “effective” parameters of an equivalent slip-ring machine, comprising the combination of the main machine and exciter, can also be extracted. It is suggested that this is a considerable improvement on existing techniques     

Integrated Nonlinear Magnetic Field-Network Simulation of an Electronically Commutated Permanent Magnet Motor System under Normal Operation

An integrated magnetic field-network computer-aided method is presented, and is verified here by applying it in the determination of the performance of an electronically commutated permanent magnet motor system, and comparing the results with test results at rated operating conditions. Test results were found to be in very good agreement with numerical simulation data. At the core of this method are the instantaneous calculation of the magnetic field distribution within the machine, using the finite element method, and the determination of the winding inductances from these field solutions with the aid of an energy perturbation technique. The armature induced emfs are also obtained from these field solutions. These winding parameters, which are load dependent, are used in a nonlinear time domain network model of first order differential equations governing the dynamic performance of the motor to solve for the instantaneous phase currents. These new currents are then used at every time instant to determine the corresponding machine winding parameters, and the above process is repeated at successive time instants until the complete analysis period is covered. Though the validity of this method of analysis is verified in this paper by applying it to a 15 hp (11.2kw), 120 volt electronically commutated brushless dc motor system operating under normal and balanced conditions, the real utility of the method lies in its ability to analyze these motor systems under unbalanced partial or total component failure (fault) in the windings and associated conditioners. This type of application is given in a companion paper.     

基于CAD/CFD发动机气道的设计

以应用于实际设计为目的,研究了三维造型设计方法在发动机螺旋进气道设计中的应用。实现了PROE设计以及高精度的流动数值模拟,为气道的设计与改进提供了高效实用的研究手段。讨论了螺旋气道三维建模的基本过程,研究了网格尺寸对计算结果收敛性的影响。最后,以气道试验验证计算结果的准确性。三维设计表明,现代设计方法的应用有益于克服传统设计中的盲目性与局限性,提高产品的自主开发能力与设计制造质量。     

Nonlinear Vector Potential Formulation and Experimental Verification of Newton-Raphson Solution of Three Dimensional Magnetostatic Fields in Electrical Devices

An iterative technique, based on magnetic vector potential formulation and the Newton-Raphson method, for the determination of the three dimensional magnetostatic field distributions in electrical devices is given. The proper degrees of magnetic saturation in the various materials within a given volume under consideration are obtained by repeated evaluation of the reluctivities in that volume, using a cubic spline representation of the B-H magnetization characteristics of composite materials (laminations). The formulation has been applied to a practical example of determining the field in and around a shell type 1.5 kva single phase transformer. The convergence and implementation characteristics of the developed method are given in this paper which show a saving of about 34% in CPU solution time in comparison with previously published methods. Experimental verification is given in terms of a comparison between computed and experimentally obtained values of flux densities surrounding the transformer core and winding, under heavily saturated conditions. Excellent agreement between test and calculated flux densities was achieved. This method is thus quite applicable to the solution of a wide class of three dimensional magnetostatic field problems associated with electrical apparatus.     

A Schwarz–Christoffel-Based Analytical Method for Electric Machine Field Analysis

With the recent increase in the availability and widespread use of inverters, exotic rare earth permanent-magnet materials, and low-cost, precision manufacturing, new design tools are needed to aid engineers in designing state-of-the-art electromechanical systems. For this purpose, recent software advances allow a reexamination of previously intractable analytical solutions to the boundary value problems governing these systems. This paper presents an analytical field analysis method for electric machines utilizing the Schwarz–Christoffel transformation and implemented with the SC Toolbox software package. With the method, general 2-D electric machine cross sections with linear magnetic materials are analyzed. The method is then extended using superposition to analyze wound-rotor induction machines in the time domain. With this extension, numerous machine geometries, stator excitations, winding and slot harmonics, and torque ripple can be examined.