Three dimensional force prediction in a model linear brushless DC motor

Practical results are presented for the three axes forces produced on the primary of a linear brushless DC machine which is supplied from a three-phase delta-modulated inverter. Conditions of both lateral alignment and lateral displacement are considered. Finite element analysis using both two and three dimensional modelling is compared with the practical results. It is shown that a modified two dimensional model is adequate, where it can be used, in the aligned position and that the full three dimensional method gives good results when the machine is axially misaligned.<>