Numerical analysis of dynamic characteristics of electromagnets using 3-D finite element method with edge elements

This paper describes a new method for the accurate computation of the dynamic behavior of DC and AC electromagnets, such as used in contactors, relays and other electromagnetic devices. The method is based on the 3-D finite element method with edge elements taking into account the nonlinearity of the cores and the eddy current. For the dynamic analysis, it is necessary to change the 3-D meshes automatically. The analyzed model couples electrical, magnetic and mechanical systems of the electromagnets. Our method makes it possible to predict dynamic characteristics for the optimizing design of electromagnets. The validity of the new method is confirmed by experiments.<
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