Two-dimensional finite-element analysis of a high-force-density linear switched reluctance machine including three-dimensional effects

This paper presents results of a finite-element analysis (FEA) study on a high-force-density linear switched reluctance motor. Analytical study by means of an electric circuit analog of the same motor was presented in a previous paper. For this refined analysis, two-dimensional (2-D) FEA is used along with a novel way of accounting for three-dimensional (3-D) effects. It is shown that, with minimal 3-D FE modeling, the 2-D FE model can be used to satisfactorily include the third-dimensional effects due to end turns and short stack length relative to the motor axial length. FEA results are presented and compared with measured results. Comparison with measured forces shows the effectiveness of the model.