Fast Modelling, Sizing and Mapping Techniques for Permanent Magnet and Externally Excited Axial Flux Machines

Axial flux machines (AFM) are a new trend within automotive powertrain development. Their special layout requires high demands in finite element method (FEM) simulation. Typically three dimensional (3D) models lead to high complexity as well as high simulation time. Paired with the innovative topology of externally excited axial flux machine (AFEEM), this problem intensifies with the additional control possibilities. Therefore, to ensure fast developement processes, different techniques are explored within this paper. For the simplification of the simulation a two (2D) and two and a half dimensional (2.5D) modelling approach are shown for both machine types. To get comparable designs and performances, sizing equations are derived. In addition, a fast mapping procedure is provided to also have access to the full speed range of the built electric machine. Finally, the resulting data is compared to 3D FEM results and the speed up of the total process is shown.