Scripting Approach for 3D FEM Analysis of PMSMs

A scripting approach is proposed for transient 3D Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs). The proposed approach speeds up the process of generating the motor 3D geometry and auto-mates all simulation and post-processing steps for a PMSM with arbitrary core geometry, number of slots, poles and phases. Coding is conducted in Octave software while Windows ActiveX control is employed to execute FEM simulations in ANSYS Max-well. The main benefits of the proposed approach are an orderly, consistent modeling and parameterization that enhance the efficiency of present computer tools in exploring existing designs and devising novel solutions. Key steps for setting up the motor 3D geometry, winding distribution, coil excitations, boundary conditions, mesh density and simulation parameters through Octave scripts are thoroughly explained on a practical PMSM example design.