| Abstract |
Variable speed drives using electronically commutated PM synchronous machines are becoming
popular for such applications as machine tools spindle, hard disk drives, vehicle propulsion and pumps. In order to reduce the development costs, their design must increasingly rely on powerful simulation tools capable of accurateiy predicting the behaviour of the drive system (supply converter, control circuitry, motor and mechanical load). The finite element method has long been used to derive accurate lumped parameter models of the motor. Using these models the prediction and optimisation of the system behaviour is conducted with the help of a circuit
simulation software. New and powerful features, namely the coupling of circuit equations to the finite element problem and the integration of the rotor motion within the problem resolution have
opened new ways for finite element software to directly and accurately model the drive system dynamical behaviour. This paper will present these new features and an application to an
electronically commutated PM motor. |
