Modeling ELECTRIC MOTORS

How to develop a traction drive using a multiphysics-based approach with 3D modeling and simulation.

From automotive and aerospace to heavy equipment, the design and development of electric motors have become an industry make-or-break issue. Not only are high performance, robustness, and efficiency at the top of the requirements list, the cost of manufacturing, materials and maintenance are also vital factors in the design and development process.

Development of a new design is more than just ensuring the motor's efficient electromagnetic performance. Linked closely to performance is the design of the cooling system, which requires coupled thermal simulations, and the motor drive system using power electronic simulators, as well as the mitigation of noise and vibration using structural analysis. Beyond these, additional factors such as the impact of drive cycles also need to be incorporated into design development.