High-Fidelity NVH Analysis Model Development Process for EV Traction Motors Based on Experimental Correlation

This study presents a high-fidelity NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) analysis model development process for EV traction motors. The proposed process consists of two main components: Path refinement through structural stiffness tuning, and Source refinement, focused on the motor’s excitation mechanisms. Model accuracy was validated through comparison of simulation results with dyno test data, with particular focus on the 24th-order electromagnetic vibration observed in an 8-pole, 48-slot motor. Path refinement was achieved through modal correlation between experimental results and finite element (FE) analysis. Nine modal test and simulation stages were conducted, ranging from individual components to the complete motor assembly. Mode shapes were compared using the Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC), and natural frequencies were matched within a 5% error margin by adjusting FE material properties. For the 24th-order electromagnetic vibration, simulation results agreed with test data within a 7% error margin for natural frequency. However, notable discrepancies remained in vibration amplitude. To resolve these discrepancies, Source refinement was performed. The initial excitation source was derived from idealized electromagnetic analysis, considering radial and tangential force as well as torque ripple. However, rotor eccentricity caused by mechanical assembly tolerances is commonly observed in actual motors. Therefore, the refined source accounted for rotor–stator eccentricity in the electromagnetic analysis. As a result, the NVH simulation incorporating the refined source matched the vibration amplitude within a 1% error margin compared to experimental results. The proposed NVH model development process enables more accurate vibration prediction in the early design phase of electric drive motors and is expected to significantly improve NVH performance in future electric drive systems.