3D support optimises power of electromagnetic design tool

According to Cobham, the new software is said to combine the extreme accuracy of finite element analysis (FEA) simulation with a design entry system that creates full 3d models of electric motors or generators within minutes. The software is an application specific toolbox of the Opera electromagnetic simulator, and is designed to enable users to achieve what Cobham calls 'radical new levels' of design productivity and performance. Cobham says the 3d Advanced Machines Environment provides a front end to the electromagnetic simulator that speeds design entry by means of 'fill in the blanks' dialogue boxes. Users select the form of motor or generator they want to design from a list of all common types and variants. By entering a list of parameters to define mechanical geometry, material properties and electrical data, the 3d models are then automatically created. According to Cobham, the complete design entry process can be performed in less than five minutes. The new 3d software allows developers to accurately model an entire machine, providing a comprehensive simulation that takes even marginal factors such as end winding effects and fringe effects into account. It comes with design templates for common rotating machinery including motor types such as ac induction, brushless, permanent magnet and switched reluctance, plus synchronous motors or generators. The 3d version also introduces support for the fast-growing axial flux electrical machine sector - which employs a geometry that cannot be represented in 2d. Users can additionally select numerous design variants for different machine types, such as a choice of rotor styles. "This application-specific 3d finite element tool provides a simple means of enhancing and speeding the design process, and is particularly relevant at a time when the market is demanding technological innovation," said Thomas Mueller of Thomatronik, Cobham Technical Services' agent in Germany and Austria.