Efficient design analysis of a novel magnetic gear on a high performance computer

Abstract

Purpose

Aims to show that efficiency and accuracy of integral equation methods (IEMs) in combination with the fast multipole method for the design of a novel magnetic gear.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel magnetic gear was developed. Magnetic fields and torque of the gear were simulated based on IEMs. The fast multipole method was applied to compress the matrix of the belonging linear system of equations. A computer cluster was used to achieve numerical results within an acceptable time. A three‐dimensional post‐processing and visualization of magnetic fields enables a deep understanding of the gear.

Findings

IEMs are very well suited for the numerical analysis of a magnetic gear. Especially, the treatment of the air gap between the rotating components, which move with significant varying velocities, is relatively easy. Furthermore, a correct computation and visualization of flux lines is possible. A magnetic gear is advantageous for high rotational velocities.

Research limitations/implications

A quasi static numerical simulation has sufficed for an understanding of the principle of the magnetic gear and for the development of a prototype.

Practical implications

IEMs are very suitable for the analysis of complex problems with moving parts. Nowadays, the efficiency is very good even for large problems, since matrix compression techniques are well‐engineered.

Originality/value

The design of a novel magnetic gear is discussed. Well‐known techniques like IEMs, fast multipole method and parallel computing are combined to solve a very large and complex problem.

Citation

Hafla, W., Buchau, A., Rucker, W.M., Weinläder, A. and Klotz, B. (2007), "Efficient design analysis of a novel magnetic gear on a high performance computer", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 26 No. 3, pp. 712-726. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321640710751172