Coupled finite-element/boundary-element analysis of a reciprocating self-excited induction Generator in a harmonic domain

This paper suggests a general method for analysis of a reciprocating self-excited induction generator based on the coupled finite-element/boundary-element method in a harmonic domain. The finite-element method is used for iron and copper parts in order to deal with nonlinearity and eddy currents, while the boundary-element method is utilized for the air-gap region between the moving parts using a free-space Green function that facilitates the application of a linear time periodic movement. The proposed method leads to a static global matrix that is symmetrical for particular boundary conditions. The results agree well with those obtained by the time-stepping methods.