Toward a global approach dedicated to electromagnetic compatibility and energy efficiency

The local laws of electromagnetism are derived from the optimization of the global mechanical power exchanged throughout the electrical network. Two kinds of devices are identified: (i) those dedicated to power conversion; and their (ii) couplings involved in transmission lines, distribution busways, cablings and connections. While the finite element method appears to be the natural design tool in the former, the so-called PEEC method is the more suitable in the latter. Its recent improvements are reviewed within the low-frequency framework including (i) back emf of ferromagnetic materials (shielding); (ii) optimization methods to reduce Joule losses or flux density levels; and (iii) integration into a CAE package