The contribution of the finite-element method to the design of electrical machines: An industrial viewpoint

The priorities in an industrial organisation differ somewhat from those in academic institutions. This paper describes finite-element electromagnetic and electric field programs developed by an industrial research laboratory for use by engineering departments, and outlines experience obtained. Typical applications 2-dimensional, quasi-3-dimensional, and 3-dimensional programs, including somewith iron non-linearity and eddy currents, are described. Data generation, post-processing and the economics of computation are discussed. The paper concludes with a brief look at future developments.