Image processing method for the visualization and analysis of iron losses in electrical machines

This paper develops a simple, efficient and flexible image processing method to evaluate iron losses within electrical machines which is simple and rapid enough to be practical for routine design use. Images of magnetic field distribution, which are readily available from most finite element analysis packages, are pre-processed and collated only once for each machine. This data can then be interpolated rapidly at the point of use to obtain the spatial and temporal field distribution in the machine for any operating conditions, which can then be used for either qualitative or quantitative analysis of iron losses in that machine. The practical application of the technique is demonstrated for a flux switching motor running at approximately 15000 rpm, although it is applicable to a wide range of electrical machines-stationary, linear and rotating.