Efficient multiphysics modelling of vibration and acoustic noise in switched reluctance motor drives

Acoustic noise has been reported as a major problem in Switched Reluctance Machines (SRMs) for noise sensitive applications. This issue has drawn significant attention over the past decades. In this paper, a numerical method used to predict vibration with high computational efficiency is introduced. The accuracy of this method is demonstrated by the comparison of the calculated results and the multiphysics Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulation. Finally, based on this method, a fast process for the optimal design of the stator frame is proposed to reduce the vibration and acoustic noise in SRMs.

I. Introduction

SWITCHED Reluctance Machines are characterized by their low cost, high fault tolerance and robust rotor structure. However, high levels of acoustic noise due to the vibration of the stator frame have been reported as a serious problem in noise sensitive applications, i.e. white goods. Over the past decades, various studies have been conducted to address the vibration and acoustic noise in SRMs. [1] suggests that the vibration and acoustic noise is mainly caused by the radial forces in SRMs; [2] and [3] demonstrate an active cancellation method to reduce the vibration in SR drives by introducing a two-step switching technique; [4] and [5] introduce the modal analysis of the stator frame in SRMs and the interaction between the excitation and natural frequencies of the mechanical system. These studies have introduced insightful findings related to the vibration and acoustic noise in SRMs.