Interactive Motor Design System Using 2-D Finite Element Analysis With Fast Mesh Modification Method

In this article, we propose an interactive visualization method for motor design. We have proposed a visualization system for education using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). As a further development of this, we are working on motor design as an industrial application. There are two issues in achieving high-speed interactivity. One is a fast mesh modification method in finite element analysis, and the other is a fast solving method. We propose a high-speed mesh modification method that utilizes regularly arranged grid points and coordinate transformation. In the proposed design system, the user can immediately observe the analysis result of the design change. Furthermore, if the proposed system is executed in cooperation with the projector, designers can change the design of the motor with their fingers and discuss it on the board. Furthermore, since this system can be executed on a Web browser, it can also be executed on a smartphone or tablet PC.

I. Introduction

Electric motors are beginning to be used in all kinds of equipment, such as electric vehicles and aircraft, in recent years [1]–[4]. Therefore, it is necessary to train motor engineers who can understand the principle of motors and design and maintain motors. When designing an electric motor, using computer simulation to calculate the characteristics of the motor has become a common approach. The motor simulation technology with finite element method (FEM) as the core numerical technique is steadily progressing toward larger scale and higher accuracy [1]–[4]. And those software have become a very useful tool for experienced engineers. In contrast, there have been no reports of software development that allows beginners to consider the operating principles of motors and to easily design motors.