A 3D nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit model for an axial field flux focusing magnetic gear: Comparison of fixed-point and Newton–Raphson methods

Abstract

An axial field flux focusing magnetic gear is being modeled in this study utilizing a 3D magnetic equivalent circuit technique that takes into consideration the magnetic saturation of the soft magnetic material. Considering magnetic saturation is a critical feature in modeling magnetic gears, particularly those with flux focusing arrangements where specific regions become highly saturated. However, nonlinear modeling comes with its costs, like increased computation time and resource allocation, so it has always been a hot topic for research and development. The implementation of two nonlinear iterative solvers for the solution of the nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit was described and a comparison between the two methods was done. The approach presented was chosen to be a good lightweight alternative for 3D finite element method modeling that can be used for early design stages. It provided acceptable nonlinear predictions while requiring less time than a 3D finite element method model and saving memory and resources.