An improved analytical solution for predicting magnetic forces in permanent magnet motors

This paper describes an analytical model for analyzing magnetic forces developed in permanent magnet motors of radial field topology. The slotting effect is taken into consideration by solving the boundary value problem of the air gap field. The solution is expressed in the form of Fourier series with which the analysis of the harmonic contents in the magnetic forces can be readily performed. In particular, the curvature effect or the flux focusing effect in the slot opening regions is taken into consideration. The results of magnetic forces obtained from this model are verified with numerical simulations using the finite element method and experimental results. (C) 2008 American Institute of Physics.