A hybrid electromagnetic model for acoustic optimization of claw-pole alternators

The acoustic optimization of claw-pole alternators can be carried out with finite element simulations but suffers from long electromagnetic computation time (i.e. 3D transient simulations). On the other hand, analytical models cannot predict magnetic forces with accuracy in such machines. Therefore, a new hybrid model is proposed in order to achieve a better compromise between simulation time and accuracy. This model is based on a finite element model which takes saturation and tangential forces into account and an analytical model that computes the airgap flux density and its variation over time. Magnetic forces are then calculated and input into a vibro-acoustic model. Results show good agreement with the full finite element model which was validated experimentally.