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Simulation of Actuator in Ansys Maxwell Software (Self-paced
Learning Available)

Course Overview

The Simulation of Actuator in Ansys Maxwell Software course consists of 3 parts.

The first part introduces the concepts of design methodology and simulation techniques to speed up the design of linear actuators and solenoids. It will guide you through best practices for static and transient parametric studies to optimize actuators, and it will show the benefits of the distributed parallel solutions. The effect of magnetic diffusion on the performance of actuators is also discussed. It consists of three lecture and five workshop videos with instructions and simulation files.

The second part teaches specific methods for actuator analysis, such as how to map side load forces based on eccentricity and air gap length, how to estimate remanent forces using the Vector Hysteresis Model, and how to compute forces at zero mechanical air gap. For fast-acting actuators, it also demonstrates how to account for magnetic diffusion in the simulations to correctly estimate time-delays in the development of flux and current, and therefore force.

The third part explains the process of integrating design in Ansys Maxwell software with Ansys optiSLang software to perform optimization analysis.

Prerequisites

  • Engineering level knowledge of magnetics and transformers
  • Experience with Ansys Maxwell such as the Maxwell Getting Started course

Teaching Method

Lectures and computer practical sessions to validate acquired knowledge. A training certificate is provided to all attendees who complete the course.

Learning Outcome

Following completion of this course, you will be able to:

  • Decide when to use static and transient solvers in Maxwell for actuator design.
  • Simulate static and dynamic actuator’s behaviour in term of forces, losses, tripping times, etc.
  • Perform the parametric analysis on various design parameters of an actuator.
  • Simulate the side loading effects as a function of eccentricity and airgap on the performance of an actuator.
  • Include the Magnetic diffusion in the simulation to predict the time delays in the actuator operation.
  • Perform multi goal optimization analysis by coupling Ansys Maxwell software and Ansys optiSLang software.

 Available Dates

Learning Options

Learning Options

Learning Options

Learning Options

Agenda

This is a 1 day classroom course covering both lectures and workshops. For virtual training, this course is covered over 3 x 2 hour sessions lectures and demonstration of selected workshop steps.

Virtual Classroom Session 1

  • Module 0: Actuators & Solenoids
  • Lecture 0: Actuator methodology, Static and Transient
    • Modeling magnetics with FEA
    • Translational Motion
    • Material Definitions
    • Losses in Maxwell
  • Workshop 0: Actuator Example – Start to Finish
    • Create Model
    • Set Up and Analyze Simulation
    • Static and Transient Calculation
  • Module 1: Effects of eddy currents
  • Lecture 1: Effects of Magnetic Field Diffusion

Virtual Classroom Session 2

  • Module 1: Effects of eddy currents (cont’d)
  • Workshop 1: Maxwell 2D Static and Transient Solution Techniques
    • Static Curves: Force vs Gap vs Current
    • Impact of modify the pole shape
    • Modification of geometry: Cup-cone form
    • Transient study
    • Transient study using Circuit
  • Module 2: Side Loading
  • Lecture 2: Side Loading Due to Armature Eccentricity
  • Workshop 2: Maxwell 3D Side Loading Force
    • Static eccentricity (Offset)
    • Axial Tilt

Virtual Classroom Session 3

  • Module 3: Remanence
  • Lecture 3: Remanent Flux
  • Workshop 3: Remanent Flux Using Vector Hysteresis
  • Module 4: Optimetrics & DX
  • Lecture 4: (no lecture for this section)
  • Workshop 4: Optimization Studies & Design Explorer (DX)
    • Force versus Stroke
    • Optimize pole shape using DX