Accelerated Frequency-domain Field Simulations of Linear Induction Motors

Linear induction motors (LIMs) represent an elegant modern solution for future transportation, motion control, and linear automation systems. As opposed to their rotational counterparts, simulation based design and optimization of LIMs is still an open research subject due to their specific geometrical-and electromagnetic features. The time-domain FEM eddy current analysis is a widely used tool for analyzing LIMs capable of taking into account a dynamically moving rail and a coupling of the motor with its power supplying electric circuit. To replace the computationally intensive time-domain FEM analysis of LIMs the paper suggests a frequency-domain FEM analysis and a concept of an effective rail conductivity for taking into account the rail movement. The numerical results of the proposed method are compared against the classical time-domain approach and measurements and a high level of agreement has been found.