Multi-layer 2D Simulation for an Axial-flux PM Vernier Machine Performance Estimation

Abstract

This paper utilizes the multi-layer two-dimensional (2D) finite element method (FEM) simulation technique for the performance estimation in an axial-flux permanent magnet (AFPM) vernier machine design procedure. Generally, the axial-flux machine design and optimization are developed using three-dimensional (3D) FEM due to its tri-dimensional electromagnetic problem. While, the 3D FEM simulation requires a long computational time and a high quality of device. Thus, a multi-layer 2D FEM simulation with much less computational time and a relative good accuracy is attractive for the complex AFPM vernier machine design. Several cases of the multi-layer 2D FEM are compared against the results from 3D FEM to verify their adequate accuracy for the performance estimation of the AFPM vernier machine.