Finite element formulations in electrical engineering

Summary form only given. Traditional finite element programs have a strong foundation in heat transfer, structural mechanics, dynamics and transient type problems. However, more recently problems in electrical, electromechanical, and electrochemical analysis as described by Maxwell's equations are being solved using finite element formulations. This paper looks at the use of the finite element method for the study and optimization of electrical motors. Furthermore, typical FEM makes use of auto gridding routines that rely on triangular element formulations. This paper examines the influence of the triangular shape formulation and the auto gridding routines on the analysis of a switch reluctance motor.