A Parameterized Linear 3D Magnetic Equivalent Circuit for Analysis and Design of Radial Flux Magnetic Gears-Part I: Implementation

Magnetic gears can perform the same function as mechanical gears with the added benefits inherent to contactless power transfer. However, quick and accurate analysis tools are required for magnetic gears to reach their full potential. As end effects can significantly impact the slip torque of a magnetic gear, 2D models often overestimate the slip torques, so 3D models are frequently required. Therefore, this paper proposes a 3D linear Magnetic Equivalent Circuit (MEC) or reluctance network model of radial flux magnetic gears with surface mounted magnets. This is an extension of a previously developed 2D MEC model, and, like the previous 2D model, it is thoroughly parametrized so that it can be directly applied to a wide range of parametric cases. This is Part I of a two-part paper and focuses on the implementation of the 3D MEC model. Part II compares the 3D MEC model against nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) models to validate the MEC model's accuracy and to develop guidelines for discretizing the geometry.