Interfacing Techniques for Electromagnetic Field and Circuit Simulation Programs

Interfacing of disparate simulation programs is increasingly undertaken to gain a deeper understanding of their functionality and exploit their merits for modeling complex systems. In this paper, techniques for interfacing field and circuit equations of low-frequency electromagnetic apparatus are reviewed, analyzed, and classified into two main categories of direct and indirect methods according to the coupling method. Each category includes a vast array of techniques employing different methods for circuit modeling. The field analysis is restricted to 2-D finite-element method, which is a widely used numerical technique for modeling magnetic behavior of power apparatus. The main features and problems associated with each technique are summarized. Methods for coupling of mechanical equations are addressed in a separate section. A comprehensive list of references is also included at the end of this paper to provide further information to the readers.