The finite element analysis of the linear hybrid reluctance motor for the electromagnetic launch system

Abstract

The Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) is being developed utilizing electrical and electronic technologies. EMALS is emerging in order to replace the existing steam catapult on naval carriers. Recently, the double-sided linear launcher has drawn increasing attention of researchers. This paper presents the design and analysis of the Linear Hybrid Reluctance Motor (LHRM). This new motor is characterized by a stator, formed by a combination of independent magnetic structures. Each magnetic structure is composed of an electromagnet—the magnetic core with one or several coils wound around it and associated with a permanent magnet, disposed between their poles. The rotor has the same configuration of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) without any coil, magnets or squirrel cage. In order to improve the thrust of LHRM, the structural characteristics and magnetic field are analyzed. According to the initial design, the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is presented to obtain the magnetic cogging force and thrust force. Moreover, the effects of the parameters on the thrust and thrust ripple waveforms are analyzed using FEA.