A Coupled Multiphysics Framework for Advanced Characterization of PWM-Driven Induction Motors

The design of high-performance electrical machines necessitates the intricate integration of multiple physical domains, including electromagnetic, mechanical, and thermal aspects. To meet the ever-evolving demands of the field, there is a pressing need for a platform capable of simultaneously analyzing these interconnected phenomena with both precision and efficiency, all within a practical pre-manufacturing timeframe. This paper introduces a semi-analytical multiphysics assessment framework tailored for inverter-fed traction induction machines (IMs). By integrating three core physical domains, the framework leverages an electromagnetic model to evaluate rotor and stator currents, traction characteristics, and radial air-gap flux density. Vibroacoustic models are employed to predict noise and vibration induced by electromagnetic forces, while a three-dimensional (3D) nodal network thermal model captures transient temperature distributions across motor components. These highly efficient models are seamlessly integrated into a unified framework, allowing for a thorough and precise analysis of any IM in an efficient and timely manner. The framework is also designed for easy integration with optimization tools, enhancing its applicability for performance and design optimization. The developed scheme is examined on an enclosed IM prototype and is verified by comprehensive finite element analyses and experimental testing. The findings introduce a novel approach that integrates advanced computational tools with traditional design methods to assess the multiphysics performance of IMs across their entire performance spectrum. The developed method holds applicability across various applications with implications for other machine types.