Finite Element Analysis of a Permanent Magnet Brushed DC Motor Based on RMxprt/Maxwell 2D

This study presents a hybrid FEM-analytical methodology to analyze a permanent magnet-brushed DC (PMDC) motor. A test motor was selected as a trial example for powering a windshield wiper in an automobile, with specifications of 12 Volts, 50 Watts, and two poles. Reverse engineering was utilized by disassembling the motor and obtaining precise measurements of each component's dimensions. RMxprt and Maxwell 2D are both software tools and parts of the ANSYS Maxwell suite used for designing and analyzing electrical machines; however, they perform distinct functions. RMxprt focuses on initial design and parametric studies of electric machines, quickly assessing their impact on performance. At the same time, Maxwell 2D is suited for detailed electromagnetic field analysis, including fields, forces, mesh, flux, and more complex simulations, as well as motor performance analysis based on current, speed, and efficiency. They are used together to leverage their complementary strengths in the design and analysis workflow. The simulation results are compared with the experimental results, and the results were found to be convergent.