11.1 Introduction

The primary function of electrical machines is to ensure energy conversion. Indeed, the required function of these machines is to transform electrical energy into mechanical energy, and conversely, to transform mechanical energy into electrical energy. It concerns both power generators and all motors and actuators. This transformation is carried out in two successive stages: for one, by transforming electrical energy (U,I) into magnetic energy (B,H); for another, by transforming this magnetic energy into mechanical energy. Even the static equipment (transformers, inductors, converters, cables, etc.), where by definition no part is in movement and no displacement is required, is subject to magneto-mechanical problems, that is, for example, the vibrations generated or the mechanical resistance in the event of a short circuit or an electric shock.

Efficient magneto-mechanical modeling is thus a key design challenge, though numerical modeling of coupled magneto-mechanical phenomena has only recently begun to be seriously addressed. This is due to the many specificities of this modeling. Indeed, the scope and diversity of the corresponding problems explain the slow pace of developments. In order to deal with this complex modeling, numerical models for electromagnetic fields are, of course necessary. They must be combined with numerical models for mechanical structures. Depending on the physical nature of the coupling, this can be performed in different ways. It can be performed using methods for calculating magnetic forces or methods taking into account the coupling between magnetic field and elastodynamic equations.

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The improvement of numerical models for magneto-mechanical phenomena answers...