Structural Coupling

Structural Coupling in EMWORKS

Structural coupling is an advanced capability integrated into EMWORKS’ suite of electromagnetic simulation products. This feature enables seamless integration of electromagnetic and mechanical simulations, empowering engineers and researchers to analyze the complex interactions between electromagnetic fields and mechanical structures. By bridging the gap between electromagnetics and mechanics, structural coupling provides critical insights into how electromagnetic forces affect structural integrity and performance. This capability not only enhances design accuracy and reliability but also makes EMWORKS truly accessible by simplifying complex simulations for users across all experience levels.

Key Features of Structural Coupling with EMWORKS

Structural coupling in EMWorks products offers a wide array of key features and benefits, enhancing the capabilities of electromagnetic simulations. Here are some essential aspects:

Mechanical Stress Analysis:

Structural coupling enables the assessment of mechanical stress and deformation induced by electromagnetic forces. Engineers can predict how components and materials will respond to these forces, helping prevent structural failures and optimize designs for durability.

Thermal-Mechanical Analysis:

It allows for the examination of the combined effects of electromagnetic heating and mechanical loading. This is crucial for applications where temperature rise due to electromagnetic forces can influence material properties and structural integrity.
Multiphysics Simulations: Structural coupling facilitates multiphysics simulations, where electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical interact. This comprehensive analysis approach leads to more accurate predictions and better-informed design decisions.

Material Selection and Optimization:

By considering both electromagnetic and mechanical aspects, structural coupling helps in selecting the most suitable materials for applications and optimizing component geometries to meet performance and reliability requirements.

Applications and Devices for Structural Coupling

Structural coupling finds application in various industries and devices, enabling engineers to address complex electromechanical challenges. Some notable applications and devices include:

Electric Machines:

Analyzing the structural integrity and performance of electric motors and generators subjected to electromagnetic forces and thermal effects.

Transformers:

Optimizing transformer designs to withstand mechanical stresses, temperature fluctuations, and electromagnetic fields.

Solenoids:

Studying the mechanical response of solenoids during actuation and their impact on performance.

Electromagnetic Actuators:

Evaluating the structural behavior of electromagnetic actuators, such as linear and rotary solenoids, in response to dynamic forces.

MEMS Devices:

Investigating the interaction between electromagnetic fields and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for precise control and actuation.

Electric Vehicle Components:

Assessing the structural integrity of components in electric vehicles, such as batteries and charging connectors, under various electromagnetic conditions.

Aerospace Electronics:

Ensuring the reliability and safety of avionics and electronic systems in aerospace applications through comprehensive structural-electromagnetic analysis.

Renewable Energy Systems:

Studying the impact of electromagnetic forces on the structural components of wind turbines, solar panels, and wave energy converters.

Consumer Electronics:

Evaluating the structural robustness of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices subjected to electromagnetic radiation and mechanical stress.

Industrial Machinery:

Analyzing the mechanical response of electromagnetic components in industrial automation and manufacturing equipment.

Medical Imaging Equipment:

Ensuring the structural integrity and performance of medical imaging devices like MRI machines and CT scanners in the presence of strong electromagnetic fields.

High-Performance Computing (HPC) Systems:

Analyzing the impact of electromagnetic interference on the structural components of supercomputers and data centers to maintain uninterrupted operation.

Automotive Safety Systems:

Evaluating the mechanical response of airbag deployment systems and collision detection sensors in vehicles subjected to electromagnetic disturbances.

Electromagnetic Shielding Design:

Optimizing the structural design of electromagnetic shields and enclosures to protect sensitive equipment from external electromagnetic interference.

Robotics and Automation:

Studying the structural behavior of robotic arms and grippers in industrial automation, where electromagnetic forces may be present.

Military and Defense Electronics:

Ensuring the durability and performance of military-grade electronic systems and devices under extreme electromagnetic conditions.

Subsea Systems:

Analyzing the structural integrity of underwater sensors and communication equipment in marine environments, which may have varying electromagnetic conditions.

Nuclear Reactor Systems:

Assessing the impact of electromagnetic fields on structural components within nuclear reactors for safety and reliability.

Railway Systems:

Optimizing the structural design of railway signaling and control systems, considering both mechanical stress and electromagnetic interference.

Oil and Gas Exploration:

Studying the structural behavior of sensors and equipment used in oil and gas exploration in electromagnetic-rich environments.
 
Structural coupling in EMWorks products represents a significant advancement in the field of Multiphysics simulation. It empowers engineers to explore the intricate interplay between electromagnetic and mechanical phenomena, leading to more reliable and efficient designs across a broad spectrum of applications. As industries continue to push the boundaries of electromechanical innovation, structural coupling emerges as a pivotal tool for meeting the demands of the modern engineering landscape.
 

Results Structural Coupling with EMWORKS

After running a study with the structural solution option, the following structural quantities can be visualized:

Displacement

Ux : Displacement in x direction
Uy : Displacement in y direction
Uz : Displacement in z direction
Ur : The resultant displacement

Stress

Von Mises Stress
SXX : Normal stress in the X direction
SYY : Normal stress in the Y direction
SZZ : Normal stress in the Z direction
SXY : Shear stress in the Y in the YZ plane
SYZ : Shear stress in the Z in the XZ plane
SZX : Shear stress in the Z in the YZ plane
PS1 : First principal stress
PS2 : Second principal stress
PS3 : Third principal stress
Stress intensity (P1-P3)

Strain

Von Mises Strain
EXX : Normal strain in the X direction
EYY : Normal strain in the Y direction
EZZ : Normal strain in the Z direction
EXY : Shear strain  in the Y in the YZ plane
EYZ : Shear strain in the Z in the XZ plane
EZX : Shear strain in the Z in the YZ plane
PE1 : First principal strain
PE2 : Second principal strain
PE3 : Third principal strain
Tresca

Reaction Force

RFX : Reaction Force in the X direction
RFY : Reaction Force in the Y direction
RFZ : Reaction Force in the Z direction

3D Safety Factor

Von Mises Stress Failure Criterion
Maximum shear stress Failure Criterion
Maximum Normal Stress Failure Criterion
Mohr Coulomb Failure Criterion