Multi-Physics Simulation–Based Modeling for Vibration and Noise Reduction of a Spoke-Type BLDC Motor

  • Kim, Jongwook (changwon university)
  • Jung, Soonyoung (changwon university)
  • Yoon, Taeyoung (changwon university)

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A multi-physics simulation integrating electromagnetic and structural analyses is conducted to reduce vibration and noise generated during the operation of a spoke-type BLDC motor. The motor investigated in this study has a 12-slot, 10-pole configuration, with a rated speed of 800 rpm and a maximum operating speed of 860 rpm under load. Motor noise is classified into two categories: electromagnetic noise and structural noise. Most previous studies have focused on electromagnetic noise. However, studies on structural noise have not been actively conducted. Accordingly, this study aims to reduce cogging torque, which is a cause of electromagnetic noise, through electromagnetic analysis. Structural noise is analyzed by evaluating the motor’s response to electromagnetic excitation through forced vibration analysis. Cogging torque, which is a major cause of electromagnetic noise, is 9.9035 mNm in the original motor and is reduced to 2.6157 mNm in the optimized motor designed through stator geometry optimization, corresponding to a 73.22% reduction. The electromagnetic forces obtained from electromagnetic analysis are applied to the motor as excitation inputs through forced vibration analysis. The noise generated by this excitation is subsequently evaluated through acoustic analysis. An acoustic domain is constructed for acoustic analysis. The sound pressure level (SPL) obtained from the acoustic analysis is used to compare the noise characteristics of the original and optimized motors. Within the audible frequency range, the highest noise levels are observed at the resonance frequencies of 664 Hz, followed by 1880 Hz. These frequencies correspond to the resonance frequencies identified in the preceding analysis. Based on the previously obtained sound pressure levels, the equivalent sound level is calculated. The equivalent sound level of the original motor is 43.322 dB, while that of the optimized motor is reduced to 36.888 dB, corresponding to a reduction of 6.434 dB.