Model Refinements of Transformers via a Subproblem Finite Element Method

A progressive modeling of transformers is performed via a subproblem finite element method. A complete problem is split into subproblems with different adapted overlapping meshes. Model refinements are performed from ideal to real flux tubes, 1-D to 2-D to 3-D models, linear to nonlinear materials, perfect to real materials, single wire to volume conductor windings, and homogenized to fine models of cores and coils, with any coupling of these changes. The proposed unified procedure efficiently feeds each subproblem via interface conditions, which lightens mesh-to-mesh sources transfers, and quantifies the gain given by each refinement on both local fields and global quantities.