Date of Award
December 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Advisor
Djedje-Kossu Zahui
Abstract
Even though there are more efficient alternatives, direct current (DC) brush motors are widely used in industry due to their simplicity, reliability, and controllability. One aspect of these motors that drives the inefficiency is armature reaction. Armature reaction refers to the distortion of the magnetic field caused by the armatures magnetic field. This phenomenon contributes to significant efficiency losses during operation of the motor.This thesis investigates a novel design that mechanically corrects for the effects of armature reaction on the efficiency of DC brush motors. The research conducted includes analytical modeling, finite element analysis (FEA), and experimental testing to determine the impact that the novel design has affecting the efficiency loss of the motor due to armature reaction. The theoretical work is developed from fundamental electromagnetic equations governing DC motors. Simulated magnetic fields and empirical data are then compared to evaluate the models and identify any potential room for improvement on the design of the dynamic mechanical commutation correction device. Results indicate that as load current increases the system is capable of automatically offsetting the brush lead angle to minimize the effects of the magnetic field distortion. This causes measurable increases in generated torque and efficiency for a dynamic range of load settings. This not only increases the efficiency of the motor but also decreases the wear on components such as the motor brushes due to the reduction in bEMF causing arcing between the commutator and the brushes.
Recommended Citation
Nikrin, Peter, "Dynamic Mechanical Motor Commutation Correction" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 8238.
https://commons.und.edu/theses/8238