This course focusses on computation of quasi-static electrical and magnetic fields of technical constructions. Examples are capacitors, write/read transducers for magnetic recording, periodic systems like patterned recording media, EM-fields shields, particular MEMS & NEMS devices, transistors, etc.
Analytical computational methods and FEM (Finite Element Method) will both take 50% of the time. Students will become familiar with the possibilitites and (dis)advantages of both methods of approach. They will learn interpreting the FEM results and will apply the analytical methods for validating the FEM results.
Some attention will be paid to the analogy of mathematical approach for different application fields suchlike electrical, magnetic, mechanical, diffusion and heat conduction.
EMstatics is positioned between the more or less superficial approach (like for instance in freeFEM++ or Comsol), and the extensive and mathematically profound treatments in the established courses for mathematics and mechanical-engineering students.

Attention will be paid to:

1. The fundamental mathematics of static EM-field problems.
2. The choice for an analytic method or a numerical (finite element) approach.
3. Analytical and numerical computation of one- two-, and three-dimensional electromagnetic fields. Finding the most useful method of approach.
4. Validation and interpretation of the computational results.
5. Recognising analogies for computation of fields in the electromagnetic domain on the one hand, and in analogical physical domains (mechanical, heat flow, fluid mechanics, ) on the other.

The course will be setup with 7 assigments which will lead to problem-based learning. These cases will be discussed with the instructors on an individual basis, or in small groups. The assessment will be based on the work on a final case..
Student will apply the commercial software package “Comsol multiphysics”, using a licence which is valid during the course.

Contents
EMstatics focuses on computations for quasi-static electromagnetic problems. Two approaches: 1. Analytic methods, including the application of integration methods and Fourier transforms. 2. Numerical methods, including Finite element methods (FEM).

Exam
Individual assignment (70 hours). Assignment project can be related to the master thesis project.

Foreknowledge
Necessary knowledge, for instance from former courses.
EE: Theory of Electromagnetic Fields (Elektromagnetische veldtheorie) 191211290
or
APH: Electromagnetics (Elektriciteit en Magnetisme) 191403051.

More information
Blackboard site: https://blackboard.utwente.nl/