MAX - An expert system for automatic adaptive magnetics modeling

An expert system called MAX has been developed for the automatic solution of magnetic field problems. Using the finite element method, problem descriptions are entered and solved with minimal input from the user. MAX is based on a new procedure to compute the local error in finite element solutions and on a new procedure to subdivide the mesh. Solutions of problems involving highly permeable materials, complicated geometries, and large changes in scale, show that this system is capable of handling real-life problems in magnetic recording and in electric machine design.