On the usage and potential applications of The finite element method magnetics (femm) Package in the teaching of electromagnetics In higher education

Abstract

Finite Element Method Magnetics (FEMM) is an open source finite element analysis software package for solving 2D planar and 3D axisymmetric low frequency electromagnetic problems including both electrostatics and magnetostatics. The program addresses linear and nonlinear harmonic magnetic and magnetostatic problems and linear electrostatic problems. It is a simple, accurate, and low computational cost freeware product, popular in science and engineering. Several applications in areas such as electromagnetics, materials science, industry, medicine, experimental and particle physics, robotics, astronomy and space engineering can be found. However its educational value has been underestimated. Use of the package in education is quite rare. The aim of this paper is to explore the capability of FEMM to meet as a complementary tool the needs of teaching electromagnetics in higher education. In order to demonstrate its use and exhibit the aid it offers in the teaching of electromagnetics illustrative examples are given. To evaluate its effect in the learning process a study with three groups of students has taken place. The students of the first group have not used the software; second group students have practiced in the computers lab while the rest have installed it in their home computers and pursued short independent projects. Study of the statistics of the students’ grades distribution is made. Performance of the third group students is significantly better, showing that the free distribution of FEMM is one of its major advantages. A questionnaire about the use of educational software has been also given in the students in the start of the course and after the examinations. Interesting conclusions have been derived and presented here.