On the influence of the pole and teeth shapes on the performance of linear switched reluctance actuator

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the evaluation of the influence of pole and teeth shapes on the behaviour of a linear switched reluctance actuator (LSRA). The study was carried out through the application of a finite element static analysis and the application of a new method for dynamic analysis. Those studies are thereafter evaluated with experimentations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper characterizes the performance of an LSRA for different polar geometries. A finite element tool is used at an early research stage. Results are then used to build a dynamic numerical model. Obtained data allow the construction of a laboratory prototype.

Findings

Polar shape has great influence in actuator behaviour. Different geometrical polar configurations are evaluated and their influence is observed. The obtained data allow attraction force minimization with minimal penalty in the thrust force. A numerical dynamic model is used to evaluate actuator movement with different polar shapes, without taking into consideration the influence of magnetic losses.

Practical implications

This paper allows the knowledge of each pole shape configuration to be adopted according to the actuator application and desired performance.

Originality/value

This paper presents the effect of the different pole shapes on the behaviour of static and dynamic characteristics of the LSRA. It is shown that the use of non‐traditionally pole shapes, round or wedge, leads to a small penalty in thrust force and a considerable attraction force minimization. The benefit in actuator effects concerning mechanical structure and performance is evident.

Citation

Espírito‐Santo, A.E., Calado, M.R.A. and Cabrita, C.M.P. (2011), "On the influence of the pole and teeth shapes on the performance of linear switched reluctance actuator", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 30 No. 2, pp. 412-430. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321641111101005