Modeling electro-mechanical actuators

An electro-magnetic relay model is setup using a generalized Kirchhoff-network approach. The model features several mechanical nonlinear elements (stops), a nonlinear model for magnetization based on the Jiles-Atherton model and a nonlinear model for the non homogeneous magnetization of the anchor at the air gap. The model is tested using different voltage signals applied to the coil of the magnet system with varying positions of the mechanical stops. The simulation results are compared to data measured on a specially prepared relay, which allows to adjust the positions of the mechanical stops as well. The simulated and measured data agree well, which enables indirect determination of mechanical parameters through electric measurements.