Induced currents and planar force in an induction planar actuator

The induction planar actuator (IPA) in study is an electromagnetic structure formed by a static ferromagnetic core with an aluminium plate that corresponds to the secondary, and a mover, also called primary; the latter comprehends two sets of three-phase windings that are orthogonal to each other. When they are fed by a three-phase ac excitation, a moving magnetic field is established; it can travel along the x-axis and the y-axis direction. The travelling magnetic field induces currents in the secondary; the interaction between those induced currents and travelling magnetic field produces a planar traction force responsible for the movement of the mover over the working area of the actuator. Induced currents and planar traction forces are studied by means of a finite element model, and experimental results are produced.