Actuator Design Based on Flux Path Switching for High Energy Utilization

This paper presents the design of a new flux switching device that is capable of coupling with surface permanent magnet motors to become a new actuator featured with autolocking, increased safety, and higher energy utilization. These advantages are based on the concept of flux switching and the alternation of electric power with cogging torque. In this design, four additional axial winding coils are proposed to smoothing the switching process and provide bidirectional rotation. In addition, different manufacturing processes of the inner rotor are discussed with the aim of simplifying the fabrication process. The torque characteristics are investigated experimentally and analytically using a prototype and a finite-element analysis tool, respectively.