High performance magnetostrictive actuators

Author

Bushko, Dariusz A. ; Goldie, James H.

Author_Institution

SatCon Technol. Corp., Cambridge, MA, USA

Volume

6

Issue

11

fYear

1991

Firstpage

21

Lastpage

25

Abstract

The application of magnetostriction in the design of a hybrid, electromechanical/hydraulic high-performance linear (large force and stroke) and/or rotational (large moment and angle) actuator is considered. The design concept combines the high power density of actuation possible with magnetostriction (approaching 0.1 HP/cm/sup 3/ of the magnetostrictive material assuming 3 kHz excitation frequency) and the design flexibility of hydraulics. The objective of the research described was to validate the concept theoretically and to study alternatives and improvements. The system, as currently envisioned, offers very small packaging volume (approximately an order of magnitude smaller than conventional electromechanical systems), flexible packaging (relative location of the major system components is not critical), and easy control (precise control of actuation speed, quick reverse time, and inherent position lockup). The major technical problems associated with the design are outlined, and results of a computer simulation of a prototype actuator are presented.<>

Keywords

actuators; digital simulation; electrohydraulic control equipment; magnetostrictive devices; 3 kHz; actuation speed; computer simulation; control; design flexibility; electromechanical hydraulic actuator; energy balance; excitation frequency; flexible packaging; hybrid actuator; linear actuator; magnetostrictive actuators; position lockup; prototype; reverse time; rotational actuator; Control systems; Fluid flow control; Force control; Hydraulic actuators; Magnetic field induced strain; Magnetic materials; Magnetostriction; Pressure control; Pumps; Soft magnetic materials;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine, IEEE

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

0885-8985

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/62.103783

Filename

103783