Search Results (27)

In this study, a layered multi-objective optimization design method is proposed for a segmented skewed pole permanent magnet synchronous linear motor (PMSLM), considering thrust ripple suppression. Based on a 2-D analytical model, the effects of end force, cogging force, and winding asymmetry force on thrust ripple in PMSLM are analyzed, and the correctness is verified using finite element analysis and experiments. On this basis, a layered multi-objective optimization method is proposed. The whole optimization is divided into three layers. Metamodels of optimal prognosis are established to optimize the structural parameters in a layered manner, achieving a compromise between reducing thrust ripple and increasing average thrust. The effectiveness of the layered multi-objective optimization method is verified through simulation and prototype experiments. The layered structure aims to improve efficiency while ensuring computational accuracy. Full article

This study presents the design, optimization, and experimental validation of a large-air-gap voice coil motor (LAG-VCM) for high-precision magnetic levitation vibration isolation in vacuum environments. Key challenges arising from a large air gap, including pronounced leakage flux and a reduced flux density, were addressed by employing the equivalent magnetic charge method and the image method for the modeling of permanent magnets. Finite element analysis was applied to refine the motor geometry and obtain high thrust, low ripple, and strong linearity. To mitigate the severe thermal conditions of a vacuum, a heat pipe-based cooling strategy was introduced to efficiently dissipate heat from the coil windings. The experimental results demonstrate that the optimized LAG-VCM delivers a thrust of 277 N with low ripple while effectively maintaining coil temperatures below critical limits for prolonged operation. These findings confirm the suitability of the proposed LAG-VCM for vacuum applications with stringent requirements for both a large travel range and stable, high-force output. Full article

Conventional active vehicle height control systems predominantly employ hydraulic or pneumatic suspension mechanisms. Although these established approaches have achieved widespread adoption in automotive applications, they remain fundamentally constrained by three critical drawbacks: (1) inadequate dynamic response characteristics, (2) high energy consumption, and (3) inherent mechanical complexity. The ongoing electrification revolution in vehicle technologies has spurred significant research interest in linear electromagnetic suspension systems. Nevertheless, their practical implementation encounters dual technical barriers: (a) complex multi-phase motor configurations requiring precise coordination, and (b) substantial thrust ripple generation under dynamic operating conditions. To address these critical limitations, our research proposes a novel motor structure, known as the flat rectangular slot structure, which offers advantages such as simple installation and high thrust with low current. Additionally, we have designed a double-vector control strategy for the motor control section, which modifies the finite-set model predictive control and enhances the accuracy of the model’s calculations. By integrating the vehicle model, we have developed a multi-layer hierarchical control strategy for the vehicle height controller. In the first layer, a PI controller is used to convert the target height into current, which is then input into the value function. In the second layer, we improve the control strategy for the linear motor by optimizing the finite-set model predictive control through the double-vector control. Through multi-step predictive calculations, we determine the optimal sector, enabling the motor to receive the corresponding control force. In the third layer, the motor thrust is input into the vehicle model to achieve closed-loop control of the vehicle body. Finally, we conduct simulation verification of the proposed control strategy. The simulation results indicate that the double-vector control significantly reduces the fluctuation in the sprung mass displacement by approximately 70% compared to single-vector control, the response speed is increased by approximately 20%, and the thrust required to achieve the target vehicle height is reduced by 5.7%. Therefore, the proposed double-vector control strategy can significantly enhance the stability of the automotive electronic control suspension, opening up new research avenues for the study of suspension stability control and energy saving in vehicles. Full article

Nowadays, Permanent Magnet Synchronous Linear Motors (PMLSMs) are widely applied as direct drive mechanisms in the industrial manufacturing sector, which can fulfill the requirements for high precision and high production rates. However, PMLSMs are characterized by significant thrust ripple issues, including cogging force, ripple force, and end force, which severely deteriorate the operational accuracy. This paper provides a review of analysis and suppression of the thrust ripple characteristics in PMLSM, aiming to offer guidance on how to mitigate the thrust ripples, and hence, enhancing the operational accuracy of PMLSM system. Firstly, the structural features and operating principles of PMLSMs are analyzed to understand the causes of thrust ripples. Then, strategies for mitigating the PMLSM thrust ripples are elaborated upon, respectively, from two main perspectives: structural optimization and control strategies. Finally, a summary and outlook are presented. Full article

There is an increasing interest in achieving global climate change mitigation targets that target environmental protection. Therefore, electric vehicles (as linear metros) were developed to avoid greenhouse gas emissions, which negatively impact the climate. Hence, this paper proposes a finite set-model predictive-based current control (FS-MPCC) strategy of linear induction motor (LIM) for linear metro drives fed by solar cells with a beta maximum power extraction (B-MPE) control approach to achieve lower thrust ripples and eliminate a selection of weighting factors, the main limitation of conventional model predictive-based thrust control (which can be time consuming and challenging). The B-MPE control approach ensures that the solar cells operate at their maximum power output, maximizing the energy harvested from the sun. Considering a single cost function of primary current errors between the predicted values and their references in αβ-axes, the proposed method eliminates the need for weighting factor selection, thus simplifying the control process. A comparison between the conventional and the presented control method is conducted using MATLAB/Simulink under different scenarios. Comprehensive simulation results of the presented system on a 3 kW LIM prototype revealed that the introduced system based on FS-MPCC surpasses the conventional technique, resulting in a maximum power extraction from solar cells and a suppression of the thrust ripples as well as an avoidance of weighting factor tuning, leading to fewer computational steps. Full article

This paper presents an innovative solution that is able to suppress the thrust ripple in a high-power asynchronous linear induction motor (LIM) used in a microgravity experiment facility electromagnetic launch (MEFEL) system. By addressing the crucial need for low levels of thrust ripple in MEFEL applications, we propose a dynamic model-based adaptive controller (MAC) and an enhanced quasi-proportional-resonant (PR) controller. The MAC is designed to compensate for the inherent impedance asymmetry of the linear motor. The PR controller minimizes thrust ripple by eliminating harmonics within the current loop. A comparative analysis indicates that both MAC and PR control are effective in reducing harmonics, suppressing the thrust ripple, and maintaining system stability. Computer simulations show a noteworthy 75% reduction in the thrust ripple and a decrease in the negative current. Partial tests on the MEFEL device validate the practical efficacy of the proposed control methods, emphasizing the method’s ability to enhance the quality of microgravity in real-world scenarios significantly. Full article

In this paper, two H-type flux switching permanent magnet linear generators with outer-translator and inner-translator configurations are discussed and compared to a more conventional flux switching topology. The stators consist of H-Type modules housing circumferential coils and are surrounded by two annular permanent magnets. In conventional flux switching machines, the windings are orientated perpendicular to the direction of motion and the conductors twist around the magnets. In H-type topologies, the orientation of the windings is in the same plain as the magnets and parallel to the direction of motion, resulting in an increase in flux linkage. The proposed topologies are designed for a low operating speed and a large magnetic gap, as found in wave energy converters. All topologies are optimized using the Taguchi optimization approach with the goals of reducing force ripple and increasing the average thrust force and efficiency. The 2D finite element method (FEM) is used in the optimization stage to calculate the optimized parameters of the presented generators, after which the optimized structures are simulated using 3D FEM, and the results are extracted. The results of the optimization show that the H-type topologies deliver a 20% higher shear stress whilst offering an easier to assemble structure. Full article

Our research focuses on the reconstruction of turbidity paleocurrents of the Cilento Group in the Cilento area (southern Apennines, Italy). These deposits were formed in the wedge-top basin above the oceanic Ligurian Accretionary Complex, the early orogenic wedge of the southern Apennines. The Cilento Group succession, whose age ranges between the uppermost Burdigalian and lowermost Tortonian, consists of a thick pile of sandstones, conglomerates, marls and pelites grouped in two formations (Pollica and San Mauro Fms). We retrieved information on the turbidity current directions through sedimentary features such as flute and groove casts, flame structures and ripple marks. The aim of this study is to shed light on the early tectonic evolution of the southern Apennines by reconstructing the geometry of this basin, the source areas that fed it and the paleogeography of the central Mediterranean area in the Miocene. We analyzed 74 sites in both formations and collected 338 measurements of paleocurrent indicators. Because the succession was affected by severe thrusting and folding, every paleocurrent measurement was restored, reinstating the bedding in the horizontal attitude. Results indicate a complex pattern of turbidity current flow directions consistent with a basin model fed by a spectrum of sources, including recycled clasts from the Ligurian Accretionary Complex, Calabria–Peloritani Terrane and the Apennine Platform units and volcaniclastics from the synorogenic volcanoes located in the Sardinia block. Full article

This paper presents a model predictive thrust force control (MPTFC) method for a multiple-modular permanent magnet synchronous linear motor (PMSLM). It focuses on the thrust assignment and thrust ripple of the motor drive system with a multiple-branch inverter. A discrete time model of the PMSLM is established, and the driving system structure and operation principle of the motor are studied. A multi-mode cost function is designed according to the requirements of the different load conditions, and the optimal voltage vector action time is determined. The operation mode is analyzed to determine the distribution factor, so as to reduce the thrust pulsation during operation and improve the performance of the drive system. The results indicate that the proposed MPTFC method is effective in different operating modes, and the drive system has high efficiency and safer performance compared to a conventional drive system. Full article

Over the past few decades, flux-switching permanent magnet (FSPM) machines have gained more attention. A novel flux-switching permanent magnet linear machine with a partitioned stator (FSPMLM-PS), which has the advantages of high thrust force density and high cost efficiency for short-stroke applications, is presented and analyzed in this article. Firstly, the twelve mover slots and seven stator poles (12s/7p) structure of FSPMLM-PS is introduced, and the fundamental principle of operation is investigated. The partitioned stator helps with the reduction in iron losses and the overall cost of the proposed FSPMLM-PS. One of the frequent issues in linear machines is the end effect, which is compensated for by setting assistant teeth at both ends of the mover. The proposed machine’s main design specifications are globally optimized through a multiobjective genetic optimization algorithm using JMAG software ver. 16.1, although the volumes of the PM and the magnetic and electric loadings are kept the same. The peak-to-peak flux linkage, thrust force, thrust ripples, and detent force are improved by 26.98%, 27.98%, 22.03%, and 68.33%, respectively, after optimization. The comparison results show that the proposed FSPMLM-PS is preferable to the conventional FSPMLM given in the literature. Under the same PM volume, the proposed machine provides 27.95% higher thrust force density. Full article

Thrust ripple and density greatly impact the performance of the linear machine and other linear actuators, causing positioning control precision, dynamic performance, and efficiency issues. Generalized pole-pair combinations are difficult to satisfy both the thrust and ripple for double salient reluctance linear machines. In this paper, a DC-Biased vernier reluctance linear machine (DCB-VRLM) is proposed to solve the abovementioned issues. The key to the proposed design is to reduce the ripple and enhance the thrust density with non-uniform teeth by utilizing and optimizing the modulated flux in the air gap. To effectively verify the proposed design, the DCB-VRLMs with different winding pole pairs and secondary poles are compared. The 12-slot/10-pole combination is chosen to adopt a non-uniform air gap structure. Moreover, the energy distribution of AC/DC winding is studied and optimized to further enhance the performance of the proposed DCB-VRLM. The results indicate that the DCB-VRLM with the non-uniform air gap has a lower thrust ripple, better overload capability, and higher thrust density, which confirms its superiority in long-stroke linear rail transit and vertical elevator applications. Full article

Permanent-magnet (PM) width-modulation array is designed to solve the issues resulting from big pole-pitches of PMLSMs in high-speed and high-precision systems. PM width-modulation array provided in this paper is a kind of segmented magnetic-pole structure, featuring low PM eddy currents and low thrust ripples. First, the magnetomotive force (MMF) excited by the PM width-modulation array is analyzed to prove its feasibility, the PM eddy current of the novel array is studied to show its advantage in high-speed applications, and the electromagnetic models of two PM width-modulation arrays are established, which are designed by the equal area method and the triangular modulation method, respectively. Then, the thrust features and the PM usage amounts of the two PM width-modulation arrays are analyzed by the finite element method (FEM) and the performance comparisons are presented. The prototype is manufactured and tested to verify the analytical results. The experimental data agree well with the simulations and analyses. Full article

The end force of North-South permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (NS-PMLSM) fluctuates symmetrically with a period of one pole. Different from it, the end force’s fluctuation cycle of the consequent-pole permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (CP-PMLSM) is usually two poles and asymmetrical. Especially, within two half cycles, the end force presents complex asymmetric characteristics. In this paper, a piecewise function model of the end force of CP-PMLSM is established. Then a primary segmented design method for adjusting the period, symmetry and phase of the end force waveform is proposed. The two-segment and grouped four-segment modular distances are combined and matched to eliminate the odd-numbered harmonics of the end force and suppress the thrust ripple. A slotless primary core experimental platform and a slotted CP-PMLSM prototype are manufactured and tested to verify the theoretical analysis and simulation results. Full article

The aim of this paper is to present the optimal design process and an optimized model for a discontinuous armature arrangement permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (PMLSM). The stator tooth shapes are optimized to reduce detent force. When the shape of the stator is changed to reduce the detent force, the saturation magnetic flux density and the back electromotive force characteristics change. Multi-objective optimization is used to search for the local lowest point that can improve the detent force, saturation magnetic flux density, and back EMF characteristics. To reduce the detent force generated at the outlet edge, a trapezoidal auxiliary tooth was installed and the performance was analyzed. The experiment’s response surface methodology is used as an optimization method and all the experimental samples are obtained from finite-element analysis. The validity of this method is verified by comparing the optimized FEA model to the initial FEA model. Full article

Linear Flux Switching Machines (LFSMs) possess the capability to generate adhesive thrust force, thus problems associated with conventional rotatory electric machines and mechanical conversion assemblies can be eliminated. Additionally, the unique features of high force/power density, efficiency, and a robust secondary structure make LFSMs a suitable candidate for linear motion applications. However, deficiency of controllable air-gap flux, risk of PM demagnetization, and increasing cost of rare earth PM materials in case of PMLFSMs, and inherent low thrust force capability of Field Excited LFSMs compels researchers to investigate new hybrid topologies. In this paper, a novel Double-Sided Hybrid Excited LFSM (DSHELFSM) with all three excitation sources, i.e., PMs, DC, and AC windings confined to short moving primary and segmented secondary providing short flux paths is designed, investigated, and optimized. Secondly, unequal primary tooth width optimization and additional end-teeth at all four corners of the primary equip proposed design with balanced magnetic circuit and reduced end-effect and thrust force ripples. Thirdly, the measured experimental results of the manufactured proposed machine prototype are compared with corresponding simulated model results and shows good agreements, thus validating the theoretical study. Full article