An analysis on electric and magnetic behaviour on an induction planar actuator

The induction planar actuator, i.e. IPA, proposed in this study presents 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 three-phase windings, mounted in an armature core, which are orthogonal to each other. When they are fed by three-phase AC excitations, a moving magnetic field takes place, and can travel along the x-axis and the y-axis direction simultaneously. The travelling magnetic field induces electrical currents in the secondary. The interaction between the moving magnetic field from the primary and the magnetic field originated by the induced current in the secondary produces a planar force. That explains the primary movement over the working area defined by the secondary. The 3D flux density distribution of the actuator suggests the employment of a grain-insulated soft magnetic composite to reduce eddy currents and losses on the core of the primary armature core. Magnetic flux density, induced current and planar traction forces are studied.