Optimization of a permanent magnet needle actuator

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to solve the optimization problem for a permanent magnet linear actuator with moving magnet for driving a needle in a knitting machine. The optimization is carried out with respect to the maximal average force along the stroke.

Design/methodology/approach

The optimization factors are the dimensions of the permanent magnet and the pole length. For obtaining the objective function for each parameter combination, the static force‐stroke characteristic is computed. Three‐dimensional finite element analysis is employed for obtaining the electromagnetic force. The objective function is then approximated by secondary models on the basis of design of experiment. The optimization is carried out using sequential linear programming.

Findings

Optimal solution to the problem has been obtained and the force‐stroke characteristic of the optimal actuator is given.

Originality/value

The proposed approach employs sequential linear programming with move limits using trust region concept, 3D finite element analysis, design of experiments and secondary models for optimization of a permanent magnet linear actuator for individual needle driving in a knitting machine.

Citation

Yatchev, I., Rudnicki, M., Hinov, K. and Gueorgiev, V. (2012), "Optimization of a permanent magnet needle actuator", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 31 No. 3, pp. 1018-1028. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321641211209889