Efficient Modeling Framework for the Synthesis of a Novel Magnet Array for Planar Motors

Abstract

This paper presents an efficient modeling framework to evaluate different novel magnet array architectures for a Dual Layer Planar Motor. The presented tool is semi-analytical: the flux densities are obtained analytically based on the Magnetic Charge Modeling method and the electromagnetic forces are derived numerically utilizing the Maxwell Stress Tensor. The proposed model improves the computation time compared to Finite Element Method with a maximum factor of 20 and is utilized to vary the configuration of the magnet array such that the secondary magnetization patterns of the quasi-Halbach array fully utilize the available space. Different configurations are analyzed in order to enhance the levitation and thrust-forces, while curtailing the magnet array bending.