Transient analysis of an electromagnetic actuator using an overlapping finite element scheme

The authors describe the modeling of the transient dynamic behavior of a so lenoidal core type electromagnetic actuator using an overlapping finite ele ment (FE) scheme. The FE scheme allows tao topologically unconnected 2D fin ite element meshes to slide over and overlap each other, whilst still coupl ed together electromagnetically in a consistent manner. The result is that the same set of FE meshes can be used to model directly a continuously shri nking or expanding air gap. This paper demonstrates, for the first time, th at such a FE scheme can be used to model accurately the dynamic closing of the air gap of a linear actuator. The results of the simulation were compar ed with experimental measurements. It is shown that good agreement between simulated and measured results is obtained.