Synthesis of linear actuators

The synthesis of electro-mechanic actuators is formulated as a constrained optimization problem where some performance function of the device is to be met, subject to the satisfaction of some constraints about its dimensions and supply conditions. The optimization problem is tackled by means of a ge netic algorithm coupled to a multi-objective definition of the objective fu nction that merge together objectives and constraints in one single scalar objective function A fast magnetic analysis tool has been developed so that the computational cost of the genetic optimization run is acceptable. Some results about the synthesis of a tubular linear motor in two sizes are pre sented and discussed.