Fast acting, long stroke, bistable solenoids with moving permanent magnets. I

A category of actuators is described that is capable of providing high initial accelerations and therefore fast motion, even when the airgap is large. The actuators are based on the concept of using the repulsion force that a stationary energized coil can exert on a moving permanent magnet. An experimental assessment of the performance capabilities of this type of actuator is presented. A mathematical model of their dynamics, suitable for design and optimization purposes, is also presented.<
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