Multiobjective Optimization of a Hollow Plunger Type Solenoid for High Speed On/Off Valve

This paper presents the modeling, optimization, and validation of a hollow plunger type solenoid for high speed On/Off valve. In the preliminary design, an accurate equivalent magnetic circuit model of the proposed solenoid is carried out, and the magnetic circuit is arranged in Kirchhoffs voltage law matrix form for the convenience of computer calculation. An iterative method is applied to obtain accurate permeability of the nonlinear magnetic material. To optimize the design parameters, a multiobjective optimization process is developed, and the multiobjective particle swarm optimization method is used to obtain the Pareto front of the desired objectives. An approved solution in Pareto front is selected by analytic hierarchy process and validated by the finite element analysis (FEA) method. A prototype based on the final optimized design is manufactured and tested. The experiment results verified the validation proposed design and optimization process.