Application of Neodymium-Iron-Boron permanent magnets on the assembling of a novel planar actuator

This paper depicts a new planar actuator, with novel structure and construction features. It includes a slotless stationary plane armature and a mover with two permanent magnets. By using NdFeB permanent magnets with high-energy product, it became possible to develop a planar motor with a novel topology. The planar actuator develops movement over a plane surface as a result of the interaction between the magnetic flux and current established through the orthogonal multiphase windings that comprehend the armature circuit. The actuator was analysed by means of the finite element method in order to compute the flux density distribution, the forces involved and improve its design. The results are presented in this paper.