Novel high-response electromagnetic actuator for electronic engraving system

We describe a new moving-iron electromagnetic actuator that utilizes cantilever-beam-type springs, /spl pi/ type armature, full-bridge magnetic circuits, and a single driving coil. The actuator is suitable for electromechanical converters with high response and minor displacement for use in electronic engraving systems. We analyzed its static and dynamic characteristics by using a three-dimensional finite-element method. We used a simple and practical measuring method based on light reflection to detect the actuator's real hysteresis loop and amplitude frequency response characteristics. The results show that the actuator has a displacement of /spl plusmn/65 /spl mu/m, hysteresis of less than 5.5%, and amplitude cutoff frequency of 3.1 kHz. We tested the actuator on a real engraving system and confirmed its characteristics by the engraving results.