Magnetostrictive linear motor development

We are currently designing a high force linear motor that utilizes the inchworm principle coupled with multi-phase actuation. The efficient design of a 17 kN force linear motor that utilizes the magnetostrictive material Terfenol-D requires a transient electromechanical model to determine the operating parameters. The model is described and results indicated. It is found that control of the frequency and current inputs are all that is necessary to control the speed and power handling ability of the motor. Resonant operation is discussed along with increased efficiency power actuation schemes.