3D finite element modeling of a permanent magnet linear actuator

The magnetostatic field and electromagnetic force of a linear actuator with a fixed permanent magnet and soft magnetic mover was studied using the 3D finite element method. The actuator construction is such that its field can be modeled adequately only using 3D analysis. Results were obtained for the magnetic flux density distribution and the electromagnetic force for different positions of the mover for two values of the coil magnetomotive force and two types of permanent magnets