Design and analysis of a novel miniature tubular linear actuator

Abstract

This paper investigates a novel miniature-size resonant moving-magnet linear actuator designs to be used in miniature linear compressor applications. The miniature linear actuator has a slotless stator and a tubular topology. It utilizes moving magnets in which the magnets are lined up in the Halbach array structure. Finite-element and analytical analyses of the actuator are performed to determine the flux density and thrust force. Experimental thrust force behavior at the resonant frequency is determined. It is shown that the finite-element method simulation, analytical, and experimental results agree with each other.