Design Optimization of a Magnetic Actuator Incorporating the Concept of the Hybrid Analysis Method

Abstract

This paper proposes a new design optimization method for a magnetic actuator based on a hybrid analysis method. The equivalent circuit method and the finite analysis method are combined to create a design method that is both accurate and efficient. The driving performance of the magnetic actuator is predicted through the use of simple circuit parameters, and the specific flux distribution required to obtain a detailed design is calculated only in the design domain, where finite elements are located. The magnetic potential, obtained from lumped circuit parameters, is used to set the boundary conditions of the design domain and for calculating the topological design sensitivity. Since the objective function and design constraints are defined using circuit parameters and the topological variable in the hybrid analysis model, the optimization problem is separated into two phases, to deal with two types of field variable. A simple design example of a solenoid-type actuator is provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.