Field-Circuit Hybrid Method for Magnetic Actuator Using a Laminate Composite

The magnetic actuator using a laminate composite of piezoelectric (PZT) and magnetostrictive materials (MM) achieves active control of magnetic force without Joule heat loss. To study its characteristics, the field-circuit hybrid method is proposed based on the equivalent magnetic circuit and the finite element analysis (FEA) of piezoelectric and magnetic fields. The strain of laminate composite under different voltage is obtained through the piezoelectric FEA. On the basis of magnetostrictive equation, the MM branch in the magnetic circuit of the actuator is transformed equivalently, the work point of the actuator is determined, and the corresponding FEA model of magnetic analysis is then set up. The relationships between magnetic force, gap, and voltage are discussed by the hybrid method, which can be expanded into the design and analysis of the magnetostrictive actuator and sensor to improve simulation efficiency and precision.