Optimized design of a four discrete positions electromagnetic actuator

A four discrete positions electromagnetic actuator was designed, manufactured and tested. The design was optimized in performances and size. This actuator is composed of a mobile permanent magnet, four fixed permanent magnets and two orthogonal wires. Each wire is used to switch independently in two orthogonal directions. The displacement of the mobile magnet is limited by two stops in each direction. The mobile part can then reach four discrete positions. The fixed permanent magnets ensure a holding of each discrete position. This paper presents the principle, the optimized design, the modelling, an experimental device and experimental results of this actuator.