A novel magnetostrictive linear motor and control system

Magnetic field induced strain materials are classically represented by giant magnetostrictive materials (GMM) such as Tb-Dy-Fe alloys offering magnetostrain of 0.1-0.2%, which has been developed in recent years. In this paper, based on the knowledge of the magnetostrictive generating mechanism and utilizing bionics theory, we have developed a novel magnetostrictive linear inchworm motor with double-sided three-phase stators using the peristaltic motion of a laminated Terfenol-D element. This element can migrate in the opposite direction of the traveling magnetic field generated by prevailing three-phase armature commutation, and does not require bearings or other components with friction, when the power is shutdown, it can self-brake and hold its position by squeeze preload and friction, gets to the purpose of precise position; The effective travel range and the load capability of the linear actuator is very large, compare to the traditional magnetostrictive actuator, it can be used in wide applications of high-force, large travel range, and precise positioning, which has widespread applying future.