Abstract
A new variable flux-path unit is developed for flux-path control magnetic suspension with multiple magnetic sources. The authors have proposed the variable flux-path magnetic suspension system as a unique magnetic suspension system using permanent magnet. This system has ferromagnetic plates between a permanent magnet and a floator. The flux from the permanent magnet to the floator, and the attractive force acting on the floator can be adjusted by the motion control of the control plates. Stable suspension and 2-DOF control with a single magnetic source was achieved. However, the horizontal control force was much less than the vertical control force. In this paper, flux-path control magnetic suspension with multiple magnetic sources is proposed. An experimental apparatus with a variable flux-path unit is developed for realizing multiple-magnetic-source systems. Basic characteristics of the apparatus are measured. Stable levitation is achieved by applying PD and PID controls. In addition, stable levitation with zero-power control is also achieved.
