Abstract
This paper introduces the initial design and FEM analysis of a non-contact energy transfer method for magnetically levitated linear slider platform. The non-contact energy transfer method utilizes an open-end generator and a long rotating permanent magnet array driven by a synchronous ac electric motor. The proposed non-contact energy transfer method is simple to construct and to isolate and requires minimum maintenance. The system can overcome difficulties related to the charging of batteries and the utilization of energized coil arrays in magnetically levitated linear slider systems. However, cogging forces orthogonal to traveling direction of the platform are induced on the levitating platform, due to permanent magnets and soft magnetic steel core of the open-end generator. Therefore, the complexity of levitation controller is increased. The results of FEM analysis show that the concept is feasible for prototype fabrication. Magnetically levitated linear slider systems have practical applications in the ultra-clean manufacturing environments needed for LCD and semiconductor fabrication.
