Characteristic Analysis and Control of a Rotary Electromagnetic Eddy Current Brake

Abstract

This article designs an electromagnetic rotating eddy current brake (ECB), which has the advantages of no wear and low noise compared with traditional friction brake. First, using the magnetic circuit analysis model, a theoretical calculation formula of the ECB’s braking characteristics is given. The results show that the braking torque is negatively correlated with the thickness of the air gap as well as the electrical conductivity and the relative magnetic permeability of the brake disc material, and positively correlated with the number of ampere turns and the number of electromagnet poles. Secondly, a three-dimensional finite element (FE) model of the brake is established. The results of braking torque-speed characteristics between finite element calculation and theoretical analysis are compared, and the reasons for the differences between the two are explained. Using the FE model, the influence of the design parameters on torque characteristics is studied. Combined with the theoretical analysis model, the results are explained accordingly, providing a reference for the optimal design of the brake. Finally, a controller for the electromagnetic rotating eddy current brake is designed to control the amplitude of the desired braking torque.