DEVELOPMENT OF MAGNETIC GEAR MECHANISMS

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop novel magnetic gear mechanisms by using creative mechanism design methodology. First, the flowchart of creative mechanism design methodology is introduced. The schematic diagram and graph representation of a magnetic gear device based on its topological structure are presented. Next, the characteristics of the topological structure of an existing 4-link magnetic gear device are analyzed. Feasible specialized chains are then enumerated, subject to design requirements and constraints. The direction of magnetization in permanent magnets is defined and applied to magnetic gear mechanisms. Finally, 12 novel magnetic gear mechanisms with 5 links are synthesized. The magnetic field, transmitted torque and speed ratio of a novel design are analyzed by 2-D FEA.