Torque Ripple Suppression in an External-Meshed Magnetic Gear Train

Abstract

Magnetic gear trains transmit torque through noncontact magnetic couplings rather than conjugate gear teeth; they have the unique advantages of reduced maintenance and improved reliability, inherent overload protection, high efficiency, precise peak torque transmission, and tolerance for misalignment. Smooth and steadily transmitted torque is an important characteristic for a magnetic gear train. It is necessary for the reduction of possible mechanical vibration, position inaccuracy, and acoustic noise. This paper investigates the transmitted torque characteristics, especially torque ripple reduction, of an external-meshed magnetic gear train using finite-element analysis (FEA). The topological structure and working principles of a simple magnetic gear train with parallel axes are introduced. With the aid of a commercial FEA package, the transmitted torque waveform of a magnetic gear train is numerically calculated. The effects of geometrical parameters on the maximum transmitted torque and torque ripple are further discussed in terms of obtaining a magnetic gear train with high transmitted torque or low torque ripple. This examination offers insights beneficial to future magnetic gear mechanism design.