City Research Online

Abstract

The prime topic of research presented in this report is the development and use of computer-based modelling methodologies for design and performance modelling of an industrial component in the food sorting industry, exemplified in actuators used in bulk food sorting machines.

Electromagnetic (EM) solenoid actuators are widely used in many applications such as the automobile, aerospace, printing and food industries where repetitive, often high-speed linear or rotating motions are required. In some of these applications they are used as high-speed 'switching' valves for switching pneumatic channels.

The complex nature of electromagnetic, motional and thermal problems is discussed. The methodologies for FE modelling of such high-performance actuators are developed and discussed. These are used for modelling, design, performance evaluation and prediction of the above high-speed actuators. Modelling results showing some of the key design features of the actuators are presented in terms of force produced as a function of various design parameters.

Optimization calculations for the dynamic behaviour are executed at the design process of electromagnetic actuators. Finite element method used for modelling the electromagnetic actuator model. The models are implemented in the design software Opera-2d/3d and were tested at different tasks. The capability is shown at a magnetic actuator.

Magnetically controlled shape memory materials are a new way to produce motion and force. The material changes shape in a magnetic field. Usual applications of the material are actuators that produce linear motion. MSM actuator type is designed and initial investigation presented in this thesis.

Finite element modelling methodologies have been developed for the design and investigation of electromagnetic and thermal behaviours of high-speed, large-force and long-lifetime solenoid actuators used as pneumatic ejector valves in optical sorting machines for bulk food sorting. Operating at frequencies between 150-300 Hz, these actuators are unique in terms of the large force they produced (8-19 N) with very long lifetime (2-5 billion cycles).

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