Evaluation and Analysis of Flux-Regulated Permanent Magnet Linear Eddy Current Brakes

In this study, a novel permanent magnet linear eddy current brake based on the field regulation theory is presented, and the corresponding analytical model is developed. By shifting transversely the field-regulated plate, the real-time and easy control of the braking force can be achieved, which is the intent of the proposed topology. The key structure and operation principle are addressed. In addition, to avoid the excessive computation time and cost when using the numerical method, a practical analytical model for calculating the electromagnetic and force performance is established based on the magnetic equivalent circuit method with variable reluctance. The validity of the model is verified using the 3-D finite element analysis and equivalent prototype experiments. Moreover, further analysis is carried out to investigate the effects of the key geometrical parameters on the braking force-speed characteristic.