A Rotational Actuator Using a Thermomagnetic-Induced Magnetic Force Interaction

Abstract

In this paper, we demonstrate a rotational actuator using a thermomagnetic-induced magnetic force interaction. The actuator consists of a magnetic rotary beam, stainless-steel bearing, mechanical frame, thermomagnetic Gadolinium sheets, and thermoelectric generators (TEGs). Experimental results show that applying a sequence of currents to the TEGs successfully produces sequential magnetic forces. Consequently, these sequential magnetic forces rotate the beam for revolutions. When applying a sequence set of currents of -0.5 and 1.3 A, the maximum rotation speed and maximum stall torque of the actuator is 3.81 rpm and 136.2 mu Nm, respectively. Most importantly, the operating temperatures of other thermomagnetic (and electrothermal) actuators are usually high, but the operating temperature of our actuator is approximately room temperature (13 degrees C-27 degrees C). Therefore, our actuators have more practical applications. According to the above-mentioned features, we believe our actuator is an important alternative approach to developing future rotational actuators and motors.