Force prediction including hysteresis effects in a short-stroke reluctance actuator using a 3d-FEM and the Preisach model

Magnetic hysteresis effects, present in the force of an E-core reluctance actuator, are examined by simulations and measurements. Simulations have been performed with a 3d finite element method (3d-FEM) and a Preisach model, which is extended with a dynamic magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model. Both simulation methods are first examined on the prediction of the magnetic flux density in a closed-and open toroid for dc-and ac excitations. Finally, both methods are used to predict the force of the E-core reluctance actuator, which is compared to ac force measurementsperformed with a piezoelectric load cell.