Ferrofluids are stable colloidal homogeneous mixtures of nano-size single-domain ferromag¬netic particles covered by surfactant layer, and suspended in a carrier fluid compatible with the surfactant. Physical properties of ferrofluid allows one to control it externally using magnetic field without being in direct contact with it. The thesis presents a novel mechanism to pump ferrofluid based on the principle of variable reluctance, in an external magnetic field. The static and dynamic pressure behavior of ferrofluid in a switched DC magnetic field gives an insight into the variable reluctance behavior of ferrofluid. A ferrofluid pump based on the prin¬ciple of variable reluctance of ferrofluid subjected to an external magnetic field, is developed and hence the pump is named as Variable Reluctance Ferrofluid Pump (VRFP). Three configurations of VRFP are developed: • Single stage one-phase VRFP • Single stage two phase VRFP • Multi-stage VRFP A one-phase VRFP consisting of a check valve along with an electromagnet is designed. The valve is modeled and its transfer function is estimated using System Identification method. This model is then used in the simulation model of the pump. The pump is modeled based on the hydraulic-electric analogies. An electric circuit which represents the gross level equivalent of the pump is simulated and the results are compared with that of the experimental measurements. A two phase VRFP is implemented with two electromagnets on either side of the valve around the tube. Two types of magnetic actuation methods are introduced based on the switching sequences of the two electromagnets, namely Full Step Sequencing and Half Step Sequencing. Simulations and experiments were conducted for different pumping conditions. The one phase and two phase VRFPs are single stage structures. A multi-stage VRFP concept, in which the ferrofluid flow channel (tube) is looped through the electromagnets multiple times, is introduced. For the implementation purpose, a two-stage VRFP is discussed in this thesis. Simulations and experiments resulted in significant improvement in case of two-stage VRFP in the pump performance compared to that of single-stage VRFPs. The work presents a simple and novel design of a ferrofluid pump, which is capable of higher flow rates and pumping against higher back pressure compared to the ferrofluid pumps reported in literature. Keywords: Ferrofluid Pump, VRFP, Variable Reluctance, Multi Stage, Magnetic Fluid,

The variable reluctance motor (VRM) is known for its structural simplicity, lower cost and capability of higher specific outputs compared with the AC induction motor. These favourable attributes arise from the way the torque is generated. An asymmetric half bridge would commonly be used as the controller for the VRM. It is also a relatively simple circuit because unlike the requirement with an AC induction motor, the imput current for a VRM would only need to be able to travel in one direction.

Improved actuator point-to-point positioning performance, as measured by settling time, has been demonstrated in the context of manufacturing automation applications such as circuit board assembly and other product-transfer operations. The control objective is to move a single mass in a single axis from a starting position to a target position following the fastest possible motion trajectory while meeting final-position accuracy requirements. The actuator's achievable force that is available for acceleration is the fundamental variable that determines optimal settling time. The actuator technology employed is the linear variable reluctance motor. Mathematical motor models and simulation programs have been developed to perform several tasks necessary for demonstrating improved actuator performance: (i) optimal commutation under force ripple constraints has been computed to determine ripple-specified force limits and to provide excitation waveforms necessary for force production, (ii) motion profiles for several positioning task scenarios have been generated based on computed ripple-specified force limits, (iii) state space integral position control simulations have been performed to evaluate the degree of success of the proposed relaxation of force ripple constraints in improving settling time and (iv) the computed settling times for positioning tasks have been examined in relation to the copper losses associated with them in order to assess the trade-off. It has been shown that higher force capability is achieved when force-ripple constraints, which have been customarily emphasized in positioning applications, are relaxed. The higher capability is exploited by adopting faster motion trajectories, which are then imposed under feedback control to achieve faster settling time. Improved force capability with relaxed ripple constraints is demonstrated by generating average force versus speed capability curves under ripple constraints ranging from minimal ripple to unconstrained ripple. Improved positioning performance, with relaxed ripple constraints and without violating the final-position accuracy specification, is demonstrated by computing and comparing settling time for multiple positioning tasks with trajectories based on both extremes of force capability, lowest (no-ripple) and highest (unconstrained-ripple) force limits. The results have been demonstrated for two LVR motor configurations: one motor configuration represents typical (switched) linear and rotary variable reluctance motors while the other exhibits features of both switched and synchronous varieties of variable reluctance motors.

Este trabalho se insere num contexto de desenvolvimento da capacitação para aplicações de motores de relutância chaveados, com ênfase aos aspectos eletromagnéticos do acionamento. Inicialmente, são apresentados os principais aspectos construtivos do motor e de funcionamento do seu conversor. São discutidos os fluxos de energia do acionamento e sao apresentadas as suas características operacionais, bem como as possibilidades para o seu controle. Foi desenvolvida uma metodologia de projeto embasada numa formulação empírica e no método dos elementos finitos, implementado através do programa flux2d. Desta forma, foi projetado um protótipo para desenvolver meio newton-metro a três mil rotações por minuto. A formulação empírica baseia-se na adoção de diversas hipóteses simplificadoras do circuito ferromagnético. O método dos elementos finitos foi empregado com a finalidade da obtenção de um refinamento do dimensionamento do motor. O protótipo projetado foi fabricado e testado. Os objetivos dos ensaios foram a confrontação com os diversos valores calculados no projeto e a verificação do seu desempenho em diversas condições de carga. Finalizando o trabalho, os resultados obtidos são analisados, ressaltando-se os aspectos relevantes ocorridos durante o seu desenvolvimento. São também apresentadas, as atividades subsequêntes previstas. / This work is related to the development activities of switched reluctance motors, mainly on their electromagnetic characteristics. The motor\'s basic construction features and the converter\'s operation characteristics are showed, as well as, the energy flows, performance aspects and the effects of the control parameters. The principal elements of motor desigm are discussed. A method of design is developed based on empirical formulas and on finite elements method (using the software FLUX2D). Thus, a prototype was designed with ratings of 0,5 Nm at 3000 rpm. The empirical formulas are developed on a simplified model of the motor and taking into account the referred author\'s experience. The finite elements method was used with the aim of getting a design refinement, as well as, the static torque characteristics, inductances and flux as a function of rotor position and current. The prototype was built and tested. The tests were conducted to compare the actual with the designed parameters and to evaluate the performance characteristics. Finally, the results are analysed and the main facts observed during the development of the work are reported. The next planned activities are also showed.

Este trabalho se insere num contexto de desenvolvimento da capacitação para aplicações de motores de relutância chaveados, com ênfase aos aspectos eletromagnéticos do acionamento. Inicialmente, são apresentados os principais aspectos construtivos do motor e de funcionamento do seu conversor. São discutidos os fluxos de energia do acionamento e sao apresentadas as suas características operacionais, bem como as possibilidades para o seu controle. Foi desenvolvida uma metodologia de projeto embasada numa formulação empírica e no método dos elementos finitos, implementado através do programa flux2d. Desta forma, foi projetado um protótipo para desenvolver meio newton-metro a três mil rotações por minuto. A formulação empírica baseia-se na adoção de diversas hipóteses simplificadoras do circuito ferromagnético. O método dos elementos finitos foi empregado com a finalidade da obtenção de um refinamento do dimensionamento do motor. O protótipo projetado foi fabricado e testado. Os objetivos dos ensaios foram a confrontação com os diversos valores calculados no projeto e a verificação do seu desempenho em diversas condições de carga. Finalizando o trabalho, os resultados obtidos são analisados, ressaltando-se os aspectos relevantes ocorridos durante o seu desenvolvimento. São também apresentadas, as atividades subsequêntes previstas. / This work is related to the development activities of switched reluctance motors, mainly on their electromagnetic characteristics. The motor\'s basic construction features and the converter\'s operation characteristics are showed, as well as, the energy flows, performance aspects and the effects of the control parameters. The principal elements of motor desigm are discussed. A method of design is developed based on empirical formulas and on finite elements method (using the software FLUX2D). Thus, a prototype was designed with ratings of 0,5 Nm at 3000 rpm. The empirical formulas are developed on a simplified model of the motor and taking into account the referred author\'s experience. The finite elements method was used with the aim of getting a design refinement, as well as, the static torque characteristics, inductances and flux as a function of rotor position and current. The prototype was built and tested. The tests were conducted to compare the actual with the designed parameters and to evaluate the performance characteristics. Finally, the results are analysed and the main facts observed during the development of the work are reported. The next planned activities are also showed.

A finalidade deste trabalho é desenvolver uma contribuição ao projeto de geradores e motores de relutância chaveados. A primeira etapa do projeto consiste no dimensionamento inicial da máquina através de métodos analíticos convencionais [01]para, em seguida, desenvolver o seu refinamento usando o Método dos Elementos Finitos acoplado com as equações de circuitos elétricos. Inicialmente, é apresentada uma abordagem atualizada dos aspectos construtivos e operacionais deste equipamento, comuns aos dois modos de funcionamento, bem como dos aspectos relevantes da metodologia computacional utilizada. Apresentam-se, em seguida, os resultados das simulações conduzidas para a obtenção das características de torque estático, do fluxo concatenado e das indutâncias, em função da posição angular do rotor e da corrente, as suas implicações no projeto e a sua utilização para a definição das condições operacionais dinâmicas a serem simuladas. Em seguida, são apresentados os resultados das simulações em regime permanente e em transitórios operacionais da máquina elétrica funcionando de uma forma integrada com o seu conversor eletrônico dedicado. No fechamento deste trabalho, estes resultados são discutidos e comparados com alguns ensaios realizados. Apresenta-se também os possíveis desdobramentos para a continuidade do projeto deste tipo de equipamento. O enfoque essencial deste trabalho é a máquina elétrica e os seus resultados propiciam também uma orientação para a definição dos requisitos de projeto do conversor eletrônico e do sistema de controle. / This work aims to provide a contribution to the project of switched reluctance generators and motors. The first stage of the project consists of initial dimensioning of the machine through conventional analytical methods[1] followed by its refinement by using the Finite-element Method coupled with circuit equations. An updated approach on the constructive and operational aspects common to both the ways of the equipment, as well as relevant aspects of the computational methodology used are initially presented. Results of simulations carried out to obtain torque characteristics, flux-linkage and inductance, as a function of angular position of rotor and current, their implications in the project and their use to define dynamic operational condition to be simulated are then showed. Sequentially, results of the steady-state and transients operational simulations of the electric machine working in an integrated way with its dedicated electronic converter are presented. In the closing of this work, these results are discussed and compared to some of the tests performed. Related subjects for continuation of the project of this type of equipment are also presented. The main focus of this work is the electric machine and its results also provide an orientation to the definition of requirements to the project of electronic converter and control system.

A finalidade deste trabalho é desenvolver uma contribuição ao projeto de geradores e motores de relutância chaveados. A primeira etapa do projeto consiste no dimensionamento inicial da máquina através de métodos analíticos convencionais [01]para, em seguida, desenvolver o seu refinamento usando o Método dos Elementos Finitos acoplado com as equações de circuitos elétricos. Inicialmente, é apresentada uma abordagem atualizada dos aspectos construtivos e operacionais deste equipamento, comuns aos dois modos de funcionamento, bem como dos aspectos relevantes da metodologia computacional utilizada. Apresentam-se, em seguida, os resultados das simulações conduzidas para a obtenção das características de torque estático, do fluxo concatenado e das indutâncias, em função da posição angular do rotor e da corrente, as suas implicações no projeto e a sua utilização para a definição das condições operacionais dinâmicas a serem simuladas. Em seguida, são apresentados os resultados das simulações em regime permanente e em transitórios operacionais da máquina elétrica funcionando de uma forma integrada com o seu conversor eletrônico dedicado. No fechamento deste trabalho, estes resultados são discutidos e comparados com alguns ensaios realizados. Apresenta-se também os possíveis desdobramentos para a continuidade do projeto deste tipo de equipamento. O enfoque essencial deste trabalho é a máquina elétrica e os seus resultados propiciam também uma orientação para a definição dos requisitos de projeto do conversor eletrônico e do sistema de controle. / This work aims to provide a contribution to the project of switched reluctance generators and motors. The first stage of the project consists of initial dimensioning of the machine through conventional analytical methods[1] followed by its refinement by using the Finite-element Method coupled with circuit equations. An updated approach on the constructive and operational aspects common to both the ways of the equipment, as well as relevant aspects of the computational methodology used are initially presented. Results of simulations carried out to obtain torque characteristics, flux-linkage and inductance, as a function of angular position of rotor and current, their implications in the project and their use to define dynamic operational condition to be simulated are then showed. Sequentially, results of the steady-state and transients operational simulations of the electric machine working in an integrated way with its dedicated electronic converter are presented. In the closing of this work, these results are discussed and compared to some of the tests performed. Related subjects for continuation of the project of this type of equipment are also presented. The main focus of this work is the electric machine and its results also provide an orientation to the definition of requirements to the project of electronic converter and control system.

<p><p>To improve the speed measurement of construction equipment, different sensor technologies have been investigated. Many of these sensor technologies are very interesting but to keep the extent of the thesis only two was chosen for testing, magnetic absolute angle sensors using Hall and GMR technology, to investigate if those are a valid replacement for the current measurement system that is using a passive sensor. Tests show that these sensors are capable of speed measurement, but because of noisy angle estimates they need filtering for good speed computation. This filtering introduces a large time delay that is of significance for the quality of the estimate. A Kalman filter has been implemented in an attempt to lower the time delays but since only a very simple model has been used it does not give any improvements over ordinary low pass filtering. For these sensors the mounting tolerance is of great interest. For best performance the offset between the sensor and magnet centres need to be kept small for both sensors. This is due to a non-linearity effect this causes. The distance between the sensors and the magnet is not critical for linearity issues, but only for the quality of the signal, where it might drop out when the distance is too large. This is where the sensor using GMR technology stands out. Compared to the Hall technology sensor, the GMR sensor can handle distances that are more than 10 times larger. The conclusion is that these sensors can be a valid replacement of the current measurement system. They will introduce more functionality with the capability of detecting rotational direction and zero velocity. In an application with more than one sensor they can also be used for more purposes, like detecting slip in clutches etc. Depending on the application, the time delays may not be critical, else more work need to be done to improve the estimate, e.g. with a more advanced model for the Kalman filter.</p></p><p> </p>

To improve the speed measurement of construction equipment, different sensor technologies have been investigated. Many of these sensor technologies are very interesting but to keep the extent of the thesis only two was chosen for testing, magnetic absolute angle sensors using Hall and GMR technology, to investigate if those are a valid replacement for the current measurement system that is using a passive sensor. Tests show that these sensors are capable of speed measurement, but because of noisy angle estimates they need filtering for good speed computation. This filtering introduces a large time delay that is of significance for the quality of the estimate. A Kalman filter has been implemented in an attempt to lower the time delays but since only a very simple model has been used it does not give any improvements over ordinary low pass filtering. For these sensors the mounting tolerance is of great interest. For best performance the offset between the sensor and magnet centres need to be kept small for both sensors. This is due to a non-linearity effect this causes. The distance between the sensors and the magnet is not critical for linearity issues, but only for the quality of the signal, where it might drop out when the distance is too large. This is where the sensor using GMR technology stands out. Compared to the Hall technology sensor, the GMR sensor can handle distances that are more than 10 times larger. The conclusion is that these sensors can be a valid replacement of the current measurement system. They will introduce more functionality with the capability of detecting rotational direction and zero velocity. In an application with more than one sensor they can also be used for more purposes, like detecting slip in clutches etc. Depending on the application, the time delays may not be critical, else more work need to be done to improve the estimate, e.g. with a more advanced model for the Kalman filter.

In this study, a model is developed to represent doubly-salient magnetic circuits and to fit finite element analysis for the aim of obtaining a set of normalized normal force, tangential force, and permeance variation data. To obtain the desired data FE field solution method is used. The reliability of finite element results have been verified by three steps / first, comparing the numerical results with analytically calculated permeance, second, by solving two switch reluctance motors and comparing the results with the measurements of static torque and flux linkage. The third step is by using the normalized data obtained by solving the model with the aid of an available software that is capable to predict the behavior of switched reluctance motors. Once the reliability of the data is assured, the desired data set is produced and presented in tables.