Three-Dimensional Electromagnetic Analysis of Tubular Permanent Magnet Linear Launcher

A short-stroke and large thrust axial magnetized tubular permanent magnet linear launcher (TPMLL) is presented in this paper. Its three-dimensional (3-D) finite-element (FE) models are established for sensitivity analyses on some parameters conducted to achieve greatest thrust. Then, its two-dimensional (2-D) FE models are also established. The electromagnetic thrusts calculated by 2-D and 3-D FE method and obtained from the prototype test are compared. Moreover, the prototype static and dynamic tests are conducted to verify the 2-D and 3-D electromagnetic analysis. The combined simulation between the control system and the 3-D FE model of the TPMLL is built. It can be seen that the simulated voltage waveforms and current waveforms of the winding, the simulated frequency curves of the mover with the movement range from -6 to 6 mm, are accordant with the tested results. Hence, the correctness of established FE models is further verified, and the feasibility of proposed control strategy is testified.