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 °C-27 °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.