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Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements

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A special issue of Sensors (ISSN 1424-8220). This special issue belongs to the section "Physical Sensors".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2020) | Viewed by 47434

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Slawomir Wiak

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Guest Editor

Institute of Mechatronics and Information Systems, Lodz University of Technology, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
Interests: Electrical Engineering and Computer Science; advanced numerical methods; CAD; database systems; AI (VR/AR); 5G; expert systems; e-learning systems; MEMS; mechatronic systems; engineering software; advanced software in medical sciences
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Prof. Dr. Paolo Di Barba

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Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
Interests: magnetics; mechatronics; MEMS; evolutionary computing; multi-objective optimization; coupled problems; finite-element methods; metamaterials for 5G and 6G systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue presents a broad overview of methods of both the analysis and design of sensors and actuators, mainly addressed to scientists as well as research students in the area of electrical and computer engineering, as well as mechatronics. It collects a selection of extended papers presented at the International Symposium on Electromagnetic Fields in Mechatronics, and Electrical and Electronic Engineering (ISEF), which took place in Nancy, France from 29th through 31st August 2019.

In general, the following remarks can be put forward. Progress in the technology of devices for sensing and actuation is boosted by several factors, for instance, the availability of smart materials like magnetic composites, size miniaturization, the impact of power electronics for supply, and a need for energy-saving systems. In particular, miniaturization techniques make it possible to integrate different physical domains within the same device, the behavior of which is characterized by the interaction of coupled fields. This in turn has an impact on the modelling level, because tools for analysis and design more likely than not are supposed to offer facilities for multiphysics nonlinear analysis. Correspondingly, sophisticated techniques of measurements are needed for the assessment and testing of prototypes.

Moving from this background, the scope of the Issue is threefold:

-Increasing our awareness of sensors, transducers, and actuators as the most innovative devices in everyday technology;

-Stimulating research projects in areas like, e.g., the exploitaiton of new materials and the development of multiphysics modelling tools;

-Helping academic teachers to restructure curricula in electrical engineering according to the emerging trends in research.

Because of the multidisciplinary nature of the covered topics, the skills of different authors acting in different areas of science and technology are necessary, and relevant contributions are welcome.

Prof. Slawomir Wiak
Prof. Paolo Di Barba
Guest Editors

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Keywords

Small sensors and actuators
Smart materials
Magnetic composites
Wireless body area networks
Analytical models
Field-circuit models
Finite-element analysis
Inverse problems
Multiobjective optimization.

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Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 4155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temperature and Torque Measurements of Switched Reluctance Actuator with Composite or Laminated Magnetic Cores

by Marek Przybylski, Barbara Ślusarek, Paolo Di Barba, Maria Evelina Mognaschi and Sławomir Wiak

Sensors 2020, 20(11), 3065; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20113065 - 28 May 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3346

Abstract

Soft magnetic composite (SMC) materials made of iron powder are more frequently used in construction of electric actuators and motors because of their advantages with respect to Fe–Si electric steel sheets and because they have almost no powder loss. The study deals with measurements of temperature and torque of a low-power rotary switched reluctance actuator, with reference to a commercial actuator and a prototype actuator characterized by stator and rotor cores made of soft magnetic composite materials. Further power loss analysis was also conducted. To assess the actuators, magnetization characteristics and iron loss vs. magnetic flux density at a given frequency were measured according to IEC standards. Results show that the actuator made of soft magnetic composites exhibits higher efficiency and a lower temperature rise of stator and windings in comparison with the commercial actuator. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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18 pages, 6223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Design of Switchable Wearable Antenna Array for Wireless Sensor Networks

by Łukasz Januszkiewicz, Paolo Di Barba and Sławomir Hausman

Sensors 2020, 20(10), 2795; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20102795 - 14 May 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3424

Abstract

In the paper, we present a novel approach to the optimum design of wearable antenna arrays intended for off-body links of wireless body area networks. Specifically, we investigate a four-element array that has a switchable radiation pattern able to direct its higher gain towards a signal source and a lower gain towards an interference. The aim is to increase the signal to interference ratio. We apply a genetic algorithm to optimize both the spatial placement and the feed phasing of the elementary on-body antennas. We propose a simplified, computationally efficient model for the simulation of the array radiation pattern. The model is based on full-wave simulations obtained with a simplified cylindrical model of the human body. We also propose, implement, and evaluate four objective functions based on signal to interference ratio, i.e., min-max, nadir point distance maximization, utopia point distance minimization, and full Pareto-like. Our optimized design obtained with this approach exhibits a significant performance improvement in comparison to the initial heuristic design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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13 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of a Serial/Parallel Type of Electromagnetic Actuator

by Kenta Takei, Wataru Kitagawa, Takaharu Takeshita and Yoshio Fujimura

Sensors 2020, 20(10), 2762; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20102762 - 12 May 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2532

Abstract

This paper describes the design and analysis of a small-sized and high thrust electromagnetic actuator. The proposed actuator is supposed to be used for application control of the hotmelt adhesive. The hotmelt has different characteristics for each material and the electromagnetic actuator is required variable characteristics. However, the problem seems to lie in the fact that it is necessary to remake another mold again to change the characteristics of the conventional electromagnetic actuator. Therefore, this paper presents small-sized electromagnetic actuator called a basic model that can stack it in the axial direction or in the radial direction. As the analysis comparison at the same size, the characteristics of conventional two serial model which stack two basic models in the axial direction and proposed three serial models have been compared by three-dimensional finite element method. In the proposed model, characteristics have been improved by reducing the core volume and increasing the number of stacks in the basic model from the viewpoint of magnetic flux density. In addition, various electromagnetic actuators that stack basic models in the axial direction or in the radial direction have been analyzed. The analysis results have been clearly shown as characteristics mapping and it has indicated that the proposed electromagnetic actuator can be constructed easily by stacking the basic model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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14 pages, 3945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling of Magnetic Field and Transients in a Novel Permanent Magnet Valve Actuator

by Andrzej Waindok, Bronisław Tomczuk and Dariusz Koteras

Sensors 2020, 20(9), 2709; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20092709 - 9 May 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3025

Abstract

This paper concerns mathematical modelling of dynamic performances to a new permanent magnet electromagnetic valve actuator (PMEVA). Both static and transient characteristics were simulated by using the finite element method (FEM) and field-circuit approach. The magnetic force values versus the excitation current and the position of the valve actuator movable part have been determined. Our concept of the mover positioning relative to the radial magnets is quite novel. PMEVA parameters are satisfied for implementation in combustion engines. Transients in the device have also been analyzed for no-load and for the nominal burden of the actuator. The indications of the position sensors and the excitation current waves were simulated and measured for the step voltage supply. The calculation results were verified experimentally, and a good conformity has been observed. The advantages of our actuator are simple construction, short time of the switching, the current supplying being needed only at the runner extreme positions, and simple controlling. Additionally, PMEVA design can be extended to support the simultaneous operation of four valves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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13 pages, 14493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Verification of Three-Degree-of-Freedom Electromagnetic Actuator for Image Stabilization

by Akira Heya and Katsuhiro Hirata

Sensors 2020, 20(9), 2485; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20092485 - 27 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3223

Abstract

Image deteriorations due to vibrations have become a problem in autonomous systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles, robots, and autonomous cars. To suppress the vibration, a camera stabilizer using a gimbal mechanism is widely used. However, the size and weight of the system increase because the conventional image stabilization systems require some actuators and links to drive in multi-axes. In order to solve these problems, we proposed a novel three-degree-of-freedom (3DOF) electromagnetic actuator for image stabilization. The actuator can be driven by only three-phase and has a simple structure and control system. This paper describes the experimental verification of the proposed actuator. The torque characteristics are clarified, and the analysis and measured torque characteristics are compared to verify the analysis validity. For verifying the dynamic performance, the frequency characteristics are measured. The effectiveness of the proposed magnetic structure and operating principle are investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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11 pages, 2489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Torque Ripple Minimization of the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine by Modulation of the Phase Currents

by Cezary Jędryczka, Dawid Danielczyk and Wojciech Szeląg

Sensors 2020, 20(8), 2406; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20082406 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6360

Abstract

This paper deals with the torque ripple minimization method based on the modulation of the phase currents of the permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drive. The shape of the supply current waveforms reducing the torque ripple of the machine considered was determined on the basis of finite element analysis (FEA). In the proposed approach, the machine is supplied by a six-leg inverter in order to allow for the injection of zero sequence current harmonics. Two test PMSMs with fractional-slot concentrated windings (FSCW) and surface-mounted permanent magnets (SPMs) have been examined as a case study problem. Wide-range fractional analyses were performed using developed numerical models of the electromagnetic field distribution in the considered machines. The results obtained show that the level of torque ripple in FSCW PMSMs can be effectively reduced by the modulation of the phase currents under the six-leg inverter supply. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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12 pages, 3481 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applications of Smart Textiles in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

by Ewa Korzeniewska, Andrzej Krawczyk, Józef Mróz, Elżbieta Wyszyńska and Rafał Zawiślak

Sensors 2020, 20(8), 2370; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20082370 - 22 Apr 2020

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5209

Abstract

Stroke is a disease affecting a large part of our society. According to WHO data, it is the second world’s biggest killer, accounting for near six million deaths in 2016 and it is about 30% of the total number of strokes per year. Other patients affected by such a disease should be rehabilitated as soon as possible. As a result of this phenomenon, paresis may occur. Among the devices available on the market there are many rehabilitation robots, but the method of electrostimulation can be used. The authors focused their attention on electrostimulation and commercially available therapies. Using this method, application to people with large hand muscle contracture is difficult. The authors of the work present a solution dedicated to exactly such people. A solution of textronic sensors manufactured on a textile substrate using the technology of physical vapor deposition is presented in the article. As a result of the conducted research, an electroconductive structure was obtained with a low surface resistance value of 1 Ω/□ and high flexibility. It can alternatively be used in hand rehabilitation for electrostimulation of fingertips. The solution is dedicated to people with high hands spasticity for whom it is impossible to put on a rehabilitation glove. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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10 pages, 3291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Multi-Branch Cauer Circuits in the Analysis of Electromagnetic Transducers Used in Wireless Transfer Power Systems

by Milena Kurzawa, Cezary Jędryczka and Rafał M. Wojciechowski

Sensors 2020, 20(7), 2052; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20072052 - 6 Apr 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2385

Abstract

In this paper, the feasibility of applying a multi-branch equivalent model employing first- and second-order Cauer circuits for the analysis of electromagnetic transducers used in systems of wireless power transfer is discussed. A method of formulating an equivalent model (EqM) is presented, and an example is shown for a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) consisting of an air transformer with field concentrators. A method is proposed to synthesize the EqM of the considered transducer based on the time-harmonic field model, an optimization algorithm employing the evolution strategy (ES) and the equivalent Cauer circuits. A comparative analysis of the performance of the considered WPTS under high-frequency voltage supply calculated using the proposed EqM and a 3D field model in the time domain using the finite element method (FEM) was carried out. The selected results of the conducted analysis are presented and discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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17 pages, 7926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Motion Control of a Two-Degree-of-Freedom Linear Resonant Actuator without a Mechanical Spring

by Gyunam Kim and Katsuhiro Hirata

Sensors 2020, 20(7), 1954; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20071954 - 31 Mar 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3968

Abstract

This study aims to present a new two-degree-of-freedom (DOF) linear resonant actuator (LRA) and its motion control method without a position sensor. The design method of 2-DOF LRA which resonates with only detent force without a mechanical spring is proposed. Since the information of displacement and direction is required to control 2-DOF LRA, a sensor or an estimator is needed. Therefore, we proposed a position estimator and a motion controller for 2-DOF LRA. This paper proved that reciprocating motion, elliptical motion, and scrolling motion can be controlled without a position sensor. Finite element analysis (FEA) and dynamic simulation results validated the proposed method as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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15 pages, 5130 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Laser Modification on a Composite Substrate and the Resistance of Thin Layers Created Using the PVD Process

by Ewa Korzeniewska, Mariusz Tomczyk and Maria Walczak

Sensors 2020, 20(7), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20071920 - 30 Mar 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2562

Abstract

For physical vapor deposition (PVD) technology, cleaning a substrate is one of the key preliminary processes before depositing the metal layer. In this article, we present the results of research on the modification of a textile composite substrate using laser technology and its influence on the surface resistance of silver structures intended for use in wearable electronics. As a result of the substrate modification, the resistance of the layers increased as compared with the structures produced on an unmodified substrate. An experimental planning technique was used to optimize the laser modification process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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12 pages, 12571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stator Core Shape Design for Low Core Loss and High Power Density of a Small Surface-Mounted Permanent Motor

by Naoya Soda and Masato Enokizono

Sensors 2020, 20(5), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20051418 - 5 Mar 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7105

Abstract

In this paper, a stator core shape design method is proposed for an improvement in the power density of a small surface-mounted permanent magnet (SPM) motor. In order to improve the power density of a motor, it is necessary to increase its torque or reduce its weight. However, when a stator core shape is miniaturized to reduce the weight of the motor, the winding regions in a motor frequently decrease. Our stator core shape design method improves the power density of a motor by reducing its weight without decreasing the torque and keeping the winding regions constant. Moreover, the core loss of a motor also decreases when using our method. A Bezier curve is used for the determination of a stator core shape. The finite element method in consideration of the vector magnetic properties is used to evaluate the core loss of the motor shaped by our method. As a result, the power density of an SPM motor is improved, and the core loss of the motor decreases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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15 pages, 7498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Enhanced Dynamic Simulation Model of a Hybrid Magnetic Bearing Taking Account of the Sensor Noise

by Dawid Wajnert, Jan K. Sykulski and Bronislaw Tomczuk

Sensors 2020, 20(4), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/s20041116 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3154

Abstract

The paper presents simulation and experimental verification of the hybrid magnetic bearing (HMB) performance characteristics. It has been demonstrated that the additional errors from the eddy current sensors have a significant impact on the control signals. An improved mathematical model combines a nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit of the HMB with the ordinary differential equations of its transients. These equations describe the rotor motion and the electric circuit of the system, as well as the control system required for stable levitation of the rotor. Certain harmonics have been observed in the displacement signals of frequencies equal to the multiples of the cylinder rotations. The calculation model has, therefore, been improved, taking into account the interference of the harmonics. Simulation results were validated by comparing the time responses of the transients obtained from the numerical calculations with those measured on a real object; a satisfactory agreement between the results has been achieved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Field Sensors and Actuators: from Modelling to Measurements)

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