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Ahtracf-This paper depicts a new planar actuator, with novel structure and construction features. It includes a slotless stationary plane armature and a mover with two permanent magnets. By using NdFeB permanent magnets with high-energy product, it became possible to develop a planar motor with a novel topology. The planar actuator develops movement over a plane surface as a result of the interaction between the magnetic flux and current established through the orthogonal multiphase windings that comprehend the armature circuit. The actuator was analysed by means of the finite element method in order to compute the flux density distribution, the forces involved and improve its design. The results are presented in this paper.

This paper presents a study on an induction planar actuator concept. The device uses the same principles as a linear induction motor in which the interaction between a travelling magnetic field and a conducting surface produces eddy currents that leads to the generation of a thrust force and can result in movement over a metallic surface. This can benefit the inspection of metallic surfaces based on the driving platform provided by the induction planar actuator. Equations of the magnetic and electric fields are presented and, by means of these equations, the forces involved were calculated. The behaviour of thrust and normal forces was analysed through the equations and by numerical models, and compared with the results obtained by measurements on a device prototype built in the laboratory as part of the study. With relation to the surface under inspection that forms the secondary, three cases were analysed: (1) a double-layered secondary formed by aluminium and ferromagnetic slabs; (2) a single aluminium layer and (3) a single ferromagnetic layer. Theoretical and measured values of thrust and normal forces showed good correlation.