Output characteristics and experimental study of a highly linear and large-range force sensor based on the Villari effect

Abstract

Based on the principle of the Villari effect, a force sensor with a giant magnetostrictive material (GMM) as the sensitive element, high linearity, and a large range was studied. A Hall element integrated into the structure was used to detect the magnetic flux density and measure the external force. First, the finite element method was used to verify the validity of the intended magnetization process. Second, an equation for GMM magnetization was derived based on the Jiles–Atherton (J–A) model and the magneto-mechanical coupling effect. The relationships between magnetization and the biased magnetic field, and magnetization and the external force were analyzed under the dynamic coupling model of positive and negative effects. Finally, the influences of various biased magnetic fields and external forces on the sensor output characteristics were determined experimentally. The sensitivity of the designed force sensor was 0.337 mV/N when the bias current was 1.2 A and the preload was 120 N. When a force of 1000 N was applied, the linearity was 0.82%. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical design values. These research results aid in the development of a highly linear, large-range force sensor. This study provides the theoretical and technical foundations for a high-performance force sensor that can be used in industrial testing.

Magneto-Mechanical Coupling Analysis of Automobile Brake by Wire System Based on Giant-Magnetostrictive Actuator

“…In the field of application, Shi et al designed a force sensor based on GMM as a sensing element and verified the magnetization process of the material using finite element analysis software. They deduced the magnetization equation of GMM by combining the traditional J-A model and magneto-mechanical coupling model, and conducted experimental validation [11]. Nevertheless, the actual magnetic flux was not experimentally verified in this study, and the actual magnetic field strength could not be obtained.…”

Experimental study on synchronous detection of output force in a self-sensing giant magnetostrictive actuator

“…It should be clarified that since this paper investigates an actuator that combines both actuation and sensing, there will be some limitations in terms of stress sensing capability. With reference to the noise level in figure 7, it is possible to further improve the sensing capability of the SSGMA, for example by adjusting the size and shape of the GMM rod [15], or by applying bias magnetic field [26] to make it more sensitive to stress changes. Figure 9 further illustrates the self-sensing results of the SSGMA for the quasi-static output force.…”

“…The earliest implementations integrated an external sensor such as a Hall element inside the device, and sensed the load force using the magnetic flux of the GMM as the signal [24,25]. Shi et al [26] suppressed the hysteresis of the GMM sensor by compensating the output with a variable bias current to improve the linearity of sensing. Shu et al [15] developed an impact force sensor consisting of a cantilevered Fe-Ga alloy beam, the sensing signal of which is the induced voltage of the internal pickup coil, further enhancing the sensing sensitivity.…”

Strain Sensing Technology to Enable Next-Generation Industry and Smart Machines for the Factories of the Future: A Review

“…Moreover, Talebian [342] investigated the linearity and bias in the magnetic field under different ranges using a force sensor model based on Terfenol-D as a giant magnetostrictive (GM) material. Shi et al [343] developed a high-linearity and large-range force detection method using a system of Hall element and GM material. In a range of up to 1000 N, they scored a load sensitivity of 0.337 mV/N with a bias current of 1.2 A and a preload of 120 N. Very recently, Mirzamohamadi et al [344] utilized Galfenol to fabricate an MR force-torque sensor for contactless monitoring in industrial tools and manufacturing applications.…”