Industrial

Educational

Scientific

Engineering questions

Sample problems

Examples gallery

Step-by-step tutorials

Verification examples

Programming examples

Distributive examples

Success stories

Customers

Main >> Applications >> Sample problems

Solenoid actuator parametric analysis - QuickField simulation example

This is an example of the solenoid actuator simulation, performed with QuickField software.

Engineering question

How to calculate a solenoid actuator's force characteristic, parameter sensitivity, and geometry in one parametric workflow?

Answer
Use LabelMover for position sweeps, tolerance analysis of current and position, and optimization of core-window height for maximum force.

More questions →

Typical applications
solenoid actuators, linear electromagnetic drives, industrial actuator mechanisms

Solenoid actuator parametric analysis

Download

Simulation problem

Problem Type
Axisymmetric problem of DC magnetics.

Geometry
actuator 3d model

Given
Relative permeability of air and coil μ = 1;
Current density in the coil j = 4 A/mm²;
Core and plunger are made of non-linear ferromagnetic material:

Task:
1. Calculate the force vs. position characteristic. The plunger position can vary from 0 to 10 cm. With LabelMover we perform automatic geometry modifications with step of 1 cm. For each step the mechanical force is calculated.
solenoid actuator magnetic force

2. Study the current and plunger position influence on mechanical force. Nominal position of the plunger is 10+0.5 cm. Nominal current is 4 A/mm²+10%. With LabelMover Tolerance Analysis we perform variations and calculate the force automatically.
solenoid actuator magnetic force tolerance analysis

3. Maximize the force. We can maximize the force by increasing the core window size. Thus more coil turns can be added to provide greater force. At the same time the core reluctance increases. Let's find the core window size that provides maximal force.
This can be easily done with LabelMover Optimization.
Solenoid actuator core window height optimization The core window grows upward into the top yoke while its width and the base stay fixed, illustrating the LabelMover-optimized search for the window height that maximizes force. Window height =?

Results
The optimized core window height should be 71.73 mm (initially it was 40 mm).
Solenoid actuator parametric analysis

Video

Related examples