Electromagnetism – Electromechanical Devices

The LAI is specialized in modeling (using developed analytical models and FEM) and design optimization of rotating and linear electric motors and actuators. The design optimization is performed using deterministic methods (based on various gradient methods – the commercial software ProDesign) or stochastic ones (a genetic algorithm developed by the LAI members, or design for experiment). The power ranges from several kW (electric traction) down to µW (MEMS – batch-processed motor placed on a silicon chip). To miniaturize an electric drive and increase its reliability by eliminating position sensors, sensorless control algorithms are applied. A broad set of electromagnetic phenomena is exploited to estimate the rotor/mover position. Among them, two completely new ones are used: the first one is the Magnetic Anisotropy of permanent magnet materials (MAM method) and the second is the local B-H hysteresis loops method.

Electromagnetism being the core of the Lab activity, two application domains have emerged: Contactless Power Transmission (CPT) and Radio Frequency (RF) based solutions for access control. • CPT domain has brought the Lab to develop solutions for many applications. Among them, medical devices for direct stimulation, blood analysis, or power supply; transportation devices for battery charger, high speed vehicles, or particular robots; industry machines for special supply, specific movements, or combined information and power. • The use of the RF domain leads to a lot of advantages in terms of movement freedom. Therefore, it is perfectly suited to ease individuals access management according to their position.