Dynamic transduction characterization of magnetostrictive actuators

The objective of this thesis is to develop an analysis approach for formulation of transduction or input/output representations for magnetostrictive actuators. This transduction model is developed through application of an electro-magneto-mechanical impedance modeling approach which combines both the mechanical dynamics and coupled behavior of the actuator device. Lumped and continuous mechanical impedance elements model the actuator dynamics and the constitutive relationships for Terfenol-D characterize the electro-magneto-mechanical interaction. Experimental analysis of a Terfenol-D actuator serves to verify the developed models and provides an indication of actuator non-linearity.

The developed transduction model allows for various device behavior analysis including dissipative power consumption, force and stroke output, and efficiency as a transducer. An actuator design strategy based upon the dynamics of the actuator and a driven external system is presented and allows for analysis of various actuator behaviors in terms of device parameters. The Terfenol-D actuator as a collocated actuator/sensor is also made possible with the transduction model.