Design and Implementation of an Electromagnetic Power Cylinder using the Gauss Cannon Principle

Abstract

This article defines the stages of design, modeling, and simulation of an electromagnetic propulsion system for a translational displacement cylinder. The main objective is to simplify, optimize, and economize translational mechanical motion generation systems by adapting and implementing a Gauss cannon in the propulsion system, which does not require a large number of elements to work nor significant maintenance efforts. The methodology consists of an analysis, modeling, and simulation process of the electrical subsystem, the mechanical subsystem, and the electromechanical coupling to understand the dynamic response of the overall system and detail the relationship between the most determining variables of the electromagnetic propulsion system. Matlab-Simulink software was used for the simulation process and obtaining response curves. The results show a significant relationship between the input current from the discharge of the electrolytic capacitors and the speed and acceleration of the piston inside the cylinder, as well as demonstrating that design criteria in the system play a very important role in the efficiency of the propulsion system, from the capacitance of the capacitors in the Gauss cannon, input voltage, magnet wire gauge, number of turns, piston mass, and friction coefficient. This study provides a solid foundation for understanding and subsequently constructing the system, as well as implementing control techniques to ensure the best performance and its implementation in the industrial sector.