Project Title:

Adaptive Materials Using Magnetostrictive Actuation

04.21-0540
911677
Adaptive Materials Using Magnetostrictive Actuation
Satcon Technology Corporation
12 Emily Street
Cambridge
MA
02139-4507
Ralph C.
Fenn
617-661-0540
LaRC
NAS1-19542
072

04.21-0540
911677

Abstract:

Adaptive Materials Using Magnetostrictive Actuation
A new class of adaptive materials will be developed using magnetostrictive actuation.
These will provide a superior alternative to piezoelectric materials now under development.
A unique characteristic of magnetostrictive materials is the contactless transfer
of power to the material through magnetic fields. This freedom to separate the electrical
components physically from the actuator material has the advantages of eliminating
both bulky and unreliable embedded power or sensor leads and shorting by conductive
laminations. Physical continuity and integrity of the actuator lamination is unnecessary,
and there is greater shape flexibility by using magnetic field alterations. Many
magnetostrictive materials have the additional benefits of favorable physical properties
that are often lacking in piezoelectric materials, such as toughness, ductility,
and stable properties. Phase I will identify magnetostrictive materials, and various
magnetrostrictive material and field producing geometries will be analyzed. Proof-of-concept
samples will be fabricated and tested for properties of importance to adaptive materials.
Phase II will characterize, validate, and integrate magnetostrictive adaptive materials
into a structure for evaluation of damping, motion, and shape control. Adaptive materials
based on magnetostrictive actuation offer improved reliability, maintainability,
and flexibility over existing materials.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  Commercial uses of the adaptive materials include
active vehicle suspension, active structural control, vibration and noise isolation,
precision industrial position systems, and ultra-precision machining applications.
adaptive materials, smart materials, magnetostriction, intelligent structures