Design of a cost‐effective magnetic gearbox for an aerospace application

Abstract

Magnetic gears are designed to perform in a highly reliable manner, and offer several advantages compared to mechanical gears but difficulties with manufacturing techniques and cost are strong handicaps. In contrast to conventional gears, the contact and lubrication free force transmitting elements lead to a considerable lifetime and range extension of drive systems. In recent years, magnetic gears have been extensively researched and discussed by both academics and engineers from different industries. However, the vast majority of published work on magnetic gearing relates to novel topologies and performance improvement but not on optimisation of cost and weight. With a judicious parametric model analysis, design can be optimised in terms of torque capability, cost and weight. Moreover, the design process is time and cost consuming, but can be also be reduced by the use of modelling methods. An earlier paper addressed the parametric model approach and its benefits, but did not include a comparison between test and simulation data. This study will summarise the findings and present the test data from a magnetic gearbox designed for an aerospace application such as a high lift system.