Session: 01-01: Valves and Actuators

Paper Number: 140393

140393 - A Compact Electropermanent Magnet Valve Geometry for Switching of Magnetorheological Fluid Using Particle Jamming 

Abstract: 

Electropermanent magnetic (EPM) valves consist of two permanent magnets, one with high coercivity and one with relatively low coercivity, which are able to rapidly redirect the flow of flux within a magnetic circuit. When combined with magnetorheological fluid (MRF), they provide the ability to rapidly switch flow in a hydraulic circuit on or off. EPM valves contain no moving parts and draw no power at rest. These facts, along with their scalability, make them an attractive option for distributed flow control in small hydraulic systems. Examples of EPM valves which exist are often restricted to relatively low-pressure or low-flow operation. Miniaturization of small-scale hydraulic robots, both soft and rigid, is limited by the availability of sufficiently lightweight, compact, and efficient components which are capable of directing fluid at pressures greater than 700 kPa. This research seeks to provide an EPM valve which leverages both the MR properties of the working fluid and the jamming phenomenon exhibited by granular substances. This valve is capable of rapidly switching relatively high pressures while maintaining a highly compact and easily manufactured form factor. Due to its size and low power consumption, it is suitable for distributed hydraulic control in miniature systems such as hydraulically-actuated robots.

Presenting Author: James Gallentine Vanderbilt University

Presenting Author Biography: James (Charlie) Gallentine is a graduate student at Vanderbilt University and is advised by Dr. Eric Barth. His research focus is power supplies and controls for miniature hydraulic soft robots.

Authors:

James Gallentine Vanderbilt University
Nithin Kumar Vanderbilt University
Eric Barth Vanderbilt University