A magnetostrictive system in industrial automation doesn't typically convert vibrations directly into electrical power like some other energy harvesting technologies might. Instead, a magnetostrictive system is used for sensing and measurement purposes, particularly in applications where accurate position or displacement measurement is required. Let me explain how it works and its relevance in industrial automation.
Magnetostriction is a property exhibited by certain materials, often ferromagnetic ones, where they change their shape in response to an applied magnetic field. This effect is reversible, meaning the material returns to its original shape when the magnetic field is removed. This property is exploited in magnetostrictive sensors.
In a typical magnetostrictive sensing system used in industrial automation, there are two main components:
Waveguide Tube: This is a cylindrical rod made of magnetostrictive material. It's typically placed within the structure or system whose position or movement needs to be measured. It can be fixed to the object whose displacement you're monitoring.
Interrogation System: This is the electronic unit responsible for generating and receiving signals. It usually consists of a coil that generates a magnetic pulse along the length of the waveguide tube. When an electrical pulse is applied to the coil, it generates a magnetic field that travels down the waveguide tube.
The magnetostrictive material within the waveguide tube responds to the magnetic field by undergoing a slight deformation. This deformation generates a mechanical wave that travels at a known speed along the length of the tube. This wave is detected by the interrogation system, which measures the time it takes for the wave to travel from the point of excitation to the point of reflection.
By measuring the time it takes for the mechanical wave to travel, the system can accurately determine the distance between the point of excitation and the point of reflection. This distance measurement can be converted into a position or displacement measurement, which is then used for industrial automation applications such as feedback control systems, robotic arms, or hydraulic systems.
So, a magnetostrictive system in industrial automation doesn't directly convert vibrations into electrical power. Instead, it uses the magnetostrictive effect to accurately measure the position or displacement of objects, enabling precise control and automation in various industrial processes. If you're looking to convert vibrations into electrical power, you might want to explore other technologies like piezoelectric or electromagnetic energy harvesting systems.