Continuum Electromechanics

Electromechanics encompasses coupled electromagnetic and mechanical phenomena in which electromagnetic fields affect the motion of materials, and that motion in turn affects the fields. At LEES we study finite-dimensional electromechanical systems in which the materials move as rigid bodies, and continuum electromechanical systems in which the materials can be gases, liquids or flexible solids. Often, our study of electromechanics is integrated with studies of heat transfer, materials science, electronics, and/or vibration and acoustics.

The most common electromechanical systems we study at LEES are finite-dimensional actuators such as rotating and linear motors. We are broadly concerned with the analysis, design and control of these actuators and we seek to improve their ability to provide precise motion control, efficient energy conversion and reliable operation. The system power ratings in our studies range from microwatts to megawatts. Typical applications which motivate our studies include robotics, commercial and industrial drives, electric propulsion, magnetic levitation, control of electromagnetic systems, and power generation. Our efforts usually involve consideration of new materials, heat transfer and the design of signal and power electronics to be used for control.

Our studies of continuum electromechanics have always focused on the fundamental physical behavior of such systems. Nonetheless, our work is commonly driven by applications. In the past, these applications have included electrohydrodynamic mixing, ink-jet printing, pollution control based on electrofluidized beds, electrostatic paint spraying, and the investigation of material properties. More recently, we have begin to develop new applications of magnetohydrodynamic systems involving ferrofluids.

We also study continuum electromechanics in the context of biological systems. While this field of research is intellectually quite similar to that which is described above, it is quite different from the viewpoint of applications and peripheral fields of research. Our research on continuum electromechanics in the context of biological systems is described separately in this booklet.

Students interested in pursuing research in electromechanics must be knowledgeable in electromagnetics, electronic circuits, digital and analog control, and mechanics, as well as other disciplines which are project-specific. Typical course work includes: Fields, Forces and Energy (6.013); Introduction to Electric Power Systems (6.061); Dynamics, Estimation and Control of Electrical Machine Systems (6.238); Electronic Circuits (6.333); Power Electronics (6.334); Fields, Forces and Motion (6.601); Continuum Electromechanics I and II (6.671 \& 6.672); and Electric Machinery (6.685).

Current Projects:

Dielectrometry Sensors and Algorithms in Non-Destructive Testing of Materials, Electrical Power Apparatus, and Civil Infrastructures
Ferrofluid Flow and Spin Profiles in Alternating and Traveling Magnetic Fields
Model-based Landmine Detection Using Dielectrometry
Optical Tomography Measurements of High Voltage Conduction and Breakdown Phenomena in Dielectrics
Polymer Gel Actuators and Sensors

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