Generating rectilinear motion using permanent magnets

Abstract

This paper considers generating rectilinear motion using permanent magnets based on the surface charge method. In this regard, the existing analytical expressions of the interaction magnetic field between cuboidal permanent magnets are modified and extended into new ones that take into account the magnets configuration proposed in this work. The modified equations are then solved numerically and validated via experimental testing. Based on the obtained results, a case study is considered where a magnets configuration is set through numerical iterations to produce rectilinear motion. This configuration, validated experimentally, has a self-starting aspect and generates continuous motion. The proposed technique provides a simple and quick way to configure a set of magnets to produce rectilinear motion. Such systems could be used in various medical or industrial applications such as propelling nanobots throughout the soft tissue of the human body, or driving a production line. This offers a free source of energy resulting in power saving and reduced emissions.