Publications Details

Design and testing of planar magnetic micromotors fabricated by deep x-ray lithography and electroplating

Karnowsky, M.

The successful design and testing of a three-phase planar integrated magnetic micromotor is presented. Fabrication is based on a modified deep X-ray lithography and electroplating or LIGA process. Maximum rotational speeds of 33,000 rpm are obtained in air with a rotor diameter of 285 {mu}m and do not change when operated in vacuum. Real time rotor response is obtained with an integrated shaft encoder. Long lifetime is evidenced by testing to over 5(10){sup 7} ration cycles without changes in performance. Projected speeds of the present motor configuration are in the vicinity of 100 krpm and are limited by torque ripple. Higher speeds, which are attractive for sensor applications. require constant torque characteristic excitation as is evidenced by ultracentrifuge and gyroscope design. Further understanding of electroplated magnetic material properties will drive these performance improvements.