Analytical modeling of eddy current brakes with the application of time varying magnetic fields

•Eddy current brakes are introduced as a substitute to conventional hydraulic ones.•AC field application is proposed to improve limited braking performance of ECB.•An analytical model is developed for ECB considering time varying field application.•An accurate FEM is used to validate the analytical model.•Results show well agreement between numerical and analytical model.

Eddy current brakes have a number of potential advantages, i.e. contactless operation, faster response, reduced number of components and easy implementation of various controllers. However, the braking torque generation is limited at low speeds. Here, to increase the braking torque generation, time varying field application is studied. A new analytical model is derived for in-depth theoretical analysis and future controller design purposes. The braking torque generated is calculated using magnetic vector potential and eddy currents. Then, this model was validated using an accurate finite element model. Results show that the braking torque increases with the application of time-varying fields.