Embedded Microcontroller Based Magnetic Levitation

Introduction

Magnetic levitation is a fundamental requirement for implementing a magnetic bearing (MB). In a magnetic bearing system, it provides a contact-free support for the rotating shaft. This is achieved through an attractive magnetic levitation force, produced by passing current(s) through electromagnet(s). The magnetic force is controlled with the help of adjustable current by implementing a control system. The gap between stator and rotor is measured with a position sensor and is used as a means of controlling the levitation force of the magnetic bearing. In this chapter the implementation of the control system for magnetic levitation based on an embedded microcontroller has been described. If the implementation of magnetic bearing system is done by using only electromagnets, it is known as Active Magnetic Bearing (AMB) system.