Analysis and Modeling of a passive force sensor based on Villari effect

The paper deals with an engineering application of the inverse magnetostrictive Villari effect. This effect is usually modeled through multi-variate relationships, strongly non linear and with hysteresis. Here, the task is to provide a suitable formulation of those relationships aiming at a device able to measure mechanical force profiles with good accuracy. The device is analyzed and modeled by a mapping function, resulting in an algorithm that reconstructs the time profile of the applied force. A preliminary calibration characterization is carried out on a concept device that exploits Galfenol as magnetostrictive material. Finally, some tests performed with the aim of validating the algorithm and to estimate its performance are presented.