Design and Performance Evaluation of a Hybrid Flux-Path Limited-Angle Torque Motor

Torque motors are typically operated within a limited angular range and are widely used in high-precision control applications due to their ability to provide uniform torque throughout the operating region. In this paper, a new torque motor structure is proposed that enhances torque density while maintaining the inherent torque uniformity. The proposed motor employs an optimized stator pole geometry that enables the magnetic flux generated by both the armature and the permanent magnet to contribute more effectively to torque production. To clarify the torque generation mechanism, the flux distributions of the field and armature were analyzed and validated through finite element analysis. Key design parameters were then defined, and an optimal design was performed to maximize the average torque. The performance of the proposed structure was evaluated through a comparative analysis with a conventional torque motor, confirming its superiority. Finally, a prototype of the proposed torque motor was fabricated, and its torque performance was verified through load testing.