Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2026

High-Speed Magnetic Tweezers for Nanomechanical Measurements on Force-Sensitive Elements
Published on: May 12, 2023
Magnetic localization and manipulation of locking synchronous motors
Michiel Richter1, Lukas Masjosthusmann1, Pavlo Makushko2
1Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Three-dimensional (3D) localization of magneto-surgical devices is essential for safe and efficient navigation. However, existing magnetic localization methods either limit device miniaturization due to internal sensors or require additional excitation fields and external sensor arrays. Herein, we formulate a localization method based on the special properties of rotating magnetic dipoles, which allow reconstruction of position and rotation axis from a single external tri-axial magnetometer. The rotating dipole is realized through a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) that can reversibly (un)lock using the heat-induced phase transition of a low melting point alloy. Sequential localization and manipulation is performed by an external mobile electromagnet equipped with a single eye-in-hand Hall effect sensor. We describe the PMSM's thermal and magnetic properties, formulate the governing localization equations, quantify and validate 3D tracking of PMSM pose trajectory, and demonstrate sequential localization and manipulation in a benchtop experiment.
Related Concept Videos
Force On A Current Loop In A Magnetic Field
Torque On A Current Loop In A Magnetic Field
Consider a rectangular current-carrying loop containing N turns of wire, placed in a uniform magnetic field. The net force on a current-carrying loop...
Electro-mechanical Systems
A key component of the DC motor is the armature, a rotating circuit positioned within a magnetic field. As an electric current passes through the...
Magnetic Fields
A magnetic field is defined by the force that a charged particle experiences...
Magnetism
An individual magnetic pole cannot be isolated. No matter how small, every piece of a magnet contains a north pole and a south...
Ferromagnetism

