Dynamic modeling and optimization of a pendulum-type laser leveling system based on eddy current damping

To investigate the dynamic characteristics and eddy current damping behavior of the automatic leveling system in a pendulum-type laser level, a single-degree-of-freedom dynamic model and an analytical eddy current damping model were established. The relationships among magnetic flux density, conductor geometric parameters, and damping coefficient were analyzed theoretically. A three-dimensional finite element electromagnetic model was developed in COMSOL Multiphysics to evaluate the damping performance under different structural configurations. Furthermore, free-decay experiments were conducted to validate the numerical results. The results demonstrate that a smaller copper–magnet gap, a thicker permanent magnet, and the incorporation of a magnetic back iron significantly improve the damping performance. Moreover, the effects of conductor dimensions and thickness on the damping coefficient are highly nonlinear, and the damping enhancement gradually approaches saturation as the conductor size increases.