Multi-pole magnetization of NdFeB magnetic elastomers via a programmable magnetic stamp inspired by movable type printing

Multi -pole magnetization is crucial for enhancing the magnetic field strength of magnetic films. Programmable multi -pole magnetization with adjustable pole pitch and covering thicknesses from submillimeter to millimeter are challenging tasks. This paper introduces a programmable magnetic stamp method inspired by movable printing. Demagnetization curves at various temperatures illustrate that NdFeB has lower coercivity when heated, making it easier to magnetize. SmCo magnets as high temperature resistant magnetic stamps provide enough external magnetic field. Heating transfers the magnetic pole distribution of magnetic stamps to the NdFeB film. Using this method, we magnetize the NdFeB magnetic film with a checkerboard pattern (interlaced N and S poles). The minimum width of the pole pitch is 1.3 mm. Comparing the measured magnetic field results with the simulation values of ANSYS Maxwell, the trends are relatively close. Furthermore, we investigate the magnetic field component (Bz) related to height and compare the differences between direct and reverse magnetization. Additionally, five magnetic patterns are customized using arranged SmCo magnet arrays. Notably, this study accomplishes multi -pole magnetization with up to 100 poles, covering a magnetic film thickness ranging from 100 mu m to 1 mm. The proposed approach provides submillimeter/millimeter-thick NdFeB magnetic films that work as powerful flux sources and exhibit promising applications in magnetic tactile sensors and soft robots.