Trip mechanism-based energy generating device for generating electrical energy

Abstract

The system includes a movable cover including a plurality of engagement members and an energy generator operating component, the energy generator operating component being removably disposed on the movable cover, and a non-rigid material wound around an outer surface of the movable cover, the energy generator operating component including an opening in a housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on a portion of the outer surface of the housing, the protrusions including the opening, a primary magnet disposed in the opening of the housing, and a secondary magnet. Each of the plurality of secondary magnets is disposed in a respective one of the additional openings. Further, the primary magnet is maintained in a first position relative to the secondary magnet. Further, a wire is wound along the outer surface of the housing, and the primary magnet moves from the first position to a second position in response to a change in the non-rigid material.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63 / 437,113, entitled "Energy Generating Apparatus Based on Trip Mechanism for Generating Electrical Energy," filed Dec. 5, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure is directed generally to environmental energy generating devices for generating electrical energy, and more particularly to trip mechanisms implemented in connection with these energy generating devices for generating electrical energy. [Background technology]

[0003] Various types of ambient energy generating devices are currently available. These devices can be based on or include piezoelectric components, one or more magnets, or other components. For example, ambient energy generating devices can be placed within industrial switches and other similar devices and can include one or more lever arms or protrusions that act as actuators to make or maintain contact with various portions of one or more energy generating magnets to transmit and generate energy. Contact with these portions causes movement of the magnets, thereby enabling the electromagnetic induction generation of electrical energy that can be used to power various devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some variations, one or more features disclosed herein include the following features, which may be selectively included in any feasible combination.

[0005] An electric energy generating system and device based on a trip mechanism are provided. In one aspect, an electric energy generating system is provided having a movable cover including a plurality of engagement members and an energy generator operating component. In some aspects, the energy generator operating component can be removably disposed within the movable cover. In some aspects, a non-rigid material can be wound around a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover. The energy generator operating component can include a housing that can include a central opening and a plurality of protrusions disposed on multiple portions of the outer surface of the housing. Each of the plurality of protrusions can include additional openings, a primary magnet disposed in the central opening, and a plurality of secondary magnets. Each of the plurality of secondary magnets can be disposed in a respective one of the additional openings, and the primary magnet can be maintained in a first position relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by a plurality of engagement members. In some aspects, a plurality of windings of wire can be wound along the outer surface of the housing, and the primary magnet can move from the first position to a second position in response to a change in the non-rigid material.

[0006] In some embodiments, the plurality of wire windings can be formed of copper. In some embodiments, the non-rigid material can be paper, and the change in the non-rigid material can correspond to dissolving the non-rigid material.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second configuration can be orthogonal to the first configuration, and the movable cover can include extensions in contact with the non-rigid material that can be wrapped around a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover. In some embodiments, the primary magnet can be maintained in the first configuration relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by a plurality of engagement members that can engage with a plurality of extensions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet. In some embodiments, in the second configuration, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover can disengage from a plurality of extensions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet. In some embodiments, movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration can be in response to dissolving the non-rigid material. In some embodiments, the movement can include angular movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0008] In some embodiments, the angular movement of the primary magnet from the first arrangement to the second arrangement can include vibration of the primary magnet relative to its longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, in the second arrangement, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover can disengage from a plurality of protrusions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet to enable angular movement of the primary magnet from the first arrangement to the second arrangement. In some embodiments, the plurality of secondary magnets can be disposed opposite the primary magnet. In some embodiments, a magnetic pole of one of the plurality of secondary magnets can face toward the primary magnet, and an additional magnetic pole of one of the additional plurality of secondary magnets can face toward the primary magnet. In some embodiments, the primary magnet can be cylindrical, and the movable cover can be formed of metal.

[0009] In another aspect, an electrical energy generating device can have a movable cover including a plurality of engagement members and an energy generating device operating component. In some aspects, the energy generating device operating component can be removably disposed on the movable cover. The non-rigid material can be wound along a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover. The energy generating device operating component can include a central opening in the housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on multiple portions of the outer surface of the housing. In some aspects, the multiple protrusions can include respective additional openings, a plurality of secondary magnets, and a primary magnet disposed in the center of the housing. In some aspects, each of the multiple secondary magnets can be disposed in a respective one of the additional openings, and the primary magnet can be maintained in a first position relative to the multiple secondary magnets by the multiple engagement members. A plurality of windings of wire can be wound along a portion of the outer surface of the housing. In some aspects, the primary magnet can angularly move from the first position to a second position in response to dissolution of the non-rigid material, and the angular movement can include oscillation of the primary magnet relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0010] In some embodiments, the non-rigid material can be formed of copper, wax, or a dissolvable plastic, and the plurality of wire windings can be formed of copper. In some embodiments, the second arrangement can be orthogonal to the first arrangement.

[0011] In another aspect, the system can include at least one housing, a tray, and at least one secondary magnet disposed on a surface of the tray. In some aspects, the primary magnet can move from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to movement of the housing relative to the tray. The first configuration corresponds to a stationary configuration, and the second configuration is oriented approximately 180° from the first configuration.

[0012] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the detailed description and drawings, and from the claims. The following claims of this disclosure are intended to define the scope of protected subject matter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help to explain certain principles related to the disclosed aspects. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an example implementation of an energy generating device operating component and a cross-sectional view of the energy generating device operating component according to some aspects described herein. [Figures 2A-2C] 10A-10C illustrate two different orientations of a primary magnet disposed within an energy generating device working component according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electrical energy generating system of the present disclosure disposed within a housing that may be incorporated as part of an industrial and commercial control switch according to certain aspects described herein. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of an electrical energy generation system of the present disclosure, according to certain aspects described herein. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates the inclusion of a non-rigid material disposed about an outer surface of the electrical energy generation system of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 4C] 1 illustrates a close-up view of an extension included as part of the housing of the electrical energy generation system of the present disclosure, according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates an example application of an electrical energy generation system according to some aspects described herein. [Figures 6A-6C]10A-10C illustrate different orientations of an example device based on a resettable trip mechanism according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 6D-6E] 1 illustrates an example of an apparatus including a preloaded rotor with a trip device according to certain aspects described herein. [Figures 7A-7B] 6A and 6F according to some embodiments described herein. [Figures 8A-8C] 1 illustrates another example of a trip actuator according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 9A] 1 illustrates a housing having a latch oriented in a first configuration according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 9B] 9B illustrates a diagram of the position of the internal components of the housing when the latch is in a first position as shown in FIG. 9A according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 9C] 1 illustrates a housing having a latch in a second position according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 9D] 9D illustrates another view of the position of the internal components of the housing when the latch is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 9C, according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a tray that operates in conjunction with the housing to reset the position of at least some internal components of the housing and an electrical energy generating system disposed within the housing, according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 10B] 1 illustrates a housing proximate a top surface of a tray according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 10C] 10 illustrates a completed movement of the housing relative to the top surface of the tray according to some aspects described herein. [Figure 11A] 10B illustrates a first view of the internal components of the housing when the housing is in a first position relative to the tray as shown in FIG. 10A according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 11B]10C illustrates a second view of the internal components of the housing when the housing is in a second orientation relative to the tray as shown in FIG. 10B according to some embodiments described herein. [Figure 11C] 10C illustrates a third view of the internal components of the housing when the housing is in a third orientation relative to the tray, as shown in FIG. 10C, according to some embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Environmental energy generating devices can operate via impulse-based actuation to generate electrical energy. For example, environmental energy generating devices can be disposed within industrial switches and other similar devices and include one or more actuator lever arms or members operable to contact various portions of one or more magnets within the environmental energy generating device to initiate movement of the magnets, thereby causing and enabling the generation of electromagnetic induction (e.g., electrical energy) to power various devices. However, actuation based on kinetic energy generation requires moving the magnet from a rest position to a displaced or actuated position. The magnet can be released from the displaced or actuated position and then returned to the rest position via vibration.

[0015] In particular, the electrical energy generation systems described in this disclosure include energy generator operating components that are preloaded and prepositioned in a particular direction. In particular, with respect to the preloaded and prepositioned configuration, the energy generator operating components are constrained to an active or displaced configuration in which magnetic potential energy is stored within the electrical energy system. Subsequently, initiation of a trigger mechanism removes all constraints on the energy generator operating components. As a result, the energy generator operating components can return from the active or displaced configuration to the stationary configuration (through an action that converts the stored magnetic potential energy into kinetic energy). For example, a preloading or triggering mechanism can include the use of a non-rigid material wrapped around the periphery of a housing in which the energy generator operating components can be positioned. In some aspects, melting the non-rigid material causes a portion of the housing to move, thereby initiating angular motion of a magnet from the displaced configuration to the stationary configuration. As a result, electromagnetic induction can be generated that can be utilized to power various devices.

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an example implementation of an energy generator operating component 100 for enabling the generation of electrical energy as described in this disclosure, according to some embodiments described herein, and a cross-sectional view 102 of the energy generator operating component 100. As shown, the energy generator operating component 100 includes an assembly 104, which may be formed, for example, from a hard plastic or other similar material. An opening 103 may be present in the center of the assembly 104, in which a primary magnet 112 having a generally cylindrical shape may be movably disposed. Note that the cylindrical shape of the primary magnet 112 is a non-limiting example, and the primary magnet 112 may be designed in multiple other shapes with various dimensions. In some embodiments, the primary magnet 112 may be angularly movable along a longitudinal axis 107, as shown in the cross-sectional view 102 of the energy generator operating component 100 of FIG. 1.

[0017] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the assembly 104 may include a plurality of protrusions 105. Each of the plurality of protrusions 105 may include a respective opening 101 in which a secondary magnet 108 may be disposed. As shown in cross-sectional view 102, each opening of the plurality of protrusions 105 includes a disk-shaped magnet, i.e., a secondary magnet 108. The disk shape of the secondary magnet 108 is a non-limiting example, and the secondary magnet 108 may be designed in a plurality of other shapes with various dimensions. The secondary magnet 108 may be housed within each of the plurality of protrusions 105. In some embodiments, a first set 109 of secondary magnets 108 is disposed in a partial arcuate arrangement on a portion of the outer surface of the assembly 104, and a second set 111 of secondary magnets 108 is disposed in a partial arcuate arrangement on another portion of the outer surface of the assembly 104.

[0018] As shown, the magnets in the first set 109 and the magnets in the second set 111 are positioned opposite one another. Furthermore, the first set 109 includes a polarity that complements or complements the polarity of the second set 111. In some embodiments, the magnetic poles and / or fields of the first set 109 of secondary magnets 108 and the second set 111 of secondary magnets 108 are aligned with the primary magnets 112 such that the magnetic field of the secondary magnets 108 acts on the primary magnets 112, biasing the motion of the primary magnets 112 in a particular direction, i.e., a linear direction from a displaced configuration toward a stationary configuration. Note that in some embodiments, the magnetic poles are aligned to form a fixed or static stationary configuration for the primary magnets 112. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the multiple wire windings 114 can be wound along the outer surface of the assembly 104 such that the wires are fixed to the outer surface. In some embodiments, the multiple wire windings can be formed of a conductive material, such as copper, nickel, etc. Other conductive materials with properties similar to copper are also contemplated.

[0019] 2A-2C illustrate two separate and distinct configurations or orientations of the primary magnet 112 according to some embodiments described herein. In particular, during operation, the primary magnet 112 can undergo angular movement along the longitudinal axis 107 from a stationary configuration 202 to a displaced configuration 204 and return to the stationary configuration 202 due in part to a deflection force induced by a magnetic field, as described above. As shown, the displaced configuration 204 is orthogonal to the stationary configuration 202. In some embodiments, as the primary magnet 112 moves from the displaced configuration 204 to the stationary configuration 202 (e.g., an equilibrium configuration), the primary magnet 112 can oscillate several times before settling into a static configuration. This angular movement of the primary magnet 112, primarily from the displaced configuration 204 to the stationary configuration 202, creates angular acceleration and electromagnetically induces voltages in the multiple wire windings 114. Electromagnetic induction or electrical energy can be utilized to power various devices, such as radio frequency transmitters, receivers, and the like. Specifically, the energy generating device operating component 100 can utilize the angular motion of the primary magnet 112 to generate electrical energy to operate various devices.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A-2C, when the primary magnet 112 is in the displaced configuration 204, the magnetic poles of the primary magnet 112 are substantially opposed to the left and right peripheries of the secondary magnet 108. The primary magnet 112 can be oriented or wound approximately 180° from or relative to the stationary configuration due to the positioning of the secondary magnet 108 relative to the primary magnet 112. Furthermore, the magnetic field generated by the positioning of the first set 109 of secondary magnets 108 and the second set 111 of secondary magnets 108 around the assembly 104 and the primary magnet 112 results in the generation of a bypass ambient magnetic field. Such a magnetic field surrounds and permeates the multiple wire windings 114. Magnetic induction occurs due to the time-velocity change of the flow of fluid through the central interior portion of the coil relative to the wire. Therefore, whenever there is movement (e.g., angular movement) of the primary magnet 112, the bypass magnetic field stretches and distorts through the windings, thereby displacing the magnetic field lines that make up the magnetic field. As a result, a voltage is supplied to the multiple windings of wire, which is then utilized to power various devices. Broadly speaking, the polarity of the primary magnet 112 can be transitioned by the primary magnet 112 undergoing angular movement from a displaced configuration 204 to a stationary configuration 202.

[0021] 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example electrical energy generation system 300 of the present disclosure disposed within a housing that may be installed as part of a commercial or industrial control switch according to some embodiments described herein. The energy generator actuation component 100 may be disposed within other similar components. As shown in the cross-sectional view, the control switch housing 302 of the example electrical energy generation system 300 may include an actuator element 304 that is laterally movable. As a result of this lateral movement, the actuator element 304 may contact extensions 306 protruding from two different portions of the outer surface of the primary magnet 112, causing the primary magnet 112 to rotate from the stationary configuration 202 to the displaced configuration 204. As described above, the displaced configuration 204 may be orthogonal to the stationary configuration 202.

[0022] In some embodiments, as described above, the primary magnet 112 can be oriented approximately 180° relative to the stationary configuration. In some embodiments, the primary magnet 112 can be released from the displaced configuration 204 and initiate a generating event by a magnetic force operating to drive the primary magnet 112 to a stationary (e.g., equilibrium) configuration. During this movement, vibrations can be generated. As described above, such movement can generate electromagnetic induction in the multiple wire windings 114, corresponding to electrical energy utilized to power various devices. Such operation of the energy generating device operating component 100 is based on a transient energy generating event that requires the actuator element 304 to initiate movement of the primary magnet 112 to generate electromagnetic induction. Such transient energy generating events may not be suitable for all purposes and applications, such as, for example, water sensor-based applications. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the primary magnet 112 can be operated to move from the displaced configuration to the stationary configuration with reduced vibrations when a load above a certain threshold is applied to the coil.

[0023] FIG. 4A illustrates an example embodiment of an electrical energy generation system 400 of the present disclosure, according to some aspects described herein. In particular, as shown in FIG. 4A , the example embodiment of the electrical energy generation system 400 can include a plastic housing (e.g., a movable cover) in which the energy generator operating component 100 is removably mounted. A portion of the movable cover 402 can be operated to move upward, as shown in FIG. 4A . In some aspects, an inner portion of the movable cover 402 can include at least one engagement member or multiple engagement members 404. In some aspects, these protrusions can have the shape of a curved portion that engages with a particular portion of the primary magnet 112.

[0024] In some aspects, contrary to the mechanically actuated temporary generator described above with respect to FIG. 3 , in the electrical energy generation system 400 of the present disclosure, the primary magnet 112 can be initially pre-positioned in an active configuration. In particular, the primary magnet 112 can be pre-positioned and held in that configuration until a trip mechanism of the electrical energy generation system 400 acts on the primary magnet 112 to initiate movement of the primary magnet 112 from the displaced configuration to the stationary configuration. Furthermore, after such orientation, the curved portion and end of the engagement member 404 can engage or couple with an outer surface of the primary magnet 112 to maintain the orientation of the primary magnet 112 in a particular configuration, such as the displaced configuration 204. Further, aspects and operation of the electrical energy generation system 400 are described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4B , 4C , and 5 .

[0025] 4B illustrates the inclusion of a non-rigid material 406 disposed on the exterior surface of the electrical energy generating system 400 of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments described herein. As shown in FIG. 4B, the non-rigid material 406, which may be formed of paper, dissolvable plastic, wax, or other similar material, may be wrapped around the periphery of the front of the movable cover 402.

[0026] 4C shows a close-up view of an extension included as part of the movable cover 402 of the electrical energy generating system 400 of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments described herein. In particular, as shown in the close-up view, the extension 410 can correspond to a stress concentrator designed to protrude from the bottom of the movable cover 402 such that the extension is positioned in direct contact with the non-rigid material 406. In some embodiments, the shape and dimensions of the stress concentrator can vary. For example, the stress concentrator can correspond to a sharp corner, a groove, a notch, or the like.

[0027] 5 illustrates an example application of the electric energy generation system 400 according to some embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, the electric energy generation system 400 can be utilized as part of a water sensor that can be placed in various parts of a residential or commercial facility to detect rising water levels above a certain threshold. In particular, as shown in FIG. 5 , water 502 can rise to a certain threshold height and contact the non-rigid material 406 wrapped around the front periphery of the electric energy generation system 400 at stress concentration contact points. Upon contact with the water 502, the non-rigid material 406 begins to deteriorate and dissolve, which can cause movement of a portion of the movable cover 402.

[0028] In particular, dissolution of the non-rigid material 406 can cause movement of a portion of the movable cover 402 (e.g., a spring-loaded cover) from a closed configuration 504 to an open configuration 506, for example, using one or more springs disposed in spring openings 510 disposed in the electrical energy generating system 400. As a result of this movement, the plurality of engagement members 404 can disengage from the extensions 306 disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet 112, thereby allowing the primary magnet 112 to angularly move from the displaced configuration 204 (shown in FIG. 2 ) to the stationary configuration 202 (also shown in FIG. 2 ). During disengagement, the inner portions of the engagement members 404 can no longer maintain contact with the outer portions of the extensions 306 (i.e., the star-shaped components on the outer surface of the primary magnet 112). As a result, the magnetic field or magnetic poles of the secondary magnet 108 can act against the orientation of the primary magnet 112, causing the primary magnet to angularly move toward an orientation orthogonal to the displaced configuration 204.

[0029] Additionally, during angular movement back to the stationary configuration 202 corresponding to a generation event, the primary magnet 112 may, for example, oscillate (depending on the load) relative to the longitudinal axis 107 before reaching the stationary configuration 202. The degree or extent of the oscillation is load dependent. As discussed above, such angular movement results in the generation of electromagnetic induction or electrical energy, which may be utilized to power various devices, e.g., radio frequency transmitters, receiver-transmitters, etc.

[0030] 6A-6E illustrate different orientations of an example resettable trip mechanism-based device 600 that, in some embodiments, can incorporate an electrical energy generating device as described herein. As shown, such a device includes a dissolvable film trigger 602. For example, the film trigger 602 may be a non-rigid material, such as paper or wax, configured to melt upon exposure to heat and / or water. As shown in FIG. 6A, the film trigger 602 is attached to a base 601a at a first end configured to hold an electrical energy generating device 604 and to a movable portion 601b at a second end. The movable portion 601b is pivotally attached to the base 601a at a pivot point 605 and configured to rotate about the pivot point 605 relative to the base 601a when the film trigger 602 melts, as described in further detail below.

[0031] 6A, the example resettable trip mechanism based device 600 can be set to an inactive configuration with the film trigger 602 intact and the film trigger 602 maintaining the moving portion 601b of the example resettable trip mechanism based device 600 in the first preloaded position shown in FIG. 6A. In this configuration, an engagement member 601c formed on and protruding from the moving portion 601b is positioned about an axis point 603 below a corresponding engagement member 604b coupled to a primary rotor magnet 604a of the electrical energy generating device 604. In this exemplary embodiment, the primary rotor magnet 604a is configured to rotate about an axis extending through the axis point 603. As shown in FIG. 6B, when film trigger 602 melts (as shown in FIG. 6B), movable portion 601b of example resettable trip mechanism based device 600 can pivot upward about pivot point 605 and move to a second, released configuration (shown in FIG. 6C) in which movable portion 601b pivots about pivot point 605. When this occurs, engagement member 601c moves along an arcuate path such that one or more engagement members 601c contact one or more engagement members 604b coupled to one or more primary rotor magnets 604a, resulting in rotational movement of primary rotor magnets 604a, thereby generating energy in accordance with one or more example energy generation methods described elsewhere herein.

[0032] In some embodiments, the energy required to pivot movable portion 601b about pivot point 605 to the configuration shown in Figure 6C can be provided by a torsion flexure (not shown) coupling movable portion 601b to base 601a at pivot point 605. The torsion flexure is configured to store potential energy when example resettable trip mechanism based device 600 is initially set to the first configuration shown in Figure 6A and is configured to function as a torsion spring to provide a pivotal force to movable portion 601b in direction F, creating tension in film trigger 602. When film trigger 602 melts, movable portion 601b is no longer constrained from pivotal movement about pivot point 605, and the potential energy stored in the torsion flexure is converted to kinetic energy in a manner that moves movable portion 601b to the second configuration shown in Figure 6C, at which point the torsion flexure can reach equilibrium.

[0033] 6D and 6E illustrate an example device 650 including an energy generating device (including a preloaded rotor magnet) integrated into a trip device. In some embodiments, the example device 650 can be formed as a single molded piece. In some embodiments, the example device 650 can include a flexure, such as the torsion flexure described above with respect to FIGS. 6A-6C, that functions as a spring to release the rotor lock arm 652. In some embodiments, the rotor lock arm 652 can be maintained in position by interlocking teeth disposed on the rotor 654. In some embodiments, the rotor magnet can be wound via an external magnet or a mechanical winding mechanism to orient the rotor 654 in a particular out-of-balance position, such as that shown in FIG. 6D. In some embodiments, trip strip elements 656 (e.g., paper) can be disposed in various portions of the example device 650 to maintain the rotor lock arm 652 in the position shown in FIG. 6D. Thereafter, as described above, once trip strip element 656 melts, rotor lock arm 652 can disengage from rotor lock arm 652 and pivot upward as shown in FIG. 6E , causing the preloaded rotor to rotate in the direction of arrow R, thereby generating energy according to one or more exemplary energy generation methods described elsewhere herein.

[0034] 7A-7B illustrate variations of the devices shown in FIGS. 6A and 6F. As shown, FIG. 7A illustrates an example device with a film that operates in compression instead of tension. In particular, with respect to example device 700, a flexure is utilized to provide the input for energy generation. With respect to example device 702, note that, unlike a flexure, this device includes the use of a rotor magnet that is preloaded or prepositioned out of equilibrium to store energy in the magnetic field. In some embodiments, the flexure energy is utilized to release rotor lock arm 704, thereby rotating the rotor for energy generation.

[0035] 8A-8C illustrate another example of a trip-actuated device. In some embodiments, the example trip actuator 800 includes a flexure 802, an actuation arm 804, and a film trip element 806. Note that the film trip element 806 maintains or holds the flexure in place until the film contained within the film trip element 806 dissolves or decomposes. As a result, the flexure energy is released, allowing the actuation arm 804 to move to a different position, as shown in FIG. 8C. Note that the flexure provides all of the energy for actuation. In some embodiments, the example trip actuator 800 includes a preloaded spring. Note that in some embodiments, a 4-pound force is required to actuate the example trip actuator 800. Additionally, in some embodiments, a coil spring can be included as part of the trip actuator 800, i.e., on an actuation button located on the energy generating device 812 of the trip actuator 800, to preload and remove the force required for actuation. In some embodiments, the amount of force can be adjusted. In some embodiments, a lower actuation force can allow for the design of a smaller flexure, thereby reducing the torque to actuate the example trip actuator 800. In some embodiments, a highly sensitive trigger mechanism can also be utilized, such as, for example, a shock sensor-based trigger mechanism.

[0036] 9A-9D illustrate an enclosure 900 in which the electrical energy generation system 400 of the present disclosure is disposed, according to one or more embodiments described and illustrated herein. Note that all aspects of the electrical energy generation system 400 and energy generator operating components 100 described in the present disclosure can be disposed within the enclosure 900.

[0037] FIG. 9A illustrates a housing 900 with a latch 902 oriented in a first configuration. When the latch 902 is in this configuration, the electrical energy generation system 400 can be in an unlocked configuration within the housing 900. The electrical energy generation system 400 includes a primary magnet 112 that can be oriented to a stationary configuration after initiation of a trigger mechanism. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 5 , when the primary magnet 112 is in this configuration, magnetic potential energy can be said to be converted into kinetic energy, which can then be utilized to power a device. From this stationary or post-trigger configuration, a force must be applied to the primary magnet 112 to again inject magnetic potential energy into the primary magnet 112 (and therefore the electrical energy generation system 400) for future initiation of a trigger mechanism.

[0038] 9B shows a layout of the internal components of the housing 900 when the latch 902 is in the first configuration, as shown in FIG. 9A. In particular, when the latch 902 is oriented in the first configuration, in some embodiments, the part 904 associated with the latch 902 is positioned a particular distance away from the primary magnet 112 such that the part 904 can be disengaged or disconnected from at least a portion of the primary magnet 112. In some embodiments, when the latch 902 is oriented in the first configuration, the primary magnet 112 is positioned in a static or stationary configuration, as shown in FIG. 2A and described herein.

[0039] 9C illustrates the housing 900 with the latch 902 in a second configuration. When the latch 902 is in the second configuration, the electrical energy generating system 400 can be in a locked configuration within the housing 900. As described above, when the primary magnet 112 is oriented from the stationary configuration to the displaced configuration, magnetic potential energy can be injected into the primary magnet 112. Subsequently, upon activation of a trigger mechanism, such as by melting a non-rigid material, the primary magnet 112 is released from the displaced configuration and moves at an angle toward the stationary configuration, thereby converting the magnetic potential energy into kinetic energy for use in powering various devices. Note that the displaced configuration corresponds to the primary magnet being oriented in a preset or active state, and the stationary configuration corresponds to the primary magnet being oriented in a post-trigger or inactive state.

[0040] 9D shows another arrangement of the internal components of the housing 900 when the latch 902 is in the second configuration, as shown in FIG. 9C. In particular, when the latch 902 is oriented in the second configuration, the part 904 can engage or contact at least a portion of the primary magnet 112.

[0041] 10A-10C illustrate the use of a magnetic coupling system to reset internal components of an electrical energy generating system 400, according to one or more embodiments described and illustrated herein. In particular, FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate a sequence of motions of a primary magnet 112 moving from a stationary configuration to a displaced configuration. In the displaced configuration, the magnetic field of the primary magnet 112 is misaligned or unbalanced relative to a plurality of secondary magnets, i.e., a first set 109 and a second set 111 of secondary magnets 108, as shown in FIG. 1 . From this configuration, upon initiation of a triggering mechanism, the magnetic fields of the primary magnet 112 and the secondary magnets 108 move toward equilibrium, resulting in the primary magnet 112 moving from the displaced configuration (active or preset state) to a stationary configuration (post-trigger or inactive state). Once the primary magnet 112 has completed its transition to the stationary configuration, the magnetic fields of the primary magnet and the secondary magnets may be in a balanced or aligned state.

[0042] 10A illustrates a housing 900 and a tray 1000 that operates in conjunction with the housing 900 to reset the positioning of at least some internal components of the electrical energy generating system 400 disposed within the housing 900. In some embodiments, a plurality of magnets (not shown) can be removably attached to a surface of the tray 1000 (e.g., the bottom surface of the tray 1000). Then, in some embodiments, the housing 900 can be moved from one side of the upper surface of the tray 1000 to the other side of the upper surface of the tray 1000 to control the movement of the primary magnets 112 disposed within the housing 900. FIG. 10A illustrates the housing 900 on one side of the tray 1000.

[0043] 10B shows the housing 900 in proximity to the top surface of the tray 1000. In some embodiments, when the housing 900 is in such proximity to the top surface of the tray 1000, the primary magnet 112 can begin to move from a rest position (an inactive or triggered state) to a displacement position (an active or preset state). When the housing 900 is in such proximity to the top surface of the tray 1000, the magnetic fields of the multiple magnets attached to the surface of the tray 1000 also come into proximity with the magnetic fields of the primary magnet 112 and the secondary magnet 108, resulting in the magnetic field of the primary magnet 112 becoming misaligned with respect to the secondary magnet 108. This misalignment causes the primary magnet 112 to move from the rest position (a triggered or inactive state) to the displacement position (a preset or active state).

[0044] 10C shows the housing 900 completing its movement relative to the top surface of the tray 1000, resulting in the primary magnet 112 reaching a displaced (active or preset) position from its initial rest position, which may correspond to an orientation of approximately 180° relative to the rest position.

[0045] 11A-11C show views of the internal components of the housing 900 corresponding to each of the orientations of the housing 900 relative to the tray 1000 shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C. FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate the movement of the primary magnet 112 from a stationary orientation to a displaced orientation as a result of the changing proximity of the housing 900 relative to a magnet (e.g., tray magnet 1103) adhered to the bottom surface of the tray 1000. Specifically, as the housing 900 moves substantially horizontally from the first orientation 1100 to the second orientation 1102 to the third orientation 1104, the magnetic field of the tray magnet 1103 interacts with the magnetic fields of the primary magnet 112 and the secondary magnet 108 such that the magnetic field of the primary magnet 112 can become misaligned with respect to the secondary magnet 108. As a result, the primary magnet 112 is moved from a rest configuration (a triggered or inactive state as shown in FIG. 11A), to an orthogonal configuration as shown in FIG. 11B, to a displaced configuration (a preset or active state as shown in FIG. 11B).

[0046] Figure 11A shows a first view of the internal components of the housing 900 when the housing 900 is in a first position 1100 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in Figure 10A. Specifically, when the housing 900 is in the first position 1100 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in Figure 10A, the primary magnet 112 remains in an inactive orientation 1106 (static configuration).

[0047] Figure 11B shows a second view of the internal components of the housing 900 when the housing 900 is in the second position 1102 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in Figure 10B. Specifically, when the housing 900 is in the second position 1102 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in Figure 10B, the primary magnet 112 moves from an inactive orientation 1106 to an orientation that is substantially orthogonal to the inactive orientation 1106 (i.e., a substantially orthogonal orientation 1108).

[0048] 11C shows a third view of the internal components of the housing 900 when the housing 900 is in a third position 1104 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in FIG. 10C. Specifically, when the housing 900 is in the third position 1104 relative to the tray 1000 as shown in FIG. 10C, the primary magnet 112 can move from a substantially orthogonal orientation 1108 to an active orientation 1110 (displaced configuration).

[0049] Further non-limiting aspects or embodiments are illustrated in the following numbered examples.

[0050] Example 1: An electric energy generation system comprising: a movable cover including a plurality of engaging members; and an energy generator working component releasably disposed on the movable cover; and a non-rigid material wound along a portion of an outer surface of the movable cover, wherein the energy generator working component comprises: a housing including a central opening in the housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on multiple portions of the outer surface of the housing, each protrusion including an additional opening; a primary magnet disposed in the central opening of the housing; a plurality of secondary magnets, each secondary magnet disposed in a respective one of the additional openings, the primary magnet being maintained in a first configuration relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by the plurality of engaging members; and a plurality of windings of wire wound along the outer surface of the housing, wherein the primary magnet moves from the first configuration to a second configuration in response to a change in the non-rigid material.

[0051] Example 2: The electrical energy generating system of example 1, wherein the wire windings are formed of copper.

[0052] Example 3: The electrical energy generating system of example 1, wherein the non-rigid material is paper and the change in the non-rigid material corresponds to dissolving the non-rigid material.

[0053] Example 4: The electrical energy generating system of example 1, wherein the non-rigid material is formed of a dissolvable plastic.

[0054] Example 5: The electrical energy generating system of example 1, wherein the second arrangement is orthogonal to the first arrangement.

[0055] Example 6: The electrical energy generating system of Example 1, wherein the movable cover includes a protrusion that contacts a non-rigid material, and the non-rigid material can be wrapped along a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover.

[0056] Example 7: The electrical energy generation system of Example 1, wherein the primary magnet is maintained in the first configuration relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by a plurality of engagement members that couple to a plurality of extensions disposed on an outer surface of the primary magnet.

[0057] Example 8: The electrical energy generation system described in Example 7, wherein in the second configuration, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover disengage from the plurality of extensions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet.

[0058] Example 9: The electrical energy generation system of Example 8, wherein the movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration in response to a change in the non-rigid material comprises angular movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0059] Example 10: The electrical energy generation system of Example 9, wherein the angular movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration comprises oscillation of the primary magnet about a longitudinal axis.

[0060] Example 11: The electrical energy generation system described in Example 10, wherein in the second position, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover disengage from the plurality of extensions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet to enable angular movement of the primary magnet from the first position to the second position.

[0061] Example 12: The electrical energy generation system of Example 11, wherein the plurality of secondary magnets are positioned opposite the primary magnet.

[0062] Example 13: The electrical energy generation system of Example 12, wherein one magnetic pole of the plurality of secondary magnets faces toward the primary magnet, and an additional magnetic pole of the plurality of secondary magnets faces toward the primary magnet.

[0063] Example 14: The electrical energy generating system of Example 13, wherein the polarity of the magnetic pole is opposite to the polarity of the additional magnetic pole.

[0064] Example 15: The electrical energy generation system of Example 14, wherein the primary magnet is cylindrical and the movable cover is made of metal.

[0065] Example 16: An electric energy generating device comprising: a movable cover including a plurality of engaging members; and an energy generating device working component removably disposed on the movable cover; and a non-rigid material wound along a portion of an outer surface of the movable cover, wherein the energy generating device working component comprises: a housing including a central opening in the housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on multiple portions of the outer surface of the housing, each protrusion including an additional opening; a primary magnet disposed in the central opening of the housing; a plurality of secondary magnets, each secondary magnet disposed in one of the additional openings, the primary magnet being maintained in a first configuration relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by the plurality of engaging members; and a plurality of windings of wire wound along the outer surface of the housing, wherein the primary magnet angularly moves from the first configuration to a second configuration in response to a change in the non-rigid material, the angle comprising oscillation of the primary magnet relative to a longitudinal axis.

[0066] Example 17: An electrical energy generating device as described in Example 16, wherein the non-rigid material is paper, the change in the non-rigid material corresponds to dissolving the non-rigid material, and the non-rigid material is formed of a meltable plastic or wax.

[0067] Example 18: The electrical energy generating device of Example 16, wherein the second arrangement is orthogonal to the first arrangement.

[0068] Example 19: A system comprising a housing containing at least one primary magnet, a tray, and at least one secondary magnet disposed on a surface of the tray, wherein the primary magnet moves from a first position to a second position in response to movement of the housing relative to the tray.

[0069] Example 20: The system of Example 19, wherein the first configuration corresponds to a stationary configuration and the second configuration is oriented approximately 180° relative to the first configuration.

Claims

1. a movable cover including a plurality of engagement members and an energy generating device actuating component releasably disposed on the movable cover; a non-rigid material wrapped along a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover; The energy generating device operating components include: a housing including a central opening in the housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on a plurality of portions of an outer surface of the housing, each protrusion including an additional opening; a primary magnet disposed in a central opening of the housing; a plurality of secondary magnets, each of the plurality of secondary magnets disposed in a respective one of the additional openings, the primary magnet being maintained in a first orientation relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by the plurality of engagement members; a plurality of windings of wire wound along an outer surface of the housing; the primary magnet moves from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to a change in non-rigid material; An electrical energy generation system comprising:

2. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the wire windings are formed of copper.

3. The electrical energy generation system of claim 1 , wherein the non-rigid material is paper and the change in the non-rigid material corresponds to dissolving the non-rigid material.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the non-rigid material is formed of a dissolvable plastic.

5. The electrical energy generating system of claim 1 , wherein the second arrangement is orthogonal to the first arrangement.

6. the movable cover includes a protrusion that contacts the non-rigid material; The system of claim 1 , wherein the non-rigid material is capable of being wrapped along a portion of an outer surface of the movable cover.

7. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the primary magnet is maintained in the first orientation relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by a plurality of engagement members that couple to a plurality of extensions disposed on an outer surface of the primary magnet.

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein in the second position, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover are disengaged from the plurality of extensions disposed on the outer surface of the primary magnet.

9. 9. The electrical energy generation system of claim 8, wherein the movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration in response to a change in the non-rigid material comprises angular movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein angular movement of the primary magnet from the first configuration to the second configuration comprises oscillation of the primary magnet about a longitudinal axis.

11. 11. The electrical energy generation system of claim 10, wherein in the second position, the plurality of engagement members of the movable cover disengage from the plurality of extensions disposed on an outer surface of the primary magnet to enable angular movement of the primary magnet from the first position to the second position.

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of secondary magnets are positioned opposite the primary magnet.

13. The magnetic pole of one of the plurality of secondary magnets faces the primary magnet, and The system of claim 12 , wherein additional poles of the plurality of secondary magnets are oriented toward the primary magnet.

14. The system of claim 13 , wherein the polarity of the magnetic pole is opposite to the polarity of the additional magnetic pole.

15. The system of claim 14 , wherein the primary magnet is cylindrical and the movable cover is made of metal.

16. a movable cover including a plurality of engagement members and an energy generating device actuating component releasably disposed on the movable cover; a non-rigid material wrapped along a portion of the outer surface of the movable cover; The energy generating device operating components include: a housing including a central opening in the housing and a plurality of protrusions disposed on a plurality of portions of an outer surface of the housing, each protrusion including an additional opening; a primary magnet disposed in a central opening of the housing; a plurality of secondary magnets, each of the plurality of secondary magnets disposed in a respective one of the additional openings, the primary magnet being maintained in a first orientation relative to the plurality of secondary magnets by the plurality of engagement members; a plurality of windings of wire wound along an outer surface of the housing; the primary magnet undergoes angular movement from the first configuration to the second configuration in response to a change in non-rigid material; the angle includes an oscillation of the primary magnet relative to its longitudinal axis; An electrical energy generating device comprising:

17. the non-rigid material is paper, and the change in the non-rigid material corresponds to dissolving the non-rigid material; and 17. The device of claim 16, wherein the non-rigid material is formed from a meltable plastic or wax.

18. 17. The electrical energy generating device of claim 16, wherein the second arrangement is orthogonal to the first arrangement.

19. a housing containing at least one primary magnet; One tray and at least one secondary magnet disposed on a surface of the tray; the primary magnet moves from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to movement of the housing relative to the tray; A system characterized by:

20. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the first configuration corresponds to a stationary configuration and the second configuration is oriented approximately 180 degrees relative to the first configuration.

Images