Shot peening flow control valve and usage method

Abstract

The present disclosure describes a shot peening flow control valve for regulating a flow of ferromagnetic media. The shot peening flow control valve comprises a body enclosing a passage for transporting ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passage to a second end of the passage, and at least one core set disposed between the first end and the second end. The at least one core set comprises at least one magnetic unit, the at least one magnetic unit operable to provide a magnetic field to the passage. The at least one magnetic unit can project or provide a magnetic field to the passage to regulate, control or stop the flow of the ferromagnetic media. Thus, the shot peening flow control valve facilitates effective control of the ferromagnetic media during the shot peening process.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a shot peening flow control valve that can be used in a shot peening apparatus or shot blasting machine. [Background technology]

[0002] In most applications, metals are cast or forged into the desired shape after being heated to make them malleable. Cold working processes are used to treat the surface of metal parts to prevent fatigue and stress corrosion damage, thereby extending their service life. This mechanical stress on the metal causes permanent changes to the metal's crystalline structure, increasing its strength.

[0003] Shot peening is a cold working process used to impart compressive residual stresses to the surface of a component to modify its mechanical properties. The shot peening process is used to increase the component's strength and reduce its stress profile.

[0004] Shot peening uses small balls in accelerated motion to blast the surface of a metal part to achieve a surface finish. The balls act like round-headed hammers, striking the surface in nests and creating compressive stresses under the multiple overlapping nests. As the pellets continuously impact the metal part, multiple overlapping depressions are created across the treated surface.

[0005] Surface compressive stresses strengthen metal parts and ensure that surface-treated metal parts are resistant to fatigue, corrosion, cracking, wear, and surface cavitation erosion. Commonly used media (i.e., medium) or mediums (i.e., media) include steel beads, ceramic beads, and glass beads. Shot peening is a cost-effective method of extending the life of metal parts by creating residual compressive stresses in the surface.

[0006] Shot peening is also used to harden metal parts to improve wear resistance, correct deformations, and achieve surface structure optimization. Treated metal parts achieve high wear and fatigue resistance with a lighter structure. However, to ensure accuracy, reliability, and repeatability, the flow of media (i.e., medium) used in the shot peening process must be carefully controlled. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] For the foregoing reasons, there exists a need in the art to provide a control valve and method for regulating media flow to improve metal part properties, reduce operating costs, and improve the reliability of the shot peening process. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present disclosure overcomes one or more of the shortcomings of the prior art and provides additional advantages that are discussed throughout this disclosure. Other aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[0009] In one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a shot peening flow control valve for regulating the flow of ferromagnetic media is disclosed. The ferromagnetic media includes a shot medium or shot media. The shot peening flow control valve includes a body surrounding a passage for transporting the ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passage to a second end of the passage, and at least one core set disposed between the first end and the second end. The at least one core set includes at least one magnetic unit, and the at least one magnetic unit is operable to provide a magnetic field to the passage.

[0010] The passageway may be located inside a shot peening or shot blasting machine. The passageway may be a blast tunnel, a channel, or a tube. A first end of the passageway may be an inlet of a shot peening flow control valve, and a second end of the passageway may be an outlet of the shot peening flow control valve. At least one core set may be disposed within or near the passageway. At least one magnetic unit of the at least one core set may project or provide a magnetic field into the passageway to regulate, control, or stop the flow of ferromagnetic media. Thus, the shot peening flow control valve facilitates effective control of the ferromagnetic media during the shot peening process.

[0011] In another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, at least one core set includes a housing for enclosing at least one magnetic unit. The housing includes a core set upper portion for shielding the at least one magnetic unit from ferromagnetic media coming from the first end to the second end, and first and second core set side covers respectively disposed on both sides of the at least one magnetic unit, where at least one of the first and second core set side covers is disposed on a magnetic pole of the at least one magnetic unit to shield the magnetic pole and provide a magnetic field of the magnetic pole to the passage. The first and second core set side covers may be plates.

[0012] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one core set is positioned at an intermediate position of the passageway when dividing the passageway into a first passageway and a second passageway, and the at least one core set is positioned at a center or central position of the passageway or between both sides to transport ferromagnetic media near both poles of the at least one magnetic unit.

[0013] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one magnetic unit includes a permanent magnet and a first electromagnet. The permanent magnet is operable to generate a magnetic field in the passageway to independently stop the flow of ferromagnetic media as needed without activating the electromagnet. A core of the first electromagnet is connected to a first end of the permanent magnet. The core of the first electromagnet is operable to cancel or reinforce the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

[0014] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one magnetic unit further comprises a second electromagnet, the core of the second electromagnet being connected to the second end of the permanent magnet, the core of the second electromagnet being operable to cancel or reinforce the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

[0015] The cores of the first and second electromagnets are aligned with the permanent magnet such that the first electromagnet, the permanent magnet, and the second electromagnet can each individually or in combination form a magnetic field.

[0016] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic unit further includes a control unit connected to both the first and second electromagnets for adjusting the magnetic fields of the first and second electromagnets, wherein adjusting the magnetic fields includes counteracting the magnetism of the passageway to release the flow of the ferromagnetic media.

[0017] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the at least one core set includes a magnetic field conductor material (also known as an iron material or a material with low magnetic flux resistance) for conducting a magnetic field around the at least one core set, which may be a component of the at least one core set that conducts a magnetic field around a permanent magnet, a first electromagnet, or a second electromagnet.

[0018] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one core set comprises a first core set and a second core set that are spaced apart, the first core set and the second core set being operable to cooperate. The first core set and the second core set can be arranged in series or in parallel and can operate in conjunction, e.g., sequentially or simultaneously.

[0019] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the first core set and the second core set are arranged in series with each other such that the first core set and the second core set are different distances from the first end or the second end or both ends.

[0020] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the first core set and the second core set are arranged side by side such that the first core set and the second core set are approximately the same distance from the first end or the second end or both ends.

[0021] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve further includes a third core set disposed in series with the first core set and the second core set such that the third core set is at a substantially different distance from the first end or the second end or both ends of either the first core set and / or the second core set.

[0022] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a shot peening flow control valve for regulating the flow of ferromagnetic media is provided. The shot peening flow control valve includes: a body defining a passage for transporting ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passage to a second end of the passage; at least one core layer disposed between the first end and the second end and including at least one core line, the at least one core layer operable to provide a magnetic field to the passage; and a cover surrounding the at least one core layer. The cover includes an inlet flange for transporting the ferromagnetic media from the first end, first and second side frames disposed on opposite sides of the at least one core layer, respectively, first and second central frames disposed on the front and rear ends of the at least one core layer, and a base diversion block disposed below the at least one core layer, the first and second side frames of the cover, and the first and second central frames. The base diversion block can function as a flow sensor fixture.

[0023] The passageway may be inside a shot peening or shot blasting machine. The passageway may be a blast tunnel, channel, or tube. A first end of the passageway may be an inlet of a shot peening flow control valve, and a second end of the passageway may be an outlet of the shot peening flow control valve.

[0024] At least one core layer is disposed within or adjacent to the passageway such that the at least one core layer divides the passageway between an inlet and an outlet into multiple passageways. The at least one core layer can project or provide a magnetic field into the passageway to regulate, control, or stop the flow of ferromagnetic media. Thus, the shot peening flow control valve facilitates effective control of the ferromagnetic media during the shot peening process.

[0025] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, at least one core line comprises a plurality of core sets connected to one another, each one of the plurality of core sets being separated from the other core sets by a core set splitter, and a plurality of shafts for connecting the plurality of core sets and the core set splitter together, the plurality of shafts being usable to connect at least one core line of at least one core layer to the first and second central frames at their front and rear ends, respectively, so as to prevent ferromagnetic media from passing through them from their front and rear ends.

[0026] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve further includes a central extension guide for connecting one core line to another core line in a parallel configuration. The central extension guide includes two triangular protrusions on both sides of the central extension guide for at least one of the multiple core sets located on both sides of the central extension guide. The two triangular protrusions face the direction of the single slot, and the central extension guide divides the passage between the two core lines into two sub-passages. The two triangular protrusions face the direction of the single slot to restrict the flow of ferromagnetic media through the slot.

[0027] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve further includes a first side extension guide and a second side extension guide, respectively, disposed on opposite sides of the at least one core layer, the first side extension guide and the second side extension guide including two triangular protrusions on an inner surface of at least one of the plurality of core sets, the first side extension guide and the second side extension guide forming first and second outer passages together with the first and second side frames, respectively, the two triangular protrusions facing each other such that a flow of ferromagnetic media is directed through the first and second outer passages.

[0028] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the multiple core sets includes a magnetic unit operable to provide a magnetic field to the passageway and a housing for enclosing the magnetic unit. The housing includes a core set upper portion that shields the magnetic unit from ferromagnetic media coming from the first end, and first and second core set side covers disposed on both sides of the magnetic unit. At least one of the first and second core set side covers is disposed on a magnetic pole of the magnetic unit to shield the magnetic pole and provide the magnetic field of the magnetic pole to the passageway. The first and second core set side covers may be plates.

[0029] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic unit includes a permanent magnet and a first electromagnet, the core of the first electromagnet being connected to a first end of the permanent magnet, the permanent magnet being operable to generate a magnetic field in the passageway to independently stop the flow of ferromagnetic media as needed without activation of the electromagnet.

[0030] The core of the first electromagnet is connected to the first end of the permanent magnet, the core of the first electromagnet being operable to cancel or reinforce the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

[0031] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic unit further comprises a second electromagnet, the core of the second electromagnet being connected to the second end of the permanent magnet. The core of the second electromagnet is operable to cancel or reinforce the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

[0032] The cores of the first and second electromagnets are aligned with the permanent magnet such that the first electromagnet, the permanent magnet, and the second electromagnet can each individually or in combination form a magnetic field.

[0033] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve further includes a central control unit and a plurality of control units electrically connected to the central control unit. The control units are connected to both the first and second electromagnets of the respective magnets to adjust the magnetic fields of the first and second electromagnets. The plurality of control units can be controlled through the central control unit. Adjusting the magnetic fields includes counteracting the magnetism of the passage to release the flow of ferromagnetic media.

[0034] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a shot peening machine for projecting ferromagnetic media onto a surface of at least one component is disclosed. The shot peening machine includes a chamber for storing ferromagnetic media, a passageway for transporting the ferromagnetic media onto the surface of the at least one component, and a shot peening flow control valve having a body surrounding the passageway for transporting the ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passageway to a second end of the passageway. The at least one component is disposed at the second end of the passageway. The shot peening machine further includes at least one core set disposed between the first end and the second end, the at least one core set including at least one magnetic unit operable to provide a magnetic field to the passageway and adjust the projection velocity of the ferromagnetic media onto the surface of the at least one component.

[0035] The passageway may be located inside the shot peening or shot blasting machine. The passageway may be a blast tunnel, channel, or tube. A first end of the passageway may be an inlet of a shot peening flow control valve, and a second end of the passageway may be an outlet of the shot peening flow control valve. At least one core set may be disposed within or near the passageway. At least one magnetic unit of the at least one core set may automatically project or provide a magnetic field into the passageway to adjust, control, or stop the flow of ferromagnetic media. Therefore, the shot peening or shot blasting machine's shot peening flow control valve facilitates effective control of ferromagnetic media during the shot peening process.

[0036] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one magnetic unit comprises a permanent magnet and a first electromagnet, a core of the first electromagnet connected to a first end of the permanent magnet.

[0037] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one magnetic unit further comprises a second electromagnet, the core of the second electromagnet being connected to the second end of the permanent magnet.

[0038] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the magnetic unit further comprises a control unit connected to both the first and second electromagnets for adjusting the magnetic fields of the first and second electromagnets.

[0039] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one core set comprises a first core set and a second core set spaced apart, the first core set and the second core set operable to cooperate.

[0040] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a method of regulating a flow of ferromagnetic media is disclosed, the method including providing a magnetic field to a passageway, transporting ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passageway to a second end of the passageway, and providing the magnetic field to the passageway to control the flow of the ferromagnetic media between the first end and the second end.

[0041] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, providing a magnetic field to the passageway includes generating a magnetic field by a permanent magnet of at least one magnetic unit to generate a magnetic field in the passageway or suspending the ferromagnetic media by the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

[0042] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, providing the magnetic field includes adjusting the magnetic field of the first electromagnet and / or the second electromagnet.

[0043] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes detecting the field strength of the magnetic field with a magnetometer.

[0044] In yet another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the method further includes measuring a flow rate of the ferromagnetic media with a flow meter. The flow meter may be a media sensor. The measured flow rate of the ferromagnetic media is used as a closed-loop control shot peening flow control valve with a feedback control scheme.

[0045] Therefore, the above-mentioned shot peening control valve, shot peening machine, and method for adjusting the flow of ferromagnetic media facilitate effective control of ferromagnetic media in the passageway during the shot peening process, thereby improving the properties of metal parts, reducing operating costs, and improving the reliability of the shot peening process.

[0046] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the exemplary aspects and configurations described above, further aspects and configurations will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0047] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. Certain aspects of systems and / or methods according to aspects of the present subject matter will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a core set of a shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken along dashed line AA shown in FIG. 3 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a magnetic field distribution of a shot peening flow control valve in a closed state, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly view of an electromagnet in a shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A-1D illustrate assembled and exploded views of a core-set magnetization (CSM) setup or magnetic unit according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1A-1D show assembled and exploded views of a core set according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a core set along dashed line AA according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a core line setup including multiple core sets connected together, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 10 illustrates an extension guide connected to a core set, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]1 illustrates a core layer formed using multiple core lines, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a single core set shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is an assembly view of a single core set shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a single layer dual core line shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly diagram of a single layer dual core line shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a shot peening flow control valve along dashed line AA according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a single layer multi-core line shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly view of a single layer multi-core line shot peening flow control valve according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a multi-layer shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly view of a multi-layer shot peening flow control valve, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a control unit setup according to some aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 1 illustrates a flowchart of a method for adjusting a flow of ferromagnetic media according to some aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present subject matter. Similarly, it will be appreciated that flowcharts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudocode, and the like, may be substantially represented on a computer-readable medium and represent various processes that may be executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such a computer or processor is explicitly shown.

[0050] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect or implementation of the subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects.

[0051] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but rather that the disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0052] The terms "comprise(s)," "comprising," "include(s)," or other variations thereof, are intended to cover the non-exclusive inclusion that a setup, device, apparatus, system, or method that includes a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps, but may also include other components or steps that are not expressly listed or inherent to such setup, device, apparatus, system, or method. In other words, one or more elements in a device, system, or apparatus that begins with "comprises..." does not, absent further constraints, exclude the presence of other or additional elements in the system.

[0053] Phrases such as "at least one" and "one or more" may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the description.

[0054] In the following detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification and which show by way of example specific embodiments in which the present disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following description should not be construed in a limiting sense. In the following description, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the description with unnecessary detail.

[0055] The present disclosure describes a shot peening flow control valve for regulating the flow of ferromagnetic media. The ferromagnetic media includes shot media or shot media. The shot peening flow control valve includes a body surrounding a passage for transporting the ferromagnetic media from a first end of the passage to a second end of the passage, and at least one core set disposed between the first end and the second end. The at least one core set includes at least one magnetic unit, and the at least one magnetic unit is operable to provide a magnetic field to the passage.

[0056] Thus, the shot peening flow control valve of the present disclosure facilitates efficient control of ferromagnetic media flow to enhance metal component properties, reduce operating costs, and improve the reliability of the shot peening process.

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a shot peening flow control valve 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 100 may include a core set 130. The core set 130 includes at least one magnetic unit for providing a magnetic field. The at least one magnetic unit includes a permanent magnet 110 and an electromagnetic assembly 120. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 100 may include multiple core sets 130.

[0059] The at least one magnetic unit may be enclosed inside a housing 140. The housing 140 may include a core set top 126 for shielding the at least one magnetic unit 120 from ferromagnetic media coming into the at least one magnetic unit 120, and a first core set side cover 142 and a second core set side cover 144 disposed on either side of the at least one magnetic unit 120. The core set side covers 142 and 144 include cover plates aligned with the flow direction of the ferromagnetic media, and the cover plates are aligned at an angle with respect to the centerline of the passage or the flow direction of the ferromagnetic media or ferromagnetic media 102. The housing 140 further includes a core set bottom 128 for supporting the at least one magnetic unit. The core set side covers 142 and 144 with cover plates are connected to the core set top 126 and the core set bottom 128 using a dovetail-type connection. Epoxy material may be injected inside the housing 140 to form a single solid module.

[0060] However, the connection types between the core set top 126, the core set side covers 142 and 144, and the core set bottom 128 are not limited to dovetail type connections, and other connection types for forming an enclosed assembly are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] In one embodiment, the core set top 126 and the core set bottom 128 are constructed of a magnetic conductor material, a ferromagnetic material, or a ferrous material such as hardened steel. Therefore, the core set top 126 and the core set bottom 128 can retain the ferromagnetic media 102 when the shot peening flow control valve is in a closed state. In a non-limiting embodiment, the core set side covers 142 and 144 of the housing 140 and the core set fixture can be constructed of a non-ferromagnetic material, a non-magnetic material, or a non-ferrous material such as stainless steel. This prevents the ferromagnetic media 102 from accumulating in these areas during operation of the shot peening flow control valve or while the shot peening flow control valve is in an open state.

[0062] In one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 140 can optionally include a front cover 132 and a rear cover 134 to enclose the at least one magnetic unit 120 from the front and rear ends.

[0063] In one embodiment, the core set 130 can be positioned between the first end and the second end of the passage 280. The passage 280 can be inside a shot peening or shot blasting machine. The passage 280 can be a blast tunnel, a channel, or a tube. The first end of the passage 280 can be an inlet of a shot peening flow control valve, and the second end of the passage 280 can be an outlet of the shot peening flow control valve. The core set 130 can be positioned within or near the passage 280. In one non-limiting embodiment, the core set 130 is positioned at an intermediate position of the passage 280 when the passage 280 is divided into a first passage 284 and a second passage 288.

[0064] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve may include an inlet 200, an upper plate 190, a left guide 182, a right guide 184, a mass flow meter 230 with a media distributor 210, and a flow sensor 220 with a solenoid coil 222. The upper plate 190 is connected to the inlet 200 and the left and right guides 182, 184. The front and rear covers 132, 134 may also be connected to the left and right guides 182, 184. The media distributor 210 is disposed and connected to the bottom of the left and right guides 182, 184, the front and rear covers 132, 134 to form an enclosed assembly for disposing the core set 130 and housing 140.

[0065] In one embodiment, left guide 182 and right guide 184 can be constructed of a non-ferrous material such as plastic or 3D printed material, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, polyurethane, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or polylactic acid, etc. However, the materials used are not limited to the above examples, and other non-conductive materials are well within the scope of this disclosure.

[0066] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the electromagnetic assembly 120 includes a first electromagnet 600 and a second electromagnet 600 having hollow cores, an inductor coil 603 looped across each of the cores, and a ferrite isolator 602 inserted inside the hollow core of each electromagnet 600, as shown in FIG.

[0067] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the ferrite isolator 602 may be a single block. In another non-limiting embodiment, the ferrite isolator 602 may be replaced by multiple plates 601 stacked together and inserted inside the hollow core of each electromagnet.

[0068] In one non-limiting embodiment, thermally conductive tape can be wrapped around the first and second electromagnets. The thermally conductive tape and ferrite isolator 602 can be a high-temperature tape constructed of polyimide. However, the materials used are not limited to the above examples, and any other high-temperature tape is well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] The electromagnet core is made of a ferromagnetic material that allows magnetic flux to pass through it efficiently. Preferably, the electromagnet core is made of stacked thin metal sheets to reduce the effects of eddy currents and minimize their effects.

[0070] In one embodiment, the permanent magnet 110 may be disposed between the electromagnetic assembly formed by the first electromagnet and the second electromagnet such that the core of the first electromagnet is connected to a first end of the permanent magnet and the core of the second electromagnet is connected to a second end of the permanent magnet. The permanent magnet 110 may be configured to generate a magnetic field operable to generate a magnetic field in the passage 280 to independently stop the flow of ferromagnetic media near the housing 140 of the core set 130.

[0071] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 100 may also include a control unit 124. The control unit 124 is in communication with both the first and second electromagnets to adjust the magnetic fields of the first and second electromagnets. The control unit 124 may include a power supply assembly and is configured to control the current through each of the inductor coils to generate a magnetic field via the first and second electromagnets to offset the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet and adjust the flow of the ferromagnetic media through the passageway 280.

[0072] In one embodiment, each one of the control units 124 may include a magnetometer 125 for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnetic units of the core set 130 .

[0073] In one aspect of the present disclosure, when the magnetic field and the magnetic field of the electromagnet are in opposite directions, the generated magnetic field cancels the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 110 and initiates or releases the flow of the ferromagnetic media within the passageway 280 .

[0074] In another aspect of the present disclosure, when the magnetic field and the magnetic field of the electromagnet are oriented in the same direction, the generated magnetic field increases the strength of the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 110 and contributes to the accumulation or suspension of ferromagnetic media near the housing 140 of the core set 130.

[0075] In one embodiment, the strength of the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic assembly varies based on the current flowing through the inductor coil and the number of turns in the inductor coil. Adjusting the flow includes increasing, decreasing, or stopping the flow of ferromagnetic media between the first and second ends of the passageway 280.

[0076] In one embodiment, a portion of core set 130 comprises a magnetic field conductor for conducting a magnetic field around core set 130. This portion may be the component of core set 130 that conducts a magnetic field around permanent magnet 110, the first electromagnet, and the second electromagnet.

[0077] In one aspect, the media distributor 210 is operable to dispense ferromagnetic media for measurement by the flow sensor 220. In one non-limiting aspect, the flow sensor or media sensor 220 can be an inductive sensor comprising a solenoid coil 222 and operable to detect the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media passing through the solenoid coil 222. To detect the flow rate, the inductive sensor is configured to measure an induced current in the solenoid coil 222 as the ferromagnetic media passes through the solenoid coil 222 and determine the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media in the passageway 280 based on the induced current. In another non-limiting aspect, the flow sensor may be a microwave sensor. However, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples, and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0078] In one non-limiting aspect, the flow sensor may comprise a microwave sensor, however, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0079] In one non-limiting aspect, the control unit 124 is configured to adjust the flow of the ferromagnetic media in the passage 280 based on the determined flow rate. The measured flow rate of the ferromagnetic media is used as a closed-loop control shot peening flow control valve with a feedback control scheme.

[0080] In another non-limiting aspect, the shot peening flow control valve 100 can further include a temperature sensor connected to the housing 140 of the core set 130 and configured to measure the temperature of the housing 140. The temperature sensor is in communication with the control unit 124, and the control unit 124 is configured to control the current flowing through each of the inductor coils based on the measured temperature, thereby protecting the permanent magnets 110 from demagnetization or damage due to an increase in the temperature of the housing 140.

[0081] In one embodiment, the at least one magnetic unit further comprises at least one insulator attached to an end of the permanent magnet 110. The at least one insulator may be an insulating plate that shields the permanent magnet from excessive heat generated by the first and second electromagnets, thereby protecting the permanent magnet 110 from thermal damage.

[0082] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one magnetic unit further includes at least one thermally conductive plate attached to either end of the first and second electromagnets. The at least one thermally conductive plate can be connected to the first and second electromagnets to dissipate heat from the first and second electromagnets to the housing 140. The housing 140 may include at least one heat sink to absorb the dissipated heat of the housing 140.

[0083] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 124 and power assembly may be electrically connected together with the necessary components on a first printed circuit board (PCB).

[0084] Thus, the shot peening flow control valve 100 of the present disclosure facilitates efficient control of the flow of ferromagnetic media to enhance metal component properties, reduce operating costs, and improve the reliability of the shot peening process.

[0085] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a shot peening flow control valve core set 130 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] In one embodiment, the permanent magnets include a first permanent magnet 270, a second permanent magnet 272, and a third permanent magnet 274. The electromagnetic assembly 120 comprises a plurality of electromagnet cores 246, 248, 256, 258, 266, and 268. The first permanent magnet 270 is connected to the first left electromagnet core 246 and the first right electromagnet core 248, respectively, the second permanent magnet 272 is connected to the second left electromagnet core 256 and the second right electromagnet core 258, respectively, and the third permanent magnet 274 is connected to the third left electromagnet core 266 and the third right electromagnet core 268, respectively.

[0087] Core set 130 further includes multiple inductor coils 242, 244, 252, 254, 262, and 264. A first left electromagnet core 246 is located within inductor coil 242, a first left electromagnet core 248 is located within inductor coil 244, a second left electromagnet core 256 is located within inductor coil 252, a second right electromagnet core 258 is located within inductor coil 256, a third left electromagnet core 266 is located within inductor coil 262, and a third right electromagnet core 268 is located within inductor coil 264.

[0088] In one aspect of the present disclosure, when the shot peening flow control valve 100 is in a de-energized or off state, a magnetic field is provided by the permanent magnet 110 to the ferromagnetic media 102 impinging on the upper triangular core set 126. The ferromagnetic media 102 accumulates on both sides of the shot peening flow control valve 100, i.e., on one side of the first left electromagnet core 246, the second left electromagnet core 256, and the third left electromagnet core 266, and on the other side of the first right electromagnet core 248, the second right electromagnet core 258, and the third right electromagnet core 268, thereby preventing flow through the passage 280.

[0089] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a shot peening flow control valve 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 100 may be disposed inside the passage 280. The housing 140 of the shot peening flow control valve 100 forms a first passage 284 between the housing 140 of the shot peening flow control valve 100 and the left guide 182 of the passage 280, and a second passage 288 between the shot peening flow control valve 100 and the right guide 184 of the passage 280.

[0091] In one aspect of the present disclosure, ferromagnetic media 102 entering the upper portion of shot peening flow control valve 100 is diverted to first passage 284 and second passage 288. When electromagnetic assembly 120 is energized, a magnetic field is generated through the electromagnetic assembly to cancel the magnetic field of permanent magnet 110. When shot peening flow control valve 100 is opened, ferromagnetic media 104 and ferromagnetic media 106 of ferromagnetic media 102 flow from first passage 284 and second passage 288, respectively.

[0092] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view along dashed line AA shown in FIG. 3 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0093] In one embodiment, ferromagnetic media 104 and ferromagnetic media 106 of ferromagnetic media 102 flow through first passage 284 and second passage 288, respectively. First core set side cover 142 and second core set side cover 144 can direct ferromagnetic media 104 and ferromagnetic media 106 through their respective passages 284 and 288.

[0094] In one non-limiting embodiment, the first core set side cover 142 and the second core set side cover 144 can be configured at an angle to the flow of the ferromagnetic media 104 and the ferromagnetic media 106. At the same time, the shot peening flow control valve 100 and the front and rear inner walls of the passage 280 are in close contact with each other, preventing the ferromagnetic media 102 from passing through at the front and rear ends.

[0095] FIG. 5 illustrates the magnetic field distribution of the shot peening flow control valve 100 in a closed state, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0096] The magnetic field 300 generated by the permanent magnet 110 reaches the first passage 284 and the second passage 288 from the first left electromagnet core 246 and the first right electromagnet core 248, respectively, so that the ferromagnetic media 102 gathers near the first left electromagnet core 246 and the first right electromagnet core 248 and cannot pass through the first passage 284 and the second passage 288. At this point, the shot peening flow control valve 100 is in a closed or non-conductive state.

[0097] In one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, any of the electromagnets of the electromagnetic assembly 120 may be configured to generate a magnetic field oriented in the direction of the magnetic field 300 to enhance the magnetic field provided to the ferromagnetic media 102, causing the ferromagnetic media 102 to accumulate or stop near the core set side covers 142 and 144 when the shot peening flow control valve 100 is in a closed state.

[0098] FIG. 6 illustrates an assembly diagram of an electromagnetic assembly in a shot peening flow control valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the electromagnetic assembly includes first and second electromagnets 600 having hollow cores. Each electromagnet core 600 can be wound with a respective induction coil 603. A ferrite isolator 602 can be inserted into the cores to conduct heat. In one non-limiting embodiment, the ferrite isolator 602 can be replaced by a stack of multiple ferrite pins 601.

[0100] In one non-limiting embodiment, each of the electromagnet cores may be wrapped with thermally conductive tape. The thermally conductive tape and ferrite isolator 602 may be high-temperature tape constructed from polyimide. The inductor coil may be made of copper. However, the materials used are not limited to the above examples, and other materials with similar properties are well within the scope of this disclosure.

[0101] FIG. 7 shows an assembled view 700 and an exploded view of a core set magnetization (CSM) setup 710 or magnetic unit 710 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] In one aspect, the core set magnetization (CSM) setup 710 can include first and second electromagnets 701 and 712, a thermal sensor 702, a pair of thermal insulation plates 704, a pair of thermally conductive plates 703, a core set fixture 705, a bottom heat sink 706, a permanent magnet 707, a top heat sink 708, a CSM screw 709, and a core power bridge 711.

[0103] The first electromagnet 701 having a core 701a and the second electromagnet 712 having a core 712a may include an inductor coil looped across the core. A core power bridge 711 is coupled to the inductor coil to supply current to the inductor coil and energize the magnetic unit 710. The first electromagnet 701 and the second electromagnet 712 may have a structure similar to the first and second electromagnets 600 described in FIG. 6.

[0104] Core set fixture 705 resides between first electromagnet 701 and second electromagnet 712 to connect permanent magnet 707 to first electromagnet 701 and second electromagnet 712. Permanent magnet 707 is disposed between first electromagnet 701 and second electromagnet 712 inside core set fixture 705. Top heat sink 708 can be disposed above core set fixture 705, and bottom heat sink 706 can be attached or disposed at the bottom of core set fixture 705 using CSM screws 709.

[0105] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the permanent magnet 707 having ends 707a and 707b can be constructed of a ferromagnetic material such as neodymium, and the top heat sink 708 and the bottom heat sink 706 can be constructed of a thermally conductive material such as copper.

[0106] Each thermal insulation plate 704 is disposed at an end 707a, 707b of the permanent magnet 707, and the thermally conductive plate 703 is disposed between the electromagnets 701, 712 and the thermal insulation plate 704. The thermal insulation plate 704 can be configured to prevent heat generated by an inductor coil looped across the electromagnets 701 and 712 from reaching the permanent magnet 707, and the thermally conductive plate 703 can be configured to transfer the heat towards the heat sinks 708 and 706 or through the core set fixture 705 towards the housing of the magnetic unit 710.

[0107] The thermal or temperature sensor 702 and the core power bridge 711 may be electrically connected to the respective PCBs and mounted to the sides of the core set fixture. The temperature sensor 702 may monitor the temperature of the magnetic unit 710.

[0108] FIG. 8 shows assembled and exploded views of a core set (CS) 810 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0109] The core set 810 may include a housing 811 for enclosing the magnetic unit 806. The magnetic unit 806 may have a configuration similar to that of the CSM setup 710, as described in the above embodiment. The housing 811 may include a core set top 801 and a core set fixture 802, which form a core set top assembly. The housing 811 further includes core set side portions 803, 807 on either side of the magnetic unit 806 near the first and second electromagnet cores, respectively. The housing 811 further includes a core set bottom portion that forms a base for supporting the magnetic unit 806. The core set side portion 803 is connected to the core set top and core set bottom portions 804 using a dovetail connection to form an assembly enclosed around the magnetic unit 806. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, an epoxy material 805 is injected inside the housing 811 to form a single, solid module. However, the connections between the core set sides 803 and the core set top and core set bottom 804 are not limited to dovetail connections, and other types of connections are well within the scope of this disclosure.

[0110] In another non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the core set top 801 and the core set bottom 804 can be constructed of a ferrous material, including but not limited to, a magnetic conductor, a ferromagnetic material, or hardened steel. The core set fixture 802 and the core set sides 803 can be constructed of a magnetic conductor, a non-ferromagnetic material, or a non-ferrous material, including but not limited to, stainless steel or brass. The epoxy can be constructed of a material, including but not limited to, a polyester resin.

[0111] In one embodiment, the core set 810 is positioned at an intermediate position of the passageway when dividing the passageway into a first passageway and a second passageway for the flow of ferromagnetic media.

[0112] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a core set 910 along dashed line AA according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0113] Core set 910 includes core set sides 901 that fit closely with electromagnets 902 on either side of the CSM fixture. Each of the electromagnet cores 902 includes a ferrite isolator or a stack of ferrite pins 904 inserted into the electromagnet core 902. Permanent magnets 903 can be positioned inside the CSM fixture between the electromagnet cores 902.

[0114] FIG. 10 illustrates a core line 1000 setup comprising multiple core sets connected together according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] The core line 1000 can include a plurality of core set splitters 1001 and a plurality of core sets 1004 connected to one another via a plurality of shafts 1005 such that the core splitter 1001 is positioned between one of the plurality of core sets 1004, 1006, 1008. The core line 1000 further includes a core set splitter 1001 present at a front end of the core line 1000 and a core set splitter 1001 present at an aft end of the core line 1000.

[0116] The core line 1000 further includes extension guides 1002 and 1003, which are disposed on opposite sides of the core set 1004 and can form channels between either side of the core set and the extension guides. In one non-limiting embodiment, the extension guides 1003 can include a central extension guide between the two core lines when the two core lines are connected in a parallel configuration. The central extension guide divides the passage between the two core lines into two sub-passages.

[0117] 10 illustrates an extension guide connected to a core set, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

[0118] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the extension portion 1100 can include a side extension guide 1101 and a central extension guide 1102. The side extension guide 1101 has two triangular protrusions 1103, 1104 on an inner surface 1101a for at least one of the core sets. The central extension guide 1102 includes two triangular protrusions 1105, 1106 located on opposite sides 1108, 1109 of the central extension guide 1102. The two triangular protrusions 1105, 1106 of the central extension guide 1102 face toward a single slot 1107 on each side and are configured to restrict the flow of ferromagnetic media toward the single slot.

[0119] The extension 1100 can be constructed of a non-ferrous material such as plastic or 3D printed materials, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, polyurethane, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or polylactic acid, etc. However, the materials used are not limited to the above examples, and other non-conductive materials are well within the scope of this disclosure.

[0120] FIG. 12 illustrates a core layer 1200 formed using multiple core lines, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0121] 12, the core layer 1200 can include multiple core lines 1201, 1204, 1206 connected to each other in a parallel configuration. The core layer 1200 can include a central extension guide 1202 for connecting one core line 1201 to another core line 1204 in a parallel configuration.

[0122] The central extension guide 1202 may include two triangular protrusions on either side for at least one of the multiple core sets of core lines 1201, 1204, 1206 located on either side of the central extension guide 1202. The two triangular protrusions are oriented toward a single slot in the core set and configured to restrict the flow of ferromagnetic media toward the slot, and the central extension guide 1202 divides the passage between the two core lines 1201, 1204 into two sub-passages.

[0123] The core layer 1200 may further include side extension guides 1202 connected to both sides of at least one core layer. The side extension guides 1202 may include two triangular protrusions on an inner surface of at least one of the core sets. The side extension guides, together with the core layer 1200, form first and second outer passages, and the two triangular protrusions face each other and are configured to restrict the flow of ferromagnetic media in the first and second outer passages.

[0124] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the core set upper portions of the core sets present within the core lines 1201, 1204, 1206 are configured to receive ferromagnetic media from a first end of the blast tunnel and divert the ferromagnetic media to flow into respective sub-passages present between the at least two core lines 1201, 1204 and respective outer passages of the at least one core layer.

[0125] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a single core set shot peening flow control valve 1300 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0126] The single core-set shot peening flow control valve 1300 is disposed between the first and second ends of the blast tunnel to control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway. The single core-set shot peening flow control valve 1300 may include two side frames 1301, 1308 and two center frames 1302, 1305, an inlet flange 1303, a base conversion block 1304, and a core set 1307 with side extensions on both sides of the core set housing. The inlet flange 1303 may be configured to direct ferromagnetic media from the passageway to the shot peening flow control valve 1300. The shot peening flow control valve 1300 further includes a control unit 1306 for energizing the core set to control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway, as described in the above embodiment.

[0127] The side frames 1301, 1308 have two grooves at their inner ends to accommodate the two outer ends of the side extensions connected to the core set 1307. The side frames 1301, 1308, the center frames 1302, 1305, the inlet flange 1303, and the base conversion block 1304 can be constructed of non-ferrous materials. The base conversion block can function as a flow sensor fixture.

[0128] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1306 is configured to control the current flowing through each inductor coil of the core set, generate a magnetic field via the electromagnetic assembly formed by the first and second electromagnets, offset / cancel the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, and regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media into the outer passage of the core set 1307.

[0129] In one embodiment, each one of the control units 1306 may include a magnetometer 1320 for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnetic units of the core set 1307 .

[0130] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base conversion block 1304 or flow sensor fixture includes a media distributor located at the second end of the passageway and operable to dispense ferromagnetic media to measure flow rate, and a mass flow meter including a flow sensor connected to the media distributor. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can include an inductive sensor, as described in the previous embodiment, including a solenoid coil and configured to measure the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media passing through the solenoid coil. In another non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can be a microwave sensor. However, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples, and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0131] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 1306 can be configured to control the flow of the ferromagnetic media based on the measured flow rate. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the core set drive circuit can be configured to control the flow of the ferromagnetic media based on the measured temperature of the housing of the core set 1307.

[0132] Thus, the shot peening flow control valve 1300 of the present disclosure facilitates efficient control of the flow of ferromagnetic media to enhance metal component properties, reduce operating costs, and improve the reliability of the shot peening process.

[0133] FIG. 14 is an assembly diagram of a single core set shot peening flow control valve 1400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0134] The core set is enclosed inside an outer housing 1401 formed by the side frames, center frame, inlet flange, and base conversion block as described in Figure 13. The core set is tightly secured to the center frame at the front and rear ends using multiple shafts.

[0135] In one embodiment, the single core set shot peening flow control valve 1400 can be positioned inside the passage between the first end and the second end, or in another embodiment, the single core set shot peening flow control valve 1400 can be positioned between both sides of the passage.

[0136] FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view of a single layer dual core line shot peening flow control valve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0137] The single-layer dual core line shot peening flow control valve 1500 is disposed between a first end and a second end of a passageway to control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway. The shot peening flow control valve 1500 may include two side frames 1501, 1508 and two center frames 1502, 1505, an inlet flange 1503, a base conversion block 1504 or flow sensor fixture, a core layer 1507 with side extensions on both sides of the core housing, and an extension guide between the core lines of the core layer 1507.

[0138] The inlet flange 1503 can be configured to direct the ferromagnetic media from the blast tunnel to the shot peening flow control valve 1500. The shot peening flow control valve 1500 further includes a plurality of core set drive circuits 1506 for energizing at least one of the plurality of core sets present in the core layer 1507 to control the flow of the ferromagnetic media in the blast tunnel, as described in the above embodiments.

[0139] The side frames 1501, 1508 have two grooves at their inner ends to accommodate the two outer ends of the side extensions connected to the core layer 1507. The side frames 1501, 1508, the center frames 1502, 1505, the inlet flange 1503, and the base conversion block 1504 may be constructed of non-ferrous materials.

[0140] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of control units 1506 are configured to control currents through respective inductor coils of the core sets of the core lines, generate magnetic fields via the electromagnetic assemblies to counteract the magnetic fields generated by the permanent magnets, and regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media into respective sub-passages present between at least two core lines and / or respective outer passages of at least one core layer.

[0141] In one aspect, each one of the control units 1506 can include a magnetometer 1520 for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnetic units of the multiple core sets.

[0142] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base conversion block 1504 includes a media distributor located at a second end of the passageway and operable to distribute ferromagnetic media to measure flow rate, and a mass flow meter including a flow sensor coupled to the media distributor. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can include an inductive sensor, as described in the previous embodiment, including a solenoid coil and configured to measure the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media passing through the solenoid coil. In another non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can be a microwave sensor. However, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples, and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0143] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 1500 includes a central control unit in communication with multiple control units 1506. The multiple control units 1506 are coupled to the inductor coils via respective power bridges of the core sets.

[0144] The central control unit is configured to control the multiple core set drive circuits 1506 to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured flow rate. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the central control unit is configured to control the multiple control units 1506 to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured temperature of the housing of each core set.

[0145] In one non-limiting aspect, the central control unit can turn off the core set if the temperature of the core set housing exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, thereby protecting the permanent magnets of the core set from damage due to high temperatures.

[0146] FIG. 16 shows an assembly diagram of a single layer dual core line shot peening flow control valve 1600 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0147] The core layer is enclosed inside an outer housing 1601 formed by the side frames, center frame, inlet flange, and base conversion block as described in Figure 15. The core layer is tightly fixed to the center frame at the front and rear ends using multiple shafts. A single-layer dual-core line shot peening flow control valve 1600 can be positioned in the center of the passage between the first end and the second end.

[0148] FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of a shot peening flow control valve 1710 along dashed line AA according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0149] 17, the core set of core lines 1702 and 1704, along with side extension guides present on each side of the core layer, form first outer passage 1701 and second outer passage 1706. Core lines 1702 and 1704 further form inner sub-passages 1703 and 1705 with a central extension guide used to connect core lines 1702 and 1704.

[0150] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a shot peening flow control valve 1800 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0151] 18, a shot peening flow control valve 1800 includes multiple core lines 1801 and 1803 stacked together using a central extension guide 1802. Each core line includes multiple core sets connected to each other and separated by core set splitters 1804.

[0152] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of a single layer multi-core line shot peening flow control valve 1900 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0153] The single-layer multi-core line shot peening flow control valve 1900 is disposed between a first end and a second end of a passageway to control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway. The shot peening flow control valve 1900 may include two side frames 1901, 1908 and two center frames 1902, 1905, an inlet flange 1903, a base conversion block 1904 or flow sensor fixture, a core layer 1907 with side extensions on both sides of the core housing, and extension guides between the core lines of the core layer 1907.

[0154] The inlet flange 1903 can be configured to direct the ferromagnetic media from the passageway to the shot peening flow control valve 1900. The shot peening flow control valve 1900 further includes a plurality of control units 1906 for energizing at least one of the plurality of core sets present in the core layer 1907 and controlling the flow of the ferromagnetic media, as described in the above embodiments.

[0155] The side frames 1901, 1908 have two grooves at their inner ends to accommodate the two outer ends of the side extensions connected to the core layer 1907. The side frames 1901, 1908, the center frames 1902, 1905, the inlet flange 1903, and the base conversion block 1904 may be constructed of non-ferrous materials.

[0156] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of control units 1906 are configured to control current flow through the inductor coils of each of the core sets, generate a magnetic field via the electromagnetic assembly to offset / cancel the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, and regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media into each of the sub-passages existing between at least two core lines and / or each of the outer passages of at least one core layer.

[0157] In one embodiment, each one of the control units 1906 can include a magnetometer 1920 for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnetic units of the multiple core sets.

[0158] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base conversion block 1904 includes a media distributor located at a second end of the passageway and operable to dispense ferromagnetic media to measure flow rate, and a mass flow meter including a flow sensor coupled to the media distributor. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can include an inductive sensor, as described in the previous embodiment, including a solenoid coil and configured to measure the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media passing through the solenoid coil. In another non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can be a microwave sensor. However, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples, and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0159] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 1900 includes a central control unit in communication with multiple control units 1906. The multiple control units 1906 are coupled to the inductor coils via respective power bridges of the core sets.

[0160] The central control unit is configured to control the plurality of control units 1906 to adjust the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured flow rate. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the central control unit is configured to control the plurality of core set drive circuits 1906 to control the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured temperature of the housing of each core set.

[0161] In one non-limiting aspect, the central control unit can turn off the core set if the temperature of the core set housing exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, thereby protecting the permanent magnets of the core set from damage due to high temperatures.

[0162] FIG. 20 shows an assembly view of a single layer multi-core line shot peening flow control valve 2000 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0163] The core layer is enclosed inside an outer housing 2001 formed by the side frames, center frame, inlet flange, and base conversion block, as described in Figure 19. The core layer is tightly fixed to the center frame at its front and rear ends using multiple shafts. A shot peening flow control valve 2000 can be positioned in the center of the passage between the first and second ends of the passage to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passage.

[0164] FIG. 21 shows an exploded view of a multi-layer shot peening flow control valve 2100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0165] The shot peening flow control valve 2100 is disposed between the first and second ends of the passageway to control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway. The shot peening flow control valve 2100 may include two side frames 2101, 2110 and two center frames 2102, 2109, an inlet flange 2103, a base conversion block 2104 or flow sensor fixture, and multiple core layers, namely, an upper core layer 2107 and a lower core layer 2108 with side extensions on both sides of the core housing, and an extension guide between the core lines of the lower core layer 2108. The shot peening flow control valve 2100 further includes a layer dividing frame 2105 for dividing the at least two core layers 2107 and 2108 into different levels 2131, 2132, such as the upper core layer 2107 and the lower core layer 2108. The layer dividing frame 2105 is arranged in a staggered pattern in the passageway 280 for transporting the ferromagnetic media 102.

[0166] The inlet flange 2103 can be configured to direct the ferromagnetic media from the blast tunnel to the shot peening flow control valve 2100. The shot peening flow control valve 2100 further includes a plurality of control units 2106 for energizing at least one of the plurality of core sets present in the plurality of core layers 2107 and controlling the flow of the ferromagnetic media within the passageway, as described in the above embodiment.

[0167] The side frames 2101, 2110 have two grooves at their inner ends to accommodate the two outer ends of the side extensions connected to the upper core layer 2107. The side frames 2101, 2110, the center frames 2102, 2109, the inlet flange 2103, and the base conversion block 2104 may be constructed of non-ferrous materials.

[0168] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of control units 2106 are configured to control current flowing through each inductor coil of the core set, generate a magnetic field via the electromagnetic assembly to offset / cancel the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, and regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media into each sub-passage existing between at least two core lines and / or each outer passage of at least one core layer.

[0169] In one aspect, each one of the control units 2106 can include a magnetometer 2120 for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnetic units of the multiple core sets.

[0170] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the base diversion block 2104 includes a media distributor located at a second end of the passageway and operable to dispense ferromagnetic media to measure the flow rate, and a mass flow meter including a flow sensor coupled to the media distributor. In one non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can include an inductive sensor, as described in the previous embodiment, including a solenoid coil and configured to measure the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media passing through the solenoid coil. In another non-limiting embodiment, the flow sensor can be a microwave sensor. However, the flow sensor is not limited to the above examples, and other types of flow / wave sensors are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0171] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the shot peening flow control valve 2100 includes a central control unit in communication with multiple control units 2106. The multiple control units 2106 are coupled to the inductor coils via respective power bridges of the core sets.

[0172] The central control unit is configured to control the multiple core set drive circuits 2106 to adjust the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured flow rate. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the central control unit is configured to control the multiple control units 2106 to control the flow of ferromagnetic media based on the measured temperature of the housing of each core set.

[0173] In one non-limiting aspect, the central control unit can turn off the core set if the temperature of the core set housing exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, thereby protecting the permanent magnets of the core set from damage due to high temperatures.

[0174] FIG. 22 shows an assembly view of a multi-layer shot peening flow control valve 2200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0175] The core layer is enclosed inside an outer housing 2201 formed by the side frames, center frame, inlet flange, and base conversion block as described in Figure 21. The upper core layer is tightly fixed to the center frame at the front and rear ends using multiple shafts. A shot peening flow control valve 2100 can be positioned inside the passage between the first and second ends of the passage to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passage.

[0176] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the core set includes a magnetic field conductor material for conducting a magnetic field around the core set.

[0177] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the number of core lines in each core layer and the number of core layers varies based on the required flow rate of the ferromagnetic media.

[0178] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram 2300 of a control unit setup according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0179] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit setup 2300 includes a central control unit CS01 and a plurality of control units CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N electrically connected to the central control unit CS01. The central control unit CS01 can be configured to control at least one control unit of the plurality of control units CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media in at least one passageway, as described in the above embodiments. In one non-limiting embodiment, the central control unit CS01 is electrically connected in parallel with the plurality of control units CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N and can control the control units CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media in at least one passageway, as described in the above embodiments.

[0180] FIG. 24 illustrates a flowchart of a method 2400 for adjusting the flow of ferromagnetic media in a blast tunnel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0181] In block 2401, a magnetic field is provided to the passageway. The magnetic field is provided by at least one core set disposed between a first end and a second end of the passageway. The at least one core set includes at least one magnetic unit enclosed inside a housing of the at least one core set. The at least one core set can form a shot peening flow control valve based on the arrangement and components described in the above embodiments. The body of the shot peening flow control valve surrounds the passageway for transporting ferromagnetic media from the first end of the passageway to the second end of the passageway.

[0182] In one aspect, providing a magnetic field to the passageway can include generating a magnetic field in the passageway by a permanent magnet of at least one magnetic unit, and suspending the ferromagnetic media based on the magnetic field.

[0183] At block 2403, the ferromagnetic media is conveyed from the first end of the passageway to the second end of the passageway. The ferromagnetic media may flow into the passageways formed by at least the core set housings, as described in the above embodiments.

[0184] At block 2405, the flow of ferromagnetic media can be controlled between the first and second ends of the passageway based on a magnetic field provided to the passageway. Controlling the flow of ferromagnetic media between the first and second ends can include adjusting the magnetic fields of first and second electromagnets of at least one magnetic unit. The magnetic fields of the first and second electromagnets can be adjusted using the procedures described in the above embodiments.

[0185] In one aspect, method 2400 can further include shielding 2407 the at least one magnetic unit from the ferromagnetic media coming from the first end. The shielding 2407 is provided by a core set upper portion of the at least one core set.

[0186] In another aspect, the method 2400 may further include step 2409 of detecting the magnetic field strength of the at least one magnetic unit using a magnetometer and step 2411 of measuring the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media in the passageway with a mass flow meter using the procedures described in the above aspects.

[0187] In yet another aspect, the method 2400 may further include step 2413 of measuring the temperature of the housing, electromagnet, or other component of the shot peening flow control valve using the procedures described in the previous aspects.

[0188] The method 2400 further includes adjusting the magnetic field provided by the at least one core set based on at least one of the measured temperature or the measured flow rate.

[0189] In one non-limiting aspect, the method can control the flow of ferromagnetic media within the passageway based on the measured temperature, thereby protecting the permanent magnets of the core set from damage.

[0190] Thus, the method 2400 facilitates efficient control of the flow of ferromagnetic media to improve the properties of metal parts, reduce operating costs, and improve the reliability of the shot peening process.

[0191] It should be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will understand that a particular embodiment may be configured to operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein, without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages that may be taught or suggested herein.

[0192] The terms "an aspect," "aspect," "aspects," "the aspect," "the aspects," "one or more aspects," "some aspects," and "one aspect," "other aspect," "yet another aspect," and "non-limiting aspect" mean "one or more (but not all) aspects of the disclosure," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0193] Various processing operations described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented or performed by a machine such as a processor. The processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, or a combination thereof. The processor may include electrical circuitry configured to process computer-executable instructions. In another aspect, the processor includes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable device that performs logical operations without processing computer-executable instructions. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a digital signal processor (DSP) and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. While described herein primarily with respect to digital technology, a processor may also include primarily analog components. For example, some or all of the signal processing algorithms described herein may be implemented by analog circuitry or mixed analog and digital circuitry. The computing environment includes any type of computer system, including, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a mainframe computer, a digital signal processor, a portable computing device, a device controller, or a computer system based on a computing engine within a device.

[0194] The terms "including," "comprising," and "having" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0195] An enumerated list of items does not imply that some or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0196] A description of an embodiment having several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems.

[0197] Finally, the language used herein has been selected primarily for ease of reading and guidance, and not to delineate or limit the subject matter of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of the disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but by any claims in an application based thereon. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure are intended to illustrate, but not limit, the scope of the disclosure, which is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A shot peening flow control valve (100) for regulating the flow of ferromagnetic media (102), said shot peening flow control valve (100) comprising: a body (182, 184) surrounding a passage (280), the passage for transporting the ferromagnetic media (102) from a first end (150) of the passage (280) to a second end (160) of the passage (280); at least one core set (130) disposed between the first end (150) and the second end (160) and including at least one magnetic unit operable to provide a magnetic field (300) in the passageway (280); Equipped with At least one core set (130) is positioned at an intermediate position (107) between both sides of the passage (280) when dividing the passage (280) into a first passage (284) and a second passage (288), and is configured to generate the magnetic field (300) in the passage (280) to move the ferromagnetic media (102) near opposing magnetic poles (302, 304) of the at least one magnetic unit, thereby stopping the flow of the ferromagnetic media (102).

2. The at least one core set (130) comprises: a housing (140) for enclosing the at least one magnetic unit (120), the housing (140) comprising: a core set upper portion (126) for shielding the at least one magnetic unit (120) from the ferromagnetic media (102) coming from the first end (150); a first core set side cover (142) and a second core set side cover (144) disposed on both sides (170, 180) of the at least one magnetic unit (120), respectively; Equipped with 2. The shot peening flow control valve of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first core set side cover and the second core set side cover is disposed on a magnetic pole of the at least one magnetic unit to shield the magnetic pole and provide a magnetic field of the magnetic pole to the passage.

3. 2. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 1, wherein the at least one magnetic unit (120) comprises a permanent magnet (110) and a first electromagnet (246, 256, 266), and a core (246 a, 256 a, 266 a) of the first electromagnet (246, 256, 266) is connected to a first end (111) of the permanent magnet (110).

4. the at least one magnetic unit (120) further comprises a second electromagnet (248, 258, 268); 4. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 3, wherein a core (248a, 258a, 268a) of the second electromagnet (248, 258, 268) is connected to a second end (112) of the permanent magnet (110).

5. 4. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 3, wherein the permanent magnet (110) is operable to generate a magnetic field (300) in the passage (280) to independently stop the flow of the ferromagnetic media (102).

6. The magnetic unit (120) 5. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 4, further comprising a control unit (124) connected to both the first and second electromagnets (246, 248, 256, 258, 266, 268) for adjusting the magnetic fields (300) of the first and second electromagnets (246, 248, 256, 258, 266, 268).

7. 2. The shot peening flow control valve of claim 1, wherein a portion of the at least one core set comprises a magnetic field conductor material for conducting a magnetic field around the at least one core set.

8. 2. The shot peening flow control valve of claim 1, wherein the at least one core set comprises a first core set and a second core set arranged at a distance from each other, the first core set and the second core set being operable to cooperate with each other.

9. 9. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 8, wherein the first core set (1004) and the second core set (1006) are arranged in series such that the first core set (1004) and the second core set (1006) are at different distances from the first end (150).

10. 9. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 8, wherein the first core set (1004) and the second core set (1006) are arranged in parallel such that the first core set (1004) and the second core set (1006) are approximately the same distance from the first end (150).

11. 11. The shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 10, further comprising a third core set (1008) arranged in series with the first core set (1004) and the second core set (1006), wherein the third core set (1008) is at a substantially different distance from the first end (150) relative to either the first core set (1004) and / or the second core set (1006).

12. 1. A shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) for regulating the flow of ferromagnetic media (102), said shot peening flow control valve comprising: a body (182, 184) defining a passageway (280) for transporting the ferromagnetic media (102) from a first end (150) of the passageway (280) to a second end (160) of the passageway; At least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108) disposed between the first end (150) and the second end (160), the core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108) comprising a plurality of core lines (1000, 1201, 1204, 1206) connected in a parallel configuration, the core lines (1000, 1201, 1204, 1206) has a plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004) connected to one another, at least one of the plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004, 1006, 1008) comprising a magnetic unit (710, 806) operable to provide the magnetic field (300) to the passage (280) and a housing (811) for enclosing the magnetic unit (710, 806); the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108), operable to provide a magnetic field (300) to the passageway (280); a cover (1401, 1601, 2001, 2201) surrounding the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108); Equipped with The cover (1401, 1601, 2001, 2201) is an inlet flange (1303, 1503, 1903, 2103) for conveying the ferromagnetic media (102) from the first end (150); a first side frame (1301, 1501, 1901, 2101) and a second side frame (1308, 1508, 1908, 2110) respectively disposed on both sides of the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108); a first central frame (1302, 1502, 1902, 2102) and a second central frame (1305, 1505, 1905, 2109) disposed at the front end and rear end of the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108); a base conversion block (1304, 1504, 1904, 2104) disposed below the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108), the first and second side frames (1301, 1501, 1901, 2101, 1308, 1508, 1908, 2110) of the cover (1401, 1601, 2001, 2201), and the first and second central frames (1302, 1502, 1902, 2102, 1305, 1505, 1905, 2109); Equipped with the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108) is disposed at an intermediate position between the first end (150) of the passage (280) and the second end (160) of the passage (280); the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108) divides the passage (280) into multiple passages to regulate the flow of ferromagnetic media (102) within the passage (280), and generates the magnetic field (300) in the passage (280) to move the ferromagnetic media (102) near opposing magnetic poles (302, 304) of the at least one magnetic unit (120) and stop the flow of the ferromagnetic media (102).

13. A method for fabricating a network comprising: a plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004), one of which is separated from the other core sets (810, 910, 1004) by a core set splitter (1001); a plurality of shafts (1005) for connecting together the plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004) and the core set splitter (1001); 13. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 12, comprising:

14. further comprising a central extension guide (1102, 1202) for connecting one core line (1201) with another core line (1204) in a parallel configuration; the central extension guide (1102, 1202) has two triangular projections (1101, 1106) on both sides (1108, 1109) of one of the plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004, 1006, 1008) located on both sides (1108, 1109) of the central extension guide (1102, 1202); The two triangular projections (1101, 1106) face a single slot (1107); 14. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 13, wherein the central extension guide (1102, 1202) divides the passage (280) between the two core lines (1201, 1204) into two sub-passages (1703, 1705).

15. Further comprising a first lateral extension guide (1101, 1203) and a second lateral extension guide (1101, 1203) respectively disposed on both sides of the at least one core layer (1307, 1507, 1907, 2107, 2108), the first lateral extension guide (1101, 1203) and the second lateral extension guide (1101, 1203) have two triangular projections (1103, 1104) on an inner surface (1101 a) of one of the plurality of core sets (810, 910, 1004, 1006, 1008); the first side extension guide (1101, 1203) and the second side extension guide (1101, 1203) respectively form a first outer passage (1701) and a second outer passage (1706) together with the first side frame and the second side frame (1308, 1508, 1908, 2110); 14. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 13, wherein the two triangular projections (1103, 1104) face each other.

16. The housing (811) a core set upper portion (801) for shielding the magnetic unit (710, 806) from the ferromagnetic media (102) coming from the first end (150); a first core set side cover (803) and a second core set side cover (807) disposed on both sides (170, 180) of the magnetic unit (710, 806), respectively; Equipped with 13. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 12, wherein at least one of the first core set side cover and the second core set side cover (803, 807) is disposed on the magnetic poles (302, 304) of the magnetic unit (710, 806) to shield the magnetic poles (302, 304) and provide the magnetic field (300) of the magnetic poles (302, 304) to the passage (280).

17. The magnetic unit comprises a permanent magnet (707) and a first electromagnet (701); 17. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 16, wherein a core (701a) of the first electromagnet (701) is connected to a first end (707a) of the permanent magnet (707).

18. The magnetic unit (710, 806) further comprises a second electromagnet (712); 18. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 17, wherein a core (712a) of the second electromagnet (712) is connected to a second end (707b) of the permanent magnet (707).

19. a central control unit (CS01); a plurality of control units (CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N) electrically connected to the central control unit (CS01); Furthermore, 13. The shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 12, wherein the control unit (CS02, CS03, ..., CS0N) is connected to either of the first and second electromagnets (701, 712) of a respective magnetic unit (710, 806) to adjust the magnetic field (300) of the first and second electromagnets (701, 712).

20. 1. A shot peening machine for projecting ferromagnetic media (102) onto a surface of at least one component, said shot peening machine comprising: a chamber (102) for storing said ferromagnetic media; a passageway (280) for conveying the ferromagnetic media (102) onto the surface (240) of the at least one component (250); Shot peening flow control valve (100, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) Equipped with The shot peening flow control valve (100, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) is a body (182, 184) surrounding the passage (280) for transporting the ferromagnetic media (102) from a first end (150) of the passage (280) to a second end (160) of the passage (280), the at least one component (250) being disposed at the second end (160) of the passage (280); and at least one core set (810, 910, 1004, 1006, 1008) disposed between the first end (150) and the second end (160), the core set comprising at least one magnetic unit (710, 806), the at least one magnetic unit (710, 806) operable to provide a magnetic field (300) in the passageway (280) and adjust a launch velocity of ferromagnetic media (102) onto the surface (240) of the at least one component (250); Equipped with at least one core set (130) is positioned at an intermediate position (107) between both sides of the passage (280) when dividing the passage (280) into a first passage (284) and a second passage (288), and is configured to generate the magnetic field (300) in the passage (280) to move the ferromagnetic media (102) near opposing magnetic poles (302, 304) of the at least one magnetic unit, thereby stopping the flow of the ferromagnetic media (102).

21. the at least one magnetic unit (710, 806) comprises a permanent magnet (707) and a first electromagnet (701); 21. The shot peening machine of claim 20, wherein a core (701a) of the first electromagnet (701) is connected to a first end (707a) of the permanent magnet (707).

22. the at least one magnetic unit (710, 806) further comprises a second electromagnet (712); 22. The shot peening machine of claim 21, wherein a core (701b) of the second electromagnet (712) is connected to a second end (707b) of the permanent magnet (707).

23. The magnetic unit comprises:

21. The shot peening machine of claim 20, further comprising a control unit (124) connected to both the first and second electromagnets (701, 712) for adjusting the magnetic fields (300) of the first and second electromagnets (701, 712).

24. 21. The shot peening machine of claim 20, wherein the at least one core set comprises a first core set and a second core set that are spaced apart, the first core set and the second core set being operable to cooperate.

25. 13. A method (2400) of regulating a flow of ferromagnetic media (102) using the shot peening flow control valve (100) of claim 1 or the shot peening flow control valve (1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200) of claim 12, the method comprising: providing a magnetic field (2401) to the passageway (280); conveying (2403) the ferromagnetic media (102) from a first end (150) of the passageway (280) to a second end (160) of the passageway (280); providing (2405) a magnetic field to the passageway (280) to control the flow of the ferromagnetic media (102) between the first end (150) and the second end (160); A method (2400) comprising:

26. The step of providing the magnetic field to the passageway includes: generating a magnetic field by a permanent magnet of the at least one magnetic unit (710, 806) to generate a magnetic field in the passageway (280); or 26. The method (2400) of claim 25, comprising suspending the ferromagnetic media (102) by the magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

27. The step of providing a magnetic field (2405) comprises:

27. The method (2400) of claim 26, comprising adjusting the magnetic field of the first electromagnet (701) and / or the second electromagnet (712).

28. 26. The method (2400) of claim 25, further comprising detecting (2409) the magnetic field strength of the magnetic field with a magnetometer.

29. 26. The method (2400) of claim 25, further comprising measuring (2411) the flow rate of the ferromagnetic media (102) with a mass flow meter (230).

Images