Device for controlling operation of a swing apparatus

Abstract

This invention discloses a swinging device including an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly. The frame assembly defines a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swinging device. The swinging device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly; and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc portion centered on the pivot. When the swinging device is in neutral position, the electromagnet has an angular offset relative to the plurality of permanent magnets positioned along the arc portion about the pivot.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] none Prior Technology

[0002] A swing chair is designed to provide a safe, raised seating area for children, as well as the soothing benefits of a natural pendulum motion. However, conventional swing chairs have various drawbacks. For example, conventional swing chairs are typically powered by direct current (DC) electricity and a gearbox. Gearbox-based swing chairs tend to be noisy due to mechanical operation and often become noisier over time due to mechanical wear. Gearbox-based swing chairs are often inefficient in terms of power consumption and have a higher probability of component failure due to the variety of different components (e.g., multiple gears, pins, lubricants, bearings, and / or the like). Therefore, gearbox-based swing chairs often fail earlier than normal wear and tear.

[0003] As another example, due to the mechanical size of such gearbox components, the gearbox-based rocking chair also has a bulky drive unit, making the rocking chair heavy and / or interfering with swinging operations such as caregivers approaching the rocking chair controls, thereby hindering the placement of a child in the rocking chair and the removal of the child and / or similar actions.

[0004] As another example, some conventional rocking chairs require a caregiver to manually push them to initiate movement. This can be problematic because it can cause potential harm to the child / user in the rocking chair when the rocking chair requires a great deal of force from the caregiver, when the caregiver is unable (e.g., disabled or elderly) to apply the required force, and (conversely) when the caregiver may be too aggressive.

[0005] To give another example, some conventional rocking chairs control the swing motion by estimating when the rocking chair passes through the center of the swing motion, assuming that this is the same as the rocking chair's position when it is at rest. However, rocking chairs are often placed on uneven surfaces (e.g., carpets), which can lead to misestimation of the center of the swing motion (which is affected by gravity), and consequently, tilting and / or other performance problems.

[0006] Designing a rocking chair to overcome these challenges is typically difficult because children's rocking chairs must meet stringent safety and stability regulations while providing a satisfactory range and speed of swinging motion. One way to achieve this stability in conventional rocking chairs is by "anchoring" the chair with an adjustable base to prevent it from tipping over during swinging. However, this adjustable base creates packaging and assembly problems and is not suitable for smaller homes, such as apartment buildings and condominiums.

[0007] Some conventional rocking chairs incorporate magnetic actuators to overcome some of these problems, particularly regarding the fragility of gearbox designs. However, these conventional magnetic rocking chairs also tend to have bulky actuators, often resulting in at least some of these magnetic components (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) being positioned away from the rocking axis, such as, for example, on or adjacent to the seat of the rocking chair itself. This distance from the axis of rotation places high demands on the size, strength, and / or power consumption (for electromagnets). Furthermore, several conventional magnetic rocking chairs still require manual pushing by the user to initiate movement. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 000,743, filed March 27, 2020; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 012,999, filed April 21, 2020; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 041,172, filed June 19, 2020; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 127,575, filed December 18, 2020. The entire contents of each of the foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0009] The various innovative embodiments disclosed in this specification pertain to a oscillating device that is magnetic (utilizing an array of permanent magnets and an electromagnet oriented between such permanent magnets). In various embodiments, the magnetic actuators of the innovative oscillating device disclosed according to the invention are advantageously positioned close to the pivot of the oscillating arm, thereby providing a small, lightweight, powerful, and significantly energy-efficient actuator capable of self-starting from a neutral rest position. Compared to mechanical actuator mechanisms used in conventional oscillating devices (e.g., employing a DC motor and gearbox or having magnetic components adjacent to or directly coupled to the seat of the rocking chair), the magnetic actuators disclosed in this specification have relatively fewer components and generally provide quieter, more energy-efficient, and more reliable operation. In some embodiments, a oscillating device includes a magnetic actuator comprising an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets. The oscillating device also includes a controller coupled to the electromagnet to activate the electromagnet by applying an initiating current having a polarity selectable from a first polarity and a second polarity, thereby inducing movement of at least one part of the oscillating device. The controller is configured to: A1) apply the initiating current having one of the first polarity and the second polarity; A2) determine whether at least the part of the oscillating device has moved at least a predetermined amount; A3) if, after a predetermined period of time, at least the part of the oscillating device has not moved at least the predetermined amount, switch the polarity of the initiating current to the other of the first polarity and the second polarity; and A4) repeat A2) and A3) until A2) determines that the oscillating device has moved at least the predetermined amount.

[0010] In some configurations, a swinging device includes an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets adjacent to the electromagnet such that upon electrical activation of the electromagnet, a magnetic force is generated between the electromagnet and each of the plurality of permanent magnets. The swinging device also includes a controller coupled to the electromagnet to electrically activate the electromagnet and thereby induce the swinging motion of the device without manual intervention by the user.

[0011] A swinging device includes a controller for controlling the movement of at least one portion of the swinging device; and a plurality of optical sensors coupled to the controller. The plurality of optical sensors include a first light source for emitting a first light beam propagating along a first optical path; and a first detector spaced apart from the first light source and disposed within the first optical path to detect the first light beam. The plurality of optical sensors also include a second light source for emitting a second light beam along a second optical path substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset by a separation distance relative to the first optical path. The plurality of optical sensors also include a second detector spaced apart from the second light source and disposed within the second optical path to detect the second light beam. The swinging device further includes an optical encoder strip disposed within the first and second optical paths to facilitate the detection of the movement of at least that portion of the swinging device.

[0012] In some embodiments, a oscillating device includes a controller for controlling the movement of at least one portion of the oscillating device; and a plurality of optical sensors coupled to the controller. The plurality of optical sensors include a first light source for emitting a first light beam propagating along a first optical path; and a first detector spaced apart from the first light source and disposed within the first optical path to detect the first light beam. The plurality of optical sensors also include a second light source for emitting a second light beam along a second optical path substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset by a separation distance relative to the first optical path. The plurality of optical sensors also include a second detector spaced apart from the second light source and disposed within the second optical path to detect the second light beam. The oscillating device further includes a slotted strip disposed within the first and second optical paths to facilitate the detection of the movement of at least that portion of the oscillating device based on alternating blocking and non-blocking of the first and second light beams. The slotted strip includes a plurality of optical through slots and a plurality of optical blockers, which are respectively disposed between successive slots of the plurality of optical through slots.

[0013] In some configurations, a swing device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device further includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly; and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc portion centered on the pivot. When the swing device is in neutral position, the electromagnet has an angular offset relative to the plurality of permanent magnets positioned along the arc portion about the pivot.

[0014] In some configurations, a swinging device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swinging device. The swinging device further includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly; and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arcuate portion centered on the pivot. When the swinging device is in neutral position, the electromagnet and the plurality of permanent magnets are disposed on a first side of the pivot, and the seat is disposed on a second side of the pivot.

[0015] In some embodiments, a swinging device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swinging device. The swinging device also includes a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot, wherein a linear distance between each of the plurality of permanent magnets and the pivot is at most about 0.5 inches and about 5 inches. The swinging device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly.

[0016] In some embodiments, a swing device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device also includes a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the arm assembly and positioned to define an arc portion centered on the pivot. The swing device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly, wherein a linear distance between the electromagnet and the pivot is at most about 1 inch to about 6 inches.

[0017] In some configurations, a oscillating device includes an electromagnet and a plurality of permanent magnets adjacent to the electromagnet, such that upon electrical activation of the electromagnet, a magnetic force is generated, thereby controlling the oscillating motion of at least one portion of the electromagnet. When the oscillating device is in magnetic alignment during operation, the gap between the electromagnet and one of the plurality of permanent magnets, the first permanent magnet, is less than or equal to 0.15 inches.

[0018] In some embodiments, a swinging device includes an arm assembly comprising a hub, a swing arm coupled to the hub, and a seat coupled to the swing arm. The swinging device also includes a frame assembly coupled to the hub and including a frame arm, the frame assembly defining a pivot around which the hub rotates during operation of the swinging device. The swinging device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly; and a plurality of permanent magnets disposed on the hub and positioned to define an arcuate portion centered on the pivot. The swinging device also includes a housing encapsulating the electromagnet and the plurality of permanent magnets.

[0019] In some cases, a swinging device includes a controller to determine when at least one part of the swinging device changes direction during a swinging motion, without detecting when that part of the swinging device is positioned through a gap in the swinging motion.

[0020] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a disc having a surface and including a turntable to facilitate user input during use, specifying the degree of swinging motion of at least one portion of the swing device. The surface defines an aperture and a recess within the aperture, and the turntable is disposed within the recess. The swing device also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the turntable to control the swinging motion based on user input.

[0021] In some versions, a kit includes components for assembly into a swing device. The kit includes a first component, which further includes a frame assembly; a magnetic actuator coupled to the frame assembly; and a power delivery circuit for coupling an external power source to the magnetic actuator. The kit also includes a second component comprising a swing arm configured for coupling to the magnetic actuator. The kit also includes a third component comprising a seat configured for coupling to the swing arm. The power delivery circuit is entirely housed within the first component.

[0022] In some embodiments, a swing device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly for supporting the swing device on a ground during operation. The frame assembly is coupled to the arm assembly and defines a pivot around which the arm assembly swings during operation of the swing device. The pivot forms an angle of approximately 15 degrees to approximately 45 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane parallel to the ground. The swing device also includes a drive member configured around the pivot to control the swinging movement of the arm assembly around the pivot during operation of the swing device.

[0023] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a base positioned on a substantially horizontal surface during operation of the swing device, the base defining a vertical footprint of the base component on the surface. The swing device also includes a frame assembly comprising a frame arm having a lower portion coupled to the base, the lower portion of the frame arm extending upward from the base and obliquely vertically, such that the lower portion of the frame arm extends away from and outside the vertical footprint of the base. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the frame assembly, the swing arm assembly including a seat for securing a child during operation of the swing device.

[0024] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a base for placement on a ground during operation of the swing device, the base having a curved outer periphery. The swing device also includes an arm assembly comprising a swing arm; and a rotatable seat coupled to the swing arm to hold a child during operation of the swing device, the rotatable seat having a rotation axis perpendicular to the ground. The swing device also includes a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and the base, defining a pivot around which the arm assembly swings during operation of the swing device. The rotatable seat is positioned on the arm assembly such that the combined center of gravity of the swing device and the anthropomorphic test device (ATD) disposed in the seat is laterally offset by less than 1 inch relative to the rotation axis of the rotatable seat.

[0025] In some versions, a swing device includes a base for placement on a horizontal plane during use, the base defining a vertical coverage surface. The swing device also includes a frame assembly comprising a frame arm defining an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion of the frame arm being coupled to the base via a handle and tilted at an angle about the vertical coverage surface at an interconnection point, such that the lower portion of the frame arm lies outside the vertical coverage surface. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the frame assembly, the swing arm assembly including a seat for holding a child during use, wherein the lower and upper portions together define a curvature such that the upper portion of the frame arm enters the vertical coverage surface.

[0026] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a base member for placement on a horizontal plane during use, the base member defining a vertical cover. The swing device also includes a frame assembly comprising a frame arm defining an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the frame arm is coupled to the base member via a handle and is angled about the vertical cover at the connection point such that the lower portion of the frame arm lies outside the vertical cover. The swing device also includes a drive member coupled to the upper portion, wherein at least one portion of the drive member lies inside the vertical cover. The swing device also includes a swing arm assembly coupled to the drive member, the swing arm assembly including a seat for securing a child during use.

[0027] In some embodiments, a swing device includes a frame assembly and a hub rotatably coupled to the frame assembly at a pivot. The swing device also includes a seat and a swing arm having a first end attached to the seat. A second end of the swing arm is attached to the hub, such that rotation of the hub relative to the frame assembly about the pivot causes rotation of the swing arm and the seat. The swing device also includes at least one permanent magnet disposed on one of the frame assembly and the hub, and at least one electromagnet disposed on the other of the frame assembly and the hub. The at least one electromagnet and the at least one permanent magnet are configured to apply magnetic forces to each other to cause the hub to rotate relative to the frame assembly about the pivot.

[0028] In some configurations, a swinging device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swinging device. The swinging device also includes at least one permanent magnet disposed on one of the arm assembly and the frame assembly, and positioned to define an arc centered on the pivot. The swinging device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the other of the arm assembly and the frame assembly. The at least one permanent magnet is configured to have a relative polarity facing the electromagnet. The swinging device is configured such that when the arm assembly is in neutral and the electromagnet is electrically actuated, attractive and repulsive magnetic forces are simultaneously generated between the electromagnet and the at least one permanent magnet.

[0029] In some configurations, a swing device includes an arm assembly comprising a seat; and a frame assembly coupled to the arm assembly and defining a pivot around which the arm assembly rotates during operation of the swing device. The swing device also includes an electromagnet disposed on the frame assembly; and at least one permanent magnet disposed on the arm assembly and positioned such that a north pole and a south pole of the at least one permanent magnet are magnetically aligned with the electromagnet during operation of the swing device. When the swing device is in neutral position, the electromagnet has an angular offset relative to the north and south poles of the at least one permanent magnet about the pivot.

[0030] All combinations of the foregoing concepts and the additional concepts discussed in more detail below (assuming that these concepts do not contradict each other) constitute part of the inventive subject matter disclosed in this specification. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this specification constitute part of the inventive subject matter disclosed in this specification. The terms used in this specification (which may also appear in any disclosure incorporated herein by reference) shall be given the meaning most consistent with that of the specific concepts disclosed herein. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0031] Those skilled in the art will understand that the accompanying drawings are primarily for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the innovative objects described herein. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale; in some instances, various forms of the innovative objects disclosed herein may be exaggerated or enlarged in the drawings to facilitate understanding of different features. In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally denote similar features (e.g., functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements).

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an innovative swing device implemented according to an example.

[0033] Figure 2 is a side view of the swing device in Figure 1.

[0034] Figure 3A is an enlarged view of the housing and control components of the magnetic drive unit used in the oscillating device of Figure 1.

[0035] Figure 3B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the housing and control components of the magnetic drive for the swing device of Figure 1.

[0036] Figure 4 is an enlarged perspective view of one part of the magnetic drive component of the swing device of Figure 1, which is coupled to the swing arm.

[0037] Figure 5 is an enlarged front view of this part of the magnetic drive component in Figure 4.

[0038] Figure 6 is an enlarged side perspective view of one portion of the magnetic drive of the swing device of Figure 1, which is coupled to the frame arm and holds the electromagnets.

[0039] Figure 7 is an enlarged top perspective view of that part of the magnetic drive shown in Figure 6.

[0040] Figure 8 illustrates the magnetic drive component coupled to the location of the swing arm, thereby showing the positioning of each optical sensor.

[0041] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the optical sensors shown in Figure 8, and also illustrates a slotted encoder that can move between the light source and the detector of the optical sensors.

[0042] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of the slotted encoder illustrated in Figure 9.

[0043] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of the optical sensors illustrated in Figure 9.

[0044] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of the magnetic actuator with the housing removed, wherein the magnetic actuator includes two permanent magnets and an electromagnet.

[0045] Figure 13 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive illustrated in Figure 12 in the neutral / stationary position.

[0046] Figure 14 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive shown in Figure 13, in which the swing arm is rotated to the left to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0047] Figure 15 is an enlarged front view of the magnetic drive unit shown in Figure 13, wherein when facing the swinging seat, the swing arm is rotated to the right to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0048] Figure 16 illustrates another magnetic drive for a oscillating device comprising three permanent magnets and two electromagnets.

[0049] Figure 17 illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 16, wherein the swing arm is rotated to the left to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0050] Figure 18 illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 16, wherein the swing arm is rotated to the right to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0051] Figure 19 illustrates another magnetic drive for a oscillating device comprising a permanent magnet and an electromagnet.

[0052] Figure 20A illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 19, wherein the permanent magnet and the electromagnet have polarities that cause the swing arm to deflect to the left.

[0053] Figure 20B illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 19, wherein the swing arm is rotated to the left to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0054] Figure 20C illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 19, wherein the permanent magnet and the electromagnet have polarities that cause the swing arm to deflect to the right.

[0055] Figure 20D illustrates the magnetic drive of Figure 19, wherein the swing arm is rotated to the right to the maximum deflection / maximum swing angle.

[0056] Figure 21A illustrates a block diagram of a circuit including a controller for controlling the operation of a oscillating device with a magnetic drive.

[0057] Figure 21B illustrates a method for operating a oscillating device with a magnetic drive.

[0058] Figure 21C illustrates an example operation of the dual optical sensors illustrated in Figures 8 to 11, including the detection of changes in the swing direction.

[0059] Figure 21D illustrates an example control loop of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller used to control the operation of a magnetic actuator in a swinging device.

[0060] Figure 22A illustrates a sliding swing device containing a magnetic drive.

[0061] Figure 22B shows a side view of the sliding member swing device of Figure 22A.

[0062] Figure 23A illustrates a perspective view of the sliding member swing device of Figure 22A, including an unfolded cross-sectional view of one of the parts containing the magnetic drive member to show internal details.

[0063] Figure 23B is an enlarged view of the magnetic drive component of the sliding swing device of Figure 22A.

[0064] Figure 24A illustrates a side view of the swing device of Figures 1 and 2, and further illustrates the 15° orientation of the swing arm relative to the horizontal reference line / plane.

[0065] Figure 24B illustrates a side view of the swing device of Figures 1 and 2, and further illustrates the 30° orientation of the swing arm relative to the horizontal reference line / plane.

[0066] Figure 24C illustrates a side view of the swing device of Figures 1 and 2, and further illustrates the 45° orientation of the swing arm relative to the horizontal reference line / plane.

[0067] Figure 25A illustrates a swing device with a removable freestanding seat, wherein the seat is removed from the swing device support.

[0068] Figure 25B illustrates the swing device of Figure 25A, wherein the seat is coupled to the swing device support.

[0069] Figure 25C illustrates an unfolded perspective view of the seat of the swing device in Figure 25A, with the software removed to show structural details.

[0070] Figure 25D illustrates the seat of Figure 25, with the toy rod, swing arm, and seat base further removed to reveal structural details.

[0071] Figure 26A illustrates a cross-section of the latching mechanism used for the removable seat in Figure 25A.

[0072] Figure 26B is an enlarged view of the latching mechanism of Figure 26A, showing the latch engaged.

[0073] Figure 26C is an enlarged view of the latching mechanism in Figure 26A, showing the latch disengaged.

[0074] Figure 27A illustrates an example air gap between the permanent magnets and electromagnets used in the oscillating device of Figure 1.

[0075] Figure 27B illustrates another example of an air gap between the permanent magnets and electromagnets used in the oscillating device of Figure 1.

[0076] Figure 28 illustrates a permanent magnet with a curved surface when used with any oscillating device as disclosed in this specification.

[0077] Figure 29 illustrates a permanent magnet with a variable surface design when used with the oscillating device of Figure 1.

[0078] Figure 30 is an image of a permanent magnet with a removable metal cover formed as a curved surface.

[0079] Figure 31A shows a side view of a general oscillating device with a magnetic drive.

[0080] Figure 31B illustrates a perspective view of the swing device in Figure 31A.

[0081] Figure 32 shows an enlarged view of the motor illustrated in Figure 31A, with parts of the casing removed to show details.

[0082] Figure 33A illustrates an example motor used in the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having twelve permanent magnets and twelve electromagnets.

[0083] Figure 33B illustrates an example motor for the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having ten permanent magnets and ten electromagnets.

[0084] Figure 33C illustrates an example motor for the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having eight permanent magnets and eight electromagnets.

[0085] Figure 33D illustrates an example motor for the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having six permanent magnets and six electromagnets.

[0086] Figure 33E illustrates an example motor for the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having four permanent magnets and four electromagnets.

[0087] Figure 33F illustrates an example motor for the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having two permanent magnets and two electromagnets.

[0088] Figure 34A illustrates an example motor used in the oscillating device of Figure 31A, having two permanent magnets and one electromagnet.

[0089] Figure 34B shows an example motor of Figure 34A with a partial stator.

[0090] Figure 34C illustrates the example motor of Figure 34A, where the stator is formed as a bracket.

[0091] Figure 35A is a front perspective view of the user interface panel of a swing device according to another innovative implementation.

[0092] Figure 35B is a side perspective view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0093] Figure 35C is a bottom perspective view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0094] Figure 35D is a top perspective view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0095] Figure 35E is a front view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0096] Figure 35F is a side view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0097] Figure 35G is a top view of the user interface panel of Figure 35A.

[0098] Figure 36A illustrates the connection between the swing frame arm and the base member of the swing device as disclosed in this specification.

[0099] Figure 36B illustrates the connection of Figure 36A with the outer cover removed.

[0100] Figure 36C is another view of Figure 36A with the outer cover removed.

[0101] Figure 36D illustrates details of the handle and base components that can be used to form the connection illustrated in Figures 36A to 36C.

[0102] Figure 36E illustrates another view of the base component and shows the cutout for receiving the handle.

[0103] Figure 36F illustrates the area where the handle can be fixed to the welded area of ​​the base component.

[0104] Figure 36G illustrates (before insertion) the bolts that can be used to secure the frame arm to the handle.

[0105] Figure 36H illustrates a cut view of the connection illustrated in Figures 36A to 36C, and shows details of the connection formed between the frame arm, the handle, and the base member.

[0106] Figure 37 illustrates the side view of Figure 2, and various reference additional states of the swing device. Implementation

[0107] The following is a more detailed description of various concepts and practices concerning oscillating devices with magnetic drives and controls. It should be understood that the various concepts presented above and discussed in more detail below can be implemented in a variety of ways. The examples of specific implementations and applications are primarily provided for illustrative purposes to enable those skilled in the art to implement such implementations and alternatives as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0108] The illustrations and exemplary embodiments described below are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to a single specific embodiment. Other embodiments may be implemented by interchangeing some or all of the illustrated or illustrated elements. Moreover, where some elements of the disclosed exemplary embodiments may be implemented partially or entirely using known components, in some instances only the relevant parts of these known components necessary for understanding the embodiments of the invention are described, and detailed descriptions of other parts of these known components are omitted so as not to obscure the embodiments of the invention.

[0109] The various forms of the swinging devices disclosed in this specification encompass small magnetic actuators and controls that allow the rocking chair to start automatically without user intervention. The magnetic components of the actuator are positioned near the swing axis (also referred to as the pivot), thus providing a small, quiet / non-noisy actuator design with a minimum number of components suitable for long-term use. Compared to conventional methods, the magnetic components adjacent to the axis can be relatively close to each other and to the axis, allowing for flexible actuator designs, i.e., using smaller / weaker magnets to achieve the same swinging operation as conventional methods, or using the same / larger magnets to achieve a larger range of swinging motion.

[0110] The various forms of the swinging devices disclosed in this specification also provide for controlling the swinging motion using a dual optical sensing setup (which can detect changes in the swinging direction) without needing to detect the center of the swinging motion. Thus, the swinging control is independent of the strict requirement that the swinging device be placed on a horizontal plane.

[0111] The various forms of the swing devices disclosed in this specification also provide an improved user interface panel for a recessed turntable (for controlling swing parameters). This interface panel provides single-handed operation while protecting the turntable and the underlying control circuitry from accidental damage caused by the caregiver bumping the swing device while moving it, by the rocking chair tipping over, and / or the like.

[0112] The various forms of the rocking devices disclosed in this specification also provide for a reduced base cover (with a single frame arm generated therefrom), thereby providing a smaller, more material-saving design that is still structurally reliable. The single frame arm is securely connected to the base via a handle to prevent rotational loss during rocking motion and is bent to maintain stable operation of the rocking chair.

[0113] The various forms of the swing devices disclosed in this specification are also provided for modular design, which in turn allows the general caregiver / user to easily assemble the components. These components are designed / constructed so that no electrical assembly (e.g., connecting a power source to the magnetic actuator) is required by the caregiver, thus preventing accidental damage to the magnetic actuator due to caregiver misoperation / error.

[0114] These and several other advantages of the swinging devices disclosed in this specification and their corresponding components will now be described in more detail. [Oscillating device]

[0115] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate a swing device 10 (sometimes simply referred to as a "swing") including a swing frame assembly 12, a swing arm assembly 15, and a magnetic drive 20. The swing frame assembly 12 includes a base / base member 13, which is placed on a surface (e.g., the ground) to provide stability for the movement of the swing arm assembly 15 during use. The base member 13 may have any suitable shape (e.g., oval, elliptical, square with rounded corners, etc.) and cross-sectional area. This shape and / or cross-sectional area may be selected based on factors such as, but not limited to, coverage, stability, the material of the base member 13 and / or other parts of the device 10, the orientation of the various parts of the device 10, the orientation with respect to the direction of the swing motion, and / or the like.

[0116] The swing frame assembly 12 also includes a frame arm 14 (sometimes referred to as a "swing frame arm," "frame support member," or variations thereof), which typically extends upward from the base 13 (i.e., away from the surface / ground on which the device 10 is mounted or attached). The frame arm 14 and / or other parts of the swing frame assembly 12 can be composed of any suitable structural components or elements, such as iron tubing, aluminum tubing, and / or the like. In some cases, as illustrated in Figures 1 through 3, the frame arm 14 may have an inherent curvature along its length (i.e., not straight). This curvature can be advantageous for reducing the end-to-end length of the frame arm 14, thereby making the overall height of the swing device 10 suitable for use by the average adult user / caregiver. The reduced length also results in less material used to create the support member 14, and consequently, lighter weight. In some cases, the frame arm 14 may be flexible, such that a user applying some weight to the device 10 (e.g., leaning against the housing 21) can cause the component 14 to flex without breaking. In some cases, the frame arm 14 may be rigid. In some cases, the frame arm 14 may be hollow and have an elliptical cross-section with the main axis facing the interior of the swinging device 10. The wall thickness of the frame arm 14 is typically selected to balance strength, flexibility, and weight, and may be from about 1.2 mm to about 1.6 mm (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therebetween).

[0117] One end of the rotating member 14a is coupled to the frame arm 14 and the other end to the drive assembly 20, so as to mount the drive assembly 20 on the frame arm 14. In some cases, the rotating member 14a may be integrally formed with the frame arm 14, the drive assembly 20, or both. The rotating member 14a and the drive assembly 20 can then jointly define the pivot P-P' around which the rocking chair rotates, as shown in more detail in this specification.

[0118] As best illustrated in Figures 24A to 24C, the frame arm 14, the rotating member 14a, or both can be molded and / or constructed such that the pivot P-P' can be oriented at any suitable angle α1 about the horizontal reference line HR. This reference line HR is typically parallel to the floor or surface on which the device 10 is placed. Figure 24A illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 15°. Figure 24B illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 30°. Figure 24C illustrates the device 10 when α1 is approximately 45°. Typically, this angle α1 can be selected based on factors such as the desired natural frequency and / or half-cycle of the oscillating motion, where a relatively higher α1 value provides for slower motion than a relatively lower α1 value. Another factor could be the experience of the swinging motion for the child in seat 18 (sometimes referred to as the "seat frame", which will be described in more detail below), where a relatively higher α1 value can result in the child experiencing more gliding or swinging motions than a relatively lower α1 value, thus allowing for a greater experience of pendulum motions.

[0119] As illustrated in Figures 24A to 24C, the user interface panel 22 defines an interface plane II' (shown here in the side view), which in turn defines an interface angle γ about the pivot P-P'. This interface angle γ is typically selected to provide easy viewing and interaction with the user interface panel 22 for adult caregivers who are typically above the swing device 10. The interface angle γ can be approximately 90 degrees, approximately 100 degrees, approximately 110 degrees, approximately 120 degrees, approximately 130 degrees, approximately 140 degrees, or greater (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein).

[0120] Please refer again to Figures 1 through 3. The swing arm assembly 15, which supports or holds (e.g., in suspension) the seat / seat frame 18 during use, includes a hub 16 mounted for pivoting movement about the pivot P-P'. Figure 3A also illustrates the pivot plane PP including the pivot P-P'. The pivot plane PP may be a plane passing through the pivot and generally perpendicular to the floor or surface where the device 10 is located. Specifically, the hub 16 is mounted to, coupled to, and or attached to a pivot shaft 19 (best seen in Figure 4) along the pivot P-P', which is carried by the frame arm 14 in a manner that allows rotation about the pivot. For example, the hub 16 may be rigidly mounted on the pivot shaft 19 (which is rotatably coupled to the end of the frame arm 14 via ball bearings (not shown)) so that the hub 16 and the shaft 19 can rotate about the pivot P-P'. As illustrated, the hub 16 may protrude to the outside of the housing 21, for example, through an opening formed in the housing 21. This allows a caregiver to easily couple the swing arm 17 to the magnetic drive during the assembly of the swing device 10 without compromising the integrity of the housing and the drive.

[0121] The swing arm 17 is coupled to the hub 16 outside the housing 21 and extends downward (i.e., toward the base member 13) from the hub 16, bends toward the center of the device 10, and then (as needed, as illustrated) bends upward to couple to the seat frame 18. This coupling between the swing arm 17 and the seat 18 is explained in more detail with reference to Figures 25A to 25D, and Figures 26A to 26C. The seat frame 18 can hold any suitable hardware and / or software (not shown) to form a seat for the child to sit on. The swing arm 17 and the seat frame 18 hang from the hub 16 so that the swing arm 17 and the seat frame 18 can pivot / rotate back and forth in the left-L to right-R direction about the arcuate, circular, and / or generally pendulum-like motion of the pivot shaft 19 and the pivot P-P', as best illustrated in Figure 5. The back-and-forth motion (which may be interchangeably referred to as oscillating motion, pendulum motion, and / or variations thereof) can be described as the characteristic of the oscillation angle α between the pivot P-P' and the L direction, and corresponding to the pivot P-P' or the R direction. It is understood that the oscillation angle α can be different for the L and R directions, for example, when the device 10 is not on a horizontal plane and is tilted, such that the degree of the oscillation motion in one direction may differ from that in the other. The oscillation angle α can be from about 2 degrees to about 20 degrees (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therebetween). During use, the maximum oscillation angle α can be predetermined (specified by the caregiver), limited by the mechanical design of the device 10, limited by the weight of the infant in the seat 18, and / or the like.

[0122] The housing 21 of the rocking device 10 is malleable and sized to cover the moving components of the magnetic drive mechanism and the rocking arm assembly 15. Figures 3A and 3B illustrate a user interface panel 22 coupled to or integrally formed with the housing 21, which includes a set of controls 23. These controls 23 may include preset application or function selection buttons / switches 24, such as for rocking amplitude control (i.e., the degree or extent to which the rocking chair rotates from its neutral or rest position), music, natural sounds, volume control, lighting (e.g., a nightlight (not shown) configured on the hub or seat frame 18 to illuminate a child placed in the rocking device 10 during use) and / or the like. These controls 23 also include a dial 25 for selecting one of the parameters of the selected function. When the user selects rocking amplitude control from the switches 24, the dial 25 can subsequently be used to select one of several preset values ​​(sometimes referred to as setpoints) of the rocking angle α. For example, the user can select a representative value from 1 to 6, where value 1 corresponds to a swing angle α of 3 degrees, value 2 corresponds to a swing angle α of 6 degrees, value 3 corresponds to a swing angle α of 9 degrees, value 4 corresponds to a swing angle α of 12 degrees, value 5 corresponds to a swing angle α of 15 degrees, and value 6 corresponds to a swing angle α of 18 degrees. The amplitude and resolution of the swing angle provided to the user can be based on several factors, including but not limited to child safety considerations, the detection resolution of the swing motion (i.e., via the optical sensor illustrated in Figures 8 to 11), and / or the like. In some cases, the user may be allowed to program and / or directly specify and set the swing angle α during use.

[0123] Rotating and pushing / clicking the dial 25 allows the user / caregiver to switch and select the device parameters to be adjusted. For example, when the volume application is selected, rotating the dial 25 allows adjustment of the desired music volume, etc. The illumination may include visual indicator lights 26 (e.g., a light panel with a set of light-emitting diodes, LEDs) that provide a visual representation of a predetermined setting of the swing amplitude, information about the selected range of each of the selected functions, and / or the like. Figure 3B also illustrates a circuit board 29 on which the controls 23 and a speaker (for playing music, INS, and / or other sounds, not shown) are arranged. The panel 22 includes an opening 28 formed in front of the speaker to allow the music and / or sound to be transmitted to the user. In Figures 3A and 3B, the dial 22 illustrates the dial 25 as extending from the surface 22a of the panel 22, which allows the user to easily position and control it.

[0124] Figures 35A to 35G illustrate another panel design having a user panel 3522 coupled to a housing 3521, and including selection buttons 3524 (e.g., similar to buttons 24), a smooth panel 3526 (e.g., similar to visual indicator lights 26), and a rotary dial 3525. In contrast to the protruding rotary dial 25, the rotary dial 3525 is recessed from a surface 3522a, within a hole, cavity, or recess 3530 in the surface 3522a, such that the surface 3522a includes a recess 3535. The depth of the recess 3535 relative to the surface 3522a can be approximately 0.25 inches, approximately 0.5 inches, approximately 1 inch, approximately 1.5 inches, or greater (inclusive of all values ​​and sub-ranges therein). The turntable 3525 can be sized and positioned to be flush with, non-protruding, minimally protruding, or protruding to a certain extent with the surface 3522a (see, for example, Figures 35B, 35F, and 35G). In some cases, the surface 3522a has curvature at least in the vicinity of the turntable 3525, and the surface of the turntable 3525 can also be curved to conform to that curvature. As illustrated in Figures 35A to 35G, the selection buttons 3524 and the smooth dial 3526 can also be configured to be flush with, non-protruding, minimally protruding (e.g., appearing as a notch to the user), or protruding to a certain extent with the surface 3522a. The user can interact with the selection buttons 3524 by pressing them down, and can interact with the turntable 3525 by inserting their fingers into the cavity 3530 to grasp the side of the turntable 3525. In the design shown in Figures 35A to 35G, the possibility of the buttons 3524 and / or the turntable 3525 being accidentally knocked over, bumped, scratched, pressed, or even damaged due to environmental factors during disassembly and / or assembly is minimized, thereby reducing the possibility that the oscillating device or some features of the device may render it partially or completely inoperable. When the buttons 3524 and the turntable 3525 are physically coupled to the circuit board (e.g., as illustrated in Figure 3B), the flush design also prevents or minimizes misalignment and / or damage to the underlying circuit board, which may also render some or all of the functions of the oscillating device inoperable.

[0125] Please refer again to the view in Figure 3B, which also illustrates the optical sensor 45, the strip 35 (sometimes referred to as a "slotted strip", "optical encoder strip" and its variants) and the magnetic drive with an electromagnet 51 and two permanent magnets 52, 53, all of which are explained in more detail in the following paragraphs. [Magnetic Drive] Component

[0126] Figures 4 through 11 illustrate the magnetic drive 20 of the swing device 10 (sometimes referred to as the "magnetic drive mechanism," the "drive," or variations thereof). Figures 4 and 5 show the arrangement and configuration of the swing arm portion 30 of the magnetic drive 20, i.e., the magnetic drive 20 is directly or indirectly coupled to the components of the swing arm 17. Typically, these components of the swing arm portion 30 can undergo some form of motion (linear, rotational, and / or similar motion) during swinging motion. The pivot shaft 19 is held in place by the frame arm portion 40 of the magnetic drive 20 (i.e., the magnetic drive is directly or indirectly coupled to the components of the frame arm 14 (see Figures 6 and 7)), while allowing rotation. Typically, these components of the frame arm portion 40 can be stationary during swinging motion. The pivot shaft 19 can also rotatably support the swing arm assembly 15 by longitudinally spaced bearings 27 (which can be mounted on an electromagnet or an inductor bracket 151 that holds the electromagnet 51 in place). The swing arm portion 30 houses permanent magnets 52 and 53 within an arcuate portion ARPM centered on the rotation axis P-P', wherein each permanent magnet 52 and 53 has an angular separation different from the pivot plane PP. However, as described in more detail with respect to Figures 31 to 34, any suitable number of permanent magnets can be used. These permanent magnets 52 and 53 are mounted on a permanent magnet holder 152, thereby coupling them to the hub 16 and the swing arm 17.

[0127] Figure 5 illustrates an example of the arrangement of the two permanent magnets 52 and 53, which are angularly positioned around the pivot plane PP (e.g., based on the angular distance of the magnet's geometric center, centroid, and / or other predetermined points) and around the pivot P-P', substantially similar to the maximum swing angle α. The permanent magnets 52 and 53 may be formed of ceramic ferrite. Alternatively, the permanent magnets 52 and 53 may be made of neodymium or other equivalent materials.

[0128] Each of the permanent magnets 52 and 53 defines a north pole and a south pole, and the magnets 52 and 53 may be configured to have alternating poles (sometimes referred to as polarities) facing the pivot shaft 19. For example, magnet 52 may have (e.g., illustrated) its north pole facing away from the pivot shaft 19, while its south pole faces the pivot shaft 19. Magnet 53 may have (e.g., illustrated) its south pole facing away from the pivot shaft 19, while its north pole faces the pivot shaft 19. Alternatively, the permanent magnets 52 and 53 may be configured with the relative polarities described in the foregoing examples.

[0129] The frame arm portion 40 may be fixed to the upper end of the upright frame support 14, for example, to the end of the rotating member 14a, or fixed to the frame arm 14 itself. The frame arm portion 40 supports, is coupled to, and / or includes an electromagnet 51, however, any suitable temporary magnet (which can controllably switch its magnetic poles) may be used. The electromagnet 51 may be controlled (via, for example, a controller such as controller 2102, as explained in more detail with respect to Figures 21A to 21D) to define two poles (north and south poles), which are switchable and oriented such that one of these switchable poles faces the pivot shaft 19 and the magnets 52, 53, while the other faces away.

[0130] As best illustrated in Figures 8 to 11, an optical sensor 45 is fixedly attached to the frame arm portion 40 and communicatively coupled to the controller 2102. During use, the optical sensor 45 is optically coupled to and / or engaged with the slotted strip 35 fixedly attached to the swing arm portion 30. The optical sensor 45 includes sensing brackets 46 and 47, each having corresponding sensing beams 46a and 47a, and is centered around the pivot P-P' (i.e., the plane PP is accessible through the optical sensor 45, as illustrated in Figure 7). For example, each bracket 46 and 47 may include a light-emitting diode (LED, not shown) emitting sensing beams 46a and 47a that can be detected by a photodetector (e.g., a photodiode) disposed opposite its corresponding LED on the bracket. These LEDs can continuously emit beams 46a and 47a during use, and these beams can be continuously detected by the photodetector. Although illustrated herein as collimated beams, it is understood that these beams 46a, 47a may exhibit some degree of convergence and / or divergence (i.e., conical shape). As described in more detail herein, the use of two sensing beams 46a, 47a can be used to detect changes in the direction of oscillation. Furthermore, this combination of each LED and its corresponding photodetector can be considered as an optical sensor, such that optical sensor 45 encompasses a pair of optical sensors as illustrated, and may typically include any suitable number of LED photodetector pairs as optical sensors.

[0131] As illustrated in Figure 10, the slotted strip 35 (sometimes also referred to as an "encoder," "optical encoder," "optical strip," "encoder strip," and variations thereof) includes slots 36 and a body portion 37. As illustrated, the slotted strip 35 may typically be curved in form and defines a curvature / arc portion ARSS centered around the pivot P-P'. The slotted strip 35 may include approximately 6 to approximately 20 slots (reference number 36), including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The swing angle at the pivot P-P' is approximately 1 degree to approximately 3 degrees or greater, including all values ​​and subranges therebetween. The center-to-center distance Cs-Cs' between adjacent slots 36 (see Figure 10) can be approximately 0.15 inches, approximately 0.21 inches, approximately 0.3 inches, approximately 0.4 inches, and approximately 0.5 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and sub-ranges therein). These slots 36 can be formed as cutouts in strips 35. In some cases, these slots 36 may include a thin film, window, and / or other layers disposed thereon, substantially optically permeable at the wavelength(s) of the sensing beams 46a, 47a. In contrast, the body portion 37 can be composed of any suitable material that is optically impermeable at the wavelength(s) of the sensing beams 46a, 47a. The curvature of strip 35 and the distance Cs-Cs' is selectable such that the angular distance between the centers of adjacent slots (i.e., based on the angle formed by the adjacent slots at the pivot P-P') can be from about 1 degree to about 3 degrees, including all values ​​and subranges therein. The number of slots is selectable such that the angular distance between the first and last slots 36 is at least equal to the maximum permissible swing angle α.

[0132] The optical sensor 45 and the slotted strip 35 are positioned such that, during the rotational movement of the swing arm portion 30 about the P-P' axis, the slotted strip 35 passes through the sensor brackets 46, 47 and engages with the sensing beams 46a, 47a. Although the slots 36 allow the beams 46a, 47a to pass through, the body portion 37 blocks this continuity of the beams. In other words, the sensor beams 46a and 47a can be "tripped" by the body portion 37. It is generally understood that, depending on the beam width relative to the width of the slots 36 and the body portion 37 between the slots, the sensing beams may not be completely blocked by the body portion 37. The body portion 37 between adjacent slots can also be referred to as a "photointerrupter" so that the strip 35 can generally be considered as including staggered or continuous slots and photointerrupters.

[0133] Nevertheless, if the optical signal detected at the photodetector of optical sensor 45 is below a predetermined threshold, it can be considered by the controller as the corresponding sensing beam being blocked by a light blocker. Conversely, the sensing beam may not be fully transmitted through the slot 36, but if the optical signal detected at the photodetector is above the predetermined threshold, it can be considered as the corresponding sensing beam being transmitted through one of the slots 36. In some cases, each photodetector of optical sensor 45 may further include a slit that limits the width of the optical signal reaching the slit.

[0134] In the transmission of the beams 46a and 47a, this interruption can be detected by the photodetectors of the sensor 45, and can typically be, for example, a different periodic signal for each photodetector, where the maximum value is at the moment when the slots 36 engage with the beam, and the minimum value is at the moment when the body portion 37 engages with the beam. This is explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 21C. Since the beams 46a and 47a have a finite cross-sectional width (which can be wider or narrower than the slots 36 at the interaction point and the body portion 37 between successive slots), they are not necessarily completely blocked when the beam interacts with the body portion 37. Similarly, not all of the beam (by its width) needs to pass through the slot 36. Therefore, it can be understood that the beams 46a and 47a can be considered to pass through the slot 36 when the detected signal at the photodetectors is above a predetermined threshold. Similarly, the beams 46a and 47a can be considered as being blocked by the body portion 37 when the detected signal at the photodetector is below a predetermined threshold and does not necessarily have to be zero.

[0135] The center-to-center distance Ce-Ce' between the beams 46a and 47a can be approximately 0.25 inches, 0.26 inches, or approximately 0.4 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein). In some cases, this distance Ce-Ce' ensures that at least one complete slot 36 is always positioned between the beams 46a and 47a during oscillating motion. Typically, this distance results in the following situation: when one of the sensing beams (e.g., beam 46a) is positioned on and unobstructed in slot 36, the other beam (e.g., beam 47a) will be on or surrounding the edge of the other slot 36, transitioning from obstructed to unobstructed. Similarly, if one of the sensing beams 46a and 47a is positioned in the area between the slots 36, the other beam will be on or around the edge of the other slot 36, and depending on the direction of the swing, it will change from being blocked to being unblocked or vice versa.

[0136] In some cases, the distance Ce--Ce' ensures that at least each portion of the two slots 36 and the body portion 37 (i.e., the optical interrupter) therebetween remain positioned between the beams 46a and 47a during the oscillating motion. As described in more detail in this specification, this distance Ce--Ce' provides higher resolution in determining the oscillating motion compared to the prior art.

[0137] Figure 8 illustrates a hollow protective cover 49 formed as an extension of the frame support 14 and / or rotating member 14a, mechanically supporting the pivot shaft 19 and the permanent magnets 31 to 33. As illustrated, the protective cover may be curved and / or include a notch to partially or completely accommodate the pivot shaft 19. For example, the curvature of the notch may be selected to match the curvature of the pivot shaft 19. The protective cover 49 may also provide a passage for electrical and / or electronic wiring (e.g., powering the controller 2102, user interface panel 22, and / or the like). Furthermore, the protective cover 49 may provide a mechanical stop for the movement of the swing arm assembly 15, i.e., physically limiting the swing angle. In some cases, a mechanical stop (e.g., the casing of housing 21) may prevent the swing arm assembly 15 from significantly exceeding the required maximum swing angle α, as this could make the swing device 10 unstable and prone to tipping over.

[0138] Several structural configurations of the magnetic actuator 20 offer advantages over conventional methods. For example, the components of the magnetic actuator 20 (e.g., permanent magnets, electromagnets, optical sensors, control circuitry, and / or the like) are not directly formed or coupled to the seat 18. Therefore, the seat design is simplified and can be designed primarily based on mechanical factors rather than electrical or magnetic factors. Safety is also improved by separating these components from the child user of the seat. Furthermore, modularity of the seat design is possible without considering how it might affect the placement of these various components. One advantage is the ability to seamlessly replace the seat upon damage, wear, or even when a new design is available. Additional advantages include a relatively lightweight seat / seat frame, making it easily detachable and transportable, and further enabling integration into other children's products such as car seats, playbeds, strollers, and / or the like.

[0139] In another example, with the removal of the magnetic drive 20 from the seat and the pivot P-P' no longer associated with the seat frame, the components of the magnetic drive 20 can be positioned closer to the pivot P-P' of the rotational / rotational motion compared to conventional methods, thereby resulting in a smaller overall size of the magnetic drive / smaller housing volume. This closer placement also brings the permanent magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 closer together. Since the magnetic forces (both attraction and repulsion) between the two magnetic poles increase with increasing proximity, the closer placement of the permanent magnets and electromagnets results in greater coupling and greater force, which can be used to provide a wider range of oscillating motion, i.e., to convert the electrical energy supplied to the electromagnet 51 into magnetic force and ultimately into mechanical oscillating motion. The closer placement also allows for control of the tolerances between the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51. Conversely, compared to conventional methods, the same range of oscillation motion can be achieved with smaller and / or weaker magnets. This results in space advantages and cost savings due to the use of smaller, weaker magnets and electromagnets. Furthermore, the magnetic actuators (including magnetic actuator 20) described in this specification do not employ any gears and / or gearboxes, thereby avoiding the bulkiness and noise associated with gearbox-based actuators (including DC motor actuators that employ both magnets and gearboxes). [Operation of Magnetic Drive Components]

[0140] Figures 12 to 14 illustrate various configurations and operations of the magnetic drive unit 20, wherein the housing 21 has been removed for clarity of the assembly of the swing arm portion 30 and the frame arm portion 40. Using this exemplary configuration of two permanent magnets 52, 53 (see Figures 4 to 5) and an electromagnet 51 (see Figures 6 and 7), when assembled and in a stationary or neutral position, the electromagnet 51 can be angularly positioned between the magnets 52, 53 relative to the pivot P-P' (e.g., at the midpoint of the angle between the magnets 52, 53), i.e., in an alternating manner. Figures 14 to 15 illustrate that the electromagnets 51, 42 can be positioned in the pivot plane PP in the neutral or stationary position or state. This can be considered as the positioning / state when no starting current is applied to the electromagnet 51, such that non-magnetic forces (such as gravity acting on the movable swing arm assembly 15) primarily determine the positioning of the electromagnet 51 and the magnets 52, 53. Note that when the swing device 10 is in motion, it also briefly obtains the neutral / stationary position.

[0141] In this neutral / stationary position (e.g., see Figure 13), the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 can be considered as being positioned on the side of the pivot P-P' (sometimes referred to as the "first side"), while the seat 18 is positioned on a different side of the pivot P-P' (sometimes referred to as the "second side"). For example, the seat is positioned between the pivot P-P' and the horizontal plane (e.g., the floor) where the oscillating device 10 is located, while the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 are positioned in the space above the pivot P-P'. This distance allows for a smaller design where the seat 18 and the electromagnets 51 / 52, 53 can be positioned closer to the pivot P-P' without the need for other components in between. The compact design (where the electromagnet and the permanent magnet system are closer to the pivot P-P') also allows for the use of smaller and / or weaker magnets, since the magnetic force required to move the permanent magnets across the relatively small arc length of the oscillating motion needs to be sufficient.

[0142] For example, the linear distance or gap between the centroid or geometric center of electromagnet 51 and the pivot P-P' can be at most about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, about 5 inches, or about 6 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein). Or, or furthermore, the linear distance or gap between the geometric center of a surface (e.g., surface 51f) of electromagnet 51 and the pivot P-P' can be at most about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 2 inches, about 2.35 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein). Similarly, the linear distance or gap between the centroid or geometric center of one of the permanent magnets 52, 53 and the pivot P-P' may be at most about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.87 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein). Or, or furthermore, the linear distance or gap between the geometric center of the face (e.g., face 52f) of one of the permanent magnets 52, 53 and the pivot P-P' may be at most about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.25 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 4 inches, or about 5 inches (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein).

[0143] As described in more detail below, when the magnetic actuator is configured and in its initial position as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, and when the electromagnet 51 is energized, the attractive and repulsive forces generated between the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51 can actuate the swing arm assembly 15 to rotate about the pivot P-P' in the L or R direction. During this movement, the magnets 52, 53 can pass close to (e.g., within about 0.02 inches, about 0.025 inches, about 0.03 inches, about 0.04 inches, about 0.05 inches (inclusive)) but not touch the electromagnet 51, thereby maintaining an air gap as the swing arm portion 30 rotates relative to the static frame arm portion 40 about the pivot P-P'.

[0144] The caregiver / user can use the faceplate 22 to initiate the operation of the magnetic drive 20 and set various parameters for operation. For example, the caregiver / user can use the controls 23 and the dial 25 to select the swing angle α (or its equivalent indicator light, such as level 5) for the swing arm assembly 15 and therefore for the magnetic drive 20. The caregiver can also use the controls 23 and the dial 25 to specify the duration for which the swing arm assembly and therefore the magnetic drive device 20 will be operated. If no parameter is selected, a preset value for the maximum swing angle can be used, with continuous operation or a predetermined time limit (e.g., 20 minutes). The maximum swing angle α of the movement of the swing arm assembly 15 can be defined by the spatial positions of the magnets 52, 53, and more specifically by the angular distance between each of the magnets 52, 53 and the electromagnet 51.

[0145] As previously described, the permanent magnets 52 and 53 have pre-established permanent magnets, and Figures 13 to 15 illustrate one example of a pre-established pole. Electromagnet 51 only has poles when energized by current (e.g., from a wall socket or battery). With the magnetic actuator in the state shown in Figure 13, the swing arm assembly 15 will begin to rotate to the left in the direction L (see Figure 14) because the north pole of magnet 52 attracts the south pole of electromagnet 51. This rotation is further enhanced by the repulsion between the south pole of magnet 53 and electromagnet 51. As shown in Figure 14, this rotation is affected by the swing angle α and results in the alignment of the attractive poles between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51.

[0146] Typically, the alignment and attraction between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet (i.e., between their opposite faces / poles) are maximized when the overlap between these opposite faces / poles is maximized. Using magnet 52 and electromagnet 51 in Figure 14 as a representative example of any electromagnet-permanent magnet interaction typically applicable as disclosed in this specification, the attraction between them is maximized when they are aligned as illustrated in Figure 14. In this alignment, face 52f of magnet 52 and face 51f of electromagnet 51 are typically parallel and / or maximized aligned, and perpendicular to the pivot plane PP. The air gap or clearance between these faces 51f and 52f can be about 0.3 inches or less, about 0.2 inches or less, about 0.15 inches or less, about 0.1 inches or less, about 0.05 inches or less, or about 0.025 inches or less (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein). The plane PP can also be located through the geometric center, centroid, or magnetic center of magnet 52 and electromagnet 51. Therefore, some alignments (sometimes referred to as "magnetic alignment") smaller than the maximum alignment can occur between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51 when not in the position illustrated in FIG. 14. For example, if the maximum swing angle α is 18 degrees and the user's input (via dial 22 and turntable 25) is mapped to a swing angle α of approximately 12 degrees, magnet 52 can move from its rest position toward electromagnet 51, but not to the extent of achieving the maximum alignment illustrated in FIG. 14. This can be achieved by modulating the energization of electromagnet 51, thereby affecting the attractive force generated between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51 according to the user's input to the swing angle α, as explained in more detail later.

[0147] In some cases due to inertia, the magnetic actuator may lurch beyond the desired swing angle α. This effect can be offset / reduced by both the weight of the swing arm assembly (including any child in the seat frame 18) and the continuous attractive forces between magnet 52 and electromagnet 51. In some cases, due to similar weight considerations, the magnetic force between electromagnet 51 and the permanent magnets 52, 53 may be insufficient (e.g., too weak to overcome the opposing gravity) to move the swing arm assembly 15 all the way beyond the swing angle α, and may partially move the swing arm assembly toward the positioning.

[0148] During this movement of the swing arm assembly 15, the slotted strip 35 passes through the sensing brackets 46, 47 as previously described, and this movement can be employed by the controller 2102 to detect the direction of movement of the swing arm assembly 15 and when the direction of movement changes. After detecting a change in the direction of movement, the controller 2102 can then switch the poles / polarities of the electromagnet 51 (see Figure 15) so that the north pole of the electromagnet 51 now interacts with the magnets 52, 53.

[0149] Now, electromagnet 51 repels magnet 52 and attracts magnet 53. The resulting magnetic forces (along with gravity) cause the swing arm assembly 15 to rotate in the opposite direction (i.e., the rightward direction R, see Figure 15). Magnetic drive 20 can swing fully or partially through the swing angle α in the rightward direction R. When another change in direction is detected, controller 2102 can switch the pole of electromagnet 51 again, and magnetic drive 20 will move again toward the leftward direction L.

[0150] Figures 16 to 18 illustrate another oscillating device 50. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the components referenced and listed may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of device 10. In contrast to device 10, which includes a single, centrally positioned (i.e., aligned with the pivot plane PP) electromagnet 51 and a pair of permanent magnets 52, 53 angularly offset relative to the pivot plane PP, device 50 comprises three magnets 31 to 33 and two electromagnets 41, 42. Similar to the magnets 31 to 33, the electromagnets 41, 42 may also be positioned in an arc centered on the pivot P-P'. Similar to the permanent magnets, each electromagnet 41, 42 may have a different angular distance from the pivot plane PP surrounding the pivot P-P'. In this specification, Figure 16 illustrates the illustrated example of a two-electromagnetic-body arrangement, wherein the electromagnets 41 and 42 are equidistant from the pivot plane PP and can be about half of the maximum permissible swing angle α around the pivot P-P'.

[0151] In the illustrated device 50, upon activation, electromagnet 41 can be energized to have a south pole facing the magnets 31 to 33, while electromagnet 42 can be energized to have a north pole facing the magnets 31 to 33. This results in attractive forces between magnets 31 and 41, and between magnets 32 and 42, and repulsive forces between magnets 32 and 41, and between magnets 33 and 42. This causes the swing arm assembly 15 to move to the left (see Figure 17). Figure 17 illustrates the maximum leftward deflection of the swing arm assembly 15 (i.e., the maximum swing angle α), which can occur when magnets 32 and 42 are aligned. In some cases, magnet 32 ​​may surge past electromagnet 42 due to momentum, while in other cases, magnet 32 ​​may not achieve the alignment illustrated in Figure 17 (e.g., due to, for example, the weight of the child, insufficient energization of electromagnet 51, and / or the like). Figures 16 to 18 illustrate this scenario when the user selects the maximum swing angle α, resulting in maximum alignment between the electromagnets 41, 42 and the permanent magnets 31, 32 during swing motion in one direction (Figure 17), and maximum alignment between the electromagnets 41, 42 and the permanent magnets 32, 33 during swing motion in the other direction (Figure 18). As described above with respect to Figures 13 to 15, the user can select a smaller swing angle α, in which case the degree of alignment between the electromagnets 41, 42 and the permanent magnets 31 to 33 is lower.

[0152] Figure 18 illustrates the device 50 when the electromagnets 41, 42 are subsequently energized so that their north and south poles face the magnets 31 to 33, respectively, thereby causing the swing arm assembly 15 to rotate to the right. Similar to device 10, device 50 may include an optical sensor (e.g., sensor 45) that cooperates with a slotted strip (e.g., strip 35) and a controller 2102, such as to determine the change in direction of the swing motion and switch the polarities of the electromagnets 41, 42.

[0153] Typically, compared to device 10, this configuration of device 50, with two electromagnets 41, 42 and three permanent magnets 31 to 33, generates a larger amplitude magnetic force (both attraction and repulsion). Therefore, this configuration of device 20 can be used when a larger magnetic force is required for tighter control of the oscillation and / or the like (e.g., with a heavier seat and / or user). In contrast, for the configuration of device 10, centering electromagnet 51 at the pivot plane PP and angularly offset the magnets 52, 53 relative to the pivot plane PP by the maximum oscillation angle α (e.g., 20 degrees) can provide similar operational results to device 10 but requires fewer components and thus reduces costs.

[0154] Figures 19, 20A to 20D illustrate another oscillating device 1900. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the components referenced and listed may be structurally and / or functionally similar to those of devices 10 and / or 50. Device 1900 includes an electromagnet 1941, which is mounted to the oscillating frame assembly 12 via an inductor bracket 1945. A permanent magnet 1931 is attached to the magnet bracket 1935 and centered at the pivot plane PP. In this specification, magnet 1931 is also geometrically centered at the pivot plane PP as a bent magnet, but its dimensions and shape are such that the planes of its north and south poles 1931a, 1931b define axes (i.e., axes perpendicular to the planes of the poles and passing through the pivot P-P'), which are angularly separated from the pivot plane PP to define the maximum oscillation angle α (e.g., 20 degrees, as illustrated in Figure 19). As is generally described for device 10, magnet 1931 and swing arm 1917 are rotatable about pivot shaft 1919 relative to electromagnet 1941.

[0155] Figures 20A and 20B illustrate how rotational motion in the right direction is achieved by an energized electromagnet 1941, for example, by applying a -5V voltage across the coil of the electromagnet as illustrated, causing the electromagnet to align its south pole with the magnet 1931. The south pole of the electromagnet 1941 is attracted to the north pole 1931a and repelled by the south pole 1931b. These attractive and repulsive magnetic forces together cause the swing arm assembly to rotate / oscillate around the pivot P-P' in the right direction. Similarly, Figures 20C and 20D illustrate how rotational motion in the left direction is achieved by an energized electromagnet 1941 with the reverse voltage shown in Figures 20A and 20B, for example, by applying a +5V voltage across the coil of the electromagnet 1941 as illustrated, causing the electromagnet to align its north pole with the magnet 1931. This north pole of the electromagnet 1941 is attracted to the south pole 1931b and repelled by the north pole 1931a. These attractive and repulsive magnetic forces combine to cause the swing arm assembly to rotate / oscillate around the pivot P-P' in the leftward direction. Figures 19, 20A to 20D illustrate this scenario when the user selects the maximum swing angle α, resulting in maximum alignment between electromagnet 1941 and face / pole 1931a (Figure 20B) during swing motion in one direction, and between electromagnet 1941 and face / pole 1931b (Figure 20D) during swing motion in another direction. As described in Figures 13 to 15 above, the user can select a smaller swing angle α, in which case the degree of alignment between electromagnet 1941 and the corresponding poles 1931a and 1931b is lower.

[0156] Device 1900 may generate less magnetic force than devices 10, 50, but may be advantageous when a stronger magnet is available, when a smaller housing (e.g., housing 21) size is required, when a smaller swing angle α range is provided, and / or the like.

[0157] The devices 10, 50, and 1900 have an overall concept: the magnetic drive includes at least one magnetic component (a permanent magnet or an electromagnet) coupled to the oscillating frame assembly 12 or the oscillating arm assembly 15; and at least two magnetic components (permanent magnets or electromagnets) coupled to the other of the oscillating frame assembly 12 or the oscillating arm assembly 15, which is angularly offset relative to the at least one magnetic component. Although device 1900 employs a single magnet 1931 and a single electromagnet 1941, magnet 1931 is designed so that its two poles interact with electromagnet 1941, thus appearing as if two magnetic components are functioning effectively.

[0158] The variations of the magnetic actuators shown in Figures 12 to 20 are within the scope of this invention. For example, device 10 can be modified such that electromagnet 51 is formed on the swing arm assembly 15, and magnets 52 and 53 are formed on the frame assembly 12. As another example, a pair of electromagnets can be mounted on the swing arm assembly 15, while a single permanent magnet can be mounted on the frame assembly 12, wherein the electromagnets and permanent magnets are distributed as in the case of device 50. As yet another example, two electromagnets can be mounted on the frame assembly 12, and a single permanent magnet can be mounted on the arm assembly 15.

[0159] After explaining the design of the specific embodiments of these exemplary examples illustrated in Figures 12 to 20, a more general magnetic drive can be implemented as explained herein. [General Magnetic Actuator]

[0160] Figures 31A and 31B illustrate a generalized swing device 3110, which may be structurally and / or functionally similar to device 10, unless otherwise explicitly stated. Device 3110 includes a base 3113 for stability of the device; and a vertically erected frame assembly 3112 connected to a drive / motor 3120. Device 3110 also includes a swing arm assembly 3115, which includes a swing seat 18. The swing arm assembly 3115 is suspended from the motor 3120 and rotatably coupled to the motor in a pendulum-like reciprocating motion.

[0161] Figure 32 illustrates additional details for motor 3120, which may include a brushless direct current (DC) motor or a portion thereof, as shown in this specification. The stationary portion / stator 3222 of motor 3120 is coupled to frame 3112. Drive shaft 3224 is disposed at the center of stator 3222 and coupled to swing arm assembly 3115, defining a rotational axis similar to the pivot P-P'. Stator 3222 includes a set of inductors or electromagnets 3226 (e.g., similar to electromagnet 51) mounted in a rotating array surrounding drive shaft 3224. Motor 3120 also includes a rotating portion or rotor 3228 comprising a set of permanent magnets 3230 (e.g., similar to magnets 52, 53) also disposed in a rotating array surrounding drive shaft 3224, and configured closer to drive shaft 3224 than the electromagnets 3226.

[0162] Figures 33A to 33F illustrate how the number of electromagnets 3226 and magnets 3230 can be selected based on the required maximum swing angle, assuming that the swing motion in any direction will not exceed 90 degrees. Figure 33A illustrates how, with twelve magnets 3230 and twelve electromagnets 3226, the angular distance between adjacent magnets and electromagnets is approximately 30 degrees, and the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 15 degrees. Figure 33B illustrates how, with ten magnets 3230 and ten electromagnets 3226, the angular distance between adjacent magnets and electromagnets is approximately 36 degrees, and the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 18 degrees. Figure 33C illustrates how, with eight magnets 3230 and eight electromagnets 3226, the angular distance between adjacent magnets and electromagnets is approximately 45 degrees, and the maximum allowable swing angle can be set to 22.5 degrees. Figure 33D illustrates a configuration with six magnets 3230 and six electromagnets 3226, showing how to make the angular distance between adjacent magnets approximately 60 degrees, with a maximum allowable swing angle set to 30 degrees. Figure 33E illustrates a configuration with four magnets 3230 and four electromagnets 3226, showing how to make the angular distance between adjacent magnets approximately 90 degrees, with a maximum allowable swing angle set to 45 degrees. Figure 33F illustrates a configuration with two magnets 3230 and two electromagnets 3226, showing how to make the angular distance between adjacent magnets approximately 180 degrees, with a maximum allowable swing angle set to 90 degrees.

[0163] Figure 34A illustrates how the designs of Figures 33A to 33F can be minimized to use a single electromagnet 3226 and a pair of permanent magnets 3230, since each of the magnets 3230 is kept within the angular range defined by the two closest electromagnets 3226. Therefore, the rotor can also be minimized to obtain a partial rotor 3428, thereby reducing the weight of operation. As illustrated in Figure 34A for illustrative purposes only, for the purposes of various swing designs illustrated in Figures 31A to 31B, where the pivot is typically horizontal or near horizontal, this design can use a 30 or 60-degree distance between the magnets 3230 (including all values ​​and sub-ranges therebetween), resulting in maximum swing angles of 15 or 30 degrees respectively.

[0164] In other words, the selection of the number of electromagnets, the number of permanent magnets, and the angular distance between adjacent electromagnets / permanent magnets can be based on the angle formed by the pivot relative to the surface on which the rocking chair is located. For example, the specific embodiment in Figure 33F (where a 90-degree swing angle may be unsuitable when the pivot is typically horizontal or nearly horizontal) is well-suited for rocking chairs with typically vertical pivots. This rocking chair may be similar to that illustrated and described in U.S. Patent No. 9,433,304, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0165] From the optimization illustrated in Figure 34A, Figure 34B shows how the stator can also be minimized to obtain a partial stator 3422. Furthermore, minimization, component reduction, and reduced operating weight can be achieved with the design illustrated in Figure 34C, where the partial stator 3422 is formed as a bracket suspending the electromagnet 3226 above a partial rotor 3428. The stator 3422, rotor 3428, and swing arm 3115 can all be configured on the shaft 3224. Then, the specific embodiments of Figures 12 to 20 can be considered as exemplary embodiments of the general embodiment of Figure 34C. [Controller Circuitry and Operation]

[0166] Figure 21A illustrates a controller circuit 2100 for controlling the operation of any of the swinging devices (e.g., devices 10, 50, 1900) disclosed herein. For simplicity, the circuit is explained with reference to device 10, and the various parts / components of the circuit 2100 may be formed on the circuit board 29 illustrated in Figure 3B. The circuit 2100 includes a controller 2102 and may further include a memory or database (not shown) communicatively coupled to the controller. The controller 2102 may be configured to run and / or execute any suitable processing device of a set of instructions or program code associated with device 10. The controller 2102 may be, for example, a general-purpose processor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or the like.

[0167] The memory / database may encompass, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory buffers, hard disks, databases, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, and / or the like. The memory / database may store instructions to cause the controller 2102 to execute programs and / or functions associated with device 10.

[0168] Circuit 2100 may further include a network interface (not shown) for communicating with one or more external devices (e.g., a remote device, a smartphone, other computing devices, and / or the like) and / or a virtual assistant (e.g., Amazon Alexa), for example, for remote control of device 10. The communication with the external devices may be direct, for example via Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near-Field Communication (NFC), Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), and / or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the communication with the external devices may be via one or more networks implemented as wired and / or wireless networks (e.g., Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Virtual Network, Telecommunications Network, and / or Internet, etc.). As is known in the art, any or all communications may be secure (e.g., encrypted) or insecure.

[0169] The controller 2102 is coupled to a power source 2104 of the device, which may be, for example, a utility power source, a battery, a rechargeable battery, and / or the like. For example, the controller 2102 receives a 6V DC power input from the power source 2104. The circuit 2100 also includes a power button 2106 (e.g., disposed on the panel 22) coupled to the controller 2102 to allow the user to power on and off the device 10. The controller 2102 receives input from the buttons / switches 24 to allow the user to select device parameters to control the swing amplitude, swing duration, music, and / or the like. The controller 2102 also receives input from the dial / knob 25, which allows the user to control the selected device parameters, such as the degree of swing (i.e., the swing angle α), how long the rocking chair should run, and / or the like. Figure 21A also illustrates that the controller 2102 can control the operation of the visual indicator lights 26 and individual lights (e.g., LEDs) that may be formed on each of the buttons 24. The controller 2102 can also control music playback via the music driver 2116 of the circuit 2100, thereby being coupled to the speaker configured on the circuit board 29.

[0170] Circuit 2100 also includes a driver circuit 2120 for controlling and switching the polarity of a voltage signal applied to electromagnet 51, thereby switching the magnetic poles of the electromagnet. The driver circuit 2120 may be, for example, an H-bridge circuit with an output voltage line coupled to the electromagnet 51. When more than one electromagnet (e.g., electromagnets 41, 42) is used, they can be connected in parallel to the H-bridge circuit with opposite polarities. Typically, whenever more than one electromagnet is used, adjacent electromagnets can be connected in opposite directions. Therefore, the same voltage / polarity applied by circuit 2120 will cause the electromagnets 41, 42 to have relative magnetic polarities, which switch when the voltage polarity is switched.

[0171] Please refer back to the design of the single electromagnet 51, as illustrated in Figure 21A. The drive circuit 2120 is also coupled to the power supply 2104 to receive, for example, a 6V signal. It can simultaneously power the drive circuit 2120 and provide the voltage signal to be applied to the electromagnet 51. This voltage signal can be, for example, a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal. Figure 21A also illustrates the communication coupling between the controller 2102 and the optical sensor 45, which enables the controller 2102 to control the operation of the light sources of the optical sensor 45 and receive the detected optical signals from the photodetectors of the optical sensor 45.

[0172] The swing mechanism 10 may include other components (not shown) that can be read and / or controlled by the controller 2102, such as, for example: an ambient light sensor for controlling the brightness of any of the LEDs on the housing 21 to turn the night light on and off; a motion sensor for turning the night light on and off when a user touches it; a weight sensor coupled to the seat frame 18 to sense whether the seat is in place and / or whether a child is sitting on the seat; a tilt sensor, a gyroscope and / or a gyroscope meter coupled to the seat frame 18, which can be used to deactivate the mechanism 10 when the seat is tilted or oriented in a way that makes use unsafe; and / or one or more reed switches for detecting the positioning of the permanent magnets during the swing motion. For example, one or more reed switches may be configured on the swing frame assembly 12 at a preset angle relative to the pivot P-P' and the pivot plane PP. This can be detected when the permanent magnets (e.g., magnets 52, 53) approach the reed switch during oscillation and used to sense the oscillation angle at the time of detection.

[0173] Figure 21B is a flowchart detailing an exemplary method 2125 for operating the swing device 10, which can be executed by circuit 2100 (e.g., by controller 2102). Method 2125 begins at step S1, for example, after the user powers on the device 10 and selects the swing angle α. In step S2, a check is performed if the selection of the swing angle α has changed. When this check is performed at least for the first time after the user makes a selection (i.e., the device is stationary and the swing angle is currently zero), the latest value of the swing angle is read in step S3. In this specification, step S3 represents six exemplary values ​​or "setpoints (SP)" of the swing angle that the user can set, from SP1 of 3 degrees to SP6 of 18 degrees, which is the maximum allowable swing angle. After the setpoint is determined in S3, in step S4, the maximum value of a voltage signal (e.g., a PWM signal, illustrated in Figure 21B) is applied to the electromagnets 41, 42 with a given (e.g., first) polarity. Referring to Figures 13 to 15, the electromagnet 51 is energized and, depending on its polarity, will induce a swinging motion in one direction or the other (i.e., to the left or to the right) without any additional input from the user. That is, the user does not need to push the device 10 to initiate the swinging motion, or do anything other than provide a set point for the swinging motion. Also in step S4, a clock or timer (referred to as a "half-period timer" in Figure 21B) is triggered to reflect the duration of the voltage signal of the given polarity that has been applied.

[0174] Then, controller 2102 executes self-starting sequence / loop 2125a, which allows the swinging device 10 to initiate swinging motion upon input from the user via interface panel 22, without manual pushing by the user (e.g., in the case of several conventional devices). Self-starting can be illustrated by the specific embodiments of Figures 13, 16, and 19, influenced by the off-axis placement of the permanent magnets and electromagnets during rest, such that powering the electromagnets substantially immediately results in attractive and repulsive forces that can induce swinging motion. Sequence 2125a includes, in step S5, reading the output of the photodetectors, wherein a reading of "0" for a photodetector indicates that its corresponding beam (e.g., one of the beams 46a, 47a) is blocked, and a reading of "1" indicates that its corresponding beam is detected. In step S5, the output or state of at least one photodetector is read. In step S6, it is determined whether the output of the photodetector has changed. This can be done on one or both of these photodetectors, meaning it is not necessary to read the outputs of both photodetectors for the purpose of executing the self-starting sequence 2125a. For simplicity, it is assumed that one photodetector is read in steps S5 and S6, and the change in its output represents some movement of the magnetic actuator caused by the application of the maximum voltage signal to the electromagnet in step S4. When the distance between two adjacent slots 36 of the slotted strip 35 is about 2 degrees, the oscillating motion corresponding to the change in the state of the photodetector is about just greater than zero degrees (e.g., when the beam 46a is just positioned inside the slot and adjacent to the edge of the slot, and the oscillating motion pushes it to the outside of the adjacent slot edge) to about 1 degree (e.g., when the beam 46a is just positioned inside the slot and adjacent to the edge of the slot, and the oscillating motion moves the beam 46a across the slot and pushes it out of the relative slot edge), wherein the average is about 0.5 degrees, about 1 degree, about 2 degrees, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees or greater (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein).

[0175] If no change in motion / state is detected in step S6, then in step S7, the timer started in step S4 is checked against a predetermined time period (illustrated as "half period" in Figure 21B) to determine whether the duration of the applied voltage signal of the first polarity is greater than, for example, 700 ms. Typically, this time period can be from approximately 400 ms to approximately 900 ms (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges). In some cases, this time period can be approximately 700 ms. If the timer value is greater than or equal to the predetermined time period, then in step S8, the polarity of the voltage signal applied to the electromagnet 51 is switched, for example, from the polarity shown in Figure 14 to that shown in Figure 15. In step S9, the timer is reset, and in step S10, control is returned to step S1. As is done in step S9 and at various other times during method 2125 (explained later), the control law is passed back to step S1 so that any user change to the swing angle / setpoint can be quickly implemented in steps S2 to S4; if the user does not make any such change, control returns to the self-starting sequence 2125a and proceeds to step S5.

[0176] If the timer value is less than the predetermined time period in step S7, the time value continues to increase, and the self-starting sequence 2125a loops back to step S5. Thus, during the self-starting sequence 2125b, the controller 2102 will periodically switch in step S8, where the periodicity is based on the predetermined time period and the polarity is based on the electromagnet 51 until some oscillating motion is in progress, as can be detected in step S5.

[0177] Once some oscillating motion is detected based on the analysis in step S6, the controller 2102 can execute the oscillating motion control sequence / loop 2125b. In step S11, as the initial estimate of the oscillating motion is achieved during the self-starting sequence 2125a, the oscillating angle measurement (illustrated as "AngleCount" in Figure 21B) which was set to zero at startup is incremented by 1 degree. In step S12, the updated oscillating angle measurement is stored for use during the oscillating angle control sequence / loop 2125c, which will be described later.

[0178] In step S13, the controller 2102 continuously reads or monitors the light detectors of the optical sensors 35 to determine the swing direction and whether it has changed, as shown in more detail in FIG21C. Referring to FIG21C, for ease of explanation, the change of direction is interpreted as the swing motion being initiated at one end of the swing motion, as represented by state 2130a ("starting point") (in which the swing angle is at its maximum and the swing speed is substantially zero). Then, the swing device 10 moves past state 2130b to state 2130c, where the swing angle is substantially zero and the swing speed is at its maximum. During this movement, the sensing beams 46a and 47a are blocked and transmitted by the slotted strip 35 in different ways, which can be detected by the controller 2102 as "0" (or "LOW", when the beam is blocked) or "1" (or "HIGH", when the beam is not blocked and is detectable), as illustrated in the diagram of Figure 21C. For example, when the oscillating motion is between states 2130a and 2130b, that is, when beam 46a is not blocked but beam 47a is blocked, the controller can detect "10" (typically illustrated as readout / readout block 2135a).

[0179] The oscillating motion then continues through the readout of "11" to the readout of "01" (see readout 2135b), to "00", and then back to "10" (see readout 2135c). Since the oscillating motion is accelerating from state 2130a through 2130b to 2130c, readout 2135c has a shorter duration than readout 2135a (i.e., a reduced thickness, as illustrated in Figure 21C), and readout 2135d (at state 2130c) has an even shorter duration because the oscillating motion is at its maximum speed.

[0180] As illustrated in Figure 21C, any of these transitions between multiple readouts can be used to determine the direction of the oscillating motion. When the readouts change in the relative direction (i.e., as illustrated in readout block 2135e, from "10" to "00", to "01", to "11", and back to "10"), the oscillating motion can be determined in the relative direction (in this specification, from state 2130e to state 2130f). Thus, the adjustment size of the slots in the slotted strip 35 and the distance Cs-Cs' between the beams 46a and 47a can be selected to create a complete slot 36 between the beams 46a and 47a, thereby allowing the readout-based direction determination as explained in this specification. Furthermore, a change in the readout of only one of the beams 46a and 47a is sufficient to determine the oscillating direction. As explained above regarding the self-starting sequence 2125a, this determination can be made within an average oscillation of about 0.5 to 4 degrees.

[0181] Therefore, when the cyclic transition between these reads reverses, controller 2102 can determine that a change in direction (e.g., from clockwise / CW to counterclockwise / CCW, or vice versa) has occurred. As illustrated in readout block 2135f, when the oscillating motion is in state 2130e, it will reverse direction. This is detected by controller 2102 as a transition from "10" to "11" and then back to "10". If there is no change in direction, then on the other hand, the transition will have been from "10" to "11" to "01", similar to the previous explanation regarding readouts 2135a and 2135b.

[0182] Figure 21C also typically illustrates this concept of half-cycle 2140 (e.g., approximately 300 ms, approximately 500 ms, approximately 700 ms (as previously illustrated), approximately 900 ms, approximately 1 s, approximately 1.2 s, approximately 1.5 s). s (including all values ​​and sub-ranges therein) is the time it takes for the motion to travel from one end of the motion (state 2130a), through the swing angle α to the center (state 2130c), and through the swing angle α to the other end of the motion (state 2130e). Then, another half-cycle is spent for the motion to travel from state 2130e, through state 2130f to the center 2130g, and then back to state 2130a through state 2130h. The determination of a change in swing direction (which occurs in brief instantaneous states between multiple half-cycles) is usually made at the beginning of the next half-cycle, because that is when readback is detectable, as explained previously regarding readout block 2135f.

[0183] Please refer back to Figure 21B. If there is no change in the swing direction as determined in step S13, then in step S15, the control returns to step S1. This is advantageous, as explained earlier, for reassessing whether the user has changed the swing setpoint. Since the device is now in motion and the motion detection criterion in step S6 has been met, the control quickly returns to motion control sequence 2125b, where the swing angle measurement continues to increment in step S11 because the device 10 continues to swing in the same direction.

[0184] If a change in the swing direction is determined in step S13, the swing angle measurement is reset to zero in step S14. Since the device 10 is now swinging in the opposite direction, the polarity of the electromagnet 51 can be switched (e.g., as between Figures 14 and 15), and this is done in a manner similar to that explained for step S8 in step S18. Subsequently, the controller 2102 can execute the swing angle control sequence / loop 2125c to determine whether the degree of swing motion corresponds to the setpoint specified by the user in step S3, and this is achieved as follows: In step S19, the stored value of the swing angle measurement from step S12 (because the current value of the swing angle measurement has been reset in step S14) is compared with the desired setpoint specified in step S3. If the swing angle measurement is equal to or exceeds the desired setpoint, this indicates that the swing motion has exceeded or will exceed the one specified by the user. In this scenario, in step S20, the voltage signal applied to the electromagnet (e.g., as a PWM signal) is set to zero and / or turned off to allow the oscillating motion to decrease on its own. In step S21, control then returns to step S1.

[0185] If, in step S19, it is determined that the measured swing angle is less than the set point specified by the user in step S3, it indicates that the swing device 10 is still making angular movements toward achieving the desired set point, but has not yet done so. In this situation, the controller 2102 can execute the control loop 2125cl (which applies the voltage signal to the electromagnet 51 with the target modulation that oscillates and converges over time between the measured swing angle and the desired set point), thereby indicating and allowing the gradual accumulation of swing motion toward the desired swing angle. Thus, the voltage signal applied to the electromagnet 51 after the polarity change indicates the final swing motion completed in the specified direction.

[0186] The control loop 2125cl, illustrated and explained herein as a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loop, can be any other suitable feedback loop (e.g., controlled damping) capable of estimating the amplitude of the voltage signal to be applied to the electromagnet 51 to reduce the difference between the desired setpoint and the observed swing angle. In this specification, in step S22, the difference or error value is calculated as the difference between the desired setpoint and the observed swing angle. In step S23a, the error value is used to calculate a proportional term based on a predetermined proportional coefficient Kp. Typically, the calculated proportional term is based on the current error value, i.e., the one calculated immediately prior to step S22. In step S23b, the error value is also used to calculate an integral term based on a predetermined integral coefficient Ki. Typically, the calculated integral term is based on the current and past error values, i.e., the one calculated immediately prior to step S22 and during previous execution of the control sequence 2125cl in step S22. In some cases, control sequence 2125cl may also encompass the differential term calculated based on the error value in step S23c, reflecting the rate of change of the error value. Then, in step S24, the terms calculated in steps S23a, S23b, and, if necessary, in S23c are summed to generate a control output. In step S25, the control output is used to determine the amplitude of the voltage signal to be applied to the electromagnet 51, except for the polarity change affected in step S18. In step S26, the control system returns to step S1.

[0187] Thus, the multiple states of method 2125 help to obtain and maintain the desired swing angle based on the detected change in direction, without having to determine the center of the swing motion, which is common in conventional methods. This is particularly advantageous when the swing device 10 may be placed on an inclined, oblique, and / or generally non-horizontal surface, so that the center of the swing motion may be different from the geometric center of the device. In some cases, the device 10 also does not detect and / or estimate the speed of the swing motion.

[0188] Figure 21D illustrates a control sequence / loop 2150 that can be executed by controller 2102 to manage the swing control. Unless otherwise indicated, various states of the control sequence may be similar to other states of control sequence 2125cl and method 2125. In step SS1, an error value 2115 is generated by comparing the desired swing angle, set point, or "desired" amplitude 2155 previously selected by the user (e.g., in step S3, etc.) with the observed swing or output swing amplitude 2140 determined based on optical sensor 45. As explained above with respect to Figure 21B, if the swing amplitude 2140 is greater than or equal to the desired swing angle, the power supply to the electromagnet can be cut off. If the swing amplitude is less than the required swing angle, the error can be input into a PID algorithm, which combines the proportional, integral, and derivative terms 2175a, 2175b, and 2175c respectively to generate coefficients 2170 (integral coefficient 2170a, proportional coefficient 2170b, derivative coefficient 2170c) in step SS2 representing the output voltage and / or input power (e.g., a relatively increased input PWM duty cycle) 2182 that can be applied to the electromagnet 51. This allows the swing amplitude 2190 to increase until it reaches the setpoint amplitude 2155. [Rocking chair base]

[0189] Figures 36A to 36H illustrate how to connect the swing frame arm 3614 (e.g., similar to frame arm 14) to the base member 3613 (e.g., similar to base member 13). Figure 36D illustrates details of a handle 3620 that can be inserted into the base member 3613 to receive the frame arm 3614. Specifically, one first end 3624a of the handle 3620 can receive the frame arm 3614, while the other / second end 3624b can be sized and configured for insertion into the base member 3613.

[0190] Referring specifically to the coupling between the handle 3620 and the base member 3613, the handle 3620 may include a pair of tabs 3626 formed at its second end 3624b. The base member 3613 may include a handle opening 3630 to receive the second end 3624b and allow the second end to be fitted into the internal volume of the base member 3613. More or fewer tabs may be used, and in some cases, such tabs may be absent.

[0191] The base member 3613 also includes a pair of tab openings 3628 to allow the tabs 3626 to pass through. The number of tab openings can generally be selected based on the number of tabs, and in the absence of tabs, there may be no tab openings, or there may be a single opening substantially similar to the shank opening 3630.

[0192] After insertion, a first weld 3621a (e.g., a full circumference weld) may be performed at the handle opening 3630 between the handle opening of the handle 3620 and the body, and a pair of second welds 3621b may be performed between the tabs 3626 and the tab openings 3628 to secure the handle 3620 to the base member 3613. As best illustrated in FIG36H, when inserted, the handle 3620, or at least the portion of the handle 3620 that engages the base member 3613 as illustrated, is configured with a handle angle β relative to the normal axis N, wherein the axis N may be orthogonal to the surface on which the base member 3613 is placed. The handle angle β may be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, or greater (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein).

[0193] During user assembly, as described in more detail below, the user inserts the frame arm 3614 into the first end 3624a of the handle 3620. The dimensions of the frame arm 3614 and the handle 3620 are such that the inserted frame arm 3614 can fit within the handle 3620 until it engages with the recess 3623 within the handle 3620, preventing further insertion of the swing frame arm 3614 into the handle. The recess 3623 also encompasses a groove formed on the outer surface of the handle 3620, which serves as a visual guide for the user to correctly insert the handle 3620 into the base member 3613.

[0194] The shank 3620 may include a pair of shank holes 3622 formed therethrough to allow insertion of bolts during assembly. As illustrated, these shank holes 3622 may be substantially circular. Similarly, the frame arm 3614 may include a pair of arm holes 3634 formed therethrough (which engage the swing arm with the recess 3623 after insertion of the shank 3620 into the swing arm 3614) which can be aligned with the shank holes 3622. As best illustrated in FIG36G, the arm holes 3634 facing the center of the swing device may be molded to prevent rotation of the bolts 3632b once inserted through the shank holes 3622 and the arm holes 3634. For example, the arm holes 3634 are illustrated as square or rectangular.

[0195] Each of the bolt assemblies 3632 may include a first bolt 3632a, which may include a head and an external thread; and a second bolt 3632b, which may include a head and an internal thread (which may mate during assembly to receive the external thread of its corresponding first bolt 3632a). The second bolt 3632b may also include a boss 3633, which is molded to engage with the arm holes 3634 to prevent rotation of the second bolt 3632b once inserted. Once the second bolt 3632b is in place, the user is allowed to screw in its corresponding first bolt 3632a without having to hold the second bolt 3632a in place.

[0196] When these bolt assemblies 3632 are tightened (e.g., by screwing the first bolt 3632a into the second bolt 3632b), pressure is applied to the swing arm 3614, causing it to expand within the handle 3620. This results in a tighter, more rigid connection between the swing arm 3614 and the handle 3620, and consequently with the base member 3613. This tight connection between the swing arm 3614 and the handle 3620 also prevents or mitigates rotational losses during swinging motion.

[0197] Figure 36A illustrates how, after assembly, the outer cover 3618 (e.g., a plastic cover) is placed on the connection, essentially covering the handle 3620 to prevent any damage from mechanical shocks or other events. [Rocking chair stability]

[0198] Figure 37 illustrates how the shank angle β and the curved design of the swing frame arm 14 allow for a relatively small base member 13 while still providing a structurally sound design for the swing device 10. Compared to a corresponding design with a straight frame arm 14, a smaller base member 13 can comprise a base member with a smaller width, shorter length, smaller perimeter, and / or smaller area. The base member 13 defines a vertical cover surface FP on the horizontal floor / surface / ground on which it rests; that is, the cover surface FP can be considered as a vertical extension of the frame of the base member 13 extending directly upward from the floor. The swing frame arm can be curved as illustrated and can be considered as comprising two portions 14a and 14b, which are generally continuous. The first swing arm portion 14a defines the shank angle β at its connection point with the shank 3620 and bends away from the cover surface FP such that portion 14a is completely outside the cover surface. The second swing arm portion 14b bends backward toward the cover surface FP. Figure 37 illustrates the entirety of the second swing arm portion 14b and a portion of the housing 21 located outside the cover surface FP. In some cases, at least one portion of the second swing arm portion 14b may be within the cover surface FP, such that the entire housing 21 may be located inside the cover surface FP.

[0199] The curvature of the frame arm 14, as illustrated, also allows for the curvature in the swing arm 17, thereby allowing the seat 18 to be positioned relatively close to the center of the swing device 10. In contrast to two or more swing arms as seen in some conventional methods, a single frame arm 14 is used with the frame arm bent outwards from the base to minimize any space issues. Furthermore, the curved frame arm 14 and the curved swing arm 17 provide sufficient clearance for installing and removing the seat 18, while allowing the user interface panel 22 to be positioned deeper within the cover FP, allowing easier access to the swing device 10 for adults / caregivers.

[0200] The curved frame arm 14 (and, or, the curvature of the swing arm 17) also allows not only the smaller coverage surface FP of the base member 13, but also the overall center of gravity of the swing device 10 to remain closer to, for example, the geometric center of the coverage surface compared to using, for example, a straight frame arm. This stability is established and maintained when the seat 18 extends outside the coverage surface FP as illustrated in a stationary position, when a child / user is positioned in the seat 18, when the seat 18 is repositioned to a lateral position, and even when the seat 18 moves to a greater extent outside the coverage surface FP during swinging motion.

[0201] More specifically, and as illustrated in Figures 1 and 37, the base member 13 defines the cover surface FP, the base width BMW, and the base depth BMD. When stationary, at least some portion of the seat 18 extends outside the cover surface FP along the depth BMD of the base member 13. During a rocking motion, the horizontal travel of the seat 18 (i.e., the rocking motion as projected onto the floor on which the rocking chair rests) can further cause additional portions of the seat 18 to move outside the cover surface FP along the width BMW, at least at the ends of the rocking motion. In some cases, the maximum rocking angle α can limit the seat 18 from rocking outside the cover surface FP at the ends of the rocking motion. In some cases, the horizontal travel or lateral distance between such degrees of rocking motion can be about 1 foot, about 1.5 feet, about 2 feet, about 2.5 feet, about 3 feet, or longer (inclusive of all values ​​and subranges therein).

[0202] These features of the rocking chair also provide a reduced distance between the center of gravity of the rocking chair and the axis of rotation defined by the seat 18 when a user / child is in the seat 18. For illustrative purposes only, Figure 37 illustrates the axis of rotation RA-RA' defined by the seat 18 and an example center of gravity CG of the rocking chair, so that the center of gravity of the device 10 does not need to be located within these components of the device. Even with an anthropomorphic test device (ATD) configured in the seat 18, the linear distance / offset DCG-RA between CG and the axis RA-RA' can still be up to 0.5 inches, up to 1 inch, up to 1.5 inches, up to 2 inches, up to 5 inches, including all values ​​and subranges therein.

[0203] Based on all these features, the swing device 10 can at least partially remain upright without tipping over when placed on a 20-degree inclined surface and configured in the seat 18 with an ATD (e.g., a newborn testing device, a six-month-old infant testing device, and / or the like, according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification). [Oscillating Mechanism Component]

[0204] To allow for user self-assembly, the oscillating device as disclosed in this specification may be manufactured, packaged, sold, and / or shipped as a kit containing multiple parts (with instructions for user assembly). For simplicity, reference is made to the oscillating device 10 herein, which may include a first component comprising an oscillating frame assembly 12 on which the magnetic drive 20 is mounted. This tight and critical coupling between the frame assembly 12 and the magnetic drive 20 minimizes any user error and potential damage during assembly. The magnetic drive 20 may be coupled to the hub 16.

[0205] The first component may also include a power delivery circuit, such as a power cable 3616 with a wall plug or adapter (see Figures 36A to 36H), which can be used to connect the magnetic actuator 20 to an electrical wall socket. The power cable 3616 may be partially disposed within the hollow protective cover 49 and exit the assembly via the swing frame assembly 12, close to the base of the assembly (i.e., close to the floor / surface on which the swing device 10 is placed). In this way, the power delivery mechanism / circuit is completely disposed within the first component, preventing the user from approaching the magnetic actuator assembly and ensuring that power is delivered to the magnetic actuator 20 without any user force.

[0206] The first component may also include an outer cover 3618, which is pre-positioned on the frame arm 14 (e.g., glued or secured in place on the frame arm above the arm hole 3634). Thus, after the caregiver bolts the frame arm 14 to the handle 3620, the outer cover can slide down to cover the handle.

[0207] The kit may further include a swing arm 17, which serves as a second detachable component coupled to the magnetic drive 20 (and more specifically to the hub 16). Furthermore, the kit may include (as a third detachable component) a seat / seat frame 18, which can then be latched into place by the user, as shown in Figures 26A to 26C.

[0208] In some cases, for ease of user assembly, there is no electrical coupling between the first component and other components. For example, by eliminating the electrical coupling between the first component and the seat 18, the user does not need to deal with the issue of pulling cables through the hub 16, swing arm 17, etc. If the seat 18 does have a power requirement, such as a motor drive (or more generally, any power-consuming component) to vibrate the seat 18 during use, then the seat 18 may include its own power source, independent of the power delivery circuitry of the first component. For example, the seat 18 may be configured to use AA batteries, AAA batteries, plug-in power inputs, and / or the like to power the power-consuming component. The kit may include this additional power source.

[0209] The kit may also include base member 13, which may serve as a single base of the same or different sizes (e.g., as a fourth part) or as a two-base assembly (e.g., as fourth and fifth parts). For example, each base assembly may typically be C-shaped and have telescopic ends that mate with the telescopic ends of another base assembly. As described above with respect to Figures 36A to 36H, base member 13 may include a handle (e.g., handle 3620) welded thereto, which may serve as a receptacle for the swing frame arm 14 of the swing frame assembly 12. The kit may also include additional parts, such as, for example, bolts 3632a, bolts 3632b, and / or the like. [Glide rocking chair with magnetic drive]

[0210] Figures 22A and 22B show a gliding swing device 2200 with a magnetic actuator and control as described in this specification. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the components referenced and listed may be structurally and / or functionally similar to components of any other device disclosed in this specification (e.g., device 10, etc.). Device 2200 includes a frame 2220 that holds and / or supports a seat 2210, arms 2230, and a set of two housings 2240 suspended from the frame 2220. As illustrated in Figures 22A, 22B, and 23A, a magnetic actuator 2235 is disposed within one of the housings 2240. The magnetic drive 2235 is illustrated as having (similar to device 10) two magnets 2260 and one electromagnet 2265, but it is understood that the magnetic drive 2235 can be formed as having three magnets and two electromagnets as illustrated in Figures 16 to 18, and as having a curved magnet and an electromagnet and / or the like as illustrated in Figures 19 and 20A to 20D.

[0211] As illustrated, the magnetic actuator 2235 can drive one of the four swing arms 2230 suspended from the frame 2220; however, it is understood that two or more of the swing arms 2230 can be attached to the magnetic actuator 2235, and more than one magnetic actuator can be used to drive two or more of the swing arms. For example, the magnetic actuator 2235 can be disposed in each housing 2240.

[0212] Figure 23B illustrates a swing arm 2230 rotatably coupled to a frame 2220 about a pivot shaft 2250 and two bearings (not shown) mounted to a housing 2240. Similar to device 10, electromagnets 2265 are disposed on the pivot P-P', and each of the permanent magnets 2260 is angularly separated from the pivot P-P' by a swing angle α. This rotatable coupling allows the sliding swing arm 2230 to pivot freely and swing from front to back or from back to front in a reciprocating sliding motion relative to the sliding swing frame 2220, as typically indicated by arc GS (see Figure 23A).

[0213] Electromagnets 2265 are mounted to the sliding frame 2220 via housing 2240, and magnets 2260 are mounted on magnet bracket 2245, which is further coupled to the swing arm 2230. Similar to device 10, an encoder strip 2270 with multiple slots is connected to the bracket 2245 or to one of the magnets 2260. An optical sensor 2275 is mounted to the sliding housing 2240 and may generally resemble sensor 45.

[0214] During use, such as when a user initiates operation of the swing mechanism 2200 via a user interface (not shown), the electromagnet 2265 is energized in a wheel-like manner similar to that described for device 10. This causes the swing arm 2230 to rotate over the swing angle α (shown for the rightward direction R in FIG. 23B), and consequently causes the swing mechanism to rock the seat 2210 back and forth along the arc GS, as illustrated in FIG. 23B by the rotation of the swing arm 2230 and its corresponding longitudinal axis G-G' (which passes through the pivot P-P') in the rightward direction R over the swing angle α. Similar to device 10, a controller similar to controller 2102 controls and monitors the operation of the magnetic drive 2235. [Features a removable seat with a swing mechanism]

[0215] Figures 25A to 25D illustrate a swing device 2500 including a removable seat 2518. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the components referenced and listed may be structurally and / or functionally similar to any other device disclosed in this specification (e.g., device 10, etc.).

[0216] The premise is that, although seat 2518 is illustrated in a position that positions the child / user in the seat away from the swing arm assembly 2512 during use, it is understood that the seat may be repositionable, i.e., removable and reinstallable to allow the child / user to face in a different direction. For example, the seat may be positioned as illustrated or sideways, such that the swing arm assembly 2512 faces the child / user's left or right during use. Seat 2518 may also include a bouncer mechanism (e.g., a spring-like mechanism, etc.) that allows the seat to bounce / rebound back and forth until the movement diminishes once an adult / caregiver pulls the seat forward. Seat 2518 may also include an angle-adjustable feature (e.g., between three angle positions).

[0217] Seat 2518 can be mounted to rocker arm 2517 (Figure 25B) or used as a freestanding seat (Figure 25A). Seat 2518 includes a seat mount / connector 2520a, which aligns with rocker mount / connector 2520b for removable attachment of the seat to rocker arm 2517. Although mount 2520b is illustrated as a plug-type connector and mount 2520a as a receptacle-type connector, the reverse is also possible, and any other suitable mating connector design can generally be used. When attached to rocker mount 2520b, seat 2518 can be reverse latched and / or locked in place, and cannot be removed unless the latch / lock is released. Figures 25C and 25D illustrate additional details of the latching mechanism of seat 2518, concealing the software, toy rod, rocker arm, and seat base. The operation of the latching mechanism is explained with reference to Figures 25A to 25D and Figures 26A to 26C, which also illustrate additional details of the mounting parts 2520a and 2520b that allow latching.

[0218] The latch / locking mechanism includes an actuator / switch 2545 (e.g., a depressable button, a lever, a slider, and / or the like) pivotally coupled to the seat ring 2530 and allowing the caregiver / user to actuate a latch / locking element 2555. A cable 2550 is connected at one end to the switch 2545 and wired through a bent tube 2535 to the mounting 2520a, wherein the tube 2535 is bent to accommodate a child during use and also serves to connect the seat ring 2530 to the seat mounting 2520a. It is also understood that although the latching mechanism is illustrated herein as a single mechanism formed on one of the tubes 2535 of the seat 2518, it can also be formed on the opposite tube of the seat (see Figures 25C and 25D).

[0219] The second end of cable 2550 is attached to latch 2555 (illustrated herein as a V-shaped locking element pivoting around its base 2555a), which is rotatably secured to seat mount 2520a, and latch 2555 can rotate back and forth as the caregiver squeezes and releases switch 2545. V-shaped latch 2555 also includes a first arm 2555b and a second arm 2555c. The second end of cable 2550 is attached to hook end 2555d of second arm 2555c. When seat 2518 is mounted on the support of the device (see Figure 26B), and the user does not interact with switch 2545, latch 2555 is held against rocking chair mount 2520b by pressure applied by first arm 2555b (which may be a resilient flexible finger / spring). The second arm 2555c of latch 2555 protrudes into a latch recess 2560 formed on the rocker arm mount 2520b, preventing the rocker arm mount 2520b from separating from and / or pulling away from the seat mount 2520a (Figure 26B). To remove the seat 2518 from the seat mount 2520a, the caregiver can squeeze or interact with switch 2545, thereby pulling cable 2550 and pulling latch arm 2555c out of latch recess 2560. With latch 2555 disengaged in this way, rocker arm mount 2520b and seat mount 2520a can be separated (Figure 26C). [Magnet Design]

[0220] Figures 27A and 27B illustrate how a permanent magnet with a flat surface (such as magnets 52 and 53 illustrated in device 10) may fail to maintain an air gap aligned with an electromagnet. Alternatively, the difference in space between the magnets moving along an arc and the flat surfaces of the opposing electromagnets when they are aligned to different degrees and when they face different points / faces can result in different air gaps between them. As these figures show, this variation in the air / distance gap AG between magnet 2732 and permanent magnet 2741 can vary within a range of + / - 0.025 inches depending on the rotational positioning of magnet 2732 and permanent magnet 2741. The variable air gaps between the permanent magnets and the electromagnets can result in variable magnetic forces that decrease at points and times where the air gap is larger, and vice versa.

[0221] Figure 28 illustrates an exemplary method for eliminating and / or minimizing variations in the air gap AG. In this specification, it is illustrated that any of the magnets 2731 to 2732 can be modified to include a curved surface 2835, resulting in the magnet design 2831 (here). The curvature of the curved surface 2835 is typically concentric with the pivot P-P'. Then, as the magnet 2831 rotates about the pivot, the distance gap AG between the magnet 2831 and the electromagnet 2741 becomes substantially uniform (approximately 0.050 inches). In some cases, the electromagnet 2741 may also have a corresponding curvature concentric with the pivot P-P', which can result in increased uniformity in the magnetic interaction between the magnet 2831 and the electromagnet 2741.

[0222] Figure 29 illustrates various additional designs and design variations for the representative magnet 2731, which helps to maintain a consistent air gap AG. Magnet 2831 includes a curved surface 2835, as shown in Figure 28. Magnet 2841 has a chamfered surface 2845, i.e., a non-smooth and continuous curved surface, the surface of which is composed of multiple planar components abutting at each edge to define a discontinuous curve. In another design, magnet 2851 includes a curved surface and a hole 2855 for mounting magnet 2851 to a frame / support of a magnetic drive element using screws as described in this specification. Figure 29 also illustrates magnets 2831, 2841 and 2861 with a stop structure / rib 2848 on their top surface, none of which protrudes beyond the curved surface of the magnet. Magnet 2861 may be similar to magnet 2831 with curved surface 2835, except that the ribs 2848 on magnet 2861 are formed on different sides relative to magnet 2831. As illustrated for magnet 2831 in Figure 29, stop structure 2848 may engage the enclosure protrusion 2865 of magnetic drive to securely hold magnet 2831 in place during use.

[0223] Figure 30 illustrates (instead of a magnet with a curved surface) that the curved metal housing 3050 can be a housing on the flat surface of a permanent magnet. Thus, an existing flat magnet can be converted into a curved magnet as disclosed in this specification for use in a magnetic actuator, allowing a consistent clearance AG between the magnet and the electromagnets of the magnetic actuator. The size and shape of the metal housing 3050 allow for a stop structure 3048 to be formed on the flat surface of the magnet during assembly, as explained in Figure 29, which helps to lock the magnet to the magnetic actuator. Although a curved magnet similar to magnet 2831 shown in Figure 29 is illustrated here, it is understood that this housing can be designed to mate with magnets 2841, 2851, and / or 2861. [in conclusion]

[0224] Although various innovative embodiments have been described and illustrated in this specification, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of various other components and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the multiple results and / or one or more advantages described in this specification, and each of these variations and / or modifications is considered to be within the scope of the innovative embodiments described in this specification. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described in this specification are intended to be exemplary, and that actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on the one or more specified applications in which the innovative teachings are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to determine that many of the specified innovative embodiments described in this specification are equivalent to those using only conventional experiments. Therefore, it will be understood that the foregoing embodiments are merely illustrative, and that the innovative embodiments may be implemented in ways other than those specifically described and claimed, within the scope of the claims and their equivalents described below. The various innovative embodiments of this invention refer to each individual feature, system, object, material, kit, and / or method described in this specification. Furthermore, if such feature, system, object, material, kit, and / or method does not contradict each other, any combination of two or more such feature, system, object, material, kit, and / or method is included within the innovative scope of this invention.

[0225] Furthermore, various innovative concepts can be embodied in one or more methods that have been provided as examples. The multiple actions performed as part of this method can be ordered in any suitable manner. Therefore, multiple specific embodiments can be constructed that perform the actions in a different order than those illustrated, even though the actions may appear as a sequence in the multiple illustrative embodiments; this could include performing some actions simultaneously.

[0226] All definitions defined and used in this specification should be understood as having the general meaning of dictionary definitions, definitions incorporated in references, and / or multiple defined terms.

[0227] Unless expressly indicated to the contrary, the singular form "a" as used in this specification and various claims shall be understood to mean "at least one".

[0228] As used in this specification and in various claims, the term "and / or" should be understood to mean "any one or both" of the elements thus combined, i.e., elements that exist together in some cases and separately in others. Multiple elements listed using "and / or" should be constructed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements thus combined. In addition to the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, other elements may be present as needed, whether or not related to the specifically identified elements. Thus, by a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with opening language such as "includes," reference to "A and / or B" may refer only to A in one embodiment (including elements other than B as needed); in another embodiment, only to B (including elements other than A as needed); in yet another embodiment, both A and B (including other elements as needed); and so on.

[0229] As used in this specification and in the claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when items are separated in a series, "or" or "and / or" should be interpreted as inclusive, that is, including at least one, but also including more than one of a plurality of or series elements, and additional unlisted items as needed. Only when explicitly referred to otherwise, such as "unique" or "only one," or when used in the claims, "constituting" will mean including only one of a plurality of or series elements. Generally, when exclusive terms such as "any," "one of," "unique of," or "only one of" are used before a series of elements, the term "or" as used in this specification should only be interpreted as indicating an exclusive alternative (i.e., "one or the other but not both"). When used in the claims, "substantially constitutes" should have its general meaning (as used in the field of patent law).

[0230] As used in this specification and its various references, the term "at least one" in reference to one or more element strings shall be deemed to mean any or more of the elements selected from the element strings, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element listed in the element strings, and does not exclude any combination of the elements in the element strings. This definition also allows for elements that may be present as needed, whether related to or unrelated to the elements specifically identified in the element strings referred to by the term "at least one". Therefore, by a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or equivalent to "less than one of A or B"; or equivalent to "at least one of A and / or B") in one embodiment may be considered as at least one, or include more than one A without B (and include elements other than B as needed); in another embodiment, it is called at least one, and may include more than one B as needed without A (and include elements other than A as needed); in yet another embodiment, it is called at least one, and may include more than one A as needed; and at least one, and may include more than one B as needed (and include other elements as needed), etc.

[0231] In the various claims and in this specification above, all transitional terms such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “referring to,” “holding,” “forming,” and the like shall be understood to have no fixed limit, that is, to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional terms “constituting” and “substantially constituting” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional terms, respectively, as set forth in Section 2111.03 of the U.S. Patent Examination Procedure Manual.

[0232] 10: Swinging device; apparatus 12: Swinging frame assembly; Frame assembly 13: Base; Base components 14: Frame arm; supporting component; component; upright frame support; frame support 14a: Rotating component; Part; First swing arm part; Lower part 14b: Location; Second swing arm location 15: Swing arm assembly; Arm assembly 16: Wheel hub 17: Swing arm; Bending swing arm 18: Seat; Seat frame; Swinging seat; Rotatable seat 19: Pivot shaft; shaft 20: Magnetic drive element; drive element device; drive element; magnetic drive element device; device 21, 3521: Shell 22: User interface panel; panel; interface panel 22a, 3522a: Surface 23: Control components 24: Preset application or function selection button / switch; switch; button; button / switch 25: Turntable; Turntable / Knob 26: Visual indicator lights 27: Bearings 28: Opening 29: Circuit Board 30: Swing arm section 31, 32, 33, 52, 53, 1931, 2260: Magnets; permanent magnets 35: Strip; slotted strip; optical encoder strip 36: Slot; Optical through slot 37: Body part; photointerrupter 40: Anthropomorphic testing equipment (ATD); frame arm section; static frame arm section 41, 42, 51, 1941, 2265: Electromagnets 45: Optical sensor; sensor 46, 47: Sensor bracket; bracket 46a: Corresponding sensing beam; sensing beam; beam; sensor beam; light beam; first beam 47a: Corresponding sensing beam; sensing beam; beam; sensor beam; second beam 49: Hollow protective cover; protective cover 50, 1900: Oscillating device; device 51f, 52f: Face 151, 1945: Inductor bracket 152: Permanent magnet bracket 1917, 2517: Swing arm 1919, 2250: Pivot shaft 1931a: North Pole; surface / polar point; pole 1931b: Antarctica; surface / pole; pole 1935: Magnet holder 2100: Controller circuit; circuit 2102: Controller 2104: Power Supply 2106: Power button 2115: Error value 2116: Music Driver 2120: Driver circuit; driving device circuit; circuit 2125: Example Method; Method 2125a: Self-starting sequence / loop; sequence; self-starting sequence 2125b: Self-starting sequence; Oscillating motion control sequence / loop; Motion control sequence 2125c: Swing Angle Control Sequence / Loop 2125cl: Control loop; control sequence 2130a-2130h: Status 2135a: Read out / Read out blocks 2135b, 2135c, 2135d: Read out 2135e, 2135f: Read out blocks 2140: Half-cycle; Observed oscillation or output oscillation amplitude; Oscillation amplitude 2150: Control Sequence / Loop 2155: Required swing angle, set point, or "required" amplitude; set point amplitude 2170: Coefficient 2170a: Integral coefficient 2170b: Scale factor 2170c: Differential coefficient 2175a: Proportional Term 2175b: Integral term 2175c: Differential term 2182: Output voltage and / or input power 2190: Swing amplitude 2200: Sliding swing device; device; swing mechanism 2210: Seat 2220: Frame; Sliding component swing frame; Sliding component frame 2230: Arm; Swing arm; Sliding component swing arm 2235: Magnetic drive component 2240: Housing; sliding component housing 2245: Magnet bracket; bracket 2270: Encoder Strip 2275: Optical Sensor 2500: Swinging device 2512: Swing arm assembly 2518: Removable seat; Seat 2520a: Seat mount / connector; mount; seat mount 2520b: Rocking chair mount / connector; mount; rocking chair mount; swing arm mount 2530: Seat ring 2535: Bending pipe; pipe 2545: Actuator / Switch; Switch 2550: Cable 2555: Latch / locking element; latch; V-latch 2555a, 3113: Base 2555b: First Arm 2555d: Hook tip 2560:Latch pocket 2731: Magnet; Representative magnet 2732, 2841, 2851, 2861: Magnets 2741: Electromagnet; Permanent magnet 2831: Magnet Design; Magnet 2835: Curved surface 2845: Beveled section 2848: Rib; Stop structure 2855: Kong 2865: Containing body protrusion 3048: Stop structure 3050: Bending metal enclosure; metal enclosure 3110: Generalized oscillating device; device 3112: Vertical erection frame component; frame 3115: Swing arm assembly; Swing arm 3120: Driver / Motor; Motor 3222: Fixed part / stator; stator 3224: Drive shaft; shaft 3226: Inductor or electromagnet; electromagnet 3228: Rotating part or rotor 3230: Permanent magnet; magnet 3422: Partial stator; stator 3428: Partial rotor; rotor 3522: User panel; panel 3524: Select button; button 3525: Turntable 3526: Smooth Dial 3530: hole, cavity, or recess; cavity; recess 3535: concave part 3613: Base component 3614: Swinging frame arm; frame arm; swing arm 3616: Power Cable 3618: Outer Cover 3620: Handle 3621a: First Weld 3621b: Second weld 3622: Shank Hole 3623: Concave edge 3624a: First end 3624b: Second end 3626: Convex plate 3628: Lug opening 3630: Handle opening 3632: Bolt assembly 3632a: First bolt; bolt 3632b: Bolt; second bolt 3633: Protrusion 3634: Armhole P--P': Pivot; axis of rotation HR: Horizontal baseline; baseline α1: Angle II': Interface Plane Y(γ): Interface angle PP: Pivot plane; plane L: Left R: Right α: Swing angle ARPM: Arc ARSS: Curvature / Arc Ce--Ce', Cs--Cs': Center-to-center distance; distance S1-S15, S18-26, SS1, SS2: Steps Kp: Pre-determined ratio coefficient Ki: Pre-defined integral coefficient N: Normal axis; axis β: Handle angle FP: Coverage BMD: Base Depth; Depth BMW: Base width; width RA--RA' Rotation axis; shaft CG: Example Center of Gravity DCG-RA: Linear Distance / Offset GS: arc; arc portion G--G': Vertical axis AG: Air / Gap Clearance; Air Gap; Gap Clearance

Claims

1. An apparatus for controlling the operation of a swing device (10), comprising: a controller (2102); an electromagnet (51) of a magnetic drive (20), the electromagnet receiving a control signal from the controller and configured to activate the electromagnet (51) by applying an initiating current having a first polarity, the initiating current being selected to induce movement of at least one part of the swing device (10); and a sensor that sends position data corresponding to a position of at least one part of the swing device to the controller (2102), the controller being configured to determine, based on the position data, whether at least one part of the swing device (10) has moved by at least a predetermined amount, and if, after a first predetermined time period, at least one part of the swing device (10) has not moved by at least the predetermined amount, the controller (2102) being configured to switch the polarity of the initiating current to a second polarity. The controller is configured to, after switching the starting current to the second polarity, determine whether at least the part of the swing device (10) has moved at least the predetermined amount, and if, after a second predetermined period of time, at least the part of the swing device (10) has not moved at least the predetermined amount, then the controller (2102) is configured to switch the polarity of the starting current to the first polarity and repeat the process until it is determined that at least the part of the swing device (10) has moved at least the predetermined amount.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the position data is received from a plurality of optical sensors, the plurality of optical sensors comprising: a first light source for emitting a first light beam propagating along a first optical path; a first detector spaced apart from the first light source and disposed in the first optical path for detecting the first light beam; a second light source for emitting a second light beam along a second optical path substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset by a separation distance relative to the first optical path; a second detector spaced apart from the second light source and disposed in the second optical path for detecting the second light beam; and an optical encoder strip disposed in the first and second optical paths to modulate the detection of the first light beam by the first detector to affect a change in the state of the first detector, and to modulate the detection of the second light beam by the second detector to affect a change in the state of the second detector. The controller is configured to determine whether at least one part of the swing device has moved by at least a predetermined amount by detecting a change in the state of at least one of the first detector and the second detector.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether the part of the swinging device has changed one direction of the swinging motion when it is determined that the swinging device has moved at least the predetermined amount.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to repeat the process until the controller determines that at least the part of the swing device (10) has moved at least the predetermined amount or the direction of the swing motion has changed when it is determined that the part of the swing device (10) has not changed the direction of the swing motion.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to, when it is determined that the oscillating device has moved at least the predetermined amount, increase an oscillation angle measurement associated with the movement of the portion of the oscillating device.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the controller is further configured to switch the polarity of the starting current applied to the electromagnet when it is determined that the part of the oscillating device has changed the direction of the oscillating motion.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the controller is further configured to switch the polarity of the starting current applied to the electromagnet when it is determined that the part of the swinging device has changed the direction of the swinging motion, and to set the starting current to zero when the swinging angle measurement exceeds a predetermined set point.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to, after the starting current is set to zero, determine whether at least the portion of the oscillating device (10) has moved at least the predetermined amount, and if, after the first predetermined period, at least the portion of the oscillating device (10) has not moved at least the predetermined amount, switch the polarity of the starting current from one of the first polarity and the second polarity to the other of the first polarity and the second polarity.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controller is further configured to, after determining that at least the portion of the oscillating device has changed the direction of the oscillating motion and switched one of the current polarities of the initiation current, adjust the initiation current when it is determined that the oscillation angle measurement is less than the predetermined set point.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to calculate an error value based on the swing angle measurement and the predetermined set point, and to calculate one or more of a proportional term, a derivative term or an integral term based on the error value, and to modulate the starting current based on one or more of the proportional term, the derivative term or the integral term, thereby modulating the starting current.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to, after the initiation current is modulated, determine whether at least the portion of the oscillating device (10) has moved at least the predetermined amount, and if, after the first predetermined period, at least the portion of the oscillating device (10) has not moved at least the predetermined amount, switch the polarity of the initiation current from one of the first polarity and the second polarity to the other of the first polarity and the second polarity.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to determine when the portion of the oscillating device changes direction during the oscillating motion, without determining when the portion of the oscillating device is in a balanced position through the oscillating motion.

13. A device for controlling the operation of a swinging mechanism, comprising: Controller; An electromagnet (51) and a plurality of permanent magnets (52, 53) are positioned adjacent to the electromagnet (51) such that upon electrical activation of the electromagnet, a magnetic force is generated between the electromagnet and each of the plurality of permanent magnets, wherein, in a neutral position, the electromagnet is disposed in a pivot plane including a pivot, and at least one of the permanent magnets is disposed outside the pivot plane. The controller includes: the electromagnet is connected to the controller such that the controller can apply an activation current to the electromagnet via a first connection to electrically activate the electromagnet and thereby induce the oscillating motion of the oscillating device without manual intervention by a user of the oscillating device.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein adjacent permanent magnet systems of the plurality of permanent magnets are configured to have relative polarities facing the electromagnet, and wherein the controller is configured to configure the initiation current such that, upon electrical initiation, the electromagnet acquires a predefined polarity on one of the electromagnet faces of the plurality of permanent magnets, and such that attractive and repulsive magnetic forces are simultaneously generated between the electromagnet and the plurality of permanent magnets.

15. An apparatus for controlling the operation of a swing device (10), comprising a controller; a disk (3522) having a surface (3522a) and including a turntable (3525) for specifying the degree of swing motion of at least one part of the swing device during use, for user input, the surface defining an aperture and a recess (3530) within the aperture, wherein the turntable (3525) is disposed in the recess, the controller (2102) being communicatively coupled to the turntable to control the swing motion based on the user input to determine when at least one part of the swing device (10) changes direction during the swing motion without detecting when the part of the swing device (10) is positioned through a gap in the swing motion.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the oscillating device further comprises a plurality of optical sensors, the plurality of optical sensors including a first light source for emitting a first light beam propagating along a first optical path, a first detector spaced apart from the first light source and disposed in the first optical path for detecting the first light beam, a second light source for emitting a second light beam along a second optical path substantially parallel to the first optical path and offset by a separation distance relative to the first optical path, and a second detector spaced apart from the second light source and disposed in the second optical path for detecting the second light beam, the plurality of optical sensors further comprising an optical encoder strip disposed in the first and second optical paths to modulate the detection of the first light beam by the first detector to affect a change in a first state of the first detector, and to modulate the detection of the second light beam by the second detector to affect a change in a second state of the second detector. The controller is configured to distinguish between the first state and the second state, and wherein when the part of the swinging device is moving in a first direction, the first state and the second state transition through a first state sequence; and when the part of the swinging device is moving in a second direction, it transitions through a second state sequence, the second state sequence being the reverse of the first state sequence, and wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the part of the swinging device changes direction during the swinging motion by detecting the transition of the first state and the second state from one of the first state sequence and the second state sequence to the other of the first state sequence and the second state sequence.

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