Asymmetrical Magnetic Field Generation via Segmented Electromagnetic Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional systems for producing asymmetrical magnetic fields struggle to efficiently focus magnetic energy on specific surfaces while minimizing stray fields, limiting their application in induction heating and other magnetic field-based technologies.

Innovation Solution

An electromagnetic array with a substrate defined by regions of conductors arranged in varying configurations to generate magnetic fields of opposite polarities, allowing for selective application of electric current to create strong magnetic fields on one side and weak fields on the other, enabling focused magnetic energy transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional systems are used to produce asymmetrical magnetic fields, then magnetic energy can be transferred to material, but significant stray magnetic fields are produced below or to the sides of the material

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic energy transfer efficiencyVSAvoidstray magnetic fields
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The electromagnetic array is divided into multiple independently controllable regions, each capable of generating magnetic fields with specific polarities. This segmentation allows precise control over magnetic field distribution, concentrating energy where needed while minimizing stray fields in other areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs asymmetrical arrangement of conductors within each region to create non-uniform magnetic field patterns. This asymmetry enables the system to focus magnetic energy on the material surface while reducing stray fields below and to the sides of the material, directly addressing the technical contradiction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Productivity

If conventional electromagnetic arrays are used, then heating can be applied, but the system lacks flexibility for non-uniform surfaces and complex geometries

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheating efficiencyVSAvoidapplicability to non-uniform surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically controls the polarity and intensity of magnetic fields in each region through independent conductor control. This dynamic capability allows the electromagnetic array to adapt to various surface geometries and heating requirements, maintaining high efficiency across different application scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the electromagnetic array can be configured with different conductor arrangements and polarities tailored to specific local heating needs. This local customization enables effective heating of non-uniform surfaces and complex geometries while maintaining overall system productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If regions are independently controlled, then selective heating is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselective heating capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the array into independent regions with dedicated conductor groups, the system enables selective heating of specific areas. While this increases control capability, the segmented architecture also allows modular implementation that can manage complexity through standardized regional units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution allows for efficient induction heating on non-uniform surfaces and complex geometries, reducing manufacturing complexity and enabling modular, flexible applications with reduced electromagnetic interference.

Implementation Method 1

each conductor of the plurality of conductors generates a magnetic field in a polarity that is other than a polarity of a corresponding magnetic field of at least one adjacent conductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

induction heating using asymmetrical magnetic fields

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentUS10932331B2Methods and apparatus to provide asymmetrical magnetic fields, and induction heating using asymmetrical magnetic fields
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC
  • US10932331B2 patent drawing
  • US10932331B2 patent drawing
  • US10932331B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electromagnetic array includes a substrate defined by a plurality of regions. Each region includes a plurality of conductors arranged in a varying configuration such that, upon application of an electric current, each conductor of the plurality of conductors generates a magnetic field in a polarity that is other than a polarity of a corresponding magnetic field of at least one adjacent conductor. Each region includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface having a strong magnetic field relative to a weak magnetic field associated with the second surface in response to the electric current. A first region is adjacent to another region, and configured such that a polarity of the strong magnetic field associated with the first region is in a polarity other than a polarity of the strong magnetic field associated with the at least one other region.