Degaussing Coils With AC Decay and DC Offset Field Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetized structures pose interference issues due to remanent magnetic fields, which existing degaussing methods fail to efficiently and inexpensively mitigate, particularly in sensitive environments like superconducting circuits.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an AC waveform generator producing a decaying differential signal and a DC signal generator, applied through electrical coils within a shielded gauss chamber, effectively induces a decaying magnetic field to neutralize remanent magnetization, followed by a static offset field to counteract Earth's magnetic field, thereby degaussing the structure without heat application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If existing degaussing methods are used, then remanent magnetic fields can be reduced, but the process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the degaussing process into two distinct stages: first applying an AC magnetic field to randomize magnetic domains and eliminate remanent magnetization, then applying a DC offset field to establish a controlled residual field that counteracts Earth's magnetic field. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized independently, simplifying the overall system design while achieving complete degaussing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the AC degaussing field before applying the DC offset field. By first randomizing the magnetic domains through AC excitation, the material is prepared in a state where subsequent DC field application can precisely control the residual magnetization. This preliminary action ensures that the DC field only needs to establish the offset without fighting against existing remanent magnetization, reducing the required field strength and simplifying the control system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing degaussing methods are used, then remanent magnetic fields can be reduced, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electrical coil system to perform multiple functions: the same coil structure can generate both AC degaussing fields and DC offset fields by simply changing the electrical input waveform. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate coil assemblies for different degaussing stages, reducing material costs, assembly complexity, and maintenance requirements while achieving complete magnetic field control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the magnetic field characteristics by changing electrical parameters (AC frequency, amplitude, and DC offset level) rather than changing physical hardware. This allows flexible adjustment of degaussing effectiveness for different material types and geometries without requiring multiple specialized coil designs, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining high performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple degaussing methods are used, then cost is reduced, but interference with sensitive circuits remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful Earth's magnetic field into a beneficial reference by applying a DC offset field that specifically counteracts it. The residual remanent magnetization, which could be considered harmful interference, is actually utilized to create the offset field that cancels Earth's field, thereby protecting sensitive superconducting circuits from interference while using a simple and inexpensive degaussing system.
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
This method allows for a simple, cost-effective degaussing process that reduces remanent magnetic fields to negligible levels, preventing interference with other circuits and maintaining the integrity of sensitive components like superconducting circuits.
Implementation Method 1
The given electrical coil can induce a decaying magnetic field on the magnetized structure in response to the amplified differential AC signal
Implementation Method 2
The other electrical coil can induce a nearly constant magnetic field on the magnetized structure to convert the magnetized structure into a degaussed structure with a DC offset magnetic field
Implementation Method 3
a shielded gauss chamber that encapsulates the given electrical coil, the other electrical coil and magnetized structure, wherein the shielded gauss chamber prevents magnetic fields from penetrating the magnetized structure
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for degaussing a magnetized structure can include a given circuit that provides a differential alternating current (AC) signal that decays from an upper level to a lower level over a predetermined amount of time. The system also includes a given electrical coil coupled to the given circuit. The electrical coil circumscribes the magnetized structure. The electrical coil induces a decaying magnetic field on the magnetized structure in response to the differential AC signal to convert the magnetized structure into a degaussed structure.