Dual-Mass Vibratory Linear Actuator With Superimposed Waveforms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibratory linear actuators lack the capability for the first and second movable bodies to reciprocate with more complex and varied movements, limiting the functionality and effectiveness of devices using such actuators.

Innovation Solution

A vibratory linear actuator design where the first and second movable bodies are configured to reciprocate at different frequencies and phases by applying a voltage with superimposed waveforms, utilizing springs and springs with different spring constants to create varying amplitudes and phases of movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a simple reciprocating motion is used in the vibratory linear actuator, then the device complexity is reduced, but the cleaning effectiveness and functionality are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning effectivenessVSAvoidmovement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the movement pattern adjustable and variable. The control unit dynamically changes the reciprocating motion parameters (frequency, amplitude, phase) between the first and second movable bodies based on different cleaning modes and conditions, transforming a static simple motion into a dynamic adaptable motion system that enhances cleaning effectiveness without requiring permanently complex mechanical structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes periodic action by implementing different reciprocating frequency patterns between the first and second movable bodies. The control unit can set the reciprocating frequencies to be the same or different, and adjust the phase relationships (same phase or opposite phase), creating varied periodic motion patterns that improve cleaning performance while maintaining the fundamental simplicity of the reciprocating mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the first and second movable bodies reciprocate at the same frequency and phase, then the device operation is simplified, but the cleaning performance is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning performanceVSAvoidoperation control
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit dynamically adjusts the reciprocating motion parameters of the first and second movable bodies. It can switch between different operational states: same frequency with same phase, same frequency with opposite phase, or different frequencies, allowing the system to adapt to different cleaning requirements while maintaining relatively simple operational control through automated control logic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes key motion parameters (frequency and phase) of the movable bodies to optimize cleaning performance. The control unit can vary the reciprocating frequency of each movable body independently and adjust their phase relationship, transforming a single-mode operation into a multi-parameter controllable system that enhances cleaning effectiveness without significantly complicating the operational control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If a voltage waveform with two superimposed waveforms is applied to the electromagnet, then the movable bodies achieve more complicated movement, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement complexityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit applies periodic voltage waveforms with specific frequencies to the electromagnet, corresponding to the desired reciprocating motion frequencies of the movable bodies. By using periodic action with adjustable frequency ratios and phase relationships, the system achieves complicated movement patterns while maintaining energy efficiency through resonant frequencies and optimized pulse patterns rather than continuous high-power consumption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit changes the voltage waveform parameters (frequency, amplitude, duty cycle) applied to the electromagnet to achieve different movement complexities. It can switch between simple single-frequency waveforms and complex superimposed waveforms based on cleaning requirements, optimizing energy consumption by using simpler waveforms when complex movement is not needed and only employing complex waveforms when enhanced cleaning performance is required

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design allows for more complex and efficient movement of the movable bodies, enhancing the performance of devices like electric toothbrushes by providing varied and effective cleaning actions.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic force acts between the electromagnetic block and the magnetic block to reciprocate the magnetic block relatively with respect to the electromagnetic block

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a first movable body coupled to the electromagnetic block with a first spring, and a second movable body coupled to the first movable body with a second spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4637006A1Vibratory linear actuator and electric toothbrush
Publication Date: 2025.10.22 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • EP4637006A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4637006A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4637006A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a vibratory linear actuator and an electric toothbrush in which a first movable body and a second movable body can reciprocate with more complicated movement. A vibratory linear actuator (40) according to the present disclosure include an electromagnetic block (50) including an electromagnet (52) and a magnetic block (60) including a permanent magnet (63). The magnetic block (60) includes a first movable body (61) and a second movable body (62), and a thrust acting on the first movable (60) body is different from a thrust acting on the second movable body (62). The vibratory linear actuator (40) is configured such that when a voltage having a waveform in which two different waveforms have been superimposed is applied to the electromagnet (52), while the first movable body (61) and the second movable body (62) reciprocate at a frequency at which an amplitude increases in an opposite phases, the first movable body (61) and the second movable body (62) reciprocate at a frequency at which the amplitude increases in the same phase.