Eddy Current Braking Arms for Progressive Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical braking systems on zip-line and coaster rides lack progressive speed control, fail to accommodate riders of varying sizes, and cannot be effectively stopped at any point along the track, posing safety concerns due to limited control over speed and potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of eddy current-based braking systems using movable arms or arm assemblies with magnets that interact with non-ferrous conductive materials, generating a braking force through centrifugal or inertial motion, allowing for progressive braking and control of the trolley's speed and position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional mechanical braking systems are used on trolleys, then braking force is provided, but progressive speed control and ability to stop at any point along the track is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The braking arm is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position relative to the conductive plate. The arm can be positioned closer to or farther from the plate to modulate the braking force, enabling progressive speed control and the ability to stop at any point along the track rather than relying on fixed mechanical contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of magnetic field strength by adjusting the distance between the magnet on the braking arm and the conductive plate. By varying this distance, the eddy current generation and resulting braking force can be precisely controlled, providing continuous speed regulation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed mechanical braking systems are used, then braking is provided, but accommodation of riders of varying sizes and weights is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system automatically adapts to different riders and weights through the movable arm design. As the trolley moves along the track, the braking arm naturally positions itself at optimal distances from the conductive plate based on the trolley's speed and load, eliminating the need for manual adjustments or different braking configurations for different rider sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The single movable braking arm system with magnetic field interaction serves all riders regardless of size or weight. The same braking mechanism universally accommodates different trolley loads by dynamically adjusting the magnetic coupling strength, replacing the need for multiple fixed braking systems or complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Speed
If grade-based braking is used on zip-line tracks, then speed control is attempted, but control over trolley speed is insufficient due to variation with rider weight and slope
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical grade-based braking system (which relies on track slope and friction) with an electromagnetic braking system using eddy currents. This substitution provides more reliable and predictable speed control because the magnetic braking force can be precisely regulated by adjusting the arm position, independent of rider weight variations and track slope 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
This solution provides progressive braking, effective speed control for riders of different sizes, and the ability to stop the trolley at any point, enhancing safety by reducing collisions and accommodating varying rider weights and sizes without modifying the system.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnets that move relative to one or more non-ferrous conductive materials so as to generate eddy currents and provide braking force
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the one or more magnets may be imparted by centrifugal or inertial forces
Data Source
AI summary
The current subject matter describes a device and system including one or more movable arms containing one or more magnets that are caused to move relative to a non-ferrous material by motion of the device to generate eddy currents that cause a braking of the device. Devices of this disclosure may include a wheel with arms having magnets and that move from centrifugal force caused by rotation of the arms within a wheel. The applied braking force is controlled due, in part, to the configuration of the non-ferrous material in which eddy currents are generated. Devices may additionally or alternately include arms with magnets that move relative to a non-ferrous rail when the device moves to generate eddy currents that cause additional braking of the device.