Eddy Current Generator Segmentation for Low-Speed Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Non-contact eddy current generators face challenges in achieving adequate power generation due to insufficient magnetic field range and high initial speed requirements, especially when integrated into brake shoes, leading to potential damage from rim contact and reduced system performance.

Innovation Solution

Combining dipole and multipole wheels, using shifting mechanisms, and optimizing magnetic field strengths and coil windings to enhance power generation at lower speeds, along with incorporating phosphorescent materials for lighting and radio communication for speed and cadence sensing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If dipole magnetic wheels are mounted on both sides of the rim, then the magnetic field range is increased, but the holding force increases requiring higher minimum speed for rotation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemagnetic field rangeVSAvoidminimum speed for rotation

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic wheel is divided into multiple segments (dipole segments or six-pole segments) arranged in alternating pole sequence around the circumference. This segmentation allows the magnetic field to be distributed in a way that extends range while managing holding forces through proper pole arrangement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the magnetic wheel have different pole configurations (alternating N-S poles). This local variation in magnetic polarity creates zones of alternating attraction and repulsion that extend the effective magnetic field range while allowing rotation at lower speeds by reducing peak holding forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Force

If the distance between two magnetic wheels mounted on opposite sides is increased, then the holding force decreases, but the eddy current gearing and system performance decrease

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveholding forceVSAvoidsystem performance

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system optimizes parameters including magnetic field strength, coil winding configuration, and the distance between magnetic wheels to achieve adequate power generation at lower speeds. By adjusting these parameters, the system maintains effective eddy current gearing while managing holding forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Speed

If 6-pole or multi-pole magnetic wheels are used instead of dipole wheels, then the holding force is reduced allowing rotation at lower speeds, but the magnetic field range is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverotation speedVSAvoidmagnetic field range

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic wheel is segmented into multiple poles (6-pole or multi-pole configurations) with alternating polarity. This segmentation reduces the angle between alternating poles (60 degrees for six-pole vs. 180 degrees for dipole), which reduces peak holding forces and enables rotation at lower speeds while maintaining adequate magnetic field range through proper segment arrangement.

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

Enables efficient power generation at lower speeds, reduces risk of damage from rim contact, and provides effective lighting and data communication for improved safety and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

at least one movably mounted rotor element (1) comprising at least one magnet, which rotates by eddy current interaction with the counter element and induces a current into at least one coil (4) during rotation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEddy current interaction: Eddy Currents

Implementation Method 2

induces a current into at least one coil (4) during rotation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11716007B2System of one or multiple contactless eddy current generators on conductive counter elements in a performance-optimised arrangement relative to one another, and uses thereof in

Publication Date: 2023.08.01 STROTHMANN DIRK

AI summary

By means of the system described, the use of eddy current generators on vehicles, especially bicycles, can be simplified by easier integration into standardized components such as brake pads, making them more suitable for everyday use. The problem of overcoming the magnetic holding forces at low speeds is essential for cyclists, as these would otherwise rule out the use of such systems in everyday traffic due to the lack of power generation when starting off at low speed. The integration into brake pads provides a significant advantage, as a new functionality is achieved without the need for additional components. The claimed additional functions for signalling contribute to increased traffic safety, especially for two-wheel traffic.