Electromagnet Assembly Support Pins for Transport Shock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Superconducting magnet structures face damage from shock and vibration during transport due to structural restraints that induce stresses and distortion, and the differing thermal contraction rates between the magnet coils and their housing lead to complex and over-engineered solutions that hinder performance.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnet assembly with support pins that couple the outer shield coil assembly to the housing, allowing relative axial movement while preventing radial and rotational movement, thereby minimizing the effects of transport loads and maintaining coil positions during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If structural restraints are reinforced to protect against transport shock and vibration loads, then the reliability of the magnet assembly during transport is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase, and performance during operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into discrete support pins distributed at multiple locations around the circumference of the outer shield coil assembly, rather than using a continuous complex framework. Each pin independently provides support, allowing the system to achieve reliability through distributed simple elements rather than a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support pins are designed with specific geometric parameters (diameter, length, distribution pattern) that optimize their load-bearing capacity for transport conditions while minimizing their interference with magnetic field generation during operation. The pins are positioned and dimensioned to provide necessary mechanical support without creating harmful electromagnetic effects.
2Manufacturing precision
If structural restraints are reinforced to prevent distortion from transport loads, then the manufacturing precision is maintained, but the weight of the structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement structure is divided into multiple discrete support pins rather than a single heavy framework. This segmentation allows precision to be achieved through the collective action of many lightweight elements, distributing the support function across the circumference of the coil assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The support pins are simple, minimalistic elements designed to fulfill their support function without excessive mass. They are optimized to provide just enough structural reinforcement during transport and operation, avoiding the weight penalty of over-engineered permanent structures.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the magnet coil assemblies are mounted at multiple locations to the housing, then the stability during operation is improved, but thermal stresses are induced due to differential thermal contraction and expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The support pins are strategically positioned at specific locations around the circumference of the outer shield coil assembly where they provide maximum stability benefit. The local support characteristics are optimized for each position, allowing the system to achieve overall stability while accommodating differential thermal movement through selective positioning rather than uniform rigid constraints.
4Weight of moving object
If minimalist structural design is used to reduce weight, then the weight of the structure is reduced, but the ability to resist transport loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The minimalist support structure is segmented into multiple discrete pins distributed around the coil assembly circumference. This segmentation allows the lightweight pins to collectively resist transport loads through distributed support, achieving load resistance that would be impossible with a single lightweight element.
Solution Approach 2:
The support pins are positioned and configured to counteract the directional nature of transport shock and vibration loads. By distributing pins around the circumference, the structure creates counterbalancing support points that resist loads from various directions, compensating for the minimal mass of individual pins.
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 minimizes the impact of transport loads on the magnet assembly, reduces the need for excessive structural reinforcement, and maintains the performance of the superconducting magnet by allowing for differential thermal expansion while supporting the coils effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The material properties of the magnet structure and the cryogen vessel may be significantly different, leading to significantly different rates and extent of thermal contraction and expansion between the coil assemblies and the surrounding housing
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnet assembly has an outer shield coil assembly having a first end and a second end, and further has a housing having a first end wall and a second end wall spaced apart from one another by a side wall. The outer shield coil assembly and housing are centered on a common assembly axis. A first support pin extends between and couples the first end wall of the housing and the first end of the outer shield coil assembly. A second support pin extends between and couples the second end wall of the housing and the second end of the outer shield coil assembly. Hence the outer shield coil assembly is carried by the housing by the pins. The coupling of the end walls of the housing and ends of the outer shield coil assembly is configured to prevent relative radial and rotational movement between the outer shield coil assembly and the housing.