Electromagnetic swing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetically driven children's swings are limited by their ability to generate only repulsive magnetic forces, which restricts control over swing dynamics and results in reduced power efficiency due to decreased magnetic force with distance.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic drive system that includes at least two magnetic components capable of generating both attractive and repulsive forces, controlled by a swing control circuit to maintain a user-defined amplitude, utilizing an electromagnetic or solenoid drive system to efficiently propel the swing seat along an arcuate path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If only repulsive magnetic forces are used to drive the swing seat, then the magnetic drive system is simple to implement, but the control over swing dynamics is limited and power efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic drive system dynamically switches between repulsive and attractive magnetic forces based on the swing seat's position and motion state. The controller adjusts the polarity of the electromagnet in real-time, enabling dynamic control over swing dynamics while maintaining system simplicity through automated polarity reversal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the magnetic force parameter from purely repulsive to alternating between repulsive and attractive forces. By varying the magnetic force direction and magnitude based on swing position, the system achieves improved control over swing dynamics without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
2Productivity
If significant gaps are maintained between magnetic drive components, then the swing seat can move freely along its arcuate path, but the magnetic force decreases and power efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic drive system employs periodic action by alternately applying repulsive and attractive forces at specific intervals during the swing seat's motion cycle. This periodic magnetic force application maintains effectiveness over distance by timing the force pulses to coincide with the swing seat's position, improving power efficiency without requiring constant close proximity between magnetic components.
3Ease of operation
If the magnetic drive system operates only when the swing seat is moving away from magnetic components, then the system is simple to operate, but continuous and smooth driving force cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic drive system achieves continuous useful action by maintaining active magnetic force application throughout the entire swing cycle. The controller continuously monitors swing position and adjusts magnetic force polarity and magnitude accordingly, ensuring smooth and continuous driving force is provided during both the outward and return swings, eliminating idle periods.
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 system provides improved swing dynamics and increased power efficiency by generating continuous and controlled magnetic forces, allowing for smoother and more efficient operation of the swing.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic coil and a magnetic component configured to fit within the coil and generate a magnetic force that drives the swing seat
Implementation Method 2
at least two magnetic components configured to selectively generate a magnetic force which drives the swing seat
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a powered children's swing. In various embodiments, the swing includes a seat, swing frame, one or more swing arms, a first magnetic component, second magnetic component, swing motion sensor, and swing control circuit. The magnetic components are configured to generate a magnetic force that drives the seat along a swing path. The swing control circuit is configured to control the magnetic components based at least on input from the swing motion sensor and generate control signals causing the seat to swing with substantially constant amplitude as specified by a user.