Electromagnetic Swing Control With Attractive and Repulsive Drive
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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 with an electromagnet and a magnetic component to efficiently drive the swing seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If only repulsive magnetic forces are used in the magnetic drive system, then the system is simpler to implement, but the control over swing dynamics is limited and power efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the magnetic drive system adjustable and controllable. The system transitions from a static repulsive-only configuration to a dynamic system that can selectively generate both attractive and repulsive forces. This is achieved through controllable magnetic components (electromagnets or solenoids) that can change their magnetic field characteristics in real-time, allowing optimization of swing dynamics at different positions in the swing arc.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the magnetic force characteristics (attractive vs. repulsive) based on the swing seat's position. The control system adjusts magnetic parameters dynamically - switching between attraction and repulsion modes, and adjusting force magnitudes - to maintain optimal swing dynamics throughout the motion cycle, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplicity and controllability.
2Speed
If significant gaps exist between magnetic drive components, then the swing seat can move through a larger arc, but the magnetic force decreases and power efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using oscillating magnetic forces that synchronize with the swing motion. The magnetic drive system generates periodic attractive and repulsive forces at specific intervals corresponding to the swing's position in its arc. This timing-based approach allows the system to maintain energy efficiency by applying forces only when needed, while still achieving large swing arcs through cumulative periodic impulses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by applying magnetic forces in advance of the swing seat's natural motion. The control system anticipates the swing's position and applies attractive or repulsive forces before the seat reaches certain points in its arc, thereby maintaining momentum and reducing energy loss without requiring the magnetic components to be in constant close proximity.
3Productivity
If repulsive magnetic forces are used to drive the swing seat, then the magnetic drive system can be implemented, but the system is only effective when the swing seat is moving away from the magnetic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the magnetic force direction from purely repulsive to a combination of attractive and repulsive forces. Instead of only pushing the swing seat away (repulsion), the system can also pull the seat toward the magnetic components (attraction). This inverted approach allows the magnetic drive to be effective during both the outward and return phases of the swing motion, doubling the operational effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by ensuring that magnetic forces are applied continuously throughout the entire swing cycle. By switching between attractive and repulsive modes based on position, the system maintains continuous driving effectiveness rather than having dead zones where no force is applied. This ensures the swing receives useful magnetic action during both the outward swing and the return motion.
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 electromagnet configured to repel a single permanent magnet connected to a swing seat, thereby driving the seat along its arcuate path
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic drive system that includes an electromagnet operatively connected to the swing seat and configured to generate both attractive and repulsive magnetic forces with another magnetic component
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.