Electromechanical Lock With Side-by-Side Magnets for Stronger Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromechanical locks face challenges in generating sufficient magnetic field forces due to axial placement of magnets, complicating design and implementation.
Innovation Solution
The use of a movable permanent magnet and a stationary semi-hard magnet, combined with an electrically powered magnetization coil, allows for switching the polarity of the semi-hard magnet between configurations to generate stronger magnetic fields, enabling efficient movement of the movable magnet between positions for locking and unlocking states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnets are placed axially against each other, then the lock structure is compact, but the generated magnetic field forces are relatively small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from axial magnet placement (one-dimensional arrangement) to radial magnet placement (two-dimensional arrangement). The movable magnet and stationary magnet are positioned with their magnetic axes parallel and adjacent to each other, creating a radial magnetic field configuration that generates stronger magnetic forces while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric arrangement parameter of the magnets from axial to radial placement. This parameter change fundamentally alters the magnetic field distribution and force generation characteristics, enabling stronger magnetic forces without increasing device complexity.
2Force
If magnets are placed axially against each other, then the alignment is simple, but the magnetic forces generated are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts radial magnet placement where the magnetic axes of the movable and stationary magnets are parallel and adjacent, rather than axial placement. This dimensional change creates stronger magnetic forces while the magnets remain surrounded by magnetization coils for straightforward manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetization coils as intermediaries that surround both the movable and stationary magnets. These coils facilitate the magnetization process and enable polarity switching, simplifying the manufacturing of strongly magnetized components without requiring complex direct magnet-to-magnet alignment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetization coil surrounds the stationary magnet, then the polarity can be switched electrically, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetization coil serves multiple functions: it magnetizes the stationary magnet during assembly, enables polarity switching during operation, and can be used for demagnetization if needed. This multi-functionality justifies the added component while providing versatile control over the magnetic field.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the magnetic configuration dynamic by using an electrically powered magnetization coil that can switch the polarity of the stationary magnet. This dynamic capability allows the lock to transition between locked and unlocked states through electrical control, enhancing adaptability.
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 configuration enhances the magnetic forces, simplifying the design and implementation of electromechanical locks by providing greater security, reduced size, and improved electrical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically powered magnetization coil (104) positioned adjacent to the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) and configured to switch a polarity of the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) between a first magnetization configuration and a second magnetization configuration
Implementation Method 2
In the first magnetization configuration, the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) attracts the movable permanent magnet (100) to a first position. In the second magnetization configuration, the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) repels the movable permanent magnet (100) to a second position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1F
Figure 2A~2E
Figure 3A~3E
AI summary
Electromechanical lock and method are disclosed. The lock includes: a movable permanent magnet (100) to move between a first position (120) and a second position (140); a stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102); and an electrically powered magnetization coil (104) positioned adjacent to the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) to switch a polarity of the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) between a first magnetization configuration (S-N) and a second magnetization configuration (N-S). The first magnetization configuration (S-N) of the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) attracts (122) the movable permanent magnet (100) to the first position (120). The second magnetization configuration (N-S) of the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102) repels (142) the movable permanent magnet to the second position (140). A magnetic axis (108) of the movable permanent magnet (100) is side by side with a magnetic axis (110) of the stationary permanent semi-hard magnet (102).