Flexible Electric Actuator for Deformable Linear Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional linear induction motors are rigid and inflexible, making them unsuitable for applications requiring dynamic movement.
Innovation Solution
A flexible electric actuator system comprising a stator and slider with flexible substrates and coils, where the slider is fitted within the stator's through-hole, allowing axial sliding and deformation without impacting functionality, utilizing Lorentz forces generated by magnetic and electromagnetic interactions for actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional linear induction motors are used, then electromagnetic actuation is achieved, but the structure becomes rigid and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible substrates to both the stator and rotor components. The stator includes a flexible substrate with coils formed thereon, and the rotor includes a flexible substrate with magnets attached. This allows the entire actuator assembly to be bent, twisted, or deformed without compromising the electromagnetic functionality, directly resolving the contradiction between achieving electromagnetic actuation and maintaining structural flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the actuator structure dynamically adaptable by using flexible materials that allow the stator and rotor to change shape during operation. The flexible substrates enable the actuator to adapt to different configurations and positions while maintaining its electromagnetic actuation capability, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic flexible one
2Extent of automation
If brushless design is used, then electromagnetic control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex brushless commutation system from the actuator design. By using a brushed design with direct electrical contact between the slider and stator coils, the invention removes the need for complex electronic controllers, Hall sensors, and sophisticated commutation algorithms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining effective electromagnetic control
Solution Approach 2:
The brushed design allows the actuator to self-regulate its electromagnetic control through direct mechanical contact. The sliding contact between the slider and stator automatically establishes the necessary electrical connections for coil energization without requiring external electronic control systems, making the device simpler and more self-sufficient
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 dynamic movement and actuation in applications like robotic arms and prosthetics, reducing complexity and cost compared to conventional brushless designs by using a brushed design with mechanically controlled electromagnetic fields.
Implementation Method 1
When current is provided to the stator, the electromagnetic fields of the coils repel and attract the rotor's magnets to extend and retract the rotor accordingly
Implementation Method 2
The resulting Lorentz forces, which are perpendicular relative to both the tangential electromagnetic and radial magnetic fields, axially apply force to the stator and the slider relative to one another
Implementation Method 3
The stator and the slider are both flexible. In other words, the stator and the slider can be deformed, for example, they may be bent, twisted, extended, and/or compressed under a given load
Data Source
AI summary
Implemented is an electric actuator that includes a tubular stator and a slider. The tubular stator comprises a flexible stator support member and at least one electrical coil, forming a flexible outer tube. The slider is fitted within a tubular stator. The stator and the slider can axially slide relative to one another. The slider includes a flexible slider support member and at least one magnet, which together form a flexible inner tube. The electric actuator also includes an input power wire and an output power wire that are disposed within the slider. The stator and the slider are both deformable and may axially move relative to another while deformed due to at least one Lorentz force generated within the electric actuator.