Floating Coil Compressor with Concentric Springs for Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coil configurations for closed cycle cryogenic coolers require complex assembly and additional components to maintain force balance and prevent electrical disconnection during rotation, while also limiting the ability of coils to float and self-align within the compressor.
Innovation Solution
A radially symmetric floating coil configuration with concentric springs and electrical conduits that allow axial movement and rotation, eliminating the need for a clocking guide and enabling self-alignment without compromising functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a prior art floating coil configuration with compression springs is used, then the coil can float and reduce side loading impacts, but additional springs are required on the opposite axial side to restore force balance, increasing component count
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using an asymmetric spring arrangement where compression springs are placed only on one axial side of the coil assembly. The coil is positioned asymmetrically within the compressor housing, with the magnetic assembly and piston rod arrangement compensating for the unilateral spring placement. This asymmetric design eliminates the need for symmetric spring pairs while maintaining force balance through the magnetic and mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the magnetic field necessary for coil operation, acts as a mechanical support structure, and contributes to force balance by counteracting the unilateral spring forces. The piston rod and compressor housing also participate in force distribution, allowing the spring system to achieve force balance without requiring springs on both axial sides.
2Reliability
If a guide pin and clocking guide are added to prevent rotation and electrical disconnection, then electrical connectivity is maintained, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves equipotentiality by ensuring that the electrical contacts maintain constant electrical potential relationships during coil movement. The electrical connection system is designed so that relative movements between the coil, magnetic assembly, and housing do not create potential differences that would cause disconnection. This allows the coil to rotate and move freely without requiring guide pins or clocking guides to maintain electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil assembly is designed to self-maintain electrical connectivity through its own structural features. The electrical contacts are integrated into the magnetic assembly and housing in such a way that the coil's natural movement and positioning mechanisms ensure continuous contact. The system uses its operational movements to maintain rather than disrupt electrical connections, eliminating the need for separate guidance components.
3Device complexity
If coils are mounted in a fixed position to prevent rotation, then assembly is simplified, but the coils are unable to float and self-align within the compressor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the coil assembly to transition from a static mounted position to a dynamic floating position. The coil is mounted on the magnetic assembly in a way that permits rotation and axial movement while maintaining electrical connectivity. The spring-loaded design provides dynamic force balance that allows the coil to float and self-align during operation, combining assembly simplicity with operational adaptability.
4Device complexity
If a symmetric pair of flexure springs is used to position coils concentrically, then part count is reduced, but the springs have significant radial stiffness that hinders coil functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using compression springs with specific local properties optimized for axial force application rather than radial positioning. The springs are placed in locations where they provide axial support while the magnetic assembly and housing provide the concentric positioning function. This separation of functions allows the use of simpler compression springs without radial stiffness constraints while maintaining coil concentricity through the magnetic and mechanical structure.
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 simplifies assembly, reduces component count, and ensures continuous electrical connectivity and free rotation of coils, preventing electrical disconnection and enhancing the operational reliability of the compressor.
Implementation Method 1
an example of the prior art coil system 8 of the compressor of the '994 patent incorporates a number of compression springs 10 to position motor coils 12 in a floating configuration
Implementation Method 2
a compressor section incorporating reciprocating pistons which are mechanically/pneumatically driven by a prior art coil system
Data Source
AI summary
A floating coil configuration for a compressor of a closed cycle cryogenic cooler, the coil configuration comprises a coil having a positive end and a negative end and first and second springs concentrically located within the coil, each spring having a first end and a second end. The positive end of the coil is coupled to the first end of the first spring and the negative end of the coil is coupled to the second end of the second spring. The second end of the first spring is electrically coupled to the first end of the second spring such that the first and second springs define an electrical path across the coil.