Magnetic Actuator Halbach Configuration Slide-In Frame Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic actuators face challenges in assembly due to magnetic forces, requiring sequential gluing and limited force generation, typically capping at 70 N, necessitating parallel operation for higher forces.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic actuator with permanent magnets arranged in a Halbach configuration within a slide-in frame, allowing for sequential and precise alignment using clamping means, enhancing force generation by optimizing magnetic flux and reducing assembly complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If permanent magnets are glued to a mounting plate, then the magnets can be fixed in position, but the positioning is difficult due to magnetic forces after the first magnet has been glued in, requiring sequential gluing and waiting for glue to harden

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by providing a template with pre-defined positioning elements (pockets, recesses, or protrusions) that guide the magnets into their correct positions before assembly. This allows multiple magnets to be positioned simultaneously without sequential gluing and waiting, as the template pre-establishes the spatial relationships and prevents magnetic interference during positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The template acts as an intermediary between the magnets and the mounting plate. It mediates the positioning process by providing a structured interface with positioning elements that guide magnet placement, eliminating the need for direct manual positioning against magnetic forces and enabling parallel assembly of multiple magnets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Force

If magnets are arranged in a conventional configuration, then the structure is simple, but the magnetic flux is not optimized, limiting force generation to a maximum of 70 N

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce generationVSAvoidmagnet arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by arranging magnets in a Halbach configuration where each magnet has a specific local orientation optimized for flux direction. This creates a non-uniform but optimized magnetic field distribution with intensified flux on one side and reduced flux on the other, maximizing the force output without requiring additional magnets or complex mechanical structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the magnetic orientation parameters of individual magnets according to the Halbach configuration. By systematically varying the magnetization direction of each magnet (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135° orientations), the overall magnetic flux is optimized to generate forces exceeding 100 N, transforming the magnetic field parameters to achieve superior performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Force

If a thick frame is used to hold magnets, then the magnets are securely held, but the frame adds rigidity that interferes with the magnetic field and reduces force generation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce generationVSAvoidmagnet positioning stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a thin-walled frame structure that provides sufficient mechanical support for magnet positioning while minimizing interference with the magnetic field. The thin walls allow magnetic flux to pass through with minimal distortion, maintaining force generation efficiency while still securing the magnets in their optimized Halbach configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is segmented into thin sections with strategic reinforcement only where mechanically necessary for magnet support. This segmentation allows the frame to provide stability for magnet positioning while minimizing the overall material presence that would interfere with magnetic flux, particularly in the regions critical for force generation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Facilitates easier assembly and increased force generation, enabling the creation of magnetic actuators capable of producing forces exceeding 100 N with improved alignment and reduced rigidity from the frame.

Implementation Method 1

the permanent magnets are arranged in a Halbach configuration. The permanent magnets are arranged with each rotating magnetic orientation to each other. Using an arrangement also known as a Halbach array, the magnetic flux can be strengthened on one side and weakened on the other side.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux intensification: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

A coil which is movable relative to the side parts is arranged between the side parts, which face each other with the side on which the flux intensification occurs. Driving the coil creates a force between the side pieces and the coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force generation: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentEP2346051B1Magnetic actuator and method for its assembly
Publication Date: 2014.06.25 INTEGRATED DYNAMICS ENG
  • EP2346051B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2346051B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2346051B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a magnetic actuator in which the permanent magnets are arranged in a Halbach configuration and are inserted into a slide-in frame.