Integral Swing Unit Structure for Compact High-Force Vibrators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibration generators face challenges in increasing vibration force relative to size due to the need for large space for deformation of plate springs, complex assembly processes, and high variability in performance.

Innovation Solution

A vibration generator with a frame, swing unit, and elastic member integrally molded together, where the swing unit is movable within the frame, and a coil is used to excite the swing unit for reciprocatory motion, allowing for efficient vibration generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a plate spring is used to hold the magnet in a linear motor, then the magnet can be moved by elastic deformation, but a relatively large space is required for the plate spring to deform

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevibration forceVSAvoidspace for spring deformation
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The plate spring is divided into multiple segments (first plate spring segment and second plate spring segment) connected at a joint. This segmentation allows the spring to achieve the necessary elastic deformation within a smaller overall space, as each segment can deform independently rather than requiring a single large deformation zone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plate spring structure transitions from a single-plane deformation to a multi-dimensional deformation by introducing a joint that allows bending in different directions. The first and second plate spring segments can deform in different planes, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space for elastic deformation and reducing the required footprint area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of manufacture

If the magnet, plate spring, and frame unit are assembled as separate members, then the vibration generator can be manufactured, but the number of assembly steps increases and manufacturing becomes relatively complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidnumber of assembly steps
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first plate spring segment is integrally formed with the frame unit, and the second plate spring segment is integrally formed with the magnet. This merging of components reduces the number of separate parts that need to be assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing assembly steps while maintaining the functional benefits of the plate spring structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If separate members are assembled to form the vibration generator, then manufacturing is possible, but assembly accuracy is difficult to ensure and performance variation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly accuracyVSAvoidperformance consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By integrally forming the plate spring segments with the frame unit and magnet respectively, the patent eliminates the need for precise assembly between separate components. The integral formation ensures consistent geometric relationships and eliminates assembly tolerances, thereby improving manufacturing precision and reducing performance variation between individual vibration generators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design enables easy and accurate assembly, reduces manufacturing complexity, and achieves a large vibration force while maintaining a compact size, with improved reliability and durability.

Implementation Method 1

a coil unit disposed so as to sandwich the magnet from above and underneath being excited

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the swing unit moves with respect to the frame according to excitation of the coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 3

the swing unit is movable with respect to the frame while deforming the elastic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11837936B2Vibrator generator having swing unit, frame and elastic member
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 MINEBEAMITSUMI INC
  • US11837936B2 patent drawing
  • US11837936B2 patent drawing
  • US11837936B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vibrator includes a frame, a swing unit, and an elastic member. The swing unit is disposed within the frame and holds a magnet. The elastic member connects the swing unit and the frame. The swing unit is movable with respect to the frame while deforming the elastic member. The frame, the swing unit, and the elastic member are integrally molded with each other.