Interlocking Magnetic Coupling Members for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic coupling systems for stages and platforms require tools for assembly and disassembly, are prone to tool misplacement or breakage, and lack the ability to securely attach in specific positions and orientations, making them inefficient for rapid assembly and disassembly by unskilled individuals.
Innovation Solution
The development of interlocking magnetic coupling members with selectively arranged magnets that provide alignment and detachable engagement, allowing for manual connection and disconnection with a single hand, and enabling interchangeable parts to be securely attached in specific positions and orientations without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional magnetic coupling systems are used, then magnetic attraction holds devices to surfaces, but the magnets have weaker lateral attractive force permitting movement and relative displacement between surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system is divided into multiple discrete magnets arranged in specific patterns within housings. Each magnet contributes to the overall magnetic attraction while the segmented arrangement creates multiple engagement points, preventing lateral movement and rotation. The segmentation allows the system to provide both strong attraction force and positional stability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnets are arranged in asymmetric patterns within the housings, with different configurations for male and female coupling members. This asymmetric arrangement creates directional magnetic forces that guide alignment during assembly and prevent rotation once engaged. The asymmetric pattern ensures that the magnets engage in a specific orientation, providing both attraction and positional stability.
2Reliability
If tools are used for assembly and disassembly of stages and platforms, then components can be secured together, but the process is slowed and tools can be broken or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling members are designed to self-align and self-engage through magnetic attraction forces. When the male and female coupling members are brought into proximity, the magnets automatically guide them into the correct orientation and secure them together without requiring external tools. This self-service mechanism eliminates tool handling time and reduces the skill level required for assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical fastening system requiring tools (screws, bolts, wrenches) is replaced with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic attraction forces perform the fastening function that previously required mechanical tools, enabling tool-free assembly and disassembly while maintaining secure connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic couplings allow lateral movement for adjustability, then positioning flexibility is improved, but specific position and orientation control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling members are pre-configured with specific magnet arrangements that create predetermined engagement positions. When the male and female members approach each other, the magnetic fields guide them into the pre-determined correct orientation and position. This preliminary configuration of magnetic patterns ensures that adaptability is maintained while precision is achieved through the pre-designed magnetic guidance paths.
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 rapid, tool-free assembly and disassembly of stages and platforms, ensuring secure attachment and alignment, which improves efficiency and reduces the risk of damage to components.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic coupling members with selectively arranged magnets that provide alignment and detachable engagement
Implementation Method 2
the magnet has weaker lateral attractive force permitting the magnet to be moved up or down on a metal surface
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic coupling member, method, and system including a housing and a first arrangement of a plurality of magnets housed within the housing is disclosed. The first arrangement of magnets is selectively arranged and disposed to provide alignment and detachable engagement with a second arrangement of a plurality of magnets.