Linear Actuator Yoke Coupling for Magnetic Circuit Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators, compressors, and pumps in household appliances face inefficiencies due to gaps in the magnetic circuit, which reduce the effectiveness of the linear motion generated by electromagnetic forces.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator design that includes a stator with multiple core elements, a magnet component spaced apart from the stator to create a circumferential air gap, and a yoke coupled to the magnet component, which together generate an alternating magnetic flux for linear reciprocation without an interspace, enhancing the magnetic path efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a circumferential air gap is formed between the stator and magnet component, then the linear reciprocating motion is enabled, but an interspace between the magnet component and yoke reduces magnetic circuit efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a yoke as an intermediary component that couples to the magnet component. This yoke serves as a magnetic flux conductor that bridges the gap between the magnet component and stator, providing a low-reluctance path for magnetic flux and eliminating the harmful interspace while enabling the linear reciprocating motion through electromagnetic interaction
2Ease of operation
If the magnet component is spaced apart from the stator to create a circumferential air gap, then linear motion is generated, but the magnetic flux path is interrupted reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite magnetic circuit structure combining the stator (with winding), magnet component (permanent magnet), and yoke (magnetic conductor) into an integrated assembly. This composite structure maintains magnetic flux continuity through the yoke while allowing the necessary air gap for linear motion generation, thereby achieving both motion generation and flux continuity
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 improved magnetic circuit efficiency results in enhanced performance of the linear actuator, compressor, and pump, leading to more effective linear motion and reduced energy losses in household appliances.
Implementation Method 1
Mutual electromagnetic force between the permanent magnet, the inner stator, and the outer stator causes a linear motion of the permanent magnet and, therewith, of the piston connected thereto
Implementation Method 2
said components of the linear actuator are arranged to generate an alternating magnetic flux in response to alternately poled electric power input
Implementation Method 3
a magnetic circuit thus is at least partially formed by the stator, the magnet component, and the yoke providing permeability paths for the magnetic flux
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
AI summary
Disclosed is a linear actuator 1 comprising a stator 10 comprising a plurality of core elements 11, 11a, 11b, a magnet component 20 spaced apart from the stator, and a yoke 30, which are adapted to generate, in consequence of alternating electric power input, an alternating magnetic flux producing a linearly reciprocating motion of the magnet component 20 relative to the stator 10. Therein, the yoke 30 is coupled to the magnet component 20. Further disclosed are a pump and a compressor 100 respectively comprising such linear actuator 1, and a household appliance comprising such pump and/or such compressor.