Linear Magnetic Coupling for Heavy-Load Release Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Magnetic coupling devices face challenges in efficiently coupling and de-coupling ferromagnetic workpieces due to limitations in magnetic field control and actuation mechanisms, particularly in linear motion, which affects their ability to handle and transport heavy loads effectively.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic coupling device with a linearly translatable magnetic platter and a housing that includes a ferrous piece and a magnetic shunt, allowing for controlled magnetic field changes between 'on' and 'off' states, enabling efficient coupling and de-coupling of ferromagnetic workpieces by adjusting the magnetic platter's position along a defined axis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If the magnetic platter is positioned close to the ferrous piece to enhance magnetic coupling, then the magnetic field strength increases, but the device cannot be de-actuated effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field strengthVSAvoidde-actuation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic platter is segmented into multiple permanent magnet portions with alternating polarity, creating discrete magnetic circuits that can be independently controlled through positioning, allowing selective coupling and de-coupling of different workpiece regions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic platter is made dynamically positionable along the housing axis between different states (first state for coupling, second state for de-coupling), enabling the device to switch between magnetically coupled and decoupled conditions through linear translation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a linearly translatable magnetic platter is used to enable de-coupling, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling and de-coupling capabilityVSAvoidactuation mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex multi-component actuation mechanisms with a simplified linear translation system, where the magnetic platter moves directly along the housing axis without requiring intermediate mechanical linkages, reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The linearly translatable magnetic platter serves multiple functions: it enables both coupling and de-coupling operations, supports workpieces of varying thicknesses through position adjustment, and maintains magnetic field control across different operational states, reducing the need for separate mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Force

If the magnetic platter is designed for heavy load handling, then the holding force increases, but the actuation energy requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding forceVSAvoidactuation energy
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The actuation system uses periodic linear translation of the magnetic platter between coupled and decoupled states, enabling controlled energy application during actuation while maintaining holding force during the stationary coupled state, reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous actuation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the actuation function to a separate linear translation mechanism independent of the magnetic field generation, allowing the magnetic platter to maintain heavy load holding capability through permanent magnets while the actuation energy is supplied separately through controlled positional changes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 device achieves enhanced magnetic flux transfer and holding force, allowing for the efficient lifting and handling of heavier ferromagnetic workpieces, with improved safety and energy efficiency in actuation, and the ability to de-stack different thicknesses of workpieces without replacing the magnetic platter.

Implementation Method 1

the magnetic platter being arranged adjacent to the ferrous piece such that the magnetic coupling device establishes a first magnetic circuit through the ferrous piece and provides a first magnetic field at a workpiece contact interface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

A magnetic coupling device with a linearly translatable magnetic platter and a housing that includes a ferrous piece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Implementation Method 3

enhanced magnetic flux transfer and holding force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS20240428972A1Linearly actuated magnetic coupling device
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 MAGSWITCH AUTOMATION CO
  • US20240428972A1 patent drawing
  • US20240428972A1 patent drawing
  • US20240428972A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to magnetic coupling devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to magnetic coupling devices configured to be linearly actuated and de-actuated.