Magnetic Coupling Tool With Sensor Feedback and Degaussing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic coupling devices face challenges in accurately determining the actual pull force on ferromagnetic workpieces due to factors like air gaps, uneven contact, and stray magnetic fields, and require separate tools for degaussing, which complicates integration with robotic systems and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic coupling tool with integrated magnetic field sensors and a logic control circuit to determine the tool's operating state, including proper coupling and positioning, and includes degaussing capabilities to remove residual magnetism, all within a compact design for robotic integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetic coupling devices use high magnetic permeability pole shoes to channel magnetic flux, then the magnetic retention capability is improved, but the actual pull force determination becomes inaccurate due to air gaps and stray magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on the actual pull force and magnetic coupling status. This feedback mechanism allows the system to monitor and compensate for inaccuracies caused by air gaps and stray magnetic fields, resolving the contradiction between maintaining strong magnetic retention and achieving accurate pull force measurement.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If separate degaussing tools are used to remove residual magnetism, then the degaussing function is achieved, but the device complexity and integration with robotic systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the degaussing function directly into the magnetic coupling device by incorporating degaussing coils within the same structure. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate degaussing tools, reduces integration complexity with robotic systems, and allows both magnetic retention and degaussing operations to be performed by a single unified device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for magnetic coupling and degaussing, then each function can be optimized independently, but the cost and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal magnetic coupling device that performs multiple functions: magnetic retention through pole shoes, pull force measurement through sensors, and residual magnetism removal through integrated degaussing coils. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components while maintaining the ability to optimize each function independently through dedicated structural elements.
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 solution provides precise feedback on coupling and positioning, ensuring safe and efficient magnetic retention while allowing for integrated degaussing, enhancing robotic operations and reducing additional tool requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A first magnetic field sensor of the plurality of magnetic field sensors positioned to monitor a first magnetic flux associated with the first workpiece engagement surface
Implementation Method 2
perform a degaussing cycle with the plurality of degaussing electrical windings, the degaussing cycle including generating an oscillating and alternating magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
Magnetic coupling devices are disclosed having magnetic field sensors. The magnetic coupling device may include degaussing coils wrapped about pole extension shoes of the magnetic coupling device.