Magnetic Float Release Assembly for Secure Timed Underwater Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater float systems used to mark submerged objects are prone to tangling, damage, and increased risk of vandalism or theft due to their visibility and tethering to submersible objects.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic release assembly integrated with a releasable float assembly, comprising a permanent electromagnet, a microcontroller, a timer board, and a power source, which allows for programmable release of the float at a predetermined time, enhancing security and reducing visibility-related risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a float is tethered to a submerged object to mark its location, then the location is visible and marked, but the float may become tangled or damaged by watercraft and increases the risk of vandalism or theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical tether connection with a magnetic field-based connection. The electromagnet mounted on the submerged object wirelessly magnetically couples with the float, eliminating the physical tether that causes tangling and damage. This allows the float to be securely held in position without direct mechanical connection to watercraft or other objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the submerged object and the float. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that acts as a non-contact connector, allowing the float to be held in position without direct physical contact. This intermediary field transmission eliminates the harmful mechanical tether while maintaining the marking function.
2Loss of information
If a float is consistently visible to mark the submerged object, then the location is always identifiable, but the risk of vandalism or theft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the float's visibility dynamic rather than static. The float can be positioned to mark the location when needed, and the magnetic connection allows for flexible positioning and potential concealment. The system can adjust the float's position and visibility characteristics based on security requirements, rather than maintaining constant fixed visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the marking function from the tether connection. The float serves as the visible marker while the electromagnet provides the secure connection, allowing independent optimization of each function. The float can be designed for visibility while the magnetic system handles security, eliminating the need for a visible tether that attracts vandals.
3Extent of automation
If a magnetic release assembly with microcontroller and timer board is added to control float release, then programmable release at predetermined time is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electromagnet to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the magnetic connector to hold the float and the actuator for releasing the float. The microcontroller integrates timing, control logic, and electromagnet activation in a single unit. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the electromagnet, microcontroller, and power source into an integrated assembly mounted on the submerged object. The control electronics are merged with the magnetic actuator rather than being separate systems. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall system architecture while providing programmable release functionality.
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 magnetic release assembly effectively secures the float to the submerged object until a programmed release time, minimizing the risk of theft or vandalism and maintaining the float's functionality without tangling or damage.
Implementation Method 1
A permanent electromagnet is positioned within the cavity
Implementation Method 2
The microcontroller is configured to provide power to the permanent electromagnet
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic release assembly includes a housing defining a cavity, a permanent electromagnet positioned within the cavity, and a microcontroller electronically coupled with the permanent electromagnet. The microcontroller is configured to selectively provide power to the permanent electromagnet. A timer board is in communication with the microcontroller. A power source is electronically coupled with the microcontroller, the permanent electromagnet, and the timer board. The microcontroller is configured to provide power to the permanent electromagnet in response to an alarm from the timer board.