Magnetic Field Generator Support Split for Interference-Free Position Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manufacturing of magnetic field generating units with complicated shapes is costly and time-consuming due to the need for complex support structures that prevent interference and maintain distance from other magnetic materials, limiting the accuracy and efficiency of position detection devices.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic field generating unit is supported by two independent structures, one fixed to the object and the other supporting the magnetic field generator, allowing for simplified shapes and reduced manufacturing costs while maintaining accuracy by using nonmagnetic materials for the second support structure to avoid magnetic interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single complicated support structure is used to prevent magnetic interference and maintain distance, then the magnetic field generator is properly supported, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field support stabilityVSAvoidsupport structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into two independent parts: a first support structure fixed to the moving object and a second support structure supporting the magnetic field generator. This segmentation allows each part to have a simpler, more standardized shape while collectively achieving the required magnetic isolation and positional stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a complicated support structure is used to prevent interference with mechanical devices, then proper spacing is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic interferenceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the support function into two independent structures, each can be manufactured using standard processes with simpler geometries, reducing manufacturing cost while collectively providing the necessary magnetic interference prevention and spacing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second support structure acts as an intermediary between the magnetic field generator and the first support structure, providing magnetic isolation and positioning without requiring the first support structure to have a complicated shape, thus reducing manufacturing difficulty.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Shape

If sheet metal processing or forging is used for complicated shapes, then the support structure can be formed, but the number of manufacturing steps and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport structure shapeVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the support system into two independently manufacturable structures allows each to be produced using efficient standard processes rather than requiring complex multi-step processes for a single complicated structure, thereby improving manufacturing productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This approach enables the accurate and cost-effective manufacturing of magnetic field generating units with complex shapes, ensuring precise position detection by minimizing magnetic interference and allowing for the selection of suitable materials for both support structures and yokes, thereby enhancing detection accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic field generator; a first support structure that is fixed to the object; and a second support structure that is independent of the first support structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS11754642B2Magnetic field generating unit, position detecting device and method of manufacturing magnetic field generating unit
Publication Date: 2023.09.12 TDK CORP
  • US11754642B2 patent drawing
  • US11754642B2 patent drawing
  • US11754642B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Magnetic field generating unit is fixed to object that moves relative to magnetic field detecting means. Magnetic field generating unit has magnetic field generator, first support structure that is fixed to object and second support structure that is independent of first support structure. Second support structure is supported by first support structure and supports magnetic field generator. For example, second support structure is formed of a nonmagnetic material, and magnetic field generator is arranged away from first support structure.