Magnetic Impeller Coupling for Tool-Free Mixer Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current impeller systems for mixing devices in clinical analyzers require complex tools and small, easily lost parts for replacement, leading to inefficiencies in cleaning and maintenance, and often necessitate disassembly of the entire mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A quick-connect and rotation impeller coupling system using diametrically magnetized members for magnetic torque transmission, allowing for tool-less installation and removal, and incorporating mechanical connectors for secure attachment and easy replacement, with optional Hall Effect sensors for monitoring impeller presence and velocity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional impeller connection systems are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but replacement and cleaning require specialized tools and complex disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The impeller connection system is divided into separable magnetic components: a magnetized member on the impeller and a complementary magnetic member on the motor shaft. This segmentation allows the impeller to be easily detached and reattached without complex tools, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, or set screws requiring tools) with a magnetic field-based connection system. The diametrically magnetized members create strong attractive forces for secure attachment while allowing tool-free removal, eliminating the need for specialized tools and reducing system complexity.
2Reliability
If impellers are securely fastened to prevent contamination, then reliability is improved, but replacement time and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connection system provides dynamic security: the magnetic force maintains reliable attachment during mixing operations to prevent contamination, but allows rapid detachment when cleaning or replacement is needed. This dynamic characteristic resolves the contradiction between secure fastening and quick replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
By substituting mechanical fasteners with magnetic attraction, the system achieves both secure attachment for reliability and rapid release for quick replacement. The magnetic field provides consistent holding force during operation but can be easily overcome for removal, reducing downtime while maintaining mixing accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If simple connection mechanisms are used, then ease of replacement is improved, but torque transmission reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The diametrically magnetized members create an asymmetric magnetic field distribution that provides strong torque transmission capability. The magnetic poles are positioned to maximize rotational force transfer while maintaining simple attachment, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and torque reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field strength and pole positioning parameters are optimized to provide sufficient torque transmission for mixing operations. By adjusting the magnetic moment and pole configuration, the system achieves reliable torque transfer through a simple magnetic connection without requiring complex mechanical 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
Facilitates easy and efficient cleaning and replacement of impellers, reduces downtime, and simplifies the process of aligning and attaching impellers, while providing accurate mixing results and minimizing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
the motor imparts rotational torque, via a magnetic field between the first member and the second member, on the first attachment end when the first attachment end and the second attachment end are connected
Implementation Method 2
incorporating mechanical connectors for secure attachment and easy replacement, with optional Hall Effect sensors for monitoring impeller presence and velocity
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides a quick-connect and rotation system for impeller coupling including: an impeller comprising: a mixer end; and a first attachment end; the first attachment end comprising a first member that is diametrically magnetized; and an motor comprising: a rotational shaft with a second attachment end comprising a second member that is diametrically magnetized; wherein the first attachment end and the second attachment end are complementary to each other; and wherein the motor imparts rotational torque, via a magnetic field between the first member and the second member, on the first attachment end when the first attachment end and the second attachment end are connected.