Magnetic Latch Actuator for Constant Probe Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linear actuators face challenges in maintaining constant contact forces during prolonged testing of delicate components without causing damage, as existing actuators either apply excessive force leading to premature failure or fail to meet high force requirements due to size constraints.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic latch mechanism that allows the actuator to be de-energized while maintaining constant force, using a soft landing procedure to ensure controlled contact and employing a resilience mechanism to manage force levels, enabling precise and prolonged contact without overheating or machine failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the actuator is energized for prolonged periods to maintain constant contact force during testing, then measurement accuracy is improved, but heat generation increases leading to premature apparatus failure
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic latch mechanism enables periodic energizing of the actuator rather than continuous operation. The actuator is energized briefly to move the test-probe assembly into contact with the component, then de-energized while the magnetic latch maintains the contact position. This periodic action pattern allows prolonged measurement capability without continuous heat generation, resolving the contradiction between measurement accuracy and apparatus reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the continuous electromagnetic force generation with a magnetic latch mechanism that uses magnetic fields to maintain mechanical contact. Instead of relying on continuous electrical power to the actuator coil, the system uses a magnetic latch to hold the mechanical position, substituting continuous electromagnetic action with a passive magnetic holding mechanism, thereby reducing heat generation while maintaining measurement capability
2Productivity
If the actuator size is reduced to meet footprint requirements for high-contact-density components, then productivity is improved, but force generation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic latch mechanism performs preliminary action by establishing and maintaining the contact force before the actual measurement process begins. The actuator quickly positions the test-probe assembly and engages the magnetic latch to maintain constant contact force throughout the measurement duration. This allows the use of smaller actuators that can rapidly position components while the magnetic latch sustains the required contact force, resolving the contradiction between compact size and force capability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic latch acts as an intermediary mechanism between the actuator and the test-probe assembly. It decouples the size constraints of the actuator from the force requirements of the measurement process. The compact actuator only needs to overcome static friction to engage the latch, while the magnetic latch provides the sustained holding force needed for accurate measurement, enabling small actuators to meet high force requirements
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
Enables precise and prolonged contact testing without damaging components or causing actuator failure, allowing for efficient testing of high-contact-density components with reduced energy consumption and extended actuator lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet coupled to the adapter. The magnet is configured to engage with the ferrous plate when the shaft is extended from the housing of the linear actuator to retain the shaft in a fixed position
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus, and method for using a magnetic latch to maintain a desired force between a test-probe assembly and a surface of a component. The method includes moving the test-probe assembly into an approach position, the approach position being a predetermined distance from the surface of a component. The test-probe assembly is then moved from the approach position to the surface of a component pursuant to a soft landing procedure. The method further includes magnetically latching the test-probe assembly in contact with the surface of a component at a constant force. The moving coil of the actuator can be de-energized while the test-probe assembly performs measurements on the component. After the testing is completed, the moving coil is energized and the test-probe assembly is retracted away from the component. The applied force may be monitored based upon an output of a load cell responsive to a force exerted by the test-probe assembly.