Magnetic Robot Transfer and Levitation for 3D Surface Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing displacement devices face limitations in extending the range of motion in directions orthogonal to a working surface, are limited to single-plane movement, and lack integration with mechanical transfer devices, active manipulation capabilities, and biologically clean automation systems.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic movement apparatus using magnet arrays and magnetic fields to enable multi-directional motion, including orthogonal and rotational movements, with detachable gear coupling and magnetic levitation, and integration with mechanical transfer devices, while utilizing plastic components for cost-effectiveness and cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single moving stage is designed to move in multiple directions including orthogonal to the working surface, then the need for additional bearings is eliminated, but the range of motion in directions orthogonal to the working surface is limited to a few millimeters due to exponential decay of magnetic interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D planar motion to 3D spatial motion by enabling the moveable stage to move not only in the X and Y directions parallel to the working surface but also in the Z direction orthogonal to it. This is achieved through magnetic levitation that provides freedom of motion in all three spatial dimensions, fundamentally expanding the motion capability from a plane to a volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical bearing systems with magnetic field-based levitation and positioning. Instead of using physical contact bearings to constrain and guide motion, the system uses magnetic forces to provide contactless support and control, enabling motion in multiple directions including the orthogonal Z direction without the limitations of mechanical bearing geometry.
2Manufacturing precision
If magnetic levitation is used to enable multi-directional motion, then motion smoothness and precision are improved, but the gap between the moveable stage and work body must be maintained within strict limits due to exponential decay of magnetic interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously monitors the position of the moveable stage relative to the work body and adjusts the magnetic field forces accordingly. Sensors detect position deviations, and the control system modifies the currents in the electrically conductive elements to maintain the optimal gap and achieve precise positioning, counteracting the exponential decay of magnetic interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the electrical parameters (currents) in the electrically conductive elements to maintain optimal magnetic interaction. By adjusting the magnitude and distribution of currents in real-time, the system compensates for variations in gap distance and maintains precise control over the moveable stage's position and motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple magnetic bodies are used to achieve complex motion, then motion flexibility is improved, but the relative motion between magnetic bodies must be constrained in certain directions while allowing motion in others
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the moveable robot into multiple independent magnetic bodies that can be controlled separately. Each magnetic body can be actuated independently by specific electrically conductive elements, allowing complex composite motions to be achieved by coordinating the motion of individual magnetic bodies without requiring complex mechanical linkages between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control system where the same magnetic field generation mechanism and control architecture can constrain or enable motion in any desired direction by simply changing the current distribution. The electrically conductive elements can generate magnetic forces in multiple directions, providing a multi-functional capability to control relative motion between magnetic bodies without requiring different mechanical constraint mechanisms for each direction.
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
Enhances motion range and flexibility, reduces production footprint, and provides active manipulation and biologically clean automation, improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness in robotic applications.
Implementation Method 1
each magnetic body in the plurality of magnetic bodies comprising at least one magnet array comprising a plurality of magnetization elements configured to cause the at least one mover to experience one or more forces when at least one of the plurality of magnetization elements interacts with one or more magnetic fields
Implementation Method 2
causing a first one of the plurality of magnetic bodies mechanically linked to a second one of the plurality of magnetic bodies to move relative to the second magnetic body in response to modulating at least one magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments relate to magnetically moveable displacement devices or robotic devices. Particular embodiments provide systems and corresponding methods for magnetically moving multiple movable robots relative to one or more working surfaces of respective one or more work bodies, and for moving robots between the one or more work bodies via transfer devices. Robots can carry one or more objects among different locations, manipulate carried objects, and/or interact with their surroundings for particular functionality including but not limited to assembly, packaging, inspection, 3D printing, test, laboratory automation, etc. A mechanical link may be mounted on planar motion units such as said robots.