Magnetic Robot Transfer Across Multi-Surface Work Bodies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing displacement devices are limited in their range of motion in directions orthogonal to a working surface, have limited motion on multiple levels, and are costly, lacking integration with mechanical transfer devices and on-mover actuation capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic movement apparatus with magnetic bodies and magnet arrays that interact with electrically conductive elements to enable controllable motion in multiple directions, including levitation, and a mechanical link system for detachable coupling of gears, allowing movement between multiple working surfaces and integration with mechanical transfer devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If magnetic movement apparatus is used to enable controllable motion in multiple directions including levitation, then motion range and flexibility are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotion rangeVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic movement apparatus is divided into multiple independent magnetic bodies (first magnetic body, second magnetic body) that can move relative to each other. Each magnetic body contains magnet arrays that interact with electrically conductive elements independently, allowing complex motion to be achieved through coordinated movement of simpler segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Electrically conductive elements serve as intermediaries between the magnetic bodies and the work surface. These elements generate magnetic fields that enable levitation and controlled motion without direct physical contact, facilitating movement in multiple directions including orthogonal to the working surface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If mechanical link system with detachable coupling of gears is used, then integration with mechanical transfer devices is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintegration capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical link system is designed with detachable coupling mechanisms that allow the magnetic movement apparatus to interface with various mechanical transfer devices. The gear system can be engaged or disengaged as needed, providing universal compatibility with different transfer mechanisms while maintaining magnetic levitation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical link system transitions between magnetic levitation mode and mechanical contact mode dynamically. Gears can be detachably coupled to transfer devices when mechanical transfer is needed, and disengaged when magnetic movement suffices, allowing the system to adapt its complexity to operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If magnetic bodies move relative to each other through interaction with electrically conductive elements, then motion control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotion control precisionVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic bodies utilize periodic interaction with electrically conductive elements to achieve controlled motion. By selectively activating magnet arrays in sequence and using periodic magnetic field generation, the system achieves precise motion control while minimizing continuous energy consumption, as energy is applied only when needed for position adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 integrates with low-cost mechanical transfer systems, providing active manipulation and actuation capabilities without physical connections.

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

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

magnetic bodies and magnet arrays that interact with electrically conductive elements to enable controllable motion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260027735A1Robotic devices and methods for fabrication, use and control of same

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 PLANAR MOTOR INC

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.