Magnetic Rotor Perturbator for Multi-Axis Sensor Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing perturbator systems require multiple separate actuators to apply axial, rotational, and torsional forces to a rotating shaft, which complicates calibration of torsional, axial, and radial force sensors and introduces issues with added weight and friction.
Innovation Solution
A perturbator system comprising two rotors with magnets arranged to interact and create controlled torsional, axial, and radial forces, utilizing permanent and/or electromagnets to generate known perturbations by aligning and misaligning the magnets within the rotors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate actuators are used to apply axial, rotational, and torsional forces, then the sensor calibration can be performed, but the device complexity increases and friction losses occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuator functions into a single perturbator assembly that can apply axial, rotational, and torsional forces simultaneously. The perturbator includes a drive shaft connected to an actuator that generates combined force components, eliminating the need for multiple separate actuators while maintaining calibration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The perturbator is designed as a multi-functional device that can generate multiple types of forces (axial, rotational, torsional) through a single actuator system. The actuator can operate in different modes to produce various force components, making the system universal for calibrating different sensor types
2Force
If actuators contact the rotating shaft, then forces can be applied, but friction and added weight affect the perturbation data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact between actuators and the rotating shaft with magnetic field interactions. Electromagnets or permanent magnets are used to apply forces to the shaft without physical contact, eliminating friction losses while maintaining force application capability
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic fields serve as an intermediary between the actuator and the rotating shaft. The magnetic field transmits force from the actuator to the shaft without requiring direct mechanical contact, thus avoiding friction and wear
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
The system effectively generates known perturbations along the system components, allowing for precise calibration of sensors while minimizing the impact of added weight and friction, thus improving the accuracy and efficiency of sensor calibration.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second magnets can interact with the third and fourth magnets to create a torsional force
Implementation Method 2
the first, second, third, and fourth magnets can be arranged within the same axial plane perpendicular to an axis of rotation
Implementation Method 3
the first magnet, the second magnet, the third magnet, and the fourth magnet can be electromagnets configured to alter each of their respective magnetic fields
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for improved perturbation generation are provided. A perturbation generation system can include a first rotor and a second rotor. The first rotor can be configured to hold a first magnet and a second magnet. The second rotor can be configured to hold a third magnet and a fourth magnet. The first rotor can be rotatably and proximately arranged with the second rotor, where the first and second magnets can be configured to interact with the third and fourth magnets to create a force between the first rotor and the second rotor as the first rotor rotates relative to the second rotor.