Magnetic Shape Memory Pipe for Pump-Free Fluid Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid transport systems require external pumps, which are not suitable for small form factor applications due to space constraints and limitations in controlling fluid flow and pressure.
Innovation Solution
A fluid transport system utilizing a magnetic shape memory pipe with a magnetic shape memory alloy that expands and contracts in response to a control magnetic field generated by surrounding devices, creating a peristaltic pumping action to facilitate fluid flow without external pumps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external pumps are used to transport fluid, then fluid flow control is achieved, but system footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid transport function and the control mechanism into a single integrated pipe structure. The magnetic shape memory alloy pipe itself performs both the fluid containment and the active diameter modulation, eliminating the need for separate external pumps and reducing system footprint while maintaining fluid flow control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic shape memory alloy pipe serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the fluid transport conduit, the actuator for diameter change, and the control mechanism for fluid flow regulation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components and reduces overall system size
2Productivity
If external pumps are used to transport fluid, then fluid transport is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic shape memory alloy pipe is self-actuating through direct application of magnetic fields. The material inherently responds to magnetic stimulation by changing its diameter, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, motors, or control systems that would be required in traditional pump designs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pumping systems with a magnetic field-based actuation mechanism. Instead of using mechanical impellers, pistons, or diaphragms driven by motors, the system uses magnetic fields to directly induce shape changes in the alloy pipe, simplifying the overall device architecture
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
This solution enables efficient fluid transport in small form factor systems by minimizing the footprint and providing precise control over fluid flow and pressure through the selective alteration of the pipe's inner diameter, eliminating the need for external pumps.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic shape memory pipe includes a magnetic shape memory alloy. One or more magnetic field generating devices surrounding the outer surface of the magnetic shape memory pipe are configured to generate a control magnetic field that, when applied to a region of the magnetic shape memory pipe, alters the inner diameter of the region of the magnetic shape memory pipe.
Implementation Method 2
one or more magnetic field generating devices surrounding the outer surface of the magnetic shape memory pipe and configured to generate a control magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid transport system that includes a magnetic shape memory pipe having an input end opposite an output end and an outer surface opposite an inner surface. The inner surface defines an inner diameter of the magnetic shape memory pipe and the magnetic shape memory pipe includes a magnetic shape memory alloy. The fluid transport system further includes one or more magnetic field generating devices surrounding the outer surface of the magnetic shape memory pipe and configured to generate a control magnetic field that, when applied to a region of the magnetic shape memory pipe, alters the inner diameter of the region of the magnetic shape memory pipe.