Electrically Driven Magnetic Shape Memory Micropump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Micropumps using permanent magnets are too large and bulky, generate stray magnetic fields that interfere with magnetically sensitive equipment, and offer limited control over the magnetic field, making them unsuitable for certain applications.
Innovation Solution
An electrically driven magnetic shape memory (MSM) system utilizing a magnetic shape memory element and a plurality of conductive coils, where the coils are laterally offset and aligned parallel to the MSM element, allowing for precise control of the magnetic field distribution by reversing the direction of electrical currents through the coils to actuate the pump mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a permanent magnet is used to generate the magnetic field, then the magnetic field can be produced continuously, but the device becomes too large and bulky for some applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the permanent magnet (mechanical/magnetic system) with an electrically driven coil system that generates magnetic fields through electromagnetic induction. This substitution allows the device to achieve the same magnetic field generation function while significantly reducing the size of the actuator, as coils can be made much smaller than permanent magnets while providing comparable or superior field control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static permanent magnet to a dynamic electromagnetic system where the magnetic field can be adjusted in real-time by controlling the electrical current. This dynamic approach allows the magnetic field strength and configuration to be optimized for different operating conditions, enabling compact design while maintaining continuous operation capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a permanent magnet is used to generate the magnetic field, then the magnetic field is stable, but stray magnetic fields are produced that may negatively affect magnetically sensitive equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the magnetic field generation function from a permanent magnet and relocates it to an electrically driven coil system. This separation allows the magnetic field to be contained and controlled within the coil structure, preventing stray fields from extending outward to affect nearby sensitive equipment while maintaining the necessary field stability for MSM actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrical current as an intermediary between the power source and the magnetic field generation. This intermediary allows for precise control and modulation of the magnetic field, enabling the system to generate stable fields when needed while minimizing or eliminating stray fields by adjusting the current characteristics and coil configuration.
3Force
If a permanent magnet is used to generate the magnetic field, then the magnetic field is consistently strong, but control over and customizability of the magnetic field strength is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the electrical current characteristics (magnitude, direction, frequency) to dynamically control the magnetic field strength. This allows the system to adjust the magnetic field to match the specific requirements of different MSM elements and pumping conditions, achieving both strong fields when needed and precise customization for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal magnetic field generation system through electrically driven coils that can perform multiple functions: generating strong magnetic fields for actuation, providing customizable field strengths for different MSM elements, and enabling various pumping modes. This multi-functional approach replaces the single-function permanent magnet with a versatile electromagnetic system.
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 solution enables a compact, customizable, and controlled magnetic field for micropump operation, reducing interference with magnetically sensitive devices and allowing for precise fluid pumping, making it suitable for applications where size and control are critical.
Implementation Method 1
applying electrical currents through a plurality of conductive coils to generate a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic shape memory (MSM) element configured to contract locally at a portion of the MSM element in response to local exposure to a magnetic field distribution component that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the MSM element
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation apparatus may include a magnetic shape memory (MSM) element configured to contract locally at a portion of the MSM element in response to local exposure to a magnetic field distribution component that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the MSM element. The apparatus may further include a plurality of conductive coils laterally offset from the MSM element. Central axes of each conductive coil of the plurality of conductive coils may be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the MSM element.