Notched Inductor Layout for Uniform Flanged-Edge Induction Forming

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing induction forming devices for electrically conductive parts in the aeronautical field face issues with inhomogeneous deformation of flanged edges, leading to unsatisfactory shape outcomes and varying deformation rates across different parts of the edge.

Innovation Solution

The induction forming device incorporates an inductor with notches that narrow its cross-section, allowing for a more intense current distribution at the edges, ensuring homogeneous deformation of electrically conductive parts while maintaining a short forming time. The notches are strategically positioned to enhance current intensity at the ends, ensuring uniform deformation of the flanged edges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional induction forming devices are used, then forming speed is high, but deformation uniformity of flanged edges deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation uniformityVSAvoidforming speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The inductive part incorporates notches that create local variations in cross-sectional area, concentrating the induced current at specific locations (flanged edges) while maintaining overall high-speed forming capability. This local modification of geometry enables differential current distribution to achieve uniform deformation across different regions of the workpiece.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Manufacturing precision

If current intensity is increased at edge portions, then deformation uniformity improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation uniformityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The notches modify the electrical and magnetic field distribution parameters by creating geometric discontinuities in the inductive part. This changes the induced current density distribution without requiring overall current intensity increase, thereby achieving edge concentration with moderate total energy input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 achieves better deformation consistency and efficiency of electrically conductive parts, ensuring uniformity and reducing forming time, as the increased current intensity at the edges leads to homogeneous deformation across the flanged edges.

Implementation Method 1

an inductor configured to deform by induction a portion of an electrically conductive workpiece... an inductive part electrically connecting the first power supply terminal and the second power supply terminal, the inductive part being intended to induce a current in the electrically conductive piece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

This electromagnetic field induces a current in a portion of the part, generating Lorentz forces. These Lorentz forces can deform the electrically conductive part of the workpiece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 3

the inductive part comprising at least one notch defining a narrowing of a cross-section of this inductive part, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction... the notches, for example, allow for increasing the current intensity at the ends of the inductive section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGeometric field concentration:

Data Source

PatentEP3986630B1Induction moulding device comprising an inductor configured to deform by induction a portion of an electrically conductive part, and deforming method implemented by such a device
Publication Date: 2023.06.07 AIRBUS ATLANTIC (SAS)
  • EP3986630B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3986630B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3986630B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Said induction moulding device comprises an inductor (14) configured to deform by induction a portion of an electrically conductive part, the inductor (14) comprising a first power terminal (30), a second power terminal (32) and at least one inductive portion (34) electrically connecting the first power terminal (30) and the second power terminal (32), the inductive portion (34) being intended to induce an induced current in the electrically conductive part, the inductive portion (34) extending in a longitudinal direction (L) in which a supply current is intended to flow between the first power terminal (30) and the second power terminal (32), the inductive portion (34) comprising at least one notch (40) defining a narrowing of a cross section of said inductive portion (34) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).