Permanent-Magnetic Radial Rotary Coupling for Compact Torque Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic couplings face challenges in achieving high torque transmission in small dimensions due to manufacturability and space constraints, particularly with Halbach arrays which are difficult to produce and require additional components for flux guidance, leading to design issues.
Innovation Solution
A permanent-magnetic radial rotary coupling using a first cylindrical magnet with radial magnetization and a second hollow-cylindrical magnet with a Halbach array configuration, where the strong side of the Halbach array is the inner side, allowing for efficient magnetic flux guidance without additional space-consuming components, enabling high torque transmission in compact designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a Halbach array is used to concentrate magnetic flux and increase torque, then torque transmission is improved, but manufacturing difficulty increases and additional space is required for flux guidance components
Solution Approach 1:
The Halbach array is divided into multiple magnet segments (first through fourth segments) arranged around the inner permanent magnet. Each segment is independently magnetized to create the desired flux concentration pattern, making manufacturing feasible while achieving the torque enhancement benefits of a complete Halbach array
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses radial magnetization directions in the vertical dimension to achieve flux concentration without requiring additional horizontal space for return paths. By orienting magnetization radially outward or inward depending on the segment position, the system concentrates flux in the radial dimension while maintaining a compact overall structure
2Force
If additional components are added to guide magnetic flux and shield the field, then torque transmission is improved, but device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic flux guidance function is merged into the permanent magnet segments themselves through strategic magnetization directions. The segments both generate and guide the magnetic flux simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate guidance components and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The outer permanent magnet segments serve multiple functions: they generate magnetic flux, guide flux concentration toward the inner magnet, and provide structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining effective torque transmission
3Volume of moving object
If magnet dimensions are reduced to achieve compact design, then installation space is reduced, but achieving necessary torque becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet segments are configured with specific local magnetization directions (radially outward or inward) optimized for their position. This local optimization concentrates magnetic flux precisely where needed in the air gap, maximizing torque production from minimal magnet volume and enabling compact design without sacrificing torque capability
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 configuration allows for high torque transmission in very small dimensions, reducing the required magnet volume and avoiding production-related disadvantages, enabling applications in miniature pumps and medical devices with small dimensions, such as 6 mm coupling outer diameter and 5 mm length, while maintaining efficiency and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
magnets or pairs of magnets arranged concentrically one inside the other are used to transmit torques without contact
Implementation Method 2
An arrangement as a Halbach array concentrates the magnetic flux without additional magnetic returns and thus increases the torque
Implementation Method 3
The first permanent magnet has a radial or a parallel magnetization and the second permanent magnet comprises a Halbach array
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a permanent-magnetic radial rotary coupling (100) comprising a first cylindrical permanent magnet (102) and a second hollow-cylindrical permanent magnet (104), wherein the inner diameter of the second permanent magnet (104) is larger than the outer diameter of the first permanent magnet (102). The first permanent magnet (102) and the second permanent magnet (104) are arranged coaxially and mounted such that they can rotate about the common axis (106). Both the first permanent magnet (102) and the second permanent magnet (104) comprise at least one pole pair. The first permanent magnet (102) comprises the same number of pole pairs as the second permanent magnet (104). The first permanent magnet (102) has a radial or a parallel magnetization and the second permanent magnet (104) comprises a Halbach array, the strong side of which is the inner side of the second permanent magnet (104).