Orthogonal Sector Motor for Fine Optical Axis Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical devices attached to aircraft or high-volatility systems require improved methods and systems for fine-tuning and stabilization beyond traditional coarse stabilizers.

Innovation Solution

A multi-axis motor system comprising a first and second elongate magnet member, mechanically coupled and orthogonal to each other, with a fine axis structure capable of adjusting two axes, and a stabilized sensor system with coarse and fine axis motors for precise optical device stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional coarse stabilizers are used for optical devices on aircraft, then the device can be stabilized, but fine-tuning and precise stabilization is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestabilization precisionVSAvoidstabilizer system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilizer system is segmented into two distinct components: a coarse stabilizer for large-angle adjustments and a fine stabilizer for precise small-angle corrections. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its specific function, achieving both coarse positioning and fine stabilization without requiring a single complex system to handle all ranges of motion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fine stabilizer is mechanically coupled to the coarse stabilizer, merging two separate stabilization functions into a single integrated system. The fine axis structure is attached to move with the coarse stabilizer while providing independent fine adjustments, combining the capabilities of both stabilizers into one coordinated unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Volume of moving object

If a fine axis sector motor is designed to actuate two axes of motion, then compact design is achieved, but the motor structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor volumeVSAvoidmotor structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Two orthogonal magnet members (first and second elongate magnet members) are mechanically coupled and integrated into a single motor structure. This merging allows the motor to generate forces in two orthogonal directions simultaneously, actuating both fine azimuth and fine elevation axes with one compact motor unit rather than requiring two separate motors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The motor design incorporates magnet members extending in orthogonal dimensions, with the first elongate magnet member oriented in one direction and the second elongate magnet member oriented perpendicular to it. This dimensional arrangement enables the motor to produce forces in multiple directions from a single structure, achieving two-axis actuation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Force

If the fine axis sector motor is placed at a location with high mechanical advantage, then force efficiency is improved, but space for cooling may be limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce efficiencyVSAvoidcooling efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides for cooling mechanisms positioned near the motor components, acting as intermediaries to transfer heat away from the high-force-generation areas. The cooling system is strategically placed to access heat-generating components without interfering with the mechanical advantage positioning of the motor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 provides precise adjustment and stabilization of optical devices over small angles with efficient force generation and compact design, allowing for concurrent movement in both azimuth and elevation axes, enhancing stabilization and cooling efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a first elongate magnet member disposed in a first orientation and a second elongate magnet member disposed in a second orientation orthogonal to the first orientation and mechanically coupled to the first elongate magnet member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12461382B2Multi-axis sector motor
Publication Date: 2025.11.04 DRS NETWORK & IMAGING SYSTEMS LLC
  • US12461382B2 patent drawing
  • US12461382B2 patent drawing
  • US12461382B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-axis motor includes a first elongate magnet member disposed in a first orientation and a second elongate magnet member disposed in a second orientation orthogonal to the first orientation and mechanically coupled to the first elongate magnet member. The first elongate magnet member is operable to adjust a first axis of a fine axis structure. The second elongate magnet member is operable to adjust a second axis of the fine axis structure.