Segmented Mirror Actuator Structure for Linear, Low-Coupling Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetically controlled segmented mirrors with circular symmetric actuators have low efficiency due to their layered structure, which affects their performance in applications like astronomy and laser communication.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a resilient membrane between yoke sections and uses integrally formed components, such as patterned blocks of soft-ferromagnetic and non-magnetic materials, to enhance assembly efficiency and linear response, allowing for more flexible and efficient actuation of mirror segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a layered structure with separate components is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the base and circumferential wall into an integrally formed yoke component, eliminating the need for separate assembly of these parts. This integration maintains manufacturing simplicity while improving actuator efficiency by creating better magnetic flux pathways and reducing mechanical play between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by integrating the resilient element directly into the yoke structure, creating a hybrid component that combines magnetic guiding functions with mechanical resilience. This composite approach improves efficiency while maintaining ease of manufacture through single-piece or pre-integrated component design.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate components are assembled, then ease of manufacture is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base and circumferential wall are merged into a single integrally formed yoke component, reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the overall structure. This integration maintains ease of manufacture through conventional forming processes while eliminating the complexity of assembling multiple separate components.
3Ease of manufacture
If modular assembly is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but mechanical coupling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integral formation of the base and circumferential wall eliminates mechanical joints and connections between these components, thereby eliminating unwanted mechanical coupling and force transmission. This approach maintains manufacturing simplicity through single-piece construction while reducing mechanical interference.
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 results in a significantly improved efficiency and flexibility of the electromagnetic actuators, enabling precise control of mirror segments with reduced mechanical coupling, enhancing the performance of segmented mirrors in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first resilient element arranged between the intermediate yoke section and one of the base yoke section and the top yoke section
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnetic actuator (1) for actuating a mirror segment (31) of a segmented mirror (30)
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic actuator including a soft-ferromagnetic yoke is described. The electromagnetic actuator includes an at least substantially cylindrical circumferential wall covered at a first end with a base and at a second end with a top, the circumferential wall defining an axis in a direction from the base end to the top. An intermediate yoke section holds a permanent magnet fixed that leaves an inner space housing an axially movable core element being flexibly restrained with at least one resilient element. One of a base yoke section and/or a top yoke section houses an electromagnetic coil.