Servo Valve Torque Motor Vibration Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrohydraulic servo valve torque motors are vulnerable to vibrations due to their reliance on interference or friction fits for securing permanent magnets, which can affect their performance and reliability in aerospace applications.

Innovation Solution

The use of mechanical fixings, such as bolts or screws, to secure permanent magnets between pole pieces, allowing for improved resistance to vibrations and the ability to interchange and adjust magnet types like AlNiCo and SmCo magnets, along with adjustable air gaps for enhanced performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If interference or friction fit is used to secure permanent magnets, then the torque motor structure is simpler, but the resistance to vibrations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque motor structureVSAvoidresistance to vibrations

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnet securing structure is segmented into multiple independent mechanical fixings (screws or clips) distributed around the magnet's circumference, rather than relying on a single interference fit. This segmentation allows each fixing point to independently resist vibration forces, improving overall reliability while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the purely mechanical interference/friction fit system with a hybrid system that incorporates additional mechanical fixings (screws or clips). This substitution introduces positive mechanical engagement elements that actively resist vibration forces, transforming the passive friction-based connection into an active mechanically locked structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If mechanical fixings are used to secure permanent magnets, then the resistance to vibrations is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance to vibrationsVSAvoidtorque motor structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Mechanical fixings are applied locally only at critical positions where vibration resistance is most needed, rather than throughout the entire magnet structure. The fixings are strategically positioned at the magnet's periphery or at points of highest stress, providing vibration resistance with minimal additional complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of trying to eliminate the need for mechanical fixings, the patent inverts the approach by accepting them as necessary and optimizing their placement and design. The fixings are made simple in design (standard screws or clips) but strategically positioned to provide maximum vibration resistance with minimum complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Stability of the object's composition

If permanent magnets are securely fixed, then the torque motor performance is stable, but the adaptability to different magnet types is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque motor performanceVSAvoidmagnet interchangeability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical fixing system is designed with universal applicability, using standardized screws or clips that can accommodate different magnet types (AlNiCo, SmCo, etc.) and sizes. The fixing mechanism serves multiple functions: securing magnets during operation, enabling easy removal, and facilitating interchangeability, all while maintaining stable torque motor performance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a dynamic system where the mechanical fixings can transition between a secure locked state during operation (providing stable performance) and an easily releaseable state for maintenance (enabling adaptability). This dynamic capability allows the same structure to provide both stability and interchangeability at different operational phases

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 design enhances the torque motor's resistance to vibrations and allows for adjustable performance, ensuring precise control of the servo valve, thereby improving the overall reliability and adaptability of the electrohydraulic servo valve in aerospace applications.

Implementation Method 1

a coil on the armature; wherein when an electrical current is passed through the coil the armature is rotatable against the member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

one or more permanent magnet(s) held between the pole pieces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2922071B1Servo valve torque motor

Publication Date: 2019.12.18 GOODRICH ACTUATION SYST

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6a

AI summary

A servo valve torque motor apparatus comprising: a pair of pole pieces 4, 6; one or more permanent magnet(s) 2 held between the pole pieces 4, 6; an armature 10 supported between the pole pieces 4, 6 for rotation about an axis; the armature 10 being for connection to a member that resists rotation of the armature 10; and a coil 8 on the armature 10; wherein when an electrical current is passed through the coil 8 the armature 10 is rotated against the member; and wherein the magnet(s) 2 is/are secured to the two pole pieces 4, 6 by mechanical fixings 16 passing through holes in the magnet(s) 2.