Short Block Linear Synchronous Motors for Precision Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport systems lack precise control and are costly when moving small and closely spaced objects on complex guideways, particularly in applications requiring sharp turns, merge and diverge switching, and inverted operation.
Innovation Solution
A guideway-based transport system using short block linear synchronous motors with propulsion coils and a flipper mechanism for precise vehicle control, allowing vehicles to switch directions and navigate complex paths without wheels or rolling elements, utilizing a coreless motor design with low friction surfaces and magnetic guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional transport systems (conveyor belts, air-propelled vehicles, gravitational systems) are used to move small and closely spaced objects, then the system cost is reduced, but precise control is lost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guideway is divided into multiple independent coil segments that can be individually controlled. Each coil acts as an independent actuator, allowing precise positioning of vehicles by controlling specific segments. This segmentation enables precise control without requiring a completely expensive system-wide solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The LSM coils serve multiple functions: propulsion, positioning, and control of vehicles. The same infrastructure (guideway with coils) handles both transport and precise control tasks that would otherwise require separate systems, reducing overall system cost while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If traditional LSM propulsion systems are used to move small and closely spaced objects, then precise control is achieved, but the system becomes more expensive and throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic pulsed control of the LSM coils to propel vehicles. By applying periodic electromagnetic pulses rather than continuous force, the system achieves precise control while allowing vehicles to coast between pulses, increasing throughput without sacrificing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts coil activation patterns based on vehicle position, speed, and spacing. This dynamic control allows optimal throughput by activating coils only when and where needed, rather than using continuous propulsion that would reduce efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If vehicles use wheels or rolling elements for movement, then the system is simpler and cheaper, but precise control and ability to navigate complex guideways is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical wheel-based propulsion with electromagnetic propulsion via LSM coils. This substitution eliminates the need for complex wheel mechanisms on vehicles while enabling precise control and navigation of complex guideways through electromagnetic forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The LSM coils act as an intermediary between the power source and the vehicle, transferring energy wirelessly through electromagnetic fields. This eliminates the need for direct mechanical contact (wheels) between the vehicle and guideway, simplifying vehicle structure while maintaining control capability.
4Ease of repair
If high drag vehicle suspension is used to allow sliding on smooth surfaces, then maintenance is reduced, but the force required for propulsion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the physical parameters of the vehicle-bottom surface and guideway contact by using an air bearing layer. This creates a gas lubrication effect that dramatically reduces friction while maintaining stable support, allowing smooth surfaces to function with minimal maintenance and reduced propulsive force requirements.
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
Enables efficient, precise, and cost-effective movement of small to medium-sized vehicles on complex guideways with sharp turns and switching operations, maintaining control and reducing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
a vehicle propulsion system that includes a linear synchronous motor having a magnetic flux source and a plurality of propulsion coils disposed in close proximity to one another along a portion of the guideway
Implementation Method 2
A coreless LSM can be used to create propulsive force without attractive force so as to allow a relatively high drag vehicle suspension
Implementation Method 3
The guideway includes a diverge region that has a flipper and an extension of the running surface at a vertex of the diverge. The flipper initiates switching of vehicle direction at a diverge by exerting a laterally directed force thereon.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides in some aspects a transport system comprising a guideway with a plurality of propulsion coils disposed along a region in which one or more vehicles are to be propelled. One or more vehicles are disposed on the guideway, each including a magnetic flux source. The guideway has one or more running surfaces that support the vehicles and along which they roll or slide.