Soft Magnetic Core Electromagnets for Non-Linear Magnetic Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic manipulation systems are limited by their ability to induce only small forces and moments due to operating in the linear regime of soft magnetic cores, which restricts their application in scenarios requiring higher forces and moments, such as interacting with surfaces in high-viscosity fluids or tissues, and they often conflict with imaging systems due to space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic manipulation and navigation system using at least six electromagnets with soft-magnetic cores, allowing operation in both open-loop linear and closed-loop nonlinear regimes, with magnetic field sensors providing feedback for accurate control and prediction of magnetic fields, enabling higher forces and moments without compromising response time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If electromagnets are operated in the linear regime of soft magnetic cores, then precise control of magnetic field is achieved, but the induced forces and moments remain small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by measuring the actual magnetic field with sensors and comparing it to the desired field, then adjusting the coil currents accordingly. This enables operation in the non-linear regime while maintaining control precision, as the feedback compensates for the non-linearities and saturation effects that would otherwise degrade control accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the electromagnets by allowing operation in the non-linear regime of the soft magnetic cores, where higher currents produce higher field strengths and consequently higher forces and moments. The feedback control system adapts to these parameter changes to maintain precision.
2Force
If electromagnets are operated in the non-linear regime for higher forces, then response time degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system continuously monitors the magnetic field and adjusts currents in real-time, enabling the system to operate in the non-linear regime for higher forces while maintaining fast response times. The feedback loop compensates for the slower dynamics of non-linear operation by making real-time corrections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control by allowing the system to adapt its operating point in real-time based on feedback measurements. The control system can dynamically switch between linear and non-linear operating regimes depending on the required force level and response time requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If six electromagnets are used for magnetic manipulation, then control capability is improved, but space requirements conflict with imaging systems
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system enables precise control of the magnetic field with fewer electromagnets by compensating for field inhomogeneities and optimizing the use of available magnetic field space. This reduces the number of electromagnets needed while maintaining control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the spatial parameters and operating parameters of the electromagnet system to achieve effective control with a reduced number of magnets. By operating in the non-linear regime and using feedback control, the system achieves enhanced control capability with fewer physical components, reducing space requirements for imaging compatibility.
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 achieves significantly higher forces and moments, allowing precise control and manipulation of magnetic elements within complex environments, including tissues and fluids, while maintaining fast response times and compatibility with imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic manipulation and navigation system for moving a magnetic element through a body comprising at least six electromagnets with soft-magnetic cores
Implementation Method 2
allowing for an operation in two separate modes, a first open-loop mode operation in the linear regime and a second closed-loop operation in the non-linear regime for higher field strengths
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic manipulation and navigation system for moving a magnetic element through a body comprising at least six electromagnets with soft-magnetic cores arranged in a predetermined position to the body. One or more of the electromagnets operate in the non-linear regime of the magnetization curve of the cores. At least one magnetic field sensor is at one or more predetermined positions outside of the operating region. In the linear region, no feedback is required to set the magnetic field strength. In the non-linear region, feedback from the magnetic field sensors is used for closed-loop control. The system has an open loop mode operation in the linear regime for fast control signals, for stabilization during displacement of the magnetic element, and a closed-loop operation in the non-linear regime for higher field strengths, to apply forces and moments on the magnetic element while it is in contact with a surface.