Spherical Flux Concentrator Layout for Central Field Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic flux concentrators face challenges in efficiently concentrating flux to a small region while maximizing mounting space and minimizing repulsive forces within a spherical housing.
Innovation Solution
A configuration of two hemispherical housings with tapered cylindrical wound electromagnets mounted together to form a full spherical magnetic flux concentrator, optimizing flux concentration and space utilization, with the option of parallel or series connections for current control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If electromagnets are arranged on the inside surface of a spherical housing to concentrate flux, then magnetic flux density at the center is enhanced, but repulsive forces between adjacent like poles increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical housing is divided into multiple discrete electromagnet mounting locations on its inner surface. Each electromagnet is positioned to point toward the center, creating localized flux concentration zones that collectively enhance the central flux density while distributing repulsive forces across separate locations rather than concentrating them in one area.
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical housing configuration segments the electromagnet arrangement into multiple independent units distributed across the spherical surface. This segmentation allows each electromagnet to operate semi-independently, managing repulsive forces between adjacent like poles while maintaining overall flux concentration at the center through coordinated operation.
2Quantity of substance
If electromagnets are mounted on the inside of a spherical housing, then flux concentration is achieved, but mounting space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnets are arranged in a three-dimensional spherical configuration rather than a flat two-dimensional plane. By utilizing the inner surface of a sphere, the design maximizes the available mounting area for a given volume, allowing more electromagnets to be positioned with their poles pointing toward the center, thereby enhancing flux concentration while efficiently using the limited mounting space.
3Quantity of substance
If coils are connected in parallel to maximize current flow, then flux concentration improves, but control capability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into multiple independent circuits, with each electromagnet or group of electromagnets having its own control pathway. This segmentation allows flexible configuration where coils can be connected in parallel for maximum flux concentration or in series for enhanced control capability, providing operational versatility without sacrificing either flux density or control ability.
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
Enhances magnetic flux density at the center of the sphere, effectively managing repulsive forces and maximizing mounting space, suitable for applications like coil guns.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnets arranged on the inside surface of a spherical housing... electromagnets with tapered cylindrical windings mounted to the inside of the sphere... enhance the magnetic flux density at the center
Implementation Method 2
allow the magnetic flux to be concentrated to a small region, at the center of the spherical housing, amplifying the flux
Implementation Method 3
large repulsive forces are created during the firing of the electromagnets... managing repulsive forces
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a unique configuration of magnets or electromagnets arranged on the inside surface of a spherical housing. Using two hemispherical housings with attached electromagnets wound with tapered cylindrical windings mounted together to form a full spherically configured magnetic flux concentrator is presented with calculated flux lines. Tapered cylindrical wound electromagnets fulfill two needs, one is to help with the flux concentration and the other is to fit the coil on the inside of the spherical housing, maximizing mounting space and use of available volume. A coil gun is presented as a practical application using three concentrators ganged together.