SQUID Sensor 3D Configuration for Magnetic Interference Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The compact arrangement of SQUID magnetic sensors leads to interference between feedback magnetic fields and detection coils, particularly in high-temperature superconducting systems, which complicates the measurement of magnetic fields and reduces the efficiency of refrigerant utilization and increases the size of the apparatus.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic field measuring element comprising at least three SQUID magnetic sensors with detection coils and feedback coils arranged in a specific configuration where the centers of the detection coils are aligned in a straight line perpendicular to each other, reducing interference by positioning the feedback coils to minimize magnetic field overlap.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If SQUID magnetic sensors are arranged compactly to reduce apparatus size and improve refrigerant efficiency, then the apparatus becomes more portable and refrigerant is used more efficiently, but interference occurs between feedback magnetic fields and detection coils

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus sizeVSAvoidmagnetic field interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a planar arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration where detection coils are positioned at different heights (vertical stacking). The first detection coil is arranged in a first plane and the second detection coil is arranged in a second plane at a different height, allowing compact horizontal arrangement while maintaining vertical separation to reduce magnetic field interference between adjacent sensors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the magnetic sensing system into spatially separated segments - specifically separating detection coils and feedback coils into different vertical levels and planes. This segmentation allows each component to operate with reduced interference from adjacent components while maintaining compact overall dimensions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of stationary object

If feedback coils are positioned close to detection coils to reduce apparatus height, then the apparatus becomes more compact and portable, but magnetic field interference between feedback fields and detection coils increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapparatus heightVSAvoidmagnetic field interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension to separate feedback coils from detection coils. Instead of arranging them side-by-side in the same plane which would cause interference, the feedback coils are positioned in different vertical planes, creating spatial separation that reduces magnetic field coupling while maintaining compact horizontal footprint

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where feedback coils are positioned within the vertical space occupied by detection coils but at different heights and orientations. The feedback coil is arranged to be magnetically coupled to its associated detection coil while being spatially separated from other detection coils, effectively nesting multiple functional elements within a compact volume

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 allows for a lower height and reduced interference between SQUID magnetic sensors, enabling more efficient use of refrigerant and a more portable apparatus while maintaining accurate magnetic field measurement.

Implementation Method 1

SQUID (Superconducting QUantum Interference Device) magnetic sensors are magnetic sensors using superconductivity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuperconductivity: Superconductivity

Implementation Method 2

Each SQUID magnetic sensor 1 is structured by including either one or two Josephson junction portions 2 on a closed loop (superconducting loop) called a SQUID inductor 8

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJosephson effect: Josephson Effect

Implementation Method 3

a detection coil 3, which usually has a large magnetic flux capturing area, is connected to the SQUID inductor 8. Then, a magnetic flux interlinked with the detection coil 3 is conducted to the SQUID inductor 8

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux linkage: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

a feedback coil 6 and terminals 7... a feedback magnetic field that cancels the magnetic flux interlinked with the detection coil 3 is applied to the feedback coil 6

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS11137455B2Magnetic field measuring element, magnetic field measuring device, and magnetic field measuring system
Publication Date: 2021.10.05 MITSUI MINERAL DEV ENG
  • US11137455B2 patent drawing
  • US11137455B2 patent drawing
  • US11137455B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic field measuring element includes a Superconducting QUantum Interference Device magnetic sensors, the first sensor disposed either on a second plane perpendicular to a first plane including a coil surface of the third sensor and which includes the center of the third sensor, or in the vicinity of the second plane, and a second sensor disposed either on a third plane perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane, or in the vicinity of the third plane. The center of the first sensor is present either on a straight line which passes through the center of the third sensor and is perpendicular to the first plane, or in the vicinity of said straight line, and the center of the second sensor is present in a position displaced from a line joining the center of the third sensor and the center of the first sensor.