Switchable Magnet Assembly Using Movable Pole Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnet assemblies lack the ability to be switched on or off, limiting their versatility and efficiency in applications where magnetic attraction needs to be controlled.
Innovation Solution
A magnet assembly with stationary first magnets and movable second magnets, where the alignment of poles can be switched between opposing poles to control magnetic flux flow through ferrous members, allowing for an on-off functionality using gears, springs, and rotational or linear movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnets are always on, then magnetic attraction is continuously available, but the ability to control when magnetic attraction occurs is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the second magnets movable rather than stationary. The second magnets can be positioned in different locations (first position for on-state, second position for off-state) to dynamically change the magnetic flux flow path. This allows the magnet assembly to switch between attracting and not attracting ferrous materials, providing controllability while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If second magnets are made movable to enable switching, then on-off control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by using magnetic attraction forces themselves to move the second magnets into position. When ferrous materials are present, the magnetic field automatically attracts the second magnets to the first position, enabling the on-state without requiring external actuators. This self-actuating mechanism reduces device complexity while maintaining switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ferrous materials as an intermediary element that mediates between the magnetic field and the movement of second magnets. The ferrous materials serve as a bridge that converts magnetic field energy into mechanical movement of the second magnets, enabling switching functionality without complex mechanical actuators or external control systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple magnets with alternating poles are used, then magnetic flux control is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the magnet assembly into multiple discrete magnets with alternating poles (first magnets and second magnets). Each magnet can be manufactured separately with standard pole configurations, then assembled in a specific pattern. This segmentation allows for precise pole alignment through modular assembly rather than requiring complex monolithic magnet manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the second magnets to serve multiple functions: they act as magnetic poles for flux control, as movable elements for switching, and as position indicators for on/off states. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining precise pole alignment control.
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 controlled magnetic attraction and repulsion, allowing the assembly to be effectively switched between on and off positions, enhancing its applicability in various situations by managing magnetic flux flow efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
a majority (e.g., more than 50%) of the flux from the pole of the magnet flows through such member
Implementation Method 2
The assembly has a plurality of first and second magnets... each of the first magnets may define first and second opposite poles... each of the second magnets may define first and second opposite poles
Implementation Method 3
The plurality of first ferrous members may be mounted to the housing... The plurality of second ferrous members may be mounted to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An on-off switchable magnet assembly is disclosed which has first and second magnets. The poles of the first magnet are aligned to first and second ferrous members. The second magnets move to align its poles to the first and second ferrous members so that flux from the same or different pole flows through the first and second members to switch the assembly on or off as a magnet assembly.