Wearable Generator With Multi-Plane Coils and Suspended Magnet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable power generating devices face limitations in energy harvesting due to low power output from human motion, as they typically operate in a single dimension, restricting power generation and requiring frequent recharging, especially in environments where power sources are scarce.
Innovation Solution
A wearable generator system with multiple coils and a magnetically driven mechanism that allows the magnetic field to move across multiple planes, generating power from a variety of movements by using a flexible support line to suspend the magnet within a coil volume, maximizing power generation without frictional loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single coil and magnet system is used, then the device structure is simple, but power generation is limited to one dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a single coil-magnet system (one dimension) to multiple coil-magnet systems arranged in different spatial orientations (multiple dimensions). Specifically, coils are positioned at different angles and locations around the magnet, enabling the system to capture kinetic energy from movements in multiple directions simultaneously, thus resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and multi-directional adaptability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the magnet is fixed to a surface, then the structure is stable, but frictional loss reduces power generation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fixed mounting system with a magnetic field-based energy transduction system. Instead of mechanically coupling the magnet to a surface (which creates friction), the magnet is positioned to move freely within a defined space, and its kinetic energy is converted to electrical energy through electromagnetic induction as it passes through the coils. This substitution eliminates frictional losses while maintaining system stability through controlled magnetic interaction
3Productivity
If multiple coils in different planes are used, then power generation from diverse movements is maximized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple coil-magnet subsystems into an integrated power generation unit. Multiple coils are positioned in different planes and orientations around a single shared magnet, allowing them to function as a unified system rather than separate components. This merging approach maximizes power generation capability from diverse movements while minimizing the overall number of components compared to having multiple independent single-coil systems
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 effectively increases power generation capabilities by capturing energy from diverse movements, reducing the need for frequent recharging and providing a reliable, portable energy source for wearable electronics.
Implementation Method 1
Transduction of mechanical to electrical energy by mass-spring system can be electromagnetic (magnet moving relative to a coil)
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable generator system in one embodiment includes a plurality of coils, each of the plurality of coils extending within a respective one of a plurality of planes, a magnet for generating a magnetic field, and a support attached to a support anchor point and to the magnet, and suspending the magnet at a position whereat the magnet is not frictionally engaged with a fixed surface, the support having a length selected such that the magnetic field is movable across each of the plurality of coils.