Patent Application
20250132079
This disclosure is directed to magnetic assemblies, and, more specifically, to magnetic assemblies comprising unequally sized permanent magnet pairs or electromagnet pairs exhibiting unique behaviors of like poles or unlike poles.
A basic law of magnetism is that like poles repel one another, and unlike poles attract each other. Even though Gauss' law for magnetic flux density (B-field) indicates that there is no free magnetic charge, the effective bound magnetic charges can be defined locally from the magnetization of magnetic material. The distribution of positive magnetic charge can be defined as the “north pole”, and correspondingly, the negative magnetic charge can be defined as the “south pole”. The interaction between the local magnetic charges is governed by Coulomb's law so that like charges (e.g., north-north or south-south pole pairs) repel and unlike charges (e.g., north-south pole pairs) attract.
In one aspect, a vibrating magnetic assembly includes a housing, a first magnet positioned within the housing, the first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, a second magnet positioned within the housing and spaced from the first magnet, the second magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, where the second magnet is oriented such that the N pole of the first magnet faces the S pole of the second magnet, and a third magnet positioned within the housing between the first and second magnets. The third magnet has a third permeance coefficient (Pc3) and comprises an N pole and an S pole. The third magnet is reciprocable between the first and second magnets to cause vibration and is oriented such that the N pole of the third magnet faces the N pole of the first magnet. A ratio of Pc3:Pc1 is greater than 1 and a ratio of Pc3:Pc2 is greater than 1 such that the N pole of the third magnet is magnetically attracted to the N pole of the first magnet when positioned within a threshold distance of the first magnet, and the S pole of the third magnet is magnetically attracted to the S pole of the second magnet when positioned within a threshold distance of the second magnet.
In another aspect, an electric generator includes a housing, a first magnet positioned within the housing, the first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, a second magnet positioned within the housing, the second magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, where the second magnet is moveable within the housing relative to the first magnet and oriented such that like poles of the first magnet and the second magnet face one another, and an electrically conductive coil extending around a path of motion traversed by the second magnet when the second magnet is moved relative to the first magnet, where the second magnet generates an electrical current through the electrically conductive coil when the second magnet is moved relative to the first magnet. A ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1 such that the like poles of the first magnet and second magnet are magnetically attracted to one another when the second magnet is positioned within a threshold distance of the first magnet.
In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a vibrating magnetic assembly includes positioning a first magnet within a housing, the first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, positioning a second magnet within the housing such that the second magnet is spaced from the first magnet, the second magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, where the second magnet is oriented such that the N pole of the first magnet faces the S pole of the second magnet, providing a third magnet having a third permeance coefficient (Pc3) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, wherein a ratio of Pc3:Pc1 is greater than 1 and a ratio of Pc3:Pc2 is greater than 1, and positioning the third magnet within the housing adjacent the first magnet such that the N pole of the third magnet faces the N pole of the first magnet and the N poles of the first magnet and the third magnet are magnetically attracted to one another, where the third magnet is reciprocable between the first magnet and the second magnet to cause vibration.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes a first plate comprising at least one tapered magnet having a base secured to the first plate and extending outward from the first plate to a tip, the at least one tapered magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, and a second plate comprising at least one ring magnet defining an opening sized and shaped to receive the tip of the at least one tapered magnet therein, the at least one ring magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole. The at least one tapered magnet and the at least one ring magnet are oriented with like poles facing one another. A ratio of Pc1:Pc2 is greater than 1 such that, when the tip of the at least one tapered magnet is inserted into the opening of the at least one ring magnet beyond a threshold depth, a magnetic repulsive force between the at least one ring magnet and the at least one tapered magnet transitions to a magnetic attractive force to releasably secure the second plate to the first plate.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes at least one tapered magnet having a base and extending to a tip, the at least one tapered magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, and at least one ring magnet having an opening sized and shaped to receive the tip of the at least one tapered magnet therein, the at least one ring magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole. The at least one tapered magnet and the at least one ring magnet are oriented with like poles facing one another. A ratio of Pc1:Pc2 is greater than 1 such that, when the tip of the at least one tapered magnet is inserted into the opening of the at least one ring magnet beyond a threshold depth, a magnetic repulsive force between the at least one ring magnet and the at least one tapered magnet transitions to a magnetic attractive force to releasably secure the at least one ring magnet to the at least one tapered magnet.
In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a magnetic assembly includes providing a first plate comprising at least one tapered magnet having a base secured to the first plate and extending outward from the first plate to a tip, the at least one tapered magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, and securing a second plate to the first plate, the second plate comprising at least one ring magnet defining an opening sized and shaped to receive the tip of the at least one tapered magnet therein, the at least one ring magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole. The at least one tapered magnet and the at least one ring magnet are oriented with like poles facing one another, and a ratio of Pc1:Pc2 is greater than 1. Securing the second plate to the first plate comprises inserting the tip of the at least one tapered magnet into the opening of the at least one ring magnet beyond a threshold depth such that a magnetic repulsive force between the at least one ring magnet and the at least one tapered magnet transitions to a magnetic attractive force to releasably secure the second plate to the first plate.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes a first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, where the first magnet includes a center axis, and a moveable magnetic body comprising a second magnet moveable relative to the first magnet, the moveable magnetic body having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole. The first magnet and the moveable magnetic body are oriented with like poles facing one another, and a ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1. The moveable magnetic body is moveable between a first position, in which the second magnet is located adjacent the first magnet and the second magnet is axially aligned with the center axis of the first magnet such that the second magnet is magnetically attracted to the first magnet, and a second position, in which the second magnet is axially offset from the center axis of the first magnet such that the first magnet magnetically repels the second magnet.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes a housing extending from a first end to a second end, a first magnet positioned within the housing, the first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, wherein the first magnet includes a center axis, a moveable magnetic body positioned within the housing between the first magnet and the second end and moveable relative to the first magnet, the moveable magnetic body comprising a second magnet, wherein the moveable magnetic body has a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprises an N pole and an S pole, the moveable magnetic body oriented such that like poles of the first magnet and the moveable magnetic body face one another, and a guide positioned within the housing and extending longitudinally from the first magnet to the second end, the guide defining a first channel aligned with the center axis of the first magnet and a second channel that is axially offset from the center axis, where the first channel and the second channel are sized and shaped to allow the moveable magnetic body to move therethrough. A ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1 such that the like poles of the first magnet and the moveable magnetic body are magnetically attracted to one another when the second magnet is positioned within a threshold distance of the first magnet.
In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a magnetic assembly includes providing a first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, where the first magnet includes a center axis, providing a moveable magnetic body including a second magnet, the moveable magnetic body having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and including an N pole and an S pole, where a ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1, and positioning the moveable magnetic body at a first position adjacent the first magnet such that like poles of the first magnet and the moveable magnetic body face each other and the second magnet is axially aligned with the center axis of the first magnet such that the second magnet is magnetically attracted to the first magnet. The moveable magnetic body is moveable relative to the first magnet from the first position to a second position in which the second magnet is axially offset from the center axis of the first magnet such that the first magnet magnetically repels the second magnet.
In yet another aspect, a container assembly includes a container extending from a first end to a second end, the container defining an opening at the first end and comprising a first set of magnets spaced circumferentially about the opening, each magnet of the first set having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, and a cap comprising a second set of magnets spaced circumferentially about a central axis of the cap, each magnet of the second set of magnets having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, where a ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1. The cap is releasably couplable to the container via magnetic interaction between the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets, where each magnet of the second set is axially aligned with a respective magnet of the first set to form a pair of aligned magnets when the cap is releasably coupled to the container. For each pair of aligned magnets, the magnet of the first set and the magnet of the second set are oriented with like poles facing one another.
In yet another aspect, a container assembly includes a container extending from a first end to a second end, the container defining an opening at the first end and comprising at least one first magnet positioned adjacent the opening, the at least one first magnet having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, and a cap comprising at least one second magnet having a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and comprising an N pole and an S pole, where a ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1. The at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet of the second set are oriented with like poles facing one another. The cap is rotatable relative to the container between a first position, in which the at least one second magnet is axially aligned with and magnetically attracted to the at least one first magnet to secure the cap to the container, and a second position, in which the at least one second magnet is axially offset from and magnetically repels the at least one first magnet to release the cap from the container.
In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a container assembly includes coupling a first set of magnets to a container, the container extending from a first end to a second end and defining an opening at the first end, where the magnets of the first set of magnets are spaced circumferentially about the opening, each magnet of the first set of magnets having a first permeance coefficient (Pc1) and including a magnetic north (N) pole and a magnetic south (S) pole, coupling a second set of magnets to a cap such that the magnets of the second set are spaced circumferentially about a central axis of the cap, where each magnet of the second set of magnets has a second permeance coefficient (Pc2) and includes an N pole and an S pole, where a ratio of Pc2:Pc1 is greater than 1, and releasably coupling the cap to the container via magnetic interaction between the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets by axially aligning each magnet of the second set of magnets with a respective magnet of the first set to form a pair of aligned magnets where, for each pair of aligned magnets, the magnet of the first set and the magnet of the second set are oriented with like poles facing one another.
In yet another aspect, a method includes positioning a first magnetic patterner relative to a second magnetic patterner to define a space therebetween, where the first magnetic patterner includes a first non-magnetic holder and at least one first magnet supported by the first holder and the second magnetic patterner includes a second non-magnetic holder and at least one second magnet supported by the second holder. The at least one first magnet extends longitudinally from a first end including a magnetic north (N) pole to a second end including a magnetic south (S) pole, and the at least one second magnet extends longitudinally from a first end including an N pole to a second end including an S pole. The first magnetic patterner and the second magnetic patterner are positioned with the N pole of the at least one first magnet oriented facing the S pole of the at least one second magnet. The method further includes positioning a third magnet within the space between the first magnetic patterner and the second magnetic patterner, where the third magnet extends from a first surface including an N pole to a second surface including an S pole, and the third magnet is oriented with the N pole of the third magnet facing the N pole of the at least one first magnet and the S pole of the third magnet facing the S pole of the at least one second magnet. The method further includes creating a localized area of reversed magnetic polarity on the third magnet by positioning the first magnetic patterner adjacent the first surface of the third magnet and the second magnetic patterner adjacent the second surface of the third magnet such that the at least one first magnet is axially aligned with the at least one second magnet.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes a first magnetic patterner comprising a first non-magnetic holder and at least one first magnet supported by the first holder, the at least one first magnet extending longitudinally from a first end comprising a magnetic north (N) pole to a second end comprising a magnetic south (S) pole, a second magnetic patterner spaced from the first magnetic patterner and comprising a second non-magnetic holder and at least one second magnet supported by the second holder, the at least one second magnet extending longitudinally from a first end comprising an N pole to a second end comprising an S pole, where the first magnetic patterner and the second magnetic patterner are positioned with the N pole of the at least one first magnet oriented facing the S pole of the at least one second magnet, and a support plate positioned between the first patterner and the second patterner and adapted to receive a third magnet thereon. The at least one first magnet is axially aligned with the at least one second magnet and at least one of the first magnetic patterner and the second magnetic patterner is moveable towards the support plate such that, when the first and second magnetic patterners are positioned adjacent the support plate, the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet create a localized area of reversed magnetic polarity on the third magnet positioned on the support plate.
In yet another aspect, a magnetic assembly includes a first set of magnets, each magnet of the first set extending longitudinally from a first end comprising a magnetic north (N) pole and a second end comprising a magnetic south (S) pole, a second set of magnets spaced from the first set of magnets, each magnet of the second set extending longitudinally from a first end comprising an N pole and a second end comprising an S pole, where each magnet of the first set is axially aligned with one of the magnets of the second set and where the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets are oriented such that, for each pair of aligned magnets, the N pole of the magnet of the first set faces the S pole of the magnet of the second set, and a support plate positioned between the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets and adapted to receive a third magnet thereon. At least one of the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets is moveable towards the support plate such that, when the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets are positioned adjacent the support plate, the first set of magnets and the second set of magnets create a multipole-pattern on the third magnet by creating a plurality of localized areas of reversed magnetic polarity on the third magnet.
Various refinements exist of the features noted in relation to the above-mentioned aspects. Further features may also be incorporated in the above-mentioned aspects as well. These refinements and additional features may exist individually or in any combination. For instance, various features discussed below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments may be incorporated into any of the above-described aspects, alone or in any combination.
It has been observed that two like poles can attract each other near the central area for a pair of permanent magnets with significantly different dimensions. To explain this phenomenon, and the underlying physics governed by the fundamental laws of magnetism, a series of experiments were conducted and reported in Revealing the mystery of the cases where Nd-Fe-B magnetic like poles attract each other, H. Meng et al., Scientific Reports, (2021) 11:12555, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The investigation identifies that for two unequally sized magnets, the north (N) or south (S) pole of the magnet with a higher permeance coefficient (Pc) causes localized demagnetization (LD) to the like pole (i.e., the like N pole or the like S pole) of the magnet with a lower Pc. The permeance coefficient (Pc) is defined as the ratio of magnetic induction or magnetic flux density Bd and magnetic field strength Hd inside a standalone magnet at the working point or operating point of the B-H curve, i.e., Pc=|Bd/Hd|, which depends on the geometry of the magnet. For example, in the case of cylindrical magnets with the same diameter and same magnetization along the axis, the longer the magnet is, the higher the Pc will be. Combined with the B-H curves, the Pc can determine how easily a magnet will be demagnetized, especially when the B-H curve in the 2nd quadrant is nonlinear. It has been found that the Pc and B-H curves are key factors to explain the LD phenomena.
If the LD is large enough, the polarity of the like pole of the lower Pc magnet at a localized area can be reversed when the spacing or gap between the two unequally sized magnets is sufficiently small. The reversed polarity results in a magnetic attraction between the two like poles of the magnets in the LD area. Consequently, two unusual behaviors are observed: 1) A turning point TP appears on the force v. gap curves of like poles of the unequally sized magnets since they have a different Pc (also referenced herein as the “turning point (TP) rule”). Normally, the like poles' repelling force increases when the gap between the two magnets decreases, but this TP results in nonmonotonic curves, even an attractive force at a small gap between the two unequally sized magnets; 2) For some Nd—Fe—B magnets with a low coercivity and nonlinear B-H curve in the 2nd quadrant, a repulsion can occur for the unlike poles (e.g., N pole and S pole) of the unequally sized magnets after previously pairing with their like poles that left an unrecoverable LD and a reversed polarity area. The relationship of the LD, the Pc ratio, and the B-H curve are discussed in more detail herein. It should be noted that, in the paper of H. Meng et al., incorporated by reference herein, the turning point or TP was termed the “Inflection Point” or IP. In this disclosure, the IP as used in that paper is termed the turning point or TP.
Further disclosed herein are devices and magnetic assemblies with magnetic components implementing the localized demagnetization (LD) phenomena and the turning point (TP) rule, which can make like poles of the magnetic components attract each other and unlike poles repel one another. The turning point (TP) is the extremum point on the curve of the force between the like N poles or S poles of the unequally sized magnets v. the gap between the like magnet poles, corresponding to the change of sign of the first derivative of the force v. gap curve. The LD is the cause of these unusual behaviors.
The demagnetizing field of a stand-alone magnet is determined by its geometry. For equally sized magnet pairs, like poles are repulsive and unlike poles are attractive. However, for those unequally sized magnet pairs, the forces can be manipulated by adjusting the relative dimensions of the pair, as well as the air gap between the pair, leading to unusual behaviors of like poles' attraction and unlike poles' repulsion. When the LD is large enough, the polarity of a localized region at the center of the magnet with a lower Pc can be temporarily or permanently reversed, leading to like poles attracting and unlike poles repelling at a small gap between the two unequally sized magnets. The magnets' Pc values and their linearity of the B-H curve affect the LD level and also the LD's recoverability. The LD can be fully recovered after taking the magnet pair apart, for the magnets with linear B-H curve in 2nd and partial of 3rd quadrant, as discussed in more detail herein. For magnets with a non-linear B-H curve in 2nd and partial of 3rd quadrant, the LD would not be fully recovered after taking the pair apart.
Embodiments disclosed herein include unequally sized permanent magnet pairs, and/or electromagnets with unequally sized coils, paired together by the like north poles (N→←N pairing), paired together by the like south poles (S→←S pairing), or paired together by unlike poles (N→S pairing or S→N pairing). In these embodiments, the pair of permanent magnets or electromagnets have a different permeance coefficient Pc, which causes a distinctive action based on the LD phenomenon and the TP rule. In some embodiments, a device or magnetic assembly includes movable parts that may have special functions based on the LD phenomenon and the TP rule including, for example and without limitation, locking, switching, vibrating, propelling, and combinations thereof. The principle of the actions is different compared to those equally sized magnetic pairs. The LD and TP make the like poles of the unequally sized magnet pairs attract each other when the magnets are axially aligned and the unequally sized magnets are spaced at a sufficiently small gap or distance. When an external force is applied that slides one magnet relative to the other (e.g., outside the LD area or out of axial alignment), the like poles repel one another and the repelling force causes one magnet to move away from the other magnet. This principle can be used to propel, launch, or otherwise move one of the magnets (e.g., the smaller of the two magnets). The TP also leads the magnet poles to have a uniform force at the distance near the TP gap, which provides consistent performance for the devices. In one embodiment, the magnets with different Pc values can cause enough LD to build novel devices and systems, such as an in-situ magnetic patterner assembly that produces a multipole-patterned magnet without an external power source.
Described herein are devices and magnetic assemblies where the functions of locking, switching, vibration, and propelling can be realized by utilizing the temporary LD, as well as devices and magnetic assemblies implementing the TP rule. As discussed above, the TP is the turning point on the force v. gap curve, and it corresponds to a minimal variation of the force relative to the distance. By providing a magnetic device or assembly to operate near the TP point, a more stable performance than the devices made of equally sized magnet pairs can be achieved. The permanent LD may also be used to build some example devices and magnetic assemblies, such as an in-situ magnetic patterner assembly without external power sources.
With reference to
Table 1 below provides a summary of the physical dimensions of the magnets used in each pairing, where OD is the outer diameter (in mm) of the magnet, and L is the length (in mm) of the magnet relative to the magnetization direction of the magnet. The length L is also referred to herein as the thickness of the magnet. The permeance coefficient Pc is also provided for each magnet. Each magnet used had a cylindrical shape, and the Pc values ranged from 0.13 to 24. As shown, the Pc is correlated with the ratio OD:L, where the Pc increases as the ratio OD:L decreases. In other words, at a fixed L, a magnet with a larger OD has a lower Pc, and at a fixed OD, a magnet with a larger L has a higher Pc.
indicates data missing or illegible when filed
In addition to the force test, some of the magnets with OD=32 mm were also tested for flux density on the surface to estimate the level of the localized demagnetization LD using a Brockhaus XYZ Scanner.
In
In
In
Table 2 below summarizes the results discussed above for the magnet pairs from Table 1. For each pair of N55 magnets, N48SH magnets, and SmCo30 magnets, the force difference ΔF2 is calculated as ΔF2=|(F2@d<0.5−F2@TP)/F2@TP|.
With reference to
As discussed herein, the LD level is related to the Pc ratio, and it is also linked to the linearity of the B-H curves in the 2nd and part of the 3rd quadrant. Referring to
The concepts used in this analysis have previously been reported, for example, in B. D. Cullity et al., Introduction to Magnetic Materials, 2nd Edition, IEEE Press, ISBN 978-0-47147741-9, pp. 478-484; Rollin J. Parker, Advances in permanent magnetism, ISBN 0-471-82293-0, 1990, pp. 22-25, pp. 149-154; Peter Campbell, Permanent magnet materials and their application, ISBN 0-521-24996-1, 1994, pp. 88-97; and D. Egorov et al., “Linear recoil curve demagnetization models for ferrite magnets in rotating machinery”, FIG. 4, DOI: 10.1109/IECON.2017.8216344, IECON 2017—43rd Conference of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. From the foregoing, it can be observed that the linearity of the B-H curve and the magnet's load line or permeance coefficient play important roles in the LD level and recoverability after the magnet separates from the N→←N pairing.
As described above, localized demagnetization (LD) is identified for pairs of unequally sized magnets when paired by their like poles (e.g., N→<N paired) as their Pc values are different, in which the pole of the magnet with a higher Pc causes a LD to the pole of the magnet with a lower Pc. If the LD is large enough, the polarity of the localized area can be reversed, resulting in an attraction between two like poles in the LD area at a small gap between the pair of magnets. Two unusual behaviors are observed in this investigation. First, a turning point, TP, appears on the curves of the force v. gap for the like poles of the unequally sized magnets. The TP results in nonmonotonic curves, even an attraction for some like poles. Second, for some Nd—Fe—B magnets with a low coercivity and nonlinear B-H curve in the 2nd quadrant, a repulsion can occur between the unlike poles of a pair of unequally sized magnets after having been previously paired with their like poles that left an unrecoverable LD and reversed polarity area. The unusual behaviors are not contradictory to the basic law of magnetism, and they are caused by the localized demagnetization LD, as the localized attracting area corresponds to unlike poles resulting from LD. A higher Pc ratio results in a greater LD; the linearity of the B-H curves and the load line or permeance coefficient also play important roles in the LD level. The LD level can be visualized and determined by mapping the surface flux.
The linearity of the B-H curve and the magnet's load line or permeance coefficient play important roles in the LD level and its recoverability after the magnet separates from the N→←N (or S→←S) pairing. For N55 magnets that have a nonlinear B-H curve in the 2nd quadrant, especially for N55 magnets with a small length L or thickness, the LD is mostly unrecoverable. Similar to N55 magnets, Alnico magnets may also show the same unusual phenomena. For N48SH magnets and SmCo30 magnets that have linear B-H curves in the 2nd quadrant and part of the 3rd quadrant, the LD is mostly recoverable after the pair is separated after having been paired by their like poles. If pairs of SmCo30 magnets or N48SH magnets have a proper Pc ratio, the like poles can also appear to attract each other. Since the LD is recoverable, some novel applications may be developed for utilizing these newly discovered unique characteristics, examples of which will become more apparent by reference to the embodiments described in more detail below.
With reference to
The stationary magnets 102 and 104 are spaced apart by a distance G1. The distance G1 can be any suitable distance that enables the magnetic assembly 100 to function as described herein. In some embodiments, the distance G1 is in the range of about 5 mm to about 200 mm. The term “stationary” used to describe the magnets 102 and 104 means that the magnets 102 and 104 are translationally fixed in terms of spatial relation to one another, such that the distance G1 remains substantially unchanged during operation of the magnetic assembly. It should be appreciated, however, that some movement of the magnets 102 and 104 relative to one another, as well as rotational movement of the magnets 102 and 104, may occur during operation of the magnetic assembly without departing from the scope of this embodiment.
The moveable magnet 106 is reciprocable between the stationary magnet 102 and the stationary magnet 104 to cause vibration of the magnetic assembly 100. More specifically, the moveable magnet 106 reciprocates between a position where the N side of the moveable magnet 106 is positioned adjacent to the N side of the magnet 104, and a position where the S side of the moveable magnet 106 is positioned adjacent to the S side of the magnet 102. As such, the moveable magnet 106 traverses the distance G1 as the moveable magnet 106 reciprocates between the stationary magnets 102 and 104.
The magnets 102, 104 and 106 are suitably sized and shaped to use the LD phenomena and TP rule, as described in detail herein, to alternate the attraction and repulsion between the movable magnet 106 and each of the stationary magnets 102 and 104. The geometry (e.g., outer diameter and length or thickness) of the magnets 102, 104 and 106, and the type of magnets used, are such that, for the alternating pairings between like poles of the moveable magnet 106 and each of the stationary magnets 102 and 104, an attracting force is created when the center of moveable magnet 106 is axially aligned with the center of the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104 and the moveable magnet 106 is within a threshold distance from the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104. The threshold distance corresponds to the point on the force F2 v. gap curve of the moveable magnet 106 and the stationary magnet 102 or 104 pairing at which the repulsive force between the magnets 102 and 106 or 104 and 106 transitions to an attractive force due to the LD phenomena and the TP rule, as described in detail herein. In this regard, the threshold distance may vary based on the geometry and type of magnets used. In some examples, the threshold distance may be less than about 2 mm. Moreover, the geometry of the magnets 102, 104, and 106, and the type of magnets used, may vary based on design requirements to any geometry or type of magnet that enables the magnet assembly 100 to function as described herein. For example, the magnets 102, 104, and 106 may be any type of magnet that facilitates a magnetic attractive force between the moveable magnet 106 and the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104 when the magnets 102 and 106 or the magnets 104 and 106 are like-pole paired and brought within a threshold distance of each other while axially aligned. In some examples, each of the magnets 102, 104, and 106 is an Nd—Fe—B magnet.
In the example embodiment, each of the magnets 102, 104, and 106 is a cylindrically-shaped magnet (i.e., the magnets 102, 104, and 106 are disc magnets). As shown in
The magnets 102, 104, and 106 may have any suitable outer diameter and thickness that enable the magnetic assembly 100 to function as described herein. As described above, for example, the geometry of magnets 102, 104, and 106 are suitably selected, in combination with the type of magnet, to induce localized demagnetization and the turning point phenomenon when the moveable magnet 106 is oriented in a like pole orientation and axially aligned with and positioned within a threshold distance of one of stationary magnets 102 or 104. In some embodiments, the moveable magnet 106 may have an outer diameter in the range of about 2 mm to about 100 mm and a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 20 mm. In some examples, the outer diameter of the moveable magnet 106 is in the range of about 3 mm to about 10 mm and the thickness of the moveable magnet 106 is in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 5 mm. In some embodiments, the stationary magnets 102 and 104 may each have an outer diameter in the range of about 8 mm to about 250 mm and a thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm. In some examples, the stationary magnets 102 and 104 each have an outer diameter in the range of about 8 mm to about 20 mm and a thickness in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 10 mm. In some examples, the stationary magnets 102 and 104 suitably have the same geometry (i.e., the same outer diameter and/or thickness).
The geometries are such that each of the magnets 102, 104, and 106 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,102, Pc,104, and Pc,106, respectively, to induce localized demagnetization and like-pole attraction. That is, the moveable magnet 106 is unequally sized with each of the stationary magnets 102 and 104 such that Pc,106 is greater than each of Pc,102 and Pc,104 to achieve ratios Pc,106/Pc,102 and Pc,106/Pc,104 greater than 1 and, more suitably, greater than 2. For example, in some embodiments, each of the ratios Pc,106/Pc,102 and Pc,106/Pc,104 is suitably in the range of 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200. In some embodiments, the stationary magnets 102 and 104 have the same permeance coefficient Pc,102=Pc,104, such that Pc,106/Pc,102=Pc,106/Pc,104. Permeance coefficient ratios Pc1/Pc2 may also be represented as Pc1:Pc2. An LD effect based on the Pc ratios (Pc,106:Pc,102 and Pc,106:Pc,104) of the respective magnet pairings 102 and 106 and 104 and 106 is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of each of these pairings when the magnets 102 and 106 or 104 and 106 are axially aligned (i.e., are aligned along their respective center axes) and brought to within a threshold distance of each other. Moreover, the LD effect based on the Pc ratios is such that, when axially aligned and brought within the threshold distance, the force between the like poles (i.e., N—N or S—S) of the magnets 102 and 106 or 104 and 106 transitions from magnetic repulsion to magnetic attraction. Accordingly, when the moveable magnet 106 is in axial alignment with the stationary magnet 102 or 104 and the located within the threshold distance from magnet 102 or 104, the moveable magnet 106 is held in position relative to the stationary magnet 102 or 104 by a magnetic attractive force. When the moveable magnet 106 is brought out of axial alignment with the stationary magnet 102 or 104, that is, when the center axes are no longer aligned, the like poles repel one another. This is because the LD phenomena occurs at a localized area in the center of the like pole side of the magnet that has the lower Pc, that is, the stationary magnets 102 and 104. As such, the moveable magnet 106 may be propelled away from the respective stationary magnet 102 or 104 due to the repulsion between the like N—N poles or like S—S poles outside of the localized area at which the LD phenomena occurs. The geometry of the magnets 102, 104, and 106 may be suitably selected such that, when the moveable magnet 106 is brought out of axial alignment with the stationary magnet 102 or 104, the repulsive force between the like poles is great enough to cause the moveable magnet 106 to accelerate from one of the stationary magnets 102 or 104 toward the other one of the stationary magnets 102 or 104 and strike the other stationary magnet with sufficient force to cause vibration of the magnetic assembly 100.
The moveable magnet 106 can be moved out of axial alignment with the stationary magnet 102 or 104 via the actuators 108 or 110, respectively. In the example embodiment, the actuators 108 and 110 are embodied as spring clips 108 and 110, although other embodiments may include actuators other than spring clips. The spring clips 108 and 110 are coupled to the stationary magnets 102 and 104, respectively (e.g., directly, or indirectly, for example, by holders 112 and 114). In the example embodiment, the spring clip 108 is positioned adjacent to the S side, and coupled to the back surface 105a, of the stationary magnet 102, and the spring clip 110 is positioned adjacent to the N side, and coupled to the front surface 103b, of the stationary magnet 104. As shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In this configuration, movement of the moveable magnet 106 away from the center of one of the stationary magnets 102 and 104 allows the moveable magnet 106 to be axially aligned with the other one of the stationary magnets 102 and 104. In
With reference to
As shown in
The housing 128 is suitably sized and shaped to enable the stationary magnets 102 and 104 to be positioned as described above. In the example embodiment, the body 138 of the housing 128 has a pseudo-cylindrical shape with an oval or oblong cross-section (shown in
The pins 130 and 132 each extend through a hole (not shown) on a side of the body 138 of the housing 128, and are configured to contact the flat springs 116 and 118, respectively. The pins 130 and 132 are cylindrically shaped, and are suitably dimensioned, for example, with a length extending through the housing 128 a suitable distance to contact the side of the respective flat spring 116 and 118. In some embodiments, each pin 130 and 132 has a length of at least about 4 mm, and an outer diameter in the range of about 1 mm to about 2 mm. Suitably, each pin 130 and 132 is configured to contact the side of the respective flat spring 116 and 118 that the moveable magnet 106 is positioned near to or in contact with when the moveable magnet 106 is received by the flat spring 116 and 118, as described above. In this configuration, the pins 130 and 132 are located on opposite sides of the housing 128. The pins 130 and 132 may be biased by a user or by an external actuator (not shown) to cause the respective flat spring 116 and 118 to deflect radially inward to cause the moveable magnet 106 to move out of axial alignment with the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104. In this regard, the pins 130 and 132 may be utilized to initiate operation of the magnetic assembly 100. Additionally, the pins 130 and 132 may be used to cease operation (i.e., vibration) of the magnetic assembly 100, for example, by selectively preventing the respective flat spring 116 and 118 from deflecting when the moveable magnet 106 strikes the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104. In some embodiments, the flat springs 116 and 118 may not sufficiently deflect when the moveable magnet 106 strikes the respective stationary magnet 102 and 104, and the pins 130 and 132 are utilized to initiate each stroke of the moveable magnet 106 between the stationary magnets 102 and 104.
The magnetic assembly 100 described above and illustrated in
With reference to
The electric generator device 200 also includes an electrically conductive coil 202 positioned between stationary magnets 102 and 104. The coil 202 may be made of any conductive material, including, for example and without limitation, copper, aluminum, and combinations thereof. The coil 202 extends around a path of motion traversed by the moveable magnet 106 when the moveable magnet 106 reciprocates between the stationary magnets 102 and 104. The coil 202 may have any shape known in the art (e.g., coil, spiral, helix) that enables the moveable magnet 106 to reciprocate through the coil 202. The coil has an inner height H2 and an inner width W2, which are suitably sized to provide clearance as the moveable magnet 106 reciprocates through the coil 202. The height H2 and width W2 can be selected based on the outer diameter of the moveable magnet 106. In some embodiments, for example, the height H2 and width W2 may each be in the range of about 10 mm to about 40 mm. In one example, the coil 202 has a square cross-section such that the height H2 and width W2 are the same size. In embodiments where the coil has a circular cross-section, the inner diameter may be within the same size range as the height H2 and width W2. The coil 202 extends a length L2 from a first end 204 proximate the stationary magnet 102 to a second end 206 proximate the stationary magnet 104. In some embodiments, the length L2 can be in the range of about 8 mm to about 100 mm, such as in the range of about 10 mm to about 40 mm.
When the electric generator device 200 is assembled, the stationary magnets 102 and 104 are spaced a distance or gap G2 that defines a total stroke of the moveable magnet 106 as it reciprocates between the stationary magnets 102 and 104. The distance G2 is suitably greater than the length L2 of the coil 202. In some embodiments, for example, the distance G2 is in the range of about 15 mm to about 300 mm. In the example embodiment, the distance G2 is greater than the sum of the widths of the springs 116 and 118 and the length L2 of coil 202. As such, a gap exists between the first end 204 of the coil 202 and the spring clip 108 and a gap exists between the second end 206 of the coil 202 and the spring clip 110.
With reference to
As shown in
The housing 208 is suitably sized and shaped to enable the stationary magnets 102 and 104 and the coil 202 to be positioned as described above. In the example embodiment, the body 214 of the housing 208 has a pseudo-cylindrical shape with an oval or oblong cross-section (shown in
In the example electric generator device 200, the moveable magnet 106 reciprocates between the stationary magnets 102 and 104 as described above with reference to the magnetic assembly 100. In particular, the moveable magnet 106 is reciprocable due to its magnetic interaction with the stationary magnets 102 and 104 and mechanical interaction with the flat springs 116 and 118 of the respective spring clips 108 and 110, as described above with respect to
The coil 202 can be electrically coupled to a load 222 via coil leads 220. The load 222 consumes and/or converts the electrical current that is generated through the coil 202 by reciprocating the magnet 106 therethrough. The load 222 can include, for example and without limitation, a portable electronic device, a light, a power tool, a battery, and combinations thereof. The electric generator device 200 may thereby serve as the power source for the load 222.
The embodiment described above and illustrated in
With reference to
In accordance with the present disclosure, the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 are sized and shaped to implement the LD phenomena and TP rule, as described in detail herein, to transition a repulsive force between the like poles of the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 to an attractive force as the center axes of the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 are axially aligned and the magnets 302 and 304 are brought within a threshold distance to one another. As described in detail herein, the threshold distance corresponds to the point on the force F2 v. gap curve of the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 at which the repulsive force between the magnets 302 and 304 transitions to an attractive force due to the LD phenomena and the TP rule. In this regard, the threshold distance may vary based on the geometry and type of magnets used. Additionally, the threshold distance in this example embodiment may be described as a threshold depth, or length along the tapered tip portion 302a, to which the ring magnet 304 is moved relative to the tapered magnet 302. In some examples, the threshold depth may be about one third of a length L4 of the tapered tip portion 302a. Moreover, the geometry of the magnets 302 and 304, and the type of magnets used, may vary based on design requirements to any geometry or type of magnet that enables the magnets to function as described herein. For example, the magnets 302 and 304 may be any type of magnet that facilitates an attracting force between the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 when the magnets 302 and 304 are like-pole paired and brought within a threshold distance of each other. In some examples, the magnets 302 and 304 are suitably each Nd—Fe—B magnets.
Moreover, the geometry of the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 is such that the tapered magnet 302 and ring magnet 304 are attracted to one another when the tapered tip portion 302a of the tapered magnet 302 is positioned within the center hole 306 of ring magnet 304 (as shown in
The ring magnet 304 has an inner diameter ID1 defining center hole 306 that is large enough to allow hole 306 to receive about one third of the length L4 of tapered tip portion 302a, for example, about 2 mm to about 33 mm of the length L4 of the tapered tip portion 302a. As described above, the threshold distance or depth of the tapered tip portion 302a along which the ring magnet 304 must move in order to transition from a repulsive force to an attractive force between the like poles of the magnets 302 and 304 may be about one third of the length L4 of the tapered tip portion 302a. In some embodiments, the ring magnet 304 may have the following example dimensions: an outer diameter OD2 in the range of about 5 mm to about 50 mm, an inner diameter ID1 in the range of about 3 mm to about 15 mm, and a thickness T4 in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 20 mm. In one particular example, the tapered magnet 302 has a 1 inch (25.4 mm) outer diameter OD1 and the base portion 302b extends 1 inch (25.4 mm) in length, and the ring magnet 304 has the dimensions of 0.75 inches (19.1 mm) OD2×0.375 inches (9.53 mm) ID1×0.25 inches (6.35 mm) thick (T4).
The geometries of the tapered magnet 302 and ring magnet 304 are such that the tapered magnet 302 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,302, and the ring magnet 304 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,304, where Pc,302 is greater than Pc,304 to achieve a ratio Pc,302/Pc,304 above 1 and, more suitably, above 2. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio Pc,302/Pc,304 is suitably in the range of about 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200. The ratio Pc,302/Pc,304 may also be represented as Pc,302:Pc,304. In this regard, an LD effect based on the Pc ratio of the tapered magnet 302 and ring magnet 304 is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of this pairing, and the repulsive force between the magnets 302 and 304 transitions to an attractive force the tapered tip portion 302a of the tapered magnet 302 is inserted beyond a threshold depth into the ring magnet 304. For example, the transition of repulsive force to attractive force may occur at the point where the tapered tip portion 302a is inserted into the center hole 306 of the ring magnet 304 a threshold depth of about one third of the length L4 of the tapered tip portion 302a. Accordingly, as the tapered tip portion 302a of the tapered magnet 302 is inserted into the center hole 306 of ring magnet 304, with the tapered magnet 302 and ring magnet 304 in axial alignment along axis X1, the force between the like poles transitions from repulsion to attraction. When the ring magnet 304 is brought out of axial alignment with the tapered magnet 302 (e.g., by translating and/or rotating the tapered magnet 302 and the ring magnet 304 relative to one another), the like poles repel one another. Additionally or alternatively, the ring magnet 304 may be brought toward the end of the tapered tip portion 302a, opposite the base portion 302b, where the attractive force becomes a repulsive force between the like poles of the magnets 302 and 304. This repelling force can be used to propel or launch ring magnet 304, with potentially considerable force depending on the selected geometries of the magnet 302 and 304. This provides a forceful propulsion that can be used for certain mechanical actions.
With reference to
The first plate 352 includes at least one tapered magnet 358 extending between a base 360 and a tip 362. The base 360 of each tapered magnet 358 is secured to the planar surface 356 of the first plate 352, and each tapered magnet 358 extends from the planar surface 356 to the tip 362. In the example embodiment, the first plate 352 includes four tapered magnets 358. Moreover, the base 360 of each tapered magnet 358 is secured to the planar surface 356 at or adjacent a respective corner of the first plate 352, and each of the tapered magnets 358 is equally spaced from the tapered magnets 358 secured at adjacent corners. Each of the tapered magnets 358 has the same size and shape in the illustrated embodiment. In some examples, the tapered magnets 358 have a conical shape, a pyramidal shape, a frustoconical shape, or a frustopyramidal shape. In some embodiments, the base 360 of each tapered magnet 358 has an outer diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 20 mm, and each tapered magnet 358 extends a length between the base 360 and the tip 362 in the range of about 6 mm to about 20 mm.
The second plate 354 includes at least one ring magnet 364 that receives the tip 362 of the at least one tapered magnet 358 to removably secure the first plate 352 to the second plate 354. In the example embodiment, the second plate 354 includes four ring magnets 364 at respective corners of the second plate 354, and each of the four ring magnets 364 aligns with and receives the tip 362 of one of the tapered magnets 358. More specifically, each ring magnet 364 defines a central opening 370 that extends through the second plate 354 from the planar surface 366 through the planar surface 368. Each ring magnet 364 is suitably positioned such that the ring magnet 364 is configured to axially align with the corresponding tapered magnet 358 when the second plate 354 is releasably secured to the first plate 352. In accordance with the present disclosure, the like poles of each aligning tapered magnet 358 and ring magnet 364 are oriented toward each other. For example, where the N pole of each tapered magnet 358 is at the tip 362, the tip 362 is received into the N side of the ring magnet 364 which is on the side of the planar surface 368. Alternatively, wherein the S pole of each tapered magnet 358 is at the tip 362, the tip 362 is received into the S side of the ring magnet 364 which is on the side of the planar surface 368. Moreover, each ring magnet 364 has a suitable size to implement the LD phenomena and TD rule such that the like poles of each pair of one of the tapered magnets 358 and one of the ring magnets 364 attract each other when the tip 362 of the tapered magnet 358 is inserted beyond a threshold depth, for example, beyond about one third of the length of the tapered magnet 358, measured from the tip 362. In some embodiments, each ring magnet 364 has an outer diameter in the range of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, an inner diameter in the range of about 3 mm to about 15 mm, and a thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.
The geometry of the magnets 358 and 364, and the type of magnets used, may vary based on design requirements to any geometry or type of magnet that enables the magnets to function as described herein. For example, the magnets 358 and 364 may be any type of magnet that facilitates an attractive force between the tapered magnet 358 and the aligning ring magnet 364 when each pair of magnets 358 and 364 are like-pole paired and brought within a threshold distance of each other (i.e., when the tapered magnet 358 is inserted beyond a threshold depth, for example, about one third of the length of the tapered magnet 358 measured from the tip 362). In some embodiments, each of the magnets 358 and 364 is an Nd—Fe—B.
For each pair of aligning tapered magnet 358 and ring magnet 364, the geometries of the tapered magnet 358 and ring magnet 364 are such that the tapered magnet 358 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,358, and the ring magnet 364 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,364, where Pc,358 is greater than Pc,364 to achieve a ratio Pc,358/Pc,364 above 1 and, more suitably, above 2. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio Pc,358/Pc,364 is suitably in the range of about 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200. The ratio Pc,358/Pc,364 may also be represented as Pc,358:Pc,364. In this regard, an LD effect based on the Pc ratio of the tapered magnet 358 and ring magnet 364 pairing is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of this pairing, and the repulsive force between the magnets 358 and 364 transitions from a repulsive force to an attractive force as the tapered magnet 358 is inserted a threshold distance or length into the ring magnet 364, measured from the tip 362. For example, the transition of repulsive force to attractive force may occur at the point where the tip 362 is inserted into the opening 370 of the ring magnet 364 a threshold depth of about one third of the length of the tapered magnet 358, measured from the tip 362. Accordingly, as the tip 362 of each of the tapered magnets 358 is inserted into the opening 370 of the aligning ring magnet 364, with the tapered magnet 358 and the ring magnet 364 in axial alignment, the force between the like poles transitions from repulsion to attraction. Thereby, the second plate 354 is secured to the first plate 352 by magnetic attractive forces. When the ring magnet 364 is brought out of axial alignment with the aligning tapered magnet 358 (e.g., by translating and/or rotating the tapered magnet 358 and the ring magnet 364 relative to one another), the like poles repel one another. When the like poles of one or more pairs of an aligning tapered magnet 358 and ring magnet 364 repel one another, the second plate 354 may be released from the first plate 352. Additionally or alternatively, the ring magnet 364 may be brought toward the end of the tapered magnet 358, to the tip 362, where the attractive force transitions to a repulsive force between the like poles of the magnets 358 and 364. This repelling force between one or more pairs of the magnets 358 and 364 can be used to release the second plate 354 from the first plate 352.
The magnetic assembly 350 described above and shown in
With reference to
The magnets 402 and 404 are suitably sized and shaped to use the LD phenomena and TP rule, as described in detail herein, to alternate the attraction and repulsion between the movable magnet 404 and the stationary magnet 402. In this example, each of the magnets 402 and 404 is disc shaped, although the magnets 402 and 404 may have any suitable shape to enable the propulsion device 400 to function as described herein. The geometry (e.g., outer diameter and length or thickness) of the magnets 402 and 404, and the type of magnets used, are such that, when the magnets 402 and 404 are axially aligned and the magnets 402 and 404 are brought to within a threshold distance of one another, the like poles of the magnets 402 and 404 attract each other. The threshold distance corresponds to the point on the force F2 v. gap curve of the moveable magnet 404 and the stationary magnet 402 pairing at which the repulsive force between the magnets 402 and 404 transitions to an attractive force due to the LD phenomena and the TP rule, as described in detail herein. In this regard, the threshold distance may vary based on the geometry and type of magnets used. In some examples, the threshold distance may be less than about 2 mm, such as about 0.5 mm. Moreover, the geometry of the magnets 402 and 404, and the type of magnets used, may vary based on design requirements to any geometry or type of magnet that enables the magnets to function as described herein. For example, the magnets 402 and 404 may be any type of magnet that facilitates an attractive force between the moveable magnet 404 and the stationary magnet 402 when the magnets 402 and 404 are like-pole paired and brought within a threshold distance of each other. In some examples, the magnets 402 and 404 are suitably each Nd—Fe—B magnets.
In the example embodiment, each of the magnets 402 and 404 is a cylindrically shaped magnet (i.e., the magnets 402 and 404 are disc magnets). As shown in
In some embodiments, the moveable magnet 404 may have an outer diameter in the range of about 3 millimeters (mm) to about 30 mm and a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 30 mm, and the stationary magnet 402 may have an outer diameter in the range of about 10 mm to about 90 mm and a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 20 mm. The outer diameter of the stationary magnet 402 is suitably greater than the outer diameter of the moveable magnet 404. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the stationary magnet 402 is suitably at least three times larger than the outer diameter of the moveable magnet.
The geometries of the stationary magnet 402 and the moveable magnet 404 are such that the magnet 402 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,402, and the magnet 404 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,404, where Pc,404 is greater than Pc,402 to achieve a ratio Pc,404/Pc,402 above 1 and, more suitably, above 2. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio Pc,404/Pc,402 is suitably in the range of about 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200. The ratio Pc,404/Pc,402 may also be represented as Pc,404:Pc,402. Accordingly, an attractive force between the like poles of the magnets 402 and 404 can be created when the magnet 404 is axially aligned with the magnet 402, and the magnets 402 and 404 are positioned within a threshold distance of one another. That is, magnet 404 is unequally sized with magnet 402 where an LD effect based on the ratio Pc,404/Pc,402 is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of this pairing, and the force between the like poles of these magnets transitions from a repulsive force to an attractive force as the magnets 402 and 404 are moved, in axial alignment, to within a threshold distance of one another (e.g., less than 0.5 mm). When the magnet 404 is brought out of axial alignment with the magnet 402, the like poles repel one another, and the magnet 404 may be propelled away from the stationary magnet 402.
To control the repulsive and attractive forces between the magnets 402 and 404 based on the LD phenomena and the TP rule, the propulsion device 400 also includes an actuator 406, illustrated as a machine arm in this embodiment, sized and shaped to receive the magnet 404 therein, and configured to move magnet 404 relative to magnet 402. In some embodiments, the actuator 406 can be manually controlled by an operator or automatically controlled by a suitable controller. As shown in
With reference to
The magnet 452 and moveable magnetic body 454 are suitably sized and shaped to use the LD phenomena and TP rule, as described in detail herein, to alternate the attraction and repulsion between the moveable magnetic body 454 and the magnet 452. The geometry (e.g., outer diameter and length or thickness) of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454, and the type of magnets used therefor, are such that, when the magnet 452 and moveable magnetic body 454 are axially aligned and brought to within a threshold distance of one another, the like poles of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 attract each other. The threshold distance corresponds to the point on the force F2 v. gap curve of the moveable magnetic body 454 and the magnet 452 pairing at which the repulsive force between the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 transitions to an attractive force due to the LD phenomena and the TP rule, as described in detail herein. In this regard, the threshold distance may vary based on the geometry and type of magnets used. In some examples, the threshold distance may be less than about 2 mm, such as about 0.5 mm. Moreover, the geometry of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454, and the type of magnets used, may vary based on design requirements to any geometry or type of magnet that enables the propulsion device 450 to function as described herein. For example, the magnets 452 and 460 may be any type of magnet that facilitates an attracting force between the moveable magnetic body 454 and the magnet 452 when the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 are like-pole paired and brought within a threshold distance of each other. In some examples, the magnets 452 and 460 are suitably each Nd—Fe—B magnets.
In the example embodiment, the magnet 452 is a cylindrically shaped magnet (i.e., a disc magnet). The magnet 452 has a first or front surface 456, a second or back surface (not labeled), and a circumferential surface 458 joining the front surface 456 and the back surface. The front surface 456 of the magnet 452 is on the N side of the magnet 452 in this example. The magnet 460 is also a cylindrically shaped magnet (i.e., a disc magnet) in the example embodiment, and is suitably constructed of permanent magnetic materials, including, for example and without limitation, Nd—Fe—B, SmCo30, and combinations thereof. In addition to the permanent magnet 460, the moveable magnetic body 454 includes a tapered portion or body 462 fixedly coupled to the magnet 460. The tapered portion 462 may be utilized to further increase a permeance coefficient of the moveable magnetic body 454 and to facilitate improving a mechanical strength of the moveable magnetic body 454 during operation of the propulsion device 450. The tapered portion 462 can be constructed of permanent magnetic materials, such as those listed above, or non-permanent magnetic materials. In some embodiments, for example, the tapered portion 462 is constructed of soft magnetic material or magnetic material with a high saturation of magnetization, including, for example and without limitation, cold rolled steel.
The moveable magnetic body 454 is oriented such that the magnet 460 faces the front surface 456 of the magnet 452, and the tapered portion 462 extends from the magnet 460 opposite the magnet 452. As such, the end of the magnet 460 opposite the tapered portion 462 is the N side of the moveable magnetic body 454, and the end of the tapered portion 462 opposite the magnet 460 is the S side of the body 454. In the example embodiment, the tapered portion 462 of the moveable magnetic body 454 has a frustoconical shape, although in other embodiments the tapered portion 462 may have, for example and without limitation, a conical shape, a pyramidal shape, or a frustopyramidal shape. Each of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 includes a center axis Y5 and Y6, respectively (shown in
The moveable magnetic body 454 may have a main outer diameter in the range of about 3 millimeters (mm) to about 30 mm. The main outer diameter of the moveable magnetic body 454 corresponds to the outer diameter of the magnet 460. The outer diameter of the moveable magnetic body 454 at the end of the tapered portion 462 opposite the magnet 460 is in the range of about 2 to about 20 mm. The magnet 460 of the moveable magnetic body 454 has a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 30 mm. The tapered portion 462 of the moveable magnetic body 454 has a thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 200 mm. The magnet 452 may suitably have an outer diameter that is at least three times larger than the main outer diameter of the moveable magnetic body 454. For example, the magnet 452 may have an outer diameter in the range of about 10 mm to about 90 mm. The magnet 452 may have a thickness in the range of about 1 mm to about 20 mm.
The geometries of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 are such that the magnet 452 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,452, and the body 454 has a suitable permeance coefficient Pc,454, where Pc,454 is greater than Pc,452 to achieve a ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 above 1 and, more suitably, above 2. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 is suitably in the range of about 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200, In one example, the ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 is above 5. In some examples, the permeance coefficient of the magnet 460 of the moveable magnetic body 454 is sufficient to achieve a ratio of above 2, and the additional tapered portion 462 further increases the Pc,454 and, accordingly, the ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 (e.g., to above 5). The ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 may also be represented as Pc,454:Pc,452. Accordingly, an attracting force between the like poles of the magnet 452 and the moveable magnetic body 454 can be created when the center axis Y6 of moveable magnetic body 454 is axially aligned with the center axis Y5 of the magnet 452, and the magnet 452 and moveable magnetic body 454 are positioned within a threshold distance of one another. That is, moveable magnetic body 454 is unequally sized with magnet 452 where an LD effect based on the ratio Pc,454/Pc,452 is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of this pairing, and the force between the like poles of the magnet and magnetic body transitions from a repulsive force to an attractive force as the magnet 452 and moveable magnetic body 454 are moved, in axial alignment, to within a threshold distance of one another (e.g., less than 0.5 mm). When the moveable magnetic body 454 is brought out of axial alignment with the magnet 452, the like poles repel one another, and the moveable magnetic body 454 may be propelled away from the magnet 452.
The propulsion device 450 can also include a housing 464, a guide 466 positioned within the housing 464, and a trigger or pin 468. Each of the housing 464, the guide 466, and the pin 468 are suitably made of non-magnetic material(s). The housing 464 defines a cavity (not labeled), and is sized and shaped to enclose the magnets 452 and 454 therein. The housing 464 is cylindrically shaped in this example, although the housing 464 may have any other suitable shape that enables the propulsion device 450 to function as described herein. The housing 464 extends from a first end 470 to a second end 472. The magnet 452 is positioned at the first end 470 of the housing 464, and the housing 464 and the magnet 452 are axially aligned along the center axis Y5. In the example embodiment, the housing 464 includes a tubular body 474 that is open at the first end 470 and the second end 472. The tubular body 474 defines an interior and surrounds the magnet 452, the moveable magnetic body 454, and the guide 466. A cover 476 is attached to the tubular body 474 at the first end 470 and the cover 476 covers the back surface of the magnet 452. The tubular body 474 is uncovered at the second end 472, which provides an egress for the moveable magnetic body 454 during operation of the propulsion device 450.
In the example embodiment, the cylindrical body 474 of the housing 464 has a circular cross-section (shown in
The guide 466 extends a length L8 from a first end 478 proximate the front surface 456 of the magnet 452 to a second end 480. The length La may be, for example, in the range of about 25 mm to about 100 mm. The first end 478 may be spaced from the front surface 456 of the magnet 452, which provides a space for the pin 468 to be biased and operatively coupled to the moveable magnetic body 454. The guide 466 is tubular and open at both ends 478 and 480. The guide has three channels which are sized and shaped to enable the moveable magnetic body 454 to move therethrough during operation of the propulsion device 450. In particular, the guide 466 has a central channel 482 that extends coaxially with the center axis Y5. The guide 466 has two side channels 484 that extend on opposite sides of the central channel 482. Suitably, the side channels 484 each axially align with the center axis Y6 of the moveable magnetic body 454 when the moveable magnetic body 454 is moved out of axial alignment with the magnet 452, described in more detail below. The inner diameter of each channel 482 and 484 depends on the main outer diameter of the moveable magnetic body 454 to provide clearance for the moveable magnetic body 454. The outer diameter OD3 of each channel 482 and 484 may be, for example, in the range of about 4 mm to about 30 mm. The guide 466 has a width W5 within the housing 464 that is substantially the same as the inner diameter ID2. For example, the W5 may be in the range of about 10 mm to about 90 mm.
Each of the guide 466 and the magnet 452 may be rotatable relative to the housing 464 about the center axis Y5. For example, bearing balls (not shown) may be inserted between the circumferential surface 458 of the magnet 452 and an inner surface 486 of the body 474 to enable the magnet 452 to rotate within the housing 464 about the center axis Y5. Additionally, bearing balls (not shown) may be inserted between opposing outer edges of the guide 466 (which define the width W5 of the guide 466) and the inner surface 486 of the body 474 to enable the guide 466 to rotate within the housing 464 about the center axis Y5. The pin 468 may also be moveable depending on the orientation of the guide 466 so that biasing the pin 468 moves the moveable magnetic body 454 into axial alignment with one of the side channels 484 of the guide 466. Rotating the magnet 452 and/or the guide 466 may facilitate reducing friction heat and demagnetization at a single location on the front surface 456 of the magnet 452 over an operational lifetime of the propulsion device 450. In some examples, the guide 466 and the magnet 452 may be connected to enable the guide 466 and the magnet 452 to rotate in unison. For example, the first end 478 of the guide 466 may extend to and be connected to the front surface 456 of the magnet 452.
The pin 468 extends through a hole (not labeled) on a side of the body 474 of the housing 464, and the pin 468 is configured to move the moveable magnetic body 454 out of axial alignment with the magnet 452. The pin 468 is cylindrically shaped and extends through the housing 464, for example, a length within the range of about 5 mm and 40 mm. The pin 468 may have an outer diameter, for example, in the range of about 1 mm to about 5 mm. Suitably, the pin 468 extends through a space between the magnet 452 and the first end 478 of the guide 466. Alternatively, in examples where the guide 466 is connected to the magnet 452, the pin 468 also extends through the guide 466. The pin 468 is configured to be biased and operatively coupled to the circumferential surface of the magnet 460 of the moveable magnetic body 454. The pin 468 may be biased by a user or by an external actuator (not shown) to cause the moveable magnetic body 454 to move out of axial alignment with the magnet 452. In this regard, the pin 468 may be utilized to initiate operation of the propulsion device 450.
With reference to
As shown in
The example propulsion devices 300, 350, 400, and 450 described above and illustrated in
With reference to
The cap 530 includes a base 532 and a second magnet ring 534. The base 532 of the cap 530 has a surface 533 that faces the top edge of the lip 520 of the vessel 510 when the cap 530 is secured to the vessel 510 to form an enclosure. An annular recess 535 is formed in the surface 533 of the base 532, and the annular recess 535 is sized and shaped to receive the second magnet ring 534. The cap 530 is disc shaped and has an outer diameter in the range of about 85 mm to about 300 mm. The thickness of the cap 530 is in the range of about 4 mm to about 20 mm. The second magnet ring 534 includes a plurality of magnets 536 (e.g., disc magnets) spaced circumferentially about the second magnet ring 534 and coupled thereto. The magnets 526 are spaced such that each magnet 536 is positioned to be axially aligned with and corresponds to a respective one of the magnets 526. The first and second magnet rings 524 and 534 are both made from a non-magnetic material and are configured to sealingly engage one another when the cap 530 is releasably secured to the vessel 510, described further below. The outer diameter of the first and second magnet rings 524 and 534 is substantially the same and is in the range of about 80 mm to about 300 mm. The first magnet ring 524 has a thickness in the range of about 1.5 mm to about 5 mm, and the second magnet ring 534 has a thickness in the range of about 2.5 mm to about 10 mm. In some examples, the first magnet ring 524 includes the magnets 526 circumferentially spaced uniformly about the ring 524, and the second magnet ring 534 includes the magnets 536 circumferentially spaced uniformly about the ring 524. In some examples, the first magnet ring 524 includes six or more magnets 526 and the second magnet ring 534 includes six or more magnets 536. For example, the first magnet ring 524 includes eight magnets 526 and the second magnet ring 534 includes eight magnets 536.
The like poles of the magnets 526 and magnets 536 face each other (i.e., N→←N or S→←S) when the cap 530 is positioned on top of the vessel 510. In accordance with the present disclosure, each of the magnets 536 is unequally sized with the respective one of the magnets 526 where an LD effect based on the Pc ratio of these magnets is such that a TP can be observed on the force v. gap curves of these pairings. In some examples, the magnets 526 and 536 are suitably each Nd—Fe—B magnets. For each pair of a magnet 526 and a magnet 536, the magnet 536 has a permeance coefficient Pc,536 that is greater than a permeance coefficient Pc,526 of the magnet 526, to achieve a ratio Pc,536/Pc,526 above 1 and, more suitably, above 2. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio Pc,536/Pc,526 is suitably in the range of about 2 to about 300, in the range of about 10 to about 250, in the range of about 50 to about 225, or in the range of about 100 to about 200. The ratio Pc,536/Pc,526 may also be represented as Pc,536:Pc,526. In the example embodiment, the magnets 526 have a larger area with an outer diameter in the range of about 3 mm to about 20 mm and a length or thickness in the range of about 1 mm to about 5 mm. The magnets 536 have an outer diameter in the range of about 2 mm to about 15 mm and a length or thickness in the range of about 2 mm to about 10 mm. Accordingly, as the magnets 536 are moved in axial alignment with the magnets 526 and the gap between the magnets 536 and the magnets 526 is reduced to within a threshold distance (e.g., less than 0.5 mm) as defined above, the force between the like poles transitions from repulsion to attraction. As a result, the cap 530 is attracted towards the vessel 510 and the cap 530 is releasably secured to the vessel 510. The magnet ring 524 of the vessel 510 can thereby form a seal with the magnet ring 536 of the cap 530. When the magnets 536 are brought out of axial alignment with the magnets 526 (e.g., by rotating cap 530), the like poles of the magnets 526 and the magnets 536 repel each other and the seal between vessel 510 and cap 530 is broken.
The embodiments described above and illustrated in
As discussed in detail above, the embodiments disclosed with reference to
Since 1982, Nd—Fe—B magnets' applications have spread rapidly over many sectors of industry. Nd—Fe—B magnets offer lighter weight, stronger mechanical strength, and lower cost than other rare earth magnets, because of their high remanence and high energy product. It is well known that magnets only have functions after magnetization. If Nd—Fe—B magnets are pre-magnetized before assembly of permanent magnet devices, the attracting or repelling force between the adjacent magnets exerts mechanical stresses on the magnets. This can make assembly of magnets more difficult, and may cause damage (e.g., chipping) of the magnets. Therefore, in some cases, unmagnetized Nd—Fe—B magnets are preferred for assembly of permanent magnet devices if the individual magnet parts can be magnetized conveniently after assembly. There is a design trend to use in-situ magnetic patterning devices, which magnetize several magnets at once, or magnetize one magnet into several poles, after assembly of the device. However, most in-situ magnetizers require complicated and costly coil winding fixtures with a pulse magnetizer and a large bank of capacitors. There is therefore a need to provide in-situ magnetic patterning device without the need for AC power and complicated coil winding fixtures.
Embodiments of the present disclosure include an in-situ magnetic patterner without an external power source which solve the aforementioned problems. The magnetic patterner can reverse the magnetic polarity of thin Nd—Fe—B magnets with a low permeance coefficient Pc in-situ and form multipole patterns on the thin Nd—Fe—B magnets. These thin magnets may include, for example and without limitation, the N-series of Nd—Fe—B magnets with intrinsic coercivity Hcj<13 kOe at room temperature, the M-series or the H-series, and the SH-series with their Hcj<13 kOe at moderated temperatures from 40° C. to 100° C., as well as bonded magnets and flexible magnets.
N55-type Nd—Fe—B magnets have Hcj<12 kOe at T=20° C. (see
With reference to
The patterner assembly 600 includes a first magnetic patterner 606a and a second magnetic patterner 606b. The first magnetic patterner 606a and the second magnetic patterner 606b each include, respectively, a non-magnetic holder 610a and 610b and a plurality of magnets 612a and 612b. In some embodiments, each patterner 606a and 606b may include a single magnet 612a and 612b. Each of the holders 610a and 610b is rectangularly shaped with a planar top edge 614a and 614b and a planar bottom edge 616a and 616b opposite the respective top edge 614a and 614b. The first magnetic patterner 606a and the second magnetic pattern 606b are vertically aligned such that the bottom edge 616a of the first patterner 606a faces the top edge 614b of the second patterner 606b. The bottom edge 616a of the first patterner 606a and the top edge 614b of the second patterner 606b are spaced apart and the magnet 602 is positioned in the space therebetween. Thereby, the magnet 602 can be sandwiched between the bottom edge 616a and the top edge 614b, and the bottom edge 616a and the top edge 614b are sized and shaped corresponding to the size and shape of thin magnet 602. In particular, the thin magnet 602 extends from a planar surface 618, which faces the top edge 614b, on the N pole side of the magnet 602 to a planar surface 620, which faces the bottom edge 616a, on the S pole side of the magnet 602. The top edge 614b and the bottom edge 616a are sized and shaped corresponding to the size and shape of the planar surfaces 618 and 620.
Each of the magnets 612a and 612b extends longitudinally between the top edge 614a and 614b and the bottom edge 616a and 616b of the respective patterner 606a and 606b. In the example embodiment, each of the magnets 612a and 612b has an elongate, rectangular body that extends between the top edge 614a and 614b and the bottom edge 616a and 616b. The magnetic north (N) pole of each of the magnets 612a and 612b is exposed at the top edge 614a and 614b of the respective patterner 606a and 606b, and the magnetic south (S) pole of each of the magnets is exposed at the bottom edge 616a and 616b of the respective patterner 606a and 606b. In other embodiments, only one of, or neither of, the N pole or S pole of each of the magnets 612a and 612b may be exposed. For example, in one embodiment, the S poles of the magnets 612a in the first patterner 606a are exposed through the bottom edge 616a and the N poles thereof are not exposed, and the N poles of the magnets 612b in the second patterner 606b are exposed through the top edge 614b and the S poles thereof are not exposed.
Each of the magnets 612a is axially aligned with one of the magnets 612b. The magnets 612a are oriented such that the S poles of the magnets 612a face the S pole of the magnet 602 and the magnets 612b are oriented such that the N poles of the magnets 612b face the N pole of the magnet 602. The magnets 612a are spaced apart and the magnets 612b are spaced apart such that the pairs of axially aligned magnets 612a and 612b form an array in a desired arrangement for the multi-pole patterning of the magnet 602. In the example embodiment, the first patterner 606a and the second patterner 606b each include twelve magnets 612a and 612b spaced apart and arranged in a 6×2 array. In other embodiments, any number of magnets 612a and 612b in any desired arrangement may be included in the patterner assembly 600. The area of the cross-section of each of the magnets 612a and 612b along the extension of the magnet 612a and 612b between the top edge 614a and 614b and the bottom edge 616a and 616b, respectively, is significantly smaller than the area of the respective planar surfaces 618 and 620 of the thin magnet 602. Additionally, each pair of axially aligned magnets 612a and 612b suitably have substantially the same cross-sectional area. Thereby, the magnets 612a and 612b are enabled to demagnetize localized areas on the magnet 602, shown as the multiple poles 604 after magnetization in
The thin magnet 602 to be magnetized by the patterner assembly 600 is suitably an Nd—Fe—B magnet. For example, the magnet 602 is an N55 magnet or an N48SH magnet. In some examples, each of the magnets 612a and 612b are also suitably Nd—Fe—B magnets, such as N55 magnet or an N48SH magnet. The magnet 602 has a relatively low Pc,602 compared to a relatively high Pc,612a of each of the plurality of magnets 612a and a relatively high Pc,612b of each of the plurality of magnets 612b. Accordingly, an LD effect based on the Pc ratio of these magnets occurs at each localized area when the magnets 612a and 612b are positioned adjacent to, or within a threshold distance of, the respective planar surface 620 and 618 of the magnet 602. Moreover, the type of magnet selected for the magnet 602 is such that the magnet 602 experiences a permanent LD, which is suitable to reverse the magnetic polarity of the magnet 602 at the localized areas thereon. Suitably, the ratio Pc,612a/Pc,602 is above 40, and the ratio Pc,612b/Pc,602 is above 40. The ratio Pc,612a/Pc,602 and the ratio Pc,612b/Pc,602 are not limited to an upper bound range, and each may be as high as about 3,000. The ratio Pc,612a/Pc,602 may also be represented as Pc,612a:Pc,602 and the ratio Pc,612b/Pc,602 may also be represented as Pc,612b:Pc,602.
The ratio Pc,612a/Pc,602 and the ratio Pc,612b/Pc,602 is achieved by the geometry selected for the thin magnet 602 and each of the plurality of magnets 612a and 612b. The geometries of the magnet 602 and 612a and 612b are not limited and may vary between applications to enable the patterner assembly 600 to function as described herein. In the example embodiment, the magnet 602 has a rectangular shape with a height in the range of about 10 mm to about 50 mm, a width in the range of about 15 mm to about 300 mm, and a length or thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. The relatively small Pc is achieved by the large width and height relative to a small thickness. All of the magnets 612a and 612b have substantially the same dimensions as one another, with a length in the range of about 10 mm to about 50 mm, a width in the range of about 1 mm to about 8 mm, and a height in the range of about 1 mm to about 8 mm. The relatively large Pc of the magnets 612a and 612b is achieved by the large length relative to a small height and width. Accordingly, as described above, the magnets 612a and 612b each have a rectangular cross-section with a relatively small width and height such that the magnets 612a and 612b each present a small surface area at the exposed N and S poles, respectively, relative to a large surface area of the planar surfaces 618 and 620 of the magnet 602. The small surface area presented by the magnets 612a and 612b corresponds to the localized areas on the magnet 602 that are demagnetized to reverse the magnetic polarity thereof and form the poles 604.
As shown in
Referring to
The patterners 606a and 606b can be moved, by sliding the patterner frames 624a and 624b along the side rails 622a and 622b, between a magnetizing position (shown in
The embodiments described above and illustrated in
As used herein, the terms “about,” “substantially,” “essentially” and “approximately” when used in conjunction with ranges of dimensions, concentrations, temperatures or other physical or chemical properties or characteristics is meant to cover variations that may exist in the upper and/or lower limits of the ranges of the properties or characteristics, including, for example, variations resulting from rounding, measurement methodology or other statistical variation.
When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the embodiment(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. The use of terms indicating a particular orientation (e.g., “top”, “bottom”, “side”, etc.) is for convenience of description and does not require any particular orientation of the item described.
As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawing[s] shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Although specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.
This written description uses examples to illustrate the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/265,205, filed on Dec. 10, 2021, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2022/033258 | 6/13/2022 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63265205 | Dec 2021 | US |
