EA008491B1 - Switchable magnetic device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a switchable magnetic device. Additional embodiments of the present invention relate to different devices including the switchable magnetic device. One embodiment of the present invention is the switchable magnetic device which comprises a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being mounted within the housing such that the first and second magnets are rotatable relative to each other, between a "fully off' position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are in substantial alignment with the south and north poles respectively of the second magnet such that the device presents a relatively weak external magnetic field, and a "fully on" position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are positioned substantially in alignment with the north and south poles respectively of the second magnet such that the device presents a relatively strong external magnetic field, characterised in that biasing means are operatively associated with one or both of the first and second magnets to bias the relative rotation of said magnets toward the “fully on” position, and wherein placing said device on or in close proximity to a ferromagnetic material causes the first and second magnets to rotate to a relative orientation such that the device presents a relatively strong external magnetic field. In the first embodiment of the present invention the switchable magnetic device is produced which can be automatically switched to the “ on” position, such that the device presents a relatively strong external magnetic field, when the device is on or in close proximity to a ferromagnetic material.

Description

The present invention relates to a switchable magnetic device. Additional aspects of the present invention furthermore relate to various devices including a switchable magnetic device.

Prior art

At the same time pending international patent application PCT / Ai00 / 01505 and simultaneously received US patent No. 6707360 (the full contents of which are included here as references) describes a switchable permanent magnetic device. This device includes a housing and the first and second permanent magnets mounted in the housing. The first and second permanent magnets are fixed in the housing in such a way that they are able to rotate relative to each other. This is preferably achieved when one of the magnets is fixed in place and the second magnet can rotate. In the device simultaneously pending international patent application PCT / AI00 / 01505, the first and second magnets can be placed so that the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned along the orientation with respect to the north and south poles of the second magnet. When magnets have this orientation, the device creates a strong external magnetic field. The magnets can also be rotated relative to each other so that the north pole of the first magnet is substantially aligned in orientation with the south pole of the second magnet, and the south pole of the first magnet is essentially aligned in orientation with the north pole of the second magnet. With this orientation, the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field. Magnets are rotated by means of enabling devices.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

Unless otherwise indicated, in the description and claims, the term “switchable magnetic device” should be considered to refer to a device comprising a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet, with the first and second permanent magnets moving relative to each other between the off state (“Oh” state), in which the magnets are aligned in orientation so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the “on” state (“op” state m), in which the magnets are aligned in orientation so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field.

In the present invention, preferred switchable magnetic devices are those which comprise a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, with the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the “fully off” position ", In which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device with çäàåò relatively weak external magnetic field, and a position "fully ON" in which north and south poles of the first magnet is substantially aligned orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device provides a relatively strong external magnetic field. The advantage of the proposed switchable magnetic device is that it includes bias devices that are operatively connected with the first and second magnets to shift the relative rotation of said magnets to the “fully on” position, and where the location of said device is on a ferromagnetic material or in the immediate vicinity of it causes the first and second magnets to rotate to such a relative orientation that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field.

Preferably, when said device is located on or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material, the value of the force required to cause the relative rotation of the first and second magnet to the “fully on” position is within the first predetermined range, and when said device is not in contact with or close to the ferromagnetic material, the value of the force required to cause the relative rotation of the first and second magnet to the “fully on” position, is within the second predefined range, the specified second predefined range of force values has a higher maximum force value compared to the first predefined range of force values, and the specified bias device uses rotational force to shift the relative rotation of the specified magnets to the “fully on” position with a force exceeding the maximum value of the force from the first specified range, but less than The maximum value of the force from the second specified range, thus the magnets automatically rotate to the “fully on” position when the device is located on or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material. The biasing device is preferably a spring.

Such a switchable automatic device can automatically switch to the “on” position, in which the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field when it is located on or in the immediate vicinity of the ferromagnetic material.

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The present invention can also use a switchable magnetic device that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, with the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the “completely off” position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates relative but a weak external magnetic field, and a “fully on” position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, distinguished by that the specified device, in addition, includes limiting the rotation of the device, to limit the degree of relative rotation of the magnets.

A device limiting rotation can allow relative rotation of the magnets between the off state, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are most closely aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field and the on state, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are approximately aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field.

In the on state, the angle of displacement of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, is preferably less than 15 °. More preferably, the offset is about 10 °. The enabled position may be the “fully on” position.

In the off position, the angle of displacement of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, is preferably less than 40 °. More preferably, it is less than 30 °. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the magnets in the “fully off” position correspond to the off state.

The rotation limiting device limits the relative rotation of the magnets up to an angle of less than or equal to 180 °. Preferably, the rotation limiting device prevents the said magnets from moving to the “fully on” position.

A device that restricts rotation may allow relative rotation of the magnets through an angle greater than 180 °. Preferably, the rotation limiting device allows the relative rotation of the magnets until they reach an orientation corresponding to the orientation behind the “fully on” position.

Preferably, when using the device on or in the immediate vicinity of the ferromagnetic material, the magnets remain in the on position due to the holding force.

It is also preferable that when the device is on the ferromagnetic material or in its immediate vicinity, the first value of force is required to keep the magnets in the on position, and when the device is not in the immediate vicinity of the ferromagnetic material, the second is required to keep the magnets in the on state the value of the force is greater than the first, and the value of the holding force used to hold the magnets in the on position is greater than the first value and less than the second e value, which allows the magnets to automatically come to the off position when rotating, when the device is removed from the contact position with the ferromagnetic material or close to it.

The holding force can be a friction force. In addition, the device may include a holding device designed to apply a holding force to keep the magnets in the on position when the device is in contact with a ferromagnetic material or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material. The holding device preferably includes a locking device that produces a predetermined value of force, smaller than the second value of force, but greater than the first.

The present invention can also use switchable magnetic devices that comprise a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, with the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the “fully off” position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates relate flax is a weak external magnetic field, and the “fully on” position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, distinguished by that the relative rotation of the first and second magnets is limited so that these magnets are prevented from reaching the “fully on” position, but the first and second magnets can rotate until eniya a predetermined relative orientation that the north and

- 2 008491 the south poles of the first magnet are close to alignment, but not fully aligned in orientation with the corresponding north and south poles of the second magnet, so that the device still creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, and the device automatically switches to the state when the external magnetic field is relatively weak when the device is removed from contact with or from the immediate ferromagnetic material.

Alternatively, the present invention may use a switchable magnetic device that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, with the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the “fully off” position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates relatively weak external magnetic field, and the “fully on” position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field and includes a device is designed so as to bring the first and second magnets in motion relative to each other, characterized in that said including device contains a flexible part, which is deformed if riser is activated in the absence of an external magnetic circuit, whereby the limited relative rotation of said magnets, wherein said flexible part produces a sufficient force to substantially avoid deformation during the activation of said devices comprising in the presence of an external magnetic circuit.

Preferably, said flexible part is a spring connection.

Preferably, said flexible part can be deformed to maximum stretching, after which the continuing activation of the engaging device causes the relative rotation of the magnets.

If an external magnetic circuit is installed and the device is switched to the “on” position, the device can remain in the “on” position if the external magnetic circuit is forcibly removed. Thus, the device can work as a "consultant" of memory, since its status can indicate whether successful contact with an external magnetic circuit has been made.

The housing may include a pair of passive ferromagnetic elements that are separated as magnets, for example, using an air gap or using material (s) with high magnetic resistance. The case most conveniently defines the chamber in which the first and second magnets are located. The camera may have open ends or, more preferably, be closed by a camera. The closing elements of the chamber are suitably used to close the chamber.

In another embodiment, the body is designed as a unitary construction of a separate piece of material. In this embodiment, it is preferable that there are two housing parts having a reduced cross-sectional area so that the housing acts as two passive poles. On the other hand, parts of the body can be processed so that they become non-magnetic, which causes the body to act as two passive poles.

The housing is preferably made of a material having a low magnetic resistance. Mild steel, iron or permalloy are examples of suitable materials for the hull.

The housing most preferably includes a pair of passive poles. The intensity of an external magnetic field can be made maximum by giving the passive poles of such a shape that they reflect the magnetic field around the perimeter of the first and second permanent magnets.

The first and second magnets are preferably substantially disk-shaped. Most preferably, the first and second magnets are substantially cylindrical in shape, and the height of the cylinder is less than the diameter of the cylinder. It should be noted that the first and second magnets do not have to be exact cylinders, and that weak deviations from a circular cross section are also within the scope of the present invention. The height of the magnets can vary over a wide range, and the ratio of diameter to height can also vary over a wide range.

The first and second magnets are also preferably diametrically magnetized. This means that the north pole region is separated by the diameter of the cylindrical surface of the magnet from the south pole region. Both regions of the north and south poles exist on the upper and lower, essentially round ends of the magnet and pass through the length or height of the magnet.

As mentioned earlier, it is preferable that one magnet is fixed in the housing, and the other magnet can rotate in the housing. It is particularly preferable that the rotatable magnet can rotate around the center point of its substantially round ends. In this embodiment, the requirement of a high clearance between the inner walls of the case and the rotatable magnet does not arise. In this embodiment, the shape of the body of rotation of the rotatable magnet is the same as the shape of the magnet itself (i.e., substantially circular when viewed from above), and

- 3 008491 Thus, the magnet can rotate and even maintain its position relative to the walls of the housing.

The actuating device for driving the magnets relative to each other preferably comprises a handle or a button associated with one of the magnets. A handle or button can be connected to one of the magnets using one or more intermediate connections.

The handle or button can rotate manually, due to the electric drive, pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, due to the expansion action of the bimetallic strip or, indeed, at the expense of any other suitable method.

As mentioned above, the housing preferably includes two passive poles, and it is also preferable that one magnet be fixed in the housing. In this particularly preferred embodiment, one magnet is fixed in place in such a way that the tips of the poles are permanently on. It should also be noted that in some embodiments of the present invention, both the magnet can rotate.

The permanent magnets in the present invention may be of any suitable type. The most preferred currently are rare earth magnets, since they can create a strong magnetic field. Such magnets also have high coercivity, which means they resist demagnetization. It is envisaged that the technology of creating permanent magnets will continue to develop, and it is likely that in the future more powerful magnets will become available that will become suitable for use in the present invention.

The first and second magnets can be essentially identical to each other.

On the other hand, the first and second magnets may have different magnetic properties. Magnets can have the same or different physical dimensions with respect to each other. A change in the magnetic properties or physical dimensions of the first and second magnets may be used in some embodiments of the invention to change the magnetic switching properties.

Switchable magnetic devices may, but not necessarily, include a protection lock from an unreasonably acting operator or a device for tracking an unreasonably acting operator in the switching device, such that some additional user manipulations are required before the magnets can be rotated. For example, the enabling device may comprise a button that must be pressed down before the rotational force applied to the button can be transmitted to the magnet (s). Other devices that will be apparent to a qualified technician can also be easily applied.

An embodiment of the present invention can also be used to create acceleration at short distances in space due to interaction with the Earth’s or another planet’s magnetosphere and / or attraction / repulsion with ferromagnetic materials in a spacecraft. Astronauts can use this acceleration for spacewalks or in emergency situations. To increase the distance of attraction or repulsion on the spacecraft, a second switchable permanent magnet can be installed.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a system is created for controlling the orientation of a satellite in an orbit around a planet having its own magnetic field, said system including at least one switchable magnetic device mounted on the satellite so that the orientation of at least one switchable magnetic device may vary relative to the satellite, where, when used, the orientation of the satellite may vary due to the deviation of the magnetic axis of the switched magnetic device with respect to the direction of the magnetic field of the planet, when the magnets are located in the second position, which causes the satellite to at least partially change the orientation when the magnetic axis is re-aligned with at least one switchable magnetic device with the direction of the magnetic field of the planet.

At least one switchable magnetic device can be mounted on the lever arm on the satellite.

Preferably, the system, as indicated in the claims, includes a plurality of switchable magnetic devices arranged in pairs, in which each pair of switchable magnetic devices acts together to control the orientation of the satellite around one axis. More preferably, the system includes at least two pairs of switchable magnetic devices. The system may include at least three pairs of switchable magnetic devices, where the respective axes of the pairs of switchable magnetic devices are mutually orthogonal.

One or more switchable magnetic devices may selectively change the state between on or off for periodic satellite reorientation. During the launch and / or commissioning of a satellite, at least one switchable magnetic device may advantageously be turned off.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a device is created for collecting ferromagnetic products, said device comprising a ferromagnetic collection part designed to collect and leave ferromagnetic products due to their magnetic

- 4 008491 attraction, and the part for contact with the surface, which is designed to use contact with the ferromagnetic surface of the base, opposite which the device is held, and the specified device also includes at least one switchable magnetic device, which switches between the " off ", in which the part for collecting ferromagnetic products is essentially demagnetized, and the" on "position, in which the external magnetic field of the switched magnetic device is magnetized t part used to collect, in order to collect and leave the ferromagnetic products in contact with the part that is used to collect, or in close proximity to it, and holds the device against the ferromagnetic surface of the base using magnetic attraction.

Preferably, when the switchable magnetic device is in the “off” position, the magnetic attraction between the ferromagnetic product collection part and the ferromagnetic product and the magnetic device switched and the surface of the base is negligible.

The device, in addition, may contain an enablement device designed to switch the switched magnetic device between the on and off positions.

In a preferred embodiment, the device also includes at least one ferromagnetic shunt located between the switchable magnetic device and the part used to collect the ferromagnetic products, which is magnetized preferably in relation to the part for collecting the ferromagnetic products when the switchable magnetic device is in position "Off", thereby effectively preventing the magnetization of the part to collect ferromagnetic products, when the switchable magnetic device on "Off" position oditsya. The ferromagnetic shunt is preferably magnetically unsaturated when the switchable magnetic device is in the "off" position, but it is magnetically saturated when the switchable magnetic device is in the first position turned on. In addition, the device may include a region with high magnetic resistance between the switched magnetic device and the part for contact with the surface, where the area with high magnetic resistance has a resistance sufficient for the magnetic flux on the part for contact with the surface to be substantially independent from the magnetic properties of the base surface.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a switchable magnetic device is designed to operatively connect one or more functional modules adapted to provide or limit the functionality of the switchable magnetic device.

One or more functional modules may include one or more of the following types of modules:

a rotation limiting module, which limits the relative rotation of the magnets of a switching magnetic device to a specified angular range, a bias module designed to bias the relative rotation of the magnets of a switchable magnetic device, a locking module designed to detach the relative orientation of the magnets of the switchable magnetic device.

The locking module is preferably designed so that, with the possibility of a connector, to fix the magnets of the switchable magnetic device in one or more predetermined relative orientations.

Preferably, the switchable magnetic device further comprises switching devices designed to cause relative movement of the magnets, where the switching devices are also designed to come into contact, at least using one of these functional modules for controlling switchable magnetic device functionality.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a gripping device is created that is designed to capture a surface, said gripping device comprising at least one gripping device of the type that has an evacuated air cavity adapted for tight contact with the surface, and gripping device captures the surface due to the formation of a suction force between the surface and the exciting device due to partial pumping of air from the cavity, where the specified exciting device, in addition, includes at least one switchable magnetic device designed to create additional magnetic contact with the surface when the surface is ferromagnetic.

Preferably, when the gripping device is in tight contact with the surface, at least one said switching magnetic device is in contact with or in close proximity to the surface.

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When using a magnetic contact of at least one switchable magnetic device, it acts to at least partially restore the sealed contact of the gripping device with the surface if the sealed contact is partially or completely broken.

The gripping device may comprise an enabling means for switching a switchable magnetic device between the on and off positions to ensure that the gripping device is attached to or detached from the surface, respectively.

The gripping device may also include one or more magnetic field extension devices that provide a magnetic circuit with a relatively high magnetic permeability, essentially to bring the external magnetic field of the switchable magnetic device to a ferromagnetic surface to increase magnetic attraction. A gripping device may also include a plurality of gripping devices or switchable magnetic devices.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a switchable magnetic device is created that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets rotate relative to each other between the “off” position "In which the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the" on "position, in which the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, distinguishing Because the device also contains a low magnetic resistance shunt attached at least to the first part of the housing, designed to be at least partially magnetized when the device is in the “off” position, so that the external The magnetic field created by the device near the first part of the body is negligible, and the device also includes an area with high magnetic resistance between the magnets and a part of the external surface of the device, where the area with high agnitnym resistance has sufficient magnetic resistance, so that the magnetic flux generated on said portion of the outer surface of the device is substantially constant.

Preferably, the shunt is almost magnetically saturated due to the external magnetic field of the switchable magnetic device when the switchable magnetic device is in the "off" position. The shunt is preferably ferromagnetic.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a switchable magnetic device is created that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets rotate relative to each other between the “off” position in which the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field and in the "on" position, in which the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, characterized by Because the device also contains a low magnetic resistance shunt attached at least to the first part of the housing, designed to be at least partially magnetized when the device is in the “off” position, so that the external The magnetic field created by the device near the first part of the body is negligible.

In these aspects of the invention, the shunt is designed so that when the device is in the "on" position, the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field near the shunt. The shunt is preferably separated from the magnets by an air gap. More preferably, the shunt is magnetically unsaturated when the switchable magnetic device is in the “off” position, but it is magnetically saturated when the switchable magnetic device is in the “on” position.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a switchable magnetic device is created that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets rotate relative to each other between the “off” position in which the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the "on" position, in which the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, distinguishing The fact that the device also includes a region with high magnetic resistance between the magnets and a part of the outer surface of the device, where the region with high magnetic resistance has sufficient magnetic resistance, so that the magnetic flux generated on said part of the outer surface of the device is essentially is permanent. An area with high magnetic resistance may be an air gap.

A region with high magnetic resistance can be formed using any known method, including creating an outer shell surrounding the housing, defining a region with high magnetic resistance, a separator fixed on the outside of the housing, a cavity in the housing, a gap or a non-magnetic separator between the magnets and the housing.

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In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an electrical connecting device is created that is designed to make electrical connection with an external conductor, said connecting device including at least one contact portion that is designed to make electrical connection and a switchable magnetic device designed so so that the contact part remains in contact with the external conductor when the switchable magnetic device finds "On" I position.

Preferably, the contact portion is attached to the housing of the switchable magnetic device. The contact part can be made integral with the casing of the switchable magnetic device. Electrical connecting device may include two or more contact parts. Preferably, the connecting device further includes an electrical conductive circuit between said two or more contact portions. The connecting device may also include a device for receiving a cable adapted to receive an electrical conductive cable and make contact with it.

The electrical connection device preferably also includes an actuating device adapted to bring relative to each other the magnets of the switchable magnetic device between the on and off states in order to enable the electrical connecting devices to be selectively connected and disconnected.

In a preferred embodiment, the connecting device further includes an electrical switching device designed to selectively enable or prevent electric current to flow through the connecting device.

The switching devices can be connected to electrical switching devices in such a way that the electric current is not allowed to pass through the connecting device when the switched magnetic device is in the "off" position. The electrical connection device may also include electrical isolation devices.

The connecting device may advantageously be designed to be earthed for welding.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a switchable magnetic device is created that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being fixed inside the housing so that the first and second magnets rotate relative to each other between the “off” position in which the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the "on" position, in which the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, distinguishing Esja fact that the relative orientation of the first and second magnets can be varied between the "on" and "off" for an external magnetic field of varying intensity.

The relative orientation of the first and second magnets may preferably vary continuously between the on and off positions. The relative orientation of the first and second magnets may also change with an increase between the on and off positions.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a particle deflecting device is created adapted to deflect charged particles moving beyond the deflecting device, said deflecting device comprising a switchable magnetic device designed to generate an external magnetic field to deflect said particles.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a connecting channel for fluids is created, designed to make a connection between the first fluid hole and the second fluid hole, characterized in that the connecting duct also includes at least one switchable magnetic device designed to leave openings for fluids connected to each other when the switchable magnetic device is in the "on" position ".

The connecting channel for fluids, in addition, may contain an enabling device adapted to bring the magnets of the switchable magnetic device into rotation relative to each other between the on and off states in order to enable the connecting channel for fluid to selectively connect and disconnect n The fluid path may also include a flow control device designed to control the flow of fluid between the first and second fluid ports. The turn-on fixture is preferably connected to the flow control fixture so that the flow cannot pass if the switched magnetic device is in the off position.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a suspension device is provided having a first element suspended with respect to a second element, which includes a first magnetic device associated with the first element and a second magnetic device associated with the second element, characterized in that said or first or the second magnetic device includes a switchable magnetic device.

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The first and second magnetic devices may be located so as to repel each other when said switched magnetic device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field. On the other hand, the first and second magnetic devices can be positioned so that they are attracted to each other when the said switchable magnetic device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field. In this case, the first and second magnetic devices can be arranged so that they are attracted to each other, when the specified switchable magnetic device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field.

The pendant magnetic device may also include a damping device comprising an electrically conductive part connected to the first or second element so that the relative movement of the first and second elements causes the conductive part to move in a magnetic field generated by the first or second magnetic device.

The first and second elements may preferably slide relative to each other. The first magnetic device and / or the second magnetic device may include a switchable magnetic device.

When used, the external magnetic field of the switchable magnetic device may preferably be changed to change the separation of the first and second elements when suspended.

Suspension device may preferably contain a shock absorber or damper.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a magnetic braking device is created in which the movement of the conductive element with respect to the magnetic device can be reduced by applying a magnetic force to the conductive element, characterized in that the magnetic device includes a switchable magnetic device.

Preferably, when used, the external magnetic field of the switchable magnetic device may vary between a relatively low level and a high level so as to vary the degree of reduction of the relative movement of the conductive element and the magnetic device.

In a preferred embodiment, the switchable magnetic device also includes a display device for displaying the relative orientation of the magnets. In use, if the switchable magnetic device is forcibly removed from an external magnetic field, the display device can indicate the relative orientation of the magnets before the device is removed. The display device may include an inclusive device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Despite other forms that may be included in the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below with examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which FIG. 1A shows a relative force versus angular displacement plot depicting internal forces acting on a device as a function of the angular displacement of the magnets relative to each other in the absence of an external magnetic circuit;

FIG. 1B is a graph similar to that of FIG. 1A, but depicted in the presence of an external magnetic circuit;

FIG. 2 shows a graph similar to that of FIG. 3, for a switchable magnetic device used as a sample, depicting a relative force depending on the angular displacement for a range of distances from an external magnetic circuit;

FIG. 3 shows the graphs of FIG. 1 and 2 superimposed on each other with an explanation of the operation of the device in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 4A shows the forces required to explain how the device operates in accordance with the second and third aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 5A is a reproduction of FIG. 2 of the concurrently pending international patent application PCT / AiO0 / 01505, showing one basic design of a switchable magnetic device;

FIG. 5B is a rear view of a device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, showing an alternative shape for pole pieces;

FIG. 6 is a top view partially in cross section of a switchable magnetic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 shows a top view of a switchable magnetic device for use in the second and third aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional top view of an embodiment of the invention, wherein a rotation-sensitive lever is used as the enabling device;

FIG. 9 illustrates the forces included in the circuit that maintains operability in case of failure of individual elements, which is implemented in the present invention;

FIG. 10 shows the relationship between the angle of rotation and the external magnetic field in a device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

- 8 008491 of FIG. 11A shows a collection pallet using a switchable magnetic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11B shows a sectional view of the main part of the collection pan in FIG. 11 A;

FIG. 12 shows an exemplary embodiment of a satellite orientation control system that includes a switchable magnetic device;

FIG. 13A and 13B show embodiments of a combined vacuum / magnetic holder comprising a switchable magnetic device;

FIG. 14 shows a switchable magnetic device having a modular construction;

FIG. 15 shows a schematic sectional view of a tunable suspension device using a switchable magnetic device;

FIG. 16 shows a first embodiment of tunable braking systems using a switchable magnetic device;

FIG. 17 shows a second embodiment of a tunable braking system using a switchable magnetic device.

Detailed description

It should be noted that the accompanying drawings show preferred embodiments of the present invention. These drawings have been made to illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention, and the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the specific embodiments that are shown.

The force required to switch a magnetic device from the “off” position to the “on” position changes as the magnetic permeability of the external magnetic circuit changes. In particular, it was found that the force required to switch a device from the “off” position to the “on” position when there is no external magnetic circuit is much greater than the force required to switch the device to the “on” position when there is external magnetic circuit. An external magnetic circuit with a high magnetic permeability can exist, for example, when the device is in contact or in close proximity to an external ferromagnetic material. FIG. 1A depicts a graph of the relative force required to rotate the switching device of a switchable magnetic device described in the concurrently pending international patent application PCT / Ai00 / 01505, depending on the angular displacement. As can be seen from FIG. 1A, the force required to switch the device to the “on” position (which is shown at an angular displacement of 180 ° in the graph of FIG. 1A) is significant if the external magnetic permeability is low. This is due to the significant magnitude of the internal magnetic field strength of the device, when there is no external magnetic circuit with high magnetic permeability. Thus, work must be done to overcome the resistance created by this internal magnetic field. The rotation of the magnets to the “on” position, which corresponds to an angle of 180 ° in FIG. 1A, converts mechanical energy into magnetic potential energy, which is stored in a repulsive field with a high flux density between the poles.

FIG. 1B depicts the same graph as FIG. 1A, but with a switchable magnetic device in the presence of an external magnetic circuit with high magnetic permeability. This can be achieved, for example, by placing the device in contact with or in close proximity to an external ferromagnetic material, as happens if the magnet is attached to an external iron load. As can be seen from FIG. 1B, although the general form of the graph is similar to that of FIG. 1A, the relative force required to bias the magnets between the “off” and “on” positions is much lower than when there is no external magnetic circuit with high magnetic permeability. The force that is required to move the magnets between the “off” and “on” positions in FIG. 1B, less than in FIG. 1A, because the high magnetic permeability of the external magnetic circuit causes the magnetic flux to find a simpler, external path that diverts a portion of the magnetic flux from the region between the repelling poles.

In both FIG. 1A and 1B, the angular displacement force attempts to return the magnets to an orientation of 0 or 360 ° (i.e., the “fully off” position), excluding the 180 ° position (i.e., the “fully on” position), in which clockwise forces the arrow and counterclockwise, keep the balance, despite unstable or quasistable equilibrium.

FIG. 2 depicts a series of graphs of relative strength, which is required to rotate an actuating device serving as a sample of a switchable magnetic device, shown as a function of angular displacement. Each individual plot represents a turning force when the switchable magnetic device is at a certain distance separating it from the ferromagnetic base. Graph 2001 shows the angle of force as a function of the angular displacement when the switchable magnetic device is not loaded, i.e. it is not in close proximity to the ferromagnetic surface. Graph 2002 shows the force depending on the angular displacement when the switchable magnetic device is at a distance of 3.5 mm from the external magnetic product. Charts 2003, 2004 and 2005 show the force depending on the angular displacement,

- 9 008491 when the switchable magnetic device is at a distance of 2, 0.5 and 0.1 mm, respectively, from the magnetic circuit. Graph 2006 shows the force versus angular displacement when the switchable magnetic device is in contact with the ferromagnetic material. As can be seen from these graphs, since the switchable magnetic device is placed closer to the external ferromagnetic product, the force required to rotate the magnets of the switchable magnetic device is significantly reduced. When a switchable magnetic device is in contact with an external ferromagnetic circuit, the maximum force that is required to rotate the magnets between the “off” position (0 °) and the “on” position (180 °) is less than 20% of the maximum force that is required when the switchable magnetic device is not loaded.

Since the force acting on the magnets is always (except when the magnets are in the equilibrium position at 180 °) trying to return the magnets to the off position (0 or 360 °), any work done to turn the magnets to the on position , returns when the magnets return to the off position.

The magnetic device includes a bias device, operatively connected with the magnets, to bias the magnets away from the “fully off” position. As described above, when a switched magnetic device does not have an external magnetic circuit, for example, when the device is not in contact with or in close proximity to the external ferromagnetic material, the force required to shift the device from the off position to the on position is relatively large. The biasing device is positioned in such a way that it applies a rotational force to the magnets, the value of which is less than the maximum force that is required to move the switching device to the on position in the absence of an external magnetic circuit, but which is sufficient to move the switching device to "Included" in the presence of an external magnetic circuit. As a result, when the device is in close proximity to or in direct contact with the external ferromagnetic material, the device automatically switches to the on position. Thus, it can be said that the device, in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, has the property of "automatic inclusion".

In the device, the biasing device acts to keep the switching device on from going to the “completely off” position. For example, a bias device may apply a force P, as shown in FIG. 3, which shifts the switching device backward, from the 0 ° position or the “fully off” position when there is no external magnetic circuit. In the example of FIG. 3, the bias force P applied by the biasing device keeps the switching device on at a position of approximately 30 ° from the “fully off” position when there is no external magnetic circuit. When the external magnetic circuit is closed, the force P is greater than the force P1 that is required to move the magnets, and therefore the device automatically moves to the on position. In other words, the bias device applies a rotational force P to the magnets. In the absence of an external magnetic circuit (plot 31), the maximum force P2 is required to move the device to the “on” position. Since P is smaller than P2, the device does not move to the “on” position in the absence of an external magnetic circuit. However, once the external magnetic circuit is in place (plot 32), the maximum force that must be applied to move to the on position is reduced to P1. Since the force P generated by the biasing device is greater than P1, the device automatically moves to the “on” position when the external magnetic circuit is completed.

Again with reference to FIG. 2, the bias device, which applies a force of approximately 2 Newtons, should not turn the magnets in the on position when the switchable magnetic device is not loaded, but should turn the magnets in the on position if the switchable magnetic device is located less than 0, 1 mm from an external ferromagnetic product or is in direct contact with it. In this embodiment, the Newtonian force 2 applied by the biasing device must cause the magnets to remain with a relative orientation of approximately 35 ° when the switchable magnetic device is not loaded.

The switchable magnetic device can be described as including the “automatic shutdown” property, where the device is automatically turned off if an external magnetic circuit is removed, for example, when the device is forcibly removed from the external ferromagnetic material. In general terms, the “auto power off” property is achieved by preventing the magnets from turning to the “fully on” position. This action can be explained with reference to FIG. 4A, which is a graph of angular displacement versus relative strength, together with FIG. 6 and 7. Graph A shows the force for the case when there is no external magnetic circuit, and Graph B shows the force for the case when there is an external magnetic circuit.

In order for the device to work in automatic shutdown mode, the internal friction of the device can be used or a special locking device can be used with

- 10 008491 manual correction. The recovery feature is enabled if the external magnetic circuit is interrupted.

FIG. 4 illustrates the applied forces for an embodiment of a design with automatic shutdown based on the internal friction of the device. It is assumed that the device switches to the "on" position, i.e. 175 ° (Fig. 7), i.e. it is not in a quasi-equilibrium position at 180 °, and that the device is in contact with an external magnetic circuit, such as a ferromagnetic material, or in close proximity to it. Graph B represents the repulsive rotational force caused by magnetic repulsion between the magnets in this position. In this configuration, there is a reverse force (Fig. 4A), acting so as to turn the magnets to the "off" position. The internal friction for the 175 ° position is shown as X. This friction force resists repulsive magnetic force ^, and since the friction force is greater than the force ^, the switch remains at the position of 175 ° until the external magnetic circuit with high magnetic permeability is in place. If the external magnetic permeability of the magnetic circuit is destroyed, the repulsive force between the magnets becomes as shown in plot A, and the repulsive force becomes Υ, which is greater than X. As a result, the movable magnet goes to the off position until , until the repulsive magnetic force of graph A and the friction force are in equilibrium at Ζ.

While the friction line is shown in FIG. 4 as a straight line, the friction force can change during rotation due to, for example, the effect of a change in the magnetic interaction between the magnets as the position changes. Other factors besides friction (such as the inertia of the magnets) can also make the device in the “on” position with an external magnetic circuit.

When more or more precise control of the auto-shutdown property is required, a locking mechanism with unblocking that occurs during magnetic repulsion can be used (graph A). One embodiment of such a lock is similar to a door lock provided with a spring triangular in cross section, with a perpendicular "leading" edge in the direction of rotation and an inclined closing edge. A spring-loaded lock can engage with a suitable groove at a desired angle of rotation (eg, 175 °) on another part of the magnets moving relative to each other or their respective carriers. Spring stretching can be adjusted to control the automatic shutdown force, while at the same time creating a more predictable locking force.

The switchable magnetic device has the property of automatic switching on and automatic switching off. Preferably, the automatic on feature is similar to the first aspect of the present invention, and the automatic off feature is similar to either the second or third aspect of the present invention.

The biasing device may be operatively associated with the incorporating device, preferably comprising one or more springs. On the other hand, a bias device may include devices that are affected by air pressure, pneumatic devices, a bimetallic spring, or indeed any other suitable device for applying a bias force.

Preferably, the biasing device applies a biasing force so that the first and second magnets are displaced by approximately 10 to 60 °, more preferably from 20 to 40 °, most preferably approximately 30 ° from the “fully off” position when there is no external magnetic circuit.

Rotation-limiting devices may include deactivating devices to prevent the enabling device to rotate to the fully on position. On the other hand, the rotation-limiting devices may include switching devices that are in mutual contact with one or two first and second magnets to prevent the first and / or second magnet from turning to the “fully on” position. In this embodiment, the switching devices may comprise a sliding element that allows engagement, which moves within a groove formed in the surface of one of the magnets when the groove moves to align with the sliding element as the magnet turns to the on position. When the magnet is turned back to the “off” position, an inclined or conical surface can be created in order to allow the slide-out member to engage the slot in the magnet.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the main device described in concurrently pending international patent application PCT / AI00 / 01505 and application I809 / 951905 includes a first magnet 10 and a second magnet 11. Both magnets 10 and 11 are generally disk-shaped and similar to magnet 1, as shown in FIG. 1 of the application PCT / AI00 / 01505. The magnets 10, 11 are located in the housing, which is formed by pole pieces 12, 13. Pole tips 12, 13 are preferably made of a material that is ferromagnetic, with low magnetic resistance. Pole tips 12, 13 are arranged so that they hold with fixing the lower magnet 10 in fixed

- 11 008491 position. The upper magnet 11, however, is able to rotate inside the case formed by the pole pieces 12, 13.

In order to facilitate the rotation of the upper magnet 11, the magnet 11 is made with notches or grooves 14, 15 along its vertical side walls. These recesses or grooves 14, 15 accept the downward arms 16, 17 of the rod 18. The rod 18 can be placed inside the groove 19 formed on the platform 20. The platform 20 is connected to a short rod 21, which, in turn, is rigidly attached to the holder or the handle 22. With this device, the rotation of the holder or the handle 22 causes the rotation of the second magnet 11. It should be noted that the second magnet 11 rotates essentially around its center point.

The device also includes a top cover 23, which is rigidly attached to the housing formed by pole pieces 12 and 13. The cover 23 seals the upper body formed by pole tips 12, 13. It should be noted that the pad 20 passes through a hole in the top cover 23 , and that the sealing element 24 contributes to the formation of a waterproof and dustproof sealing layer around the opening.

In the device shown in FIG. 5A, the lower surface of the lower magnet 10 formed a portion of the lower surface of the device. The bottom surface of the bottom magnet 10 can be positioned so that it lies essentially adjacent to the bottom surfaces of the respective pole pieces 12, 13. The bottom surface of the device can be created using a bottom cover (not shown). Preferably, the device is substantially sealed so that it is substantially protected from moisture and dust. This allows the device to be used in harsh environmental conditions, such as conditions with a high content of dust, moisture or even under immersion conditions.

As shown in FIG. 6, which shows a switchable magnetic device, the main device of FIG. 6 is generally similar to the device shown in FIG. 5, and similar features are noted using similar numeric references. It should be noted that other embodiments of the invention may provide a feature of automatic activation or feature of automatic switching off of a switched magnetic device.

In addition to the features shown in FIG. 5A, the device of FIG. 6 also includes a bias spring 30 in the form of a helical spring connected at one end 31 to a pole 13 and at its inner end to a rod 21 of a handle. The twisted spring 30 biases the shaft 21 of the handle in such a way that when there is no external magnetic circuit, the shaft 21 of the handle and, therefore, the upper rotatable magnet is held in the offset position by an angle α ₃ , approximately equal to 30 °, from the “completely off” position. The “fully off” position is shown at 32. The presence of an external magnetic circuit with high magnetic resistance leads to a balance between the force created by the bias spring 30, which attempts to turn the device to the “on” position, and the resistance of the internal magnetic field opposing this force. This leads to the fact that the device takes a stable state of readiness. Connecting an external magnetic circuit with a magnetic circuit with a sufficiently low magnetic resistance will reduce the internal magnetic field, and the force created by the bias spring will now be sufficient to switch the device to the on position.

In the installation shown in FIG. 6, the device can be supplied with a switching element 33, whose location corresponds to an arrangement of up to 180 °, say, 175 °. The switching element 33 can be as simple as a protrusion going upwards from the upper surface of the pole piece 12 of the device, which engages with it as the handle 22 turns to the “fully on” position. The switching element 33 prevents the handle 22 from turning to the “fully on” position. Preferably, the handle 22 has the ability to turn to a position close to but not equal to 180 °, which allows the device to almost, but not completely, go to the “fully on” state. In this case, the device will automatically return to a state with a weak external field if the external magnetic circuit is forcibly removed, as described above. While the low magnetic resistance external magnetic circuit is in place, internal friction can be significant for keeping the magnets in the on position, as discussed with reference to FIG. 4a.

In an alternative version, it is possible to allow the handle 22 to rotate to a position greater than 180 ° to the switching element (not shown), say at 185 °. When the handle 22 is rotated so that it is opposite the switching element, the internal magnetic field will move the movable magnet opposite the switching element. Thus, the device will remain in the “fully on” position if the external magnetic circuit is forcibly removed. This can be considered the equivalent of a “center” magnetic switch.

In some cases, it may be desirable to ensure that the magnetic resistance of the external magnetic circuit is low enough to reduce the force needed to turn on below a predetermined threshold, indicating that a given part of the flow was deflected through an external magnet.

- 12 008491 circuit before allowing the switched magnetic device to switch to the “on” position. This arrangement is explained with reference to FIG. 8 and 9.

The holder may contain a rotation-sensitive handle that prevents rotation by an amount greater than the set used for a single magnet. As described above, when there is no external load applied to the device, a large force is required to switch the device between active and inactive states. The use of a rotary-sensitive handle as part of an actuating device can cause the device to switch between active and inactive states if it is not possible if there is not enough external magnetic circuit. This feature can be used as a reliability feature to prevent attempts to connect to an object when a magnetic connection with an object is insufficient to safely move an object.

In the first device of the rotation-limiting switch, a rotating mechanism, such as a holder or a handle, is connected to the movable magnet through a spring mechanism sensitive to rotation, as shown in FIG. 8. The required forces are shown in FIG. 4B. If the force required to exceed the magnetic repulsion force exceeds the threshold shown in FIG. 9, for example, as indicated by the designation V on graph C, this indicates that insufficient flow was deflected towards the external magnetic circuit or, in other words, the magnetic resistance of the external magnetic circuit was too high. When the force applied to the holder exceeds the threshold value, the device limiting the rotation can act as an idling device, allowing the handle to continue the rotation, but preventing the transfer of rotation to the movable magnet.

FIG. 8 shows a switchable magnetic device using a rotating handle as an attachment included. In this case, the shaft of the handle 21 is surrounded by an inner ring 40 and an outer ring 41. The inner ring 40 includes a groove for receiving the pointed end of the piston 42. The outer ring 41 includes a channel through which the piston 42 passes. The piston 42 is contained inside the outer shell 43. The piston 42 is loaded through the compression spring 44, which is located inside the shell 43 and passes between the piston 42 and the adjustable screw without the head 45. If an attempt is made to turn the handle 22 in the absence of an external magnetic circuit, the resistance to rotation causes my internal magnetic field device gives rise to a force applied to the handle 22 and greater than the existing value. This causes the thin end of the piston 42 to move out of the groove in the inner ring 40, and then the handle slips together with the outer ring, thus interrupting the flow to the inner ring, which is fixed relative to the axis. The upper magnet thus returns to the "off" position. In this way, a connection can be realized between the external magnetic circuit and the controlled switching function of the device.

FIG. 9 shows a switchable magnetic device in which the rotatable handle 22 is connected to the rotatable magnet through a flexible coupling element, such as a spring 50. The spring 50 is chosen in such a way that it does not deform significantly if the rotary handle 22 rotates when an external magnetic circuit is present, as in the case when the device is located on a ferromagnetic material. However, if the rotary knob 22 acts in the absence of an external magnetic circuit, the force required to rotate the magnet is much greater (see, for example, FIG. 1), and the spring 50 deforms. This leads to the rotation of the handle, which occurs due to the deformation of the spring 50, and, thus, the magnet does not rotate. Indeed, the rotating handle can be rotated far enough so that the spring 50 is completely deformed (or compressed), and, moreover, the rotation of the rotating handle 22 is converted into rotation of the magnet.

It should be noted that the diagrams of the dependence of force on the angular displacement, shown in FIG. 1A-4B were created to illustrate the principles included in the present invention. However, it should also be noted that the shape of the force versus angular displacement curves, shown in FIG. 1A-4B is not necessarily correct, and the actual shape of the curve may vary from what is shown.

As described above, the switchable magnetic device can be used in states intermediate between the “fully on” and “fully off” positions. FIG. 10 shows a similar relationship between the rotation angle and the change in the external magnetic field. The exact characteristics of the curve depend on the method of magnetization of the magnets in their physical form as well as on the shape of the poles (12, 13 Fig. 5A). A change in the ratio of the output magnetic energy of the magnetic disks 10, 11 can be achieved, moreover, by modifying the curve in FIG. 10 to fit the specific application.

A further increase in the intensity of the external magnetic field can be completed by forming the wall thickness of the pole pieces 12, 13 in such a way that they reflect the change in the magnetic field strength around the perimeter of the permanent magnetized disks 10, 11.

FIG. 5B shows the construction of pole pieces 12, 13, the shape of which corresponds to a change in field strength H around the perimeter of magnetic disks 10, 11. Applying the inverse square law for magnetic fields gives good results, but specific materials and applications

- 13 008491 tion affect the optimal shape of the pole. It has been found that the wall thickness of the poles can vary in different ways, including the following:

oval poles, where the wall thickness is a mathematical function of the field strength around the perimeter of the magnets;

oval poles, where the wall thickness is a mathematical function of the magnetic mass distribution of the magnets 10 and 11;

round pole tips, where the wall thickness is constant and the magnetic field strength is lower, but is the same around the perimeter.

FIG. 5B shows a switchable magnetic device having oval-shaped poles, which increases the external field strength to a maximum and helps to keep the device in place with an open magnetic circuit. Unclosed magnetic circuits occur in practice when there is an air gap between the bottom of the device and the surface to which it is attached, or when there is a non-magnetic material located between the surface to which the device is attached and the bottom of the device.

Preferably the poles have the smallest possible length. The poles form part of the magnetic circuit (together with the magnets) and have their own magnetic resistance, which leads to a loss of magnetic energy. Thus, minimizing the length of the poles minimizes the loss of magnetic energy and, therefore, maximizes the strength of the external field.

Embodiments of the present invention can be used as a switchable magnetic restraint. For example, the device can be used to attach to surfaces, especially metal surfaces. All sides of the switchable magnetic device can be used to attach to magnetic materials. However, since the intensity of the magnetic field changes in different positions around the body, the holding force generated at various points around the body will also change. In preferred embodiments, the surface to which the device is attached is located near or below the bottom surface of the lower magnet. In other embodiments of the surface to which the device is attached, is located near or near the side surfaces of the magnets. Thus, a preferred embodiment can be used, up to using the four sides of a switchable magnetic device.

As will be described further with reference to FIG. 11B, each of the four sides of a switchable magnetic device can be used in a “constant flow” device by creating a suitable air gap or path with a high magnetic resistance between the surface of the switchable magnetic device and the surface to which it is attached.

The present invention can advantageously be made in modular form. Therefore, the present invention further relates to a modular design for a switchable magnetic device and modules used in such a device.

A switchable magnetic device having a modular design will now be described with reference to FIG. 14. The basis of the modular switchable magnetic device 2000 is the switchable magnetic device 2010, such as described in connection with FIG. 5. On the module 2010 of the switchable magnetic device, the following modules are installed from bottom to top: a rotation-limiting module 2020, a spring module 2030, an operation type selection module 2040, and a trigger device 2070.

The rotation limiting module 2020 is adapted to limit the rotation of the rotatable magnet within a given angular range. Such a rotation restricting module 2020 may comprise a flat plate with a notch or hole that is adapted to receive a pin or stop mounted on the upper part of the rotating magnet of the switchable magnetic device 2010. The notch is shaped and sized such that the range of angular rotation of the rotating magnet is restricted by the allowed pin or a retainer inside a recess or hole. The rotation restricting module 2020 can limit the range of angular rotation of the rotatable magnet to 180 ° from the “fully off” position so that the user can easily rotate the switchable magnetic device to the “on” position due to fully rotating switching devices. On the other hand, the rotation restricting module 2020 may limit the range of angular rotation of the rotatable magnet to 185-190 ° from the “fully off” position to take advantage of the magnetic switch “through the center” of the switchable magnetic device as described above. The rotation restricting module 2020 may limit the range of the rotational rotation of the rotatable magnet to less than 180 ° from the “fully off” position, for example 170 °, to create an auto power off function as described above.

The spring module 2030 includes a housing having a rotatable part mounted therein, which is adapted to receive an axis including a switching device of a switching magnetic device 2010, and one or more biasing devices connected to the rotating part for

- 14 008491 offset axis fixture switchable magnetic device 2010. Thus, the spring module can operate with automatic inclusion.

Module 2040 type of operation includes two buttons 2050, 2060, which can be used to activate the functions of automatically turning on or automatically turning off the switching magnetic device 2010. Module 2040 type of operation can be used with the module, limiting the rotation, or without it, and it works for selective limitation of the limiting range of the angular rotation of a rotatable magnet to a certain predetermined range, when operation is ensured in the automatic off mode or switch through the center. Module 2040 type of operation can also be designed to interact with the spring module in order to give the opportunity to selectively stretch the bias device to a level above the threshold, to activate the automatic inclusion. The operation type selection module 2040 may also include locking devices for securing the enabling devices in certain predetermined positions, such as the on or off positions.

The modular design described provides significant manufacturing flexibility. In particular, a switchable magnetic device can be manufactured in large quantities, and suitable module (s) is added to it depending on the described application of the product. It should also be noted that modules with functionality other than that described above can be used.

As will be noted by qualified specialists, the features of the switchable magnetic device described here make it suitable for various applications where the switchable magnetic devices have not previously been used.

Therefore, cited as an example of the application of a switchable magnetic device, as described above, will now be described using a non-limiting example.

FIG. 11A shows a collection pallet 1000 using a switchable magnetic device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Such a collection pallet can be attached to the ferromagnetic surface 1050 of the base due to the magnetic field and used to collect ferromagnetic products.

This application uses magnetic fields on the top and bottom of the switchable magnetic device. The magnetic field at the bottom of the switchable magnetic device 1040 is used to hold the collecting pan on the surface 1050 of the base, while the magnetic field on the top of the switchable magnetic device 1040 is used to hold ferromagnetic products in the recess 1030 to collect the tray 1000.

FIG. 11B shows a sectional view of the main part 1020 of the collecting tray 1000. As seen in FIG. 11B, the body 1020 includes a switchable magnetic device 1040. The length and magnetic permeability of any external magnetic circuit attached to the collecting tray 1000, either in the form of products remaining in the tank 1010 or in the form of a ferromagnetic surface on which the tank is located, will act on the magnetic field generated by the switchable magnetic device. In this regard, it is desirable that the magnetic field, suitable for holding the pallet 1000 in relation to the surface 1050 of the base, is largely independent of the thickness and magnetic properties of the surface 1050 of the base. It is also desirable that, if the collecting pallet 1000 is turned on, the maximum possible magnetic field is available in the collecting recess 1030, and if the magnetic field is turned off, there is a minimum residual magnetization in the collecting recess 1030. A collection tray having these required magnetic qualities can be obtained by creating a shunt connection 1060 with high magnetic permeability in the air gap 1061 between the recess 1030 for collecting the tank 1010 and the upper surface of the switchable magnetic device 1040 and by creating a second larger air gap 1070 between the bottom surface of the switchable magnetic device 1040 and the surface 1050 of the base. A shunt connection 1060 with a residual field should have as low a magnetic resistance as possible. Ideally, the size of the shunt connection 1060 and the material for the shunt connection 1060 should be chosen so that the size is so small that any residual magnetic flux in the case that the switchable magnetic device 1040 is in the off position will almost saturate the shunt connection. Thus, when the switchable magnetic device 1040 switches to the on position, the shunt connection 1060 with the residual field becomes saturated and thus effectively becomes an air gap.

To ensure that the magnetic field is not exposed to the surface of the base, and therefore the magnetic field remains essentially constant magnetic flux regardless of the magnetic properties of the surface, and to ensure that the maximum field strength is present in the pallet tank 1030 for collection, it is preferable that the air gap 1061 was significantly less than the air gap 1070.

- 15 008491

The action of the collection pan is further improved due to the fact that when the switchable magnetic device 1040 is turned off, the magnetic field inside the collection cavity 1030 of the tank 1010 rotates and changes its direction. This helps to demagnetize the collected particles.

Another application of a switchable magnetic device is in a holding device, which can advantageously be used to grip surfaces with ferromagnetic properties, such as sheet metal, machine engine panels, refrigerators, etc. The preferred embodiment of the holding device is a combination of a suction cup or vacuum clamp and magnetic the holder. The holding device (holder) 1700, shown in FIG. 13, contains a deformable part with a border 1710, which is generally similar to that used in conventional suction cups or vacuum clamps, and a switchable magnetic device 1720, fixed centrally to the border 1710.

The deformable part with a border 1710 acts in the same way as in the suction cup of the prior art, and creates a suction force to the surface 1730 due to partial pumping of air from the inside of the cavity formed between the border 1710 and the surface 1730. Switched magnetic device 1720 generates magnetic attraction to the surface when it is turned on, and thereby acts to restore or maintain tightness between the deformable part with the curb 1710 and the surface, if the tightness is broken or partially violated. When the switchable magnetic device is turned off, the magnetic attraction between the switched magnetic device 1720 and the surface 1730 is removed, and the tightness can easily be broken in order to allow the holding device 1700 to be removed from the surface. Alternatively, a valve may be added in order to allow the suction pressure to be relieved. Preferably, the same switching device can be used to turn off the switched magnetic device 1720 and to remove the suction in the curb 1710.

A switchable magnetic device with an automatic switch on property will be particularly preferred in the present invention. If such a switchable magnetic device is used, the user can simply move the holder on the surface to attach the holder. Due to the movement of the holder, air will be pumped out of the cavity behind the curb to create a suction force, and also turn on a switchable magnetic device to generate a magnetic holding force.

FIG. 13B shows an alternative embodiment of the restraint (holder) 1701, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 13A. Similar parts have similar numerical designations. The difference between the two implementation options is only the addition of a sufficiently rigid support shell 1740 to the embodiment of FIG. 13B. The support shell can be made of plastic material and can be used to provide additional stability and prevent the holder from rocking, which can cause a leakage between the curb 1710 and the surface 1730. However, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the support shell includes at least two parts, for example 1750, which are made of ferromagnetic material that extend from a position adjacent to a switchable magnetic device to the peripheral edge of the 1760 sheath ki 1740 and act as extenders of the magnetic pole. Preferably, the ferromagnetic portions of the shell 1740 are arranged so that they come into contact with the surface with which the holder 1700 comes in contact when a suction force and a magnetic force are applied. Therefore, since the magnetic pole extenders must be closer to the surface than the main body of the switched magnetic device 1720, the magnetic attraction between the holder 1700 and the surface increases.

Switched magnetic devices demonstrate advantages over permanent magnets for applications in which stray magnetic fields can cause damage, for example, in space and when used on satellites. Since the switched magnetic devices can be switched to the “off” state, in which the external magnetic field given by the device is minimal, the chances of the mutual influence of the switched magnetic device and the launched spacecraft or satellite systems are reduced.

Many switchable magnetic devices can be used to control the orientation of a satellite in orbit around a planet. An orientation control system (OS8) for a satellite that uses at least one pair of switchable magnetic devices, and a method for controlling such a satellite will now be described in connection with FIG. 12.

The OS8 system shown in FIG. 12 includes three pairs of 1610, 1620, 1630 switchable magnetic devices, which are installed on the satellite and controlled by a satellite control system. Each pair of 1610, 1620, 1630 switchable magnetic devices interacts with the planet’s magnetosphere and is used to control the orientation of the satellite in the same plane, this is achieved in a manner similar to that used for the compass needle. Switched magnetic devices 1610, 1620, 1630 are mounted on the satellite so that they can rotate and are controlled using control devices together with their twins to select the direction of rotation

- 16 008491 satellite during reorientation. Each pair of switchable magnetic devices controls the orientation of the satellite in the same plane.

When switched magnetic devices of the same pair turn on, they will try to combine the satellite axis with an external magnetic field. And, when they are turned off, further rotational movement will not be applied to the satellite. Thus, by selectively changing the orientation of the magnets of the switched magnetic devices between the on and off positions (inclusive), a change in the external magnetic field is generated, and by changing their orientation relative to the satellite, the satellite orientation can be changed in 3 directions.

A switchable magnetic device can also be used to create a magnetic field to deflect electrically charged or magnetic particles. The degree of deviation can be adjusted by changing the external magnetic field created by the switchable magnetic device, by changing the relative orientation of the magnets of the switchable magnetic device (as described in connection with Fig. 10).

For example, a magnetic field can be used to deflect charged particles away from the space around a spacecraft or satellite, just as the magnetosphere deflects particles from space around the Earth. The switched magnetic device can be fixed on the “upper” end of a spacecraft or satellite, it switches to the “on” position to generate a strong external magnetic field that will interact with the displacement of charged particles or magnetic particles to deflect them and prevent collisions with the spacecraft. As described above, since the switchable magnetic device can switch to the “on” or “off” position, when required, the mutual influence of the device and the satellite, as well as the spacecraft systems can be minimized.

The interaction between the switched magnetic device and the magnetosphere can also be used to create acceleration at short distances in space, for example, to position or return astronaut back into space.

Other applications of switchable magnetic devices may also be developed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. For example, one or more switchable magnetic devices can be used to protect couplings when transmitting liquids or gases through them. In such an application, a switchable magnetic device having the property of automatic activation is particularly preferred since it does not require an operator performing the connection for any additional step associated with providing protection with a magnet.

The switchable magnetic device can also be used as an electrical coupling device for welding or the like. When used, the magnet can be used to keep the processed products, which are welded, and to create an electrical connection between the welding fixture and the workpiece. Preferably, the housing, which contains magnets, is additionally used to form an electrical connection between the power source and the metal that is welded. Preferably, a switchable magnetic device using magnets based on rare-earth elements is used in welding. Magnets based on rare earth elements have a high coercivity and, therefore, will not be demagnetized at high electric currents, just as is the case with such use.

FIG. 15 shows a sectional view of a tunable suspension system using a switchable magnetic device. The system 2500 includes a piston mounted so that it can move back and forth inside the cylinder 2520. At the lower end of the piston 2510 a permanent magnet 2515 is mounted. orientation of the magnets of the switched magnetic device 2525 to change the external magnetic field created by the switchable magnetic device 2525. The magnet 2515 fixed to the end of the piston 2510 and The switchable magnetic device 2525 is oriented such that when the switched magnetic device is turned on, they will repel each other. Thus, when the switchable magnetic device is in the "on" position, the piston 2510 is suspended inside the cylinder 2520, and it is able to move up and down inside the cylinder. The repulsive force between the permanent magnet 2515 and the tunable magnetic device 2525 behaves like a spring, keeping the piston 2510 in a movable state.

As described above, the external magnetic field created by the switchable magnetic device 2525 changes depending on the degree of alignment of the orientation of the magnets of the switchable magnetic device 2525. This variable external field can be used to change the level of repulsion between the magnets 2515 and the switchable magnetic device 2525 and thus create a tunable suspension system. By increasing the intensity of the external field of the switched magnetic device, the equilibrium position of the piston 2510 moves upwards relative to the cylinder 2520, and, conversely, when the intensity of the external field of the switchable magnet decreases

- 17 008491 device 2525 equilibrium position of piston 2510 moves downward relative to cylinder 2520. The force required to move piston 2510 to switchable magnetic device 2525 also increases with increasing external magnetic field strength of switchable magnetic device.

In preferred embodiments of the suspension system, as described above, the piston 2510 includes a portion with high electrical conductivity located near its lower end. The high conductivity part may be made of copper or aluminum or another conductive material with high conductivity. The high conductivity part is designed to introduce a damping effect into the harness. Part of the piston 2510 with high electrical conductivity when moving inside the magnetic field created by the switchable magnetic device will create eddy currents in the part with high electrical conductivity of the piston 2510, which leads to a damping effect on the oscillations of the piston 2510 inside the cylinder 2520.

Qualified professionals will note that such a suspension system 2500, as described above, can advantageously be used instead of coil springs and hydraulic or pneumatic damping devices.

In addition, when the switchable magnetic device is turned to the “fully off” position, the magnet 2515 mounted on the piston 2510 is attracted to the part with the ferromagnetic pole 2526 of the switchable magnetic device 2525 and causes the suspension device to lock into the retracted position.

As will be noted by a qualified technician, the permanent magnet 2515 can be replaced by a second switchable magnetic device to create an additional possibility of rebuilding the suspension system and to prevent the suspended state from being fixed when the other switchable magnetic device is in the off position. The relative positions of the switchable magnetic device and the permanent magnet 2515 can mutually change. In addition, qualified specialists will note that a suspension system using one or more switchable magnetic devices does not need to be in the form of a piston and a cylinder, but may include any device where elements moved relative to each other may have counter-connected magnetic devices associated with them. .

FIG. 16 and 17 show two locations for creating a variable braking device using a switchable magnetic device. The arrangement shown in FIG. 22 and 23, is based on this principle: eddy currents will be induced in a body of conductive material moving with respect to a magnetic field, these eddy currents will lead to a braking effect in bodies moving relative to each other. The variability of an external magnetic field created by a switchable magnetic device can be advantageously used in a braking device based on eddy currents to obtain a variable braking force.

Referring now to FIG. 16, which shows a disk 2210 that has a switchable magnetic device 2220 mounted near its side surface. The disk 2210 rotates in the direction of the arrow 2211 with respect to the switchable magnetic device 2220. The relative movement of the disk 2210 and the switchable magnetic device 2220 will cause eddy currents on the disk 2210 in the area 2230 close to the switchable magnetic device when the switchable magnetic device creates an external magnetic field . The force of eddy currents and, therefore, the effect of the braking force can be increased by increasing the relative alignment of the magnets of the switched magnetic device 2220 so that the external magnetic field created increases. To reduce the braking force, the relative alignment of the magnets of the switching magnetic device 2220 can be reduced (i.e., the magnets can be moved to the “off” position).

FIG. 17 shows an alternative arrangement for generating braking using a switchable magnetic device. In this embodiment, the switchable magnetic device 2320 is mounted inside the cylinder 2310, which is movable in directions indicated by arrows 2311 relative to the switchable magnetic device 2320. The switchable magnetic device 2320 is positioned so that its poles 2325 run across the diameter of the cylinder 2310. In this embodiment the implementation of a switchable magnetic device 2320 will induce eddy currents in areas 2330 of a moving cylinder 2310 when the switchable magnetic device is in the "on" position.

Again, by changing the relative alignment of the magnets of the switching magnetic device 2320, the magnitude of the eddy currents in the regions 2330 may change, and thus the braking effect on the cylinder 2310 may change.

As will be noted by qualified specialists, the principle of variable braking using a switchable magnetic device may include a plurality of switchable magnetic devices mounted relative to the moving conductive element. In addition, a switchable magnetic device can be positioned so as to move around a fixedly mounted conductive element to provide a braking effect on the switchable

- 18 008491 magnetic device. In addition, both the switchable magnetic device (s) and the conductive element can be movable.

As will be noted by qualified specialists, the switchable magnetic device, which is described here, can advantageously be used in any application where a magnetic field is required, and, in particular, can be used when a variable magnetic field is required. Accordingly, the present invention should be considered as used for all applications of a switchable magnetic device of any embodiment described herein.

Qualified professionals will note that the present invention may be implemented with modifications and modifications other than those described above. It should be clear that the present invention covers any variations that are within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (54)

1. Switchable magnetic device, which includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets mounted inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the fully turned off position, in which the north and the south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the activated position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, characterized in that the biasing devices are operatively connected with one or both the first and second magnets to offset the relative rotation of these magnets to the fully off position, and wherein the location of the specified device on the ferromagnetic material or in sredstvenno proximity makes the first and second magnets are rotatable relative to such orientation that the device provides a relatively strong external magnetic field. 2. The switchable magnetic device according to claim 1, in which, when used, when the specified device is located on a ferromagnetic material or in close proximity to it, the value of the force required to cause the relative rotation of the first and second magnet to the fully turned off position is the first predetermined range, and when the specified device is not in contact with the ferromagnetic material or in close proximity to it, the value of the force that is required to cause the relative rotation of the first and second magnet to the fully off position is in a second predetermined range, wherein said second predetermined range of force values has a higher maximum force value than the first predetermined range of force values, and said biasing device applies rotational force to displacements of the relative rotation of these magnets to a completely off position with a force exceeding the maximum value of s s from the first predetermined range but less than the maximum value of the force of the second predetermined range, thus the magnets are automatically rotated to the fully disengaged position, when the device is disposed on a ferromagnetic material or in its immediate vicinity. 3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, in which the biasing device is a spring. 4. A switchable magnetic device that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets mounted inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the fully turned off position, in which the north and the south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the turned off position, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, characterized in that said device also includes limiting rotation device for limiting the degree of relative rotation of the magnets. 5. The device according to claim 4, in which the rotation limiting device allows the relative rotation of the magnets between the deactivated state, in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are most closely aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak an external magnetic field, and an activated position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially - 19 008491 fit in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field. 6. The device according to claim 5, in which, in a deactivated state, the angle of non-alignment of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the south and north poles, respectively, of the second magnet is 50 ° or less. 7. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5 or 6, in which in a deactivated state the angle of incompatibility of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the south and north poles, respectively, of the second magnet is 30 ° or less. 8. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-7, in which in a deactivated state the magnets are in the fully off position. 9. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-8, in which in the activated state the angle of misalignment of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the north and south poles, respectively, of the second magnet is less than 15 °. 10. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 9, in which in the activated state the angle of misalignment of the north and south poles of the first magnet and the north and south poles, respectively, of the second magnet is about 10 °. 11. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-10, in which in the activated state the magnets are in the fully off position. 12. The device according to any one of claims 4-11, wherein said rotation limiting device limits the relative rotation of the magnets to less than or equal to 180 °. 13. The device according to any one of claims 4 to 10, 12, in which the rotation limiting device prevents the magnets from reaching the fully off position. 14. The device according to any one of paragraphs.4-11, 13, in which the rotation limiting device provides a relative rotation of the magnets by more than 180 °. 15. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-10, 14, in which the rotation limiting device provides relative rotation of the magnets in orientation after reaching the fully turned off position. 16. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-15, in which, when used, when the device is located on a ferromagnetic material or in close proximity to it, the magnets remain in the active position by means of a holding force. 17. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-16, in which when the device is located on the ferromagnetic material or in the immediate vicinity of it, the magnets are held activated by the first force, and when the device is not in the immediate vicinity of the ferromagnetic material, a second is required a force that is greater than the first force for holding the magnets in the activated position, while the applied holding force for holding the magnets in the activated position is greater than the first force, but less than Thoraya force, which allows the magnet to be rotated deactivated position when the device is displaced from the contact position or the vicinity of the ferromagnetic material. 18. The device according to any one of paragraphs.16, 17, in which the holding force is a friction force. 19. The device according to any one of paragraphs.5-18, which also includes a holding means configured to apply a holding force to hold the magnets in the activated position when the device is in contact with or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material. 20. The device according to claim 19, in which the holding means comprises a clamping means, which creates a predetermined force, which is less than the second force, but more than the first force. 21. A switchable magnetic device that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets mounted inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the fully turned off position, in which the north and the south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and by turning on the position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, characterized in that the relative rotation of the first and second magnets is limited in such a way that the magnets are prevented from reaching the fully turned on position, but the first and second magnets can rotate in a predetermined relative orientation so that the north and south a pole of the first magnet close but not completely aligned with respective north and south poles of the second magnet such that the device continues to provide a relatively strong external magnetic field, and the device automatically switched - 20 008491 to a state in which the external magnetic field becomes relatively weak when the device moves from the contact position or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material. 22. The device according to item 21, in which when used, when the device is located on a ferromagnetic material or in the immediate vicinity of it, the magnets are held in a predetermined orientation by a holding force. 23. The device according to any one of paragraphs.21, 22, in which when the device is located on the ferromagnetic material or in the immediate vicinity of it, the magnets are held in a predetermined relative orientation by the first force, and when the device is not in the immediate vicinity of the ferromagnetic material is required a second force, which is greater than the first force, for holding the magnets in a predetermined relative orientation, while the applied holding force is greater than the first force, but less than the second sludge, which allows the magnets to automatically rotate to the fully disengaged position, when the device is displaced from the position of contact or close proximity to a ferromagnetic material. 24. The device according to PP.21-23, in which the holding force is a friction force. 25. The device according to claims 21-24, which also includes holding means configured to apply a holding force to hold the magnets in a predetermined relative orientation when the device is in contact with or in close proximity to the ferromagnetic material. 26. The device according A.25, in which the holding means comprises a clamping means, which creates a predetermined force, which is less than the second force, but more than the first force. 27. A switchable magnetic device that includes a housing, a first permanent magnet, a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being mounted inside the housing so that the first and second magnets can rotate relative to each other between the fully turned off position, in which the north and the south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the south and north poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively weak external magnetic field, and the activated position in which the north and south poles of the first magnet are essentially aligned in orientation with the north and south poles of the second magnet, respectively, so that the device creates a relatively strong external magnetic field, and including a device configured to bring the first and second magnets in motion relative to each other, characterized in that the said switching device comprises a flexible part, which is deformed if the switching device is activated in the absence of It magnetic circuit, whereby the limited relative rotation of said magnets, wherein said flexible part produces a sufficient force to substantially avoid deformation during the activation of said device comprising in the presence of an external magnetic circuit. 28. The device according to item 27, in which the specified flexible part is a spring connection. 29. The device according to any one of paragraphs.27 or 28, in which the specified flexible part can be deformed to maximum tension, after which the continued activation of the turning on device causes relative rotation of the magnets. 30. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 26, which also includes a device that leads to the relative rotation of the first and second magnets. 31. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the first and second magnets are essentially disk-shaped. 32. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the first and second magnets are located in the housing so that the front surface of the first magnet is located opposite the front surface of the second magnet. 33. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which one magnet is fixed in the housing, and the second magnet can rotate in the housing. 34. The device according to clause 33, in which another magnet is rotated 180 ° to change the state of a relatively strong external magnetic field of the device to a state of relatively weak external magnetic field. 35. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the housing contains two pole sections. 36. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, in which the housing is made in the form of a single structure or from a homogeneous material. 37. The device according to clause 36, in which two parts of the housing have an area with a reduced cross section so that the housing acts as two passive poles. 38. The device according to clause 36, in which the sections of the housing are processed so that they become non-magnetic, so that the housing acts as two passive poles. 39. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the housing is a camera in which magnets are mounted. 40. The device according to § 39, in which the camera has open ends. - 21 008491 41. The device according to p, in which one or more means closing the camera, close one or more open end of the camera. 42. The device according to any one of paragraphs.40, 41, in which the lower magnet closes the lower end of the chamber. 43. The device according to and. 39, in which the camera has closed ends. 44. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the housing is made of a material having a low magnetic resistance. 45. The device according to item 44, in which the housing is made of mild steel, iron or permalloy. 46. The device according to any one of paragraphs.44, 45, in which the pole sections have a shape that provides the maximum external magnetic field. 47. The device according to any one of paragraphs.45, 46, in which the poles have a minimum length. 48. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the inclusive device has a handle or button connected to one of the magnets. 49. The device according to p, in which the handle or button is connected to one of the magnets through an intermediate element. 50. The device according to any one of p. 48, 49, in which the handle has a torque of a predetermined value for application to one of the magnets. 51. The device according to any one of p. 48-50, in which the inclusive device is actuated manually, electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically or by means of the expansion of the bimetallic strip. 52. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which the first and second magnets are rare earth magnets. 53. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, which also contains a lock or lock secured against unreasonable actions by the user in the switching device, which requires some additional manipulation by the user before the magnets can rotate. 54. The device according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, in which when using the first magnet can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the second magnet.