EP1665295B1 - Electromagnetic actuator with improved initial and latching forces - Google Patents
Electromagnetic actuator with improved initial and latching forces Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1665295B1 EP1665295B1 EP04783399A EP04783399A EP1665295B1 EP 1665295 B1 EP1665295 B1 EP 1665295B1 EP 04783399 A EP04783399 A EP 04783399A EP 04783399 A EP04783399 A EP 04783399A EP 1665295 B1 EP1665295 B1 EP 1665295B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- armature
- gap
- electromagnetic actuator
- extension member
- shaft
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F7/00—Magnets
- H01F7/06—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets
- H01F7/08—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets with armatures
- H01F7/16—Rectilinearly-movable armatures
- H01F7/1638—Armatures not entering the winding
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F7/00—Magnets
- H01F7/06—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets
- H01F7/08—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets with armatures
- H01F7/081—Magnetic constructions
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F7/00—Magnets
- H01F7/06—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets
- H01F7/08—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets with armatures
- H01F7/081—Magnetic constructions
- H01F2007/086—Structural details of the armature
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F3/00—Cores, Yokes, or armatures
- H01F3/10—Composite arrangements of magnetic circuits
- H01F3/14—Constrictions; Gaps, e.g. air-gaps
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01F—MAGNETS; INDUCTANCES; TRANSFORMERS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
- H01F7/00—Magnets
- H01F7/06—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets
- H01F7/08—Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets with armatures
- H01F7/121—Guiding or setting position of armatures, e.g. retaining armatures in their end position
- H01F7/124—Guiding or setting position of armatures, e.g. retaining armatures in their end position by mechanical latch, e.g. detent
Definitions
- the invention relates to electromagnetic actuators, and more particularly, to high initial force electromagnetic actuators.
- An electromagnetic actuator is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical movement. It consists primarily of two parts, a solenoid coil and an armature. Generally, the coil is formed from wire that has been wound into a cylindrical shape. The armature is typically mounted to move or slide axially with respect to the cylindrically shaped coil. An electrical signal applied to the coil generates an electromagnetic field that imparts a force on the armature, thereby causing the armature to move.
- An electromagnetic actuator may be used to actuate a mechanism, for example, a valve, a circuit breaker, a recloser, a switchgear, and the like.
- a mechanism for example, a valve, a circuit breaker, a recloser, a switchgear, and the like.
- Each mechanism needs a certain amount of force to operate the mechanism.
- many of the mechanisms have a limited amount of space to contain the electromagnetic actuator and therefore, electromagnetic actuators are often designed to have a low profile to fit into a limited amount of space. Often, such low profile actuators cannot provide enough force to actuate the mechanism.
- An example of a prior art solution is described in patent US 5,110, 087 which discloses an electromagnetic actuator having an armature which forms a first gap FF with a flange.
- the armature forms also a second gap RR with a housing and a third gap GG with a lateral surface of the flange itself.
- the second gap RR and the third gap GG
- the invention is directed to an electromagnetic actuator having an increased initial force and improved latching force.
- an electromagnetic actuator in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, includes a housing defining a cavity, a shaft, a solenoid coil, a clamp surface, an armature and an extension member.
- the shaft extends through the housing and has a longitudinal axis.
- the solenoid coil is disposed in the cavity of the housing and has a center axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- the armature is secured to the shaft and extends radially outward from the shaft to an outer peripheral surface. The armature is positioned such that the clamp surface is disposed between the solenoid coil and the armature.
- the armature is movable between a first position disposed proximate to the clamp surface and a second position disposed distal to the clamp surface.
- the first gap has a width in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- the extension member extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft to delimit the first gap in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
- the extension forms a second gap with the housing or the armature.
- the second gap has a plurality of different widths that extend in directions radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. These widths are all smaller than the width of the first gap.
- Figure 1 is a cut-away view of an illustrative electromagnetic actuator in the open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
- Figure 2 is a cut-away view of the actuator of Figure 1 in the closed position
- Figure 3 is a cut-away view of a portion of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- Figure 4 is a cut-away view of a portion of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- Figure 5 is a cut-away view of a portion of yet another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- Figure 6 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator
- Fig. 7 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, wherein an armature of the actuator is in a second position;
- Fig. 8 is a cut-away view of the electromagnetic actuator of Fig. 7 , wherein the armature of the actuator is in a first position;
- Fig. 9 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator*
- Fig. 10 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator
- Fig. 11 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- Fig. 12 is a close-up view of a portion of the electromagnetic actuator of Fig. 11 .
- the invention is directed to an electromagnetic actuator having an increased initial force.
- Figure 1 is a cut-away view of an illustrative electromagnetic actuator in the open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- actuator 30 comprises a solenoid coil 5, a shaft 8, an armature 7, and a housing 20.
- Solenoid coil 5 comprises a conductor wound into a cylindrical shape and lead wires (not shown) for connection of electrical power to the conductor. Connection of electrical power to solenoid coil 5 creates a magnetic field that exerts a force on some materials. The greater the number of conductor turns wound in solenoid coil 5, the greater the force exerted when the solenoid coil is energized. The direction of force depends on the polarity of electrical power applied to the lead wires. For example, applying positive voltage to the leads may result in an upward force on armature 7 and applying negative voltage may result in a downward force on armature 7. The strength of the force also depends on the stroke of armature 7. That is, when armature 7 is located distal of solenoid coil 5, the electromagnetic force on armature 7 is weaker than when armature 7 is proximate solenoid coil 5.
- solenoid coil 5 is disposed between a base plate 11 and a clamp plate 3 and within a cavity defined by housing 20.
- Base plate 11 is substantially planar, however, base plate 11 may be any shape that secures solenoid coil 5 within housing 20.
- Base plate 11 comprises threaded holes for receiving fasteners 10 for securing clamp plate 3 and housing 20 to base plate 11; however, other fastening techniques are contemplated.
- Base plate 11 has a passage for receiving shaft 8; however, such passage may not be included if shaft 8 does not extend past base plate 11.
- Base plate 11 extends beyond housing 20 for mounting electromagnetic actuator 30 to another device, such as for example, a valve, a circuit breaker, a recloser, a switchgear, and the like.
- Base plate 11 has holes for fasteners 12 and fasteners 13. While fasteners 12 and 13 are illustrated as countersunk screws and socket head screws, respectively, other fasteners and other mounting techniques are contemplated.
- Core 1 comprises magnetically permeable material and is substantially annular shaped.
- Core 1 has an annular recess for receiving solenoid coil 5 and an axial passage for receiving a bushing 4; however, core 1 may be any shape to provide a magnetic circuit for solenoid coil 5.
- Core 1 has through-holes for receiving fasteners 10; however, core 1 may not include through-holes if fasteners 10 are located outside of core 1.
- Core 1 is disposed on base plate 11 with its axial passage aligned with the passage of base plate 11 and with its through holes aligned with the threaded holes of base plate 11.
- Permanent magnet 2 is substantially annularly shaped and has an axial passage for bushing 4; however, permanent magnet 2 may be any suitable shape. Permanent magnet 2 is aligned such that its magnetic poles provide a magnetic force biasing armature 7 towards solenoid coil 5. The force is strongest when permanent magnet 2 is proximate armature 7 and weakest when permanent magnet 2 is distal of armature 7. Permanent magnet 2 is disposed on core 1, typically proximate armature 7 to provide increased magnetic force on armature 7. Permanent magnet 2 is used with one technique for stroking actuator 30 but may be omitted with other techniques, as described in more detail below.
- Housing 20 is substantially annularly shaped and defines a cavity that contains core 1, solenoid coil 5, permanent magnet 2, clamp plate 3, and bushing 4. Housing 20 has through-holes corresponding to the through-holes of core 1 for receiving fasteners 10. Housing 20 is disposed on core 1 with its through-holes aligned with the through-holes of core 1. Housing 20 comprises a substantially annular extension member 21 extending in an axial direction towards armature 7 and beyond solenoid coil 5 and clamp plate 3. Housing 20 and extension member 21 may be any suitable shape that can define a gap with armature 7, as described in more detail below. Extension member 21 may be integrally formed with housing 20 or may be a separate piece attached to housing 20.
- Extension member 21 is composed of a magnetically permeable material and defines an annular inner surface 26. Extension member 21 provides increased initial magnetic force on armature 7, as described in more detail below.
- Clamp plate 3 is substantially annularly shaped and has through-holes corresponding to the through holes of housing 20 and an axial passage corresponding to the passage of permanent magnet 2.
- Clamp plate 3 may be any suitable shape and may utilize any fastening technique for securing permanent magnet 2, solenoid coil 5, and core 1 within housing 20.
- Fasteners 10, shown as socket head cap screws, are disposed through the through-holes of clamp plate 3, the through-holes of housing 20, the through-holes of core 1, and are threaded into the threaded holes of base plate 11.
- Bushing 4 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed in the passage of core 1, the passage of permanent magnet 2, and the passage of clamp plate 3. Bushing 4 secures shaft 8 such that shaft 8 may move axially.
- Shaft 8 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed in bushing 4.
- Shaft 8 comprises a shaft collar 23 at one end of shaft and threads 24 on the other end of shaft 8.
- Shaft collar 23 is proximate core 1 and is larger than the passage of core 1 and therefore, limits the axial travel of shaft 8 in one direction.
- Threads 24 are distal of core 1 and mate with a fastener 14 to limit the axial travel of shaft 8 in the other direction.
- Fastener 14 is shown as a hex nut engaged to threads 24; however, other fastening techniques are contemplated.
- Spring 9 is disposed over shaft 8 between clamp plate 3 and armature 7. Spring 9 is under compression and therefore biases armature 7 away from solenoid coil 5. Spring 9 is sized depending on the technique used for stroking actuator 30, as described in more detail below.
- Armature 7 comprises magnetically permeable material and has an outer surface 25. Outer surface 25 may be substantially annularly shaped or may be any other shape suitable for defining a gap with the inner surface of extension member 21. Armature 7 has a passage that receives shaft 8 and is disposed substantially coaxially with solenoid coil 5. Armature 7 is secured to shaft 8 via fastener 14; however, armature 7 may be secured to shaft 8 with other techniques, such as welding and the like. Armature 7 has a cylindrical recess that receives spring 9; however, it is contemplated that armature 7 may not include a recess.
- Figure 1 illustrates electromagnetic actuator 30 in the open position (i.e., armature 7 is located distal of solenoid coil 5) with no power, being delivered to solenoid coil 5.
- armature 7 and the body of housing 20 define a gap having a width D1.
- the outer surface 25 of armature 7 is located a distance D2 from inner surface 26 of housing extension member 21, thereby defining an annular air gap 27 having a width D2.
- Width D2 is less than width D1, thereby increasing initial force, as described in more detail below.
- a magnetic force acts on armature 7, pulling armature 7 towards solenoid coil 5.
- a magnetic circuit exists around a cross section of solenoid coil 5. That is, a magnetic circuit exists from core 1, through housing 20, housing extension member 21, across air gap 27, through armature 7, across the air gap having width D1, through clamp plate 3 and permanent magnet 2, and back to core 1.
- the magnetic circuit provides a path for the magnetic flux to create a magnetic force on armature 7.
- the magnetic force from energized solenoid coil 5 is stronger than the force applied by spring 9 and therefore, armature 7 moves to the closed position, which is illustrated in Figure 2 .
- extension member 21 extends beyond clamp plate 3 and defines a small annular air gap 27, rather than a large air gap (e.g., an air gap having a width D1), armature 7 moves towards solenoid coil 5 with a higher initial force. As such, electromagnetic actuator 30 may actuate larger mechanisms than if actuator 30 did not have extension member 21. As such, the same size solenoid coil and armature can actuate a larger mechanism than otherwise possible. Extension member 21, therefore, can increase the force delivered by electromagnetic actuator 30 without significantly increasing the space taken by actuator 30.
- armature 7 remains in the closed position until another force acts on armature 7. Armature 7 remains in the closed position because permanent magnet 2 is now located proximate armature 7 and therefore, exerts a larger force than the opposing force exerted by spring 9. As such, even if power is removed from solenoid coil 5, armature 7 remains in the closed position.
- an opposite direction current may be placed on solenoid coil 5.
- Such current creates a magnetic field that exerts an upward magnetic force on armature 7 that is greater than the downward magnetic force from permanent magnet 2, thereby returning armature 7 to the open position.
- Armature 7 remains in the open position because permanent magnet 2 is now located distal of armature 7 and therefore, exerts a smaller force than the opposing force exerted by spring 9. As such, even if power is removed from solenoid coil 5, armature 7 remains in the open position.
- the initial force is 305 N.
- the initial force increases to 563 N.
- armature 7 may have a substantially constant acceleration, thereby resulting in consistent closing times, which is important in some actuator applications.
- the force-displacement curve over the stroke of the actuator may be controlled by varying the shape of air gap 27, for example by varying the length and shape of the extension member.
- the width of gap 27 can increase with increasing distance from clamp plate 3, such as shown in Figure 3 .
- extension member 21' extends from housing 20'.
- Extension member 21' has an inner annular surface 26"that forms an annular air gap 27'.
- Air gap 27' becomes wider as the distance from clamp plate 3 increases. With such an air gap, the initial force is less than that of Figure 1 , but increases faster with increasing armature 7 stroke.
- Figure 4 shows another actuator 30". As shown, extension member 21" extends from housing 20". Extension member 21" has an inner annular surface 26" that forms an annular air gap 27". Air gap 27" becomes narrower as the distance from clamp plate 3 increases. While linearly increasing and decreasing air gaps are illustrated, other shaped air gaps are also contemplated, such as for example, curved, saw-tooth shaped, square, and the like.
- the outer surface 25 of the armature 7 is non-parallel to the inner annular surface (26', 26") of the extension member(21', 21"), which provides the air gap (27', 27") with different widths.
- the outer surface 25 of the armature 7 is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8 and the inner annular surface (26', 26") of the extension member (21', 21") is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8.
- stroking actuator 30 other techniques for stroking actuator 30 are contemplated.
- permanent magnet 2 is not required for the operation of actuator 30. If permanent magnet 2 is not included in actuator 30, power is continuously applied to solenoid coil 5 to maintain actuator 30 in the closed position.
- spring 9 is in tension and biases armature 7 towards solenoid coil 5.
- FIG. 5 shows a portion of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator 50 that is similar to electromagnetic actuator 30.
- electromagnetic actuator 50 comprises a housing 70 and a clamp plate 53.
- Clamp plate 53 is similar to clamp plate 3 of Figure 1 .
- Housing 70 is similar to housing 20 of Figure 1 ; however, in this embodiment, housing 70 does not have an extension member. Rather, in this embodiment, an actuator 57 comprises an extension member 58.
- the extension member 58 may be integrally formed with the armature 57 or may be a separate piece attached to the armature 57. Such attachment may be, for example, a weld, an adhesive, a fastener, or the like.
- a gap 59 is formed between an interior surface 58a of the extension member 58 and an outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing 70.
- a recess 80 is formed in the outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing 70 and helps define the gap 59. In this manner, the recess 80 increases the width of the gap 59 so as to be greater than the width of the remaining portion of the gap 59.
- the magnetic flux lines generated by the solenoid coil are concentrated in the region of the gap 59, thereby increasing the initial force on armature 57.
- recess 80 other recesses may be formed in the outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing 70.
- the outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing 70 may be provided with one or more protrusions.
- a recess (such as recess 80) or a protrusion creates an irregularity in the outer peripheral surface 70a that concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux to a particular location.
- the irregularity (such as recess 80) in the outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing one or more irregularities may be formed in the interior surface 58a of the extension member 58.
- one or more recesses and/or one or more protrusions may be formed in the interior surface 58a of the extension member 58.
- irregularities may be formed in the armatures and/or extensions of the other actuator embodiments disclosed herein.
- FIG. 6 shows another illustrative electromagnetic actuator.
- electromagnetic actuator 60 comprises a housing 61, an armature 65, and a solenoid coil 82.
- Solenoid coil 82 is similar to solenoid coil 5 of Figure 1 . As shown, solenoid coil 82 is disposed within a cavity 83 defined by housing 61.
- Electromagnetic actuator 60 also comprises a permanent magnet 71.
- Permanent magnet 71 is substantially annularly shaped and has an axial passage for armature 65; however, permanent magnet 71 may be any suitable shape. Permanent magnet 71 is aligned such that its magnetic poles provide a magnetic force biasing armature 65. Permanent magnet 71 is used with one technique for stroking actuator 60, but may be omitted with other techniques.
- Armature 65 comprises magnetically permeable material and a protrusion or extension member 66.
- Extension member 66 extends toward an end cap 63 of housing 61, thereby defining a gap between extension member 66 and housing 61. The gap is less than would otherwise exist and increases the initial force of electromagnetic actuator 60, as described above.
- Extension member 66 is cylindrical and may be integrally formed with armature 65 or may be a separate piece attached to armature 65.
- Armature 65 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed radially inward of the solenoid coil 82; however armature 65 may be any shape to cooperate with solenoid coil 82 to produce axial motion.
- Armature 65 is disposed between end caps 63 and 64 of housing 61. End caps 63 and 64 limit the axial travel of armature 65.
- the armature 65 includes opposing first and second ends 65a, 65b.
- the first end 65a includes an annular surface 67 disposed around the extension member 66.
- the extension member 66 extends away from the annular surface 67 and includes an end surface 66a.
- the annular surface 67 and the end surface 66a comprise two non-coplanar surfaces of the first end 65a of the armature 65, with the annular surface 67 being disposed closer to the second end 65b of the armature 65 than the end surface 66a.
- the annular surface 67 and the end surface 66a are parallel to each other.
- Housing 61 is substantially annularly shaped and defines the cavity 83 that contains solenoid coil 82, permanent magnet 71, and armature 65. Housing 61 also comprises the end caps 63 and 64 that substantially enclose armature 65.
- the end cap 63 has an annular surface 63a that is disposed around a recess 62 for receiving extension member 66 of armature 65.
- the recess 62 is cylindrical and is partially defined by a recessed interior surface 84 that is disposed farther away from the armature 65 than the annular surface 63a. In this manner, the annular surface 63a and the interior surface 84 are non-coplanar.
- Housing 61 and recess 62 may be any suitable shape that can cooperate with extension member 66 of armature 65. In other embodiments, housing 61 may comprise an extension member and armature 65 may comprise a recess for receiving the extension member.
- the armature 65 is movable between a first position disposed proximate to the end cap 63 of the housing 61 and a second position disposed distal to the end cap 63 of the housing.
- the extension member 66 of the armature 65 is disposed in the recess 62 of the end cap 63.
- the annular surface 63a of the end cap 63 is disposed closer to the second end 65b of the armature 65 than the end surface 66a of the extension member 66.
- the extension member 66 is spaced from the end cap 63.
- the irregular configuration of the first end 65a of the armature 65 and the end cap 63 concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux into the recess 62, thereby increasing the initial force of the actuator 60.
- Figs. 7 and 8 there is shown an actuator 86 having substantially the same construction and operation as the actuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of the actuator 86 that are substantially the same as in the actuator 60 will have the same reference numerals. Instead of having only one extension member 66 extending from the armature 65 and only one recess 62 in the end cap 63, as in the actuator 60, the actuator 86 has a pair of extension members 66 extending from the armature 65 and a pair of recesses 62 in the end cap 63.
- a rod 88 is secured to the armature 65 and extends from the second end 65b thereof and a rod 90 is secured to the armature 65 and extends from the first end 65a thereof.
- the two extension members 66 define a valley 92 therebetween, through which the rod 90 extends.
- the recesses 62 in the end cap 63 form a protrusion 94 through which the rod 90 extends.
- the protrusion 94 has an end surface 94a, while the valley 92 is partially defined by an inner surface 96. Since there are two recesses 62 in the end cap 63, the surface 63a is not annular, but is, instead irregularly shaped.
- the surface 63a includes the end surface 94a.
- the extension members 66 of the armature 65 are disposed in the recesses 62 of the end cap 63.
- the protrusion 94 of the end cap 63 is disposed in the valley 92.
- the surface 63a of the end cap 63 is disposed closer to the second end 65b of the armature 65 than the end surfaces 66a of the extension members 66.
- the extension members 66 are spaced from the end cap 63.
- the recesses 62 and the extension members 66 are configured such that when the armature 65 is in the first position and the extension members 66 are disposed in the recesses 62 and the protrusion 94 is disposed in the valley 92, there are gaps between the interior surfaces 84 and the end surfaces 66a and a gap between the inner surface 96 in the valley 92 and the end surface 94a of the protrusion 94. Each of these gaps is preferably about 0.005 inches. It has been found that contaminants (such as metal particles) that may enter or form in the cavity 83 during the operation of the actuator 86 collect in the valley 92. It is believed that the collection of contaminants in the valley 92 improves the latching strength between the armature 65 and the end cap 63. Moreover, the irregular configuration of the first end 65a of the armature 65 and the end cap 63 concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux into the recesses 62, thereby increasing the initial force of the actuator 86.
- FIG. 9 there is shown an actuator 97 having substantially the same construction and operation as the actuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of the actuator 97 that are substantially the same as in the actuator 60 will have the same reference numerals.
- a rod 98 is secured to the armature 65 and extends from the second end 65b thereof and a rod 100 is secured to the armature 65. The rod 100 extends through the recess 62 and the extension member 66.
- Fig.10 there is shown an actuator 104 having substantially the same construction and operation as the actuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of the actuator 104 that are substantially the same as in the actuator 60 will have the same reference numerals.
- the actuator 104 does not have the cylindrical extension member 66 and the cylindrical recess 62, as in the actuator 60. Instead, the armature 65 of the actuator 104 has a frusto-conical protrusion 110 and the end cap 63 has a corresponding frusto-conical recess 112.
- the protrusion 110 has a frusto-conical outer surface 110a, while the recess 112 is defined by a frusto-conical interior surface 114.
- a rod 106 is secured to the armature 65 and extends from the second end 65b thereof and a rod 108 is secured to the armature 65 and extends from the first end 65a thereof.
- the rod 108 extends through the recess 112 and the protrusion 110.
- the protrusion 110 of the armature 65 is disposed in the recess 112 of the end cap 63, with a small gap being formed between the outer surface 110a of the protrusion 110 and the interior surface 114 of the recess 112.
- the protrusion 110 is spaced from the end cap 63.
- Figs. 11 and 12 there is shown an actuator 118 having substantially the same construction and operation as the actuator 30, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of the actuator 118 that are *substantially the same as in the actuator 30 will have the same reference numerals.
- the actuator 118 does not have the extension member 21, as in the actuator 30. Instead, the actuator 118 has an annular extension member 120 with an interior surface 122 and an exterior surface 123.
- the armature 7 does not have the outer surface 25, as in the actuator 30. Instead, the armature 7 has an outer peripheral surface 124.
- the interior surface 122 of the extension member 120 slopes slightly outward as it exends downwardly from an upper rim of the extension member 120 toward the clamp plate 3. As a result, in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8, the interior surface 122 of the extension member 120 is non-parallel to the exterior surface 123 of the extension member 120 and to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8.
- the outer peripheral surface 124 of the armature 7 also slopes slightly outward as it extends downwardly toward the clamp plate 3. As a result, in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8, the outer peripheral surface 124 of the armature 7 is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8.
- the outer peripheral surface 124 of the armature 7, however, is parallel to the interior surface 122 of the extension member 120.
- the outer peripheral surface 124 of the armature 7 cooperates with the interior surface 122 of the extension member 120 to define
- a notch or recess 128 is formed in the outer peripheral surface 124 of the armature 7, toward a lower corner of the armature 7.
- the recess 128 extends radially inward toward the longitudinal axis of the shaft 8 and helps define the gap 126. In this manner, the recess 128 increases the width of the gap 126 so as to be greater than the width of the remaining portion of the gap 126.
- the outward slope of the interior surface 122 of the extension member 120 helps to channel magnetic flux into the recess 128, thereby increasing the initial force of the actuator 118.
Abstract
Description
- The invention relates to electromagnetic actuators, and more particularly, to high initial force electromagnetic actuators.
- An electromagnetic actuator is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical movement. It consists primarily of two parts, a solenoid coil and an armature. Generally, the coil is formed from wire that has been wound into a cylindrical shape. The armature is typically mounted to move or slide axially with respect to the cylindrically shaped coil. An electrical signal applied to the coil generates an electromagnetic field that imparts a force on the armature, thereby causing the armature to move.
- An electromagnetic actuator may be used to actuate a mechanism, for example, a valve, a circuit breaker, a recloser, a switchgear, and the like. Each mechanism needs a certain amount of force to operate the mechanism. Further, many of the mechanisms have a limited amount of space to contain the electromagnetic actuator and therefore, electromagnetic actuators are often designed to have a low profile to fit into a limited amount of space. Often, such low profile actuators cannot provide enough force to actuate the mechanism.
An example of a prior art solution is described in patentUS 5,110, 087 which discloses an electromagnetic actuator having an armature which forms a first gap FF with a flange. The armature forms also a second gap RR with a housing and a third gap GG with a lateral surface of the flange itself. The second gap RR and the third gap GG have a constant width. - Consequently, a need exists for a low profile electromagnetic actuator that is capable of generating sufficient force to actuate a mechanism.
- The invention is directed to an electromagnetic actuator having an increased initial force and improved latching force.
- These and other features of the invention will be more fully set forth hereinafter.
- In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an electromagnetic actuator is provided that includes a housing defining a cavity, a shaft, a solenoid coil, a clamp surface, an armature and an extension member. The shaft extends through the housing and has a longitudinal axis. The solenoid coil is disposed in the cavity of the housing and has a center axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The armature is secured to the shaft and extends radially outward from the shaft to an outer peripheral surface. The armature is positioned such that the clamp surface is disposed between the solenoid coil and the armature. The armature is movable between a first position disposed proximate to the clamp surface and a second position disposed distal to the clamp surface. When the armature is in the second position, the armature and the clamp surface define a first gap therebetween. The first gap has a width in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The extension member extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft to delimit the first gap in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The extension forms a second gap with the housing or the armature. The second gap has a plurality of different widths that extend in directions radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. These widths are all smaller than the width of the first gap.
Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in dependent claims 2-14. - The invention is further described in the detailed description that follows, by reference to the noted drawings by way of non-limiting illustrative embodiments of the invention, in which like reference numerals represent similar elements throughout the several views of the drawings, and wherein:
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Figure 1 is a cut-away view of an illustrative electromagnetic actuator in the open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 2 is a cut-away view of the actuator ofFigure 1 in the closed position; -
Figure 3 is a cut-away view of a portion of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 4 is a cut-away view of a portion of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 5 is a cut-away view of a portion of yet another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; and -
Figure 6 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator; -
Fig. 7 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator, wherein an armature of the actuator is in a second position; -
Fig. 8 is a cut-away view of the electromagnetic actuator ofFig. 7 , wherein the armature of the actuator is in a first position; -
Fig. 9 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator* -
Fig. 10 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator -
Fig. 11 is a cut-away view of another illustrative electromagnetic actuator in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; and -
Fig. 12 is a close-up view of a portion of the electromagnetic actuator ofFig. 11 . - As described above, many low profile electromagnetic actuators cannot provide enough force to actuate a particular mechanism. Increasing the initial force of an actuator, however, may provide enough force to actuate the mechanism. That is, if the electromagnetic actuator can be configured to provide a higher initial force, the resultant increased acceleration and inertia may be sufficient to actuate the mechanism. As such, the invention is directed to an electromagnetic actuator having an increased initial force.
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Figure 1 is a cut-away view of an illustrative electromagnetic actuator in the open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown inFigure 1 ,actuator 30 comprises asolenoid coil 5, ashaft 8, anarmature 7, and ahousing 20. -
Solenoid coil 5 comprises a conductor wound into a cylindrical shape and lead wires (not shown) for connection of electrical power to the conductor. Connection of electrical power tosolenoid coil 5 creates a magnetic field that exerts a force on some materials. The greater the number of conductor turns wound insolenoid coil 5, the greater the force exerted when the solenoid coil is energized. The direction of force depends on the polarity of electrical power applied to the lead wires. For example, applying positive voltage to the leads may result in an upward force onarmature 7 and applying negative voltage may result in a downward force onarmature 7. The strength of the force also depends on the stroke ofarmature 7. That is, whenarmature 7 is located distal ofsolenoid coil 5, the electromagnetic force onarmature 7 is weaker than whenarmature 7 isproximate solenoid coil 5. - As shown,
solenoid coil 5 is disposed between abase plate 11 and aclamp plate 3 and within a cavity defined byhousing 20.Base plate 11 is substantially planar, however,base plate 11 may be any shape that securessolenoid coil 5 withinhousing 20.Base plate 11 comprises threaded holes for receivingfasteners 10 for securingclamp plate 3 and housing 20 tobase plate 11; however, other fastening techniques are contemplated.Base plate 11 has a passage for receivingshaft 8; however, such passage may not be included ifshaft 8 does not extend pastbase plate 11. -
Base plate 11 extends beyondhousing 20 for mountingelectromagnetic actuator 30 to another device, such as for example, a valve, a circuit breaker, a recloser, a switchgear, and the like.Base plate 11 has holes forfasteners 12 andfasteners 13. Whilefasteners -
Core 1 comprises magnetically permeable material and is substantially annular shaped.Core 1 has an annular recess for receivingsolenoid coil 5 and an axial passage for receiving abushing 4; however,core 1 may be any shape to provide a magnetic circuit forsolenoid coil 5.Core 1 has through-holes for receivingfasteners 10; however,core 1 may not include through-holes iffasteners 10 are located outside ofcore 1.Core 1 is disposed onbase plate 11 with its axial passage aligned with the passage ofbase plate 11 and with its through holes aligned with the threaded holes ofbase plate 11. -
Permanent magnet 2 is substantially annularly shaped and has an axial passage forbushing 4; however,permanent magnet 2 may be any suitable shape.Permanent magnet 2 is aligned such that its magnetic poles provide a magneticforce biasing armature 7 towardssolenoid coil 5. The force is strongest whenpermanent magnet 2 isproximate armature 7 and weakest whenpermanent magnet 2 is distal ofarmature 7.Permanent magnet 2 is disposed oncore 1, typicallyproximate armature 7 to provide increased magnetic force onarmature 7.Permanent magnet 2 is used with one technique for strokingactuator 30 but may be omitted with other techniques, as described in more detail below. -
Housing 20 is substantially annularly shaped and defines a cavity that containscore 1,solenoid coil 5,permanent magnet 2,clamp plate 3, andbushing 4.Housing 20 has through-holes corresponding to the through-holes ofcore 1 for receivingfasteners 10.Housing 20 is disposed oncore 1 with its through-holes aligned with the through-holes ofcore 1.Housing 20 comprises a substantiallyannular extension member 21 extending in an axial direction towardsarmature 7 and beyondsolenoid coil 5 and clampplate 3.Housing 20 andextension member 21 may be any suitable shape that can define a gap witharmature 7, as described in more detail below.Extension member 21 may be integrally formed withhousing 20 or may be a separate piece attached tohousing 20. Such attachment may be, for example, a weld, an adhesive, a fastener, or the like.Extension member 21 is composed of a magnetically permeable material and defines an annularinner surface 26.Extension member 21 provides increased initial magnetic force onarmature 7, as described in more detail below. -
Clamp plate 3 is substantially annularly shaped and has through-holes corresponding to the through holes ofhousing 20 and an axial passage corresponding to the passage ofpermanent magnet 2.Clamp plate 3 may be any suitable shape and may utilize any fastening technique for securingpermanent magnet 2,solenoid coil 5, andcore 1 withinhousing 20.Fasteners 10, shown as socket head cap screws, are disposed through the through-holes ofclamp plate 3, the through-holes ofhousing 20, the through-holes ofcore 1, and are threaded into the threaded holes ofbase plate 11. -
Bushing 4 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed in the passage ofcore 1, the passage ofpermanent magnet 2, and the passage ofclamp plate 3.Bushing 4 securesshaft 8 such thatshaft 8 may move axially. -
Shaft 8 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed inbushing 4.Shaft 8 comprises ashaft collar 23 at one end of shaft andthreads 24 on the other end ofshaft 8.Shaft collar 23 isproximate core 1 and is larger than the passage ofcore 1 and therefore, limits the axial travel ofshaft 8 in one direction.Threads 24 are distal ofcore 1 and mate with afastener 14 to limit the axial travel ofshaft 8 in the other direction.Fastener 14 is shown as a hex nut engaged tothreads 24; however, other fastening techniques are contemplated. -
Spring 9 is disposed overshaft 8 betweenclamp plate 3 andarmature 7.Spring 9 is under compression and therefore biases armature 7 away fromsolenoid coil 5.Spring 9 is sized depending on the technique used for strokingactuator 30, as described in more detail below. -
Armature 7 comprises magnetically permeable material and has anouter surface 25.Outer surface 25 may be substantially annularly shaped or may be any other shape suitable for defining a gap with the inner surface ofextension member 21.Armature 7 has a passage that receivesshaft 8 and is disposed substantially coaxially withsolenoid coil 5.Armature 7 is secured toshaft 8 viafastener 14; however,armature 7 may be secured toshaft 8 with other techniques, such as welding and the like.Armature 7 has a cylindrical recess that receivesspring 9; however, it is contemplated thatarmature 7 may not include a recess. - To explain one technique for the operation of
electromagnetic actuator 30,Figure 1 illustrateselectromagnetic actuator 30 in the open position (i.e.,armature 7 is located distal of solenoid coil 5) with no power, being delivered tosolenoid coil 5. As can be seen,armature 7 and the body ofhousing 20 define a gap having a width D1. Also, theouter surface 25 ofarmature 7 is located a distance D2 frominner surface 26 ofhousing extension member 21, thereby defining anannular air gap 27 having a width D2. Width D2 is less than width D1, thereby increasing initial force, as described in more detail below. -
Spring 9biases armature 7 away fromsolenoid coil 5 andpermanent magnet 2biases armature 7 towardssolenoid coil 5. Becausearmature 7 is located distal ofpermanent magnet 2, the magnetic force frompermanent magnet 2 acting onarmature 7 is relatively small compared to the mechanical force applied byspring 9. As such,armature 7 remains in the open position, until another force is applied. - When a current is applied to
solenoid coil 5, a magnetic force acts onarmature 7, pullingarmature 7 towardssolenoid coil 5. To further describe the magnetic force, a magnetic circuit exists around a cross section ofsolenoid coil 5. That is, a magnetic circuit exists fromcore 1, throughhousing 20,housing extension member 21, acrossair gap 27, througharmature 7, across the air gap having width D1, throughclamp plate 3 andpermanent magnet 2, and back tocore 1. The magnetic circuit provides a path for the magnetic flux to create a magnetic force onarmature 7. The magnetic force from energizedsolenoid coil 5 is stronger than the force applied byspring 9 and therefore,armature 7 moves to the closed position, which is illustrated inFigure 2 . - Because
extension member 21 extends beyondclamp plate 3 and defines a smallannular air gap 27, rather than a large air gap (e.g., an air gap having a width D1),armature 7 moves towardssolenoid coil 5 with a higher initial force. As such,electromagnetic actuator 30 may actuate larger mechanisms than ifactuator 30 did not haveextension member 21. As such, the same size solenoid coil and armature can actuate a larger mechanism than otherwise possible.Extension member 21, therefore, can increase the force delivered byelectromagnetic actuator 30 without significantly increasing the space taken byactuator 30. - Once in the closed position,
armature 7 remains in the closed position until another force acts onarmature 7.Armature 7 remains in the closed position becausepermanent magnet 2 is now locatedproximate armature 7 and therefore, exerts a larger force than the opposing force exerted byspring 9. As such, even if power is removed fromsolenoid coil 5,armature 7 remains in the closed position. - To return
armature 7 to the open position, an opposite direction current may be placed onsolenoid coil 5. Such current creates a magnetic field that exerts an upward magnetic force onarmature 7 that is greater than the downward magnetic force frompermanent magnet 2, thereby returningarmature 7 to the open position.Armature 7 remains in the open position becausepermanent magnet 2 is now located distal ofarmature 7 and therefore, exerts a smaller force than the opposing force exerted byspring 9. As such, even if power is removed fromsolenoid coil 5,armature 7 remains in the open position. - Different lengths D3 of
extension member 21 affect the force-stroke distance characteristic ofactuator 30. To illustrate the effect of different lengths ofextension member 21, the magnetic force exerted onarmature 7 bysolenoid coil 5 was calculated for a variety of stroke lengths D1 and a variety ofextension member 21 lengths D3 using a finite element analysis software package. The results are summarized in Table 1 below with the forces indicated in Newtons.Table 1 D3 = 0 mm D3 = 12 mm D3 = 15 mm D3 = 36 mm D1 = 16mm (open) 305 563 693 558 D1 = 14mm 394 777 868 688 D1 = 7mm 1136 1740 1693 1603 D1 = 0 mm (closed) 9925 10,010 9994 9965 - As can be seen, for an
electromagnetic actuator 30 that does not have an extension member (i.e., has a length D3 = 0), the initial force is 305 N. With anextension member 21 having a length D3 = 12 mm, however, the initial force increases to 563 N. Such an increase in initial force may provide the acceleration and inertia to actuate larger mechanisms without utilizing a larger solenoid coil. Another feature ofextension member 21 is thatarmature 7 may have a substantially constant acceleration, thereby resulting in consistent closing times, which is important in some actuator applications. - Further, the force-displacement curve over the stroke of the actuator may be controlled by varying the shape of
air gap 27, for example by varying the length and shape of the extension member. For example, the width ofgap 27 can increase with increasing distance fromclamp plate 3, such as shown inFigure 3 . As shown, extension member 21' extends from housing 20'. Extension member 21' has an innerannular surface 26"that forms an annular air gap 27'. Air gap 27' becomes wider as the distance fromclamp plate 3 increases. With such an air gap, the initial force is less than that ofFigure 1 , but increases faster with increasingarmature 7 stroke. -
Figure 4 shows anotheractuator 30". As shown,extension member 21" extends fromhousing 20".Extension member 21" has an innerannular surface 26" that forms anannular air gap 27".Air gap 27" becomes narrower as the distance fromclamp plate 3 increases. While linearly increasing and decreasing air gaps are illustrated, other shaped air gaps are also contemplated, such as for example, curved, saw-tooth shaped, square, and the like. - In
Figs. 3 and 4 , theouter surface 25 of thearmature 7 is non-parallel to the inner annular surface (26', 26") of the extension member(21', 21"), which provides the air gap (27', 27") with different widths. In addition, in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8, theouter surface 25 of thearmature 7 is parallel with the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8 and the inner annular surface (26', 26") of the extension member (21', 21") is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8. - Further, other techniques for stroking
actuator 30 are contemplated. For example,permanent magnet 2 is not required for the operation ofactuator 30. Ifpermanent magnet 2 is not included inactuator 30, power is continuously applied tosolenoid coil 5 to maintainactuator 30 in the closed position. In another alternate embodiment,spring 9 is in tension and biases armature 7 towardssolenoid coil 5. -
Figure 5 shows a portion of another illustrativeelectromagnetic actuator 50 that is similar toelectromagnetic actuator 30. As shown inFigure 5 ,electromagnetic actuator 50 comprises ahousing 70 and aclamp plate 53.Clamp plate 53 is similar to clampplate 3 ofFigure 1 .Housing 70 is similar tohousing 20 ofFigure 1 ; however, in this embodiment,housing 70 does not have an extension member. Rather, in this embodiment, anactuator 57 comprises anextension member 58. Theextension member 58 may be integrally formed with thearmature 57 or may be a separate piece attached to thearmature 57. Such attachment may be, for example, a weld, an adhesive, a fastener, or the like. Agap 59 is formed between aninterior surface 58a of theextension member 58 and an outer peripheral surface 70a of thehousing 70. Arecess 80 is formed in the outer peripheral surface 70a of thehousing 70 and helps define thegap 59. In this manner, therecess 80 increases the width of thegap 59 so as to be greater than the width of the remaining portion of thegap 59. The magnetic flux lines generated by the solenoid coil are concentrated in the region of thegap 59, thereby increasing the initial force onarmature 57. - It should be appreciated that, in addition to the
recess 80, other recesses may be formed in the outer peripheral surface 70a of thehousing 70. In addition to, or in lieu of, recesses (such as recess 80), the outer peripheral surface 70a of thehousing 70 may be provided with one or more protrusions. A recess (such as recess 80) or a protrusion creates an irregularity in the outer peripheral surface 70a that concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux to a particular location. In addition to, or in lieu of, the irregularity (such as recess 80) in the outer peripheral surface 70a of the housing, one or more irregularities may be formed in theinterior surface 58a of theextension member 58. For example, one or more recesses and/or one or more protrusions may be formed in theinterior surface 58a of theextension member 58. - It should further be appreciated that irregularities (such as protrusions or recesses) may be formed in the armatures and/or extensions of the other actuator embodiments disclosed herein.
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Figure 6 shows another illustrative electromagnetic actuator. As shown inFigure 6 ,electromagnetic actuator 60 comprises ahousing 61, anarmature 65, and asolenoid coil 82. -
Solenoid coil 82 is similar tosolenoid coil 5 ofFigure 1 . As shown,solenoid coil 82 is disposed within acavity 83 defined byhousing 61. -
Electromagnetic actuator 60 also comprises apermanent magnet 71.Permanent magnet 71 is substantially annularly shaped and has an axial passage forarmature 65; however,permanent magnet 71 may be any suitable shape.Permanent magnet 71 is aligned such that its magnetic poles provide a magneticforce biasing armature 65.Permanent magnet 71 is used with one technique for strokingactuator 60, but may be omitted with other techniques. -
Armature 65 comprises magnetically permeable material and a protrusion orextension member 66.Extension member 66 extends toward anend cap 63 ofhousing 61, thereby defining a gap betweenextension member 66 andhousing 61. The gap is less than would otherwise exist and increases the initial force ofelectromagnetic actuator 60, as described above.Extension member 66 is cylindrical and may be integrally formed witharmature 65 or may be a separate piece attached toarmature 65.Armature 65 is substantially cylindrically shaped and is disposed radially inward of thesolenoid coil 82; however armature 65 may be any shape to cooperate withsolenoid coil 82 to produce axial motion.Armature 65 is disposed betweenend caps housing 61. End caps 63 and 64 limit the axial travel ofarmature 65. - The
armature 65 includes opposing first andsecond ends first end 65a includes anannular surface 67 disposed around theextension member 66. Theextension member 66 extends away from theannular surface 67 and includes anend surface 66a. In this manner, theannular surface 67 and theend surface 66a comprise two non-coplanar surfaces of thefirst end 65a of thearmature 65, with theannular surface 67 being disposed closer to thesecond end 65b of thearmature 65 than theend surface 66a. As shown inFig. 6 , theannular surface 67 and theend surface 66a are parallel to each other. -
Housing 61 is substantially annularly shaped and defines thecavity 83 that containssolenoid coil 82,permanent magnet 71, andarmature 65.Housing 61 also comprises the end caps 63 and 64 that substantially enclosearmature 65. Theend cap 63 has anannular surface 63a that is disposed around arecess 62 for receivingextension member 66 ofarmature 65. Therecess 62 is cylindrical and is partially defined by a recessedinterior surface 84 that is disposed farther away from thearmature 65 than theannular surface 63a. In this manner, theannular surface 63a and theinterior surface 84 are non-coplanar. Theannular surface 63a and theinterior surface 84 are, however, parallel to each other.Housing 61 andrecess 62 may be any suitable shape that can cooperate withextension member 66 ofarmature 65. In other embodiments,housing 61 may comprise an extension member andarmature 65 may comprise a recess for receiving the extension member. - The
armature 65 is movable between a first position disposed proximate to theend cap 63 of thehousing 61 and a second position disposed distal to theend cap 63 of the housing. When thearmature 65 is in the first position, theextension member 66 of thearmature 65 is disposed in therecess 62 of theend cap 63. With theextension member 66 so positioned, theannular surface 63a of theend cap 63 is disposed closer to thesecond end 65b of thearmature 65 than theend surface 66a of theextension member 66. When thearmature 65 is in the second position (as shown inFig. 6 ), theextension member 66 is spaced from theend cap 63. - The irregular configuration of the
first end 65a of thearmature 65 and theend cap 63 concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux into therecess 62, thereby increasing the initial force of theactuator 60. - Referring now to
Figs. 7 and8 , there is shown anactuator 86 having substantially the same construction and operation as theactuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of theactuator 86 that are substantially the same as in theactuator 60 will have the same reference numerals. Instead of having only oneextension member 66 extending from thearmature 65 and only onerecess 62 in theend cap 63, as in theactuator 60, theactuator 86 has a pair ofextension members 66 extending from thearmature 65 and a pair ofrecesses 62 in theend cap 63. In addition, arod 88 is secured to thearmature 65 and extends from thesecond end 65b thereof and arod 90 is secured to thearmature 65 and extends from thefirst end 65a thereof. The twoextension members 66 define avalley 92 therebetween, through which therod 90 extends. Correspondingly, therecesses 62 in theend cap 63 form aprotrusion 94 through which therod 90 extends. Theprotrusion 94 has anend surface 94a, while thevalley 92 is partially defined by aninner surface 96. Since there are tworecesses 62 in theend cap 63, thesurface 63a is not annular, but is, instead irregularly shaped. Thesurface 63a includes theend surface 94a. - When the
armature 65 is in the first position (as shown inFig. 8 ), theextension members 66 of thearmature 65 are disposed in therecesses 62 of theend cap 63. In addition, theprotrusion 94 of theend cap 63 is disposed in thevalley 92. With theextension members 66 so positioned, thesurface 63a of theend cap 63 is disposed closer to thesecond end 65b of thearmature 65 than the end surfaces 66a of theextension members 66. When thearmature 65 is in the second position (as shown inFig. 7 ), theextension members 66 are spaced from theend cap 63. - The
recesses 62 and theextension members 66 are configured such that when thearmature 65 is in the first position and theextension members 66 are disposed in therecesses 62 and theprotrusion 94 is disposed in thevalley 92, there are gaps between theinterior surfaces 84 and the end surfaces 66a and a gap between theinner surface 96 in thevalley 92 and theend surface 94a of theprotrusion 94. Each of these gaps is preferably about 0.005 inches. It has been found that contaminants (such as metal particles) that may enter or form in thecavity 83 during the operation of theactuator 86 collect in thevalley 92. It is believed that the collection of contaminants in thevalley 92 improves the latching strength between thearmature 65 and theend cap 63. Moreover, the irregular configuration of thefirst end 65a of thearmature 65 and theend cap 63 concentrates the magnetic flux by channeling the flux into therecesses 62, thereby increasing the initial force of theactuator 86. - Referring now to
Fig. 9 , there is shown anactuator 97 having substantially the same construction and operation as theactuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of theactuator 97 that are substantially the same as in theactuator 60 will have the same reference numerals. Arod 98 is secured to thearmature 65 and extends from thesecond end 65b thereof and arod 100 is secured to thearmature 65. Therod 100 extends through therecess 62 and theextension member 66. - Referring now to
Fig.10 , there is shown anactuator 104 having substantially the same construction and operation as theactuator 60, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of theactuator 104 that are substantially the same as in theactuator 60 will have the same reference numerals. Theactuator 104 does not have thecylindrical extension member 66 and thecylindrical recess 62, as in theactuator 60. Instead, thearmature 65 of theactuator 104 has a frusto-conical protrusion 110 and theend cap 63 has a corresponding frusto-conical recess 112. Theprotrusion 110 has a frusto-conicalouter surface 110a, while therecess 112 is defined by a frusto-conicalinterior surface 114. Arod 106 is secured to thearmature 65 and extends from thesecond end 65b thereof and arod 108 is secured to thearmature 65 and extends from thefirst end 65a thereof. Therod 108 extends through therecess 112 and theprotrusion 110. - When the
armature 65 is in the first position, theprotrusion 110 of thearmature 65 is disposed in therecess 112 of theend cap 63, with a small gap being formed between theouter surface 110a of theprotrusion 110 and theinterior surface 114 of therecess 112. When thearmature 65 is in the second position (as shown inFig. 10 ), theprotrusion 110 is spaced from theend cap 63. - Referring now to
Figs. 11 and 12 , there is shown anactuator 118 having substantially the same construction and operation as theactuator 30, except for the differences set forth below. Due to the similarity of construction, components of theactuator 118 that are *substantially the same as in theactuator 30 will have the same reference numerals. Theactuator 118 does not have theextension member 21, as in theactuator 30. Instead, theactuator 118 has anannular extension member 120 with aninterior surface 122 and anexterior surface 123. In addition, thearmature 7 does not have theouter surface 25, as in theactuator 30. Instead, thearmature 7 has an outerperipheral surface 124. - The
interior surface 122 of theextension member 120 slopes slightly outward as it exends downwardly from an upper rim of theextension member 120 toward theclamp plate 3. As a result, in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8, theinterior surface 122 of theextension member 120 is non-parallel to theexterior surface 123 of theextension member 120 and to the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8. The outerperipheral surface 124 of thearmature 7 also slopes slightly outward as it extends downwardly toward theclamp plate 3. As a result, in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8, the outerperipheral surface 124 of thearmature 7 is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8. The outerperipheral surface 124 of thearmature 7, however, is parallel to theinterior surface 122 of theextension member 120. The outerperipheral surface 124 of thearmature 7 cooperates with theinterior surface 122 of theextension member 120 to define agap 126 therebetween. - A notch or
recess 128 is formed in the outerperipheral surface 124 of thearmature 7, toward a lower corner of thearmature 7. Therecess 128 extends radially inward toward the longitudinal axis of theshaft 8 and helps define thegap 126. In this manner, therecess 128 increases the width of thegap 126 so as to be greater than the width of the remaining portion of thegap 126. The outward slope of theinterior surface 122 of theextension member 120 helps to channel magnetic flux into therecess 128, thereby increasing the initial force of theactuator 118. - It is to be understood that the foregoing description has been provided merely for the purpose of explanation and is in no way to be construed as limiting of the invention. Where the invention has been described with reference to embodiments, it is understood that the words which have been used herein are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Further, although the invention has been described herein with reference to particular structure, materials and/or embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein. Rather, the invention extends to all structures, such as are within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (14)
- An electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) comprising:a housing (20, 20', 20", 70) defining a cavity;a shaft (8) extending through the housing (20, 20', 20", 70) and having a longitudinal axis;a solenoid coil (5) disposed in the cavity of the housing (20, 20', 20", 70) and having a center axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8);a clamp surface (3, 53);an armature (7, 57) secured to the shaft (8) and extending radially outward from the shaft (8) to an outer peripheral surface, said armature (7, 57) being positioned such that the clamp surface (3, 53) is disposed between the solenoid coil (5) and the armature (7, 57), and wherein said armature (7, 57) is movable between a first position disposed proximate to the clamp surface (3, 53) and a second position disposed distal to the clamp surface (3, 53), wherein when the armature (7, 57) is in the second position, the armature (7, 57) and the clamp surface (3, 53) define a first gap therebetween, said first gap having a width (D1) in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8); andan extension member (21, 21', 21 ", 58, 120) extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8) to delimit the first gap in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8), said extension member (21, 21', 21", 58, 120) forming a second gap (27, 27',27", 59, 126) with the housing (20, 20', 20", 70) or the armature (7, 57), characterized in that said second gap (27, 27',27", 59, 126) has a plurality of different widths that extend in directions radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8), wherein the widths of the second gap (27, 27',27", 59, 126) are all smaller than the width of the first gap.
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 1, wherein the extension member (21, 21', 21", 120) is joined to, and extends from, the housing (20, 20', 20").
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 1, wherein the second gap (27, 27',27", 126) is formed between the outer peripheral surface (25, 124) of the armature (7) and an interior surface (26, 26', 26", 122) of the extension member (21, 21', 21 ", 120).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 3, wherein the outer peripheral surface (25, 124) of the armature (7) is non-parallel to the interior surface (26, 26', 26", 122) of the extension member (21', 21 ", 120).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 4, wherein in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8), the outer peripheral surface (25) of the armature (7) is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8) and the interior surface (26', 26", 122) of the extension member (21', 21". 120) is non-parallel with the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 4, wherein the greatest width of the second gap (27, 27', 27", 59, 126) is disposed proximate to the clamp surface (3, 53), and the smallest width of the second gap is disposed distal to the clamp surface (3, 53).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 4, wherein the greatest width of the second gap (27, 27', 27", 59, 126) is disposed distal to the clamp surface (3, 53), and the smallest width of the second gap is disposed proximate to the clamp surface (3, 53).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 3, wherein the outer peripheral surface (124) of the armature (7) has a recess (128) formed therein, said recess (128) helping to define the second gap (126).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 8, wherein the outer peripheral surface (124) of the armature (7) is parallel to the interior surface (122) of the extension member (120).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 9, wherein in a plane extending in a direction radially outward from the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8), the outer peripheral surface (124) of the armature (7) and the interior surface (122) of the extension member (120) are non-parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft (8).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 1, wherein the extension member (58) is joined to, and extends from, the armature (57), and wherein the second gap (59) is formed between an interior surface (58a) of the extension member (58) and an outer peripheral surface (70a) of the housing (70).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 11, wherein a recess (80) is formed in the outer peripheral surface (70a) of the housing (70) and is located in the second gap (59).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 1, wherein the clamp surface (3, 53) comprises a clamp plate (3, 53) and wherein the electromagnetic actuator further comprises a permanent magnet (2) disposed radially inward from the solenoid coil (5).
- The electromagnetic actuator (30, 30', 30", 50, 118) of claim 1, wherein it further comprises a spring (9) disposed in the housing (20, 20', 20", 70) and operable to bias the armature (7, 57) toward the second position.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US50062903P | 2003-09-05 | 2003-09-05 | |
PCT/US2004/029129 WO2005024860A1 (en) | 2003-09-05 | 2004-09-04 | Electromagnetic actuator with improved initial and latching forces |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP1665295A1 EP1665295A1 (en) | 2006-06-07 |
EP1665295B1 true EP1665295B1 (en) | 2008-05-28 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP04783399A Not-in-force EP1665295B1 (en) | 2003-09-05 | 2004-09-04 | Electromagnetic actuator with improved initial and latching forces |
Country Status (11)
Country | Link |
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EP (1) | EP1665295B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1846285B (en) |
AT (1) | ATE397278T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2004271641B9 (en) |
BR (1) | BRPI0414123B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2537475C (en) |
DE (1) | DE602004014166D1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2308252T3 (en) |
RU (1) | RU2380779C2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2005024860A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA200601724B (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9514872B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2016-12-06 | General Electric Company | Electromagnetic actuator and method of use |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102006021927A1 (en) * | 2006-05-11 | 2007-11-15 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | electromagnet |
JP5114506B2 (en) * | 2007-03-23 | 2013-01-09 | オーチス エレベータ カンパニー | Magnetic coupling device for elevator system |
EP2624386B1 (en) * | 2012-02-01 | 2014-12-24 | ABB Technology AG | Interlocking device for a switchgear |
EP2874169B1 (en) * | 2013-11-18 | 2016-09-14 | ABB Schweiz AG | Actuator for medium voltage switchgear |
DE102014004843A1 (en) * | 2014-04-02 | 2015-10-08 | Schaltbau Gmbh | DC contactor with additional switching capability for AC loads and polarity against the preferred direction of current |
DE102014109124B4 (en) * | 2014-06-30 | 2016-05-19 | Kendrion (Villingen) Gmbh | Electromagnetic camshaft adjusting device |
CN106787416A (en) * | 2017-02-04 | 2017-05-31 | 中国电子科技集团公司第二十研究所 | Double air gaps multipath magnetic circuit electromagnetism finger device with big initial electromagnetic suction |
JP7393125B2 (en) * | 2018-03-13 | 2023-12-06 | フスコ オートモーティブ ホールディングス エル・エル・シー | Bistable solenoid with intermediate states |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5110087A (en) * | 1990-06-25 | 1992-05-05 | Borg-Warner Automotive Electronic & Mechanical Systems Corporation | Variable force solenoid hydraulic control valve |
DE4329760A1 (en) * | 1993-09-03 | 1995-03-09 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Proportional valve which can be operated electromagnetically |
CN1360725A (en) * | 1999-07-05 | 2002-07-24 | 动力发展有限公司 | Electromagnetic rams |
DE20100950U1 (en) * | 2001-01-19 | 2002-05-23 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Electromagnetic actuator |
-
2004
- 2004-09-04 CN CN200480025300XA patent/CN1846285B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-09-04 AU AU2004271641A patent/AU2004271641B9/en not_active Ceased
- 2004-09-04 WO PCT/US2004/029129 patent/WO2005024860A1/en active Application Filing
- 2004-09-04 DE DE602004014166T patent/DE602004014166D1/en active Active
- 2004-09-04 RU RU2006110945/09A patent/RU2380779C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-09-04 AT AT04783399T patent/ATE397278T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-09-04 BR BRPI0414123A patent/BRPI0414123B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2004-09-04 CA CA2537475A patent/CA2537475C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2004-09-04 EP EP04783399A patent/EP1665295B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2004-09-04 ES ES04783399T patent/ES2308252T3/en active Active
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2006
- 2006-02-27 ZA ZA200601724A patent/ZA200601724B/en unknown
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9514872B2 (en) | 2014-12-19 | 2016-12-06 | General Electric Company | Electromagnetic actuator and method of use |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN1846285A (en) | 2006-10-11 |
AU2004271641B9 (en) | 2008-08-14 |
WO2005024860A1 (en) | 2005-03-17 |
CN1846285B (en) | 2011-10-05 |
CA2537475A1 (en) | 2005-03-17 |
CA2537475C (en) | 2010-08-10 |
RU2006110945A (en) | 2006-08-10 |
BRPI0414123A (en) | 2006-10-31 |
EP1665295A1 (en) | 2006-06-07 |
AU2004271641B2 (en) | 2008-03-20 |
BRPI0414123B1 (en) | 2016-07-12 |
ATE397278T1 (en) | 2008-06-15 |
AU2004271641A1 (en) | 2005-03-17 |
ES2308252T3 (en) | 2008-12-01 |
RU2380779C2 (en) | 2010-01-27 |
ZA200601724B (en) | 2007-09-26 |
DE602004014166D1 (en) | 2008-07-10 |
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