US20110132901A1 - Transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater - Google Patents
Transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater Download PDFInfo
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- US20110132901A1 US20110132901A1 US13/029,501 US201113029501A US2011132901A1 US 20110132901 A1 US20110132901 A1 US 20110132901A1 US 201113029501 A US201113029501 A US 201113029501A US 2011132901 A1 US2011132901 A1 US 2011132901A1
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- magnet
- drive shaft
- conductor
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- conductor plate
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B6/00—Heating by electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields
- H05B6/02—Induction heating
- H05B6/10—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B6/00—Heating by electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields
- H05B6/02—Induction heating
- H05B6/10—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
- H05B6/105—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications using a susceptor
- H05B6/109—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications using a susceptor using magnets rotating with respect to a susceptor
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
- H02K49/00—Dynamo-electric clutches; Dynamo-electric brakes
- H02K49/10—Dynamo-electric clutches; Dynamo-electric brakes of the permanent-magnet type
- H02K49/104—Magnetic couplings consisting of only two coaxial rotary elements, i.e. the driving element and the driven element
- H02K49/108—Magnetic couplings consisting of only two coaxial rotary elements, i.e. the driving element and the driven element with an axial air gap
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B6/00—Heating by electric, magnetic or electromagnetic fields
- H05B6/02—Induction heating
- H05B6/10—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
- H05B6/105—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications using a susceptor
- H05B6/108—Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications using a susceptor for heating a fluid
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
- H02K2213/00—Specific aspects, not otherwise provided for and not covered by codes H02K2201/00 - H02K2211/00
- H02K2213/09—Machines characterised by the presence of elements which are subject to variation, e.g. adjustable bearings, reconfigurable windings, variable pitch ventilators
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Power Engineering (AREA)
- General Induction Heating (AREA)
- Air-Conditioning For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
A transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater is provided having a conductor assembly and a magnet assembly. The conductor assembly is operable to rotate relative to the magnet assembly about an axis so as to induce eddy currents in the conductor assembly when relative motion is produced between the conductor assembly and magnet assembly. The magnet assembly is operable to translate transversely into and out of magnetic engagement with the conductor assembly. The conductor assembly defines a fluid path therethrough operable to drive a working fluid therethrough and for the transfer of heat from the conductor assembly to the working fluid. The magnetic heater may be a component of a heat generation system comprising an internal combustion engine having a drive shaft for rotating the conductor assembly. The heat generated by the magnetic heater, as well as the heat generated by the engine from the engine exhaust and engine cooling system, is combined to heat a working fluid.
Description
- This is a continuation application claiming benefit under 35 USC §120 of U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 11/968,175, filed Jan. 1, 2008 and entitled CONTROLLED TORQUE MAGNETIC HEAT GENERATION which is in its entirety incorporated herewith by reference, which is a division of and claiming benefit to U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 11/243,394, filed Oct. 3, 2005, U.S. Pat. No. 7,420,144, and entitled CONTROLLED TORQUE MAGNETIC HEAT GENERATION, which is in its entirety incorporated herewith by reference, which is a continuation-in-part of and claiming benefit to U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 11/174,316, filed Jun. 30, 2005, U.S. Pat. No. 7,339,144, and entitled MAGNETIC HEAT GENERATION which is in its entirety incorporated herewith by reference.
- The present invention is related to devices for the production of heat, and more particularly, to methods and apparatus for generating heat using magnetic induction.
- A magnetic heater generates heat by a phenomenon known as magnetic inductive heating. Magnetic inductive heating occurs in an electrically conductive member when exposed to a time-varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field induces eddy currents within the conductive member, thereby heating it. An increase in the magnitude of the variations of the magnetic field increases the rate at which the conductive member is heated. The heated conductive member can then be used as a heat source for various purposes. The heated conductive member is often used to heat a fluid, such as air or water, which is circulated past the conductive member. The heated fluid is then used to transfer the heat from the heater for external use.
- One method of exposing a conductive member to a varying magnetic field is to move a magnetic field source relative to the conductive member. This motion may be achieved by arranging magnets around the edge of a circular disk having a rotatable shaft substantially at its center, the flat surface of the disk being opposable to an essentially flat portion of the surface of the conductive member. As the shaft of the disk is rotated, the magnets move relative to the surface of the conductive member. A given point on the conductive member is exposed to a cyclically varying magnetic field as each of the magnets approach, pass over, and retreat from that given point.
- The amount of heat induced within the conductive member depends on many factors, some of which include the strength of the magnetic field, the distance between the magnets and the conductive member (referred herein as the “conductor/magnet spacing”), and the relative speed of the magnets to the conductive member.
- Conventional magnetic heaters suffer from several disadvantages. For example, many conventional magnetic heaters have limited precision in their control of operational parameters such as the rate of heat generation, the efficiency of heat generation, and the efficiency of heat transfer to the working fluid used to carry the heat.
- A magnetic heater is needed that provides one or more of the following: improved control of the rate of heat generation, improved efficiency of heat generation, and improved efficiency of heat transfer to the working fluid used to carry the heat.
- Like reference numbers generally indicate corresponding elements in the figures.
-
FIG. 1 is a side view of a magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the magnet assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a side view of a magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 4 is a front view of a conductive member comprising a plurality of separate conductors, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 5 is a portion of the frame with a cross-sectional view of a magnet and a protective layer provided on the exterior of the magnet, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 6 is a side view of a magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 7 is a side view of a magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is a front view of the embodiment ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIGS. 9A and 9B are side views of the magnetic heater comprising a spacing actuator for varying the conductor/magnet spacing, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is a side view of a radially moving magnet relative to a conductive member, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is a partial view of the embodiment ofFIG. 10 , wherein different polarities of opposing magnets face the conductive member, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is a multi-stage magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a magnetic heater apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 13B is an exploded view of the magnetic heater apparatus ofFIG. 13A . -
FIG. 14A is a perspective exploded view of a magnetic heater apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 14B is a side cross-sectional view of the magnetic heater apparatus ofFIG. 14A ; -
FIG. 15 is a front view of a magnetic heater, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the magnetic heater ofFIG. 15 along cut line 16-16; -
FIG. 17 is a partial cutaway detailed view of the side cross-sectional view ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a partially exploded view of the magnetic heater ofFIG. 15 ; -
FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a rotatable magnet assembly of the magnetic heater ofFIG. 15 , in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a conductor assembly of the magnetic heater ofFIG. 15 , in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of an engine-driven heat generation system, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an engine-driven heat generation system, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIGS. 23 , 24 and 25 are partially exploded and assembled perspective views, respectively, of a split-conductor magnetic heater assembly comprising a split-conductor magnetic heater and a frame, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a conductor assembly comprising a slot, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIGS. 27 , 28, and 29 are perspective, front and side views, respectively, of an engine-driven heat generation system, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIGS. 30 , 31 and 32 are partially exploded and two assembled perspective views, respectively, of a transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater assembly comprising a transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater and a frame, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIGS. 33 , 34, and 35 are perspective, front, and side views, respectively, of an engine-driven heat generation system, in accordance with an embodiment; -
FIG. 36 is an exploded view of a magnet unit comprising a plurality of pivotal magnet assemblies, in accordance with an embodiment; and -
FIGS. 37 and 38 are perspective views of a pivoting-magnet magnetic heater assembly, in accordance with an embodiment. -
FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of amagnetic heater 2 in accordance with the present invention. Themagnetic heater 2 comprises amagnet assembly 20 and aconductive member 14 disposed proximate themagnet assembly 20. Rotation of themagnet assembly 20 about an x-axis induces a predetermined cyclical variation of magnetic field within theconductive member 14. -
FIG. 2 is a front view of themagnet assembly 20 ofFIG. 1 . Themagnet assembly 20 comprises a disk-shapedframe 22, a plurality ofmagnets 12, and ashaft 18. The plurality ofmagnets 12 are coupled to and arranged in a planar, generally circular, spaced-apart, orientation on theframe 22. Themagnets 12 each have afirst magnet surface 13 in a substantially planar relationship, referred herein as thefirst magnet plane 21, shown inFIG. 1 . Theshaft 18 is coupled substantially at the center of rotation of theframe 22. The center of rotation of theframe 22 defines the x-axis which is substantially perpendicular to thefirst magnet plane 21. Theshaft 18 is operable to couple with an energy source capable of imparting rotation to theshaft 18. - The
conductive member 14 has a planar conductive memberfirst side 15 in opposing, substantially parallel relationship with thefirst magnet plane 21. The conductive memberfirst side 15 and thefirst magnet plane 21 are spaced-apart a predetermined distance in opposing relationship referred herein as a conductor/magnet spacing X1. Theconductive member 14 comprises an electrically-conductive material. - As the
shaft 18 of theframe 22 is rotated, themagnets 12 move relative to the conductive memberfirst side 15 of theconductive member 14. A given point on theconductive member 14 will, therefore, be exposed to a cyclically varying magnetic field as each of themagnets 12 approach, pass over, and retreat from adjacent that given point. The given point on theconductive member 14 will thus be heated as long as the given point is exposed to the time-varying magnetic field. - It is appreciated that the
magnet assembly 20 can comprise one ormore magnets 12. Onemagnet 12 is sufficient to expose a cyclically varying magnetic field onto theconductive member 14. Therefore, it is appreciated that when reference is made to a plurality ofmagnets 12, it applies also to embodiments comprising onemagnet 12, and vice-versa. - In embodiments, the
magnets 12 are permanent magnets. Therefore, themagnets 12 have a substantially constant magnetic field strength. This is contrasted with an electromagnet, which has the capability of producing a range of magnetic field strength dependent on varying the current driving the electromagnet. Therefore, the strength of the magnetic field produced by thepermanent magnets 12 that theconductive member 14 is exposed to primarily depends on the conductor/magnet spacing X1. The magnetic field strength of thepermanent magnet 12 is referred to as the absolute magnetic field strength. - A
fluid path 16 is defined such that heat transfer between theconductive member 14 and fluid moving within thefluid path 16 is enabled. Thus, as theconductive member 14 is heated, a fluid absorbs at least a portion of the heat generated. The fluid can thus be used to transport the heat to another location. - The radial and axial placement of the
magnets 12 about theframe 22 as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 is exemplary only. Placement of themagnets 12 about theframe 22 in other arrangements, orientations, spacing, among other things, in planar relationship or otherwise, is anticipated suitable for a particular purpose of imparting a magnetic field onto theconductive member 14 and/or onto additionalconductive members 14. Furthermore, themagnets 12 need not be of the same size, shape, polar orientation, composition, or type, among other things. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 1 and 2 , themagnets 12 are oriented such that theconductive member 14 is exposed to an alternating polarity fromadjacent magnets 12, with their north poles N either pointing towards or away from theconductive member 14. Such an arrangement produces a relatively large range of variation in the magnetic field on theconductive member 14 as compared with, for example, wherein all of themagnets 12 present the same polarity to theconductive member 14. - Relative motion between the
conductive member 14 and themagnets 12 is produced, wherein themagnets 12, are caused to rotate about the x-axis and holding theconductive member 14 stationary. -
FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of amagnetic heater 3 wherein theconductive member 14 is caused to rotate about the x-axis and holding themagnet assembly 20, and thus, themagnets 12, stationary. Theconductive member 14 is coupled to ashaft 18 that is coupled to an energy source suitable for rotating theshaft 18 about the x-axis. - It is understood that relative motion between the
magnets 12 and theconductive member 14 can be produced, in accordance with embodiments, by the above mentioned configurations, and by other configurations, such as, but not limited to, rotation of both themagnet assembly 20 andconductive member 14 at different rates in the same direction, and rotation of both themagnet assembly 20 andconductive member 14 in opposite directions. - The absolute magnetic field strength of the
magnet 12 is a measure of the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by themagnet 12 at a point on themagnet 12. For permanent magnets, the absolute magnetic field strength is essentially fixed. For electromagnets, the absolute magnetic field strength depends on the amount of current passing through the magnets coils. - The magnetic field exerted on the
conductive member 14 depends on, among other things, the absolute magnetic field strength of themagnet 12 and the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between themagnet 12 and theconductive member 14. - A variety of
magnets 12 are suitable for embodiments of the present invention.Permanent magnets 12 are advantageous for certain embodiments, for at least the reason that it is not necessary to supply electrical power to themagnets 12, hence no wiring or power source is needed for such purpose. - The rate of heat generation in a
magnetic heater magnets 12. Therefore, for applications wherein a high rate of heat generation is desirable, it is also desirable that themagnets 12 have a relatively high absolute magnetic field strength. - In addition, the maximum temperature that can be generated by a
magnetic heater magnets 12. Permanent magnets have a “maximum effective operating temperature” above which their magnetic field begins to degrade significantly. - Electromagnets likewise suffer from decreased performance with increasing temperature, though the decrease is not as well defined as that of permanent magnets. For example, the resistance of the magnetic field coils in an electromagnet gradually increases with increasing temperature, which in turn gradually reduces the current flow at a given voltage, generating still more heat. Magnets of both types are available suitable for use at elevated temperatures.
- Permanent magnets known as rare earth magnets, such as, but not limited to Samarium Cobalt magnets, have a relatively high absolute magnetic field strength and operating temperature, and are suitable for the particular purpose.
- The
conductive member 14 comprises an electrically conductive material suitable for the particular purpose. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, copper, aluminum, alloys of copper, alloys of aluminum, and other metallic or non-metallic, electrically conductive substances. Theconductive member 14 is operable to enable induced eddy-currents within theconductive member 14 when exposed to a time-varying magnetic flux. Theconductive member 14 of the embodiment ofFIG. 1 is generally disc-shaped. Theconductive member 14 is not particularly limited to a specific shape, size, or configuration. In other embodiments, the conductive member is formed in two or more pieces, as a thin conductive layer on a non-conductive substrate, having defined apertures therein, among other configurations. - The conductive member need not consist of a closed loop or integral piece of conductive material.
FIG. 4 is a front view of aconductive member assembly 11 comprising a plurality ofseparate conductors 27 that are separated from one another bynon-conductive material 48 in accordance with an embodiment. In such a case, eachconductor 27 is heated independently. - Likewise, the
conductive member 14, even if a single contiguous piece of conductive material, might be shaped with apertures, or be constructed of wires, beams, rods, etc., with empty space therebetween. -
FIGS. 1 through 3 show themagnetic heater -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of themagnet assembly 20 comprising aframe 22 with amagnet 12 and aprotective layer 31 provided on the exterior of themagnet 12. Theprotective layer 31 is selected for a particular purpose, including, but not limited to, thermal protection, additional structural integrity, and chemical protection. - A variety of materials are suitable for use as the
protective layer 31, so long as they do not significantly reduce the propagation of the magnetic field of themagnet 12. - In one embodiment, the
protective layer 31 comprises aluminum. It is noted that aluminum has a high reflectivity, thus inhibiting the absorption of heat by themagnet 12, and a high infrared emissivity, thus facilitating the rapid re-radiation of heat away from themagnet 12. These properties combine to provide passive cooling for themagnet 12. In addition, aluminum is relatively durable, and so aprotective layer 31 of aluminum serves to protect themagnet 12 physically. Likewise, aluminum is relatively impermeable, and thus may effectively seal themagnet 12 against any potential corrosive effects due to moisture, oxygen, fluid flowing through the fluid path 16 (see below), among other things. - In addition, in other embodiments, the
magnetic heater magnets 12. A wide variety of cooling mechanisms are suitable for the particular purpose. For example, passive cooling mechanisms include, but are not limited to, heat sinks and radiator fins. Active cooling mechanisms include, but are not limited to, coolant loops and refrigeration units. - It is noted that the
fluid path 16, as described below, may be configured to act as a cooling mechanism. In some embodiments, fluid is used to provide a mechanism for absorbing heat from theconductive member 14, and it is well suited for absorbing heat from themagnets 12 as well. - In other embodiments, heat is generated for use via direct conduction or radiation from the
conductive member 14. For example, heat could be transferred from theconductive member 14 to a solid heat conductor, heat sink, or heat storage device, such as, but not limited to, a mass of ceramic, brick, stone, etc. -
FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of themagnetic heater 2 wherein thefluid path 16 is defined so that at least a portion thereof extends between themagnets 12 of themagnet assembly 20 and theconductive member 14 in accordance with embodiments. Thefluid path 16 extends substantially parallel with theconductive member 14 and themagnets 12, between themagnets 12 and theconductive member 14. - Suitable fluids for the particular purpose include, but are not limited to, gaseous fluids such as air and liquid fluids such as water. When the
conductive member 14 is heated, fluid in thefluid path 16 receives heat fromconductive member 14. Heat transfer from theconductive member 14 to fluid in thefluid path 16 may occur via one or more of conduction, convection, and radiation. -
FIGS. 7 and 8 are side and front views of an embodiment of themagnetic heater 2 further comprising afluid driver 34 engaged with afluid path 16 for driving fluid therethrough, in accordance with embodiments. Thefluid driver 34 comprises a plurality offins 35 or blades and adriver shaft 36. Examples of suitablefluid drivers 34 include, but are not limited to, finned rotors, squirrel cages, and fans. In the embodiment ofFIG. 7 , thedriver shaft 36 extends through anaperture 37 in theconductive member 14 and is coupled to theframe 22 on which themagnets 12 are arranged. The driving action is provided by rotation of theframe 22, which turns thefluid driver 34 in a predetermined direction. Thus, the speed of operation of thefluid driver 34 therein depends on the speed of motion of theframe 22, and likewise the rate of fluid flow within thefluid path 16. In other embodiments, thedriver shaft 36 is coupled to, among other things, theshaft 18 or an external energy source. - In an embodiment wherein the
conductive member 14 rather than theframe 22 moves to produce the cyclically varying magnetic field, thefluid driver 34 is driven by the rotation of theconductive member 14. - It is appreciated that the temperature to which fluid passing through the
fluid path 16 is heated depends on the rate of heat generation in theconductive member 14, that is, on the amount of heat available to warm the fluid. Also, the temperature of the fluid depends on the rate at which the fluid moves through thefluid path 16, that is, on how much fluid is available to absorb the heat that is generated. Further, the temperature of the fluid depends on the efficiency of theconductive member 14 is releasing its heat to the fluid. - Also because the parameters, including rate of heat generation, rate of fluid flow, and fluid temperature, are independent of one another as described in some embodiments herein, a
magnetic heater 2 in accordance with embodiments is used to produce a specific temperature of fluid in combination with a specific quantity of fluid flow. Any two of the three parameters can be controlled independently of one another. - The energy source used to drive the
shaft 18 can comprise any suitable means. - In embodiments, the
shaft 18 is coupled with a power take-off found on some motor vehicles, such as, but not limited to, many tractors, other agricultural vehicles, and heavy work vehicles. In such vehicles, some or all of the mechanical driving force generated by the engine is transferred to the power take-off to impart rotation, such as to theshaft 18. Conventional power take-offs include a rotatable coupling or other movable component, which is engaged with a linkage to impart rotation to theshaft 18. - In other embodiments, the
shaft 18 comprises a hydraulic linkage. Certain vehicles include hydraulic systems, such as, but not limited to, for actuating a snow plow or shovel blade, for tipping a truck bed, or for operating a fork lift. The hydraulic system is operable to couple with a piece of supplemental equipment, such as a hydraulic motor, with suitable linkage operable to couple with theshaft 18, to provide power thereto. Hydraulic systems and hydraulic linkages are known in the art, and are not described in detail herein. - Various embodiments are anticipated so as to control the rate of heat output of the
magnetic heater 2. -
FIGS. 9A and 9B are side cross-sectional views of themagnetic heater 2 ofFIG. 1 , further comprising a spacing actuator 26 for varying the conductor/magnet spacing X1, in accordance with an embodiment. The spacing actuator 26 varies the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between the conductive memberfirst side 15 and thefirst magnet surface 13 along the x-axis. - The strength of the magnetic field exerted on a given portion of the
conductive member 14 depends in part on the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between themagnets 12 and theconductive member 14. A change in the conductor/magnet spacing X1 changes the magnetic field strength to which theconductive member 14 is exposed, and thus changes the range of variation of the magnetic field over a cycle (the cyclical variation of the magnetic field), which changes the rate at which heat is generated in theconductive member 14. For permanent magnets, the cyclical variation of the magnetic field is accomplished while the absolute magnitude of the magnetic field strength remains substantially constant. - Reducing the conductor/magnet spacing X1 increases the magnetic field strength on the
conductive member 14 and increases the magnetic induction, thus increasing the heating of theconductive member 14. Increasing the conductor/magnet spacing X1 reduces the magnetic field strength on theconductive member 14 and reduces the magnetic induction, thus reducing the heating of theconductive member 14. - In embodiments wherein it is desirable to enable a relatively high maximum rate of heat generation, it is desirable that a minimum value of the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between the
conductive member 14 and themagnets 12 be as small as is practical. Similarly, in embodiments wherein it is desirable to enable a high range of variability in the rate of heat generation, it is desirable that the range of possible values for the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between theconductive member 14 and themagnets 12 is relatively large. - The conductor/magnet spacing X1 is a parameter that is independent of the rate of motion of the
magnets 12 with respect to theconductive member 14, and thus independent of the rate of cyclical variation of the magnetic field. Thus, the rate of heat generation of themagnetic heater 2 is adjustable by varying the conductor/magnet spacing X1 without changing the period of cyclical variation of the magnet magnetic field. - Likewise, the conductor/magnet spacing X1 is independent of the absolute magnetic field strength of the
magnets 12. Thus, the rate of heat generation of themagnetic heater 2 is adjustable by varying the conductor/magnet spacing X1 without changing the absolute magnetic field strength of themagnets 12. What is changing with varying the conductor/magnet spacing X1, among other things, is the magnitude of the magnetic field that theconductive member 14 is exposed to. The rate of heat generation of themagnetic heater 2 is adjustable while it is generating heat by adjusting the conductor/magnet spacing X1. - The spacing actuator 26 is engaged with either the
magnet assembly 20 or theconductive member 14 so as to vary the conductor/magnet spacing X1 therebetween. In other embodiments, themagnetic heater 2 comprises separate spacing actuators 26 engaged with themagnet assembly 20 and theconductive member 14. Such arrangements facilitate adjustment of the conductor/magnet spacing X1, and consequently facilitates adjustment of the rate of heat generation. In an embodiment, the spacing actuator 26 is used to facilitate adjustment of the conductor/magnet spacing X1 while themagnetic heater 2 is generating heat. - A variety of actuators are suitable for use as the spacing actuator 26. In one embodiment, as schematically illustrated in
FIGS. 9A and 9B , the spacing actuator 26 is a simple linear actuator, engaged with theconductive member 14 to move it toward or away from themagnet assembly 20, thereby adjusting the conductor/magnet spacing from X1 to X2. - In an embodiment, the spacing actuator 26 is a manual actuator, such as, but not limited to, a threaded screw controlled by a hand-turned knob. In other embodiments, the spacing actuator 26 is a powered actuator, such as, but not limited to, an electrically or hydraulically driven mechanism.
- Referring again to
FIG. 7 , themagnetic heater 2 further comprises acontroller 38. Thecontroller 38 is in communication with the spacing actuator 26, so as to control the conductor/magnet spacing X1. Thecontroller 38 also is in communication with theshaft 18, so as to control the speed of motion of themagnet assembly 20, and therefore, themagnets 12, which derive their motion from theshaft 18, wherein the output of the motive device driving theshaft 18 is variable and controllable. - The
fluid driver 34 is engaged with themagnet assembly 20 so that the speed of operation of thefluid driver 34, and consequently the rate of fluid flow along thefluid path 16, also is determined by the speed of motion of themagnet assembly 20. - The
controller 38 inFIG. 7 thus controls the rate of heat generation by controlling the conductor/magnet spacing X1, and also controls the rate of fluid flow by controlling the rate at which thefluid driver 34 operates. By controlling these two parameters independently, the temperature of the fluid also can be controlled as described previously. - A variety of devices are suitable for use as a
controller 38, including, but not limited to, integrated circuits. Controllers are known in the art, and are not described further herein. - Although the embodiment in
FIG. 7 shows thecontroller 38 in communication withvarious sensors controller 38 controls the operation of themagnetic heater 2 without sensors or data therefrom. In embodiments, thecontroller 38 comprises stored data and/or a pre-calculated algorithm, based on, among other things, the design of themagnetic heater 2 and the performance of similarmagnetic heaters 2. Thecontroller 38 controls themagnetic heater 2 to produce the desired levels of heat generation, fluid temperature, and/or rate of fluid flow, without the need for active sensors to monitor the parameters of themagnetic heater 2 itself. - The embodiment in
FIG. 7 includes afluid temperature sensor 40, for sensing the temperature of fluid moving along thefluid path 16. It also includes a fluidflow rate sensor 42, for sensing the rate of fluid flow through thefluid path 16. It further includes a drive sensor 44, for sensing the rate at which themagnet assembly 20 is driven by theshaft 18. Thecontroller 38 is in communication with each of thesensors - Based on data from the
sensors controller 38 adjusts the speed of themagnet assembly 20, the speed of thefluid driver 34, and/or the conductor/magnet spacing X1, so as to control heat generation, fluid temperature, and/or fluid flow. - It is emphasized that the arrangement of the
sensors sensors FIG. 7 . In other embodiments, other sensors are included in themagnetic heater 2 in addition to or in place of those shown. - In an embodiment, the
magnetic heater 2 comprises an additional sensor operable to sense the conductor/magnet spacing X1 between themagnets 12 and theconductive member 14. - A variety of sensors are suitable for use in a
magnetic heater 2 according to embodiments, depending upon the particulars of the specific embodiment of themagnetic heater 2 and the type of information that is to be sensed. Sensors are known in the art, and are not described further herein. -
FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of amagnetic heater 4 in accordance with an embodiment. Aconductive member 14 comprises a conductive memberfirst side 15 a and a conductive membersecond side 15 b. Afirst magnet assembly 20 a comprising afirst frame 22 a and a plurality offirst magnets 12 a thereon is disposed a first spacing X3 away from the conductive memberfirst side 15 a. Similarly, asecond magnet assembly 20 b comprising asecond frame 22 b and a plurality ofsecond magnets 12 b thereon is disposed a second spacing X4 away from the conductive membersecond side 15 b of theconductive member 14. - The first and
second magnet assemblies second sides magnets second sides conductive member 14. In an embodiment wherein the first andsecond magnet assemblies -
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional partial view of the embodiment ofFIG. 10 , wherein different polarities of opposing first andsecond magnets conductive member 14, to present a predetermined gradient in the magnetic field. In another embodiment (not shown), the same polarity of opposing first andsecond magnets conductive member 14, to present a predetermined gradient in the magnetic field that is produced. -
FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a multi-stagemagnetic heater 6, in accordance with an embodiment. As with the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 , the embodiment ofFIG. 10 may be conveniently expanded by the use of additionalconductive members 14 andmagnet assemblies 20. The embodiment ofFIG. 12 comprises an arrangement with threeconductive members 14 a-c and fourmagnet assemblies 20 a-d. It is noted that the number ofconductive members 14 andmagnet assemblies 20 is exemplary only, and that other numbers and arrangements may be suitable for a particular purpose. Afluid driver 34 is shown adjacent theconductive members 14 andmagnet assemblies 20. - The multi-stage
magnetic heater 6 further comprises support bracing 90 coupling the plurality ofmagnet assemblies 20 a-d in relative axial alignment. It is appreciated that the operation of themagnetic heater 6 is effective whether themagnet assemblies 20 a-d or theconductive members 14 a-c are driven to rotation by theshaft 18. -
FIGS. 13A and 13B are assembled and exploded views, respectively, of amagnetic heater apparatus 8 in accordance with an embodiment. Themagnetic heater apparatus 8 comprises arear housing 94, afirst end panel 91, aheater housing 92, amagnetic heater 6, asecond end panel 93, ablower housing 96, and anair intake screen 97. - The
magnetic heater 4, in accordance with the embodiment ofFIG. 10 , comprises ashaft 18, afirst magnet assembly 20 a, aconductive member 14, asecond magnet assembly 20 b and afluid driver 34. The first andsecond magnet assemblies magnets 12. Theconductive member 14 is disposed between and coaxial with the first andsecond magnet assemblies conductive member 14 is coupled with theshaft 18 and operable to rotate with respect to the first andsecond magnet assemblies shaft 18 is operable to couple with an energy source, such as, but lot limited to, amotor 103. - The
rear housing 94 is coupled adjacent thefirst end panel 91, both comprising apertures to allow theshaft 18 to pass there through. The first end plate is coupled adjacent theheater housing 92 defining a volume operable to contain the first andsecond magnet assemblies conductive member 14. Thesecond end panel 93 is coupled adjacent theheater housing 92 defining a side of the volume. Theheater housing 92 comprises afluid outlet 102. Thesecond end panel 93 comprises a secondend plate aperture 95 defining a portion of a fluid path. Thefluid driver 34 is coupled to theshaft 18 and located adjacent thesecond end panel 93 on the opposite side from thesecond magnet assembly 20 b. Theblower housing 96 is coupled adjacent thesecond end panel 93 enclosing thefluid driver 34 there between. Theblower housing 96 defines afluid inlet aperture 87 defining a portion of the fluid path. Theair intake screen 97 is coupled to theblower housing 96 covering thefluid inlet aperture 87. - A fluid path is defined by the
fluid inlet aperture 87, thefluid driver 34, the secondend plate aperture 95, theheater housing 92 and thefluid outlet 102. Fluid is drawn into thefluid inlet aperture 87 by the rotation of thefluid driver 34. Thefluid driver 34 directs the fluid through the secondend plate aperture 95 and circulates the fluid past theconductive member 14 in theheater housing 92. Theheater housing 92 directs the fluid to thefluid outlet 102. - The
magnetic heater apparatus 8 further comprises a spacing adjustment assembly comprising aknob 99, a threadedspacer 105 having a firstspacer end 108 and a secondspacer end 109, afirst retention coupler 107 and asecond retention coupler 106. Thefirst retention coupler 107 is positioned adjacent thefirst magnet assembly 20 a and thesecond retention coupler 106 is positioned adjacent thesecond magnet assembly 20 b. The threadedspacer 105 is disposed between the first andsecond magnet assemblies spacer end 108 coupled with thefirst retention coupler 107. The secondspacer end 109 is passed through thesecond retention coupler 106 and coupled to theknob 99. Turning theknob 99 in a first direction reduces the spacing between the first andsecond magnet assemblies knob 99 in the opposite direction increases the spacing between the first andsecond magnet assemblies -
FIGS. 14A and 14B are exploded perspective and cross-sectional side views, respectively, of amagnetic heater apparatus 7 in accordance with an embodiment. Themagnetic heater apparatus 7 comprises ablower 199 and amagnetic heater 3. Theblower 199 comprises amotor mount 191, amotor 103, ablower housing 196,blower fan 134, ablower housing sleeve 192, and anair intake screen 197. Themagnetic heater 3 comprises amagnet assembly 20 and aconductive member 14 that is an element of theblower fan 134 as described below. - Those in the air-moving arts will recognize that the
blower 199 is substantially of the known squirrel-cage blower configuration. Theblower housing 196 defines anannular volume 195 in fluid communication with anaxial inlet 193 and atangential outlet 194. - The
blower fan 134 comprises a plurality offan blades 198 coupled to theconductive member 14. Theconductive member 14 is in the form of a disk-shaped plate of substantially the same configuration as the embodiment of FIG. 3. Themagnet assembly 20 is also of substantially the same configuration as the embodiment ofFIG. 3 . Themagnet assembly 20 comprises anaxial shaft annulus 23. Themagnet assembly 20 is coaxially located within theannular volume 195. Theblower fan 134 is coaxially located within theannular volume 195 such that theconductive member 14 of theblower fan 134 is located co-axially andadjacent magnet assembly 20. Theblower housing sleeve 192 is coupled to theblower housing 196 about theaxial inlet 193 located co-axially with and adjacent to theblower fan 134 and operable to guide air flow from theaxial inlet 193 to theblower fan 134. Theair intake screen 197 is coupled to theblower housing 196 so as to cover theaxial inlet 193. - It is anticipated that in other embodiments, the
blower housing sleeve 192 is an integral part of theblower housing 196 in consideration of engineering preference. - The
motor mount 191 is coupled to theblower housing 196, and themotor 103 is coupled to themotor mount 191 such that ashaft 18 of themotor 103 is located coaxially with themagnet assembly 20 and theblower fan 134 extending into theannular volume 195. Theshaft 18 extends into theannular volume 195, passing through theshaft annulus 23 of themagnet assembly 20, and is coupled in operative engagement to theconductive member 14, so as to rotate theconductive member 14, and thus theblower fan 134, when in operation. Themagnet assembly 20 is coupled to and fixed theblower housing 196. In operation, theconductive member 14 is rotated relative to thestationary magnet assembly 20, whereby theconductive member 14 is heated due to inductive heating from a time-varying magnetic flux induced by themagnet assembly 20. - It is anticipated that in other embodiments the
motor 103 is mounted to theblower housing 196 in any suitable manner, in consideration of engineering preference. - In operation, air is drawn into the
axial inlet 193, directed by theblower housing sleeve 192, by theblower fan 134. The air passes over theconductive member 14 wherein the heat generated by themagnetic heater 3 is transferred to the air. The heated air is subsequently exhausted out of thetangential outlet 194. In other embodiments, thefan blades 198 are operable to act as heat sinks for the transfer of heat from theconductive member 14 to the air. -
FIG. 15 is a front view of amagnetic heater 9, in accordance with an embodiment.FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of the magnetic heater ofFIG. 15 along cut line CL16-CL16. Themagnetic heater 9 comprises a plurality ofconductor assemblies magnet assemblies shaft 18. Each of the plurality ofmagnet assemblies 60 are coupled to theshaft 18, such that themagnet assemblies 60 rotate relative to theconductor assemblies 50 when the shaft is rotated. - It is appreciated that in other embodiments, the
magnetic heater 9 may comprise one ormore conductor assemblies 50 and one ormore magnet assemblies 60 suitable for a particular purpose. By way of example, but not limited thereto, a magnetic heater may have oneconductor assembly 50 and onemagnet assembly 60; oneconductor assembly 50 and twomagnet assemblies 60, onemagnet assembly 60 on either side of theconductor assembly 50; onemagnet assembly 60 and twoconductor assemblies 50, oneconductor assembly 50 on either side of themagnet assembly 60; and combinations of the above. One can understand that heat output is related to the number ofconductor assemblies 50 andmagnet assemblies 60 and that the magnetic heater provides a modular approach for providing heat output. -
FIG. 17 is a partial cutaway detailed view of the side cross-sectional view ofFIG. 16 . Themagnet assembly 60 comprises one ormore magnets 12 and is operable to dispose the one ormore magnets 12 in close proximity to theconductor assembly 50. -
FIG. 18 is a partially exploded view of themagnetic heater 9 ofFIGS. 15-17 . Themagnetic heater 9 comprises a first, second andthird conductor assembly 50 a-b in alternating arrangement with a first, second, third, andfourth magnet assembly 60 a-c. Theconductor assemblies 50 a-b andmagnet assemblies 60 a-c are disposed upon ashaft 18, which itself is supported by a pair of pillow blocks 72. Theconductor assemblies 50 a-b andmagnet assemblies 60 a-c are spaced apart a predetermined distance and held together as an assembly by a plurality ofbushings 70,collars 71, and the pillow blocks 72. Themagnetic heater 9 is operable such that themagnet assemblies 60 a-c are coupled to theshaft 18 and rotate relative to theconductor assemblies 50 a-b when theshaft 18 is rotated. -
FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of amagnet assembly 60 of themagnetic heater 9 ofFIG. 15 . Themagnet assembly 60 comprises amagnet plate 61 in the form of a substantially circular disk. Disposed on a side of themagnet plate 61 and a predetermined distance adjacent the magnet plateperipheral edge 69 are a plurality of magnet pockets 19 operable to at least partially receive at least onemagnet 12 therein. Themagnets 12 are retained within the magnet pockets 19 by a plurality ofretainer plates 63. Theretainer plates 63 comprise a plurality offastener apertures 66 operable to receivesuitable fasteners 64 there through. The fastener apertures 66 are operable to align with threadedbores 67 disposed in themagnet plate 61. Theretainer plates 63 engage themagnets 12 and themagnet plate 61 to retain themagnets 12 within respective magnet pockets 19. - Referring again to
FIG. 17 , theretainer plates 63 comprise a plurality of retainer pockets 68 complementary with the magnet pockets 19 and operable to receive at least onemagnet 12 therein. In other embodiments, either the magnet pockets 19 or the retainer pockets 68 are operable to receive themagnet 12 entirely therein, and either theretainer plate 63 or themagnet plate 61, respectively, comprise a substantially flat surface to contain themagnet 12 therein. - The
magnet plate 61 further comprises acentral shaft aperture 65 operable to receive theshaft 18 there through. - It is appreciated that in other embodiments, the
magnet assembly 60 may comprise one ormore magnets 12 suitable for a particular purpose. Themagnet 12 provides a time-varying magnetic flux on theconductor assembly 50 when there is relative movement of themagnet 12 with respect to theconductor assembly 50. Such magnetic flux may be provided by one ormore magnets 12. Further, the size and shape of themagnet 12 can be chosen to provide a predetermined magnetic flux density suitable for a particular purpose. In yet other embodiments, there is provided multiple rows ofmagnets 12 spaced apart in the radial direction from theshaft aperture 65. - Further, it is appreciated that in other embodiments, the
magnet assembly 60 may take other forms suitable for a particular purpose for providing themagnets 12 in close proximity to theconductor assembly 50. Themagnets 12 can be coupled to the magnet plate by other fastening means, including, but not limited to, fasteners, adhesives, and coatings, with or without theretainer plate 63. In embodiments wherein themagnet assembly 60 is rotated, the means of retention of themagnets 12 to themagnet plate 61 must withstand the forces tending to decouple and throw themagnets 12 from themagnet plate 61. -
FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of aconductor assembly 50 of themagnetic heater 9 ofFIG. 15 . Theconductor assembly 50 comprises a pair ofconductor plates peripheral edge 55 in fluid-tight engagement by aframe 51. At least one of the pair ofconductor plates conductor plate conductor plate - The
frame 51 is operable to retain theconductor plates fluid space 56 there between. Agasket 59 seals theperipheral edge 55 of theconductor plates fluid space 56. It is appreciated that suitable means for fluid-tight sealing is provided, such as, but not limited to, welding, brazing, soldering, theframe 51, coatings, and resilient sealing elements, such as, but not limited to, an “O-ring” and gasket. - The
conductor plates bushing aperture 53 operable to receive thebushing 70 therein. Abushing aperture seal 54 about thebushing aperture 53 and operable to engage theconductor plates bushing aperture 53 is operable to maintain fluid-tight engagement there between to retain fluid within thefluid space 56. - Referring again to
FIGS. 15 and 18 , theconductor assembly 50 further comprises afluid inlet 57 and afluid outlet 58, in communication with thefluid space 56. Referring toFIG. 20 , thefluid inlet 57 andoutlet 58 are an element of one or both of theconductor plates conductor assembly 50 is operable such that fluid may be passed between thefluid inlet 57, thefluid space 56, and thefluid outlet 58 sufficient to provide efficient heat transfer from theconductor plates conductor plates -
FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of an engine-drivenheat generation system 100, in accordance with an embodiment. The engine-drivenheat generation system 100 provides heat to external applications via a working fluid supplied to a suitableexternal heat exchanger 126 as described below. The engine-drivenheat generation system 100 comprises aninternal combustion engine 110, amagnetic heater 9, such as, but not limited to, the embodiment ofFIG. 18 , and afluid handling system 130. A drive coupling of theengine 110 drives or rotates themagnet assemblies 60 within themagnetic heater 9 which in turn heats theconductor plates conductor assemblies 50. - The
fluid handling system 130 comprises a workingfluid handling system 120, anengine cooling system 112, and anexhaust system 129. The workingfluid handling system 120 comprises afluid reservoir 121, amanifold flow control 122, anexhaust heat exchanger 123, acoolant heat exchanger 124, and one or more circulatingpumps 127, all in fluid communication operable to circulate the working fluid therein. Themanifold flow control 122 is operable to direct the working fluid to themagnetic heater 9, theexhaust heat exchanger 123, and thecoolant heat exchanger 124. - The heat generated by the
magnetic heater 9 is transferred to the working fluid passing within themagnetic heater 9. The working fluid is collected in thefluid reservoir 121 and either directed again through themanifold flow control 122 or directed to anexternal heat exchanger 126 by way of anexternal manifold 125, or a combination thereof. Theexternal manifold 125 is operable to provide one or more fluid take-offs to supply the heated working fluid and return cooled working fluid to/from one or moreexternal heat exchangers 126. - The
engine cooling system 112 comprises acoolant reservoir 114 for a coolant fluid in fluid communication with theengine 110 and thecoolant heat exchanger 124. The coolant fluid circulates within theengine 110, wherein the heat from the structure of theengine 110 is transferred to the coolant fluid and subsequently transferred to the working fluid in thecoolant heat exchanger 124. In this way, the heat from theengine 110 as well as the heat from themagnetic heater 9 is used to heat the working fluid. - The
engine 110 produces hot exhaust gas as a product of combustion which is directed external to theengine 110 by anexhaust manifold 128. Theexhaust system 129 comprises theexhaust heat exchanger 123 which is in fluid communication with theexhaust manifold 128 and is operable to transfer the heat from the exhaust of theengine 110 to the working fluid. In this way, the heat from the exhaust as well as the heat from themagnetic heater 9 is used to heat the working fluid. - The engine-driven
heat generation system 100, therefore, utilizes the heat of the structure and the heat from the exhaust of theengine 110 to augment the heat from themagnetic heater 9 to efficiently provide a heated working fluid for use in external applications. - It is appreciated that a variety of configurations of an engine-driven heat generation system may be utilized, depending on engineering design preferences and constraints.
FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of another engine-drivenheat generation system 200, in accordance with another embodiment. The engine-drivenheat generation system 200 comprises aninternal combustion engine 110, amagnetic heater 9, such as, but not limited to, the embodiment ofFIG. 18 , and afluid handling system 230. The configuration and function is substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 21 , but this embodiment comprises anengine 110 having twoexhaust manifolds exhaust heat exchangers respective exhaust manifolds supply manifold 125 a and areturn manifold 125 b. - The applications for utilizing the heat generated by the engine-driven
heat generation system heat generation system - In an embodiment, the heated working fluid is passed through a heat exchanger that is part of a forced-air ventilation system to provide heated air to a building. In another embodiment, the working fluid is passed through hoses that are laid out on the ground and covered with a covering so as to heat the ground, such as to thaw out frozen ground for excavation. In yet another application, the working fluid is passed through a heat exchanger of a hot water supply system that is submerged in a tank of water so as to heat the water for use. These are but a few of the vast number of applications suitable for use with the engine-driven
heat generation system - The engine-driven
heat generation system -
FIGS. 23 , 24 and 25 are partially exploded and assembled perspective views, respectively, of a split-conductormagnetic heater assembly 302 comprising a split-conductormagnetic heater 304 and aframe 312, in accordance with an embodiment. Theframe 312 is operable to support various elements of the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 as well as providing a platform for ancillary components of a larger system. The split-conductormagnetic heater 304 comprises amagnet unit 62 and a first half-conductor unit 352 a and a second half-conductor unit 352 b in opposing relationship to each other. The first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are operable to move laterally into and out ofmagnet assembly spaces 160 defined by themagnet unit 62 and thus, moving the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b substantially into and out of magnetic engagement with themagnet unit 62, as will be explained below. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 23 , themagnet unit 62 comprises a first, second, third, andfourth magnet assembly 60 a-d of substantially the same configuration as provided by the embodiment of themagnet assembly 60 a ofFIG. 19 , though it is understood that any magnet assembly embodiment previously presented is suitable for the particular purpose. Themagnet assemblies 60 a-d are carried and driven in rotation by adrive shaft 18 which itself is supported by a pair of pillow blocks 72, and held together as an assembly by a plurality ofbushings 70,collars 71, and the pillow blocks 72 (one shown), substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 18 , though it is understood that other support and retention means are suitable for the particular purpose. Themagnet assemblies 60 a-d are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance definingmagnet assembly spaces 160, as previously presented and as will be explained further below. Themagnet assemblies 60 a-d are coupled to theshaft 18 and rotate relative to the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b when theshaft 18 is rotated. It is understood that in other embodiments, themagnet unit 62 comprises one or more magnet assemblies suitable for a particular purpose and complementary to the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b. - The first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b together define a first, second andthird conductor assembly 350 a-c each of which comprise a pair of two half-conductor assemblies: a pair of first half-conductor assemblies 350 a 1, 350 a 2, a pair of second half-conductor assemblies 350b b 2, and a pair of third half-conductor assemblies 350 c 1, 350c 2, respectively. The first half-conductor unit 352 a comprises one half-conductor assembly of each pair of half-conductor assemblies coupled together in spaced-apart, parallel arrangement and the second half-conductor unit 352 b comprises the other half-conductor assembly of each pair of half-conductor assemblies coupled together in spaced-apart, parallel arrangement. The first half-conductor unit 352 a, therefore, comprises the first half-conductor assembly 350 a 1, the second half-conductor assembly 350b 1, and the third half-conductor assembly 350 c 1, and the second half-conductor unit 352 b comprises the first half-conductor assembly 350 a 2, the second half-conductor assembly 350b 2, and the third half-conductor assembly 350c 2. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b comprise one or more half-conductor assemblies suitable for a particular purpose and complementary to themagnet unit 62. The half-conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 comprise internal and external fluid handling means substantially similar to that described for the embodiment ofFIG. 20 . - The first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b are operable to translate transversely with respect to and on opposite sides of the axis of thedrive shaft 18 between a first, disengaged position as shown inFIG. 24 and a second engaged position as shown inFIG. 25 . The first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are operable such that when translated towards thedrive shaft 18, the corresponding pairs of half-conductor assemblies of each of the first, second andthird conductor assemblies 350 a-c translate substantially co-planar towards each other until substantially adjacent each other in edge-to-edge orientation with each half-conductor assembly translating at least partially into the space betweenrespective magnet assemblies 60 a-d. - The first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b comprise a means for translating respective half-conductor assemblies into and out of the space between corresponding magnet assemblies. In the embodiment ofFIG. 23 , the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b comprise a plurality of slotted wheels 326: fourwheels 326 on anupper side 332 of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b wherein the wheels' axes of rotation are substantially coplanar; and fourwheels 326 on thelower side 333 of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b wherein the wheels' axes of rotation are substantially coplanar. - Two pairs of parallel tracks, upper tracks 238 a and
lower tracks 328 b, are provided on theframe 312 and are operable to accept and guide thewheels 326 on theupper side 332 and thelower side 333 of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b, respectively. Thetracks 328 a,b are substantially parallel with respect to each other and substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the axis of thedrive shaft 18. The upper tracks 238 a are positioned on one side of the axis of thedrive shaft 18 and thelower tracks 328 b are positioned on the opposite side of the axis of thedrive shaft 18. The axis of rotation of thewheels 326 is substantially parallel with the axis of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. Thewheels 326 of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are slidingly received onto opposite ends of the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b and are operable to translate along a portion of the length of the tracks 328, such that the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b may translate substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - The split-conductor
magnetic heater assembly 302 further comprises a drive means suitable for driving the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b. The drive means shown inFIG. 23 comprises amotor 320, ascrew drive shaft 322, and screwdrive engagement element 324. Thescrew drive shaft 322 comprises afirst shaft end 323 a having threads of a first direction and asecond shaft end 323 b having threads of an opposite second direction. Thescrew drive shaft 322 is positioned parallel to the tracks 328 and perpendicular to the orientation of the axis of thedrive shaft 18, such that the first and second shaft halves 323 a,b are on opposite sides of the axis of thedrive shaft 18. - The
motor 320 is operable to rotate thescrew drive shaft 322 in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction. Each screw-drive engagement element 324 is coupled to one of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b and engaged with one of the first and second shaft halves 323 a,b. Thescrew drive shaft 322 is threadably engaged with the screw-drive engagement elements 324 and operable such that when the screw-drive shaft 322 is rotated in a first direction, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are driven towards each other and towards thedrive shaft 18, and when rotated in a second, opposite direction, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are driven away from each other and away from thedrive shaft 18. - It is appreciated that one skilled in the art will recognize many other means for translating the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b. Such other means include, but are not limited to, pulleys, gears, linear actuators, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, among many others. It is also understood that the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b may be driven independently of each other by providing two drive means. - The length of the upper and
lower tracks 328 a,b and thus the distance of travel of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b is predetermined to cover a range of travel such that at a first position, referred to as the disengaged position, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are positioned away from themagnet assembly 60 as shown inFIG. 24 , wherein they are substantially not magnetically engaged therewith, to a second, engaged position, wherein the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are interleaved with themagnet assembly 60, as shown inFIG. 25 , where they are substantially magnetically engaged therewith. - The first, second, and
third conductor assemblies 350 a-c, and the first, second, third, andfourth magnet assemblies 60 a-d are spaced apart a predetermined distance definingconductor plate spaces 150 andmagnet assembly spaces 160, respectively, such that in the engaged position, each of the first, second, andthird conductor assemblies 350 a-c are positioned in alternating, interleaved arrangement within themagnet assembly spaces 160 between the first, second, third, andfourth magnet assemblies 60 a-d. Each of the half-conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 further comprise a half-circular aperture 331 so as to accommodate thedrive shaft 18 and/or bushings therein and not interfere therewith when the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are in the engaged position. - Magnetic engagement is defined as a conductor assembly at least partially under the influence of a magnetic field produced by a magnet assembly resulting when the conductor assembly and magnet assembly are at least partially in facing relationship. As discussed previously, the rotation of the magnet assembly adjacent the conductor assembly causes an eddy current to be set up in the conductor assembly due to the changing magnetic field produced by the movement of the magnets of the rotating magnet assembly. The current in the conductor assembly moves in such a way as to produce heat in the conductor assembly. The faster the magnet assembly is rotated, the stronger the currents induced in the conductor assembly and therefore the greater the heating of the conductor assembly.
- The position of the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b relative to themagnet unit 62 will determine the amount of heating of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b, from a minimum in the disengaged position to a maximum in the engaged position. As the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are translated over the range from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the amount of magnetic engagement with themagnet assemblies 60 a-d is increased, increasing the heating of thehalf conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 and thus the fluid passing therein. By selectively positioning the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b, the heating of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b, and therefore the heat output of the split-conductormagnetic heater 304, can be controlled independently from the speed of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - In other embodiments of the magnetic heater, the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b. - In yet other embodiments, each of the
first conductor assembly 350 a,second conductor assembly 350b 1, andthird conductor assembly 350 c, translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one or more of the first, second andthird conductor assembly - In yet other embodiments, each of the half-
conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2, translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one or more of the half-conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2. - In yet other embodiments, the magnetic heater comprises one or more conductor assemblies that are not limited to pairs of half-conductor assemblies. In an embodiment, each of the
first conductor assembly 350 a,second conductor assembly 350b 1, andthird conductor assembly 350 c, comprises one conductor assembly having a slot extending through an edge to beyond the center of the conductor assembly so as to allow the passing of the drive shaft therein when the conductor assembly is translated between a disengaged and engaged position. -
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of aconductor assembly 450 comprising aslot 452, in accordance with an embodiment. Theslot 452 extends through an edge to beyond the center of theconductor assembly 450 so as to allow the passing of the drive shaft therein when the conductor assembly is translated between a disengaged and engaged position. - It can be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the feature of translating half-conductor units, conductor assemblies, and half-conductor assemblies can be extended to other magnetic heater embodiments that do not necessarily have working fluid traversing within the conductor, such as, but not limited to, the embodiments of
FIGS. 1 , 6, 7 and 10, wherein the conductors areconductive members 14 in the form of solid plates. -
FIGS. 27 , 28, and 29 are perspective front and side views, respectively, of an engine-drivenheat generation system 1230, in accordance with an embodiment. Referring again toFIG. 22 ,FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an engine-drivenheat generation system 200 that is substantially similar to the engine-drivenheat generation system 1230 ofFIGS. 26 , 27 and 28. The engine-drivenheat generation system 1230 provides heat to external applications via a working fluid supplied to a suitableexternal heat exchanger 126 as previously described. The engine-drivenheat generation system 1230 comprises aninternal combustion engine 110, a split-conductormagnetic heater 304, such as, but not limited to, the embodiment ofFIG. 23 , and afluid handling system 230. A drive coupling (not shown) of theengine 110 drives or rotates thedrive shaft 18 and therefore themagnet unit 62 within the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 which in turn heats the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b when magnetically engaged. InFIGS. 26 , 27 and 28, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are in the non-engaged position for clarity. When magnetically engaged in the engaged position, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are heated, which in turn, heats the working fluid flowing therein. - The position of the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b relative to themagnet unit 62 will determine the amount of heating of the working fluid inside of thehalf conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2, from a minimum in the disengaged position to a maximum in the engaged position. As the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are translated from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the amount of magnetic engagement with themagnet unit 62 is increased, increasing the heating of the working fluid. By selectively positioning the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b, the heating of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b, and therefore the heat output of the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 via the working fluid, can be controlled independent of the speed of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - The
fluid handling system 230 comprises a workingfluid handling system 220, anengine cooling system 112, and anexhaust system 229. The workingfluid handling system 220 comprises afluid reservoir 121, amanifold flow control 122, a pair ofexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b, acoolant heat exchanger 124, and one or more circulating pumps (not shown), all in fluid communication operable to circulate the working fluid therein. Themanifold flow control 122 is operable to direct the working fluid to thehalf conductor assemblies 350 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 of the split-conductormagnetic heater 304, among other components. Thefluid reservoir 121 further comprises asupply coupling 155 and returncoupling 153 for coupling in fluid communication with a remote heat exchanger (not shown). - The heat generated by the split-conductor
magnetic heater 304 is transferred to the working fluid passing within the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b. The first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are coupled to thefluid reservoir 121 andmanifold flow control 122 viaflexible hoses 362 that are operable to accommodate for the movement of the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b. The external manifold (not shown) is operable to provide one or more fluid take-offs to supply the heated working fluid to one or more external heat exchangers (not shown) previously described in reference toFIG. 22 , and return cooled working fluid to thefluid reservoir 121. - The
engine cooling system 112 comprises acoolant reservoir 114 for a coolant fluid in fluid communication with theengine 110 and thecoolant heat exchanger 124. Themanifold flow control 122 is also operable to direct the working fluid to thecoolant heat exchanger 124. The coolant fluid circulates within theengine 110, wherein the heat from the structure of theengine 110 is transferred to the coolant fluid and subsequently transferred to the working fluid in thecoolant heat exchanger 124. Thecoolant heat exchanger 124 is coupled to themanifold flow control 122 and thefluid reservoir 121. In this way, the heat from theengine 110 as well as the heat from the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 is used to heat the working fluid. - The
engine 110 produces hot exhaust gas as a product of combustion which is directed external to theengine 110 by an exhaust manifold 128 (not shown inFIGS. 26-28 ). Theexhaust system 229 comprises a pair ofexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b which are in fluid communication with theexhaust manifold 128 and are operable to transfer the heat from the exhaust of theengine 110 to the working fluid. Themanifold flow control 122 is also operable to direct the working fluid to theexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b which in turn directs the working fluid to thefluid reservoir 121. In this way, the heat from the exhaust, heat from the engine coolant, as well as the heat from the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 is used to heat the working fluid. - It is appreciated that a variety of configurations of an engine-driven heat generation system may be utilized, depending on engineering design preferences and constraints.
- The feature of being able to translate the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b into and out of magnetic engagement with themagnet assembly 60 provides a number of significant advantages. One advantage is in terms of drive performance at start up. Where the conductor assemblies are not translatable with respect to the magnet assemblies, at all times, but particularly at engine startup, the conductor assemblies are magnetically engaged with the magnet assemblies, that is, the magnet assemblies are magnetically attracted to the conductor assemblies. The engine at startup must therefore overcome the magnetic attraction between the conductor assembly and the magnet assemblies that occurs in the rest state, referred to as startup torque, requiring a larger engine torque to overcome the startup torque. Where the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are disengaged from themagnet assembly 60 at startup, as provided in accordance with the embodiments and as shown inFIG. 26 , there is no magnetic torque for the engine to overcome at startup and therefore, a smaller engine with a lower torque may be used. - As discussed previously, the rotation of the magnet assembly adjacent the conductor assembly causes an eddy current to be set up in the conductor assembly due to the changing magnetic field produced by the movement of the magnets of the rotating magnet assembly. In accordance with Lenz's law, the current in the conductor assembly moves in such a way as to create a magnetic field opposing the changing magnetic field produced by the movement of the magnets, resulting in producing heat in the conductor assembly, but also producing a resistance to rotation, referred herein as magnetic torque, against which the drive means rotating the magnet assembly must work against (this discussion neglects the magnetic attraction of the conductor assembly to the magnet assembly experienced whether the magnet assembly is rotating or not). The faster the magnet assembly is rotated, the stronger the currents induced in the conductor assembly and therefore the stronger the magnetic torque which must be overcome.
- The magnetic torque is an important consideration when specifying the drive means for rotating a particular magnet assembly having a predetermined magnetic field strength to a predetermined rotation speed. Wherein the magnet assemblies is coupled directly to the engine drive shaft and that the conductor assemblies are always magnetically engaged with and not translatable with respect to the magnet assemblies, the drive means must be able to produce sufficient torque to overcome the magnetic torque from rest to the desired rotation speed. An efficient configuration would provide a drive means capable of producing slightly more torque than what is required for the range of rotation speed. This is not easy to achieve for many drive means.
- To explain further by way of example, an internal combustion engine of a given size may have a torque versus rotation speed curve that does not match the magnetic torque versus rotation speed curve for the magnetic heater. One of the engine or magnetic torques may have a greater slope of the torque versus rotation speed curve and/or the slope is not linear. A particular engine may have a preferred speed at which it operates efficiently and safely, for example, 2400 RPM (revolutions per minute). Assume that the magnet assembly is directly coupled to the engine drive shaft and that the conductor assemblies are always magnetically engaged with and not translatable with respect to the magnet assemblies. As the engine speed increases to a certain rotation speed for a particular engine/magnetic heater configuration, a speed that is below the preferred speed of 2400 RPM, say 1200 RPM, the magnetic torque becomes the same as the engine torque, at which point the engine will stall.
- One way to overcome the stall condition is to provide a clutch on the drive shaft between the engine and the magnet assembly, the clutch operable to engage and start the rotation of the magnet assembly after the engine attains a rotation speed above 1200 RPM so as to prevent the magnet torque from ever being the same or greater than the engine torque and thus prevent the engine from stalling. The clutch could be provided that engages the magnet assembly at the preferred rotation speed, 2400 RPM in this example, but a clutch capable of handling higher speeds and greater engine torques are large, heavy and expensive. The use of a clutch that engages the magnet assembly below the preferred rotation speed is likely to cause a mismatch of engine torque to magnetic torque at the preferred engine speed of 2400 RPM due to the mismatched torque versus rotation speed curves, and thus the system will be less efficient as the engine will be producing excess torque.
- Another way to overcome the stall condition is to provide an engine that supplies engine torque that is always greater than the magnetic torque over the range up to the preferred rotation speed. Again, it is likely that there will be a greater mismatch of engine torque to magnetic torque at the preferred engine speed of 2400 RPM and thus the system will be less efficient.
- Another way to overcome the stall condition as well as the inefficient operation at the preferred rotation speed is to provide a magnetic heater comprising a movable conductive assembly and having a magnetic torque optimally matched to the engine torque at the preferred rotation speed of the engine, and magnetically engaging the conductor assembly with the magnet assembly at a rotation speed greater than any rotation speed that would produce a magnetic torque equal to or greater than the engine torque that would cause the engine to stall, in accordance with an embodiment of a method. In the above example, the conductor assembly would engage the magnet assembly at a rotation speed above 1200 RPM sufficient to prevent the rotation speed from falling below the rotation speed required to maintain an engine torque greater than the magnetic torque. At the lower rotation speeds, the conductor assembly would be in the disengaged position wherein there is no magnetic engagement between the conductor assembly and the magnet assembly. At a predetermined rotation speed above which the engine torque is always greater than the magnetic torque, the conductor assembly is brought into magnetic engagement with the magnet assembly.
- In accordance with embodiments, a split-conductor
magnetic heater 304 of the embodiment ofFIG. 23 is operable to provide a magnetic torque that is optimized for efficient operation of a chosen engine, that is, a magnetic torque less than but closely approaching the engine torque at the preferred operating speed of the engine. The engine is started and brought up to the preferred speed with the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b in the disengaged position. The first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are then translated to the engaged position. At shut-down, the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b are translated to the disengaged position, and the engine is shut down. - Further, by virtue of the ability of translating the first and second half-
conductor units 352 a,b into and out of magnetic engagement with themagnet unit 62, the heat output can be varied without changing the speed of theengine 110. Therefore theengine 110 can be driven at its optimal speed and the heat output of the split-conductormagnetic heater 304 can be controlled by the drive means translating the first and second half-conductor units 352 a,b into a predetermined amount of magnetic engagement with themagnet unit 62. -
FIGS. 30 , 31 and 32 are partially exploded and two assembled perspective views, respectively, of a transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater assembly 402 comprising a transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 and aframe 312, in accordance with an embodiment. Theframe 312 is operable to support various elements of the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 as well as providing a platform for ancillary components of a larger system. The transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 comprises a conductor plate assembly 354 and a first half-magnet unit 162 a and a second half-magnet unit 162 b in opposing relationship to each other. The first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are operable to move laterally into and out ofconductor plate spaces 150 defined by the conductor plate assembly 354 and thus, moving the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b substantially into and out of magnetic engagement with the conductor plate assembly 354, as will be explained below. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 30-32 , the conductor plate assembly 354 comprises a first, second, third, andfourth conductor plates 350 a-d. Theconductor plates 350 a-d are substantially similar toconductive member 14 of the embodiment ofFIGS. 3 and 6 and, similarly, comprises an electrically conductive material suitable for the particular purpose. In other embodiments, theconductor plates 350 a-d may be a part of an air handling system such as shown inFIGS. 14A-B as ablower fan 134 comprising a plurality offan blades 198 coupled to theconductive member 14. - The
conductor plates 350 a-d are carried and driven in rotation by adrive shaft 18 which itself is supported by a pair of pillow blocks 72 (one shown), and held together as an assembly by a plurality ofbushings 70,collars 71, and the pillow blocks 72, substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 18 , though it is understood that other support and retention means are suitable for the particular purpose. Theconductor plates 350 a-d are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance definingconductor plate spaces 150 therebetween, as will be explained further below. Theconductor plates 350 a-d are coupled to thedrive shaft 18 and rotate relative to the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b when thedrive shaft 18 is rotated. It is understood that in other embodiments, the conductor plate assembly 354 comprises one ormore conductor plates 350 suitable for a particular purpose and complementary to the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b. - The first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b together define a first, second and
third magnet assembly 160 a-c each of which comprise a pair of two half-magnet assemblies: thefirst magnet assembly 160 a comprising a pair of first half-magnet assemblies 160 a 1, 160 a 2; thesecond magnet assembly 160 b comprising a pair of second half-magnet assemblies 160b b 2; and the third magnet assembly 160 c comprising a pair of third half-magnet assemblies 160 c 1, 160c 2, respectively. The first half-magnet unit 162 a comprises the first half-magnet assembly 160 a 1, the second half-magnet assembly 160b 1, and the third half-magnet assembly 160 c 1 coupled together in spaced-apart, parallel arrangement. The second half-magnet unit 162 b comprises the first half-magnet assembly 160 a 2, the second half-magnet assembly 160b 2, and the third half-magnet assembly 160 c 2 coupled together in spaced-apart, parallel arrangement. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b comprise one or more half-magnet assemblies suitable for a particular purpose and complementary to the conductor plate assembly 354. - Each of the half-
magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 comprises aframe 22 and one ormore magnets 12. Themagnets 12 are coupled to and arranged in a planar, generally semi-circular, spaced-apart, orientation on theframe 22. Themagnets 12 each have afirst magnet surface 13 in a substantially planar relationship, referred herein as thefirst magnet plane 21, substantially as shown inFIG. 1 . - The first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are operable to translate transversely with respect to and on opposite sides of the axis of the
drive shaft 18 between a first, disengaged position as shown inFIG. 31 and a second engaged position as shown inFIG. 32 . The first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are operable such that when translated towards thedrive shaft 18, the corresponding pairs of half-magnet assemblies of each of the first, second andthird magnet assemblies 160 a-c translate substantially co-planar towards each other until substantially adjacent each other in edge-to-edge orientation with each half-magnet assembly translating at least partially into theconductor plate spaces 150 betweenrespective conductor plates 350 a-d. - The first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b comprise a means for translating respective half-
magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 into and out of the space between corresponding conductor plates. In the embodiment ofFIG. 30 , the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b comprise a plurality of wheels 326: fourwheels 326 on anupper side 332 of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b wherein the wheels' axes of rotation are substantially coplanar; and fourwheels 326 on thelower side 333 of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b wherein the wheels' axes of rotation are substantially coplanar. - Two pairs of parallel tracks,
upper tracks 328 a andlower tracks 328 b, are provided on theframe 312 and are operable to accept and guide thewheels 326 on theupper side 332 and thelower side 333 of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b, respectively. Thetracks 328 a,b are substantially parallel with respect to each other and substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the axis of thedrive shaft 18. Theupper tracks 328 a are positioned on one side of thedrive shaft 18 and thelower tracks 328 b are positioned on the opposite side of thedrive shaft 18. The axis of rotation of thewheels 326 is substantially parallel with the axis of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. Thewheels 326 of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are slidingly received onto opposite ends of the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b and are operable to translate along a portion of the length of the tracks 328, such that the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b may translate substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - The transverse-moving magnet
magnetic heater assembly 402 further comprises a drive means suitable for driving the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b. The drive means shown inFIG. 30 comprises amotor 320, ascrew drive shaft 322, and screw-drive engagement element 324. Thescrew drive shaft 322 comprises afirst shaft end 323 a having threads of a first direction and asecond shaft end 323 b having threads of an opposite second direction. Thescrew drive shaft 322 is positioned parallel to the tracks 328 and perpendicular to the orientation of the axis of thedrive shaft 18, such that the first and second shaft halves 323 a,b are on opposite sides of the axis of thedrive shaft 18. - The
motor 320 is operable to rotate thescrew drive shaft 322 in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction. Each screw-drive engagement element 324 is coupled to one of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b and engaged with one of the first and second shaft halves 323 a,b. The screw-drive shaft 322 is threadably engaged with the screw-drive engagement elements 324 and operable such that when the screw-drive shaft 322 is rotated in a first direction, the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are driven towards each other and towards thedrive shaft 18, and when rotated in a second, opposite direction, the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are driven away from each other and away from thedrive shaft 18. - It is appreciated that many other means for translating the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b. Such other means include, but are not limited to, pulleys, gears, linear actuators, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, among many others. It is also understood that the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b may be driven independently of each other by providing two drive means.
- The length of the upper and
lower tracks 328 a,b and thus the distance of travel of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b is predetermined to cover a range of travel such that at a first position, referred to as the disengaged position, the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are positioned away from the conductor plate assembly 354 as shown inFIG. 31 , wherein they are substantially not magnetically engaged therewith, to a second, engaged position, wherein the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are interleaved with the conductor plate assembly 354, as shown inFIG. 32 , where they are substantially magnetically engaged therewith. - The first, second, and
third magnet assemblies 160 a-c, and the first, second, third, andfourth conductor plates 350 a-d are spaced apart a predetermined distance definingmagnet assembly spaces 160 andconductor plate spaces 150, respectively, such that in the engaged position, each of the first, second, andthird magnet assemblies 160 a-c are positioned in alternating, interleaved arrangement within theconductor plate spaces 150 between the first, second, third, andfourth conductor plates 350 a-d. Each of the half-magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 further comprise a half-circular aperture 331 so as to accommodate thedrive shaft 18 and/or bushings therein and not interfere therewith when the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are in the engaged position. - Magnetic engagement is defined as a conductor assembly at least partially under the influence of a magnetic field produced by a magnet assembly resulting when the conductor assembly and magnet assembly are at least partially in facing relationship. As discussed previously, the rotation of the conductor plates adjacent the magnet assembly causes an eddy current to be set up in the conductor plates due to the changing magnetic field produced by the rotation of the conductor plates relative to the magnet assembly. The current in the conductor plates moves in such a way as to produce heat in the conductor plates. The faster the conductor plates are rotated, the stronger the currents induced in the conductor plates and therefore the greater the heating of the conductor plates.
- The position of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b relative to the conductor plate assembly 354 will determine the amount of heating of the conductor plates, from a minimum in the disengaged position to a maximum in the engaged position. As the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b are translated over the range from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the amount of magnetic engagement of the conductor plates with the
magnet assemblies 160 a-d is increased, increasing the heating of theconductor plates 350 a-d and thus the fluid passing adjacent therewith. By selectively positioning the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b, the heating of theconductor plates 350 a-d, and therefore the heat output of the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404, can be controlled independently from the speed of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - In accordance with other embodiments of the magnetic heater, the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one of the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b with the
conductor plates 350 a-d. - In accordance with yet other embodiments, each of the
first magnet assembly 160 a,second magnet assembly 160 b, and third magnet assembly 160 c, translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one or more of the first, second, third andfourth conductor plates - In yet other embodiments, each of the half-
magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2, translate independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one or more of the half-magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2. - It is appreciated that, as with the embodiment of the
conductor assembly 450 ofFIG. 26 , in yet other embodiments, the magnetic heater comprises one or more magnet assemblies having a slot extending through an edge to beyond the center of the magnet assembly so as to allow the passing of the drive shaft therein when the magnet assembly is translated between a disengaged and engaged position. - It is appreciated that the feature of translating half-magnet units, magnet assemblies, and half-magnet assemblies can be extended to other magnetic heater embodiments, so as to move the magnets from engagement to disengagement with the conductor plates to control heat output. As discussed previously, the rotation of the
conductor plates 350 a-d adjacent themagnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2 causes an eddy current to be set up in theconductor plates 350 a-d due to the changing magnetic field produced by the movement of theconductor plates 350 a-d of the rotating conductor plate assembly 354. In accordance with Lenz's law, the current in theconductor plates 350 a-d moves in such a way as to create a magnetic field opposing the changing magnetic field produced by the movement of theconductor plates 350 a-d relative to thestationary magnet assemblies 160 a 1,a2,b1,b2,c1,c2, resulting in producing heat in theconductor plates 350 a-d. Also as previously discussed, the heat of theconductor plates 350 a-d may be used to heat a working fluid that is driven with a suitable fluid handling system. - Substantially similar to the split-conductor
magnetic heater assembly 302 ofFIGS. 23 , 24 and 25 comprising a split-conductormagnetic heater 304, the feature of being able to translate the first and second half-magnet units 162 a,b into and out of magnetic engagement with theconductor plates 350 a-d provides a number of significant advantages as described previously, such as, but not limited to, control of heat output and reduced startup torque requirements. -
FIGS. 33 , 34, and 35 are perspective, front, and side views, respectively, of an engine-drivenheat generation system 1330, in accordance with an embodiment. Referring again toFIG. 22 ,FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an engine-drivenheat generation system 200 that is substantially similar to the engine-drivenheat generation system 1330 ofFIGS. 33 , 34, and 35. The engine-drivenheat generation system 1330 provides heat to external applications via a secondary working fluid that exchanges heat from the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 and heat generated by anengine 110 via heat exchangers associated with anengine cooling system 112 and anexhaust system 229. The heat generated by the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 is transferred to the secondary working fluid passing within the conductor plate assembly 354. The secondary working fluid is driven through the engine-drivenheat generation system 1330 by a secondary fluid handling system (not shown for clarity) such as theblower fan 134 of the embodiment ofFIG. 14A . - The engine-driven
heat generation system 1330 comprises aninternal combustion engine 110, a transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404, such as, but not limited to, the embodiment ofFIG. 31 , and afluid handling system 230. A drive coupling (not shown) of theengine 110 drives or rotates thedrive shaft 18 and therefore the conductor plate assembly 354 within the split-magnetmagnetic heater 404 which in turn heats the conductor plate assembly 354 when magnetically engaged. InFIGS. 33 , 34, and 35, the first and second half-magnet units 60 a,b are in the non-magnetically engaged position for clarity. When magnetically engaged in the magnetically engaged position, the conductor plate assembly 354 is heated, which in turn, heats a secondary working fluid adjacent theconductor plates 350 a-d. At least a portion of the heat generated by theengine 110 is transferred to the secondary working fluid via theexhaust heat exchanger 123 a and the enginecoolant heat exchanger 124. - The position of the first and second half-
magnet units 60 a,b relative to the conductor plate assembly 354 will determine the amount of heating of the secondary working fluid by the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404, from a minimum in the magnetically disengaged position to a maximum in the magnetically engaged position. As the first and second half-magnet units 60 a,b are translated from the magnetically disengaged position to the magnetically engaged position, the amount of magnetic engagement with the conductor plate assembly 354 is increased, increasing the heating of the secondary working fluid. By selectively positioning the first and second half-magnet units 60 a,b along the upper andlower tracks 328 a,b, the heating of the conductor plate assembly 354, and therefore the heat output of the split-magnetmagnetic heater 404 via the secondary working fluid can be controlled independent of the speed of rotation of thedrive shaft 18. - The
fluid handling system 220 comprises anengine cooling system 112, and anexhaust system 229. The workingfluid handling system 220 comprises afluid reservoir 121, amanifold flow control 122, a pair ofexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b, acoolant heat exchanger 124, and one or more circulating pumps (not shown), all in fluid communication operable to circulate the working fluid therein. Themanifold flow control 122 is operable to direct the working fluid through theengine cooling system 112 andexhaust system 229. - The
engine cooling system 112 comprises acoolant reservoir 114 for a coolant fluid in fluid communication with theengine 110 and thecoolant heat exchanger 124. Themanifold flow control 122 is operable to direct the working fluid to thecoolant heat exchanger 124. The coolant fluid circulates within theengine 110, wherein the heat from the structure of theengine 110 is transferred to the coolant fluid and subsequently transferred to the secondary working fluid in thecoolant heat exchanger 124. Thecoolant heat exchanger 124 is coupled to themanifold flow control 122 and thefluid reservoir 121. In this way, the heat from theengine 110 as well as the heat from the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 is used to heat the secondary working fluid. - The
engine 110 produces hot exhaust gas as a product of combustion which is directed external to theengine 110 by an exhaust manifold 128 (not shown inFIGS. 33-35 ). Theexhaust system 229 comprises a pair ofexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b which are in fluid communication with theexhaust manifold 128 and are operable to transfer the heat from the exhaust of theengine 110 to the working fluid. Themanifold flow control 122 is also operable to direct the working fluid to theexhaust heat exchangers 123 a,b which in turn directs the working fluid to thefluid reservoir 121. In this way, the heat from the exhaust, heat from the engine coolant, as well as the heat from the transverse-moving magnetmagnetic heater 404 is used to heat the secondary working fluid. - It is appreciated that a variety of configurations of an engine-driven heat generation system may be utilized, depending on engineering design preferences and constraints.
- It is anticipated that many mechanical apparatus may be operable to move the magnets into and out of engagement with the conductor plates. The embodiment of lateral movement along a linear track as shown in
FIGS. 30-35 is but one example. Mechanical linkages and/or pivots may also be used in combination with motors and linear actuators, for example, to move the magnets into and out of engagement with the conductor plates in a pivoting, lateral, and/or other translational movement, by way of examples. -
FIG. 36 is an exploded view of amagnet unit 262 comprising a plurality ofpivotal magnet assemblies 260, in accordance with an embodiment. Eachpivotal magnet assembly 260 comprises anarm 266 having an armfirst end 261 and an armsecond end 263. Thepivotal magnet assembly 260 further comprises one or more magnets coupled to the armsecond end 263. Thepivotal magnet assembly 260 further comprises apivot element 265 between the armfirst end 261 and the armsecond end 263 operable to receive apivot pin 269 therein. Themagnet unit 262 of the embodiment ofFIG. 36 comprises a first, second andthird magnet assembly 262 a-c. The first, second and thirdpivotal magnet assemblies 262 a-c are operable to pivot about a pivot axis X. In accordance with an embodiment, the first, second and thirdpivotal magnet assemblies 262 a-c are fixed to thepivot pin 269 that passes through each of thepivot elements 265 and operable such that the first, second andthird magnet assemblies 262 a-c rotate simultaneously about the pivot axis P when the pivot pin is rotated. In accordance with another embodiment, each of the first, second and thirdpivotal magnet assemblies 262 a-c pivot independently about the pivot axis P, driven independently by an actuator (not shown). -
FIGS. 37 and 38 are perspective views of a pivoting-magnetmagnetic heater assembly 502 comprising a pivoting-magnetmagnetic heater 504 and aframe 312, in a magnetically disengaged and magnetically engaged configuration, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment. Theframe 312 is operable to support various elements of the pivoting-magnetmagnetic heater 504 as well as providing a platform for ancillary components of a larger system. The pivoting-magnetmagnetic heater 504 comprises a conductor plate assembly 554 and at least onemagnet unit 262. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 37 and 38 , theconductor plate assembly 454 comprises a first, second, third, andfourth conductor plates 450 a-d. Theconductor plates 350 a-d are coaxial and spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance definingconductor plate spaces 150, as will be explained further below. Theconductor plates 450 a-d are coupled to thedrive shaft 18 by a plurality ofspokes 470 and rotate relative to themagnet unit 262 when thedrive shaft 18 is rotated. It is understood that in other embodiments, theconductor plate assembly 454 comprises one ormore conductor plates 450 suitable for a particular purpose and complementary to the number ofpivotal magnet assemblies 260 in themagnet unit 262. By way of example, wherein there is oneconductor plate 350, there may be one or twopivotal magnet assemblies 260 on either side of theconductor plate 350. - The
conductor plates 450 a-d are coupled to adrive shaft 18 by a plurality ofspokes 470. Theconductor plates 450 a-d define anannular passage 493 between thespokes 470 such that air may enter theannular passage 493 from a substantially axial direction and driven substantially radially outwardly from theconductor plate spaces 150 driven byfins 472 carried and driven in rotation by thedrive shaft 18. - The
magnet unit 262 is operable to pivotally move afirst end 261 of one or more of thepivotal magnet assemblies 260 into and out of a correspondingconductor plate space 150 between and beside theconductor plates 450 a-d defined by theconductor plate assembly 454 and thus, moving themagnets 12 substantially into and out of magnetic engagement with theconductor plate assembly 454, as will be explained below. - The
magnet unit 262 is operable to translate thepivotal magnet assemblies 266 a-c in a pivoting motion transversely with respect to the axis of thedrive shaft 18 between a first, disengaged position as shown inFIG. 37 and a second engaged position as shown inFIG. 38 . Thepivotal magnet assemblies 266 a-c are operable such that when translated towards thedrive shaft 18, the correspondingmagnets 12 translate at least partially into respectiveconductor plate spaces 150 between and adjacent torespective conductor plates 450 a-d. - The pivoting-magnet
magnetic heater assembly 502 further comprises a drive means suitable for driving thepivotal magnet assemblies 266 a-c into and out of engagement with theconductor plates 350 a-d. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 38 and 39 , pivoting-magnetmagnetic heater assembly 502 further comprises alinear actuator 267 operable to engage the armfirst end 261 of one or more of thepivotal magnet assemblies 266 a-c. Thepivotal magnet assemblies 266 a-c are pivotally coupled to theframe 312 about a common pivot axis P. - The distance of travel of the
magnet assemblies 263 a-c is predetermined to cover a range of travel such that at a first position, referred to as the disengaged position, themagnet assemblies 263 a-c are positioned away from theconductor plates 450 a-d as shown inFIG. 37 , wherein they are substantially not magnetically engaged therewith, to a second, engaged position, wherein themagnet assemblies 263 a-c are interleaved with theconductor plate assembly 454, as shown inFIG. 38 , where they are substantially magnetically engaged therewith. - Movement of the
linear actuator 267 from an extended position to a retracted position provides movement of themagnets 12 from a disengaged position to an engaged position with theconductor plates 450 a-d, and visa versa. The degree of extension of thelinear actuator 267 may be controlled such that the degree of movement, and thus, engagement of themagnets 12 with theconductor plates 450 a-d and therefore the level of heat output of themagnetic heater 502 may be controlled. - In yet other embodiments, each of the first pivotal magnet assembly 260 a, second pivotal magnet assembly 260 b, and third
pivotal magnet assembly 260 c, move independently of each other, driven by separate drive means, providing various options for controlling heat output, such as, but not limited to, magnetically engaging or partially magnetically engaging one or more of the first, second, third andfourth conductor plates - In yet other embodiments, the magnetic heater comprises a plurality of
magnet units 262. - The drive means shown in
FIGS. 37-38 comprises alinear actuator 267. It is appreciated that other drive means for translating themagnet assemblies 260 a-c may be used. Such other means include, but are not limited to, levers, pulleys, gears, motors, linear actuators, pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, among many others, and in combination, as well as operable to be manually manipulated. It is also understood that eachmagnet assembly 260 a-c may be driven independently of each other. - Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein for purposes of description of the preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that a wide variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations calculated to achieve the same purposes may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. Those with skill in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention may be implemented in a very wide variety of embodiments. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the embodiments discussed herein.
- Persons skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications and variations are possible in the details, materials, and arrangements of the parts and actions which have been described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of this invention and that such modifications and variations do not depart from the spirit and scope of the teachings and appended claims contained.
Claims (24)
1. A magnetic heater, comprising:
a drive shaft defining a drive shaft axis and operable to rotate with respect to the drive shaft axis, the drive shaft defining a drive shaft first side and a drive shaft second side opposite the drive shaft first side;
a conductor plate unit comprising at least one conductor plate, the conductor plate comprises an electrically conductive material operable to enable inductive heating within the conductor plate when exposed to a time-varying magnetic flux;
at least one magnet unit comprising at least one magnet assembly, the magnet assembly being operable to provide time-varying magnetic flux to the conductor plate when the conductor plate moves relative to the magnet assembly, the magnet assembly comprises at least one magnet, wherein the magnet assembly is operable to dispose the magnet in close proximity to the conductor plate; and
drive means operable for translating the magnet assembly transversely with respect to the drive shaft axis between a magnetically disengaged position wherein the magnet is out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and a magnetically engaged position wherein the magnet is at least partially in opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate,
the conductor plate being coupled to the drive shaft such that the conductor plate rotates relative to the magnet assembly when the drive shaft is caused to rotate.
2. The magnetic heater of claim 1 , comprising a first magnet unit adjacent the drive shaft first side and a second magnet unit adjacent the drive shaft second side, wherein the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are operable to translate towards and away from each other transversely with respect to the drive shaft axis.
3. The magnetic heater of claim 1 , wherein the conductor plate unit comprises a plurality of conductor plates being parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other defining conductor plate spaces therebetween,
wherein the magnet unit comprises a plurality of magnet assemblies being parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other, the magnet unit operable such that in the magnetically engaged position each of the plurality of magnet assemblies are positioned in alternating interleaved arrangement placing the magnet at least partially within the conductor plate space between each of the plurality of conductor plates.
4. The magnetic heater of claim 1 , further comprising two upper tracks and two lower tracks, the upper tracks and lower tracks being substantially parallel with respect to each other and substantially perpendicular to the drive shaft axis defined by the drive shaft, the upper tracks being located adjacent the drive shaft first side and the lower tracks being located adjacent the drive shaft second side,
the magnet unit further comprising an upper side and a lower side opposite the upper side, and a plurality of wheels pivotally coupled to the upper side and a plurality of wheels pivotally coupled to the lower side, the upper and lower tracks operable to receive and guide the wheels in translation along a portion of a length of the upper and lower tracks such that the magnet unit may translate substantially perpendicular to the drive shaft axis defined by the drive shaft.
5. The magnetic heater of claim 1 , further comprising a pivot actuator,
wherein the magnet assembly comprises an arm having an arm first end and an arm second end opposite the arm first end, the at least one magnet being coupled to the arm second end, the magnet assembly further comprising a pivot element between the arm first end and the arm second end operable to facilitate pivoting motion of the arm in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction,
the pivot actuator operable to pivot the arm between the magnetically disengaged position with the magnet being out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and the magnetically engaged position with the magnet translating at least partially in opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate.
6. The magnetic heater of claim 3 , further comprising a pivot actuator,
wherein each of the plurality of magnet assemblies comprises an arm having an arm first end and an arm second end opposite the arm first end, the at least one magnet being coupled to the arm second end, the magnet assembly further comprising a pivot element between the arm first end and the arm second end operable to facilitate pivoting motion of the arm in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction,
the pivot actuator is operable to pivot each of the arms between the magnetically disengaged position with the plurality of magnet assemblies being out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and the magnetically engaged position wherein each of the plurality of magnet assemblies are positioned in alternating interleaved arrangement translating the magnet at least partially within the conductor plate space between each of the plurality of conductor plates.
7. The magnetic heater of claim 6 , wherein the magnet unit further comprises a pivot shaft defining a pivot axis, wherein the plurality of magnet assemblies are coupled to the pivot shaft via the pivot element and operable such that the plurality of magnet assemblies pivot simultaneously about the pivot axis when the pivot shaft is rotated.
8. The magnetic heater of claim 7 , wherein the pivot actuator comprises a linear actuator having a fixed end and an extendable end opposite the fixed end, the extendable end being coupled to the arm, wherein movement of the extendable end from an extended position to a retracted position rotates the arm moving of the magnet between the magnetically disengaged position and magnetically engaged position.
9. The magnetic heater of claim 6 , wherein the pivot actuator is operable to independently pivot each of the plurality of magnet assemblies.
10. The magnetic heater of claim 6 , wherein the conductor plate comprises a plurality of spokes radiating from about a center of the conductor plate, the conductor plate being coupled to the drive shaft by the plurality of spokes.
11. The magnetic heater of claim 10 , further comprising a fluid driver element operable for moving a working fluid through the annular passage and through the conductor plate spaces.
12. The magnetic heater of claim 11 , wherein the fluid driver element comprises at least one fin projecting from the drive shaft between the conductor plates and adjacent the spokes, the fins driven in rotation by the drive shaft and operable to move air in through the annular passage from a substantially axial direction and substantially radially outwardly from the conductor plate spaces.
13. An engine-driven heat generation system comprising:
an internal combustion engine having a drive shaft defining an axis of rotation;
a magnetic heater comprising:
a drive shaft defining a drive shaft axis and operable to rotate with respect to the drive shaft axis, the drive shaft defining a drive shaft first side and a drive shaft second side opposite the drive shaft first side;
a conductor plate unit comprising at least one conductor plate, the conductor plate comprises an electrically conductive material operable to enable inductive heating within the conductor plate when exposed to a time-varying magnetic flux;
at least one magnet unit comprising at least one magnet assembly, the magnet assembly being operable to provide time-varying magnetic flux to the conductor plate when the conductor plate moves relative to the magnet assembly, the magnet assembly comprises at least one magnet, wherein the magnet assembly is operable to dispose the magnet in close proximity to the conductor plate; and
drive means operable for translating the magnet assembly transversely with respect to the drive shaft axis between a magnetically disengaged position wherein the magnet is out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and a magnetically engaged position wherein the magnet is at least partially in opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate,
the conductor plate being coupled to the drive shaft such that the conductor plate rotates relative to the magnet assembly when the drive shaft is caused to rotate; and
a fluid handling system, the drive shaft of the engine operable to rotate the conductor plates within the magnetic heater which in turn heats the conductor plates which in turn heats a secondary working fluid flowing about the conductor plates, the fluid handling system comprising:
a fluid reservoir;
an exhaust heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; and
a coolant heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir, wherein the heat from the exhaust of the engine is transferred to the working fluid in the exhaust heat exchanger, the heat from the coolant heat exchanger is transferred to the working fluid in the coolant heat exchanger, the heat generated by the magnetic heater is transferred to the secondary working fluid passing within the magnetic heater, and the heat generated by the exhaust heat exchanger and the coolant heat exchanger is transferred to the secondary working fluid.
14. The magnetic heater of claim 13 , comprising a first magnet unit adjacent the drive shaft first side and a second magnet unit adjacent the drive shaft second side, wherein the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are operable to translate towards and away from each other transversely with respect to the drive shaft axis.
15. The magnetic heater of claim 13 , wherein the conductor plate unit comprises a plurality of conductor plates being parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other defining conductor plate spaces therebetween,
wherein the magnet unit comprises a plurality of magnet assemblies being parallel and spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other, the magnet unit operable such that in the magnetically engaged position each of the plurality of magnet assemblies are positioned in alternating interleaved arrangement placing the magnet at least partially within the conductor plate space between each of the plurality of conductor plates.
16. The magnetic heater of claim 13 , further comprising two upper tracks and two lower tracks, the upper tracks and lower tracks being substantially parallel with respect to each other and substantially perpendicular to the drive shaft axis defined by the drive shaft, the upper tracks being located adjacent the drive shaft first side and the lower tracks being located adjacent the drive shaft second side,
the magnet unit further comprising an upper side and a lower side opposite the upper side, and a plurality of wheels pivotally coupled to the upper side and a plurality of wheels pivotally coupled to the lower side, the upper and lower tracks operable to receive and guide the wheels in translation along a portion of a length of the upper and lower tracks such that the magnet unit may translate substantially perpendicular to the drive shaft axis defined by the drive shaft.
17. The magnetic heater of claim 13 , further comprising a pivot actuator,
wherein the magnet assembly comprises an arm having an arm first end and an arm second end opposite the arm first end, the at least one magnet being coupled to the arm second end, the magnet assembly further comprising a pivot element between the arm first end and the arm second end operable to facilitate pivoting motion of the arm in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction,
the pivot actuator operable to pivot the arm between the magnetically disengaged position with the magnet being out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and the magnetically engaged position with the magnet translating at least partially in opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate.
18. The magnetic heater of claim 15 , further comprising a pivot actuator,
wherein each of the plurality of magnet assemblies comprises an arm having an arm first end and an arm second end opposite the arm first end, the at least one magnet being coupled to the arm second end, the magnet assembly further comprising a pivot element between the arm first end and the arm second end operable to facilitate pivoting motion of the arm in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction,
the pivot actuator is operable to pivot each of the arms between the magnetically disengaged position with the plurality of magnet assemblies being out of opposing spaced apart facing relationship with the conductor plate and the magnetically engaged position wherein each of the plurality of magnet assemblies are positioned in alternating interleaved arrangement translating the magnet at least partially within the conductor plate space between each of the plurality of conductor plates.
19. The magnetic heater of claim 18 , wherein the magnet unit further comprises a pivot shaft defining a pivot axis, wherein the plurality of magnet assemblies are coupled to the pivot shaft via the pivot element and operable such that the plurality of magnet assemblies pivot simultaneously about the pivot axis when the pivot shaft is rotated.
20. The magnetic heater of claim 19 , wherein the pivot actuator comprises a linear actuator having a fixed end and an extendable end opposite the fixed end, the extendable end being coupled to the arm, wherein movement of the extendable end from an extended position to a retracted position rotates the arm moving of the magnet between the magnetically disengaged position and magnetically engaged position.
21. The magnetic heater of claim 18 , wherein the pivot actuator is operable to independently pivot each of the plurality of magnet assemblies.
22. The magnetic heater of claim 18 , wherein the conductor plate comprises a plurality of spokes radiating from about a center of the conductor plate, the conductor plate being coupled to the drive shaft by the plurality of spokes.
23. The magnetic heater of claim 22 , further comprising a fluid driver element operable for moving a working fluid through the annular passage and through the conductor plate spaces.
24. The magnetic heater of claim 23 , wherein the fluid driver element comprises at least one fin projecting from the drive shaft between the conductor plates and adjacent the spokes, the fins driven in rotation by the drive shaft and operable to move air in through the annular passage from a substantially axial direction and substantially radially outwardly from the conductor plate spaces.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/029,501 US20110132901A1 (en) | 2002-07-23 | 2011-02-17 | Transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2002/023569 WO2003011002A2 (en) | 2001-07-24 | 2002-07-23 | Magnetic heater apparatus and method |
USPCT/US02/23569 | 2002-07-23 | ||
US11/174,316 US7339144B2 (en) | 2001-07-24 | 2005-06-30 | Magnetic heat generation |
US11/243,394 US7420144B2 (en) | 2002-07-23 | 2005-10-03 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
US11/968,175 US20080099467A1 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2008-01-01 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
US13/029,501 US20110132901A1 (en) | 2002-07-23 | 2011-02-17 | Transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/968,175 Continuation US20080099467A1 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2008-01-01 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
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US20110132901A1 true US20110132901A1 (en) | 2011-06-09 |
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ID=37906788
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/243,394 Expired - Fee Related US7420144B2 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2005-10-03 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
US11/968,175 Abandoned US20080099467A1 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2008-01-01 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
US13/029,501 Abandoned US20110132901A1 (en) | 2002-07-23 | 2011-02-17 | Transverse-moving magnet magnetic heater |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/243,394 Expired - Fee Related US7420144B2 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2005-10-03 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
US11/968,175 Abandoned US20080099467A1 (en) | 2002-06-18 | 2008-01-01 | Controlled torque magnetic heat generation |
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US (3) | US7420144B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1932393A2 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2009510702A (en) |
KR (1) | KR20080070646A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101310566A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2624640A1 (en) |
EA (1) | EA012474B1 (en) |
NO (1) | NO20082033L (en) |
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JP2009510702A (en) | 2009-03-12 |
WO2007041461A3 (en) | 2007-08-02 |
EP1932393A2 (en) | 2008-06-18 |
WO2007041461A2 (en) | 2007-04-12 |
US7420144B2 (en) | 2008-09-02 |
KR20080070646A (en) | 2008-07-30 |
EA012474B1 (en) | 2009-10-30 |
NO20082033L (en) | 2008-04-30 |
US20060086729A1 (en) | 2006-04-27 |
US20080099467A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
CA2624640A1 (en) | 2007-04-12 |
CN101310566A (en) | 2008-11-19 |
EA200800921A1 (en) | 2008-10-30 |
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