USOO741 1321B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 7.411,321 B2

Wilt et al. (45) Date of Patent: Aug. 12, 2008
(54) ELECTROMAGNETIC ENGINE 6,713,933 B2 3/2004 Martin
2002fOO970 13 A1 7/2002 Bedini
(76) Inventors: Estays o, Ric Wilt 2003/011 1921 A1 6/2003 Honkura et al.
121 Annie Mae Dr. Vidalia, GA (US) s 2003/02O1692 A1 10, 2003 Chen
30474; James E. Wiggins, 5035 Wheeler 2003/0227362 A1 12/2003 Byram
Lake Rd., Augusta, GA (US) 30909 2004/0041481 A1* 3/2004 Kuo ........................... 310, 152
2004/0183387 A1* 9, 2004 Moe ........................... 310, 152
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this O
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days.
k .
(21) Appl. No.: 11/979,428 cited by examiner
Primaryy Examiner Burton Mullins
(22) Filed: Nov. 2, 2007 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm—Richard C. Litman
(65) Prior Publication Data (57) ABSTRACT
US 2008/OO67878A1 Mar. 20, 2008

Related U.S. Application Data An electromagnetic engine has inner and outer rotors having
(63) Continuation-in-part of application No. 1 1/249,348, magnets of opposite polarity mounted thereon. Output is
filed on Oct. 14, 2005, now Pat. No. 7,291,944. taken from the inner rotor, which is free to unidirectionally
(60) Provisional application No. 60/643,123, filed on Jan rotate. The outer rotor is caused to oscillate, the force of
12, 2005. su 1 -9 magnetic repulsion between the magnetic fields of the inner
s and outer rotors driving rotation of the inner rotor. The outer
(51) Int. Cl. rotor may be held Stationary by Solenoids and holding gears
HO2K 33/00 (2006.01) when the inner and outer magnetic fields are closely adjacent
HO2K. I6/00 (2006.01) in order to maximize the force of repulsion. The timing of the
(52) U.S. Cl. .......................... 310/36; 310/103; 310/152 oscillation and pausing of the outer rotor may be controlled by
(58) Field of Classification Search ................... 3.10/36, EPROM circuitry and a timing sensor mounted on the output
310/103, 114-117, 152 shaft or gear. Alternatively output is taken from the outer
See application file for complete search history. rotor, which is free to unidirectionally rotate while inner rotor
(56) Ref
eerees
Cited
e
is caused to oscillate, the magnetic forces between the inner
and outer rotors driving rotation of the outer rotor.
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
5,717,266 A * 2/1998 Maynard, Jr. ............... 310,103 11 Claims, 14 Drawing Sheets
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 1 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 2 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

simil|MII
Q
|
Q
N
Q
SH
TRI
1, (2S
()
S

72 N.
V-1 O
I 2).

- III"til
it is PG

III. 5 IR
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 3 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

C442

s
S

2
s
R
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 4 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

Z77772 a.27777722222222222222222222227777777.2777722222a272

in.
SYNYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Fig. 4
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 5 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

||
)
(
|
__|
_

)
||FSN
||
|

11

150
142
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 6 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

S. al

S
. S
SN
N
CN S
CN
OS
CN
S

2
/ N| Š S
CN
s N
N

N.

s
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 7 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

III I I I I I I III

O| Q
S. S
S
M
sO
St
w
O S.
S.

C
O N
EO
LA - S)
rs
- l

S
S
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 8 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 9 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

s
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 10 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

DI=WHDIB~?NT)!DId;O3
N?0LJOETW1'?8]I

go
&
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 11 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 12 of 14 US 7411,321 B2

S
.Qs y
A.

(&ITBJD#RGTE

S
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 13 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2
U.S. Patent Aug. 12, 2008 Sheet 14 of 14 US 7.411,321 B2

C HO
 US 7,411,321 B2
1. 2
ELECTROMAGNETIC ENGINE energy can be Supplied to the Solenoids by an auxiliary elec
trical generator. However, the efficiency of the electromag
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED netic motor enables the output shaft to perform useful work.
APPLICATION Useful work may be in the form a mechanical attachment to
the output shaft for the purpose of driving an auxiliary
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent mechanical device. Alternatively, an electrical generator may
application Ser. No. 1 1/249,348, filed Oct. 14, 2005, now be attached directly to the output shaft to provide electrical
U.S. Pat. No. 7,291,944 which claims the benefit of U.S. output energy to other electrical devices.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/643,123, filed Jan. These and other features of the present invention will
12, 2005. 10 become readily apparent upon further review of the following
specification and drawings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to engines and, 15 FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
more particularly to an electromagnetic engine. electromagnetic engine according to the present invention.
2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 2 is a top view of the electromagnetic engine of FIG.
Engines are well known in the art and have been used for 1.
many years to power machinery and a variety of vehicles. FIG. 3 is a section view along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2.
Many engines use fuel as a source of energy that, when FIG. 4 is a section view along lines 4-4 of FIG. 2.
combusted, drives various mechanisms in the process of out FIG. 5 is a partial top view of the left side of the electro
putting power. Mechanisms are concerned with kinematics of magnetic engine shown in FIG. 1.
movement of elements including linkages, cams, gears, and FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the electrical connections
gear trains. For example, a common application of a slider of the electromagnetic engine shown in FIG. 1.
crank mechanism is in the internal combustion engine. A 25 FIG. 7 is a partially exploded side view of another embodi
slider-crank mechanism includes a stationary frame, a crank, ment of an electromagnetic engine according to the present
a connecting rod, and, in the internal combustion engine, a invention.
piston. Another type of mechanism used in vehicle engines is FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the electromag
a cam and follower. The cam rotates at a constant angular netic engine shown in FIG. 7.
velocity, and the follower moves up and down. On the upward 30 FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of alternative left
motion the follower is driven by the arm, and on the return side components of the electromagnetic engine shown in
motion by the action of gravity or a spring. In vehicle engines, FIGS. 7 and 8.
two cams are used per cylinder to operate the intake and FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the electrical connec
exhaust valves. One primary deficiency of typical engines is tions of the electromagnetic engine shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
the efficiency of the engines. A constant and never ending 35 FIG. 11 is a partially exploded, perspective view of an
need exists in the engine art to provide an engine that provides electromagnetic engine according to the present invention
increased efficiency. As such, it would be desirable to provide similar to that shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, but having brake pads
an electromagnetic engine that excels in operational effi and a caliper assembly attached to the end plate.
ciency. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the electrical connec
Thus, an electromagnetic engine solving the aforemen 40 tions of the electromagnetic engine shown in FIG. 11.
tioned problems is desired. FIG. 13 is a partially exploded perspective view of the
brake and caliper assembly shown in FIG. 11.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic partial top view of the brake and
caliper assemblies of FIGS. 11-13, showing operation of the
The present invention is an electromagnetic engine. The 45 brake assemblies.
electromagnetic engine includes an output shaft, an outer Similar reference characters denote corresponding fea
magnet housing, an inner magnet housing, springs, input tures consistently throughout the attached drawings.
Solenoids, magnets, holding gears, lock bearings, bearing
cages, lock bearing races, lock bearings, shaft stabilizers, an DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED
inner magnet housing spacer, inner magnet brackets, output 50 EMBODIMENTS
shaft gears, timing gear brackets, timing gear bearing brack
ets, timing gear bearings, timing gear shafts, timing gears, The present invention is an electromagnetic engine. The
timing cams, timing rocker housings, rockers, timing pins, invention disclosed herein is, of course, Susceptible of
timing pin bolts, spring brackets, a base, and timing rocker embodiment in many different forms. Shown in the drawings
roller bearings. 55 and described herein below in detail are preferred embodi
The electromagnetic engine operates by having the Sole ments of the invention. It is to be understood, however, that
noids receive input power from an external electrical power the present disclosure is an exemplification of the principles
Source and providing output power to the output shaft. The of the invention and does not limit the invention to the illus
magnets include four outer magnets and four inner magnets. trated embodiments.
The inner magnets have magnetic forces that oppose the 60 Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-5 show a first
magnetic forces of the outer magnets. Electrical power pro embodiment of an electromagnetic engine 100. The electro
vided to the solenoids causes the solenoids to oscillate the magnetic engine 100 includes an output shaft 110, an outer
outer magnets. Springs provide stability and assist the Sole magnet housing 112, an inner magnet housing 114, springs
noids. 116, input solenoids 118, magnets 120, holding gears 122,
Once the electromagnetic motor has reached operating 65 output shaft bearings 124, bearing cages 128, lock bearing
speed, it generates Sufficient electrical energy to continue races 130, lock bearings 132, shaft stabilizers 134, an inner
driving the electromagnetic motor for a period of time. Input magnet housing spacer 136, inner magnet brackets 138, out
 US 7,411,321 B2
3 4
put shaft gears 140, timing gear brackets 142, timing gear There are, however, four inner magnets and four outer mag
bearing brackets 144, timing gear bearings 146, timing gear nets arranged on the inner magnet housing 112 and the outer
shafts 148, timing gears 150, timing cams 152, timing rocker magnet housing 114, respectively, so that each of the four
housings 154, rockers 156, timing pins 158, timing pin bolts outer magnets 120 is immediately adjacent to and opposing
160, spring brackets 162, a base 164, and timing rocker roller 5 its respective inner magnet 120 when timing pin 158 engages
bearings 166. the holding gear 122.
The electromagnetic engine 100 operates by having Sole Energy imparted to the output shaft 110 by the repelling
noids 118 receive input power from an external electrical force of opposing magnets 120 is multiplied by four. Simi
power source and providing output power to an output shaft larly, there are two holding gears 122 and two timing pins
110. The magnets 120 include four outer magnets and four 10 158, one of each arranged on opposite ends of the output shaft
inner magnets. The inner magnets have magnetic forces that 110. There is also a solenoid 118 associated with eachholding
oppose the magnetic forces of the outer magnets. Electrical gear 122. These solenoids 118 are attached to opposite sides
power provided to solenoids 118 causes the solenoids 118 to of the outer magnet housing 112. One solenoid 118 operates
oscillate the outer magnets. Springs 116 provide stability and to oscillate the outer magnet housing 112 in a direction oppo
assist the solenoids 118. 15 site to the rotation of the inner magnet housing 114. This
The electromagnetic engine 100 has a timing configuration action propels the outer magnets 120 through the initial force
that minimizes the input energy required to drive the output fields of opposing inner magnets 120 to the point that the
shaft 110. The timing configuration is associated with the holding gear 122 associated with this solenoid 118 is
oscillation of the outer magnets. The timing configuration engaged.
includes timing gearbrackets 142, timing gear bearing brack When the timing configuration releases the holding gears
ets 144, timing gear bearings 146, timing gear shafts 148, 122, a signal is sent to actuate the Solenoid 118 on the opposite
timing gears 150, timing cams 152, and timing rocker hous side of the outer magnet housing 112. This solenoid 118
ings 154. As the opposing inner and outer magnets 120 are in reverses the direction of oscillation of the outer magnet hous
proximity to each other, the initial force of repulsion is mini ing 112 and accelerates it in the same direction of rotation as
mized by the speed at which the outer magnets are oscillated 25 the output shaft 110 and the inner magnet housing 114. The
through the force field of the inner magnets. outer magnet housing 112, traveling at a faster rate of speed
Once the inner and outer magnets 120 directly oppose each than the inner magnet housing 114, places opposing inner and
other, the holding gears 122 momentarily hold the outer mag outer magnets 120 in close proximity and imparts additional
nets stationary in order to maximize the repulsion and provide force to rotate the output shaft 110.
additional driving force to the inner magnets and the output 30 This movement of the outer magnet housing 112 continues
shaft 110. Once the inner magnets have passed the outer to the limit of the oscillating range where the timing pin 158
magnets, the holding gears 122 release the outer magnets. The and the holding gear 122 associated with this side of the outer
outer magnets, having now reversed direction, follow the magnet housing 112 are engaged. The timing configuration
inner magnets and provide additional repulsion and motive then releases the timing pin 158 from the holding gear 122
force to the output shaft 110. The timing configuration and the 35 after a predetermined holding time, sends a signal to the
holding gears 122 minimize the input energy required to solenoid 118, and the cycle repeats. The springs 116 provide
operate the solenoids 118 while maximizing the repelling stability to the electromagnetic engine 100 and assist the
forces of the opposing inner and outer magnets 120. solenoids 118. The four springs 116 are attached to each
The electromagnetic engine 100 is placed in operation or corner of the outer magnet housing 112 and are anchored to
set in motion by movement or oscillation of the outer magnet 40 the base 164 by spring brackets 162.
housing 112. This may be accomplished either mechanically Synchronization of the inner and outer magnets 120 is
by rotation of the outer magnet housing 112, or electrically by achieved by the timing pins 158 and holding gears 122. Each
Supplying an external source of electrical energy to operate timing pin 158 is attached to a rocker 156. Each rocker 156
the solenoids 118. Either method initiates rotation of the inner interfaces with its respective timing cam 152 via timing gears
magnet housing 114 attached to the output shaft 110. Rotation 45 attached to the timing gear shafts 148 on each end of the
of the inner magnet housing 114 begins as magnets 120 on the electromagnetic engine 110. The timing gears 150 mesh with
outer magnet housing 112 pass through the force field of the output shaft gears 140, which are attached to the output
opposing magnets 120 on the inner magnet housing 114. shaft 110. This timing arrangement communicates inner mag
The initial repulsion of opposing magnets 120 as their net position to the outer magnets 120 in order to release the
proximity reduces is minimized by the relative speed at which 50 outer magnet housings 112 at precise times and to actuate the
the outer magnet housing 112 is oscillated (force is equal to solenoids 118 for optimum performance. Optimum perfor
time exposed to the force field). When the inner and outer mance is realized when minimum effort or input energy is
magnets 120 are approximately adjacent, the outer magnet required to operate the solenoids 118.
housing 112 is momentarily held stationary when the timing As load or torque is placed on the output shaft 110, its
pins 158 mesh with the holding gears 122. 55 rotational rate tends to decrease. The holding gear 122
This ensures that the total repelling force of opposing mag arrangement is critical for continued synchronization of inner
nets 120 is exerted in the desired direction of rotation of the and outer magnets 120 as their relative speeds change. As the
output shaft 110. In addition, by holding the outer magnet rotational rate of the output shaft 110 decreases, the outer
housing 112 at this point, the time exposed to the force field is magnet housing 112 needs to be held in order to compensate
increased, thereby further increasing energy delivered to the 60 for the relative speed differential. Under loaded conditions,
output shaft 110 by rotation of the outer magnet housing 112. the firing or actuation rate of the solenoids 118 decreases.
The momentary holding of the outer magnet housing 112 is Through this mechanical actuality and precise timing, the
critical to the timing of the electromagnetic engine 100 as efficiency and performance of the electromagnetic motor 100
torque or load is placed on the output shaft 110. is optimized.
The interaction of the opposing magnets 120 described 65 Once the electromagnetic motor 100 has reached operating
above is more easily understood when considering one inner speed, it generates Sufficient electrical energy to continue
magnet 120, one outer magnet 120, and one holding gear 122. driving the electromagnetic motor 100 for a period of time.
 US 7,411,321 B2
5 6
Input energy can be supplied to the solenoids 118 by an surface areas of the magnets 324 and 328, the maximum force
auxiliary electrical generator. However, the efficiency of the of repulsion between the magnetic fields of the magnets 324
electromagnetic motor 100 enables the output shaft 110 to and 328 is developed. Either the entire shells of magnets 324
perform useful work. Useful work may be in the form a and 328 may be magnets, or bar magnets may extend axially
mechanical attachment to the output shaft 110 for the purpose in the central portion of the shells, being laminated to the
of driving an auxiliary mechanical device. Alternatively, an lateral portions of the shells.
electrical generator may be attached directly to the output Outer case 342 is preferably made from a non-magnetic
shaft 110 to provide electrical output energy to other electri material. A first solenoid 338 and a second solenoid 339 are
cal devices. mounted in outer case 342 and selectively operate stop pins or
A schematic diagram 200 of the electrical connections of 10 pawls that engage the holding gears 327. A plurality of
the electromagnetic engine 100 is shown in FIG. 6. Solenoid springs 333 (drawn as spring and cage) and spring arm 334
210 is grounded and is interconnected to relay 230 by wiring are provided, the springs 333 having one end attached to each
212. Solenoid 220 is grounded and is interconnected to relay corner of the outer frame 326 and the opposite end anchored
240 by wiring 222. Relay 230 is interconnected to switch 250 at the case 342. Springs 333 stabilize oscillatory movement of
by wiring 236, interconnected to switch 260 by wiring 232 15 outer rotor 310. A pair of outer electromagnetic field coils 332
and 262, and interconnected to switch 270 by wiring 234 and are mounted on outer case 342, positioned 180° apart.
272. In the embodiments of FIGS. 7-10, the engine 300 is placed
Relay 240 is interconnected to switch 250 by wiring 246, in operation (set in motion) by oscillating movement of the
interconnected to switch 260 by wiring 242 and 262, and outer rotor 310. Oscillation of the outer rotor 310 may be
interconnected to switch 270 by wiring 244 and 272. Switch initiated either mechanically in the embodiment of FIGS. 7-8,
250 is interconnected to points 256 and ground by wiring 252 or by Supplying an external source of electrical energy to
and 254. Switches 260 and 270 are interconnected to switch operate the two outer electromagnetic field coils 332 in the
280 by wiring 264 and 274. Switch 280 is interconnected to embodiment of FIG. 9. This external source of electrical
alternator 286 and battery 290, and ground by wiring 282, energy is Supplied by the inner electromagnetic field coils
284, 292 and 294. 25 325, which are stationary and exist solely to place the engine
FIGS. 7-10 show another example of an electromagnetic 300 in operation. The inner electromagnetic field coils 325
engine 300. The electromagnetic engine 300 includes an receive their electrical energy from relays 344. Either method
outer rotor assembly 310 and an inner rotor assembly 305 initiates rotation of the outer rotor 310.
coaxially mounted in an outer case 342 between end plates Rotation of the inner rotor 305 commences as magnets 328
321. The inner rotor assembly 305 is capable of 360° rotation 30 on the outer rotor 310 pass through the force field of the
in a single direction, while the outer rotor assembly 310 is opposing magnets 324 on the inner rotor 305. The initial
constrained to rotate through an arc in an oscillatory move repulsion (due to the same polarity) of opposing magnets 324
ment, first in one direction, then in the opposite direction, and 328 as their proximity reduces is minimized by the rela
with intervals when the outer rotor 310 is held stationary, all tive speed (a high speed as the two magnets are moving in
according to a prescribed timing pattern. 35 opposite directions) as the outer rotor 310 is oscillated. When
In the embodiment of FIGS. 7-8, the inner rotor 305 the inner magnets 324 and outer magnets 328 are approxi
includes an inner frame 322A having a pair of disk-shaped mately adjacent, the outer rotor 310 is momentarily held
end plates connected by parallel spacerbars. A pair of arcuate stationary by the solenoid release 338 meshing with the hold
magnets 324, being sections of a cylindrical shell, are ing gear 327. The lock bearings 340 work in conjunction with
mounted on the inner frame 322. An output shaft 335 is fixed 40 solenoid releases 338,339 and holding gears 327.
to the inner frame 322 and extends through an output shaft This holding of the outer rotor 310 stationary serves mul
bearing 343 mounted on end plate 321. tiple purposes. It ensures that the total repelling force of
In the embodiment of FIG.9, the inner rotor 305 includes opposing magnets is exerted in the desired direction of rota
an inner frame 322B similar in construction to inner frame tion of the output shaft 335 or output gear 323. By “holding
322A, but with the disk-shaped end plates replaced by rings. 45 the outer rotor 310 at this point, the time exposed to the force
In this embodiment, output from the engine 300 is taken from field is increased, thereby further increasing energy delivered
an output gear 323 fixed to inner frame 322B. Also, in this to the output shaft 335, which is fixed to inner frame 322 and
embodiment, the inner frame rotates around inner electro is rotatable in output shaft bearing 343 mounted in end plate
magnetic field coils 325, which are held stationary within 321, via rotation of the inner frame 322. Alternatively, the
outer case 342, for a purpose described below. 50 output may be taken from output gear 323, which is fixed to
The outer rotor 310 includes an outer frame 326 having a inner frame 322.
pair of end rings joined by parallel spacer bars to define a For simplicity, the above discussion of opposing magnets
hollow annulus within which the inner rotor 305 rotates. A focused on one inner magnet 324, one outer magnet 328 and
pair of arcuate magnets 328 are mounted on the outer frame one holding gear 327. The engine 300 actually has a total of
326, the magnets 328 being sections of a cylindrical shell. A 55 four magnets (two inner and two outer) arranged 180° apart
pair of holding gears 327 are mounted on opposite ends of on the inner frame 322 and the outer frame 326, respectively,
outer rotor 310. A plurality of bearings 330 extend from so that each of the two outer magnets 328 is immediately
opposite ends of the outer rotor 310 and rotate within bearing adjacent to and opposing its respective inner magnets 324 as
races 331 defined in opposite ends of the case 342. the solenoid release 338 engages the holding gear 327. Thus,
The magnets 328 mounted on outer frame 326 are opposite 60 energy imparted to the output shaft 335 by the repelling force
in polarity to the magnets 324 mounted on inner frame 322A of opposing magnets is multiplied by two. Similarly, there are
or 322B. That is, if the outer faces of the magnets 328 have two holding gears 327 and two solenoid releases 338 and 339,
positive polarity and the inner faces have negative polarity, and two lock bearings 340, one of each arranged on opposite
then the outerfaces of inner magnets 324 have negative polar ends of the output shaft 335.
ity and the inner faces have positive polarity. When the inner 65 Additionally, there is an outer electromagnetic field coil
faces of outer magnets 328 are aligned with the outerfaces of 332 associated with each holding gear 327 and attached to
inner magnets 324 So that there is maximum alignment of the opposite sides of the outer magnet frame 326. The primary
 US 7,411,321 B2
7 8
outer electromagnetic field coil 332 operates to oscillate the 1130 so that the shaft 1111 can extend through the bearing
outer magnet frame 326 in both directions, first in the same plate 1130 and be freely rotatable. For each rotor 1109, a gear
direction as the inner magnet frame 322, immediately fol 1110 is disposed at the end of shaft 1111. When the braking
lowed by a counterrotational movement in a direction oppo assembly 1100 is mounted to the end plate 321, gears 1110
site to the rotation of the inner frame 322. When the outer mesh with holding gear 327.
magnet frame 326 is moving opposite the inner magnet frame A caliper mounting tang 1103 extends perpendicularly
322, this action propels the outer magnets 328 through the away from a middle section of the outer brake disk bearing
force fields of opposing inner magnets 324 to the point that plate 1135 while allowing space for the brake rotors 1109 to
the holding gear 327 associated with the outer electromag turn. Three mounting holes 1116 are disposed through the
netic field coil 332 is engaged. 10 mounting tang 1103. A brake caliper/pad assembly 1117 is
When the timing device releases the holding gear 327, a provided to selectively stop rotation of the brake disks 1109.
signal is also sent to actuate a secondary outer electromag The brake caliper/pad assembly 1117 is comprised of elon
netic field coil 332 on the opposite side of the outer housing gate arcuate caliper members 1350, which are pivotally
342. The secondary outer electromagnetic field coil 332 mounted on caliper block 1310 via pivot pins 1315. Friction
reverses the direction of the oscillation of the outer magnet 15 pads 1375 are disposed on inner surfaces of the calipers 1350.
frame 326 and accelerates it in the same direction of rotation The caliper block 1310 has bores 1318 that align with mount
as the output shaft 335 and the inner rotor 305. The outer rotor ing tang bores 1116. Fasteners 1317 can be disposed through
310, traveling at a faster rate of speed than the inner rotor 322, the aligned caliper block bores 1318 and mounting tang bores
places opposing inner magnets 324 and outer magnets 328 in 1116 to secure the caliper assembly 1117 to the mounting
close proximity and imparts additional force to rotate the tang 1103, thus positioning the calipers 1350 in alignment
output shaft 335. This movement of the outer rotor 310 con proximate inner and outer surfaces of brake disks 1109.
tinues to the limit of the oscillating range where the Solenoid As shown in FIG. 14, caliper release bearings 1402 are
release 339 and the holding gear 327 and lock bearing 40 retained in the calipers 1350 proximate the free ends of cali
associated with this side of the outer rotor 326 are engaged. pers 1350 by release bearing retainer fasteners 1404. A cali
Timing devices then release (after the appropriate holding 25 per bias spring 1408 is disposed across fasteners 1404 in order
time) the solenoid release 339 from the holding gear 327, to bias the calipers 1350 to pivot towards the rotor 1109 in a
send a signal to the outer electromagnetic field coil 332, and braking configuration. In use, spring 1408 biases the calipers
the cycle repeats. To provide the engine 300 stability and to 1350 towards each other so that pads 1375 frictionally engage
assist the outer electromagnetic field coil 332, three springs the rotors 1109, preventing rotation of rotors 1109. Since
333 (drawn as spring and cage) and spring arm 334 are pro 30 gears 1110 on rotor shafts 1111 engage holding gears 327,
vided, the springs 333 having one end attached to each corner holding gears 327 are kept stationary, preventing outer rotor
of the outer magnet frame 326 and the opposite end anchored 310 from rotating. Upon signal from the EPROM controller,
at the case 342. solenoid plunger 1240 extends between bearings 1402 at the
Synchronization of the inner magnets 324 and outer mag ends of calipers 1350, causing the free ends of calipers 1350
nets 328 is achieved by the aforementioned solenoid release 35 to pivot away from each other, disengaging pads 1375 from
338 and 339 and the holding gears 327. Each solenoid release rotors 1109. This permits rotation of rotors 1109 and holding
338,339 is attached to the case 342. The solenoid releases 338 gears 327, permitting the outer rotor 310 to oscillate.
and 339 are controlled by an EPROM controller 345. Con While the invention has been described with reference to
troller 345 is connected to a timing sensor 341 on the output its preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those
shaft 335. The EPROM controller 345 controls activation of 40 skilled in the art that various changes may be made and
the relays 336 and 337 and the solenoid releases 338 and 339 equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without
at the precise time for optimum performance. Optimum per departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In
formance is realized when minimum effort or input energy is addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a par
required to operate the outer electromagnetic field coils 332. ticular situation or material to the teaching of the invention
As load or torque is placed on the output shaft 335, its rota 45 without departing from its essential teachings. For example,
tional rate will tend to decrease. The holding gear arrange magnetic polarities of magnets 324 Supported by inner mag
ment 327 is critical for continued synchronization of the inner netic frame 322 and magnetic polarities of magnets 328 Sup
magnets 324 and the outer magnets 328 as their relative speed ported by outer magnet housing 326 may be reversed and/or
changes. That is, as the rotational rate of the output shaft 335 drive configuration may be changed so that inner rotor 305
decreases, the outer rotor 310 must be "held in order to 50 rotates in oscillating arcs to cause output rotation of the outer
compensate for the relative speed differential. It should be rotor 310.
noted that, under loaded conditions, the required firing (ac It is to be understood that the present invention is not
tuation) rate of the outer electromagnetic field coil 332 limited to the embodiment described above, but encompasses
decreases. Through this mechanical actuality and precise tim any and all embodiments within the scope of the following
ing, device efficiency and performance are thereby opti 55 claims.
mized, while the output remains the same.
As shown in FIGS. 11-13, an alternative embodiment is We claim:
provided that includes a braking assembly 1100 mounted to 1. An electromagnetic engine, comprising:
an end plate 321 at each end of electromagnetic motor 300. an outer rotor having an outer frame defining an annulus
The braking assembly 1100 comprises anarcuate inner brake 60 and a plurality of outer magnets mounted on the outer
disk bearing plate 1130 and an arcuate outer brake disk bear frame;
ing plate 1135 joined by a pair of substantially L shaped an inner rotor having an inner frame and a plurality of inner
brackets 1115, to form a housing in which at least two brake magnets mounted thereon, the inner frame being dis
rotors 1109 are freely rotatable. Each of the brake rotors 1109 posed for rotation within the annulus defined by the
has a shaft 1111. A lock bearing 1330 is mounted on the shaft 65 outer frame, the inner magnets having a magnetic field
1111 proximate the brake rotor 1109. A support bearing 1114 opposite in polarity to the outer magnets;
is disposed within a wall of the inner brake disk bearing plate means for rotating the outer rotor in oscillating arcs:
 US 7,411,321 B2
10
an outer case having opposing end members, the inner 3. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 2, further
rotor and the outer rotor being coaxially mounted within comprising an EPROM controller circuit electrically con
the outer case between the end plates: nected to said solenoid.
a pair of brake assemblies, each of the end plates having a 4. The electromagnetic engine according to claim3, further
corresponding one of the brake assemblies mounted 5 comprising a timing sensor mounted on said output coupling,
thereon; the timing sensor being electrically connected to said
means for actuating the brake assemblies to momentarily EPROM controller circuit for adjusting speed of oscillation of
maintain the outer rotor in a stationary position; and said outer rotor according to a load attached to said output
coupling.
an output coupling fixed to the inner rotor for rotation 10 5. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 1,
therewith: wherein the means for rotating said outer rotor comprises a
wherein oscillation of the outer rotor causes rotation of the plurality of outer electromagnetic field coils attached to oppo
inner rotor, thereby providing output power to the output site sides of the outer case.
coupling. 6. The electromagnetic engine according to claim.5, further
2. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 1, 15 comprising at least one electromagnetic field coil mounted to
wherein each of said brake assemblies comprises: said outer case and disposed within said inner frame.
a pair of holding gears, the holding gears being mounted on 7. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 1, further
opposite ends of said outer rotor, comprising a plurality of springs having a first end anchored
to said outer case and a second end attached to said outer
a pair of rotor frames, each of the end members of said
outer case having a corresponding one of the rotor frame, the springs stabilizing oscillation of said outer rotor.
frames attached thereto; 8. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 1,
at least one rotor shaft pivotally mounted on each of the wherein said output coupling comprises an output shaft fixed
to the inner frame of said inner rotor.
rotor frames, the rotor shaft having a rotor attached 9. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 1,
thereto; 25 wherein said output coupling comprises an output gear fixed
a rotor gear mounted on the at least one rotor shaft, the rotor to the inner frame of said inner rotor.
gear meshing with the holding gear; 10. An electromagnetic engine, comprising:
at least one pair of substantially parallel, elongated caliper an outer rotor having an outer frame defining an annulus
plates attached to each of the rotor frames, the caliper and a plurality of outer magnets mounted on the outer
plates being disposed on opposite sides of the rotor, each 30 frame, the outer rotor and frame being disposed for
of the caliper plates having a pivotally mounted end and rotation thereof;
an opposing free end; an inner rotor having an inner frame and a plurality of inner
a brake pad attached to each of the caliperplates, the brake magnets mounted thereon, the inner frame being dis
pads facing the rotor, posed for oscillation within the annulus defined by the
a resilient member extending between the free ends of the 35 outer frame, the inner magnets having a magnetic field
at least one pair of caliper plates, the resilient member opposite in polarity to the outer magnets;
biasing the caliperplates towards each otherina braking means for rotating the inner rotor in oscillating arcs:
position in which the brake pads frictionally engage means for momentarily maintaining the inner rotor in a
opposite sides of the rotor to hold the rotorina stationary stationary position; and
position; and 40 an output coupling fixed to the outer rotor for rotation
a Solenoid having a release piston movable between an therewith:
wherein oscillation of the inner rotor causes rotation of the
extended position in which the release piston is extended outer rotor, thereby providing output power to the output
between the free ends of the calipers, pivoting the cali coupling.
pers apart to an open position in which the brake pads 45 11. The electromagnetic engine according to claim 10,
disengage from the rotor to permit rotation of the rotor further comprising an outer case, said inner rotor and said
and the holding gear, and a retracted position in which outer rotor being coaxially mounted within the outer case.
the release piston is withdrawn from between the cali
pers. k k k k k