USOO6246561B1

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 6,246,561 B1

Flynn (45) Date of Patent: Jun. 12, 2001

(54) METHODS FOR CONTROLLING THE PATH 4,688,138 * 8/1987 Nagata et al. ....................... 361/154
OF MAGNETIC FLUX FROMA 4,747,010 5/1988 Bayer ................................... 361/210
PERMANENT MAGNET AND DEVICES 4,965,695 * 10/1990 Baumann ..... ... 361/142
NCORPORATING THE SAME 5,015,903 5/1991 Hancock et al. . 310/168
5,155,651 * 10/1992 Yoda et al. ...... 361/144
(75) Inventor: Charles J. Flynn, Greenwood, MO 5,254,925 10/1993 Flynn ................................... 318/696
5,268,662 12/1993 Uetsuhara et al. ................... 335/229
(US) 5,304,881 4/1994 Flynn et al. ..... 310/156
5,455,474 10/1995 Flynn ....... ... 310/181
(73) Assignee: Magnetic Revolutions Limited, L.L.C, 5,463,263 10/1995 Flynn ... ... 310/181
St. Louis, MO (US) 5,677,580 10/1997 Huang ... ... 310/44
5,710,493 1/1998 Flynn ... ... 318/254
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 5,719,543 2/1998 Berling ... ... 335/229
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 5,753,990 5/1998 Flynn et al. ... 310/156
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. 5,818,680 * 10/1998 Schmitz et al. .. 361/160
5,822,167 10/1998 Schmitz ............................... 361/143
(21) Appl. No.: 09/127,056 * cited by examiner
(22) Filed: Jul. 31, 1998 Primary Examiner Fritz Fleming
(51) Int. Cl." ................................................. HO2K 21/12 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Haverstock, Garrett and
Roberts LLP
(52) U.S. Cl. ............................................. 361/147; 361/210
(58) Field of Search ..................................... 361/143, 147, (57) ABSTRACT
361/206, 210
A permanent magnet device includes a permanent magnet
(56) References Cited having north and South pole faces with a first pole piece
positioned adjacent one pole face thereof and a Second pole
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS piece positioned adjacent the other pole face thereof So as to
1,161,819 * 11/1915 Grob . create at least two potential magnetic flux paths. A first
3,135,880 * 6/1964 Olson et al.. control coil is positioned along one flux path and a Second
3,184,651 * 5/1965 Albosta. control coil is positioned along the other flux path, each coil
3,451,055 * 6/1969 Pihl. being connected to a control circuit for controlling the
3,634,735 1/1972 Komatsu .............................. 335/234 energization thereof. The control coils may be energized in
3,670,189 6/1972 Monroe .................................. 310/46 a variety of ways to achieved desirable motive and Static
3,683.239 * 8/1972 Sturman ..... ... 335/170 devices, including linear reciprocating devices, linear
3,743,898 * 7/1973 Sturman ..... ... 335/254 motion devices, rotary motion devices and power conver
3,949,250 4/1976 Walker et al. ......................... 310/36 SO.
4,279,008 * 7/1981 Del Picchia et al. ... 361/194
4,479,162 * 10/1984 Offutt et al. ....... ... 361/210
4,528,533 7/1985 Montagu .............................. 335/230 42 Claims, 32 Drawing Sheets
U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 1 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1
U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 2 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1

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U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 8 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1

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U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 16 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1
U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 17 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1
U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 19 of 32 US 6,246,561 B1
U.S. Patent Jun. 12, 2001 Sheet 20 Of 32 US 6,246,561 B1
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1 2
METHODS FOR CONTROLLING THE PATH north pole face to define first and Second flux paths for
OF MAGNETIC FLUX FROM A magnetic flux emanating from the north pole face of the
PERMANENT MAGNET AND DEVICES permanent magnet, the first path portion of the first pole
NCORPORATING THE SAME piece connected to the Second path portion of the first pole
piece by the third portion which extends across the north
FIELD OF THE INVENTION pole face of the permanent magnet, the Second pole piece
positioned adjacent the South pole face and including a first
This invention relates generally to permanent magnet path portion and a Second path portion, the first path portion
devices and more particularly, to a permanent magnet con extending beyond a perimeter of the South pole face and
trol component in which the flow of flux from a permanent substantially aligned with the first path portion of the first
magnet is controlled between two or more flux paths by pole piece, the Second path portion extending beyond the
utilizing timed delivery of electrical Signals through one or perimeter of the South pole face and Substantially aligned
more coils placed along at least one of the flux paths. Such with the Second path portion of the first pole piece, the first
permanent magnet control components may take on a vari control coil positioned around the first path portion of the
ety of configurations facilitating use of Such components in 15 first pole piece, the Second control coil positioned around the
a variety of applications including applications involving the Second path portion of the first pole piece, the circuit means
production of reciprocating, linear, and rotary motion and connected to each of the first control coil and the Second
power conversion. Several novel permanent magnet rotary control coil to alternatingly energize the first coil and the
motion devices of motor constructions which operate by Second coil in a timed Sequential manner.
controlling the path of magnetic flux from one or more Another aspect of the present invention provides a method
permanent magnets are described, Such permanent magnet for controlling the path of magnetic flux from a permanent
rotary motor constructions having increased efficiency and magnet which involves placing a first pole piece adjacent a
more desirable torque characteristics as compared to many first pole face of the permanent magnet So as to have at least
currently used motorS. first and Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 25 of the first pole face. A Second pole piece is placed adjacent
a Second pole face of the permanent magnet So as to include
Magnetic force of attraction is commonly used in a at least one portion which Substantially aligns with the first
variety of types of permanent magnet devices including both and Second path portions of the first pole piece. A first
linear and rotary motors. In the field of Such permanent control coil is placed along and around the first path portion
magnet devices there is a continuous pursuit of increased of the first pole piece and a Second control coil is placed
efficiency and reduced complexity. along and around the Second path portion of the first pole
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to piece. The first control coil is repeatedly energized in a
provide a permanent magnet control component in which the permanent magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to
path of a given level of permanent magnet flux can be prevent magnetic flux of the permanent magnet from tra
controlled by a lesser level of electromagnetic flux. 35 versing the first path portion of the first pole piece, and the
Another object of the present invention is to provide a Second control coil is repeatedly energized in a permanent
permanent magnet control component in which Substantially magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to prevent
all of the flux from a permanent magnet can be Switched magnetic flux of the permanent magnet from traversing the
between at least two different flux paths of the permanent Second path portion of the first pole piece.
magnet control component So as to enable useful work in the 40 Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a
form of linear, reciprocating, and rotary motion. method for controlling the path of magnetic flux from a
permanent magnet by placing a first pole piece adjacent a
Still another object of the present invention is to provide first pole face of the permanent magnet So as to have at least
permanent magnet control components and motor construc first and Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter
tions in which flux path control is provided by energizing an 45 of the first pole face. A Second pole piece is placed adjacent
10 electromagnet to oppose the magnetic flux of one or a Second pole face of the permanent magnet So as to include
more permanent magnets. at least one portion which Substantially aligns with the first
Another object of the present invention is to provide and Second path portions of the first pole piece. A first
permanent magnet control components and motor construc control coil is placed along and around the first path portion
tions in which flux path control is provided by energizing an 50 of the first pole piece, and a Second control coil is placed
electromagnet to aid the magnetic flux of one or more along and around the Second path portion of the first pole
permanent magnets. piece. The following StepS are alternatingly performed in a
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide repeated manner:
permanent magnet motor 15 constructions with improved (i) energizing the first control coil in a permanent magnet
operating characteristics. 55 magnetic flux aiding manner So as to couple with
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Substantially all magnetic flux of the permanent magnet
Such that Substantially no magnetic flux of the perma
These and other objects of the invention are attained by an nent magnet traverses the Second path portion of the
apparatus which, in one aspect, is a permanent magnet first pole piece when the first control coil is So ener
device, comprising a permanent magnet having north and 60 gized; and
South pole faces, a first pole piece, a Second pole piece, a first (ii) energizing the Second control coil in a permanent
control coil, a Second control coil, and circuit means, the first magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to couple
pole piece positioned adjacent the north pole face of the with Substantially all magnetic flux of the permanent
permanent magnet and including a first path portion, a magnet Such that Substantially no magnetic flux of the
Second path portion and a third portion, the first path portion 65 permanent magnet traverses the first path portion of the
extending beyond a perimeter of the north pole face and the first pole piece when the Second control coil is So
Second path portion extending beyond the perimeter of the energized.
 US 6,246,561 B1
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A further aspect of the present invention provides method FIG. 15 is a side view of a two path permanent magnet
for controlling the path of magnetic flux from a permanent device showing control coils energized in an exceeding
magnet by placing a first pole piece adjacent a first pole face manner,
of the permanent magnet So as to have at least first and FIGS. 16A-E are a side view of a linear reciprocating
Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter of the device with control coils energized in an exceeding manner;
first pole face, and placing a Second pole piece adjacent a FIGS. 17A-17D depict another embodiment of a linear
Second pole face of the permanent magnet So as to include reciprocating device;
at least one portion which Substantially aligns with the first
and Second path portions of the first pole piece. A first FIGS. 18A-18E show a linear motion device;
control coil is placed along and around the first path portion 1O FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a rotary
of the first pole piece, and a Second control coil is placed motion device;
along and around the Second path portion of the first pole FIG. 20 is a partial assembled and cut away view of the
piece. The following Steps are alternatingly performed in a rotary motion device of FIG. 19;
repeated manner: FIGS. 21A-21E are top views of the partial assembly of
(i) energizing the first control coil in a permanent magnet 15 FIG. 20, which views depict rotational motion thereof,
magnetic flux aiding manner So as to couple with FIG. 22 is an assembled, cut-away view of the rotary
Substantially all magnetic flux of the permanent magnet motion device of FIG. 19 including a housing;
Such that Substantially no magnetic flux of the perma FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of another
nent magnet traverses the Second path portion of the embodiment of a rotary motion device;
first pole piece when the first control coil is So ener
gized; and FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the rotary motion device
(ii) energizing the Second control coil in a permanent of FIG. 23 as assembled;
magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to couple FIGS. 25A-25B are end views of the rotary motion device
with Substantially all magnetic flux of the permanent of FIG. 24 with the end cap removed to expose the rotor
magnet Such that Substantially no magnetic flux of the 25 member;
permanent magnet traverses the first path portion of the FIGS. 26-28 show end views of various configurations
first pole piece when the Second control coil is So for skewing the direction of rotation in the rotary motion
energized. device of FIG. 24;
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION FIGS. 29A-29D are end views of the rotary motion
device of FIG. 24 illustrating a Sequence of rotational
For a better understanding of the present invention refer movement thereof;
ence may be made to the accompanying drawings in which: FIG.30 is an exploded partial perspective view of another
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a magnetic device in which embodiment of a rotary motion device;
the magnetic flux from a magnetic member traverse a single 35 FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the rotary motion device
path to produce a coupling force; of FIG. 30 as assembled
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a magnetic device in which FIGS. 32A-32D are top views of the rotary motion device
the magnetic flux from a magnetic member Splits between of FIG. 31 illustrating rotational movement thereof;
two paths, FIG.33 is a side view of the rotary motion device of FIG.
FIG. 3 is a Side view of two magnetic members arrange 40 31 as assembled and including a housing;
in parallel between pole pieces, FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of
FIG. 4 is a Side view of two magnetic members arranged a rotary motion device;
in Series between pole pieces, FIG. 35 is a top view of the rotary motion device of FIG.
FIGS. 5-6 are side views of a permanent magnet device 34;
including a permanent magnet having pole pieces positioned 45
against the pole faces thereof and including a movable FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the permanent magnet
armature, rotor member of the rotary motion device of FIG. 34;
FIGS. 7-9 are side views of a permanent magnet device FIGS. 37 and 38 show alternative configurations for the
including a permanent magnet having pole pieces positioned control component incorporated into the rotary motion
against the pole faces thereof to provide two magnetic flux 50 device of FIG. 34;
paths and including a movable armature positionable along FIGS. 39A-39D are top views of the rotary motion device
each magnetic flux path; of FIG. 34 and depict rotational movement thereof;
FIGS. 10, 10A-10H are perspective views of various FIGS. 40-44 are alternative variations of circuit means
embodiments of permanent magnet 5 control components for controlling the timed energization of control coils in the
55
which include two or more magnetic flux paths, various devices of the present invention;
FIGS. 11, 11A-11F are side views of a permanent magnet FIGS. 45A-45C and 45X-45Z are side views of two path
device including a permanent magnet having pole pieces power conversion devices,
positioned against the pole faces thereof and including a FIG. 46 is a Schematic view of the permanent magnet
movable armature and a permanent bypass extending 60 portion of a rotor for use in Some embodiments of the
between the pole pieces, present device;
FIGS. 12, 12A-12E are side views of a two path perma FIGS. 47 and 48 show other embodiments of a linear
nent magnet device including two bypasses; motion device;
FIGS. 13 A-13C are side views of a permanent magnet FIG. 49 is a top view of another embodiment of a rotating
linear reciprocating device; 65 motor like construction; and
FIG. 14 is a side view of an electromagnetic linear FIG. 50 is a schematic view of one of the three stator
reciprocating device; portions of the device shown in FIG. 49.
 US 6,246,561 B1
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS paths. The effect of dividing a given amount of magnetic flux
Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-4 are provided to along two like flux paths instead of along one flux path can
facilitate an understanding of various aspects or features of be seen by examining the holding force on armature 54 as
the technology utilized in the present invention. FIG. 1 compared to the holding force on armature 26 of FIG.1. As
depicts a device 10 having a magnetic flux producing already noted the magnetic flux density along path 56 will be
member 12 which may be a permanent magnet or electro one-half that along flux path 32 and thus the total holding
magnet with magnetic poles 14 and 16 as shown. Pole pieces force Fis can be determined as:
18 and 20 are positioned adjacent respective poles 14 and 16
to provide a path for the magnetic flux of member 12. Each
pole piece 18 and 20 includes a respective pole piece end It is therefore Seen that dividing the same amount of mag
face 22 and 24. AS used throughout this specification it is netic flux along two flux paths rather than along one flux
understood that a pole piece, regardless of its shape or size, path reduces the magnetic holding or coupling force on an
is preferably formed of soft iron, steel or some other armature by one-fourth rather than one-half as might have
magnetic material, with the preferred material being one 15 been expected. This unexpected magnetic holding or cou
which provides low reluctance, exhibits low hysterisis, and pling force differential, resulting from multiple flux paths,
has a high magnetic flux density capability. Accordingly, the can provide advantageous properties in linear, reciprocating,
various pole pieces disclosed and described herein could and rotary motion devices.
likewise be of laminate type construction. Referring again to Referring now to FIGS. 3-4, the behavior of multiple
FIG. 1 an armature 26, also formed of magnetic material, is magnetic flux Sources arranged in parallel and Series is
shown with end faces 28 and 30 which are positioned and described as compared to a single flux Source. When iden
sized for being placed adjacent pole piece end faces 22 and tical flux Sources or magnetic flux producing members 70
24, Such that when So positioned a Substantially continuous and 72 are positioned in parallel as shown in FIG. 3 with
low reluctance path 32 is provided for magnetic flux from pole pieces 74 and 76 positioned adjacent the poles thereof
north pole 14, through pole piece 18, through armature 26, 25 to provide a flux path through armature 78, the flux density
through pole piece 16, and to South pole 16. The magnetic B through armature 78 is double what the flux density would
flux traveling along Such path 32 results in a force which be if only one magnetic flux producing member were
tends to hold armature 26 in position adjacent pole piece end present. However, the field intensity H resulting from the
faces 22 and 24. The resulting magnetic coupling or holding two members 70 and 72 remains unchanged. This result
force F provided between adjacent pole piece end face 22 holds true regardless of whether members 70 and 72 are both
and armature end face 28, and between adjacent pole piece permanent magnets, are both electromagnets, or are a com
end face 24 and armature end face 30, can be approximated bination of one permanent magnet and one electromagnet.
by the following equation: On the other hand, the properties resulting from magnetic
flux producing members 80 and 82 arranged pole-to-pole in
35 series between pole pieces 84 and 86, with armature 88, as
where B is the magnetic flux density passing through the shown in FIG. 4, will vary depending on the nature of the
adjacent end faces and where A is the Surface area of the members 80 and 82.
adjacent end faces. ASSuming B uniform throughout flux In a first case, if both members 80 and 82 are permanent
path 32 and the area A of all end faces 22, 24, 28, and 30 to magnets, the magnetic field intensity H resulting from the
be the same, the total holding force Fre of armature 26 40 two permanent magnets will be double that of one perma
against pole pieces 18 and 20 will be: nent magnet and the flux density B through armature 88 will
Fro–B'Allo. be the same as what the flux density would be if only one
permanent magnet type member were present.
In FIG. 2 a device 40 having the same magnetic flux In a second case, if both members 80 and 82 are
producing member 12 with magnetic poles 14 and 16 is 45 electromagnets, the field intensity H again doubles and the
shown. Pole pieces 42 and 44 are positioned adjacent flux density B increases according to the B/H curve or
respective pole faces 14 and 16 to provide two paths, as relationship of the pole piece 84, 86 and armature 88
opposed to one above, for the magnetic flux of member 12. materials.
In particular, pole piece 42 includes a first path portion 46 In a third case, if member 80 is a permanent magnet and
extending beyond a perimeter of north pole face 14 in one 50 member 82 is an electromagnet, the field intensity H again
direction and a Second path portion 48 extending beyond the doubles, but, Since the permanent magnet is near flux density
perimeter of north pole face 14 in another direction. Saturation B, the flux density can only be increased from B,
Similarly, pole piece 44 includes a first path portion 50 to B of the permanent magnet. At the point where
extending beyond the perimeter of South pole face 16 in one electromagnet-type member 82 contacts permanent magnet
direction and a Second path portion 52 extending beyond the 55 type member 80 the flux from the electromagnet-type mem
perimeter of South pole face 16 in another direction. Each ber 82 couples with the flux of the permanent magnet-type
pole piece path portion 46, 48, 50, 52 includes a respective member 82 until the flux density through permanent magnet
end face. A first armature 54 is positionable adjacent the end type member 80 reaches B. At that point additional flux
faces of pole piece path portions 48 and 52 to provide a first from electromagnet-type member 82 does not contribute to
magnetic flux path 56 and a second armature 58 is position 60 the flux density along the flux path unless a bypass path
able adjacent the end faces of pole piece path portions 46 around the permanent magnet-type member is provided. Use
and 50 to provide a second magnetic flux path 60. If the flux of such bypass paths will be described hereinbelow.
carrying area along flux paths 56 and 60 is the Same as the Controlling the flow of flux along both one and multiple
flux carrying area along flux path 32 of FIG. 1, the magnetic flux paths is best described with reference to FIGS. 5-9. In
flux density along each flux path 56 and 60 will be one-half 65 FIGS. 5 and 6 a permanent magnet device 90 including a
the magnetic flux density along flux path 32 of FIG. 1 permanent magnet 92 having pole pieces 94 and 96 posi
because the same amount of flux is split between two like tioned adjacent the pole faces thereof and an armature 98
 US 6,246,561 B1
7 8
completing a low reluctance path 104 from pole to pole is division is defined herein as a “permanent magnet control
shown. Control coils 100,102 are positioned along path 104. component,” various configurations of which are shown by
When control coils 100,102 are not energized, the magnetic way of example only, and not by way of limitation, in FIGS.
flux of permanent magnet 92 follows path 104 as shown and 10A-10F, FIG. 10A depicts a permanent magnet control
armature 98 is held in place against pole pieces 94, 96 due component 150 in which pole pieces 152 and 154 are
to the resulting magnetic coupling forces. However, if coils positioned adjacent the pole faces of permanent magnet 156
100, 102 are energized to provide an equal but opposing to provide two magnetic flux paths extending from opposite
magnetic flux to that of permanent magnet 92, the result is Sides of permanent magnet. Control coils 158 are positioned
that the magnetic flux of permanent magnet 92 is blocked along each path. FIG. 10B depicts a permanent magnet
and no magnetic flux traverses the path which includes control component 160 in which pole pieces 162 and 164 are
armature 98 and therefore no magnetic coupling forces act positioned against the pole faces of permanent magnet 166
on armature 98 allowing it to fall away as shown in FIG. 6. to provide two Spaced, adjacent magnetic flux paths extend
The permanent magnet device 90 is useful, although as will ing from the same Side of permanent magnet 166. Control
become apparent below, it is more advantageous to provide coils 168 are positioned along each path. FIG. 10C depicts
multiple flux paths rather than one. 15 a permanent magnet control component 170 in which pole
In this regard, in FIG. 7 a permanent magnet device 110 pieces 172 and 174 are configured so as to be positioned
includes a permanent magnet 112 having pole pieces 114, adjacent the pole faces of permanent magnet 176 So as to
116 positioned adjacent the pole faces thereof with arma provide four flux paths, each flux path extending in a
tures 118, 120 completing two low reluctance paths 130,132 respective direction from permanent magnet 176. Control
from pole to pole thereof. Control coils 122, 124 are coils 178 are also positioned along each path. FIG. 10D
positioned along path 130 and control coils 126, 128 are depicts another four path configuration of a permanent
positioned along path 132. The two paths provided are magnet control component 180 in which pole pieces 182,
assumed to be of equal reluctance. With no coils energized, 184 are configured and positioned to provide four flux paths
the magnetic flux of permanent magnet 112 divides equally for permanent magnet 186, with a pair of Spaced, adjacent
along flux path 130 and along flux path 132 Such that both 25 flux paths extending from each side of permanent magnet
armatures 118, 120 are Subjected to a magnetic coupling 186. Control coils 188 are positioned along each path. FIG.
force which holds them in place against pole pieces 114,116. 10E depicts another four path configuration of a permanent
If coils 122, 124 are energized to provide a magnetic flux magnet control component 190 in which all four flux paths
equal to but opposing the magnetic flux which travels along formed by pole pieces 192, 194 extend from one side of
flux path 130 from permanent magnet 112 when no coils are permanent magnet 196. Again, control coils 198 are posi
energized, the result is that the magnetic flux of permanent tioned along each flux path. FIG. 10F still further depicts a
magnet 112 is blocked and no magnetic flux traverses the four path configuration of a permanent magnet control
path which includes armature 118 and therefore no magnetic component 200 in which pole pieces 202,204 extend to one
coupling forces act on armature 118 allowing it to fall away Side of permanent magnet 206, with pole piece 202 defining
as shown in FIG. 8. Further, the magnetic flux traversing 35 four flux paths and with pole piece 204 including a continu
path 132 will be double that of when no coils are energized ous return path. Control coils 208 are positioned along each
and therefore the magnetic coupling force on armature 120 path of pole piece 202. Many other variations are possible.
will be about four (4) times that of when no coils are Accordingly, it is seen that a variety of different configu
energized. By energizing coils 126, 128 in an opposing rations of permanent magnet control components in accor
manner a similar result would be achieved Such that arma 40 dance with the present invention are possible. The important
ture 120 would fall away and such that the magnetic considerations for division of permanent magnet flux in Such
coupling force on armature 118 would be increased. permanent magnet control components include extending
If coils 122, 124 are energized to provide a magnetic flux each pole piece to or beyond the outer perimeter of the pole
equal to and aiding the magnetic flux which travels along face of the permanent magnet in each region where a flux
flux path 130 when no coils are energized, the result is that 45 path is intended and assuring that the pole face of the
the control coils couple completely with the magnetic flux of permanent magnet interSects each of the flux paths. It is not
permanent magnet 112 and no magnetic flux traverses the necessary for each pole piece to include the same number of
path which includes armature 120 and therefore no magnetic path portions extending beyond the perimeter of the respec
coupling forces act on armature 120 allowing it to fall away tive permanent magnet pole face as noted with reference to
as shown in FIG. 9. Further, the magnetic flux traversing 50 permanent magnet control component 200. Although two
path 130 will be double that of when no coils are energized control coils are shown along each of the flux paths in FIGS.
and therefore the magnetic coupling force on armature 118 10A-10E it is apparent from component 200 in FIG. 10F
will be about four (4) times that when no coils are energized. that one control coil positioned along a flux path is generally
By energizing coils 126, 128 in an aiding manner a similar Sufficient for purposes of the present invention. Further,
result would be achieved Such that armature 118 would fall 55 although in the illustrated configurations each pole piece is
away and the magnetic coupling force on armature 120 positioned to contact a respective pole face of the permanent
would be increased. magnet, a Small spacing between a pole piece and its
Based on the foregoing it is seen that the full magnetic adjacent permanent magnet pole face could be provided,
coupling force available from the permanent magnet 112 can particularly in applications where relative movement
be Switched from one path to another path by the application 60 between the Subject pole piece and the permanent magnet
of one half the power it would require for a coil alone to will occur.
produce the same magnetic flux along one path. The ability In its simplest form a two path permanent magnet control
to easily Switch the full magnetic coupling force from one component only requires one control coil positioned along
path to another allows for efficient reciprocating, linear, and one of the control paths to permit the magnetic flux of a
rotary motion and power conversion to be achieved. 65 permanent magnet to be Switched between the two paths. In
The basic device utilized to achieve permanent magnet particular, a side View of Such a two path component 210 is
flux division and to control Such permanent magnet flux shown in FIG. 10G and includes a permanent magnet 211
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pole pieces 212 and 213, and control coil 214 which may be 282,284 are energized to the level where the coils magnetic
connected to a Suitable control circuit. By alternating ener flux just blocks, but does not exceed, the magnetic flux
gizing control coil 214 in an opposing manner and an aiding component 294 (FIG. 12A) from permanent magnet 280. If,
manner the magnetic flux of permanent magnet can be however, coils 282,284 are energized in an opposed exceed
Switched between the path including armature 215 and the ing manner an exceSS coil magnetic flux component 301 is
path including armature 216. When control coil 214 is produced which travels a path including armature 290 and
energized in an opposing manner the magnetic flux will bypass 272 results as shown in FIG. 12C.
traverse the path including armature 215 and when control Coils 286,288 may be energized in an aiding manner such
coil 214 is energized in an aiding manner the magnetic flux that all permanent magnet magnetic flux travels along the
will traverse the path including armature 216. Control coil path which includes armature 292 as shown in FIG. 12D. If
214 could also be placed at anyone of positions 217, 218, or coils 286, 288 are energized in excess of the level of FIG.
219 to achieve the flux path Switching. Further, in the two 12D then the excess magnetic flux component 304 traverses
coils embodiment shown in FIG. 10H control coil 217 is the path which includes armature 292 and bypass 274 as
added. In Such a device flux Switching can be achieved by shown in FIG. 12E, thereby increasing the magnetic cou
Simultaneously energizing control coil 214 in a flux aiding 15 pling force on armature 292 as compared to FIG. 12D. The
manner and control coil 217 in a flux opposing manner, and advantage of incorporating Such bypasses into permanent
by then Simultaneously reversing the energization of the magnet control components in certain applications will
respective control coils 214 and 217. become apparent below.
Reference is made to FIGS. 11A-11F which depict Reciprocating Motion
devices similar to that of FIGS. 5-6 except that a bypass,
formed of magnetic material, is provided in each case. In AS mentioned above, controlling the path of magnetic flux
device 220 of FIGS. 11A-11C a bypass 222 is provided from from a permanent magnet can be useful in a variety of
pole piece 224 to pole piece 226 and is located between applications Such as achieving reciprocating motion. In this
permanent magnet 228 and control coils 230, 232, with regard, if the device 110 of FIGS. 7–9 is modified such that
armature 234 located adjacent the ends of pole pieces 224, 25 armatures 118 and 120 are fixed to a sliding shaft 320 as
226. In FIG. 11A with no coil energization, magnet flux shown in FIGS. 13A-13C, and if the distance between the
components 236 and 237 travel as shown. When coils 230 armatures is greater than the end to end length of pole pieces
and 232 are energized in an aiding or adding manner as in 114, 116, limited linear motion in two directions (left and
FIG. 11B, the result is permanent magnet magnetic flux right in FIGS. 13 A-13C), and therefore linear reciprocating
components 236 and 237 traveling as shown, and with the motion, can be achieved by the timed, alternate delivery of
added magnetic flux component 238 from coils 230 and 232 electrical signals to control coils 122, 124 and control coils
also traveling as shown. Thus, in device 220 energizing the 126, 128. By way of example, FIG. 13A represents the
coils in an aiding manner results in an increased magnetic position of shaft connected armatures 118, 120 when coils
coupling force on armature 234. In FIG. 11C coils 230, 232 122, 124 are energized in an opposing manner to block the
are energized in an opposing exceeding manner which 35 flux of permanent magnet 112 Such that all magnetic flux
results in permanent magnetic flux components 236 and 237 traverses path 132 as shown and Such that the resulting
traveling as shown and exceSS magnetic flux component 238 magnetic coupling force acts to the left as indicated by arrow
traveling as shown. Thus, in device 220 energizing the coils 322. As shown in FIG. 13B when coils 122, 124 are
in an opposing exceeding manner results in magnetic cou de-energized the magnetic flux from permanent magnet 112
pling force on armature 234, albeit Smaller than that in the 40 can again travel along path 130 through armature 118.
aiding exceeding case. However, due to the air gap 324 between armature 118 and
In device 240 of FIGS. 11D-11F a bypass 242 is provided pole pieces 114, 116 the reluctance along path 130 will be
between pole piece 244 and pole piece 246 but is located on Significantly greater than the reluctance along path 132.
an opposite Side of permanent magnet 248 as compared to Accordingly, the amount of magnetic flux which flows along
control coils 250, 252 and armature 254. Permanent magnet 45 path 130 will be less than the amount of magnetic flux which
flux components 256 and 257 are shown for no coil ener flows along path 132 Such that the magnetic coupling force
gization in FIG. 11D. In FIG. 11E the paths of permanent on armature 118 acting to the right will be significantly leSS
magnet flux components 256 and 257, as well as excess coil than the magnetic coupling force on armature 120 acting to
magnetic flux 258, are shown when coils 250, 252 are the left as shown by arrows 326 and 328, which arrows are
energized in an aiding exceeding manner. In FIG. 11F the 50 sized to represent the Strength of the respective directional
path of each magnetic flux component 256, 257, and 258 is force. FIG. 13C represents the position of shaft connected
shown when coils 230, 232 are energized in an opposed armatures 118, 120 after coils 126, 128 are energized in a
exceeding manner. manner to oppose the flux of permanent magnet 112 Such
FIGS. 12A-12E depict a device 270 similar to that shown that all flux traverses path 130 and the resulting magnetic
in FIGS. 7–9 except that bypasses 272 and 274 are provided 55 coupling force on armature 118, depicted by arrow 330,
from pole piece 276 to pole piece 278. Bypass 272 is located moves the shaft 10 connected armatures 118, 120 to the
between permanent magnet 280 and control coils 282,284 right.
and bypass 274 is located between permanent magnet 280 Control coils 122, 124 and 126, 128 could also be
and control coils 286, 288. Armatures 290 and 292 are also energized in a flux aiding manner to achieve the same result.
provided. When no coils are energized permanent magnet 60 In such a device, FIG. 13A would represent coils 126, 128
magnetic flux components 294, 296,298, and 300 travel as energized to aid magnetic flux along path 132, FIG. 13B
shown in FIG. 12A. would again represent no coils energized, and FIG. 13C
If coils 282, 284 are energized in an opposing manner would represent coils 122, 124 energized to aid magnetic
permanent magnet flux components 295,297, and 299 travel flux along path 130.
as shown, with no flux component traversing the path which 65 Thus, by alternatingly energizing and de-energizing con
includes armature 290 and therefore no magnetic coupling trol coils 122, 124 and 126, 128 a linear reciprocating
force acting thereon. This would be the case for when coils motion of shaft connected armatures 118, 120 may be
 US 6,246,561 B1
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achieved. Further, Such reciprocating motion may be exceSS magnetic flux produced by coils 122, 124 adds to the
achieved by energizing the coils in either an opposing or permanent magnet flux traversing the path which includes
aiding manner. The magnetic coupling force exerted on a armature 120, thus increasing the magnetic coupling force
given armature when 20 the control coils are energized to on armature 120, while at the same time providing a
establish all magnetic flux along a single path which magnetic coupling force on armature 118.
includes that armature is significantly greater than the mag In a reciprocating device where armatures 118 and 120 are
netic coupling force which would be exerted on Such arma connected by shaft 320 as shown in FIGS. 13A-13C and
ture by an identical energization of the control coils in the again in FIG. 16, excess magnetic flux 384 will increase
absence of the permanent magnet. This is demonstrated with magnetic coupling force 390 on armature 120 acting to the
reference to FIG. 14 which depicts a reciprocating device left. However, because Such excess flux 384 also traverses
340 in which only coils or electromagnets are utilized. As the path which includes armature 118, Such exceSS magnetic
shown armatures 342 and 344 are connected by shaft 346, flux 384 also results in a magnetic coupling force 392 on
and each armature 342, 344 includes a respective U-shaped armature 118 which acts to the right. Even though excess
pole path piece 348, 350 which pole path pieces are magnetic flux 384 traversing the path which includes an
mechanically connected by a non-magnetic material 352. 15 armature 118 has an opposite polarity to that which would
Each pole path piece 348 and 350 has respective control traverse the path due to permanent magnet 112, the magnetic
coils 354, 356 and 358, 360 positioned therealong. By coupling force on armature 118 still acts to the right because
comparison with the device of FIGS. 13A-13C, if coils 358, armature 118 is not polarity sensitive, that is, armature 118
360 of device 340 are energized to cause magnetic flux flow will be attracted regardless of the direction of the magnetic
in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, along flux traversing the path. The overall effect is that a resultant
path 362, the amount of electrical energy which would be force which is the difference between force 390 and force
required in order to achieve the same magnetic coupling 392 will act on the shaft-connected armatures 118, 120.
force on armature 344 as achieved on armature 120 above in However, if armatures 118 and 120 were formed by perma
FIG. 13A would be twice that delivered to coils 122, 124 or nent magnets having polarities as shown at the top and
126, 128 in FIG. 13A. It is therefore demonstrated that by 25 bottom of Such armatures, the force acting on each armature
controlling or Switching the flow of magnetic flux from a would be in the same direction and therefore additive.
permanent magnet between at least two different paths In this regard reference is made to FIG. 16B in which a
results in greater coupling forces per unit of input electrical two path device 371 having four control coils 373,375, 377
energy, and therefore that Such control or Switching will and 379 is shown with the illustrated armatures being
enable more work to be achieved per unit of input electrical formed by permanent magnets 381 and 383 having polarities
energy. as shown. With no coils energized both permanent magnet
AS described above, if a coil is energized beyond the point armatures 381 and 383 are attracted to the ends of pole
where the magnetic flux produced by the coil aiding the pieces 385 and 387. With coils 373 375 energized in an
amount of the permanent magnet's flux that is either opposing manner and coils 377, 379 energized in an aiding
opposed or aided, the extra magnetic flux needs a low 35 manner, the attractive force on permanent magnet armature
reluctance path between the poles of the coil that produces 383 will generally increase and the attractive force on
the exceSS magnetic flux. If a complete low reluctance path permanent magnet armature 381 will generally decrease.
is not provided for the exceSS magnetic flux there is little This is demonstrated with reference to the graph of FIG.16C
potential for taking advantage of the exceSS magnetic flux in which depicts a graph of the current flowing in the control
terms of producing additional magnetic coupling forces. The 40 coils on the X-axis verses the magnetic flux in gauSS on the
path for Such exceSS flux cannot be through a permanent y-axis with line 389 representing the flux along the aiding
magnet member. In assemblies which include an armature side of device 371 and line 391 representing the flux along
on each path, the armature will provide the necessary low the opposing Side of device 371. AS shown the magnetic flux
reluctance path. Referring to FIG. 15, various components on the coil opposing Side decreases as the coil current
of the magnetic flux in device 110 (FIGS. 7–9) are depicted 45 increases and passed through Zero at point 393. After point
by numerals 380, 382, and 384 for the case when coils 122, 393 reverse magnetic flux begins to be produced and would
124 are energized to oppose the magnetic flux of permanent result in a repelling force on permanent magnet armature
magnet 112 in an amount which exceeds the level of 381. In Some applications particularly those where perma
magnetic flux which permanent magnet 112 would cause to nent magnet armatures and rotors are not utilized, it will be
flow through armature 118 when no coils are energized. FIG. 50 critical to recognize point 393 So that reverse magnetic flux
15 is likewise representative of the case when coils 126, 128 is not produced. In this regard reference is made to FIGS.
are energized to aid the magnetic flux of permanent magnet 16D and 16E in which use of Hall Effect Switches 401 and
112 in an amount which exceeds the level of magnetic flux 403 is incorporated to enable controlling the coil energizing
which permanent magnet 112 would cause to flow through current in Situations where it is desirable to prevent reverse
armature 118 when no coils are energized. In particular, 55 magnetic flux. As shown small bypasses 405 and 407 are
magnetic flux component 380 represents the magnetic flux provided with Hall Effect Switches 401 and 403 disposed in
of permanent magnet 112 which normally flows through the gaps therealong, the Switches being connected to control
path including armature 120; magnetic flux component 382 circuit 409. As the flux traveling along the bypass path falls
represents the magnetic flux of permanent magnet 112 which to Zero the Hall Effect switch can be utilized to prevent
is diverted by the opposing field of coils 122, 124 so as to 60 further energization of the control coils So that no reverse
traverse the path which includes armature 120; and magnetic flux is created.
flux component 384 represents the magnetic flux produced Another embodiment of a device 400 which would pro
by coils 122, 124 which is in excess of the diverted magnetic vide reciprocating motion is shown in FIGS. 17A-17D in
flux 382. As shown, the excess magnetic flux 384 produced which a permanent magnet control component 402 having
by coils 122, 124 traverses the path which includes armature 65 two flux paths may is provided. A first pole piece 404 has
120 and bypasses permanent magnet 112 So as to also two spaced, adjacent path portions 406 and 408 extending
traverse the path which includes armature 118. Thus, the beyond the perimeter of the pole face of permanent magnet
 US 6,246,561 B1
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410, and a Second pole piece 412 includes only one con energization resultant magnetic forces depicted by arrows
tinuous portion 414 extending beyond the perimeter of the 460, 462 in FIG. 18D and arrows 464, 466 in FIG. 18Eact
pole face of permanent magnet 410, each path portion 406 to continue movement of permanent magnet control com
and 408 of pole piece 404 being substantially aligned with ponent 440 to the left. Thus, if permanent magnet control
at least a part of portion 414 of pole piece 412. Control coil component 440 were fixed to a device or structure, con
416 is positioned along pole piece path portion 406 and trolled movement of the device or Structure along the path
control coil 418 is positioned along pole piece portion 408. defined by armatures 454 could be achieved. Conversely, if
An armature 420 is positioned in the region between pole permanent magnet control component 440 were fixed and
piece path portions 404, 406 and pole piece portion 414 and armatures 454 were located on a device or Structure, con
trolled movement of the device or structure could also be
is free to slide from side to side as shown by arrows 422 and achieved. It is also easily recognized that by varying the coil
424. A front view of component device 400 with no coils energization Sequence and timing relative movement in the
energized and armature 420 at a mid-point depicts flux opposite direction can be achieved. Further, if the permanent
flowing from the north pole face of permanent magnet 410, magnet was doughnut shaped and the armatures were
through each of pole piece path portions 406 and 408, arranged in a circumferential pattern, rotary motion would
through armature 420, and returning to the South pole face 15 likewise be achievable.
through pole piece portion 414. Thus, the magnetic flux
divides equally along two paths. If coil 416 is energized in Rotary Motion
an aiding manner, or if coil 418 is energized in an opposing One embodiment of a rotary motion device or motor 500
manner, all or a majority of the permanent which incorporates various permanent magnet flux control
magnets magnetic flux can be made to flow through pole aspects of the present invention is shown in the exploded
piece portion 406 Such that a resulting magnetic coupling view of FIG. 19 and in the partial assembled view of FIG.
force on armature 420 causes it to move to the left as shown 20. Motor 500 includes a rotor assembly which includes a
in FIG. 17C. shaft 502 and associated upper bearing 504, a non-magnetic
Likewise, if control coil 416 is energized in an opposing disk member 506 mounted for rotation with shaft 502, and
manner, or if control coil 418 is energized in an aiding 25 a rotor pole piece 508 which is mounted for rotation with
manner, all or a majority of the permanent magnet flux can disk member 506 Such as by the use of screws 510. Rotor
be made to flow through pole piece path portion 408 Such pole piece 508 includes a ring-shaped portion having two
that a resulting magnetic coupling force on armature 420 inwardly extending magnetic flux path portions 512A and
causes it to move to the right as shown in FIG. 17D. 512B. A stator assembly of motor 500 includes a doughnut
Accordingly, by alternately energizing and de-energizing or ring-shaped permanent magnet 514 having an upwardly
coils 416 and 418 a reciprocating motion of armature 420 directed north pole face positioned adjacent and in close
may be achieved. proximity to rotor pole piece 508, and a downwardly
directed South pole face positioned adjacent and in contact
Linear Motion with a Stator pole piece 516. Stator pole piece includes a
Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18E, linear motion in accor 35 ring-shaped portion having five inwardly projecting path
dance with the present invention is described. In particular, portions 518A-518E. Each path portion includes a respec
a permanent magnet control component 440 including a tive winding post 520A-520E extending therefrom and
permanent magnet 442 with a pole piece 444 positioned having a respective control coil 522A-522E wound thereon.
against the north pole face thereof and a pole piece 446 Stator pole piece faces 524A-524E are positionable on
positioned against the South pole face thereof is shown in an 40 respective winding posts 518A-518B and, as shown in the
exploded view in FIG. 18A and assembled in FIG. 18B. Pole partial assembly of FIG. 20, are substantially aligned with
piece 444 includes five path portions 448A-448E which the top Surface of permanent magnet 514 So as to be
extend beyond the perimeter of the north pole face of positionable adjacent rotor path portions 512A and 512B
permanent magnet 442 to one side thereof and at respective when aligned therewith. Each of winding posts 518A-518E
positions along the length thereof, each path portion 45 and Stator pole piece faces are formed of magnetic material,
448A-448E including a respective control coil 450A-450E and although shown as Separate pieces, an integral, one
positioned therearound. Pole piece 446 includes one portion piece Stator could be formed with Similar winding posts and
452 extending beyond the perimeter of the South pole face pole piece faces machined thereon. Lower bearing 526 is
of permanent magnet 442 to the one side thereof, which also shown.
portion 452 extends along the entire length of permanent 50 FIGS. 21A-21E illustrate top views of the partial assem
magnet 442. A plurality of armatures 454 define a path of bly of FIG. 20 with magnetic flux shown. In FIG. 21A
relative movement between permanent magnet control com magnetic flux travel when none of coils 522A-522E are
ponent 440 and such armatures 454, and by providing timed energized is depicted. Disregarding leakage flux, due to the
energization of given control coils 450A-450E such relative low reluctance path provided by rotor pole piece path
movement can be achieved. The Sequence of Side views 55 portions 512A and 512B, the majority of magnetic flux from
depicted in FIGS. 18C-18E illustrate such relative the north pole face of permanent magnet 514 will travel
movement, with coils 450A, 450C and 450E being ener radially inward along one of Such path portions before
gized in an opposing manner Simultaneously in FIG. 18C, passing downward through the Stator assembly and returning
with coils 450A and 450D being energized simultaneously to the South pole face of permanent magnet 514. It is noted
in an opposing manner in FIG. 18D, and with coils 450B and 60 that rotor pole piece 508 includes two path portions and
450D being energized simultaneously in an opposing man stator pole piece 516 includes five path portions such that
ner in FIG. 18.E. In FIG. 18C, magnetic flux will only flow rotor pole piece path portions 512A and 512B will always be
along path portions 448B and 448C of pole piece 444 skewed relative to the stator pole piece faces 524A-524E.
causing resultant magnetic coupling forces depicted by Only one rotor pole piece path portion can directly align
arrows 456, 458 which act to move permanent magnet 65 with a Stator pole piece face at a given time. By alternatingly
control component 440 to the left, assuming armatures 454 energizing the control coils of each of the Stator pole piece
are fixed. Similarly, due to the timing of Subsequent coil paths, rotary motion of the rotor may be achieved.
 US 6,246,561 B1
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In particular, referring to FIGS. 21 B-21D, an energizing and 588. Stator pole piece 586 includes two path portions
Sequence which results in Such rotary motion is described. In 590A and 590B extending away from permanent magnets
FIG. 21B, control coils 522A and 522C are energized in a 582, 584 in opposite directions. Likewise, stator pole piece
permanent magnet flux opposing manner. Permanent magnet 588 includes two path portions 592A and 592B extending
magnetic flux traveling along rotor pole piece path portion away from permanent magnets 582, 584 in opposite direc
512A tends to traverse to stator pole piece face 524B causing tions and alignable respectively with Stator pole piece path
a magnetic coupling force indicated by arrow 526. Likewise, portions 590A and 590B. Control coils 594, 596, 598, and
permanent magnet flux traveling along rotor pole piece path 600 are each positioned along a respective Stator pole piece
portion 512B tends to traverse to stator pole piece face 524D path portion as shown. A non-magnetic shaft 602 includes a
causing a magnetic coupling force indicated by arrow 528. pair of like elongated rotor members 604 and 606, formed of
The result is rotation of rotor pole piece 508 in a clockwise magnetic material, mounted at Spaced locations thereon and
direction as indicated by arrow 530. being angularly oriented with respect to each other, Shaft 602
Referring to FIG. 21C, just after rotor pole piece path passing between Spaced permanent magnets 582 and 584.
portion 512B is no longer aligned with Stator pole piece face Non-magnetic end cap members 608 and 610 are attachable
524D, control coil 522C is de-energized and control coil 15 to the ends of stator pole pieces 586 and 588 and are
configured for receiving shaft 602 and respective bearings
522D is energized in an opposing manner Such that the 612 and 614.
permanent magnet flux traveling along rotor pole piece path The ends of respective stator pole pieces 506 and 508 are
512B tends to traverse to stator pole piece face 524E configured for a given desired coupling relationship with
resulting in magnetic coupling force indicated by arrow 532. rotor members 604 and 606. For example, as shown in the
Control coil 522A remains energized Such that a magnetic exemplary end views of FIGS. 25A and 25B, with end cap
coupling force indicated by arrow 534 results. Accordingly, 608 removed, the end of stator pole piece 586 may include
clockwise rotation of rotor pole piece 508 is continued. an arcuate portion 616 which is configured to create a
In FIG. 21D, just after rotor pole piece path portion 512A variable reluctance air gap 618 with elongate rotor member
is no longer aligned with Stator pole piece face 524B, control 25 604. The end of stator pole piece 588 includes an arcuate
coil 522A is de-energized and control coil 522B is energized portion 620 which is likewise configured to create a variable
in a permanent magnet magnetic flux opposing manner Such reluctance air gap 622 with rotor member 604. In particular,
that the permanent magnet magnetic flux traveling along portion 618 includes a circumferential curvature which has
rotor pole piece path 512A tends to traverse to Stator pole a center point offset below the axis of rotation of shaft 602
piece face 524C Such that a magnetic coupling force indi and rotor member 604 as indicated by circle 624 shown in
cated by arrow 536 results. Control coil 522D remains shadow. Similarly, portion 620 includes a circumferential
energized Such that a magnetic coupling force indicated by radius of curvature which has a center point offset above the
arrow 538 results, and clockwise rotation of rotor pole piece axis of rotation of shaft 602 and rotor member 604. When
508 is continued. magnetic flux is passing along the path which includes a
As shown in FIG. 21E, just after rotor pole piece path 35 given end of the assembly, maximum coupling between the
portion 512B is no longer aligned with Stator pole piece face rotor member and Stator pole pieces occurs when the rotor
524E, control coil 522D is de-energized and control coil is positioned as shown in FIG. 25B. Accordingly, the illus
522E is energized in a permanent magnet magnetic flux trated rotor member and Stator pole piece configurations in
opposing manner Such that the permanent magnet magnetic and of themselves do not provide any skewing to the
flux traveling along rotor pole piece path 512B tends to 40 direction of rotation of the rotor assembly.
traverse to Stator pole piece face 524A Such that a magnetic In this regard, various configurations for the rotor and
coupling force indicated by arrow 540 results. Control coil ends of the Stator pole pieces are shown in the end views of
522B remains energized Such that a magnetic coupling force FIGS. 26-28, which configurations provide skewing the
indicated by arrow 542 results, and clockwise rotation of direction of rotation. In particular, in device 620 of FIG. 26
rotor pole piece 508 is continued. 45 a rotor member 622 having notches 624 and 626, which
Thus, by alternating energizing and de-energizing control notches provide for greater magnetic coupling with the
coils 522A-522E, in a predetermined timed sequence based stator pole pieces 628 and 630 at corners 632 and 634 such
upon rotation of the rotor assembly, continued rotation that rotation is skewed in the clockwise direction. If notches
movement of rotor pole piece 508 may be achieved. Such an were instead located at corners 632 and 634, skewed rotation
energization/de-energization Scheme can be achieved utiliz 50 in the counterclockwise direction would be the result. In
ing circuitry common in the art, Such as the control circuitry device 620 Such counterclockwise rotation could also be
described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,463,263 and achieved by removing rotor 622 from shaft 636, flipping it
5,455,474, as well as various of the circuit configurations end to end, and replacing it on Shaft 636.
described herein below. Referring now to FIG. 22, an In the device 640 of FIG. 27, a portion 642 of the arcuate
assembled view of rotary motor 500 is shown including a 55 end portion of Stator pole piece 644 is removed and a portion
housing or cover formed by an upper housing member 544 646 of the arcuate end portion of stator pole piece 648 is
and a lower housing member 546, with portions of each removed. This configuration results in greater magnetic
housing member cut away to expose motor Structure coupling between rotor member 650 and stator pole piece
described above. It is recognized that Such housing members 644 at corner 652, and greater magnetic coupling between
544 and 546 should be formed of a non-magnetic material, 60 rotor member 650 and stator pole piece 648 at corner 654,
and likewise that motor shaft 502 and bearings 504,526 Such that rotation is skewed in the counterclockwise direc
should be formed of a non-magnetic material. tion. Clockwise rotation could be achieved by instead modi
In another embodiment, a rotary motion device or motor fying the opposite side of stator pole pieces 644 and 648.
580 in accordance with the present invention is shown in an FIG. 28 depicts an end view of a device 660 in which the
exploded perspective view in FIG. 23 and in an assembled 65 axis 662 of the arcuate end portion of upper Stator pole piece
perspective View in FIG. 24. Two Spaced permanent magnets 664 and lower Stator pole piece 666 is placed at an angle A
582 and 584 are positionable between stator pole pieces 586 as shown. This configuration creates an unequal variable
 US 6,246,561 B1
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reluctance air gap where opposite corners of rotor member 670 including permanent magnet 672, stator pole piece 674
668 are closer to stator pole pieces 664 and 666. Further, the with path portions 676A and 676B having respective control
angle at which maximum magnetic coupling between rotor coils 678 and 680, and stator pole piece 682 with path
member 668 and stator pole pieces 664 and 666 occurs is portions 684A and 684B having respective control coils 686
retarded by angle A. Rotation would be in the counterclock and 688. The end of each of the pole piece path portions
wise direction for the illustrated configuration. 658A, 658B, 664A, 664B, 676A, 676B, 684A, and 684B is
Referring again to motor 580 of FIGS. 23–25, rotary of a generally arcuate configuration.
motion of such device is depicted in the end views of FIG. A rotor assembly of motor 650 includes a non-magnetic
29A-29D. In each end view the end cap has been removed shaft 700 having a permanent magnet rotor member 702
to show rotation of the rotor members and in each of FIGS. mounted thereon for rotation therewith. Permanent magnet
29A-29D an end view depicting rotor member 604 and an rotor member 702 is generally ring-shaped and Segmented to
end view depicting rotor member 606 are shown side-by include distinct north and South pole faces which reverse
side. In FIG. 29A, rotor member 604 is defined as being at about every ninety degrees therearound. When assembled
Zero degrees and rotor member 606 is defined as being at the top and bottom Surfaces of permanent magnet rotor
ninety degrees. Control coils 594, 598 are energized in a 15
member 702 align with pole pieces 654, 656, 674, and 682
permanent magnet magnetic flux aiding manner Such that no of the Stator assembly and are preferably configured Such
magnetic flux passes through Stator pole piece path portions that a minimal gap between the outer Surface of permanent
590B and 592B. This allows rotor member 606 to move out magnet rotor member 702 and the arcuate surfaces of the
of its ninety degree position and the magnetic coupling pole piece path portions is provided.
between rotor member 604 and stator pole piece path Rotation of device 650 can be achieved by controlled,
portions 590A and 592A will cause rotation to the position timed energizing and de-energizing of control coils 660,
shown in FIG. 29B and then FIG. 29C. When rotor member 662, 666, 668, 678,680, 686, and 688. Exemplary rotation
604 reaches the ninety degree position shown in FIG. 29D is demonstrated with reference to the top views of FIGS.
32A-32B which depict counterclockwise rotation of perma
control coils 594, 598 are de-energized and control coils nent magnet rotor member 702 through one-hundred eighty
596,600 are energized in a permanent magnet magnetic flux 25 degrees. In FIG. 32A stator pole piece path portion 658A of
aiding manner causing rotation to continue due to the component 651 is active and Stator pole piece path portion
magnetic coupling between rotor member 606 and Stator 658B is not active, which may be achieved by energizing
pole piece path portions 590B and 592B. Thus, by alternat control coil 660 in a permanent magnet magnetic flux aiding
ingly energizing the control coils of each path with every manner or by energizing control coil 662 in a permanent
ninety degree rotation of rotor members 604 and 606, magnet magnetic flux opposing manner. Stator pole piece
continuous rotary motion is achieved. path portion 676B of component 670 is active and stator pole
The initial direction of rotation can be controlled by the piece path portion 676A is not active, which may be
circuit means used to energize control coils 594, 598 and achieved by energizing control coil 680 in a permanent
596, 600, which circuit means includes circuitry for detect magnet magnetic flux aiding manner or by energizing con
ing the angular position of the rotor members. In particular, 35 trol coil 678 in a permanent magnet magnetic flux opposing
if rotor members 604 and 606 are at rest in the position manner. Thus, portions 690 and 692 of permanent magnet
shown in FIG. 29A, and coils 594, 598 are energized in an rotor member 702, which both have a north magnetic
aiding manner, rotation may be clockwise or counterclock polarity, will be repelled by the north polarity of stator pole
wise. If the desired direction is clockwise but upon energi piece path portions 658A and 676B aligned therewith.
zation of coils 594, 598 the rotor members begin to move 40 Portions 694 and 696 of permanent magnet rotor member
counterclockwise, the detection circuitry will immediately 702, both of which have a south magnetic polarity, will be
de-energize coils 594,598 and energize coils 596, 600 so attracted to the active path portions 658A and 676B. At the
that the counterclockwise direction is achieved. instant that rotor member portion 694 becomes aligned with
Further, bypasses around permanent magnets 582 and 584 stator pole piece path portion 658A, as shown in FIG. 32B,
could be provided in rotary motion device 580, such as those 45 all coils are de-energized Such that all pole piece path
shown in FIG. 12, and rotor members 604 and 606 could be portions will be active as shown. Pole piece path portions
formed by permanent magnets So as to take advantage of 658B and 676A are then kept active while pole piece path
energizing the control coils in an exceeding manner. portions 658A and 676B are made inactive. This is achieved
A third embodiment of a rotary motion device or motor by energizing control coils 662 and 678 in a permanent
650 is shown in the exploded partial perspective view of 50 magnet magnetic flux aiding manner or by energizing con
FIG. 30 and in the assembled partial perspective view of trol coils 660 and 680 in a permanent magnet magnetic flux
FIG. 31. In motor 650 the stator assembly includes a control opposing manner. Rotor member portions 690 and 692 will
component 651 including a permanent magnet 652 having a again be repelled by the north polarity of path portions 658B
Stator pole piece 654 positioned adjacent one pole face and 676A aligned therewith such that rotation of permanent
thereof and a Stator pole piece 656 positioned adjacent the 55 magnet rotor 702 is continued. In FIG. 32D all coils are
opposite pole face thereof. Stator pole piece 654 includes a shown de-energized when rotor portion 692 aligns with pole
path portion 658A extending to one side of permanent piece path portion 658A. By continuing this timed Sequence
magnet 652 and a path portion 658B extending to the one of energization and de-energization of the control coils,
side thereof and spaced from first path portion 658A. Con continued rotary movement is achieved. AS explained above,
trol coils 660 and 662 are positioned along respective stator 60 the initial direction of rotation can be controlled by circuit
pole piece path portions 658A and 658 B. Likewise, stator means which detects the initial direction of permanent
pole piece 656 includes path portions 664A and 664B which magnet rotor 702 and immediately alters the coil energiza
extend in a similar manner therefrom So as to be aligned with tion Scheme if the initial direction is incorrect.
stator path portions 658A and 658B respectively. Control Aside view of assembled motor 650 is shown in FIG. 33
coils 666 and 668 are positioned along respective stator pole 65 and includes an upper housing or enclosure portion 710, a
piece path portions 664A and 664B. Positioned opposite and bottom housing portion 712, upper bearing 714, and a lower
facing control component 651 is a like control component bearing 716.
 US 6,246,561 B1
19 20
A fourth embodiment of a rotary motion device or motor In circuit 820 of FIG. 41 a coil 822 is positioned between
740 is illustrated in FIGS. 34–39. Motor 740 includes five electrical energy source 824 and power mosfet 826. A hall
stator control components 742A-742E positioned around a Switch 828 is connected in series with resistor 830. Hall
ring shaped permanent magnet rotor member 744 (FIG.36). Switch 828 is also connected to the control input of mosfelt
As shown with reference to component 742A in FIG. 37 826 through resistor 832. In a given device hall switch 828
each Stator component 742A includes a permanent magnet would be positioned to react to a change in magnetic flux So
746A with an upper pole piece 748Apositioned adjacent one as to control the ON/OFF switching of mosfet 826, and thus
pole face thereof and a lower pole piece 750A positioned the alternate energization and de-energization of coil 822.
adjacent the opposite pole face thereof. Control coils 752A,
754A are positioned along respective pole pieces 748A, In FIG. 43 a circuit 840 for controlling two coils in an
750A. A bypass 756A extends from pole piece 748A to pole opposite manner is provided such that when coil 842 is
piece 750A and is positioned between permanent magnet energized coil 844 is de-energized, and Such that when coil
746A and control coils 752A, 754A. Alternatively, bypass 842 is de-energized coil 844 is energized. Both coils 842 and
756A could be provided on the opposite side of permanent 844 are connected in Series between electrical energy Source
magnet 746A as shown in FIG. 38. Although not shown, it 846 and respective power mosfets 848 and 850. An LED 852
is anticipated that permanent magnet rotor member 744 15 and phototransistor 854 arrangement is provided, LED con
would be mounted on an axis for rotation therewith and that nected in series with resistor 856 and phototransistor con
a motor housing or enclosure could be provided, Such as nected in Series with resistor 858. When LED 852 turns
shown in relation to motor 650 of FIG. 33. phototransistor 854 ON the voltage drop across resistor 858
Referring to the top views of FIGS. 39A-39D, rotary turns mosfet 848 ON and coil 842 is energized. At that time
motion of rotor member 744 is depicted by the sequence of the voltage applied at the control input of mosfet 850 will be
views. Regions 770 and 772 in FIGS. 39A-39D represent low and therefore mosfet 850 will be OFF and coil 844 will
the magnetic north regions of the top of permanent magnet be de-energized. When interrupter 814 blocks LED 852,
rotor 744. In FIG. 39A control coils 752E and 752C are phototransistor 854 is turned OFF and mosfet 848 is like
energized in a permanent magnet aiding and exceeding wise turned OFF. The control input of mosfet 850 is there
manner such that regions 770 and 772 of permanent magnet 25 fore pulled high through resistor 860 and mosfet 850 is
rotor 744 are repulsed by components 742E and 742C while turned ON such that coil 844 is energized.
permanent magnet motor regions 774 and 776 are attracted In a FIG. 44 a system 870 including member 872 mounted
by components 742E and 742C. The resultant coupling on rotating shaft 874 is provided, with the left side of
forces act to move permanent magnet rotor in a counter member 872 being alternately conductive at 876 and non
clockwise direction to the location shown in FIG. 39B. Just
conductive at 878. Coils 880 and 882 are connected to
after permanent magnet rotor region 772 passes the point respective brushes 884 and 886 which are positioned to
shown in FIG. 39C, control coil 752B is energized in a contact member 872 during rotation thereof. Member 872 is
permanent magnet aiding and exceeding manner, while connected through brush 890 to power supply 888. Thus,
control coils 752E and 752C also remain energized, and coils 880 and 882 will alternatingly be energized and
counterclockwise rotation of permanent magnet rotor 744 is 35
de-energized as the respective brushes thereof contact the
continued. Just after permanent magnet rotor region 772 conductive and non-conductive portions of member 872.
passes by control component 742C control coil 752C is
de-energized, while control coils 752E and 752B remain Any of Such circuit means, variations thereof, or other
energized, So as to continue counterclockwise rotation. circuit means may be used to provide the timed energization
Then, just after permanent magnet rotor region 770 reaches 40
of the control coils in the various embodiments of the
the location shown in FIG. 39D control coil 752D is present invention.
energized in a permanent magnet flux aiding and exceeding From the preceding description of the illustrated
manner, while coils 752E and 752B remain energized, so as embodiments, it is evident that the objects of the invention
to continue counterclockwise rotation. Thus, as in the other are attained. Although the invention has been described and
embodiments, repeated and timed energization and 45 illustrated in detail, it is to be clearly understood that the
de-energization of the control coils produces the desired Same is intended by way of illustration and example only
rotational movement. and is not to be taken by way of limitation.
In terms of controlling the energization of coils in the For example, although the magnetic flux control tech
devices described above, various electronic control circuit/ niques of the present invention have been discussed as
Switching means and electromechanical control circuit/ 50 applicable mainly to various motive applications, Such mag
Switching machines are depicted in FIGS. 40-44. In circuit netic flux control techniques are also useful in Static appli
800 of FIG. 40 a given coil 802 is placed in series between cations.
an electrical energy source 804 and a power mosfet 806. An Power Conversion
LED 808 is connected to electrical energy source 804
through resistor 810 and is positioned to impinge upon a 55 Referring to FIGS. 45A-45C there is shown the perma
phototransistor 812 which is connected in series with resis nent magnet device 900 of FIGS. 45A-45C that has two
tor 814. A control input of mosfet 806 is connected between magnetic flux paths provided by rectangular pole piece 902
phototransistor 812 and resistor. Accordingly, when LED which includes upper portion 904 and lower portion 906
808 activates phototransistor 812 the voltage drop across each positioned against a respective pole face of permanent
resistor 814 activates, or turns ON, mosfet 806 and coil 802 60 magnet 910. Unlike the device of FIGS. 7–9, fall away
is energized. Timed energization of coil 802 is provided by armatures are not provided. Rather, fixed armatures in the
mounting an interrupter 816, such as shown in FIG. 42, to form of integral pole piece portions 912 and 914 extend from
the shaft 816 of the motor device to be controlled, Such that upper portion 904 to lower portion 906 completing the two
as interrupter 814 rotates with shaft 816 coil 802 is alter flux paths in a permanent manner. Control coils 916,918 are
nately energized and de-energized. In a device with a 65 provided along one flux path and control coils 920, 922 are
plurality of coils a corresponding plurality of LED/ provided along the other flux path, Such control coils acting
photoresistor pairs may be provided. as primary windings in device 900. One coil 924 is posi
 US 6,246,561 B1
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tioned around pole piece portion 912 and another coil 926 is between the two working areas of the flux path. In the
positioned around pole piece portion 914, such coils 924, arrangement of FIG. 45A all of the flux of one of the
926 acting as secondary windings in device 900. permanent magnets passes through one of the working
In FIG. 45A coils 916, 918 are energized in a permanent regions and all of the flux of the Second permanent magnet
magnet magnetic flux aiding manner So as to couple with all passes through the other working region. Each of the work
the magnetic flux of permanent magnet 910. All magnetic ing regions in both cases are occupied by Secondary coils.
flux flows along path 930 as shown and thus couples with FIGS. 45Y and 45B show the control coils energized with
coil 924. In FIG. 45B no coils are energized and the the polarity shown with respect to the polarity of the
permanent magnet magnetic flux Splits evenly between paths permanent magnet or magnets included. In FIG. 45Y the
930 and 932, coupling with both coil 924 and coil 926. In opposing coil blocks the passage of flux from the permanent
FIG. 45C coils 920, 922 are energized in a permanent magnet and the aiding coil couples with the flux of the
magnet magnetic flux aiding manner Such that all magnetic permanent magnet and therefore all of the flux of the
flux traverses path 932 and couples with coil 926. In FIG. permanent magnet passes through one working region as
45D no coils are energized as in FIG. 45B. By continuously shown. In FIG. 45A the opposing side of the coil blocks the
alternatingly energizing and de-energizing coils 916, 918 15 passage of flux from the permanent magnet on the opposing
and 920, 922 in such a manner energy conversion is Side of the coil and the aiding Side of the coil couples with
achieved due to the coupling with coils 924 and 926. The the flux of the other permanent magnet and therefore all of
magnetic flux in the integral pole piece portions 912 and the flux of both the permanent magnets passes through the
914, and thus the flux coupling with respective coils 924 and working region as shown.
926, varies by a factor of twice the amount of magnetic flux FIGS. 45Z and 45C show the control coils energized with
generated by energizing coils 916, 918 and 920, 922. a polarity opposite of that shown in FIGS. 45Y and 45B. The
The construction shown in FIGS. 45A and 45X are similar Same action occurs and results in all of the permanent
to the construction shown in FIGS. 7 and 47. The difference magnet or magnets path flux passing through the opposite
in both cases relates to replacing the two flux paths and 25
Working regions.
armatures with one continues flux path. The arrangement in By alternating the polarity of the control coils during one
FIG. 7 has one permanent magnet and four coils and the cycle, one Working region eXperiences an increasing flux
arrangement in FIG. 47 has two permanent magnets and two and the opposite region experiences a decreasing flux and
coils. Although the physical aspects of the two arrangements during the next cycle the opposite occurs. This results in the
and the details of the flux control vary, the control method induction of a Voltage in the Secondary coils that is decided
for varying the permanent magnets flux are similar and will by the magnitude of the change in flux in the working region
be described simultaneously and only differences will be and the time in which this change occurs. The novelty of this
pointed out. discovery is that the primary flux inducing the Voltage in the
With continuous flux paths the static flux from the per Secondary coils is Supplied by the permanent magnet or
manent magnet or magnets is useleSS. However, if the Static 35 magnets and is far greater than the flux Supplied by the
flux of the permanent magnet confined to the flux paths were control coils.
modified to be time varying it would have utility for elec Further, in the rotary motion devices of FIGS. 31 and 34,
tromagnetic induction devices for power conversion like it is not necessary that respective rotor members 702 and 744
transformers and power inverters. However, the same basic be formed of permanent magnets. Each could take the form
method for controlling the flux of a permanent magnet to 40 shown in FIG. 46 where Sections 950 and 952 are formed of
provide linear and rotary motion can also be applied to time magnetic material such as soft iron and sections 954 and 956
varying the Static flux from the permanent magnetic. The are formed by a non-magnetic filler material.
construction shown in FIG. 45X utilizes four control coils FIGS. 47 and 48 show another embodiment 1000 of the
and a single permanent magnet and the construction shown subject device. The embodiment 1000 includes two spaced
in FIG. 45A uses two control coils and two permanent 45 permanent magnets 1002 and 1004 each of which has its
magnets. The flux that would normally be supplied by a north pole adjacent the upper Surface and its South pole
primary winding is Supplied by the Static flux of the perma adjacent the lower Surface. A magnetizable bridging member
nent magnet or magnets and the control coils convert this 1006 extends across and makes contact with the north
Static flux into a time varying flux in a novel way. Both magnetic poles of the magnets 1002 and 1004 and another
arrangements use two Secondary coils, the Secondary coils 50 magnetizable bridging member 1008 makes contact with the
are placed in the region of the continuous flux path that South magnetic poles of the two permanent magnets 1002
would be occupied by an armature or rotor in the linear or and 1004. The members 1006 and 1008 extend slightly
rotary arrangements. The regions of the flux paths that beyond the opposite Sides of the respective permanent
perform work are the same in all cases. magnets 1002 and 1004 and a pair of spaced armature
In all cases the control coils can either be wired in Series 55 members 1010 and 1012 are positioned to move into and out
or parallel and the Secondary coils can be either wound in of engagement with the ends of the members 1006 and 1008.
Series or parallel. More than one Secondary coil or Secondary Coils 1014 and 1016 are mounted respectively on the
coils with multiple taps can be placed in the working regions members 1006 and 1008 in the space between the permanent
and further multiple flux paths can be utilized with one or magnets 1002 and 1004, and the armatures 1010 and 1012
more Secondary coils placed in each of the working regions. 60 are shown connected together by a rod 1018 which enables
This is made obvious by the disclosures of the linear and them to move backwards and forwards into engagement
rotary devices herein and based on the fact that the working with the respective members 1006 and 1008 when different
regions of the flux paths are identical. voltages are applied to the respective coils 1014 and 1016.
FIGS. 45X and 45A also show the paths of the static flux In FIGS. 47, the coils 1014 and 1016 are energized as shown
of the permanent magnet or magnets when no current is 65 with the coil 1014 having its north magnetic end to the left
flowing in the control coils. In the arrangement shown in and its South magnetic end to the right and the opposite is
FIG. 45X the flux from the single permanent magnet divides true of the coil 1016. In FIG. 48, the voltage applied to the
 US 6,246,561 B1
23 24
respective coils 1014 and 1016 is reversed so that the control coil positioned around the first path portion of the
polarity of the left end of coil 1014 is south and the polarity first pole piece, the Second control coil positioned around the
of the opposite end of the same coil 1014 is a north magnetic Second path portion of the first pole piece, the circuit means
pole. The reverse is true of the coil 1016. It is to be noted in connected to each of the first control coil and the Second
FIGS. 47 and 48 that the relationship of aiding and opposing control coil to alternatingly energize the first coil and the
is indicated on the figures to indicate the relationship when Second coil in a timed Sequential manner.
the coils are energized. For example, in FIG. 47 when the 2. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
coils are energized as shown the relationship is opposing for wherein the first control coil and the Second control coil are
the permanent magnet 1002 and is aiding with respect to the alternatingly energized in a permanent magnet magnetic flux
permanent magnet 1004. The reverse is true when the aiding manner.
voltage on the coils is reversed as shown in FIG. 48. By 3. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
properly timing the Voltage on the respective coils the wherein the first control coil and the Second control coil are
movement of the armature is controlled. The same principles alternatingly energized in a permanent magnet magnetic flux
can be applied to produce rotating movement as shown in oppoSIng manner.
FIG. 42. 15
4. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
further comprising a rotor member mounted on a shaft for
FIG. 49 shows another embodiment 1030 of the subject rotation therewith, the rotor member sized, shaped, and
invention using principles Similar to those described in positioned to extend Substantially from the first path portion
connection with FIGS. 47 and 48. The embodiment 1030 of the first pole piece to the first path portion of the Second
includes a plurality, three being shown, of Stationary mem pole piece during at least Some part of its rotation.
bers 1032, 1034 and 1036. The details of these members are 5. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 4,
better shown in FIG. 50 which shows the details of the wherein the rotor member is formed by at least one perma
member 1036. This member includes a pair of permanent nent magnet.
magnets 1038 and 1040, each of which has magnetizable 6. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
members mounted adjacent opposite Sides thereof as in the wherein the Second path portion of the first pole piece and
previous construction. The members 1042 and 1044 also 25 the Second path portion of the Second pole piece are posi
have coils 1046 and 1048, respectively, and the coils are tioned alongside the first path portion of the first pole piece
energized as described in connection with FIGS. 47 and 48 and the first path portion of the first pole piece.
to produce aiding and opposing magnetism. The construc 7. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
tion shown in FIG. 49 may have three stator portions as further comprising a first bypass extending from the first
shown or it may have more Stator portions as desired. The path portion of the first pole piece to the first path portion of
rotor 1050 is positioned in the space between the members the Second pole piece, one end of the first bypass positioned
1032, 1034 and 1036 and includes a permanent magnet adjacent the first path portion of the first pole piece and
portion part of which has its north magnetic pole on the between the permanent magnet and the first control coil.
Surface as shown and the other parts has its South magnetic 8. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 6,
pole in the same Surface as shown. The permanent magnets 35 further comprising a Second bypass extending from the
1038 and 1040 on the stators interact with the permanent Second path portion of the first pole piece to the Second path
magnets on the rotor to produce the rotating motion and is portion of the Second pole piece, one end of the Second
controlled by the energizing of the coils. bypass positioned adjacent the Second path portion of the
Other applications and advantages of the devices and first pole piece and between the permanent magnet and the
methods of the present invention exist and various modifi 40 Second control coil.
cations are possible, and therefore the present invention is 9. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
not intended to be limited to the Specific examples disclosed further comprising a plurality of armatures arranged to
herein. Accordingly, the Spirit and Scope of the invention are define a path of movement, wherein the Second path portion
to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims. of the first pole piece and the Second path portion of the
What is claimed is: 45 Second pole piece are positioned alongside the first path
1. A permanent magnet device, comprising a permanent portion of the first pole piece and the first path portion of the
magnet having north and South pole faces, a first pole piece, Second pole piece, and wherein all of Such pole piece path
a Second pole piece, a first control coil, a Second control coil, portions include an end face positioned adjacent the path of
and circuit means, the first pole piece positioned adjacent the movement defined by the plurality of armatures.
north pole face of the permanent magnet and including a first 50 10. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
path portion, a Second path portion and a third portion, the wherein the first control coil and the Second control coil are
first path portion extending beyond a perimeter of the north Simultaneously energized one in a permanent magnet mag
pole face in one direction and the Second path portion netic flux aiding manner and one in a permanent magnet
extending beyond the perimeter of the north pole face in magnetic flux opposing manner.
another direction to define first and Second flux paths for 55 11. The permanent magnet device as Set forth in claim 1,
magnetic flux emanating from the north pole face of the further comprising two shaft connected armatures position
permanent magnet, the first path portion of the first pole able adjacent the ends of the first and Second pole pieces,
piece connected to the Second path portion of the first pole wherein each of the armatures is formed by a permanent
piece by the third portion which extends across the north magnet.
pole face of the permanent magnet, the Second pole piece 60 12. The permanent magnet device of claim 1 further
positioned adjacent the South pole face and including a first comprising a first fixed armature extending between the first
path portion and a Second path portion, the first path portion path portion of the first pole piece to the first path portion of
extending beyond a perimeter of the South pole face and the Second pole piece and a Second fixed armature extending
substantially aligned with the first path portion of the first between the Second path portion on the first pole piece to the
pole piece, the Second path portion extending beyond the 65 Second path portion of the Second pole piece.
perimeter of the South pole face and Substantially aligned 13. The permanent magnet device of claim 12 where a
with the Second path portion of the first pole piece, the first first Secondary coil is wrapped around the first fixed arma
 US 6,246,561 B1
25 26
ture and a Second Secondary coil is wrapped around the (ii) energizing the Second control coil in a permanent
Second fixed armature. magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to
14. The permanent magnet device of claim 13 including couple with Substantially all magnetic flux of the
circuit means connected to the control coils to control the permanent magnet Such that Substantially no mag
energizing thereof to produce a varying flux in the armatures netic flux of the permanent magnet traverses the first
and to induce Voltage in the Secondary coils. path portion of the first pole piece when the Second
15. The permanent magnet device of claim 1 wherein control coil is So energized.
there are at least two permanent magnets each having north 19. A method for controlling the path of magnetic flux
and South pole faces, the first pole piece being positioned from a permanent magnet the method comprising the Steps
extending between the north pole faces of the permanent of:
magnets and the Second pole piece positioned extending (a) placing a first pole piece adjacent a first pole face of
between adjacent South pole faces of the permanent mag the permanent magnet So as to have at least first and
netS. Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter of
16. A method for controlling the path of magnetic flux the first pole face;
from a permanent magnet, the method comprising the Steps 15
(b) placing a second pole piece adjacent a second pole
of: face of the permanent magnet So as to include at least
(a) placing a first pole piece adjacent a first pole face of one portion which Substantially aligns with the first and
the permanent magnet So as to have at least first and Second path portions of the first pole piece;
Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter of (c) placing a first control coil along and around the first
the first pole face; path portion of the first pole piece;
(b) placing a second pole piece adjacent a second pole (d) placing a second control coil along and around the
face of the permanent magnet So as to include at least Second path portion of the first pole piece; and
one portion which Substantially aligns with the first and (e) alternatingly performing the following steps in a
Second path portions of the first pole piece; 25 repeated manner:
(c) placing a first control coil along and around the first (i) Simultaneously energizing the first control coil in a
path portion of the first pole piece; permanent magnet magnetic flux aiding manner and
(d) placing a second control coil along and around the the Second control coil in a permanent magnet flux
Second path portion of the first pole piece; opposing manner; and
(e) repeatedly energizing the first control coil in a per (ii) Simultaneously energizing the first control coil in a
manent magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So as to permanent magnet flux opposing manner and the
prevent magnetic flux of the permanent magnet from Second control coil in a permanent magnet magnetic
traversing the first path portion of the first pole piece; flux aiding manner.
and 20. A rotary motion device, comprising a rotor assembly
(f) repeatedly energizing the Second control coil in a 35 including a shaft which defines an axis of rotation of the
permanent magnet magnetic flux opposing manner So assembly, a rotor pole piece mounted for rotation with the
as to prevent magnetic flux of the permanent magnet shaft, the rotor pole piece including an outer ring portion
having at least two path portions extending inwardly from a
from traversing the Second path portion of the first pole periphery of the Outer ring portion;
piece. a Stator assembly including a permanent magnet having a
17. The method as set forth in claim 16 wherein the 40
energization of Steps (e) and (t) take place in a simultaneous generally ring-shaped configuration, a first pole face of
C.
the permanent magnet positioned adjacent the outer
18. A method for controlling the path of magnetic flux ring portion of the rotor pole piece, the Stator assembly
from a permanent magnet, the method comprising the Steps further comprising a Stator pole piece including an
of: 45 Outer ring portion positioned adjacent a Second pole
face of the permanent magnet and having a plurality of
(a) placing a first pole piece adjacent a first pole face of path portions extending inwardly from the periphery,
the permanent magnet So as to have at least first and each path portion further including a respective portion
Second path portions extending beyond a perimeter of which extends toward a plane defined by the first pole
the first pole face; 50 face of the permanent magnet and alignable with each
(b) placing a second pole piece adjacent a second pole of the rotor pole piece path portions at certain rotational
face of the permanent magnet So as to include at least positions of the rotor pole piece, each path portion
one portion which Substantially aligns with the first and including a control coil positioned therealong;
Second path portions of the first pole piece; and circuit means connected to each of the coils and
(c) placing a first control coil along and around the first 55 including a Source of electrical energy and Switch
path portion of the first pole piece; means for energizing respective ones of the control
(d) placing a second control coil along and around the coils in a predetermined timed Sequence based upon
Second path portion of the first pole piece; and rotation of the rotor assembly.
(e) alternatingly performing the following steps in a 21. A rotary motion device, comprising:
repeated manner: 60 a rotor assembly including a shaft which defines an axis
(i) energizing the first control coil in a permanent of rotation of the assembly, a pair of Spaced elongated
magnet magnetic flux aiding manner So as to couple rotor members mounted on the Shaft at Spaced locations
with Substantially all magnetic flux of the permanent thereon and angularly oriented with respect to each
magnet Such that Substantially no magnetic flux of other, each of the elongated rotor members formed of
the permanent magnet traverses the Second path 65 a magnetic material;
portion of the first pole piece when the first control a Stator assembly including a permanent magnet having
coil is So energized; and opposed first and Second pole faces, a first pole piece
 US 6,246,561 B1
27 28
positioned adjacent the first pole face and a Second pole that the Second path portion of the first pole piece is aligned
piece positioned adjacent the Second pole face, each with the Second path portion of the Second pole piece, at
pole piece including a respective first path portion least a portion of the ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor
extending beyond a perimeter of its adjacent pole face member positioned between the Second path portion of the
and having an arcuate shaped end portion, the first path first pole piece and the Second path portion of the Second
portion of the first pole piece aligned with the first path pole piece, at least one of the Second path portions of the first
portion of the Second pole piece, each pole piece further pole piece and the Second path portion of the Second pole
including a respective Second path portion extending piece having a Second control coil mounted on at least one
beyond the perimeter of its adjacent pole face in a of the pole pieces at a point intermediate the first permanent
direction opposite to that of the first path portions and magnet and the ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor
having an arcuate shaped end portion, the Second path member, the Second control coil connected to the circuit
portion of the first pole piece aligned with the Second means So as to be energized in a predetermined timed
path portion of the Second pole piece, at least one of the manner based upon rotation of the rotor assembly.
first path portions of the first pole piece and the first 25. The rotary motion device as set forth in claim 22,
path portion of the Second pole piece including a 15 wherein the Stator assembly further comprises a Second
control coil mounted on at least one of the pole pieces, permanent magnet, a third pole piece positioned adjacent a
at least one of the Second path portions of the first pole first pole face of the Second permanent magnet and a fourth
piece and the Second path portion of the Second pole pole piece positioned adjacent a Second pole face of the
piece including a control coil mounted on at least one Second permanent magnet, the third pole piece including at
of the pole pieces, least a first path portion extending beyond a perimeter of the
wherein the rotor assembly extends from end to end of the Second permanent magnet first pole face, the fourth pole
Stator assembly Such that the elongate members are piece including at least a first path portion extending beyond
aligned with the arcuate shaped end portions of the path a perimeter of the Second permanent magnet Second pole
portions of the pole pieces, face, the first path portion of the third pole face aligned with
and circuit means connected to each of the coils and 25 the first path portion of the fourth pole piece, at least a
including a Source of electrical energy and Switch portion of the ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor member
means for energizing respective ones of the control positioned between the first path portion of the third pole
coils in a predetermined timed Sequence based upon piece and the first path portion of the fourth pole piece, at
rotation of the rotor assembly. least one of the first path portions of the third pole piece and
22. A rotary motion device comprising: the first path portion of the fourth pole piece including a
third control coil mounted on at least one of the pole pieces
a rotor assembly including a shaft which defines an axis at a point intermediate the Second permanent magnet and the
of rotation of the assembly, a ring-shaped rotor member ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor member, the third pole
mounted for rotation with the shaft, the ring-shaped piece including a Second path portion Spaced from and
rotor member including a plurality of distinct circum 35 extending adjacent to the first path portion the fourth pole
ferential regions, piece including a Second path portion Spaced from and
a Stator assembly including a first permanent magnet, a extending adjacent to the first path portion thereof Such that
first pole piece positioned against a first pole face and the Second path portion of the third pole piece is aligned with
a Second pole piece positioned against a Second pole the Second path portion of the fourth pole piece, at least a
face, the first pole piece including at least a first path 40 portion of the ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor member
portion extending beyond a perimeter of the first pole positioned between the Second path portion of the third pole
face, the Second pole piece including at least a first path piece and the Second path portion of the fourth pole piece,
portion extending beyond a perimeter of the Second at least one of the Second path portions of the third pole piece
pole face, the first path portion of the first pole piece and the Second path portion of the fourth pole piece includ
aligned with the first path portion of the Second pole 45 ing a fourth control coil mounted on at least one of the pole
piece, at least a portion of the ring-shaped rotor mem pieces at a point intermediate the Second permanent magnet
ber positioned between the first path portion of the first and the ring-shaped permanent magnet rotor member,
pole piece and the first path portion of the Second pole wherein each of the third and fourth control coils are
piece, at least one of the first path portions of the first connected to the circuit means So as to be energized in a
pole piece and the first path portion of the Second pole 50 predetermined timed manner based upon rotation of the
piece including a first control coil positioned at a point rotor assembly.
intermediate the first permanent magnet and the ring 26. A device for producing rotary motion comprising:
shaped rotor member; a rotor assembly including a shaft which defines an axis
and circuit means connected to the first control coil and of rotation for the assembly, a ring-shaped rotor mem
including a Source of electrical energy and Switch 55 ber mounted for rotation with the shaft, the ring-shaped
means for energizing the first control coil in a prede rotor member having a plurality of distinct circumfer
termined timed manner based upon rotation of the rotor entially positioned regions extending around the axis, a
assembly. Stator assembly including a first permanent magnet, a
23. The rotary motion device as set forth in claim 22, first pole piece positioned against the first pole face of
wherein the ring-shaped rotor member is formed by a 60 the first pole piece and a Second pole piece positioned
permanent magnet having distinct circumferential regions of against a Second pole face of the first pole piece, the
opposite polarity. first pole piece including at least a first path portion
24. The rotary motion device as set forth in claim 23, extending beyond a perimeter of the first pole face, the
wherein the first pole piece includes a Second path portion Second pole piece including at least a first path portion
Spaced from and extending adjacent to the first path portion, 65 extending beyond the perimeter of the Second pole
the Second pole piece including a Second path portion Spaced face, the first path portion of the first pole piece aligned
from and extending adjacent to the first path portion Such with the first path portion of the Second pole piece, at
 US 6,246,561 B1
29 30
least a portion of the ring-shaped rotor member posi opposite sides of the rotor permanent magnet, a plurality of
tioned between the first path portion of the first pole Stator members each Stator member having at least one
piece and the first path portion of the Second pole piece, permanent magnet having a north magnetic pole adjacent
at least one of the first path portions of the first pole one side and a South magnetic pole adjacent to the opposite
piece and the first path portion of the Second pole piece Side, a pair of members positioned adjacent respective
including a first control coil mounted on at least one of opposite Sides of the Stator permanent magnet in position to
the pole pieces at a point intermediate the first perma extend to adjacent the rotor permanent magnet whereby a
nent magnet and the ring-shaped rotor member; and flux path is formed between the members and the stator and
circuit means connected to the first control coil and rotor permanent magnets, a coil mounted on each member of
including a Source of electrical energy and Switch the Stator and means for applying a Voltage of predetermined
means for energizing the first control coil in a prede polarity to each of Said coils to control the flux through a
termined timed manner based upon position of the rotor path between the permanent magnets and to control the
assembly during rotation of the rotor assembly. coupling force between the permanent magnets on the Stator
27. The device for producing rotary motion of claim 26 and the permanent magnets on the rotor.
wherein the circuit means includes means for timing the 15 32. A motion producing device comprising at least one
energizing of the first control coil includes means for adjust permanent magnet having a north pole opposite and Spaced
ing the timing thereof. from a South pole, a pair of Spaced Substantially parallel
28. The device for producing rotor motion of claim 26 members adjacent respectively the north and South poles of
including means to vary the flux generated in the first and the at least one permanent magnet and extending outwardly
Second pole pieces. to Substantially aligned opposite edges, a flux Supporting
29. A device for handling the flux between two separate member positioned adjacent the respective opposite edges of
permanent magnets each of which has a north magnetic pole each pair of parallel members, a coil on Selected ones of the
adjacent one Side face and the South magnetic pole adjacent parallel members, and a Source of electrical energy con
to the opposite Side face, the north and South Side pole faces nected to each of the coils for energizing the coils to change
respectively of both magnets being Substantially in 25 the flux in the parallel members and in the flux Supporting
alignment, a first member in Surface-to-Surface contact with members.
the north magnetic faces of the Spaced permanent magnets, 33. The motion producing device of claim 32 wherein
a Second member in Surface-to-Surface contact with the there are at least two Spaced permanent magnets extending
South magnetic faces of the Spaced permanent magnets, first between the parallel members.
and Second armatures each positioned adjacent opposite 34. The motion producing device of claim 32 wherein one
ends of the first and Second permanent magnets and adjacent of Said pair of parallel members is Subdivided into a plurality
to opposite ends of the Spaced members, a coil mounted on of Sidewardly extending portions extending to one of Said
each of the members in the space between the adjacent opposite Side edges, at least one of Said coils being posi
permanent magnets, and means for applying Voltages of tioned on at least one of Said Sidewardly extending portions.
predetermined polarities across the respective coils to 35 35. The motion producing device of claim 34 wherein
change the magnetic coupling between the permanent mag there are coils on a plurality of respective ones of the
nets and between the armatures. Sidewardly extending portions.
30. A device for producing rotational movement compris 36. The motion producing device of claim 32 wherein the
ing: permanent magnet and the parallel members are annular in
a rotor having a shaft rotatable about the axis thereof, a 40 shape.
member constructed of permanent magnets mounted on 37. The motion producing device of claim 32 including a
the shaft, Said member having circumferential portions by-pass member extending between the pair of Spaced
Some of which have a north magnetic pole and others Substantial parallel members adjacent one side of the per
a South magnetic pole adjacent to the same Side thereof, manent magnet.
the opposite Surface of the permanent magnet member 45 38. A permanent magnet device comprising at least two
having north magnetic poles opposite the South mag permanent magnets each having north and South pole faces,
netic poles and South magnetic poles opposite the north a first pole piece, a Second pole piece, a first control coil, a
magnetic poles, a Stator having a plurality of circum Second control coil and circuit means, the first pole piece
ferentially Spaced portions each of which includes at positioned adjacent the north pole faces of the at least two
least one permanent magnet and a pair of members 50 permanent magnets and including a first path portion, a
mounted adjacent opposite sides of the permanent Second path portion and a third path portion, the first path
magnets, the members being positioned adjacent to the portion extending beyond the perimeter of the north pole
periphery of the rotor permanent magnet member and faces and the Second path portion extending beyond the
means on the member adjacent each opposite side of perimeter of the north pole faces to define first and Second
the Stator permanent magnet for mounting a coil, and 55 flux paths for magnetic flux emitting from the north pole
means for energizing the coil on each Stator portion in faces of the at least two permanent magnets, the first path
Sequence to produce magnetic coupling force between portion of the first pole piece connected to the Second path
the Stator and the rotor in a direction to produce rotating portion of the first pole piece by a third portion which
motion of the rotor. extends across the north pole face of the at least two
31. A device including a rotating member and a Stationary 60 permanent magnets, the Second pole piece positioned adja
member, each having a permanent magnet portion posi cent to the South pole faces of the at least two permanent
tioned to produce magnetic coupling force therebetween in magnets and including a first path portion and a Second path
predetermined positions thereof, the rotor including a shaft portion, the first path portion extending beyond a perimeter
rotatable about its axis and the permanent magnet eXtending of the South pole faces and Substantially aligned with the first
around the Shaft and formed by a plurality of adjacent 65 path portion of the first pole piece, the Second path portion
portions of permanent magnet material whereby adjacent extending beyond the perimeter of the South pole faces and
portions have their north and South magnetic pole faces on Substantially aligned with the Second path portion of the first
 US 6,246,561 B1
31 32
pole piece, the first control coil positioned around the first ture and a Second Secondary coil is wrapped around the
path portion of the first pole piece, the Second control coil Second fixed armature.
positioned around the Second path portion of the first pole 41. The permanent magnet device of claim 40 including
piece, and the circuit means connected to each of the first circuit means connected to the control coils to control the
control coil and the Second control coil to alternatingly 5 energizing thereof to produce a varying flux in the armatures
energize the first coil and the Second coil in a timed and to induce Voltage in the Secondary coils.
Sequential manner.
39. The permanent magnet device of claim 38 further 42. The permanent magnet device of claim 38 wherein
comprising a first fixed armature extending between the first there are at least two permanent magnets each having north
path portion of the first pole piece to the first path portion of 10 and South pole faces, the first pole piece being positioned
the Second pole piece and a Second fixed armature extending extending between the north pole faces of the permanent
between the Second path portion of the first pole piece to the magnets and the Second pole piece positioned extending
Second path portion of the Second pole piece. between the South pole faces of the permanent magnets.
40. The permanent magnet device of claim 39 where a
first Secondary coil is wrapped around the first fixed arma