Linear Motor with Permanent Magnetic Self-Holding

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a linear motor design incorporating permanent magnets both in the stator and the movable rotor, allowing for stable magnetic self-holding in a neutral position without current. The device is specifically miniaturized for integration into optical systems such as endoscopes. The unique arrangement enables precise, fast, and repeatable position control, with high force relative to its small size, and can operate efficiently with low heat generation. The motor can have a central bore to allow optical elements, like lenses, to pass through and be positioned.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Focusing or adjusting lenses in video endoscopes or miniature optical systems.
• Nanopositioning in medical instruments and minimally invasive surgical tools.
• Precision movement in microelectronics assembly or inspection devices.
• Actuation in compact optical instruments for focus or zoom adjustments.
• Molecular biology or neurobiology instruments requiring fine mechanical movement in a small volume.
• Miniaturized robotics or actuator applications where linear displacement is needed in tight spaces.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows miniaturization suitable for use in instruments like endoscopes, down to a few millimeters in diameter.
• Provides stable, self-centering position without current thanks to permanent magnet configuration, improving position reliability and reducing control complexity.
• Enables direct and precise correlation between coil current and position, allowing for highly accurate and repeatable control without external sensors.
• Low power consumption leads to reduced heat generation, critical in sensitive instruments like endoscopes.
• Simple, symmetrical geometry and small component count facilitate easier and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly.
• Central axial bore permits integration of optical elements, maintaining unimpeded optical paths while enabling precise movement.
• Flexibility of design to suit either cylindrical or flat geometries, supporting a wide variety of device form factors.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The motor has a stator (1) comprising coils (15, 16) and axially magnetized permanent magnets (11, 12) that are enclosed by a magnetic guiding member (10) i.e. soft-magnetic tube. A rotor (2) is surrounded by the coils and movable parallel to the stator. The rotor has a gap or a bore in an axial direction and axially magnetized permanent magnets (21). The rotor has pole shoes (23, 24) corresponding to the coils, where magnetic flux of one of the magnets passes through the coils via the shoes. Each shoe is arranged in an inner side of the coils, where the rotor is made from solid material. An independent claim is also included for a method for operating a linear motor.