阅读说明：本技术 磁性线性驱动装置和系统 (Magnetic linear drive device and system ) 是由 克拉克·B·佛斯特 约翰·科尔 约翰·李·威柏三世 于 2016-06-16 设计创作，主要内容包括：具有螺旋磁性阵列的驱动发生器。此外,联接部分联接到驱动发生器并且被配置为联接到载具。驱动构件被配置为至少部分地位于至少一个驱动发生器内,由此驱动构件磁性地联接到所述至少一个驱动体。此外,原动机联接到驱动构件并被配置为使驱动构件旋转,由此当驱动构件的一部分位于至少一个驱动发生器内时,原动机使得至少一个驱动发生器相对于驱动构件运动。(A drive generator having a helical magnetic array. Further, the coupling portion is coupled to the drive generator and configured to be coupled to the vehicle. The drive member is configured to be at least partially located within the at least one drive generator, whereby the drive member is magnetically coupled to the at least one drive body. Further, a prime mover is coupled to the drive member and configured to rotate the drive member, whereby when a portion of the drive member is located within the at least one drive generator, the prime mover causes the at least one drive generator to move relative to the drive member.)

1. A drive system, comprising:

at least one drive generator comprising a helical magnetic array;

a coupling portion coupled to the at least one drive generator and configured to be coupled to a vehicle;

a drive member configured to be at least partially housed within the at least one drive generator, whereby the drive member is magnetically coupled to the at least one drive generator; and

a prime mover coupled to the drive member and configured to rotate the drive member, whereby the prime mover causes the at least one drive generator to move relative to the drive member when at least a portion of the drive member is received within the at least one drive generator.

2. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the at least one drive generator comprises at least one drive body forming an accommodation space configured to enable the drive member to pass through the accommodation space.

3. The drive system of claim 2, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources mounted to the at least one drive body.

4. The drive system of claim 3, wherein the at least one drive body has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to the inner surface.

5. The drive system of claim 4, wherein the plurality of magnetic sources are arranged to form a helix with respect to the at least one drive body.

6. The drive system as recited in claim 3, wherein the at least one drive body has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to the outer surface and arranged to form a helix with respect to the at least one drive body.

7. The drive system as recited in claim 2, wherein the at least one drive body has a plurality of magnetic sources mounted therein.

8. The drive system of claim 2, wherein the at least one drive body is formed with a slot extending a length of the at least one drive body.

9. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources configured to generate a helical magnetic flux.

10. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the drive member is a substantially cylindrical tube configured to rotate within the at least one drive generator.

11. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the drive member is formed from an aluminum alloy.

12. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the drive member has a longitudinally extending length that is substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the at least one drive generator, and the drive member is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis.

13. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the helical magnetic array is in the form of a helical structure formed at an angle of between 15 degrees and 75 degrees relative to a direction of travel of the at least one drive generator.

14. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources arranged in a double helix such that the plurality of magnetic sources are arranged in two rows.

15. The drive system of claim 14, wherein the two rows have opposite polarities from each other.

16. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources arranged in a quadruple helix such that the plurality of magnetic sources are arranged in four rows.

17. The drive system of claim 16, wherein the quadruple helix is formed by two double helix arrays.

18. The drive system of claim 16, wherein adjacent rows of the plurality of magnetic sources arranged in four rows have opposite polarities.

19. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the at least one drive generator is formed of two parts.

20. The drive system of claim 19, wherein the two portions are two substantially equal halves.

21. A drive generator configured to provide power to a vehicle, the drive generator comprising:

a helical magnetic array configured to emit a helical magnetic flux to a drive member, the drive member configured to be received within the helical magnetic array;

a coupling portion configured to couple to the vehicle;

wherein upon rotation of the drive member or the helical magnetic array, the helical magnetic array is configured to traverse the drive member based on the direction and speed of the rotation.

22. The drive generator of claim 21, further comprising at least one drive body having an inner surface and an outer surface, and configured to receive the drive member within the inner surface.

23. The drive generator of claim 22, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources arranged to form a helix with respect to the at least one driver body and coupled to the inner surface.

24. The drive generator of claim 22, wherein the at least one drive body has a slot formed therein and the slot extends the length of the drive body.

25. The drive generator of claim 21, wherein the drive member is a substantially cylindrical tube configured to rotate within the helical magnetic array.

26. The drive generator of claim 21, wherein the drive member is formed from an aluminum alloy.

27. The drive generator of claim 21, wherein the helical magnetic array is in the form of a helical structure formed at an angle between 15 degrees and 75 degrees relative to a direction of travel of the drive body.

28. The drive generator of claim 21, wherein the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources arranged in a double helix such that the plurality of magnetic sources are arranged in two rows.

29. The drive generator of claim 28, wherein the two rows have opposite polarities from each other.

30. The drive generator of claim 28, wherein the plurality of magnetic sources are arranged in a quadruple helix and the inner surface has four rows of the plurality of magnetic sources helically arranged thereon.

31. The drive generator of claim 30, wherein the quadruple helix is formed by two double helix arrays.

32. The drive generator of claim 31, wherein adjacent rows of the four rows of the plurality of magnetic sources have opposite polarities.

33. The drive generator of claim 21, further comprising a drive body, wherein the drive body is formed of two portions.

34. The drive generator of claim 33, wherein the two portions are two substantially equal halves.

35. The drive generator of claim 34, wherein the two substantially equal halves are movably coupled to each other to allow a gap formed between the inner surface of the drive body and the drive member to vary.

36. A drive system, comprising:

a drive generator comprising at least one drive body comprising a helical magnetic array;

a coupling portion coupled to the at least one drive body and the carrier;

a drive member configured to fit within the at least one drive body; and

a prime mover coupled to the at least one drive body and configured to rotate the at least one drive body, whereby the prime mover causes the at least one drive body to move relative to the drive member when a portion of the drive member is located within the at least one drive body.

37. The drive system of claim 36, wherein the at least one drive body is formed with a slot extending a length of the drive body.

38. The drive system of claim 36, wherein the drive member is a substantially cylindrical tube configured to rotate within the drive body.

39. The drive system of claim 36, wherein the drive member is formed from an aluminum alloy.

40. The drive system as recited in claim 36, wherein the drive member has a length extending longitudinally that is substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the drive body.

Technical Field

The subject matter of the present invention relates to a linear drive for linear transport.

Background

The linear drive system is typically implemented using a ball screw or a linear motor with a worm gear, a linear induction motor, or a linear synchronous motor. These linear drive systems may be implemented in industrial, commercial or private environments. These systems require power, which typically rotates in one direction, while the drive is in a different direction. These systems may be applied to assembly lines, conveyors, or passenger conveying systems.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present technology will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a building having an exemplary drive system disposed therein;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an exemplary drive system according to the present invention;

fig. 3 is an isometric view of an exemplary drive system coupled to a vehicle, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the drive system of FIG. 2 taken along line A-A;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the system shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the system shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the system shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the drive system of FIG. 4A taken along line B-B;

FIG. 6 is a partially exploded isometric view of an exemplary drive system having a two-piece drive body according to the present invention; and

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a second exemplary drive system according to the present invention; and

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a helical magnetic array propulsion system.

Detailed Description

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Furthermore, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. Numerous specific details are set forth herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the relevant features described in connection therewith. Moreover, such descriptions are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

Several definitions will now be presented that apply throughout this document. The term "substantially" is defined as substantially conforming to a particular size, shape or other concept that may be substantially modified, and therefore the components need not be exact. For example, substantially cylindrical means that the object resembles a cylinder, but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder. "drive force" refers to the force required to accelerate, maintain motion, or decelerate one object relative to another. As used herein, "driving force" refers to a force generally aligned with a primary direction of travel that is not affected by mechanical contact between two objects. A "drive generator" is a device configured to generate magnetic waves that interact with a driving member to drive a movable object relative to a stationary object. As used herein, a drive generator may also be referred to as a drive body.

Another term used herein is "guide rail". A guide rail is a device or structure that provides a path along which a driven member, such as a car, vehicle, ejector component, projectile, or truck, may move. The guide rail may be formed by one or more drive members or may be independent of the drive members. A driven member refers to a device configured to travel along a guide rail. The driven member may be at least partially enclosed, completely enclosed, or have only one such surface: an object or person may be placed on the surface. The driven member may be coupled to a bogie, which in turn is coupled to the guide rail. The bogie may be an integral part of the car or may be a separate part connectable to the car. As used herein, a bogie need not include wheels, but may be configured to engage a rail. The driven member may be a car or a vehicle. The car or vehicle may be configured to transport cargo, passengers, or other items.

Another term used herein is "coupled". Coupling may refer to the linking or connection of two objects. The coupling may be direct or indirect. Indirect coupling includes connecting two objects through one or more intermediate objects. Coupling may also refer to electrical or mechanical connection. The coupling may also include a magnetic link without physical contact.

Another term used herein is "magnetic source". The magnetic source is any material that naturally produces a magnetic field or can be induced to produce a magnetic field. For example, the magnetic source may include a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, a superconductor, and the like.

A drive generator is configured to provide power to a driven member. In at least one embodiment, the drive generator comprises a helical magnetic array. The helical magnetic array may be configured to emit a helical magnetic flux towards the drive member. The drive member may be configured to be received within the helical magnetic array. The drive member may be configured to be partially housed within the helical magnetic array. Further, the helical magnetic array may be configured to traverse the drive member, or the drive member may traverse the helical magnetic array. In at least one embodiment, the driven member may be configured to traverse one or more drive members that collectively form the guide track. The track may be configured such that the driven member follows the path of the track.

The drive generator may further include a coupling portion configured to be coupled to the driven member. Upon rotation of the drive member or the helical magnetic array, the helical magnetic array is configured to traverse the drive member based on the direction and speed of rotation. As used herein, traversing does not refer to which component or element is moving, but rather one component or element is moving relative to another component or element, and thus one component is considered to traverse another component. In at least one embodiment, the helical magnetic array can be configured to rotate. The coupling portion may be configured to allow rotation while providing substantial rigidity and structure to enable the driven member to traverse the driving member.

Furthermore, the invention comprises a system comprising at least one drive generator having one or more of the features described in connection with the drive generator. The system may also include a coupling portion if the coupling portion is not part of the drive generator. Further, the system may include more than one drive generator. Further, the system may include a drive member and a prime mover. The drive member is configured to be at least partially housed within the at least one drive generator. In other embodiments, the helical magnetic array may be configured to fit within the drive member. The helical magnetic array is configured to emit a helical magnetic flux in the direction of the drive member.

In at least one embodiment, the drive generator can be configured to provide power to the driven member. The drive generator may comprise a helical magnetic array. In at least one embodiment, the drive generator includes at least one drive body having an inner surface and an outer surface. The helical magnetic array is configured to receive a drive member. In at least one embodiment, the helical magnetic array comprises a plurality of magnetic sources arranged to form a helical structure. When the drive body is present, the helical structure is formed relative to the drive body. In one embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to an inner surface of the drive body. In another embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to an outer surface of the drive body. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources may be located within the drive body. When a plurality of magnetic sources are located within the drive body, recesses may be formed within the drive body to receive the plurality of magnetic sources. In yet another embodiment, the drive body may be formed around a plurality of magnetic sources. The coupling portion can be coupled to the drive body and the driven member. In another embodiment, the coupling portion may be coupled to the driving member and the driven member.

The present disclosure also describes a drive system having a drive generator that includes at least one drive body having an inner surface and an outer surface. The at least one drive body can be in the form of a hollow member. In one embodiment, the hollow member may be a cylinder. A plurality of magnetic sources are arranged to form a helical structure relative to the drive body. In at least one embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to the inner surface. In another embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources are coupled to the outer surface. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of magnetic sources may be located within the drive body. The coupling portion can be coupled to the at least one drive body and the driven member. The drive member is configured to be at least partially located within the at least one drive body. The drive member is magnetically coupled to the at least one drive body when the drive member is at least partially within the at least one drive body. The prime mover may be coupled to the drive member and configured to rotate the drive member, thereby causing the at least one drive body to move relative to the drive member when a portion of the drive member is located within the at least one drive body. In another embodiment, a prime mover can be coupled to the at least one drive body and configured to rotate the drive body to thereby move the at least one drive member relative to the drive body. In other embodiments, both the drive body and the drive member can be configured to be rotatable. In at least one embodiment, the drive member is configured to be rotatable but fixed to maintain a general orientation relative to another structure or the ground. In other embodiments, multiple magnetic sources may be coupled to the drive member rather than the drive body. Further, the orientation of the drive member relative to the drive body can be such that the drive body is located within the drive member.

Although the present invention is shown as a drive system configured to apply a vertical drive force, the present invention may be implemented to apply a horizontal drive force, or any one of a vertical or horizontal drive force, or any combination thereof. The coupling portion enables the drive body to change position to accommodate a transition from a vertical drive force to a horizontal drive force, and vice versa, or to allow movement at any angle relative to vertical.

Fig. 1 shows a drive system 100 implemented within a building 200. The building 200 may have at least one shaft 202 formed therein. The drive system 100 may be configured to be disposed within a shaft 202 and to provide power to one or more driven members (also referred to herein as vehicles) 118 within the shaft 202 to transition the driven members 118 between two or more building levels 204.

The drive system 100 can have a drive generator 102, the drive generator 102 having at least one drive body 104. The drive body 104 can have a plurality of magnetic sources (as shown in fig. 2) to engage with the drive member 120. The drive body 104 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the drive member 120. The drive member 120 can be configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis 121 to apply a motive force on the drive body 104 to move the driven member 118. The drive body 104 can be coupled to the carrier by one or more coupling portions 116.

The drive system 100 may have more than one driven member 118 disposed within the shaft 202. For example, as shown, there are two driven members 118. The drive system 100 can have two driven members 118, each driven member 118 having one or more drive bodies 104. When there is more than one driven member 118, each respective driven member 118 may be configured to simultaneously or independently service different groupings of building floors 204. In one embodiment, the upper driven member 118 may be restricted from moving to a floor served by the lower driven member 118. In other embodiments, the upper driven member 118 and the lower driven member 118 may serve the same floor and may form storage areas at the top and bottom of the hoistway. In alternative embodiments, the shaft may allow horizontal movement as well as vertical movement. For example, a floor may be configured to house a mechanical switch to enable movement of the vehicle in horizontal as well as vertical directions. This may include forming a horizontal accommodation space in the building. In at least one embodiment, the one or more drive members 120 and corresponding drive bodies 104 can be configured to be rotatable to allow horizontal movement. In other configurations, the vehicle may be configured to cooperate with additional mechanical structures that provide horizontal motion. In at least one embodiment, the present techniques may be configured for horizontal transport. When configured for horizontal transport, the described techniques are applicable in addition to the different directions of motion. Horizontal transport may be implemented for assembly lines, ejectors, and other mechanisms. Furthermore, as noted herein, this technique may be implemented in the presence of both horizontal and vertical motion components. This may be achieved by having an angled portion that allows both horizontal and vertical movement relative to the floor or ground. In other embodiments, the technique may include a mixture of horizontal, vertical, and angular components.

The drive system 100 may have a plurality of drive members 120 of different lengths. As can be appreciated in fig. 1, the drive system 100 has an upper driven member 118, the upper driven member 118 being disposed within a shaft 202 and configured to service a set of upper building levels 204. The drive system 100 also has a lower driven member 118, the lower driven member 118 being disposed within the shaft 202 and configured to service one or more lower building levels 204. The lower driven member 118 has a single drive member 120, the drive member 120 extending across the multi-story building level 204. In other embodiments, the present techniques may be implemented such that the vehicle is able to traverse some floors faster than others, which is commonly referred to as express mode. In this configuration, certain floors may be skipped. In such a configuration, additional drive generators and drive members operating only in a fast configuration may be implemented to allow for higher speeds.

Fig. 2 shows a drive system 100 configured to apply a driving force. The drive system 100 includes a drive generator 102 having a helical magnetic array 113. The helical magnetic array may include a plurality of magnetic sources 112. In at least one embodiment, the helical magnetic array can be coupled to or part of the at least one drive body 104. The at least one drive body 104 can be in the form of a hollow member 106. In one embodiment, the hollow member 106 is a cylindrical member. In other embodiments, the interior of the hollow member 106 may be shaped to accommodate a generally cylindrical object, while the exterior of the hollow member 106 may be another shape, such as a square, triangle, or other polygon in cross-section.

The at least one drive body 104 can have an inner surface 108 and an outer surface 110. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 can be helically arranged relative to the at least one drive body 104 and coupled to the inner surface 108. In other embodiments, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 can be formed in the drive body 104 or mounted in a recess formed on the drive body 104. In still other embodiments, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 can be coupled to an exterior of the drive body 104. In other embodiments, the drive body 104 can be removed and the helical magnetic array 113 can be coupled to the coupling portion 116. In at least one embodiment, the helical magnetic array 113 may include a plurality of magnetic sources 112. The embodiments presented herein relate to a plurality of magnetic sources 112 coupled to the inner surface 108 of the drive body 104, but any of the above-described configurations can be implemented. Fig. 4A-4D below also provide cross-sectional views of some embodiments.

The plurality of magnetic sources 112 can form a helical structure 114, the helical structure 114 disposed about the inner surface 108 of the drive body 104. The plurality of magnetic sources 112 may be permanent magnets or electromagnets, or a combination of both. In at least one embodiment, the helical structure 114 is a double helix structure having two rows of magnetic sources 112 helically arranged on the inner surface 108. In other embodiments, the helical structure 114 is a quadruple helix with four rows of magnetic sources arranged helically around the inner surface 108. In other cases, the helical structure 114 may be any number of multiples of two arranged helically along the length 125 of the inner surface 108. The longitudinally extending length 125 may be substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the at least one drive generator 102, and the drive member 104 is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis 121. Optionally, the drive member 104 has a longitudinally extending length 125, the length 125 being substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the drive body 104.

The drive body 104 can have a coupling portion 116, the coupling portion 116 coupled to the hollow member 106 and a driven member 118 (shown in fig. 3). The coupling portion 116 can be a flange or other member disposed between the drive body 104 and the driven member 118. The coupling portion 116 can also pivotably couple the drive body 104 and the driven member 118 depending on the arrangement of the drive system 100. The pivotal coupling portion 116 can allow the drive body 104 to change orientation relative to the driven member 118, thereby changing the orientation of the driving force and the direction of travel. In other embodiments, the coupling portion 116 may be fixed and non-pivotable. Further, the coupling portion may be fixed in the direction of travel, but compliant in other directions. As noted above, the coupling portion can be configured to allow rotation of the drive body 104 or the helical magnetic array 113, wherein the drive body 104 is absent.

The drive system 100 further includes a drive member 120, the drive member 120 configured to be at least partially within the at least one drive body 104 when the drive member 120 is magnetically coupled to the at least one drive body 104. The drive member 120 can be a generally cylindrical tube configured to rotate within the drive body 104. The drive member 120 may also be a substantially solid, generally cylindrical element. In at least one embodiment, the drive member 120 is a generally cylindrical aluminum alloy tube.

Rotation of the drive member 120 housed within the drive body induces magnetic flux between the plurality of magnetic sources 112 and the drive member 120, and the induced magnetic flux can generate a driving force that pushes the drive body 104 along the length 126 of the drive member 120. The drive member 120 may rotate about a longitudinal axis 121. In at least one embodiment, all drive members are configured to rotate about the same longitudinal axis 121. Rotation of the drive member 120 in a clockwise direction may produce travel in a first direction and rotation of the drive member 120 in a counterclockwise direction may produce travel in a second direction opposite the first direction. The direction of travel caused by the rotation in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction is determined by the angle β of the helix 114 relative to the length 126 of the drive member 120. (as shown in fig. 5). The direction of travel caused by the driving force may be changed, reversed or modified by adjusting the rotation of the driving member 120. The driving force may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the rotational speed of the driving member 120. Faster rotation of the driving member 120 may result in a greater driving force to propel the driven member 118 at a higher rate. Reversing the direction of rotation of the drive member 120 can reverse the direction of travel of the drive body 104. Further, slowing or reversing the rotation of the driving member 120 may serve to brake or reduce the speed of the driven member 118 during travel. In other cases, the ability to move in the opposite direction may be used to generate energy. For example, in an elevator embodiment, the drive member 120 would not need to be powered to lower it. Instead, power will be easily generated when the driving member 120 descends. In addition, the ability to operate in either direction can be used to generate power.

The drive system 100 may also include a prime mover 122 configured to rotate the drive member 120. The prime mover 122 may be a servo motor coupled with the drive member 120 and configured to impart rotation. In other embodiments, the prime mover 122 may be a gear arrangement, a turbine arrangement, a belt arrangement, a magnetic arrangement, or any other method for imparting motion on the drive member 120. The prime mover 122 and the prime mover mount 128 may be disposed at one end of the drive member 120. The mounting brackets 130 are configured to receive opposite ends of the drive member 120. The prime mover 122, the prime mover mount 128, and the mounting bracket 130 can each be shaped to be received within the drive body 104. In other embodiments, the prime mover 122 may be connected to the drive member 120 by one or more components such that the prime mover 122 is offset from the drive member 120.

The drive body 104 can have a slot 124, the slot 124 being formed in the drive body 104 and extending the length of the hollow member 106. The slot 124 can receive a portion of the prime mover mount 128 and/or the mounting bracket 130 such that the drive body 104 can pass over at least one end of the drive member 120. The slots 124 enable the drive body 104 to pass beyond the drive member 120. The slot 124 also enables a drive mechanism to be provided that couples the prime mover 122 to the drive member 120 when the prime mover 122 is offset relative to the drive member.

Fig. 3 illustrates a drive system 100, the drive system 100 configured to impart motion on a drive body 104 coupled to a driven member 118. The ratio of the drive system 100 may be as shown or in a typical configuration, the ratio of the drive system 100 being the ratio of the drive system 100 relative to the carrier 118. For example, the drive system is shown to explain the components of the drive system rather than showing the proportions of the components relative to each other and relative to the vehicle 118.

The driven member 118 can have more than one drive body 104 coupled thereto. Although the illustrated embodiment shows two drive bodies 104, the driven member 118 can have one, three, or any number of drive bodies coupled thereto. The driven member 118 can have four drive bodies, two of which are disposed on opposite sides. A slot 124 formed along the length of the drive body 104 enables the drive member 120 to be received within the drive body 104 when the drive system 100 imparts motion to the driven member 118. The slots 124 enable one drive member 120 to exit the drive body 104 while an adjacent drive member 120 can be received in the drive body 104 as the driven member 118 travels.

In the vertical displacement arrangement, the vehicle 118 can be an elevator car or transport container having one or more drive bodies 104 coupled thereto. Each drive body 104 can receive at least a portion of a drive member 120. The rail may be formed by a plurality of drive members 120 along which the carrier 118 may travel. Each drive member 120 of the track may have a respective prime mover 122 and may be independently rotatable relative to adjacent drive members 120. In other embodiments, one prime mover 122 may be configured to drive more than one drive member 120. In embodiments where more than one drive member 120 is coupled to a single prime mover 122, the transmission may be implemented such that the drive members 120 are capable of rotating independently of any other drive member to which they are coupled.

The drive member 120 rotates as the carrier 118 and drive body traverse portions of the guide rail, but remains stationary when the carrier does not traverse adjacent portions of the guide rail. A rail with multiple drive members 120 may allow for extended displacement and maintain energy efficiency by rotating only adjacent drive members 120 while preventing rotation of the extended length 126 drive members 120. In the vertical displacement arrangement, the drive system 100 may be operated in reverse. The vehicle 118 may be displaced downward under the influence of gravity, thereby rotating the drive member 120 through a magnetic coupling to cause the prime mover 122 to generate electricity. As shown, the drive member 120 is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis 121.

The rail formed by the plurality of drive members 120 may allow more than one carrier 118 to traverse the same rail independently of the other carriers 118. Two or more vehicles 118 or elevator cars may be disposed within a single elevator shaft and configured to traverse guide rails. In one embodiment, the vehicles 118 cannot pass each other, but one vehicle 118 may traverse a portion of the rail while the other vehicle traverses a different portion of the rail.

In at least one embodiment, the vehicle 118 is an elevator car configured to be received within an elevator shaft having guide rails disposed along a length of the shaft. Two or more elevator cars may be disposed within a single elevator shaft. The first vehicle 118 may be configured to serve a first set of floors (e.g., floor 1-floor 20) and the second vehicle 118 may be configured to serve a second set of floors (e.g., floor 21-floor 40). Multiple vehicles within the same elevator shaft may be beneficial in increasing capacity and reducing the floor space of the elevator. When arranged in this configuration, one or more vehicles are configured to provide quick service to floor 21, or there is an internal connection between floor 20 and floor 21.

The drive system 100 may independently rotate the necessary drive members 120 to drive the first carrier, the second carrier, or both. Independent rotation of the individual drive members 120 may enable the first and second vehicles to move independently of each other in different directions.

Fig. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the drive body 104 and the drive member 120 received therein. The drive member 120 can be substantially housed within the drive body 104. Further, a helical magnetic array 113 is shown and configured to magnetically engage the plurality of magnetic sources 112, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 disposed on the inner surface 108 of the drive body 104. The plurality of magnetic sources 112 can be arranged in a quadruple helix configuration that provides four rows of magnetic sources that extend the length of the inner surface 108 of the drive body 104. The four rows of magnetic sources may have two rows of magnetic sources of a first polarity and two rows of magnetic sources of a second polarity, the four rows of magnetic sources being alternately arranged around the inner surface 108. As can be appreciated in fig. 4A, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 has two positive polarity magnetic sources and two negative polarity magnetic sources alternately disposed about the inner surface 108.

Rotation of the drive member 120 relative to the drive body 104 can induce a magnetic flux 132 between the plurality of magnetic sources 112 and the drive member 120. The magnetic flux 132 causes the driving body 104 to move relative to the driving member 120 by the driving force. The drive member 120 may be a substantially cylindrical tube. In at least one embodiment, the drive member 120 is formed from an aluminum alloy.

The plurality of magnetic sources 112 can be coupled to the inner surface 108 of the drive body 104 or can be flush mounted within the inner surface 108 of the drive body. (as shown in fig. 4B). The drive body 104 can be any shape and has a hollow member 106, the hollow member 106 being shaped to receive a correspondingly shaped drive member 120. The drive body can be square, rectangular, or any polygonal shape, and has a hollow member 106, the hollow member 106 having a shape corresponding to a drive member 120, the drive member 120 configured to be received within the hollow member 106.

The hollow member 106 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the drive member 120. The hollow member 106 may be square, rectangular, or any polygon configured to receive the drive member 120. Alternatively, the hollow member 106 may be any polygon that is independent of the shape of the drive member 120 and has a flange disposed between the plurality of magnetic sources 112 and the inner surface 108 of the hollow member 106. The flange may arrange the plurality of magnetic sources 112 to correspond to the shape of the drive member 120.

In at least one embodiment, the hollow member 106 has a generally rectangular shaped inner surface 108 and is configured to receive a generally cylindrical drive member 120. Regardless of the space of the hollow member 106, the flange can couple the plurality of magnetic sources 112 in a helical arrangement.

Fig. 4B is a cross-section similar to that shown in fig. 4A. Fig. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the drive body 104 and the drive member 120 received therein. A plurality of magnetic sources 112 are disposed within the drive member 120. The plurality of magnetic sources 112 may be arranged in any orientation desired to produce a helical magnetic flux.

Fig. 4C is a cross-section similar to that shown in fig. 4A. Fig. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the drive body 104 and the drive member 120 received therein. A plurality of magnetic sources 112 are disposed on the outer surface 110.

Fig. 4D is a cross-section similar to that shown in fig. 4A. Fig. 4D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the helical magnetic array 113 without the drive body 104. In this configuration, the helical magnetic array 113 is arranged such that the air flow provided to the helical magnetic array 113 and the drive member 120 is increased. In other embodiments, the drive body 104 can be perforated such that the air flow provided to the helical magnetic array 113 and the drive member is increased.

Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the inner surface 108 of the hollow member 106. A plurality of magnetic sources 112 may be helically arranged around the inner surface 108 of the hollow member 106. The helical arrangement may be at an angle β relative to the longitudinal axis of the hollow member 106. The helical arrangement may be formed at any angle β, but is preferably between 15 and 75 degrees. The helical arrangement generates magnetic flux between the plurality of magnetic sources 112 and the drive member 120, thereby exerting a motive force on the drive body. As the angle β approaches zero (0) degrees, the power on the drive body also approaches zero, such that when the angle β is zero (0) degrees, the power on the drive body is zero.

The drive system 100 (shown in fig. 3) can create an electromagnetic flux within at least a portion of the hollow member 106 when the drive body 104 moves relative to the drive member 120. The electromagnetic flux can depend on an angle (β) between a direction of rotation of the at least one drive body 104 relative to the at least one drive member 120 and an axis 138 of the plurality of magnetic sources 112 of the drive body 104. Increasing/decreasing the rotational speed of the drive member 120 may increase/decreaseVector V_{Travel of}And reversing the rotational direction of the driving member 120 may generate the same V as the original V_{Travel of}Opposite vector V_{Travel of}。

As shown in fig. 5, a plurality of magnetic sources 112 are shown relative to the drive body 104. As shown, the plurality of magnetic sources 112 are at a velocity (V) along the direction of travel_{Travel of}) And (6) moving. Normal velocity (V) of magnetic source 112_N) Can be calculated as V_N＝sin(β)*V_{Travel of}Where β is the angle formed between the direction of travel and the axis 138 of the helix 114. For a given configuration of magnetic source 112, a normal velocity constant K can be derived_FNAnd peak velocity V_{Peak value}. Once K is known_FNAnd V_{Peak value}The normal force (F) can be determined by the following formula_N)：F_N＝K_FN*(V_N*V_{Peak value})/(V_N^2+V_{Peak value}2). Once the normal force (F) is calculated_N) The following formula can be used to determine the drag force (F)_D)：F_D＝sin(β)*F_N. Under some typical operating conditions, the value of angle β is small, so F_DIs F_NA small component of (a). Also under some typical operating conditions, V_NIs much less than V_{Peak value}So FN is approximately K_FN*V_N，F_DIs approximated as sin (beta) K_FN*V_{Travel of}. Therefore, it can be understood that the low angle of attack (β) increases the Lift-to-drag ratio.

The helical structure 114 may have a clockwise orientation or a counterclockwise orientation, determining the direction of the drive force induced by the rotation of the drive member 120 and the direction of the resulting motion. When the driving member 120 rotates clockwise, the helical structure 114 having the clockwise orientation may apply a driving force in a first direction, and when the driving member 120 rotates counterclockwise, the helical structure 114 having the clockwise orientation may apply a driving force in a second direction opposite to the first direction. When the driving member 120 rotates clockwise, the helical structure 114 having the counterclockwise orientation may apply a driving force in the second direction, and when the driving member 120 rotates counterclockwise, the helical structure 114 having the counterclockwise orientation may apply a driving force in the first direction opposite to the first direction.

Fig. 6 illustrates a drive system 100 having a drive body 104, the drive body 104 having two portions. As described in the above figures, the two portions 134 and 136 have substantially the same size and are approximately half of the driving body 104. In other embodiments, the two portions 134 and 136 may be different sizes. For example, one of the two portions can be sized such that one of the two portions is approximately one-quarter of the entire drive body 104 and the other is approximately three-quarters of the entire drive body 104. The drive body 104 can also be described as two split nuts: a first split nut 134 and a second split nut 136. The first and second split nuts 134, 136 may be connected to each other to form the hollow member 106. In some cases, the first split nut 134 and the second split nut 136 may be substantially equal to form two substantially equal halves.

Each of the first and second split nuts 134, 136 may have an inner surface 108 and a plurality of magnetic sources 112 coupled to the inner surface 108. The plurality of magnetic sources 112 may be disposed in a helical configuration 114 relative to the inner surfaces of the assembled first and second split nuts 134, 136.

The first and second split nuts 134, 146 may be assembled to collectively receive the drive member 120 within the hollow member 106. The first and second split nuts 134, 136 can move inwardly and outwardly relative to the drive member 120 to engage or disengage the magnetic coupling with the drive member, with a gap being formed between the first and second split nuts 134, 136 as they move outwardly (away from each other). The inward and outward movement may be achieved by a biased coupling member, thereby enabling the first and second split nuts 134, 136 to be displaced relative to each other. The biasing element may be a spring, a linear actuator, or other similar biasable element. The first and second split nuts 134, 136 may be coupled together by a hinge arrangement that enables the first and second split nuts 134, 136 to pivot relative to the drive member 120 in a clamshell configuration. In other embodiments, the split nuts may have extendable pins to displace adjacent split nuts to disengage the magnetic coupling with the drive member 120.

As can be appreciated in fig. 6, the drive system 100 can have two drive bodies 104, wherein one drive body 104 includes first and second split nuts 134, 136 having a clockwise magnetic helix orientation and the second drive body 104 includes first and second split nuts 136 having a counterclockwise magnetic helix orientation. The drive body 104 is selectively engageable with the drive member 120 to provide rapid reversal of the carrier 118 or other driven member. The drive member 120 can maintain a constant rotation and the first or second drive body can engage, thereby stopping and/or reversing the direction of travel of the carrier.

Fig. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a drive system 300. The drive system 300 has a drive body 304 engaged with a drive member 320. The driving body 304 is configured to receive the driving member 320 therein. The drive body 304 can have a plurality of magnetic sources 312, the plurality of magnetic sources 312 coupled with the inner surface 308 of the drive body 304. The plurality of magnetic sources 312 may be arranged in a spiral configuration 314, thereby generating a spiral-shaped magnetic flux. Further, the drive body 304 can include a hollow member 306, the hollow member 306 sized such that the drive member 320 passes through the hollow member 306.

The drive body 304 can be configured to rotate about the fixed drive member 320, thereby applying a driving force to the drive body 304 along a longitudinal axis of the drive member 320. The helix 314 formed by the plurality of magnetic sources 312 is capable of generating a motive force in a first direction when the drive body 304 is rotated in a clockwise direction, and the helix 314 formed by the plurality of magnetic sources 312 is capable of generating a motive force in a second direction opposite the first direction when the drive body 304 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction.

The fixed drive member 320 may be as described above with respect to the rotating drive member 320. The drive member 320 may be a generally cylindrical tube configured to magnetically engage with the plurality of magnetic sources 312. In at least one embodiment, the drive member 320 may be formed of an aluminum alloy.

The drive body 304 can have a prime mover configured to rotate the drive body 304. The prime mover can be coupled with the drive body 304 and enable rotation of the drive body 304. The prime mover may include one or more bearings or gears to allow the drive bodies 304 to rotate independently. In at least one embodiment, the prime mover is a gear arrangement that can engage the outer surface 310 of the hollow member 306 of the drive body. The driving system 300 may include a carrier (not shown) so that a person or goods may be conveyed along the driving member 320 by the rotation of the driving body 304.

In other embodiments, the present techniques may be implemented by other configurations. In the configuration described above, the helical magnetic array is configured to traverse the drive member. In this configuration, the helical magnetic array is not subjected to centripetal forces. In another embodiment, the helical magnetic array may be rotated, which causes the helical magnetic array to be subjected to centripetal forces. This requires that the helical magnetic array be configured to resist this motion. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 8, a helical magnetic array rotates within the drive member.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a helical magnetic array propulsion system 800. The propulsion technology is spiral Magnetic Array (HMA) 802, or HMA for short. The HMA 802 is a rigid cylinder with a monopole magnetic source helix wound around it. When placed within a tube 804 of electrically conductive material (e.g., aluminum), the formed thread-like (helical) magnetic array 802 can convert rotational forces to linear forces and vice versa. As the HMA cylinder 802 rotates within the tube 804 (also referred to as a reaction tube), eddy currents are formed within the material of the tube, which results in an axial force being generated between the cylinder and the tube. If the cylinder 802 is free to move axially, the cylinder 802 will move along the interior of the tube 804 at a rate determined by the rate of rotation and the degree of current resistance to movement. Similarly, if the cylinder 802 moves axially within the tube 804, a rotational force is generated between the cylinder 802 and the tube 804. A secondary force, a radial centering force, is also generated which supports the cylinder 802 away from contact with the inner wall of the reaction tube 804.

In the present HMA propulsion system 800, the reaction tube 804 has a slot that extends the length of the reaction tube 804 through which a support arm can support the HMA cylinder 802. These support arms may be connected to a vehicle, bogie, or other object being transported by the HMA propulsion system 800. The reaction tubes 804 are substantially continuous along the direction of travel of the track. A conventional rotating motor rotates the HMA cylinder 802, providing contactless propulsion to the vehicle. When the electrical energy input ceases, the kinetic energy of the vehicle is transferred back to the cylinder 802 as rotational energy. The rotating cylinder 802, still connected to the motor, can act as a generator to convert the kinetic energy of the motion system back into electrical energy, in other words, regeneration.

The electrical power for the rotating electrical machine may be provided by an on-board battery or generator, or may be transmitted to the vehicle via electrical cables, inductive or sliding electrical contacts. Other forms of rotating electrical machines, such as internal combustion engines or gas turbines, may also be utilized to drive the HMA cylinder 802. The HMA propulsion system 800 may achieve speeds up to 100mps (223 mph). In other embodiments, the HMA propulsion system 800 may achieve speeds above 100mps, depending on the structure and materials involved.

One of the more attractive attributes of the HMA system 800 is the simplicity of the reaction tube structure. In most cases, the reaction tube is simply a slotted aluminum tube. In at least one embodiment, the wall thickness may be between 8 millimeters (mm) and 13 mm, and the diameter may be around 300 mm. Absolute straightness is not a critical factor, as the air gap between the surface of the HMA 802 and the inner surface of the reaction tube 804 may be a few millimeters. In one embodiment, the air gap may be approximately 5mm-10 mm. Also, surface smoothness is not important to operation. The reaction tubes may also be wet, iced, dirty or greasy, which has no effect on the magnetic pull force of the system.

In the event of an emergency stop, the HMA cylinder 802 may exert a significant deceleration force on the vehicle. This can be achieved by "dumping" the generated electrical energy into the resistor bank or by mechanical braking or even locking the rotating shaft.

The HMA propulsion system may also be applied to other horizontal transport systems, such as large trains, hopper barges, linear actuators or conveying systems. HMA propulsion systems may also be well suited for use in vertical transport systems, such as elevators. As the building height increases, the elevator has to serve longer trips, and the problem of elevator cables or the elimination of these problems has become the heart of the technological development. Linear Induction Motors (LIMs) have been considered to be increasingly attractive. In many respects, HMA functions similarly to LIM, but the former has some significant advantages. HMA tends to be very efficient compared to LIM. Moreover, the HMA reaction tube is significantly less complex, precise and expensive compared to the LIM reaction trajectory. In the case of HMA, the tolerances are much larger. And the HMA has good fail safe functional characteristics and can automatically engage the shaft braking or locking mechanism upon a power outage to effectively prevent the elevator from falling freely.

It is also conceivable that an elevator system could be designed that is not limited to a single vertical path, but that can switch paths using rail switching technology. In this way, a cluster of elevator shafts carrying a plurality of cars can transport more people more quickly and more directly.

It is believed that the embodiments and advantages will be understood from the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention or sacrificing all of its advantages, the embodiments described above being merely illustrative of the invention.