USOO7242118B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 7,242,118 B2

Sakamoto (45) Date of Patent: Jul. 10, 2007
(54) TOROIDAL-COIL LINEAR STEPPING 4,739.201 A * 4/1988 Brigham et al. .......... 31049 R
MOTOR, TOROIDAL-COIL LINEAR 4,810.915 A * 3/1989 Lissenburg et al. ........... 310,37
RECIPROCATING MOTOR, CYLINDER 4,827,163 A * 5/1989 Bhate et al. .................. 310, 15
COMPRESSOR AND CYLNDER PUMP 5:3. R
W-
58. St. aOO
USING THESE MOTORS 2002/0008601 A1* 1/2002 Yajima et al. .... ... 335,220
2004/0090295 A1* 5, 2004 Yai tal. .............. 335,229
(75) Inventor: Masafumi Sakamoto, Kiryu (JP) alma e
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(73) Assignee: Japan Servo Co., Ltd., Tokyo-to (JP)
JP 55-10885 1/1980 .................. 310, 15
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this JP 61-277362 12/1986 .................. 310, 12
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 JP 10-191619 7, 1998

(21) Appl. No.: 10/901,967 Patent Abstract of Japan, JP 10-191619, Jul. 21, 1998.
(22) Filed: Jul. 30, 2004 * cited by examiner
O O Primary Examiner Tran Nguyen
(65) Prior Publication Data (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm Oblon, Spivak, McClelland,
US 2005/0023905 A1 Feb. 3, 2005 Maier & Neustadt, P.C.
(30) Foreign Application Priority Data (57) ABSTRACT
Jul. 31, 2003 (JP) ............................. 2003-204517 A toroidal-coil multi-phase linear stepping motor includes a
Sep. 4, 2003 (JP) ............................. 2003-312264 cylindrical housing, an axis coaxially arranged inside the
Jul. 21, 2004 (JP) ............................. 2004-212514 housing, a cylindrical element Supported by the axis and an
armature fixed to the housing around the cylindrical element
(51) Int. Cl.
HO2K 4/03 (2006.01)
thr
ough an air gap in the radial direction.
- - - -
-
--
The axis is fixed
HO2K 33/6 (2006.01)
to the housing and the cylindrical
-
element linearly moves
along the axis. The cylindrical element has toroidal perma
(52) U.S. Cl. .........r irrir. 310/15 nent magnets that are alternately magnetized in N pole and
(58) Field of Classification Search ............ 310/12–14, S pole in the axial direction. The armature consists of
310/15, 49 R; 335/220, 222, 227, 229, 234: armature units arranged around the axis. Each armature unit
417/254 has a toroidal coil and a pair of armature yokes that hold the
See application file for complete search history. toroidal coil. Each armature yoke has toroidal magnetic
(56) References Cited teeth on its inner Surface. The invention also includes a
toroidal-coil single-phase linear reciprocating motor and a
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS cylinder compressor and a cylinder pump using these
3.286,911 A 11, 1966 Clarke ........................ 47254 motors.
3.675,031 A * 7, 1972 Lavigne ...................... 290.1 R
4,339,679 A * 7/1982 Urschel .................... 310, 49 R 9 Claims, 17 Drawing Sheets

30
33

WiiW 32a
27???

77t
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 1 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 1

Z442 ZZ (ZENNN
ZZYZZZZZZYZZYZZY YYYYZZZYZZY

M
4.
EY
N.
YW
NNN
E2N 2
3. %
sity/N22
Y SYYYYY
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 2 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

U V W

1331.5%
Zs NZZZM - 2
sINSINs|N|s|N|s|NIsINSINIsINISINISINISINIsINIs INI
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 3 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FG. 4

"as gig
Raisalia,
"legities
CO
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 4 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 5

227 aZ

RN NS Q-SNNNN NN NS RNNRNNN NSQNSN

% /Y/YYYYY WWLW, 1///Y211/17

FIG. 6

31 (O)
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 5 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 7
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 6 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 8
y

42a 2. 4.
47a GN-47
45a ENN-45b
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 7 Of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG 10
40
41 45a 44 45b

K7 424,
A 1612
N. 23Z32,
14,
7
2. Ele (X) 7

51 47a 42 46 47b 54

FIG 11
40
53 41 44 42 54

51 a
NNN ANN n
234
P =
Z3.
i. Z
2222 9. /
45a 45b 47b
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 8 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

YZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ27 XYZZZZZZZZY
4 53A

45Aa
2 Z23%N.
SSNs
S NN N
NYSNN: NYNY 51A
N|- 45Ab
55A S. S
56A
41A

44A
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 9 Of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

F.G. 13

62
2
61
2
62a NZSZZSZZSZZNZ-62b

FG. 14
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 10 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 15
70

K444

St.
72a-3532NZE,
Z652-72b
E-7
78a. 2EEZNZS4
2227

73

77
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 11 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 17
74 72C r

72a C/Z. 52N25 Z/

N2S25 72b
71

750

SOSs.
75a-N O ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
75b.

76

FIG. 18
7

ZZZZZY/4/YZZZZZ
N \ (YJ RN
ŽSSN25.2 72b
71

E.-K.Né
& S.
ZZZZYZZZZYZZYZZ
75b

76
 FIG 21

£;T;T;

-HË •E±
TË
-
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 14 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 22
80

ZZZZYZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

awa 21 ) HiW.
83 82
84

91b.

92

93
94
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 15 Of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 24
124 120

/ 124a 124b 124C \ 123 12

| Elli
HHS
Li E. E.
2

s
NYa N N Ya NYNYa NYaYaN N N N N Ya Ya NYa N Ya NYa Ya N
121 a
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 16 of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 26
134 130
U.S. Patent Jul. 10, 2007 Sheet 17 Of 17 US 7,242,118 B2

FIG. 28
PRIOR ART

FIG. 29
PRIOR ART
15
Z? 43 16 law- 11

2ZYZZZZZZ
N ra IPC
 US 7,242,118 B2
1. 2
TOROIDAL-COLLINEAR STEPPNG teeth at the left side of the coil is higher than that through the
MOTOR, TOROIDAL-COIL LINEAR magnetic teeth at the right side of the coil. On the other hand,
RECIPROCATING MOTOR, CYLINDER when the toroidal coil 3a at the left side is excited, the
COMPRESSOR AND CYLNDER PUMP magnetic flux density through the magnetic teeth at the right
USING THESE MOTORS side of the coil becomes higher than that through the
magnetic teeth at the left side of the coil. This breaks the
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION balance between thrusts of the respective phases, which
lowers the positioning accuracy.
1. Field of the Invention Incidentally, the structure shown in FIG. 29 has been
The present invention relates to a linear motor that is 10 known as a compressor for a car's air conditioner. The
available to be used in various industrial devices. Particu compressor shown in FIG. 29 reciprocates pistons by driv
larly, the present invention relates to a toroidal-coil linear ing power transmitted from a car's engine through an
stepping motor and a toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor electromagnetic clutch. The electromagnetic clutch is pro
that have toroidal coils in their armatures. Further, the vided with a driving wheel 10 that is rotated by the driving
present invention relates to a cylinder compressor and a 15 power of the engine and a driven wheel 12 that is pressed
cylinder pump using Such a linear stepping motor or a linear against the driving wheel 10 to transmit the driving power
reciprocating motor. when the coil 11 is excited. The rotation of the driven wheel
2. Prior Art 12 rotates a circular plate 13 that is diagonally fixed to the
Japanese unexamined patent publication Hei 10-191619 rotation axis of the driven wheel 12. A circular groove is
discloses a conventional linear stepping motor. FIG. 4 of the formed on the circular plate 13 to which balls 14 are
publication discloses a construction where a movable body engaged. Pistons 16 that reciprocate in cylinders 15 are
4 having wheels 3 slides on a linear rail 1 on which many connected to the balls 14, respectively. Rotating the circular
stator teeth 2 are formed. Each of cores 8a and 8b of the plate 13, the balls 14 follow the displacement of the engaged
movable body 4 is provided with small teeth 9 that face the positions on the circular plate 13, which reciprocates the
stator teeth 2. When an electric current is applied to coils 28 25 pistons 16 within the cylinders 15. The cylinders 15 have
and 28 that are wound around the respective cores in a intake ducts and exhaust ducts, and compressed gas is
predetermined sequence, the movable body 4 moves along Supplied to an evaporator (not shown).
the linear rail 1 by electromagnetic force that acts between In the mechanism of FIG. 29, a compression ratio can be
the stator teeth 2 and the small teeth 9. adjusted by setting the inclination angle of the circular plate
However, in the linear stepping motor disclosed in the 30 13. However, the inclination angle is determined at a manu
above publication, since the movable body (a moving ele facturing stage for each product and it cannot be changed
ment) 4 faces the linear rail 1 as the stator from one side, during use. Further, a complicated wobble action applies
electromagnetic force so-called “side pull” in a direction large mechanical stress on the mechanism, which shortens
vertical to the moving direction (electromagnetic force to useful life of the mechanism.
bring the movable body close to the rail) acts in addition to 35 If a linear motor is used as a driving Source of a com
the electromagnetic force in the moving direction. pressor to reciprocate a piston within a cylinder, the com
Accordingly, the one-side-facing type linear stepping pression ratio can be easily adjusted during use and the
motor disclosed in the publication requires a guide mecha mechanical stress can be lowered. However, if a piston of a
nism such as the wheel 3 for the movable body 4 and a compressor is only connected to a linear stepping motor,
mechanism Such as a linear bearing to receive the side pull 40 respective spaces for the cylinder and the linear stepping
so that the side pull dose not prevents the linear movement motor are necessary, and a mechanism for guiding a mov
of the movable body, which increases the cost because of a able portion is required inside the linear stepping motor,
complex mechanism. which hinders from making the device compact.
On the other hand, as shown FIG. 28, a toroidal-coil
two-phase linear stepping motor that consists of a cylindrical 45 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
stator 1 and a movable rod 2 arranged in the stator 1 has been
known. The stator 1 has two sets of stator units 3 and 4 that An object of the present invention is to solve the above
are arranged in the axial direction and a permanent magnet described problems of the conventional machines and to
5 embedded therebetween. The stator units 3 and 4 are provide an improved toroidal-coil linear stepping motor, an
provided with toroidal coils 3a and 4a, and armature yokes 50 improved toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor that do not
3b and 4b that hold the toroidal coils. On the inner surface cause the side pull, do not has deviation of the magnetic flux
of each stator unit, toroidal magnetic teeth 3c and 4c are and have high positioning accuracy. Further object of the
formed by alternately repeating projections and depressions present invention is to provide a compact cylinder compres
in the axial direction. The movable rod 2 has many toroidal sor and cylinder pump using these motors.
magnetic teeth 2a that can face the toroidal magnetic teeth 55 The toroidal-coil linear stepping motors according to the
3c and 4c. present invention are classified into (1) a multi-phase linear
According to the construction of FIG. 28, when the stepping motor having a plurality of toroidal coils, and (2)
electric current is applied to the toroidal coils 3a and 4a by a single-phase linear reciprocating motor having a single
turns, the movable rod 2 can linearly move. Since the toroidal coil.
movable rod 2 faces the stator 1 in 360 degrees, the side pull 60 (1) The multi-phase toroidal-coil linear stepping motor
is not generated. However, in the toroidal coil linear step according to the present invention comprises an armature
ping motor shown in FIG. 28, the magnetic flux density having a plurality of armature units each of which consists
through the magnetic teeth at the side of the permanent of a toroidal coil and a pair of armature yokes made from
magnet 5 is higher than that at the opposite side thereof, magnetic material to hold the toroidal coil, the armature
which causes nonuniform distribution of magnetic flux. For 65 units being coaxially arranged without interposing a perma
example, when the toroidal coil 4a at the right side is nent magnet; a cylindrical element having a magnetic struc
excited, the magnetic flux density through the magnetic ture facing the armature through an air gap in a radial
 US 7,242,118 B2
3 4
direction, the cylindrical element enabling linear relative units preferably deviate from the toroidal magnetic teeth of
movement with respect to the armature in the axial direction; the cylindrical element by t?P, 2L/P. . . . . m/P, where n is
an axis for Supporting one of the armature and the cylindrical integer satisfying 1 sin<P.
element; and a housing for Supporting the axis, the other of For the multi-phase type, it is preferable to arrange
the armature and the cylindrical element being coaxially 5 non-magnetic Substances between the respective armature
fixed to the housing. Each of the pair of armature yokes has units. Further, if the armature consists of three armature
toroidal magnetic teeth that are formed by alternately repeat units, the three toroidal coils may be connected as a star
ing projections and depressions in the axial direction on the connection or a delta connection to be driven by three
Surface facing the cylindrical element or has at least one pair terminal drive. Or, the relative position and/or relative
of toroidal permanent magnets that are alternately magne 10 moving speed between the armature and the cylindrical
tized in N pole and Spole in the axial direction. Magnetic element may be detected to determine timing for exciting the
force acted between the armature and the magnetic structure toroidal coil of the next phase.
of the cylindrical element generated by the energized toroi The multi-phase toroidal-coil linear stepping motor of the
dal coil relatively and linearly moves one of the armature present invention is Suitable to be used as a driving source
and the cylindrical element along the axis with respect to the 15 for a syringe pump or a cylinder compressor. For the
housing, or relatively and linearly moves one of the armature cylinder compressor, one or two cylinders are preferably
and the cylindrical element together with the axis with driven by one linear motor so that one to-and-fro motion of
respect to the housing. the linear motor enables intake of gas and exhaust of
(1) The multi-phase toroidal-coil linear stepping motors compressed gas. Further, a compression apparatus may
can be classified into the following three groups in view of include a plurality of cylinder compressors. In such a case,
constructions of the armature and the cylindrical element phases of the driving cycles of the cylinder compressors may
that form a magnetic circuit. be different to each other. The stroke of the linear motor can
(1-1) The magnetic structure of the cylindrical element be adjustable to change the output of the compressor.
has toroidal permanent magnets that are alternately magne On the other hand, (2) the single-phase linear reciprocat
tized in N pole and Spole in the axial direction, and each of 25 ing motor comprises an armature having a toroidal coil and
the pair of armature yokes has toroidal magnetic teeth that a pair of armature yokes made from magnetic material to
are formed by alternately repeating projections and depres hold the toroidal coil; a cylindrical element having a mag
sions in the axial direction on the Surface facing the cylin netic structure facing the armature through an air gap in a
drical element. radial direction, the cylindrical element enabling linear
(1-2) The magnetic structure of the cylindrical element 30 relative movement with respect to the armature in the axial
has toroidal magnetic teeth that are formed by alternately direction; an axis for Supporting one of the armature and the
repeating projections and depressions in the axial direction, cylindrical element; and a housing for supporting the axis,
and each of the pair of armature yokes has toroidal perma the other of the armature and the cylindrical element being
nent magnets that are alternately magnetized in N pole and coaxially fixed to the housing. Each of the pair of armature
S pole in the axial direction on the surface facing the 35 yokes has toroidal magnetic tooth that is formed as a
cylindrical element. projection on the Surface facing the cylindrical element or
(1-3) The magnetic structure of the cylindrical element has a pair of toroidal permanent magnets that are alternately
has toroidal magnetic teeth that are formed by alternately magnetized in N pole and S pole in the axial direction.
repeating projections and depressions in the axial direction, Magnetic force acted between the armature and the magnetic
and each of the pair of armature yokes has toroidal magnetic 40 structure of the cylindrical element generated by the ener
teeth that are formed by alternately repeating projections and gized toroidal coil relatively reciprocates one of the arma
depressions in the axial direction on the Surface facing the ture and the cylindrical element along the axis with respect
cylindrical element. to the housing, or relatively reciprocates one of the armature
For the types (1-1) and (1-2), the armature consists of P and the cylindrical element together with the axis with
(P is an integer equal to or larger than 2) pieces of the 45 respect to the housing.
armature units, (1-1) assuming that the pitch between the (2) The single-phase toroidal-coil linear reciprocating
permanent magnets of the cylindrical element having the motors can be classified into the following three groups in
same polarity is t, the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth of view of constructions of the armature and the cylindrical
the each armature unit being nearly equal to T, or (1-2) element that form a magnetic circuit.
assuming that the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth of the 50 (2-1) Each of the armature yokes has a single toroidal
cylindrical element is t, the pitch between the permanent magnetic tooth, and the magnetic structure of the cylindrical
magnets of the each armature unit having the same polarity element has two pairs of permanent magnets of Spole and
being nearly equal to T, when the permanent magnets having N pole, one pair of the permanent magnets can face the
the predetermined polarity correctly face the toroidal mag toroidal magnetic tooth of one of the armature yokes and the
netic teeth in one armature unit, the permanent magnets 55 other pair of the permanent magnets can face the toroidal
having the same polarity as the correctly faced permanent magnetic tooth of the other of the armature yokes, and
magnets preferably deviate from the toroidal magnetic teeth wherein the two pairs of permanent magnets are arranged so
in the other armature units by T/(2P), 21/(2P), . . . . nt/(2P) that one toroidal magnetic tooth faces N pole of one pair of
where n is integer satisfying 1 sin<P. permanent magnets when the other toroidal magnetic tooth
For the type (1-3), the armature consists of P (P is an odd 60 faces S pole of the other pair of permanent magnets.
integer equal to or larger than 3) pieces of the armature units, (2-2) The magnetic structure of the cylindrical element
assuming that the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth of the has a pair of toroidal magnetic teeth, one of the armature
cylindrical element is t, the pitch of the toroidal magnetic yokes has a pair of permanent magnets of Spole and N pole
teeth of the each armature unit being nearly equal to T, when that can face one of the toroidal magnetic teeth, and the other
the toroidal magnetic teeth of one of the armature units 65 of the armature yokes has a pair of permanent magnets of S
correctly face the toroidal magnetic teeth of the cylindrical pole and N pole that can face the other of the toroidal
element, the toroidal magnetic teeth of the other armature magnetic teeth, and wherein the two pairs of permanent
 US 7,242,118 B2
5 6
magnets are arranged so that one toroidal magnetic tooth According to the multi-phase toroidal-coil linear stepping
faces N pole of one pair of permanent magnets when the motor of the present invention, since the cylindrical element
other toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other pair faces the cylindrical armature in 360 degrees through an air
of permanent magnets. gap in the radial direction, the side pull is not generated,
(2-3) Each of the armature yokes has a single toroidal which reduces the load on the guide mechanism.
magnetic tooth, and the magnetic structure of the cylindrical Further, since a permanent magnet is not arranged
element has a pair of moving units each of which has a between the respective armature units, there is no deviation
permanent magnet magnetized in Spole and N pole in the of the magnetic flux, which keeps high positioning accuracy.
axial direction and a pair of magnetic poles sandwiching the Particularly, when a Surface magnet exposed to the air gap
permanent magnet from both sides in the axial direction, and 10 shown in (1-1), (1-2), (2-1) and (2-2) is used with a back
wherein the permanent magnets of the moving units are yoke, the magnetic flux density can be balanced among the
arranged so that the directions of magnetizations are oppo phases, which standardizes thrusts and increases positioning
site to each other and so that one toroidal magnetic tooth accuracy as compared with the embedded permanent magnet
faces the magnetic pole contacting N pole of one moving in the prior art shown in FIG. 28.
unit when the other toroidal magnetic tooth faces the mag 15 On the other hand, the single-phase toroidal-coil linear
netic pole contacting Spole of the other moving unit. reciprocating motor of the present invention can simplify the
In any case of (1) the multi-phase type and (2) the structure rather than the multi-phase motor. Further, apply
single-phase type, there are the following four combinations ing an alternating current to the single-phase toroidal coil, a
defining the stator portion and the movable portion. movable portion vibrates. When a linear motor is used as a
(a) The cylindrical element is Supported by the axis, and driving Source of a compressor, the single-phase motor has
the armature is fixed to the housing around the cylindrical higher efficiency and lower cost than the multi-phase motor.
element through an air gap in the radial direction, and That is, a composite thrust of the multi-phase motor driven
wherein the axis is fixed to the housing, whereby the by a multi-phase excitation is not equal to the Sum of the
cylindrical element relatively and linearly moves along the thrusts of the respective phase. For example, the efficiency
axis with respect to the housing. 25 in two-phase excitation is equal to
(b) The cylindrical element is supported by the axis, and
the armature is fixed to the housing around the cylindrical
element through an air gap in the radial direction, and
wherein the axis can linearly move in the axial direction with 2
respect to the housing, whereby the cylindrical element 30
relatively and linearly moves together with the axis with
respect to the housing. (about 70%) for the multi-phase motor. On the other hand,
(c) The armature is Supported by the axis, and the cylin the efficiency of the single-phase motor is about 100% in
drical element is fixed to the housing around the armature theory because it is always driven by a single-phase exci
through an air gap in the radial direction, and wherein the 35
tation.
axis is fixed to the housing, whereby the armature relatively According to the cylinder compressor of the present
and linearly moves along the axis with respect to the invention, since the axis fixed to the cylindrical element is
housing. connected to the pistons, the cylinders of the compressor can
(d) The armature is supported by the axis, and the be used as bearings, which negates the needs for a guide
cylindrical element is fixed to the housing around the 40
mechanism in the linear motor, making the compressor
armature through an air gap in the radial direction, and compact as a whole. Still further, the similar construction
wherein the axis can linearly move in the axial direction with can be used as a pump.
respect to the housing, whereby the armature relatively and
linearly moves together with the axis with respect to the DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING
housing. 45
DRAWINGS
These combinations (a), (b), (c) and (d) can be applied to
any types of (1-1), (1-2), (1-3), (2-1), (2-2), (2-3). In FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase
addition, the phrase “relatively and linearly move' includes linear stepping motor according to a first embodiment;
a case where the cylindrical element moves while the
housing is fixed and a case where the housing moves while 50 FIG. 2 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 1;
the cylindrical element is fixed, for the combination (a). FIG. 3 is an enlarged general sectional view of the
A cylinder compressor or a cylinder pump according to toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping motor of the first
the present invention comprises the single-phase toroidal embodiment;
coil linear reciprocating motor, wherein the cylindrical ele FIG. 4 shows movements of the motor in FIG. 3;
ment is fixed to the axis so that they linearly move together; 55 FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil two-phase
a pair of cylinders that are attached at both side of the linear stepping motor according to a second embodiment;
housing in the axial direction; and a pair of pistons that are FIG. 6 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 5:
attached at the respective ends of the axis. When an electric FIG. 7 shows movements of the motor in FIG. 5:
current is applied to the toroidal coil, the pistons reciprocate FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase
within the cylinders in the axial direction to pressure and 60
linear reciprocating motor according to a third embodiment;
exhaust gas or liquid. In such a case, a pair of springs are
preferably arranged between the piston and the cylinder or FIG. 9 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 8:
between the piston and a stator portion, and frequency of the FIG. 10 is a sectional view of a cylinder compressor using
applied alternating current is preferably adjusted to resonant the motor in FIG. 8 showing one moving condition;
frequency to cause resonance of the pistons in consideration 65 FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the cylinder compressor
of spring constant of the springs and inertia of the moving using the motor in FIG. 8 showing another moving condi
portion. tion;
 US 7,242,118 B2
7 8
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a cylinder compressor that porous bearing metal. The permanent magnets 23a, the back
is a variation of the applied example of the third embodi yoke 23b and the bearings 23c can linearly move along the
ment, axis 22 as a whole. When an object is connected to the
FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase cylindrical element 23, the object can be moved linearly.
linear reciprocating motor according to a fourth embodi The armature 24 consists of three armature units 24a, 24b
ment, and 24c arranged around the axis 22, and non-magnetic
FIG. 14 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 13; substances 25a and 25b arranged between the respective
FIG. 15 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase armature units. The armature unit 24a has a toroidal coil 26
linear reciprocating motor according to a fifth embodiment; that is wound around the axial line, and a pair of armature
FIG. 16 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 15: 10 yokes. 27a and 27b that hold the toroidal coil 26. The other
FIG. 17 shows one moving condition of the motor in FIG. armature units 24b and 24c have the same structure as the
15; armature unit 24a. The armature yokes. 27a and 27b are
FIG. 18 shows another moving condition of the motor in formed so that they cover the toroidal coil 26 at the inner
FIG. 15: side and the outer side. This structure of the armature yokes
FIG. 19 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase 15 enhances output and efficiency of the motor. The armature
linear stepping motor, yoke of that shape can be made by sinter molding from
FIG. 20 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 19: magnetic material. In addition, the outer portion of the
FIG. 21 shows movements of the motor in FIG. 19. armature yoke that covers around the toroidal coil 26 may be
FIG.22 is a sectional view of a cylinder compressor using deleted. In Such a case, the housing 21 should have the
the motor of the sixth embodiment; function of the deleted portion. It is preferable to use the
FIG. 23 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil two-phase non-magnetic Substances 25a and 25b in order to separate
linear stepping motor according to a seventh embodiment; the magnetic paths of the respective armature units.
FIG. 24 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase Each of the armature yokes 27a and 27b has three toroidal
linear stepping motor according to an eighth embodiment; magnetic teeth 28 on its inner Surface. The toroidal magnetic
FIG. 25 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 24; 25 teeth 28 are projecting portions formed by alternately repeat
FIG. 26 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase ing projections and depressions, and they are annularly
linear stepping motor according to a ninth embodiment; formed along the inner surfaces of the armature yokes. 27a
FIG. 27 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 26: and 27b. The toroidal magnetic teeth 28 of one armature
FIG. 28 is a sectional view of a conventional toroidal-coil yoke 27a and the toroidal magnetic teeth 28 of the other
two-phase linear stepping motor; and 30 armature yoke 27b are magnetized in opposite polarities
FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing a compressor of a when the toroidal coil 27 is excited. That is, the motor of the
conventional car's air conditioner. first embodiment belongs to the group (1-1) in view of the
magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (a) in view of the
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS Structure.
35 According to the above construction, when the toroidal
Hereinafter, embodiments of the toroidal-coil linear step coils 26 are excited, the magnetic force acted between the
ping motor, the toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor and armature 24 and the magnetic structure (the permanent
the cylinder compressor using these motors will be magnet 23a) of the cylindrical element 23 linearly moves the
described with reference to accomplished drawings. cylindrical element 23 along the axis 22. Since the armature
40 24 employs the toroidal coils, the structure of the armature
First Embodiment is simple. Further, since the cylindrical element 23 faces the
armature 24 in 360 degrees, the side pull is canceled, which
FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the toroidal-coil three-phase enables a smooth linear movement of the cylindrical element
linear stepping motor according to the first embodiment and along the axis because of the extremely small load on the
FIG. 2 is a front view of the motor in FIG. 1. The toroidal 45 bearings in the radial direction. Therefore, it is unnecessary
coil three-phase linear stepping motor 20 of the first embodi to use a guide mechanism such as a linear guide to keep an
ment is provided with a cylindrical housing 21 that consists air gap, which can provide an inexpensive linear stepping
of a small-diameter portion 21a and a large-diameter portion motor.
21b connected to each other, an axis 22 coaxially arranged Further, since the motor of the first embodiment is a
inside the housing 21, a cylindrical element 23 that is 50 three-phase motor (P=3), it is insensitive to the third har
supported by the axis 22 and an armature 24 that is fixed to monic of the magnetic field and the electric current, which
the housing 21 around the cylindrical element 23 through an can provide a low-vibration linear stepping motor. On the
air gap in the radial direction. The cylindrical element 23 can other hand, while a two-phase motor (P-2) becomes simpler
linearly move along the axis 22. in structure, it is sensitive to the third harmonic, which has
The axis 22 is inserted and fixed into a holding hole 55 higher vibration than the three-phase motor.
formed on a bottom wall 21c that stops up the end of the Still further, when a moving element faces a stator from
small-diameter portion 21a of the housing 21. The cylindri one side as disclosed in Japanese unexamined patent pub
cal element 23 has toroidal permanent magnets 23a that are lication Hei 10-191619, the facing area S between the
alternately magnetized in N pole and S pole in the axial movable element and the stator via an air gap becomes DL,
direction, a back yoke 23b that holds the permanent magnets 60 where D is a width of magnetic teeth portion of a rail and L
23a at the inside thereof, and a pair of bearings 23c attached is length of the rail. On the other hand, when a moving
to both ends of the back yoke 23b. The arrangement of the element (cylindrical element 23) faces a stator in 360
permanent magnets 23a is generally shown in FIG. 3. The degrees, the facing area via an air gap becomes (U/2)DL,
back yoke 23b is made from magnetic material, it enhances assuming that the average diameter of the air gap is D/2.
the magnetizing force of the permanent magnets 23a and 65 That is, the facing area of the present invention is 1.57 times
forms magnetic paths of the permanent magnets. The bear of the conventional structure. Since torque of a motor is
ing 23c is a sleeve bearing formed from low friction resin or proportional to the facing area, the coaxial arrangement of
 US 7,242,118 B2
10
the invention has higher efficiency and higher torque than According to the first embodiment, since the cylindrical
the one-side facing structure as the prior art. element has the permanent magnets, the distribution of the
Next, detail magnetic constructions and movement of the magnetic flux draws a sine wave, which keeps high posi
toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping motor 20 in the first tioning accuracy and lowers vibration. In addition, while the
embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is an enlarged sec armature is fixed and the cylindrical element moves linearly
tional view of the generic construction of the motor of the in the above description, the cylindrical element may be
first embodiment, and FIG. 4 shows the movement of the fixed and the armature may moves linearly with the housing.
motor in FIG. 3. The armature consists of three phases,
U-phase, V-phase and W-phase. Actually, three toroidal coils Second Embodiment
may be connected as a star connection or a delta connection 10
with three-terminal input to be driven by two-phase or FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil two-phase
three-phase drive. For the star connection, winding-end linear stepping motor 30 according to the second embodi
terminals of respective coils are connected to one another. ment, and FIG. 6 is a front view of the motor 30. The
For the delta connection, a winding-end terminal of the toroidal-coil two-phase linear stepping motor 30 of the
U-phase connects to a winding-end terminal of the V-phase, 15 second embodiment is provided with an axis 31 fixed to a
a winding-end terminal of the V-phase connects to a wind housing (not shown), a cylindrical element 32 that is Sup
ing-end terminal of the W-phase, and a winding-end termi ported by the axis 31 and an armature 33 that is fixed to the
nal of the W-phase connects to a winding-end terminal of the housing (not shown) around the cylindrical element 32
U-phase. However, the following description shows single through an air gap in the radial direction. The cylindrical
phase drive for the purpose of avoiding complication of the element 32 can linearly move along the axis 31. The
illustration. magnetic structure of the cylindrical element 32 has toroidal
In FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, an electric current applied to a coil magnetic teeth 32a that are formed on the outer surface by
of each phase is illustrated based on the Ampere's right alternately repeating projections and depressions in the axial
handed screw rule. For example, the symbol in the upper direction. Further, the cylindrical element 32 is provided
part of the coil of the U-phase means a tip of the screw, it 25 with bearings (not shown) in the same manner as the first
means the electric current progresses in a direction project embodiment.
ing from the paper surface. Further, the symbol in the lower Still further, the armature 33 consists of a pair of armature
part of the coil of the U-phase means a head of the screw, it units 33a, 33b arranged in the axial direction and a non
means the electric current progresses in a direction entering magnetic Substance 34 sandwiched between the armature
into the paper surface. The symbols indicated in other 30 units 33a and 33b. The armature unit 33a has a toroidal coil
drawings have the same meanings. 35, a pair of armature yokes 36a and 36b. The armature
Assuming that the pitch between the permanent magnets yokes 36a and 36b have toroidal permanent magnets 37a
23a of the cylindrical element 23 having the same polarity and 37b, respectively, that are attached to the inner surface
is t, the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth of the each of thereof. The permanent magnets 37a and 37b are alternately
the armature unit 24a, 24b and 24c is nearly equal to t. FIG. 35 magnetized in N pole and Spole in the axial direction so as
3 shows the condition where the coil of the U-phase is to face the toroidal magnetic teeth 32a of the cylindrical
excited. The toroidal magnetic teeth of the U-phase that are element 32. The other armature unit 33b has the same
magnetized by the toroidal coil of the U-phase attract and construction as the armature unit 33a. That is, the motor of
correctly face the opposite polarities of the permanent the second embodiment belongs to the group (1-2) in view
magnets via the air gap. At the time, the toroidal magnetic 40 of the magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (a) in view
teeth of the armature yoke of the V-phase deviates from the of the structure.
N poles of the permanent magnets by TfG2P), and the toroidal FIG. 5 shows a condition where the toroidal coil 35 of the
magnetic teeth of the armature yoke of the W-phase deviates armature unit 33a (the left side in FIG. 5) is excited. At the
from the N poles of the permanent magnets by 2/(2P). In time, the magnetic force of the toroidal coil 35 weakens the
this case, since P-3, assuming that t=2L, the deviation of the 45 magnetic flux of the N pole and enhances the magnetic flux
V-phase is L/3, that of the W-phase is 2.7L/3. The amount of the S pole of the permanent magnet 37a arranged at the
T/(2P) becomes a step moving amount. That is, the step left side of the coil, and it weakens the magnetic flux of the
moving amount of the two-phase motor is 4 of the pitch T, Spole and enhances the magnetic flux of the N pole of the
and the step moving amount of the three-phase motor is /6 permanent magnet 37 b arranged at the right side of the coil.
of the pitch t. 50 As a result, the Spole of the permanent magnet 37a and the
Basically, the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth formed N pole of the permanent magnet 37b attract and correctly
on the armature yoke is determined to be identical to the face the toroidal magnetic teeth 32a.
pitch of the permanent magnets of the cylindrical element In the second embodiment, assuming that the pitch
having the same polarity. However, the pitches may be set between the toroidal magnetic teeth 32a of the cylindrical
different in order to weaken the cogging torque. The expres 55 element 32 having the same polarity is t, the pitch of the
sion “nearly equal to t” includes the condition where these permanent magnets 37a and 37b of each armature unit 33a
pitches are slightly different to weaken the cogging torque in and 33b is nearly equal to t. Since P-2, when the permanent
addition to the condition where these pitches are exactly magnets of one armature unit 33a having a predetermined
equal to each other. polarity correctly face the toroidal magnetic teeth 32a of the
As shown in (1), (2) and (3) in FIG. 4, an electric current 60 cylindrical element 32, the permanent magnets of the other
in a predetermined direction is applied to the U-phase, the armature unit 33b having the same polarity deviate from the
V-phase and the W-phase in turns. After that, as shown in toroidal magnetic teeth 32a of the cylindrical element 32 by
(4), (5) and (6) in FIG. 4, an electric current in the opposite T/4. Assuming that t=2it, the deviation is t(2 that is a step
direction is applied to the U-phase, the V-phase and the moving amount.
W-phase in turns. According to the above excitation, the 65 FIG. 7 shows the one cycle movement of the motor in the
cylindrical element 23 linearly moves /6 of the pitch t by second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, (1) an electric
every step, and moves one pitch T by six steps. current in a predetermined direction is applied to the left
 US 7,242,118 B2
11 12
armature unit 36a, (2) an electric current in an opposite 42b as shown in FIG.8. On the other hand, when an electric
direction is applied to the right armature unit 36b, (3) an current is applied to the toroidal coil 44 in the opposite
electric current in the opposite direction is applied to the left direction, the magnetic flux caused by the excited coil
armature unit 36a, and (4) an electric current in the prede enhances the magnetic flux of the S pole and weakens the
termined direction is applied to the right armature unit 36b. magnetic flux of the N pole of the permanent magnet 47a,
According to the above excitation, the cylindrical element while enhances the magnetic flux of the N pole and weakens
32 linearly moves 4 of the pitch T by every step, and moves the magnetic flux of the Spole of the permanent magnet 47b.
one pitch T by four steps. As a result, the Spole of the permanent magnet 47a and the
Since the motor of the second embodiment uses perma N pole of the permanent magnet 47b attract the toroidal
nent magnet, the motor has high positioning accuracy and 10 magnetic teeth 42a and 42b, which moves the cylindrical
low vibration as with the first embodiment. In addition, since element 42 in the right direction in FIG. 8.
the usage of the permanent magnet, which is more expensive Therefore, applying an alternating current to the toroidal
than magnetic material Such as iron, in the second embodi coil 44, the cylindrical element 42 reciprocates right and left
ment is smaller than the first embodiment, the entire cost of (vibrates) with the axis 41. That is, the motor of the third
the motor can be reduced. Further, while the armature is 15 embodiment belongs to the group (2-2) in view of the
fixed and the cylindrical element moves linearly in the magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (b) in view of the
second embodiment, the cylindrical element may be fixed Structure.
and the armature may moves linearly with the housing. FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 are sectional views showing moving
conditions of a cylinder compressor employing the motor 40
Third Embodiment of the third embodiment. The cylinder compressor is formed
by attaching a first cylinder 51 and a second cylinder 52 to
FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase both sides of the motor 40 of the third embodiment in the
linear reciprocating motor 40 according to the third embodi axial direction.
ment, and FIG. 9 is a front view of the motor 40. The In the example, the axis 41 and the cylindrical element 42
toroidal-coil single-phase linear reciprocating motor 40 of 25 are fixed to each other to linearly move as a unit (that is, it
the third embodiment is provided with an axis 41 that is belongs to the group (b) as well as the third embodiment),
Supported by a housing (not shown), a cylindrical element and a first piston 53 and a second piston 54, which recip
42 fixed to the axis 41 and an armature 43 that is fixed to the rocate within the first and second cylinders 51 and 52.
housing (not shown) around the cylindrical element 42 respectively, are attached to the respective ends of the axis
through an air gap in the radial direction. The axis 41 can 30 41.
linearly reciprocate with respect to the housing (not shown). The first and second cylinders 51, 52 have intake ports
The cylindrical element 42 is made from magnetic material 51a, 52a and exhaust ports 51b, 52b, respectively. Each port
and has a pair of toroidal magnetic teeth 42a, 42b at both has a valve to control intake and exhaust of gas. Further,
ends to form as a spool. The housing of the motor in FIG. springs 55, 56 are arranged between the pistons 53, 54 and
8 can be constructed in the same manner as FIG. 10. 35 the cylinders 51, 52, respectively.
The armature 43 consists of a single armature unit, it has As described above, the cylinder compressor has two
a toroidal coil 44, a pair of armature yokes 45a, 45b with compressor units at both sides of the linear motor and the
flanges that hold the toroidal coil 44, and a cylindrical yoke pistons 53, 54 reciprocating within the cylinders 51, 52 have
46 that covers the outer surface of the toroidal coil 44 and functions of bearings that guide the movable portion of the
contacts the armature yokes 45a, 45b. The inner side of each 40 linear motor. Accordingly, since the motor is not required to
of the armature yokes 45a, 45b is formed to wrap around the have its own bearing, the entire compressor including the
inner side of the toroidal coil 44. Further, the armature yoke motor becomes compact.
45a has a pair of permanent magnets 47a on the inner Applying an alternating current to the toroidal coil 44, the
surface thereof. The permanent magnet 47a consists of N cylindrical element 42 reciprocates between the position
pole that is magnetized in the radial direction around the 45 shown in FIG. 10 and the position shown in FIG. 11. Since
entire area and S pole that is similarly magnetized and is the axis 41 moves together with the cylindrical element 42,
adjacent to the N pole in the axial direction. The N pole and the pistons 53, 54, which are attached to both ends of the axis
the S pole of the permanent magnets 47a can face the 41, reciprocate within the cylinders 51, 52. That is, in the
toroidal magnetic tooth 42a. The other armature yoke 45b condition shown in FIG. 10, the electric current passing
has a pair of permanent magnets 47b on the inner Surface 50 through the toroidal coil 44 in the indicated direction causes
thereof. The permanent magnets 47b also includes N pole the coil magnetic flux as shown by the dotted line. The coil
and Spole arranged in the axial direction. The Spole and the magnetic flux enhances the magnetic flux of the permanent
N pole of the permanent magnets 47b can face the other magnets as shown by the Solid line. As a result, the N pole
toroidal magnetic teeth 42b. These permanent magnets 47a of the permanent magnets 47a and the S pole of the
and 47 b are arranged so that one toroidal magnetic tooth 55 permanent magnets 47b attract the toroidal magnetic teeth
faces N pole of one pair of permanent magnets when the 42a, 42b of the cylindrical element 42. Then, gas in the first
other toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other pair cylinder 51 is compressed and discharged through the
of permanent magnets. exhaust port 51b, while the second cylinder 52 takes in gas
When an electric current is applied to the toroidal coil 44 through the intake port 52a. At the time, the intake port 51a
in a predetermined direction, the magnetic flux caused by the 60 and the exhaust port 52b are closed.
excited coil enhances the magnetic flux of the N pole and Next, when the direction of the electric current is
weakens the magnetic flux of the S pole of the permanent Switched, the compressor changes to the condition shown in
magnet 47a, while enhances the magnetic flux of the Spole FIG. 11. During the change of the condition, the first
and weakens the magnetic flux of the N pole of the perma cylinder 51 takes in gas through the intake port 51a, while
nent magnet 47b. As a result, the N pole of the permanent 65 the second cylinder 52 compresses and discharges gas
magnet 47a and the S pole of the permanent magnet 47b through the exhaust port 52b. At the time, the exhaust port
attract and correctly face the toroidal magnetic teeth 42a and 51b and the intake port 52a are closed.
 US 7,242,118 B2
13 14
An air conditioner can be constructed by attaching an case 53A is fixed to the cylindrical element 42A, the piston
evaporator to the cylinder compressor in FIGS. 10 and 11. case 53A reciprocates within the cylinder case 51A. That is,
The evaporator rapidly expands the gas compressed by the in the condition shown in FIG. 12, the coil magnetic flux
compressor to cool the gas. The air conditioner absorbs heat caused by the electric current passing through the toroidal
of Surrounding air by the cooled gas to cool the Surrounding 5 coil 44A in the indicated direction enhances the magnetic
air. The construction shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 can be used flux of the N pole of the permanent magnets 47Aa and the
as a pump for conveying liquid. In addition, while the Spole of the permanent magnets 47Ab. As a result, the N
springs 55, 56 are arranged between the pistons 53, 54 and pole of the permanent magnets 47Aa and the S pole of the
the cylinders 51, 52 in FIGS. 10 and 11, they may be permanent magnets 47 Ab attract the toroidal magnetic teeth
arranged between the pistons 53, 54 and the stator portion of 10 42Aa, 42Ab of the cylindrical element 42A, which moves
the motor (the armature 43, for example). the piston case 53A to the left side in FIG. 12. Then, gas in
Frequency of the applied alternating current is preferably the left chamber between the cylinder case 51A and the
adjusted to resonant frequency by means of an inverter or the piston case 53A is compressed and discharged through the
like in consideration of spring constant of the springs 55, 56 exhaust port, while the right chamber between the cylinder
and inertia of the moving portion. When the frequency of the 15 case 51A and the piston case 53A takes in gas through the
alternating current is equal to the resonant frequency, the intake port.
pistons cause resonance, which increases efficiency of the When the direction of the electric current is switched, the
compressor. In general, since the single-phase motor has a Spole of the permanent magnets 47Aa and the N pole of the
single magnetic flux vector, the efficiency thereof is higher permanent magnets 47 Ab attract the toroidal magnetic teeth
than that of the multi-phase motor. Further, manufacturing 42Aa, 42Ab of the cylindrical element 42A, which moves
cost of the single-phase motor is lower than the multi-phase the piston case 53A to the right side. Then, gas in the right
motor because of its simple construction. chamber is compressed and discharged through the exhaust
FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a cylinder compressor that port, while the right chamber takes in gas through the intake
is a variation of the cylinder compressor in FIGS. 10 and 11. port.
The motor 40A employed in this example belongs to the 25 An air conditioner can be constructed by attaching an
group (2-2) in view of the magnetic circuit as well as the evaporator to the cylinder compressor in FIG. 12. Frequency
third embodiment, while it belongs to the group (d) in view of the applied alternating current is preferably adjusted to
of the structure. That is, an armature 43A is fixed to a hollow resonant frequency in consideration of spring constant of the
axis 41A, and a cylindrical element 42A is arranged around springs 55A, 56A and inertia of the moving portion. When
the armature 43A. The hollow axis 41A is fixed to a cylinder 30 the frequency of the alternating current is equal to the
case 51A at both ends, and the cylindrical element 42A is resonant frequency, the pistons cause resonance, which
fixed to the inner surface of a piston case 53A that has a increases efficiency of the compressor.
function of the housing. The piston case 53A can reciprocate
within the cylinder case 51A. Both of the cylinder case 51A Fourth Embodiment
and the piston case 53A are formed as cylinders with circular 35
bottom walls at both sides. Coil springs 55A, 56A wind FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase
around the hollow axis 41A at the positions between the linear reciprocating motor 60 according to the fourth
bottom walls of the cylinder case 51A and the bottom walls embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a front view of the motor 60.
of the piston case 53A. The toroidal-coil single-phase linear reciprocating motor 40
The armature 43A has a toroidal coil 44A and a pair of 40 of the third embodiment is provided with an axis 61 that is
armature yokes 45Aa, 45Ab that hold the toroidal coil 44A. Supported by a housing (not shown), a cylindrical element
A lead line L that applies an electric current to the toroidal 62 fixed to the axis 61 and an armature 63 that is fixed to the
coil 44A is wired through the inner space of the hollow axis housing (not shown) around the cylindrical element 62
41A. The armature yoke 45Aa has permanent magnets 47Aa through an air gap in the radial direction. The axis 61 can
that consists of N pole and S pole on the outer surface 45 linearly reciprocate with respect to the housing (not shown).
thereof, and the armature yoke 45 Ab has permanent magnets The armature 63 consists of a single armature unit, it has
47 Ab that consists of N pole and Spole on the outer surface a toroidal coil 64, a pair of armature yokes 65a, 65b with
thereof. The cylindrical element 42A has a pair of toroidal flanges that hold the toroidal coil 64, and a cylindrical yoke
magnetic teeth 42Aa, 42Ab, which are inwardly projected, 66 that covers the outer surface of the toroidal coil 64 and
at both ends in the axial direction. These permanent magnets 50 contacts the armature yokes 65a, 65b. The inner side of each
47Aa and 47Ab are arranged so that one toroidal magnetic of the armature yokes 65a, 65b is formed to wrap around the
tooth faces N pole of one pair of permanent magnets when inner side of the toroidal coil 64. The armature yokes 65a
the other toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other has a single toroidal magnetic tooth 65c on the inner Surface
pair of permanent magnets. thereof and the armature yoke 65b has a single toroidal
Further, the intake port and the exhaust port are formed on 55 magnetic tooth 65d on the inner surface thereof. When the
both of the bottom walls of the cylinder case 51A in the same toroidal coil 64 is excited, the toroidal magnetic teeth 65c
manner as that in FIGS. 10 and 11. Each port has a valve to and 65d are magnetized in the opposite polarities.
control intake and exhaust of gas. The cylindrical element 62 is provided with a cylinder
As described above, the cylinder compressor has two portion made from magnetic material around the axis 61 and
compressor units at both sides of the linear motor. Further, 60 two pairs of toroidal permanent magnets 62a and 62b
the piston case 53A reciprocating within the cylinder case arranged around the cylinder portion. The permanent mag
51A has a function of the bearing that guides the movable nets 62a, which can face one toroidal magnetic tooth 65c,
portion of the linear motor. Accordingly, since the motor is consists of N pole and Spole arranged in the axial direction.
not required to have its own bearing, the entire compressor The permanent magnets 62b, which can face the other
including the motor becomes compact. 65 toroidal magnetic tooth 65d, consists of Spole and N pole
Applying an alternating current to the toroidal coil 44A, arranged in the axial direction. These permanent magnets
the cylindrical element 42A reciprocates. Since the piston 62a and 62b are arranged so that one toroidal magnetic tooth
 US 7,242,118 B2
15 16
faces N pole of one pair of permanent magnets when the tacting N pole of one moving unit when the other toroidal
other toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other pair magnetic tooth 75d faces the magnetic pole contacting S
of permanent magnets. That is, the motor of the fourth pole of the other moving unit. That is, the motor of the fifth
embodiment belongs to the group (2-1) in view of the embodiment belongs to the group (2-3) in view of the
magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (a) in view of the magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (b) in view of the
Structure. Structure.
When an electric current is applied to the toroidal coil 64 When an electric current is applied to the toroidal coil 74
in a predetermined direction, the magnetic flux caused by the in a predetermined direction, the excited coil causes the
excited coil magnetizes the toroidal magnetic tooth 65c of magnetic flux as shown by the dotted line in FIG. 17, which
one armature yoke 65a as N pole and the toroidal magnetic 10 magnetizes the toroidal magnetic tooth 75c of one armature
tooth 65d of the other armature yoke 65b as S pole. yoke 75a as Spole and the toroidal magnetic tooth 75d of
Therefore, the toroidal magnetic tooth 65c attracts the Spole the other armature yoke 75b as N pole. Therefore, the
of the permanent magnet 62a and the toroidal magnetic toroidal magnetic tooth 75c attracts the magnetic pole of the
tooth 65d attracts the N pole of the permanent magnet 62b. first moving unit 72a contacting N pole, and the toroidal
As a result, the cylindrical element 62 and the axis 61 move 15 magnetic tooth 75d attracts the magnetic pole of the second
to the left side from the neutral condition shown in FIG. 13. moving unit 72b contacting S pole. As a result, the cylin
On the other hand, when an electric current is applied to drical element 72 and the axis 71 move to the right side from
the toroidal coil 64 in the opposite direction, the magnetic the neutral condition shown in FIG. 15 to the position shown
flux caused by the excited coil magnetizes the toroidal in FIG. 17. The magnetic flux from the N pole to the S pole
magnetic tooth 65c of one armature yoke 65a as Spole and of the permanent magnet 77 of the first moving unit 72a
the toroidal magnetic tooth 65d of the other armature yoke forms a closed magnetic circuit passing through the arma
65b as N pole. Therefore, the toroidal magnetic tooth 65c ture yoke 75a, the cylindrical yoke 76, the other armature
attracts the N pole of the permanent magnet 62a and the yoke 75b, the second moving unit 72b, the magnetic sub
toroidal magnetic tooth 65d attracts the S pole of the stance 72c, and returning to the S pole of the permanent
permanent magnet 62b. As a result, the cylindrical element 25 magnet 77 as shown by the solid line in FIG. 17.
62 and the axis 61 move to the right side from the neutral On the other hand, when an electric current is applied to
condition shown in FIG. 13. Therefore, applying an alter the toroidal coil 74 in the opposite direction, the excited coil
nating current to the toroidal coil 64, the cylindrical element causes the magnetic flux as shown by the dotted line in FIG.
62 reciprocates right and left (vibrates) with the axis 61. 18, which magnetizes the toroidal magnetic tooth 75c of one
30 armature yoke 75a as N pole and the toroidal magnetic tooth
Fifth Embodiment 75d of the other armature yoke 75b as Spole. Therefore, the
toroidal magnetic tooth 75c attracts the magnetic pole of the
FIG. 15 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil single-phase first moving unit 72a contacting S pole, and the toroidal
linear reciprocating motor 70 according to the fifth embodi magnetic tooth 75d attracts the magnetic pole of the second
ment, and FIG. 16 is a front view of the motor 70. The 35 moving unit 72b contacting N pole. As a result, the cylin
toroidal-coil single-phase linear reciprocating motor 70 of drical element 72 and the axis 71 move to the left side from
the fifth embodiment is provided with an axis 71 that is the neutral condition shown in FIG. 15 to the position shown
Supported by a housing (not shown), a cylindrical element in FIG. 18. The magnetic flux from the N pole to the S pole
72 fixed to the axis 71 and an armature 73 that is fixed to the of the permanent magnet 77 of the second moving unit 72b
housing (not shown) around the cylindrical element 72 40 forms a closed magnetic circuit passing through the arma
through an air gap in the radial direction. The axis 71 can ture yoke 75b, the cylindrical yoke 76, the other armature
linearly reciprocate with respect to the housing (not shown). yoke 75a, the first moving unit 72a and the magnetic
The armature 73 consists of a single armature unit, it has substance 72c as shown by the solid line in FIG. 18.
a toroidal coil 74, a pair of armature yokes 75a, 75b with Therefore, applying an alternating current to the toroidal
flanges that hold the toroidal coil 74, and a cylindrical yoke 45 coil 74, the cylindrical element 72 reciprocates right and left
76 that covers the outer surface of the toroidal coil 74 and (vibrates) with the axis 71. Since the motor of the fifth
contacts the armature yokes 75a, 75b. The inner side of each embodiment employs the HB type cylindrical element, the
of the armature yokes 75a, 75b is formed to wrap around the magnetic flux density from the permanent magnet is higher
inner side of the toroidal coil 74. The armature yokes 75a than that of the PM type cylindrical element as shown in the
has a single toroidal magnetic tooth 75c on the inner Surface 50 fourth embodiment. Therefore, the motor of the fifth
thereof and the armature yoke 75b has a single toroidal embodiment is insensitive to reaction of the armature (de
magnetic tooth 75d on the inner surface thereof. When the magnetization of the permanent magnet) caused by the coil
toroidal coil 74 is excited, the toroidal magnetic teeth 75c Current.
and 75d are magnetized in the opposite polarities. Further, the motor 60 of the fourth embodiment or the
The cylindrical element 72 has first and second HB type 55 motor 70 of the fifth embodiment can be used as the driving
moving units 72a, 72b and a magnetic substance 72c source of the cylinder compressor shown in FIG. 10 as well
arranged between the moving units. The moving units 72a. as the motor of the third embodiment. In such a case, pistons
72b and the magnetic substance 72c are fixed to the axis 71 are attached to both ends of the axis 61 (71) that is fixed to
so that they can reciprocate with the axis with respect to the the cylindrical element 62 (72) to drive a compressor or a
housing (not shown). The first moving unit 72a consists of 60 pump in the same manner as FIG. 10.
a permanent magnet 77 magnetized in Spole and N pole in
the axial direction and a pair of magnetic poles 78a, 78b Sixth Embodiment
sandwiching the permanent magnet 77 from both sides in the
axial direction. The second moving unit 72b has the same FIG. 19 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase
construction as the first moving unit 72a. The first and 65 linear stepping motor 80 according to the sixth embodiment,
second moving units 72a, 72b are arranged so that one and FIG. 20 is a front view of the motor 80. The toroidal-coil
toroidal magnetic tooth 75c faces the magnetic pole con three-phase linear stepping motor 80 of the sixth embodi
 US 7,242,118 B2
17 18
ment is provided with a cylindrical housing 81 that consists the armature unit of the U-phase are magnetized and they
of a small-diameter portion 81a and a large-diameter portion attract and face the toroidal magnetic teeth of the cylindrical
81b connected to each other, an axis 82 coaxially arranged element. At the time, the toroidal magnetic teeth of the
inside the housing 81, a cylindrical element 83 that is armature unit of the V-phase deviate from the toroidal
supported by the axis 82 and an armature 84 that is fixed to magnetic teeth of the cylindrical element by tP and the
the housing 81 around the cylindrical element 83 through an toroidal magnetic teeth of the armature unit of the W-phase
air gap in the radial direction. The cylindrical element 83 can deviate from the toroidal magnetic teeth of the cylindrical
linearly move along the axis 82. element by 2/P. In the sixth embodiment, since P-3,
The axis 82 is inserted and fixed into a holding hole assuming that t=2it, the deviation of the V-phase is 2L/3,
formed on a bottom wall 81c that stops up the end of the 10
that of the W-phase is 47L/3. The amount X/P becomes a step
small-diameter portion 81a of the housing 81. The cylindri moving amount. That is, the step moving amount of the
cal element 83 has toroidal magnetic teeth 83a that are two-phase motor is /2 of the pitch T, and the step moving
formed on the outer Surface by alternately repeating projec
tions and depressions in the axial direction. The cylindrical amount of the three-phase motor is /3 of the pitch t.
element 83 also has a pair of bearings 83b at both ends 15 As shown in (1), (2) and (3) in FIG. 21, when an electric
thereof. current in a predetermined direction is applied to the
The armature 84 consists of three armature units 84a, 84b U-phase, the V-phase and the W-phase in turns, the cylin
and 84c arranged around the axis 82, and non-magnetic drical element 83 linearly moves /3 of the pitch t by every
substances 85a and 85b arranged between the respective step, and moves one pitch T by three steps.
armature units. The armature unit 84a has a toroidal coil 86 Basically, the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth formed
that is wound around the axial line, and a pair of armature on the armature yoke is determined to be identical to the
yokes 87a and 87b that hold the toroidal coil 86. The other pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth formed on the cylindrical
armature units 84b and 84c have the same structure as the
element. However, the pitches may be set different in order
armature unit 84a. The armature yokes 87a and 87b are to weaken the cogging torque.
formed so that they cover the toroidal coil 86 at the inner 25
Since the motor of the sixth embodiment does not use
side and the outer side.
Each of the armature yokes 87a and 87b has three toroidal permanent magnets, the cost of the motor can be reduced
magnetic teeth 88 on its inner Surface. The toroidal magnetic while the torque decreases.
teeth 88 are projecting portions formed by alternately repeat FIG. 22 is a sectional view of a cylinder compressor
ing projections and depressions, and they are annularly 30 employing the toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping
formed along the inner surfaces of the armature yokes 87a motor 80 of the sixth embodiment. The motor 80 has the
and 87b. The toroidal magnetic teeth 88 of one armature housing 81, the axis 82, the cylindrical element 83 and the
yoke 87a and the toroidal magnetic teeth 88 of the other armature 84. In FIG. 22, the motor 80 is illustrated in the
armature yoke 87b are magnetized in opposite polarities simplified form. A cylinder 100 is coaxially fixed to the
when the toroidal coil 87 is excited. That is, the motor of the 35 motor 80 and a piston 110 is attached to the end of the
first embodiment belongs to the group (1-3) in view of the cylindrical element 83. Driving the motor 80 to linearly
magnetic circuit and belongs to the group (a) in view of the move the cylindrical element 83, the piston 110 reciprocates
Structure. within the cylinder 100. Further, the cylinder 100 has an
According to the above construction, when the toroidal intake port 101 and an exhaust port 102. The intake port 101
coils 86 are excited, the magnetic force acted between the 40 has a valve (not shown) that opens during an intake process
armature 84 and the magnetic structure (the toroidal mag when the piston 110 moves to right side to pass gas in a
netic teeth 83a) of the cylindrical element 83 linearly moves direction of the arrow and closes during a compression
the cylindrical element 83 along the axis 82. Since the process when the piston 110 moves to left side. The exhaust
armature 84 employs the toroidal coils, the structure of the port 102 also has a valve (not shown) that closes during the
armature is simple. Further, since the cylindrical element 83 45 intake process and opens when the pressure exceeds a
faces the armature 84 in 360 degrees, the side pull is predetermined value in the compression process to pass gas
canceled, which enables a smooth linear movement of the in a direction of the arrow.
cylindrical element along the axis because of the extremely An air conditioner can be constructed by attaching an
small load on the bearings in the radial direction. Therefore, evaporator to the cylinder compressor in FIG. 22. In addi
it is unnecessary to use a guide mechanism Such as a linear 50 tion, since the housing of the motor 80 is cylindrical as well
guide to keep an air gap, which can provide an inexpensive as the cylinder 100, these can be easily connected when the
linear stepping motor. diameters of the housing and the cylinder are equated.
Next, detail magnetic constructions and movement of the Further, since the compressor in FIG. 22 directly drives the
toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping motor 80 in the piston 110 by the linear motor 80, it dose not need a
sixth embodiment will be described. FIG. 21 shows the 55 mechanism to convert a rotating movement into a linear
movement of the motor of the sixth embodiment. The movement that is necessary when a rotating motor is
armature consists of three phases, U-phase, V-phase and employed, which makes the compressor simple and com
W-phase. Actually, three toroidal coils may be connected as pact. Still further, if a compression apparatus includes a
a star connection or a delta connection to be driven by plurality of compressors shown in FIG.22 and phases of the
multi-phase drive. However, the following description 60 driving cycles are changed to be different to each other, the
shows single-phase drive for the purpose of avoiding com compression apparatus continuously Supplies the compres
plication of the illustration. sion gas to the evaporator, which stabilizes the cooling
Assuming that the pitch of the toroidal magnetic teeth of effect. The phases of the compressors can be easily changed
the cylindrical element is t, the pitch of the toroidal mag by electrically controlling the phases of the linear motors.
netic teeth of the each armature unit being nearly equal to t. 65 The compression ratio, which determines the output, is also
FIG. 21 (1) shows the condition where the coil of the easily adjusted by controlling the strokes of the linear
U-phase is excited. Therefore, the toroidal magnetic teeth of motorS.
 US 7,242,118 B2
19 20
Since the conventional compressor shown in FIG. 29 uses other hand, the three toroidal magnetic teeth 96a of the right
an engine power, it is not suitable to an electric vehicle. The half of the first armature unit 94a are not magnetized
electric compressor as shown in FIG. 22 is suitable to an because the magnetic flux of the permanent magnet 94c is
electric vehicle. canceled by the coil magnetic flux. As a result, the cylin
In addition, while FIG.22 shows the cylinder compressor 5 drical element 93 moves to the position where the three
employing the toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping toroidal magnetic teeth 96a of the left half of the first
motor 80 of the sixth embodiment, the compressor can armature unit 94a face the toroidal magnetic teeth93a of the
employ the motors of the other embodiments. cylindrical element 93. The magnetic flux from the N pole
of the permanent magnet 94c forms a closed magnetic
Seventh Embodiment 10 circuit passing through the toroidal magnetic teeth96a of the
first armature unit 94a, the toroidal magnetic teeth93a of the
FIG. 23 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil two-phase cylindrical element 93 that face the teeth 96a, the toroidal
linear stepping motor 90 according to the seventh embodi magnetic teeth 96a of the second armature unit 94b that
ment. The motor 90 of the seventh embodiment is provided deviate by /4 pitch, and returning to the S pole of the
with a cylindrical housing 91 that consists of a cylinder 15 permanent magnet 94c.
portion 91a and a bottom wall 91b, an axis 92 coaxially At the next step, an electric current is applied to the
arranged inside the hosing 91, the cylindrical element 93 that toroidal coil 95 of the second armature unit 94b in the
can linearly move along the axis 92 and an armature 94 fixed opposite direction. Then, the coil magnetic flux of S pole
to the housing 91 around the cylindrical element 93 through occurs at the left side and the coil magnetic flux of N pole
an air gap in the radial direction. occurs at the right side. The three toroidal magnetic teeth
The axis 92 is inserted and fixed into a holding hole 96a of the left half of the second armature unit 94b are
formed on the bottom wall 91b of the housing 91. The strongly magnetized in Spole because the magnetic flux of
cylindrical element 93 has toroidal magnetic teeth 93a that the permanent magnet 94c is enhanced by the coil magnetic
are formed on the outer Surface by alternately repeating flux. On the other hand, the three toroidal magnetic teeth96a
projections and depressions in the axial direction. 25 of the right half of the second armature unit 94b are not
The armature 94 consists of first and second annular magnetized because the magnetic flux of the permanent
armature units 94a. 94b arranged around the axis 92 in the magnet 94c is canceled by the coil magnetic flux. As a result,
axial direction, and a permanent magnet 94c embedded the cylindrical element 93 moves by 4 pitch in the left side
between the armature units 94a. 94b. The armature unit 94a from the position shown in FIG. 23 to the position where the
has a toroidal coil 95 that is wound around the axial line, and 30 three toroidal magnetic teeth 96a of the left half of the
an armature yoke 96 that hold the toroidal coil 96. The second armature unit 94b face the toroidal magnetic teeth
armature yoke 96 is made from magnetic material. 93a of the cylindrical element 93.
The armature yoke 96 has toroidal magnetic teeth 96a on As described above, the electric current is applied to the
its inner surface so as to face the toroidal magnetic teeth93a toroidal coil 95 of the first armature unit 94a in the prede
formed on the cylindrical element. Three toroidal magnetic 35 termined direction at the first step, and the electric current is
teeth 96a are formed at one side of the toroidal coil 95 and applied to the toroidal coil 95 of the second armature unit
three toroidal magnetic teeth96a are formed at the other side 94b in the opposite direction at the second step. In the same
of the toroidal coil 95. Further, when the toroidal magnetic manner, the electric current is applied to the toroidal coil 95
teeth96a at the left side of the toroidal coil 95 correctly face of the first armature unit 94a in the opposite direction at the
the toroidal magnetic teeth93a of the cylindrical element 93, 40 third step, and the electric current is applied to the toroidal
the toroidal magnetic teeth 96a at the right side of the coil 95 of the second armature unit 94b in the predetermined
toroidal coil 95 deviate from the toroidal magnetic teeth93a direction at the fourth step. According to the above excita
by /2 pitch (face the depressions between the teeth). The tion, the cylindrical element 93 linearly moves 4 pitch by
second armature unit 94b has the same structure as the first every step to the left side, and moves one pitch by four steps.
armature unit 94a. Further, when the toroidal magnetic teeth 45 Since the armature 94 includes the permanent magnet 94c
96a of one side of the first armature unit 94a correctly face in the seventh embodiment, the magnetic flux generated on
the toroidal magnetic teeth93a of the cylindrical element 93, each toroidal magnetic tooth is higher than the sixth embodi
the toroidal magnetic teeth 96a of the second armature unit ment, which increases the torque.
94b deviate from the toroidal magnetic teeth 93a of the
cylindrical element 93 by 4 pitch (face the boundaries 50 Eighth Embodiment
between the teeth and the depressions).
Next, the movement of the motor 90 of the seventh FIG. 24 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase
embodiment will be described. The permanent magnet 94c linear stepping motor 120, and FIG. 25 is a front view of the
is magnetized so that the left side is N pole and the right side motor 120. The toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping
is Spole in FIG. 23. Therefore, when the toroidal coil 95 is 55 motor 120 of the eighth embodiment is provided with a
not excited, the toroidal magnetic teeth 96a of the first cylindrical housing 121, an axis 122 that is coaxially
armature unit 94a are magnetized in N pole, and the toroidal mounted in the housing 121, an armature 124 that is Sup
magnetic teeth 96a of the second armature unit 94b are ported by the axis 122, and a cylindrical element 123 that is
magnetized in S pole. fixed to the housing 121 around the armature 124 through an
When an electric current is applied to the toroidal coil 95 60 air gap in the radial direction.
of the first armature unit 94a in a predetermined direction, The axis 122 is inserted and fixed to a holding hole
the coil magnetic flux of N pole occurs at the left side of the formed on a bottom wall 121a of the housing 121. The
coil and the coil magnetic flux of Spole occurs at the right armature 124 can linearly move along the axis 122.
side of the coil. The three toroidal magnetic teeth96a of the The armature 124 consists of three armature units 124a,
left half of the first armature unit 94a are strongly magne 65 124b, 124c arranged in the axial direction around the axis
tized in N pole because the magnetic flux of the permanent 122, and non-magnetic substances 125a, 125b that are
magnet 94c is enhanced by the coil magnetic flux. On the arranged between the respective armature units. The arma
 US 7,242,118 B2
21 22
ture unit 124a has a toroidal coil 126 that is wound around is wound around the axial line, and a pair of armature yokes
the axial line, and a pair of armature yokes 127a and 127b 137a and 137b that are made from magnetic material to hold
that are made from magnetic material to hold the toroidal the toroidal coil 136. The other armature units 134b and
coil 126. The other armature units 124b and 124c have the 134c have the same structure as the armature unit 134a.
same structure as the armature unit 124a. Each of the Each of the armature yokes 137a and 137b has three toroidal
armature yokes 127a and 127b has three toroidal magnetic magnetic teeth 138 on its outer surface. The toroidal mag
teeth 128 on its outer surface. The toroidal magnetic teeth netic teeth 138 are projecting portions formed by alternately
128 are projecting portions formed by alternately repeating repeating projections and depressions, and they are annu
projections and depressions, and they are annularly formed larly formed along the outer Surfaces of the armature yokes
along the outer Surfaces of the armature yokes 127a and 10
137a and 137b. The toroidal magnetic teeth 138 of one
127b. The toroidal magnetic teeth 128 of one armature yoke armature yoke 137a and the toroidal magnetic teeth 138 of
127a and the toroidal magnetic teeth 128 of the other the other armature yoke 137b are magnetized in opposite
armature yoke 127b are magnetized in opposite polarities polarities when the toroidal coil 136 is excited.
when the toroidal coil 126 is excited.
The cylindrical element 123 has toroidal permanent mag 15 The cylindrical element 133 has toroidal permanent mag
nets that are alternately magnetized in N pole and Spole in nets that are alternately magnetized in N pole and Spole in
the axial direction. The arrangement of the permanent mag the axial direction. The arrangement of the permanent mag
nets is similar to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3. That nets is similar to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3. That
is, the motor of the eighth embodiment belongs to the group is, the motor of the ninth embodiment belongs to the group
(1-1) in view of the magnetic circuit and belongs to the (1-1) in view of the magnetic circuit and belongs to the
group (c) in view of the structure. group (d) in view of the structure.
A drive arm 129 fixed to the armature 124 is projected As shown in FIG. 27, a pair of through holes 131c and
from the opening of the housing 121. Further, a lead line L. 131d are formed on the bracket 131b. A drive arm 139 fixed
that supplies electricity to the toroidal coils 126 in the to the armature 134 extends through the upper through hole
armature 124 is led from the opening of the housing 121. 25 131c and a lead line L that supplies electricity to the toroidal
The driving principal of the motor 120 of the eighth coils 136 in the armature 134 is led through the lower
embodiment is identical to that of the first embodiment. through hole 131d.
Applying an electric current to the respective toroidal coils The driving principal of the motor 130 of the ninth
126 of the armature 124 by turns, the armature 124 linearly embodiment is identical to that of the first embodiment
moves along the axis 122. When an object is connected to 30 shown in FIG. 4. Applying an electric current to the respec
the drive arm 129, the object can be moved linearly. tive toroidal coils 136 of the armature 134 by turns, the
The motor of the eighth embodiment can simplifies the armature 134 linearly moves with the axis 132. When an
structure of the armature, can cancel the side pull and can object is connected to the drive arm 139 or the axis 132, the
linearly move the armature 124 smoothly along the axis 122. object can be moved linearly.
That is, the eighth embodiment has the similar effects to the 35
The motor of the ninth embodiment can simplifies the
first embodiment. structure of the armature, can cancel the side pull and can
Further, since the motor of the eighth embodiment linearly move the armature 134 smoothly with the axis 122.
arranges the armature 124 having large thickness in the That is, the eighth embodiment has the similar effects to the
radial direction at the inside and the cylindrical element 123 first embodiment. In addition, the motor of the ninth
having Small thickness in the radial direction at the outside, 40
embodiment has a larger torque than the motor of the first
the facing area between the armature and the cylindrical embodiment as well as the eighth embodiment.
element becomes larger than the motor of the first embodi Further, various variations are conceivable based on the
ment on the precondition that the outer diameter is constant. structure of the ninth embodiment. For example, the housing
Therefore, the motor of the eighth embodiment has a larger 131 and the cylindrical element 133 may linearly move
torque than the motor of the first embodiment. 45
along the fixed axis 132.
Ninth Embodiment The multi-phase linear stepping motor can be used as a
blushless linear motor by detecting relative position and/or
FIG. 26 is a sectional view of a toroidal-coil three-phase relative moving speed between the armature and the cylin
linear stepping motor 130 according to the ninth embodi 50 drical element to determine timing for exciting the toroidal
ment, and FIG. 27 is a front view of the motor 130. The coil of the next phase.
toroidal-coil three-phase linear stepping motor 130 of the The toroidal-coil linear stepping motor and the toroidal
ninth embodiment is provided with a cylindrical housing coil linear reciprocating motor of the present invention is
131, an axis 132 that is coaxially mounted in the housing also suitable to a driving source of a syringe pump as well
131, an armature 134 that is fixed to the axis 132, and a 55 as that of a compressor. Since a cylinder of a syringe pump
cylindrical element 133 that is fixed to the housing 131 is also cylindrical, the linear motor of the present invention
around the armature 134 through an air gap in the radial that has a cylindrical housing can be easily connected to a
direction. The axis 132 can linearly move with respect to the syringe pump. Particularly, since the distribution of the
housing 131. magnetic flux of the linear stepping motor using the perma
The axis 132 is supported by a pair of linear bearings 132a 60 nent magnets draws a sine wave, it is suitable to accurate
and 132a that are attached to a bottom wall 131a of the liquid pumping by microstep driving.
housing 131 and a bracket 131b that seals an opening of the Further, the toroidal-coil linear stepping motor and the
housing 131, respectively. The armature 134 consists of toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor of the present inven
three armature units 134a, 134b, 134c arranged in the axial tion can be applied to an actuator for industrial devices Such
direction around the axis 132, and non-magnetic Substances 65 as a valve controller, a welding machine and a soldering
135a, 135b that are arranged between the respective arma robot, or for a medical apparatus, an automobile and an
ture units. The armature unit 134a has a toroidal coil 136 that housing equipment.
 US 7,242,118 B2
23 24
What is claimed is: generated by the energized toroidal coil relatively
1. A toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor comprising: reciprocates one of said armature and said cylindrical
an armature having a toroidal coil and a pair of armature element along said axis with respect to said housing, or
yokes made from magnetic material to hold said tor relatively reciprocates one of said armature and said
oidal coil; cylindrical element together with said axis with respect
a cylindrical element having a magnetic structure facing to said housing.
said armature through an air gap in a radial direction, 3. A toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor comprising:
said cylindrical element enabling linear relative move an armature having a toroidal coil and a pair of armature
ment with respect to said armature in an axial direction; yokes made from magnetic material to hold said tor
an axis for Supporting one of said armature and said 10 oidal coil;
cylindrical element; and a cylindrical element having a magnetic structure facing
a housing for Supporting said axis, the other of said said armature through an air gap in a radial direction,
armature and said cylindrical element being coaxially said cylindrical element enabling linear relative move
fixed to said housing, ment with respect to said armature in an axial direction;
wherein each of said pair of armature yokes has a single 15 an axis for Supporting one of said armature and said
toroidal magnetic tooth that is formed as a projection cylindrical element; and
on the Surface facing said cylindrical element, and said a housing for Supporting said axis, the other of said
magnetic structure of said cylindrical element has two armature and said cylindrical element being coaxially
pairs of permanent magnets of Spole and N pole that fixed to said housing,
are fitted on a cylinder portion of said cylindrical wherein each of said pair of armature yokes has a single
element made from magnetic material, one pair of said toroidal magnetic tooth, and said magnetic structure of
permanent magnets can face said toroidal magnetic said cylindrical element has a pair of moving units each
tooth of one of said armature yokes and the other pair of which has a permanent magnet magnetized in Spole
of said permanent magnets can face said toroidal mag and N pole in the axial direction and a pair of magnetic
netic tooth of the other of said armature yokes, and 25 poles sandwiching said permanent magnet from both
wherein said two pairs of permanent magnets are sides in the axial direction without having small teeth
arranged so that one toroidal magnetic tooth faces N on their outer circumferences, and wherein the perma
pole of one pair of permanent magnets when the other nent magnets of said moving units are arranged so that
toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other pair of the directions of magnetizations are opposite to each
permanent magnets, and 30 other and so that one toroidal magnetic tooth faces said
wherein magnetic force acted between said armature and magnetic pole contacting N pole of one moving unit
said magnetic structure of said cylindrical element when the other toroidal magnetic tooth faces said
generated by the energized toroidal coil relatively magnetic pole contacting S pole of the other moving
reciprocates one of said armature and said cylindrical unit, and
element along said axis with respect to said housing, or 35 wherein magnetic force acted between said armature and
relatively reciprocates one of said armature and said said magnetic structure of said cylindrical element
cylindrical element together with said axis with respect generated by the energized toroidal coil relatively
to said housing. reciprocates one of said armature and said cylindrical
2. A toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor comprising: element along said axis with respect to said housing, or
an armature having a toroidal coil and a pair of armature 40 relatively reciprocates one of said armature and said
yokes made from magnetic material to hold said tor cylindrical element together with said axis with respect
oidal coil; to said housing.
a cylindrical element having a magnetic structure facing 4. The toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor according
said armature through an air gap in a radial direction, to any one of claims 1-3, wherein said cylindrical element
said cylindrical element enabling linear relative move 45 is supported by said axis, and said armature is fixed to said
ment with respect to said armature in an axial direction; housing around said cylindrical element, wherein said axis
an axis for Supporting one of said armature and said is fixed to said housing, and wherein said cylindrical element
cylindrical element; and relatively reciprocates along said axis with respect to said
a housing for Supporting said axis, the other of said housing.
armature and said cylindrical element being coaxially 50 5. The toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor according
fixed to said housing, to any one of claims 1-3, wherein said cylindrical element
wherein said magnetic structure of said cylindrical ele is supported by said axis, and said armature is fixed to said
ment has a pair of toroidal magnetic teeth without housing around said cylindrical element, wherein said axis
having permanent magnets, one of said armature yokes can reciprocate in the axial direction with respect to said
has a pair of permanent magnets of Spole and N pole 55 housing, and wherein said cylindrical element relatively
that are arranged in the axial direction and can face one reciprocates together with said axis with respect to said
of said toroidal magnetic teeth, and the other of said housing.
armature yokes has a pair of permanent magnets of S 6. The toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor according
pole and N pole that are arranged in the axial direction to any one of claims 1-3, wherein said armature is Supported
can face the other of said toroidal magnetic teeth, and 60 by said axis, and said cylindrical element is fixed to said
wherein said two pairs of permanent magnets are housing around said armature, wherein said axis is fixed to
arranged so that one toroidal magnetic tooth faces N said housing, and wherein said armature relatively recipro
pole of one pair of permanent magnets when the other cates along said axis with respect to said housing.
toroidal magnetic tooth faces Spole of the other pair of 7. The toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor according
permanent magnets, and 65 to any one of claims 1-3, wherein said armature is Supported
wherein magnetic force acted between said armature and by said axis, and said cylindrical element is fixed to said
said magnetic structure of said cylindrical element housing around said armature, wherein said axis can recip
 US 7,242,118 B2
25 26
rocate in the axial direction with respect to said housing, and cylinders in the axial direction when an electric current
wherein said armature relatively reciprocates together with is applied to said toroidal coil.
said axis with respect to said housing. 9. The cylinder compressor or pump according to claim 8.
8. A cylinder compressor or pump comprising: further comprising a pair of springs each of which is
the toroidal-coil linear reciprocating motor according to 5 arranged between said piston and said cylinder or between
one of claims 1, through 3, wherein said cylindrical said piston and a stator portion, and wherein frequency of
element is fixed to said axis so that they linearly move the applied alternating current is adjusted to resonant fre
together; quency to cause resonance of said pistons in consideration of
a pair of cylinders that are attached at both side of said spring constant of said springs and inertia of the moving
housing in the axial direction; and 10 portion.
a pair of pistons that are attached at the respective ends of
said axis so that said pistons reciprocate within said k . . . .