DESCRIPTION

The present invention concerns an electric induction generator which exploits the principle of electromagnetic induction for the production of electric energy. In particular, the generator can be a direct current or alternating current generator exhibiting a coil having a stator function and a rotor constituted by a mobile magnet with respect to the stator.

The invention can be applied in low and medium tension electric energy production plants. Current generators of the invention can be used for example in vehicles or apparatus able to induce motion on the rotor, or in numerous other applications.

The present invention further concerns a device for production of electric energy and a use of the device. The invention can also be applied, for example, to a flooring using the device.

An electric generator is a device destined to produce electric energy starting from a different form of energy, for example starting from mechanical, chemical, light or, more rarely, directly from heat energy. Electric generators exploiting the rotation of permanent magnets inside coils for the generation of direct current are of particular interest.

A first example of an electric generator with permanent magnets is described in document EP 2 272 742 A1 , which relates to a generator for vehicles, such as for example a bicycle.

A second example, described in document WO 2009/015910 A1 , concerns a generator of electric energy for a bicycle.

Document US 7,432,607 concerns an electric energy generating device which comprises a generally flat and partly flexible passage surface suitable for enabling passage of pedestrians and/or vehicles.

A further example of electric device is described in document WO 2010/016068, which relates to a device for production of electric energy which uses an external force generated by the passage of pedestrians and/or vehicles for setting a turbine in motion.

An aim of the present invention is to substantially obviate the drawbacks and limits of the preceding solutions.

A first aim of the invention to disclose a generator able to produce a high quantity of electric energy even with small mechanical stimulation or with small movements.

A further main aim of the invention is to provide a generator that is simple to build and inexpensive.

A further aim of the invention is to provide a generator which enables an easy and rapid substitution of the parts thereof, in a case of breakdown and/or during maintenance.

A further aim of the invention is to provide a generator exhibiting a simple, sturdy and compact structure. A further aim of the invention is to provide a generator that can be adapted to numerous different applications with very modest constructional modifications.

A further aim of the invention is to provide a generator that is flexible and usable in various fields and applications.

One or more of the described aims, which will more fully emerge during the course of the following description, are substantially attained by an electric generator according to one or more of the accompanying claims, taken alone or in combination, or according to one or more of the aspects indicated herein below.

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will now be described with reference to the appended figures of the drawings, provided by way of non-limiting example, in which:

> Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electric generator according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

> Figure 2 is an exploded view of the electric generator of figure 1 ;

> Figure 3 is a front view of the generator of figure 1 and 2 in an operative position of stability;

> Figure 4 is a cross section of the generator of figure 3 made along lines IV-IV;

> Figure 5 is a further cross section of the generator of figure 3 made along lines V-V;

> Figure 6 is a front view of the generator of figure 1 and 2 in an operative condition;

> Figure 7 is a cross section of the generator of figure 6 made along lines VII-VII;

> Figure 8 is a further cross section of the generator of figure 6; made along lines VIII- VIII;

> Figure 9A is a cross section of an electric generator of a known type;

> Figure 9B is a cross section of an electric generator in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

> Figure 10 is a perspective view of an electric generator according to a second embodiment in accordance with the present invention;

> The figure 11A is a section view of the electric generator according to the second embodiment arranged in a stable or maximum flow condition;

> Figure 11 B is a section view of the electric generator in accordance with the second embodiment arranged in an operating end condition;

Figure 12 is a schematic representation of the lines of a magnetic field generated by a magnet;

Figure 13 is an exploded view of a support frame according to a first embodiment;

> Figure 14 is an exploded view of a support frame according to a second embodiment;

> Figures 15A, 15B and 15C respectively show the generator in an operating position of stability, in a first operating end position of and a second operating end position; > Figure 16 shows a variant relating to a guide element in accordance with an aspect of the invention.

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a device for the production of electrical energy according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

> Figure 18 is an exploded view of the device of figure 1 taken from a different angle;

> Figure 19 is a front view of the device of figure 17 and 18;

> Figure 20 is a cross-section of the device of figure 3 made along lines IV-IV;

> Figure 21 is a further cross-section of the device of figure 19 made along lines W;

> Figure 22 is a further cross-section of the device of figure 19 made along lines VI-VI;

> Figure 23A and 23B are respectively a front view and a side view of a device for the production of electrical energy in a second embodiment;

> Figure 24 is a side view of a device for the production of electricity in a third embodiment;

> Figure 25 is a top view of a device for the production of electricity in a fourth embodiment;

> Figure 26 is a perspective view of a flooring for the production of electrical energy which uses, but is not limited to, the device for the production of electrical energy according to the first embodiment;

> Figure 27 is a cross section of the flooring for the production of electricity of figure 26;

> Figure 28 is a perspective view of a device for the production of electrical energy according to a fifth embodiment;

Figure 29 is an exploded view of the device for the production of energy of figure 28;

> Figure 30 is a cross-section of the device for the production of electricity of figure 28;

> Figure 31 is a longitudinal section of the device for the production of electric energy of figure 28;

> Figure 32 is an exploded view of an embodiment of an electric generator;

> Figure 33 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of a support frame;

> Figure 34 is an exploded view of a second embodiment of a support frame;

> Figure 35 is a schematic representation according to a front view of a magnetic element and associated magnetic bodies arranged in an operating condition of the device;

Figure 36 is a view from above of the schematic representation of figure 35;

> Figure 37 is a schematic representation according to a front view of a magnetic element and associated magnetic bodies arranged in a further operating condition of the device;

> Figure 38 is a view from above of the schematic representation of figure 36; > Figure 39 is a schematic representation in a front view of a magnetic element and associated magnetic bodies arranged in a further operating condition of the device;

> Figure 40 is a view from above of the schematic representation of figure 39.

With reference to the accompanying drawings 1 denotes an electric generator and 100 indicates in its entirety a device for the production of electricity in accordance with the present invention. In the following description reference will be made to a device comprising a plurality of electric generators 1 that use mechanical energy and convert it into electrical energy and are based on the principle of electromagnetic induction according to the principle according to which a variable magnetic field causes an induced current in a conductor.

To better clarify, the proximity of a magnet to a conductor, such as a copper wire, and a relative movement between the two causes a movement of electrons in the conductor. The conductor to which reference will be made in the following discussion is, but is not limited to, a coil 3 made of wires, for example copper, wound to form a predetermined number of loops.

The generator 1 is a device having at least one magnetic body 5 located mobile in the vicinity of at least a coil 3 to create a flow of electrons within the coil.

In order to generate this flow there must be relative movement between the magnetic body 5 and the coil 3 so that the electrons can continue to flow. To move the magnetic body 5 it is possible to use, but not limitedly, a mechanical force which moves the magnetic body 5, such as the mechanical force generated by wind or water or by mechanical means in motion.

The generator 1 can for example exploit the mechanical energy of a guide element 6 to move at least a magnetic body 5. In figures 9B, 11 A, 11 B, 15A, 15B and 15C a condition is represented in which the guide element 6 is, but not limitedly, a magnet capable of exploiting electromagnetic attraction in order to move the magnetic body 5 of the electric generator 1. The magnet of the guide element 6 can comprise a permanent magnet and/or a body of ferromagnetic or ferrous material and/or an electromagnet which is configured to move along an adjacent operating path, at least over a tract, to the magnetic body 5. The passage of the guide element 6 near the magnetic body 5 moves the magnetic body due to the magnetic attraction between the two bodies. The operating path of the guide element can define a trajectory 31 which is substantially transversal to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5, optionally wherein the trajectory 31 is substantially perpendicular to the winding axis of the loops. As can be seen from figures 11A, 11B, 15A, 15B, 15C the trajectory defines an open path, and in particular the trajectory 31 is substantially rectilinear: in this condition the guide element 6 can move in one direction, along a larger closed trajectory, not illustrated, or move to and fro, alternately. Alternatively, the trajectory 31 can be for example essentially rectilinear or curvilinear (condition not represented in the accompanying figures). In a further embodiment, also not represented in the accompanying figures, the trajectory 31 can define a closed path, in particular wherein the trajectory 31 is for example substantially circular or elliptical. In the embodiment in which the guide element 6 consists of a magnet or a body made of ferrous or ferromagnetic material, the attractive force between the guide element 6 and the magnetic body 5 depends on both the strength of the magnet and the distance between the two. In more detail, the distance between the guide element 6 and the magnetic body 5 depends on the dimensioning of the electric generator 1 , in particular the size and the characteristics of the magnetic body 5 and the guide element 6.

In a further embodiment shown in figure 16, the guide element 6 can be, but is not limited to, a body directly connected with the magnetic body 5 which is able to move the body 5 relatively to the coil 3 by means of a mechanical force. In particular figure 16 non-limitingly illustrates a condition in which the guide element 6 is a rod directly connected with the magnetic body: the movement of the rod urges and directly moves the magnetic body 5.

Alternatively, the guide element 6 can comprise a wire, a flexible element, gears (conditions not represented in the accompanying figures), or others besides. As shown in the accompanying figures, the device 100 comprises a support frame 101 configured to allow the engagement of the device 100 on external structures and also configured such as to engage a plurality of electric generators 1.

Note that the support frame 101 has a substantially rigid structure able to guarantee an excellent attachment and support to the device 100 itself.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the support frame 101 is non-limitingly configured such as to contain one or more generators 1. More in detail, the support frame defines a volume of space within which the generators are contained. In this way the support frame 101 also affords protection for the electric generators 1 contained in the volume of the support frame 1 in order to prevent corruption of the electric generators 1 which might occur during installation and/or maintenance and/or operation of the device 100.

The support frame 101 can be constituted by a single solid body or alternatively, as represented in the accompanying figures, can be constituted non-limitingly by a predetermined number of components constrained to one another. The illustrated embodiments show schematic support frames 101 consisting of a plurality of components: in this way the support frame 101 is of simple construction and adaptable to external structures on which the frame is to be engaged. In more detail, the support frame 101 includes a first constraining portion 102 adapted to cooperate with portions of constraint of the external structure on which you want to constrain the device 100 and thus allow the engagement of the device on the external structures. The first constraining portion 102 non-limitingly includes a series of holes and/or slots configured to non- limitingly engage with pins and/or screws and/or plugs and/or the like which enable positioning and the fixing of the support frame 101 on external structures.

The use of slots enables adjusting the position of the device 100 relative to the external structures, while the use of plugs enables stably extremely precisely positioning the device 100 on the external structures. The support frame 101 also includes a second retaining portion 103 configured such as to constrain the electric generators 1 of the device 100 on the support frame.

In greater detail, the second retaining portion 103 non-limitingly includes a series of holes and/or slots configured to engage, by way of non-limiting example, with pins and/or screws and/or plugs and/or the like, that allow the positioning and attachment of the electric generators 1 on said support frame 101. As for the first retaining portion 102, the use of slots enables adjusting the position of electric generators 1 relative to the support frame 101 , while the use of plugs enables stably and extremely precisey positioning the generators 1 to the frame support 101.

As previously mentioned, the device 100 comprises a plurality of electric generators 1 : in particular the accompanying figures non-limitingly illustrate embodiments having two electric generators. Alternatively a device can be provided comprising three or four or five or more electric generators. The generator 1 comprises a support structure 2 which is configured to allow engagement of the generator 1 on the support frame 101 , in particular to stationary structures with respect to the stator. Returning to the description of the generator 1 , it can be noted that it comprises a support structure 2 configured to enable engagement of the generator 1 to external structures, in particular to structures that are stationary with respect to the stator. More in detail, the support structure 2 comprises a cartridge 15 which is configured to engage at least a coil 3. A cartridge 15 is non-limitingly represented in the accompanying figures having a substantially cylindrical shape extending along a winding axis 9. The cartridge 15, as can be seen in the accompanying figures, exhibits on a lateral surface thereof an external second seating 16 able to receive the coil 3.

In greater detail, the second housing seating 16 has a cylindrical symmetry with respect to the winding axis 9, internally of which the loops of the coil 3 are wound. As regards the dimensions of the seating 16, these depend on the dimensioning of the generator 1 , in particular the size of the coil 3 (the expression "dimensions of the coil" refers to the thickness of the wire and the number of loops comprised). As can be seen from the accompanying figures, the depth of the second housing seating 16, in the direction of the radius of the cartridge 15, constrains the longitudinal extension of the coil 3 in the radial direction with respect to the cartridge 15, while as regards instead the longitudinal development of the second housing seating 16, in particular along the axis of winding 9, the depth constrains the number of loops of the coil 3. More in detail, as can be seen from the accompanying figures, the extension of the seating 16 in the winding 9 direction, in particular the extension of the coil in the winding axis 9 direction, is substantially equal to the maximum volume of the magnetic body in the direction of the winding axis 9 when the magnetic body is arranged with the poles facing the reel 3.

The cartridge 15 also comprises a first housing seating 17 extending from a first to a second end 18, 19 of the cartridge along the winding axis 9. The first housing seating 17 also has a substantially cylindrical shape non-limitingly having the axis of revolution thereof substantially coinciding with the winding axis 9.

The first housing seating 17 is configured to allow the housing of the magnetic body 5 inside the cartridge 15 and therefore allow the arrangement of said magnetic body 5 internally of the loops of the coil 3. The dimensions of the first housing seating 7 are calculated in relation to the size of the magnetic body 5.

In particular, the first housing seating 17 must be allow both the housing and the at least partial movement of the magnetic body 5 nearingly and distancingly with respect to the coil 3. In greater detail, the cartridge 15 comprises a constraining element 20 constrained inside the first housing seating 17. In particular, the coupling element 20 comprises a first arm 32 extending along the winding axis 9 and which engages internally of a first seating 34 arranged on the inner surface of the cavity 17 and which also extends 9 along the winding axis of the loops.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the first arm 32 and the respective first seating 34 extend over the entire length of the cartridge 15. The constraining element 20 also comprises a second arm 33 which is substantially opposite the first arm 32 with respect to the winding axis 9. As with the first arm 32, the second arm 33 extends along the winding axis 9 and engages internally of a second seating 35 arranged on the internal surface of the first housing seating 17 and which also extends along the winding axis 9. The second arm 33 and the respective second seating 35 also extend along the entire length of the cartridge 15. The first and the second arm 32, 33 comprise an engagement portion 21 non-limitingly arranged substantially on the centre line thereof with respect to the longitudinal development thereof.

The engaging portion 21 is configured such as to constrain the magnetic body 5 internally of the first housing seating 17 and then inside the loops of the coil 3. In more detail, the generator 1 comprises a support frame 11 suitable for engaging the magnetic body 5 inside the first housing seating 17. The support frame 11 , which will be better described below, comprises an engaging portion 22 able to cooperate with the engaging portion 21 of the constraining element 20 in order to non-limitingly define a hinge-type constraint between the portions: in this way, the magnetic body 5 can rotate relative to the coil 3 and allow the generation of induced current in the coil. In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the engaging portions 21 , 22, respectively of the constraining element 20 and the support frame 11 , can define a carriage- or skate-type constraint (not represented in the accompanying figures) so that the magnetic body 5 can respectively move by sliding and rotation or only by sliding towards and away from the coil 3. The accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment in which the engaging portion 21 of the constraining element 20 is a pin while the engaging portion of the magnetic body 5 is a circular seating suitable for receiving the pin such as to define a hinge-type constraint between the constraining element 20 and the magnetic body 5. The engagement portion 21 of the constraining element 20 can alternately be a sphere, in particular a sphere made of ferrous or ferromagnetic material, suitable for engaging with the respective engaging portion 22 having a substantially spherical shape. In a further alternative, the constraining element 20 can include a seating having a substantially cylindrical or spherical shape which is configured such as to accommodate the engaging portion 22 of the magnetic body 5 defined substantially by a pin. As previously mentioned, the first and second arms 32, 33 extend along the entire length of the cartridge 15, in particular terminating respectively at the first and second ends 18, 19 of the cartridge 15. As shown in the accompanying figures, the constraining element 20 comprises a fastening portion 23 non-limitingly emerging from the first end 18 of the cartridge 15 and which connects the first and the second arm 32, 33 so as to form a single body. The fastening portion 23 of the securing element 20 is configured to enable constraining the generator 1 to the second portion 103 of the support frame 101 or to external structures.

In greater detail, the fastening portion 23 substantially exhibits a plate shape having a thickness sufficient to support the electric generator 1. The fastening portion 23 includes, but is not limited to, a plurality of through holes 23rd which allow the passage of threaded screws for constraining the electric generator to external structures. As shown in the accompanying figures, the holes of the fastening portion 23 are arranged at the slots of the second constraining portion 103. Fastening portions 23 and slots of the second constraining portion 103 enable passage and engagement of the threaded screws which guarantee the fastening of the generators on the support frame 101. The slots of the second constraining portion 103 enable adjusting the position of the generator with respect to the support frame 101.

The coupling element 20 also comprises an anti-rotation portion 25 arranged on the opposite side to the fastening portion 23 relative to the first and second arms 32, 33, in particular emerging from the second end 19 of the cartridge 15. The anti-rotation portion 25 is configured such as to engage the cartridge 15 and prevent the constraining element 20 from rotating relative to the cartridge 15.

In greater detail, the anti-rotation portion 25 comprises at least an arm 26 connected to one of the first and second arms 32, 33 and extending transversally, in particular perpendicularly, with respect to the winding axis 9. The arm 26 engages internally of a respective seating 27 to the cartridge 15 which constrains the arm 26 preventing the constraining element 20 from rotating relative to the cartridge 15.

The accompanying figures non-limitingly illustrate a condition in which an arm 26 emerges from each of said first and second arms 32, 33, which arm 26 engages internally of a seating 27. The seating 27 extends perpendicularly to the winding axis 9 over the entire radial extension of the cartridge 15 (as visible in figure 2). Alternatively, the seating 27 can extend over for a portion of the radial extension of the cartridge (a condition not represented in the accompanying figures). More specifically, the seating 27 can include, but is not limited to, one or more undercuts 36 extending substantially parallel to the winding axis 9 and configured such as to engage relative projections 37 arranged on the arm 26 and extending transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the arm 26 and extending towards the fastening portion 23 of the constraining element 20. The cooperation between the undercut 36 on the cartridge 15 and the projection 37 enables the arm 26 to provide support to the first and second arms 32, 33 essentially preventing the arms 32, 33 from moving towards the winding axis 9.

The accompanying figures non-limitingly illustrate a preferred embodiment in which the seating 27 extends over the entire radial extension of the cartridge 15 and the undercut 36 is arranged substantially at the most external part of the seating 27. Consequently, the arm 26 extends over the entire radial extension of the cartridge 15 and the protrusion 37 is arranged on an end of the arm 26 at the radially most external part of the cartridge 15. As previously mentioned, the cartridge 15, in particular the constraining element 20, engages the magnetic body 5 which is arranged inside the first housing seating 17. The magnetic body 5 is a body capable of generating a magnetic field and has a magnetic north pole N and a south pole S. The magnetic body 5 can be substantially constituted by a permanent magnet and/or an electromagnet and/or another type of magnet suitable for the purpose. In the preferred embodiment the magnetic body 5 comprises a permanent magnet. In order to allow the generation of induced current in the coil 3, the magnetic body 5 must vary its position with respect thereto.

In the illustrated embodiments, the magnetic body 5 is rotatably movable about an axis of rotation 8 substantially perpendicular to the south-north direction of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic body 5 and/or lines of magnetic field inside the magnetic body 5. In more detail, the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5 is transversal, in particular perpendicular, to the winding axis 9 of the coil 3.

As shown by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying figures, the rotation axis 8 intersects the winding axis 9 of the coil 3: in this way the magnetic body 5 is arranged at the centre of the loops, which enables varying the flow of the magnetic field in the coil equally on opposite sides thereof with the same intensity. In geometric terms, the magnetic body 5 can exhibit a three-dimensional shape having a dimension, in particular the thickness, smaller than the other two dimensions, in particular width and length. As shown in the accompanying figures, the north pole N and south pole S of the magnetic body 5 are arranged on the faces defining the width and the length of magnetic body 5. The magnetic body 5 has a substantially cylindrical shape in which the poles are arranged at the base faces of the cylinder, the cylinder having, as previously mentioned, a smaller thickness than the other two dimensions. Alternatively, the magnetic body 5 can exhibit a parallelepiped shape, or spherical, or of another type suitable for the purpose (not represented in the accompanying figures).

The electric generator 1 can include a support frame 11 configured such as to allow the positioning and the constraint of the magnetic body 5 inside the coil 3. In more detail, the support frame 11 enables relative rotation between the coil 3 and the magnetic body 5. The supporting frame 11 further enables positioning and mounting the magnetic body 5 on the support structure 2, and in particular said supporting frame 11 is coupled, preferably in a removable manner, to the magnetic body 5.

As can be seen from the accompanying figures, the support frame 11 comprises a first and a second containing element 13, 14 arranged respectively at the north N and south S poles of the magnetic body 5: these containing elements are at least partially complementarily-shaped to the magnetic body 5 so as substantially to define a housing seating 38 internally of which the magnetic body 5 is arranged.

Figures 13 (or 33) and 14 (or 34) non-limitingly illustrate two preferred configurations of the support frame 11. In a first embodiment shown in figure 13, the first and the second containing elements 13, 14 are configured such as to engage the magnetic body 5 by magnetic attraction exerted on the support frame 11 by the magnetic body 5 itself and/or in which at least a part of the support frame 11 is made of ferromagnetic or ferrous material and/or is configured to undergo a magnetic induction from the magnetic body 5: in this way the magnetic body 5 enables bringing the first and second containing element 13, 14 into contact by magnetic attraction. The attractive force generated by the magnetic body 5 on the first and second containing elements 13, 14 ensures the constraining of the magnetic body 5 in the housing seating 38 but at the same time provides a constraint of the reversible type. The magnetic attraction of the magnetic body is such as to ensure a proper constraint thereof during the operating condition while at the same time enabling easy and rapid separation during de- assembly.

More in detail, figure 13 is an exploded view of a support frame 11 used in the embodiment of the described electric generator 1. The first and the second containing elements 13, 14 have a substantially plate shape. More in detail, the first containing element 13 has, but is not limited to, a face 13a in contact with the north pole N of the magnetic body 5 while the second containing element 14 has (non-limitingly) a face 14a in contact with the south pole S: the faces are substantially flat so as to be able to take full advantage of the attractive force of the magnetic body 5. The first and the second containing elements 13, 14 further comprise respectively at least a lateral blocking element 13b, 14b extending transversally, in particular perpendicularly, with respect to the respective faces in contact with the magnetic body 5 and both directed towards each other. Even more in detail, the first and the second containing element 13, 14, in particular the faces thereof, exhibit a substantially plate shape which is substantially circular. The faces of the first and second containing element 13, 14 have substantially the same dimensions as the magnetic body 5, and in particular the diameter of the faces is substantially identical to the diameter of the magnetic body 5. A plurality of lateral blocking elements extend transversally from the radial ends of these faces, in particular perpendicularly. Figure 13 illustrates a preferred embodiment in which the support frame 11 non-limitingly exhibits four blocking elements facing two by two with respect to the surface of the containing element.

The support frame 11 further comprises a third containing element or ring 12 engaged to the magnetic body 5 and arranged at the thickness thereof. In particular, the third containing element 12 at least partially surrounds the magnetic body 5 at the thickness thereof. The third containing element 12 may have a hollow substantially circular shape at least partially complementarily shaped to the magnetic body 5: in fact the third containing element can be a ring arranged on the thickness of said magnetic body at the centre-line thereof. Structurally, the third containing element 12 comprises, on the external radial surface, the previously-introduced engaging portion 22 able to engage the engaging portion 21 of the constraining element 20. In more detail, the ring 12 comprises a first seating suitable for abutting an engaging portion of the first arm 32 and a second seating, opposite the first seating, which abuts an engaging portion of the second arm 33. In the accompanying figures, a preferred embodiment is non- limitingly illustrated, in which the engaging portions of the first and second arm are projections, in particular pins, which respectively abut the first and second seating. The containing elements 13, 14 are configured such as to block the third housing element 12 or ring on the thickness of the magnetic body 5 and centre the ring 12 substantially on the centre line of the thickness of the magnetic body 5. In particular, the lateral blocking elements 13b, 14b, which extend perpendicularly with respect to the faces, are in contact with the third containing element 12. In still more detail, the blocking elements extend from the face of the magnetic body 5 up to contacting the ring 12. The attractive force of the magnetic body 5 on the first and on the second containing element 13, 14 enables the containing elements 13, 14 to block the movement of the ring 12. In the illustrated embodiment in which the magnetic body has a substantially cylindrical shape, the first and the second containing element 13, 14 prevent the ring 12 from sliding along the axis of revolution of the magnetic body 5. To enable the blocking ring 12 on the centre-line of the thickness of the magnetic body 5, the lateral blocking elements of the first and the second containing element 13, 14 extend, in a perpendicular direction from the respective contact faces of the magnetic body, by the same amount. In other words, the first and the second blocking elements 13b, 14b have the same extension in a perpendicular direction from the respective contact faces of the magnetic body 5: it is thus possible to keep the ring 12 centred on the magnetic body.

In a further embodiment illustrated in figure 14, the first and second containing elements 13, 14 are mutually coupled by a coupling of the mechanical type. In particular, figure 14 illustrates a coupling performed with threaded screws. Alternatively, the first and second containing element 13, 14 can for example be coupled by a bayonet coupling, directly or by interposing of a third containing element. In the last condition described the first and the second elements 13, 14, in particular the faces thereof, can exhibit a substantially plate shape non-limitingly exhibiting a substantially rectangular shape. In the last-described embodiment only a portion of faces 13a, 14a of the first and second containing element 13, 14 is in contact with the poles of the magnetic body 5. The faces are larger than the magnetic body 5, in particular the faces 13a and 14a of first and second containing element 13, 14 emerge in the longitudinal direction from the faces of the magnetic body 5. In this case the lateral blocking elements emerge transversally, in particular perpendicularly, from the faces of the first and second containing element, in particular emerging from internal portions of the profile of the faces.

Figure 14 illustrates a preferred embodiment in which the support frame 11 non-limitingly exhibits three blocking elements 14b which are evenly offset with respect to the lateral profile of the external magnetic body 5. As can be seen from figure 14, the longitudinal ends of the faces 13a, 14a of the first and second containing elements 13, 14 respectively exhibit end portions 40 extending transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the faces. The end portions 40 include said engaging portions 22 which abut the engaging portions 21 of the constraining element 20. As can be seen from figure 14, the engagement portions are holes suitable for abutting with respective pins of the engagement portions 21 of the constraining element 20. Alternatively, as previously described, the engaging portions 22 of the support frame 11 may comprise a pin suitable for coupling to a respective seating of the engaging portion 21 of the constraining element 20. The end portions 40 define the mechanical constraint between the first and the second containing element 13, 14.

These types of assembly mean that any machining operations to be performed on the magnet can be eliminated and ensure during dismantling a quick and easy separation of the support frame 11 from the magnetic body 5: in this way it is possible to reduce times and costs of processing, assembly/disassembly and repair/replacement of components. Returning to the description of the generator 1 , the generator can further comprise at least an auxiliary element 28.

As shown in the accompanying figures the auxiliary element 28 non-limitingly exhibits a substantially elongate shape having at an end thereof a first engaging portion 30 and at the opposite end thereof a second engaging portion 39. In greater detail, the auxiliary element 28 can be a pin suitable for engaging with the support frame 11, in particular the third containing element 12. The first engagement portion 30 is, purely by way of example, a threaded portion, that can abut on a respective seating 29 of the third containing element 12 which includes, but is not limited to, a threaded hole that can abut the threaded portion of the auxiliary element 28. As previously mentioned, the second engaging portion 39 is arranged on the opposite side to the first engaging portion 30 of the auxiliary element 28. As shown in the accompanying figures, the auxiliary element 28 emerges from the third containing element transversally, in particular perpendicularly with respect to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body. The auxiliary element 28 is configured such as to cooperate with the guide element 6 and enable the movement of the magnetic body 5 and/or is configured to limit the movement, in particular the rotation of the magnetic body 5. More in detail, if the auxiliary element 28 is to be used for moving the magnetic body 5, the second engagement portion 39 can be engaged to the guide element 6 so as to transmit the movement of the guide element 6 directly to the magnetic body 5 (condition shown in figure 16). If the guide element 6 enables movement of the magnetic body 5 by means of magnetic attraction, it is possible to realize at least a portion of the auxiliary element 28, in particular the second engaging portion 39 of the auxiliary element 28, made of ferrous and/or ferromagnetic material: in this way, to the force of magnetic attraction between the magnetic body 5 and the guide element 6 can be added a force of magnetic attraction between the guide element 6 and the auxiliary element 28. This condition described is shown in figures 11 A, 11 B, 15B and 15C.

The auxiliary element 28 can also be used to limit the movement of the magnetic body 5. In this case, illustrated for example in figure 11 B, the auxiliary element 28 emerges from the supporting frame 11 , in particular from the third containment element 12, perpendicularly to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5: in this way the auxiliary element 28 is configured so as during rotation to contact a surface of the cartridge and limit the rotation of the magnetic body 5. The limit on the rotation of the magnetic body 5 imparted by the auxiliary element 28 depends substantially on the projection thereof, in particular on the projection and therefore on the extension of the pivot, with respect to the third containment element 12. In fact, in a variant, the pin can project from the third containing element 12 by a quantity equal to or greater than the distance between the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5 and the perimeter of the first housing seating 17 at one of the two ends of the cartridge 15. In this condition the end edges of the first receptacle 17 can be used to limit the rotation of the magnetic body 5.

Alternatively, by causing the pin to project from the third containing element 12 by less than the distance between the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5 and the perimeter of the first housing seating 17 at one of the two ends of the cartridge 15, the internal surface of the first seating 17 can be used for limiting the rotation of the magnetic body 5. Quantitatively, the auxiliary element 28 enables limiting the rotation of the magnetic body 5 with respect to a starting condition corresponding to 0° in which the poles are substantially facing the coil (as shown in figure 15A), up to a value of lower at 90°, in particular less than 80°, even more in particular less than 70°. The auxiliary element 28 is configured such as to limit the movement, in particular the rotation, of the magnetic body 5. The auxiliary element 28 can also be configured to enable movement of the magnetic body 5: this will be more fully described in the following. As described above, the movement of the magnetic body 5 with respect to the coil 3 can be imparted by a guide element 6. This guide element 6 is mobile relative to the magnetic body 5 and configured such as to move the body 5 to define an operating condition. The operating condition is the condition in which the magnetic body 5 moves relatively to the coil 5 enabling a variation of the magnetic field flow generated by the magnetic body 5 itself with consequent generation of induced current in the coil 3.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the electric generator 1 can further comprise a positioning element 7 which is able to cooperate with the magnetic body 5 and is configured so as to determine at least a stable first operating position or a position of maximum flow of the magnetic body 5 through the coil, in which position the magnetic body 5 is substantially stationary relative to the coil 3. The position of stability generated by the positioning element 7 arranges the magnetic body 5 in the first operating position with at least a pole substantially facing the coil 3.

In particular, in the first operating position the flow of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic body 5 through the coil 3 assumes a maximum absolute value compared to the remaining operating positions. The operating position of stability or the position of maximum flow of the magnetic body 5 is represented in figures 1 , 3, 5, 9B and 11 A. The positioning element 7 is distanced from the magnetic body 5, in particular is arranged externally of the loops of the coil 3. The positioning element 7 is, but not limited to, constrained to the outside of the coil 3 so as to remain substantially stationary in relation to the support structure 2, in particular stationary in relation to the cartridge 15.

Similarly as for the guide element 6, the distance of the positioning element 7 from the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5 depends on the size of the electric generator, in particular the size and the physical characteristics of the magnetic body 5 and of the positioning element. In terms of material used, the positioning element 7 can be at least partially made of a ferrous or ferromagnetic material, capable of being magnetized by magnetic induction by the magnetic body 5 and consequently influencing the magnetic body 5, due to the magnetic field generated by the body 5.

Alternatively, the positioning element 7 can be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet suitably arranged and configured. As shown in the accompanying figures, the positioning element 7 can be a substantially plate-shaped body extending along a main development plane and being arranged in such a way that the main development plane is substantially perpendicular to the winding axis of the coils 9. In the accompanying figures a positioning element 7 is represented having a discoid shape. Alternatively, the positioning element 7 can exhibit, for example, a parallelepiped shape or other shape suitable for the purpose. In greater detail, it can be observed that the positioning element 7 preferably has an opening 10, in particular a through-opening, extending along the winding axis of the coils 9. The opening 10 can have a substantially symmetrical shape with respect to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5: this opening enables the magnetic body 5 to be positioned in the stable operating position.

In further detail, the magnetic field generated in the magnetic body 5 influences the positioning element 7 which is attracted by the magnetic body 5. The positioning element 7 is, however, fixed relative to the support structure 2, and thus forces the movement of the magnetic body 5. In particular, it is the profile of the opening 10 that determines the desired positioning of the magnetic body 5. Geometrically, the opening 10 can exhibit a closed profile having a substantially circular shape (as shown in the accompanying figures), in particular in which the centre of the outline coincides with the winding axis of the coils 9. Alternatively, the opening 10 can exhibit an open profile still exhibiting a symmetry with respect to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5.

Quantitatively, the size of the magnetic body 5 can be related to the opening 10 of the positioning element 7. In particular, the magnetic body 5 has, according to a perpendicular plane to the winding axis of the coils 9, a size that varies with the position of the magnetic body 5. The maximum overall dimensions of the magnetic body 5 along the perpendicular plane to the winding axis of the coils 9 is preferably equal to or smaller than the minimum size of the passage opening 10, again measured along a perpendicular plane to the winding axis of the coils 9.

In particular the ratio between the smallest size of the opening 10 of the positioning element 7 and the maximum overall dimensions of the magnetic body 5, measured along a perpendicular plane to the winding axis of the loops, is greater than 1 , or preferably 1.2 to or preferably 1.5, or preferably 3. In this way, the opening 10 enables defining the first stable operating position and also a second stable operating position in which, as for the first operating position, the magnetic body 5 is substantially stationary relative to the coil 3.

The second stable operating position is substantially rotated by 180° from the first operating position with respect to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic body 5. The device 100 further comprises a guide element 6 configured such as to define an activating condition in which, subsequent to an urging of the guide element 6 by means of an external force F, the guide element 6 moves in relation to the support frame 101. The nature of the external force F will be more fully clarified in the following. The movement of the guide element 6 enables moving, in the activation condition thereof, the magnetic bodies 5 of the electric generators 1 of the device 100 in relation to the support frame 101. More in detail, the guide element 6 has a first portion 6a configured such as to engage movably to the support frame 101.

In particular, the support frame 101 has at least an engaging portion able to cooperate with a corresponding engagement portion of the guide element 6 and define there-with a skate-type constraint: this constraint allows the first portion 6a to slide along an application direction 45. In the embodiment represented in the accompanying figures, the first portion 6a is non-limitingly a a substantially "C" shaped bracket. The bracket comprises a first and a second portion 46, 47 substantially parallel and connected together by a transversal connecting portion 48, in particular perpendicular to the first and second portions 46, 47. The first and second portions 46, 47 respectively engage in engaging portions of the support frame 101 , defining therewith the skate constraint, while the connecting portion 48 exhibits the portion destined to receive the external force F.

The guide element 6 further comprises at least a transmission element 44 rigidly connected to the first portion 6a of the guide 6 thereof, in particular rigidly connected to the connecting portion 48 of the first portion 6a. As shown in the accompanying figures, the transmission element 44 includes, but is not limited to, two pins connected at a first end 49 to the connecting portion 48 of the first portion 6a. Alternatively, the guide element 6 can comprise a rope, a flexible element, gears (not represented in the accompanying figures), or others besides. To better understand the movement of the guide element 6, it can be said during that the operating condition the guide element 6 is configured to move from a starting position to a plurality of operating positions. The guide element 6 comprises a positioning element 43 configured such as to have the guide element 6, subsequent to the activating condition, in the starting position, in particular wherein the positioning element 43 is configured so as to position the element guiding means 6 to the starting position after the action of the external force F.

The positioning element 43 is substantially an element able to return the guide element 6, in particular the first portion 6a of the guide element 6, into a position in which it can receive the urges impressed by the external force F. In the accompanying figures the positioning element 43 comprises a spring. Alternatively, in further embodiments not represented in the accompanying figures, the positioning element 43 can comprise an elastic element able to return the positioning element from the various operational conditions to the starting condition. The positioning element 43 is engaged to the first portion 6a of the guide element 6 and the support frame 101. More in detail, the positioning element 43 is engaged to at least a transmission element 44 and interposed between the first portion 6a and the support frame 101. In the described condition, the positioning element or spring 43, after the application of an external force F compressing the spring and which enables guiding the guide element 6 in one or more operating positions, will tend to return to a condition of extension, in particular coinciding with the starting condition of the guide element 6. Quantitatively the operating run of the guide member 6 or of the second portion 6b or of the transmission member 44, along the application direction 45 can be less than 100mm or less than 70mm, in particular less than 50mm or 30mm, even more in particular less than 20mm or 10mm. In some applications, for example in the use of the device 100 beneath a flooring, the run of the transmission member 44, or the connecting portion 48, can be for example less than.10 mm, in particular less than 7 mm, even more in particular less than 5 or 3 mm.

As previously mentioned, the guide element 6 also comprises a second portion 6b configured to move at least a magnetic body 5 of the device 100. The second portion 6b is engaged to the transmission element 44, in particular as can be seen from the accompanying figures, the second portion 6b is engaged to a second end 50 of the transmission element 44 opposite the first end 49 thereof. Thanks to the connection of the first and second portions 6a, 6b via the transmission element 44, the second portion 6b can be moved by moving the first portion 6a. As mentioned, the movement of the guide element 6, and thus of the second portion 6b, is permitted by mechanical urging impressed by the external force F on the guide element 6. Instead, as regards the movement of the magnetic bodies of the device 100, a plurality of combinations are possible, in particular, as non-limitingly described in the following, two different embodiments; a first embodiment that utilizes magnetic energy and a second embodiment that uses mechanical energy.

In detail, in the first embodiment, shown for example in figures 1 to 6 (or 17 to 22), the guide element 6 is capable of exploiting the electromagnetic interaction to move at least a magnetic body 5 of the device 100. In this case, the second portion 6b of the guide element 6 can comprise a permanent magnet and/or a body of ferromagnetic or ferrous material and/or an electromagnet which is configured to move relative to the support frame 101 , particularly with respect to the support structure 2 of at least a generator 1.

In the first embodiment, by way of non-limiting example, the second portion 6b is constrained to the support frame 101 of the device 100 by means of the above-described frame 11 and used to arrange the magnetic body 5 of the generator 1 to the inside thereof. In particular, as can be observed in the exploded view of figure 18, the portions 40 of the end frame 11 are configured to engage with respective engaging portions of the support frame 101.

As can be seen from figure 18, each of the end portions 40 comprises at least a pin suitable for engaging in respective seatings of the support frame 101.

Figures 17 to 22 illustrate a condition in which the second portion 6b moves relatively to the support frame 101 in a rotary motion. In particular, the second portion 6b comprises a magnetic element 41 distanced by at least a magnetic body 5 which rotates about an axis 42 substantially perpendicular to the south-north direction of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 41 itself and/or lines of the magnetic field inside the magnetic element 41.

Figures 17 to 22 and 35 to 40 non-limitingly illustrate a preferred embodiment of the device 100 in which the magnetic element 41 is interposed between two magnetic bodies of the device 00. As can be seen from the schematic illustration of figures 35 and 36, the magnetic element 41 is distanced from the two magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 respectively by a first and second distance M1 , M2: these distances enable managing the magnetic interaction between the magnetic element 41 and the magnetic bodies 5. In particular, in the accompanying a condition figures is illustrated in which the first distance M1 is substantially identical to the second distance M2. Alternatively, the magnetic bodies can be arranged at different distances from the magnetic element 41. As can be seen from figure 36, the centre of rotation of the magnetic element 41 is distanced by a distance Z from the respective rotation axes 8 of the magnetic bodies. This distance Z is greater than 1 mm, in particular greater than 2 mm, even more in particular greater than 3 mm.

The magnetic element 41 comprises a reference position in which it has at least one pole pointing along a substantially parallel direction to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic bodies 5 (see figure 6 or 22). The axis 42 is non-limitingly substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis 8 of at least one magnetic body 5, in particular perpendicular to the rotation axis 8 of all the magnetic bodies 5 of the device.

In the above-described case it is necessary, in order to allow the rotation of the magnetic element 41 , that the second end 47 of the transmission element 44 engages to the magnetic element 41 so that the point of application of the external force F on the magnetic element 41 is offset with respect to the axis 42 of the magnetic element with respect to the direction of application 45; in this way, by shifting the transmission element 44 along the direction of application, the magnetic element 1 can be rotated.

In more detail, it can be observed that the transmission element 44 is mobile along a direction D perpendicular to the rotation axis 42 of the magnetic element 41. This direction is, as previously mentioned, offset with respect to the axis 42 such as to allow rotation of the magnetic element 41. Depending on the distance between the direction D of application of the force F and the rotation axis 42 of the magnetic element it is, importantly, possible to vary the rotation angle thereof. In this way small displacements of the transmission element 44 can generate large rotations of the magnetic element 41.

Even more in detail, it is possible to note that the magnetic element 41 is configured to rotate about the axis 42 and define an operating stroke the development of which is between a first and a second end operating position which comprise the reference position of the magnetic element 41 : the reference position is interposed between the first and second end operating positions. In particular, the first operating position of the ends and the reference position define an angle a of less than 25°, in particular less than 18°, even more in particular less than 15°. The second end operating position and the reference position define an angle β of less than 25°, in particular less than 18°, even more in particular less than 15°. In the operating condition represented in figure 22, the magnetic element 41 is configured to define an angle a and β, substantially identical.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown in the accompanying figures, the magnetic element 41 can define an angle a different to angle β. Independently of the angles, the magnetic element 41 rotates about the axis 42 by an angle Ω that can be less than 50° or 45°, in particular less than 40° or 35°, and still more particularly less than 30° or 28°. As previously described, the operating run of the magnetic element 41 depends on the point of application of the transmission member 44, in particular on the distance of the direction D of the transmission element 44 from the axis 42. In particular, the distance D of the transmission member 44 may be between 12 mm and 9 mm, even more in particular between 9 mm and 6 mm, even more in particular between 6 and 3. In this way the angular travel of the magnetic element 41 can be varied within the ranges given above. By way of example and therefore not limiting, by arranging the direction D at a distance of 6 mm from the axis 42 it is possible to obtain a vertical displacement of the point of application of about 3 mm, with a rotation of the magnetic element 41 of about 29°. By reducing the distance of the direction D from the axis 42, it is possible to obtain the same rotation of the magnetic element 41 with a smaller vertical displacement of the point of application of the force F.

During the movement of the magnetic element 41 along said operating stroke, the magnetic element 41 interacts, in terms of magnetic interaction, with at least a magnetic body 5 of the device 100 with the aim of enabling the movement of said magnetic body 5. Note that the magnetic element 41 in the operative positions of the ends can develop maximum magnetic interaction with at least a magnetic body 5 of the device 100 with respect to positions of the operating run between the end operating positions. For this case the end operating positions can be defined as the limit positions of maximum interaction with at least one magnetic body 5 of the device 100.

Figures 35 and 36 non-limitingly represent an intermediate operating condition between the end operating conditions.

Figures 37 and 38 illustrate the positions of the magnetic bodies 5 with respect to the magnetic element 41. In particular, figures 37 and 38 illustrate the magnetic element 41 in the first end operating position. Figures 39 and 40 instead illustrate the magnetic element 41 in the second end operating condition. It can be seen that the passage of the magnetic element 41 from the first to the second end operating position enables the magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 to be rotated about their own angle 8 substantially by an angle of 180°. In this way, with a limited rotation of the magnetic element 41 the magnetic elements 5 can be rotated so that the poles thereof can pass completely through the starting condition of the magnetic bodies 5 with a maximum variation of the magnetic field flow internally of the respective reels 3. Of interest is the fact that small displacements of the transmission member 44 enable the magnetic bodies to rotate substantially by an angle of substantially 180°, passing from the starting condition of the magnetic bodies and then generating a high variation of the magnetic field flow internally of the coils 3 and thereby high generation of induced current within the coils 3.

It should also be noted that, thanks to the special conformations described in this text the movement of the magnets set in rotation takes place with a "clicking" movement and/or by moving quickly from one equilibrium position to the other, thus maximizing the production of energy. In an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment, and. still with reference to the movement of the magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 by means of magnetic attraction between the guide element 6 and at least a magnetic body 5, the guide element 6 moves along a predetermined operating path adjacent to at least one magnetic body 5.

The passage of the guide element 6 at the magnetic body 5 moves the magnetic body 5 because of the magnetic attraction between the two bodies. The operating path of the guide element can define a trajectory 31 which is substantially transversal to the rotation axis 8 of at least one magnetic body 5, optionally wherein the trajectory 31 is substantially perpendicular to the winding axis 9 of the loops. Figures 23A, 23B, 24 and 25 illustrate some embodiments in which the guide element 6 moves along the trajectory 31.

As can be seen, the trajectory 31 defines an open path, in particular in which the trajectory 31 is substantially rectilinear: in this condition the guide element 6 can move in one direction, along a wider closed trajectory (not illustrated), or move to back and forth, alternatingly. Alternatively, the trajectory 31 can be for example essentially rectilinear or curvilinear (condition not represented in the accompanying figures). In a further embodiment, also not represented in the accompanying figures, the trajectory 31 can define a closed path, in particular wherein the trajectory 31 is for example substantially circular or elliptical. In the embodiment in which the guide element 6 consists of a magnet or a body made of ferrous or ferromagnetic material, the attractive force between the guide element 6 and the magnetic body 5 depends on both the strength of the magnet and on the distance between the two.

In more detail, the distance between the guide element 6 and the magnetic body 5 depends on the dimensioning of the device, in particular of the electric generator 1 , even more in particular on the size and the characteristics of the magnetic body 5 and of the guide element 6. As previously mentioned, the device 100 comprises a plurality of magnetic bodies 5. In the accompanying figures 17 to 25 a condition of the first embodiment is illustrated in which the guide element 6 enables the moving of all the magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100. In particular, the guide member 6 is arranged in the vicinity of all the magnetic bodies of the device 100 in such a way that the magnetic energy of the guide element 6 can move the magnetic bodies 5. Figures 17 to 22 show, by way of non-limiting example, an embodiment in which the guide member 6 is interposed between two electric generators 1. Figures 23A to 25 show, on the other hand, an embodiment in which the guide element passes at two generators 1.

Still considering the first embodiment in which the guide element 6 uses magnetic energy for the movement of the magnetic bodies 5, a device 100 can be realised in which the guide element 6 is configured to move only a first magnetic body 5 of the device 100. In the last case the magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 are distanced from one another and configured to cooperate with one another through the magnetic field generated thereby. In particular, a magnetic body 5 is configured for moving, by means of a magnetic force, at least a second magnetic body 5, substantially adjacent: the movement of a magnetic body 5, via magnetic energy of the guide element 6 during the activation condition, enables moving the remaining magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 by means of the magnetic force of the magnetic body 5. As regards the second embodiment, it comprise movement of at least a first magnetic body 5 by means of mechanical energy. In this case, the guide member 6 has a second portion 6b configured to transmit mechanically, during the activation condition of the guide element 6, the external force F on the magnetic body 5 to enable the movement thereof.

In still more detail, the guide element 6 is directly connected to a first magnetic body 5 of the device: in this condition the movement of the guide element 6 enables direct management of the magnetic body to which this guide element 6 is connected .

Figures 28, 29, 30 and 31 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the guide element 6, which exhibits, by way of non-limiting example, substantially a "C"-shape having a first and a second end portion 51 , 52 substantially parallel to one another and which are connected by means of a connecting portion 53. The first and the second end portion 51 , 52 are connected to respective engaging portions of the support frame 101 , in particular where the cooperation between the first and the second end portions 51, 52 of the guide element 6 and the engaging portions and the support frame define a hinge-type constraint of the guide element 6: this constraint enables the guide element 6 to rotate about an axis 54 substantially parallel to the rotation axis 8 of the magnetic bodies 5.

In particular, in the embodiment illustrated in figures 30 and 31 , the axis 54 substantially coincides with the rotation axis 8 of a magnetic body 5 of the device 100. Still more in particular, as visible in the accompanying figures, the first and the second end portions comprise a pin able to cooperate with respective seatings of the support frame 101. As can be seen for example in the section view of figure 31, the connecting portion 53 is directly connected to a magnetic body 5. In a preferred embodiment visible in figure 15 and 31 , the magnetic body 5 comprises at least an auxiliary element 28 which emerges from the first housing seating 17. More in detail, if the auxiliary element 28 is to be used for moving the magnetic body 5, it is possible to engage the second engaging portion 39 to the guide element 6, in particular to the connecting portion 53 of the guide element 6, so as to transmit the movement of the guide element 6 directly to the magnetic body 5 (condition shown in figure 31). The movement of the magnetic bodies 5 not connected to the guide element 6 is guaranteed by the magnetic energy between the magnetic bodies 5. To better understand this condition, it can be said that the magnetic bodies 5 of the device 100 are distanced from one another and configured to cooperate with one another via the magnetic field generated thereby.

In particular, a magnetic body 5 is configured to move, by means of a magnetic force, at least an adjacent magnetic body 5: the mechanical handling of a magnetic body 5 by means of the guide element 6, during the activation condition, enables movement of the remaining bodies 5 of the magnetic device 100 by means of the magnetic force of the magnetic body 5.

Alternatively, it is possible to connect the guide element 6 to two or more magnetic bodies 5 so that the movement of guide element 6 enables the magnetic bodies 5 to which the guide member 6 is connected to be directly moved. It should be noted that the coil of the first generator and the coil of the second generator may exhibit a mutually-opposite winding, by suitably connecting the terminals. Alternatively, they may have the same winding direction as the loops, by inverting the terminal connections.

A further object of the present invention relates to a system for the production of electric energy comprising a frame configured such as to enable constraining and positioning the system on fixed structures, at least an activating element engaged to the support frame and which is configured to receive external urges, and at least a device 100. The first portion 6a of the guide element 6 is engaged to the activating element, which is configured such as to receive the external urges and transmit the external force F to the first portion 6b of the guide element 6: transmission of the urges from the element activation to the guide element 6 enable the movement of the magnetic bodies 5 of the generator 1 of the device 100 for the production of electricity.

The activating element of the system can comprise at least a buoy floating on the sea which is able to exploit the oscillations impressed by the waves such as to move the guide element 6. Alternatively, the activating element may comprise a wind turbine which can harvest the action of the wind such as to move the guide element 6.

A further object of the present invention relates to a flooring 200 for the production of electricity. The flooring 200, represented in figures 26 and 27, comprises at least a frame 201 configured to enabling constraining the flooring 20 and positioning it on the ground, and in particular illustrates a fixed portion suitable for being stably constrained to the ground.

More in detail, the frame 201 is configured such as to engage at least a device 100, in particular the frame 201 is configured to engage a plurality of devices 100. The frame can comprise a guide 201a configured to enable, in a first positioning step of the pavement, a mobile engagement of the device 100 on the support frame 101 , in particular enabling the sliding of the frame 101 and consequently, in a second constraining step, the blocking of the frame 101 with respect to the frame 201 of the floor 200. The flooring further comprises at least one activating element 202 engaged to the support frame 201 and which comprises at least a first portion 203 able to engage the frame 201 and at least a second portion 204 exhibiting an active surface 204a able to receive external urges. The active portion 202 further comprises a transmission surface 204b of the second portion 204 of the activation member 202 opposite the active surface 204a.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the first portion 6a of the guide element 6 is engaged to the transmission surface 204b of the second portion 204 of the activating member 202 opposite the active surface 204a. The second portion 204 of the activating member is configured to receive the external urges and transmit the external force F to the first portion 6b of the guide element 6: the transmission of the urges from the activating element 202 to the guide element 6 enables the movement of the magnetic bodies 5 of the generators 1 of the devices 100 for the production of electric energy.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the activating element 202 can include a first element 205 able to contact the guide element 6 and which is configured so that it can deform elastically, during the application of external stress on the activating element 202, and enable the movement of the guide element. The activation element 202 can further comprise a second element 206 engaged to the first element 205 and arranged on the opposite side to the device 100. The second element 206 is configured to define a passage area for pedestrians and/or vehicles. In particular, the second element 206 defines a substantially flat surface having a certain roughness; in particular it defines a coefficient of friction substantially similar to a road surface and/or pedestrian crossings: in this way it ensures a certain adhesion during the passage of vehicles and/or pedestrians.

A further object of the present invention is a method for the production of electric energy. This method primarily comprises the step of providing at least a device for the production of electric energy 100 and/or an electric generator 1 of the above-described type.

The method for the production of electric energy further comprises the step of moving the guide element 6 (or directly the magnetic body 5) according to a reciprocating motion and in a limited range of displacement between two separate operating ends positions with a consequent motion of the magnetic bodies 5: the relative movement of the magnetic body 5 with respect to the coil 3 generating current induced within the coil 3.

In the accompanying drawings a condition is schematically shown in which the movement of the guide element between the two operative positions of the ends allows moving the magnetic bodies around a maximum flow position or an intermediate position between the two operating positions of the ends of the magnetic bodies. The maximum flow position can belong to the range of limited displacement between the two end operating positions (conditions not represented in the accompanying figures).

In particular, figure 15A shows, purely by way of example, a generator 1 arranged in the maximum flow condition, while figures 15B and 15C show an electric generator 1 respectively in a first and in a second end operating condition. In more detail the steps of the method shown schematically in figures 15A, 15B and 15C show, by way of non-limiting example, an embodiment in which the maximum flow position is an intermediate position between two operational end positions, in particular in which the maximum flow position is equally offset with respect to the first and second end operating positions of the magnetic bodies and corresponds to a condition in which the magnetic bodies have at least one pole substantially facing.

In further embodiments not represented in the accompanying figures, the operating end positions can be arranged at different distances relative to the position of maximum flow. As previously mentioned, during the operational phase, the magnetic body 5 is configured to rotate with respect to the coil 3 about a rotation axis 8 substantially perpendicular to the south-north direction of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic body 5 and/or magnetic field lines inside the magnetic body 5.

The method for energy production includes a limitation in the movement of the guide element and therefore of the relative magnetic bodies 5. In particular, the magnetic bodies can rotate around the operating position of maximum flow bv an angle of less than +/-90°, in particular less than +/-80 °, even more in particular less than +/-70 °. More in detail, each magnetic body 5 is rotated in an overall range of displacement, around the operating maximum flow position, corresponding to an smaller overall angle in absolute value at 180° or 160°, in particular less than 120° or 90°, and still more particularly less than 60° or 45°.

As previously mentioned, the movement of the magnetic body is determined by at least one guide element 6, the characteristics of which are substantially identical to the guide element mentioned above. In particular, the method includes preparation of at least one guide element 6 configured for moving the magnetic body 5. More in detail, the step of moving said magnetic body 5 comprises the substeps of: receiving via the guide element 6 an external force F suitable for moving the guide element 6 and consequently the magnetic bodies 5. As previously mentioned, the guide element 6 can move the magnetic body 5 by means of magnetic attraction, or alternatively by acting directly on the magnetic body: these conditions are essentially identical to the conditions previously described for the device 100. In both cases it is possible to control the movement of the magnetic bodies 5 by acting on the displacement of the guiding element 6.

In addition to the limitation of the displacement of the guide element 6 the movement of at least one magnetic body 5 can be independently limited by means of the auxiliary element 28 or alternatively by restricting the movement, directly limiting only the movement of the first magnetic body 5 or only the movement of the guide element 6. To limit the movement of the magnetic body by means of the auxiliary element 28, it is possible to act on the dimensions, in particular on the length and/or diameter thereof.

An application embodiment of this case can be the use of reduction gears or lever arms that enable modulating the movement of the guide element 6 and subsequently controlling the movement of the magnetic body 5.

An electric power generator and a method for the production of energy in accordance with the present invention exhibit at least the following advantages. A generator and a method in accordance with the present invention lead to obviating one or more of the drawbacks of the previously-cited prior art. Moreover, the invention enables exploitation of even small movements, in terms of displacement amplitude, and/or small urges, in terms of strength, by the guide element on the magnetic body in order to produce energy. In other words the invention therefore enables drawing power even in the presence of sources of mechanical energy that determine only small displacements of the guide element and/or that generate forces of small entity.

A generator according to the invention also has a simple structure, sturdy and easy to maintain. A generator and a method according to the invention are also very flexible and adaptable to many practical applications. The invention also enables high-efficiency derivation of energy. The invention is also simple and economical to implement.