TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to magnetic field generators. In particular, the present disclosure relates to electromagnetic field generators to repel permanent magnets, for use for example in the context of reciprocating engines.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional electric motors produce motion via the interaction of magnetic fields, and may produce either rotary or reciprocating motion. Reciprocating electric motors may have a ferromagnetic armature, whereby motive force is produced via the interaction of a generated magnetic field with a magnetic field induced in the armature, e.g. a solenoid. Alternatively, reciprocating electric motors may have an armature that is a permanent magnet, whereby motive force is produced via the interaction of a generated magnetic field with the magnetic field of the permanent magnet. A ferromagnetic armature may only produce force by attracting the armature, while a permanent magnet armature may produce motive force by attracting or repelling the armature.

[0003] The performance of a reciprocating electric motor is strongly affected by the performance of the device used to produce the generated magnetic field, in particular for reciprocating electric motors using a permanent magnet.

[0004] As such, there is an ongoing need for improved magnetic field generators for use in reciprocating electric motors.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure provides devices for generating magnetic fields, methods for producing such magnetic field generators, and uses for magnetic field generators, such as for example in electric reciprocating motors.

[0006] The present disclosure recognizes that there are problems in the current existing technology in respect of devices for generating magnetic fields for various purposes. In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure improve the magnetic force/power generated upon passing an electric current through the device. In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure provide improvements in electric reciprocating motors by providing a strong repelling force that can be activated and deactivated quickly and efficiently.

[0007] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic field generator comprising: a spool or spool-like structure comprising a center rod coupled at opposite ends to a top plate and a bottom plate; and a winding of wire wound around the center rod for passing of an electrical current, the winding of wire in a configuration to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure comprise a wire that is wrapped around a spool in a manner that the wire is divided within the core of the spool about evenly between the top and bottom to create an axial magnetism. Advantageously, it has been found that winding or wrapping the wire in this way to magnetize the spool axially when charged by electric current creates more power to repel than other devices having a similar spool-like core shape.

[0009] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic field generator comprising: a spool or spool-like structure comprising a center rod coupled at opposite ends to a top plate and a bottom plate; and a winding of wire wound around the center rod for passing of an electrical current, the winding of wire comprising: a helical core portion wound around the center rod at both an upper region and a lower region of the center rod, the upper region spanning along the center rod from the top plate to a boundary point between the top plate and bottom plate and the lower region spanning along the center rod from the bottom plate to the boundary point; an upper winding portion wound atop the helical core portion within the upper region and in a first geometry; and a lower winding portion wound atop the helical core portion within the lower region and in a second geometry.

[0010] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, at least one of the top plate and the bottom plate are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In other embodiments, both the top plate and the bottom plate are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In some embodiments, the center rod is comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In some embodiments, the entirety of the spool or spool-like structure is a ferromagnetic material.

[0011] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the center rod is a cylindrical rod. In some embodiments, the top plate and the bottom plate are circular disks.

[0012] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the wire is an insulated wire or a magnet wire. In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the wire is a magnet wire.

[0013] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the first geometry and the second geometry each independently comprise at least one spiral planar wind of wire radially outwards from the helical core portion. In an embodiment, each of the at least one spiral planar wind is wound out to a circumference about equal to that of the top and bottom plates. In a further embodiment, the upper winding portion comprises multiple spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first upper spiral planar wind adjacent the top plate and each successive upper spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point; and the lower winding portion comprises multiple spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first lower spiral planar wind adjacent the bottom plate and each successive lower spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point. In select embodiments, the magnetic field generator comprises an equal number of upper spiral planar winds and lower spiral planar winds.

[0014] In an embodiment, the boundary point is at a midpoint along the center rod between the top plate and the bottom plate.

[0015] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the first geometry comprises at least one upper helical wrapping of wire extending between the top plate and the boundary point; and the second geometry comprises at least one lower helical wrapping of wire extending between the bottom plate and the boundary point. In an embodiment, the upper winding portion comprises multiple upper helical wrappings each atop the other. In an embodiment, the lower winding portion likewise comprises multiple lower helical wrappings each atop the other. In an embodiment, there is a gap at the boundary point along the center rod into which neither any of the upper helical wrappings or the lower helical wrappings extend. In an embodiment, the boundary point is at a midpoint along the center rod between the top plate and the bottom plate. In an embodiment, the magnetic field generator comprises a sufficient number of upper helical wrappings and lower helical wrappings for each to be wound out to a circumference about equal to that of the top and bottom plates.

[0016] In an embodiment of the magnetic field generator disclosed herein, the winding of wire around the center rod divides the upper winding portion and lower winding portion about evenly along a longitudinal length of the center rod, with the upper winding portion restricted to the upper region and the lower winding portion restricted to the lower region.

[0017] Advantageously, winding of wire on the center rod as disclosed herein generates an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[0018] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for producing a magnetic field generator, the method comprising winding wire around a center rod of a spool or a spool-like structure to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[0019] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for producing a magnetic field generator, the method comprising: winding wire around a center rod of a spool or a spool-like structure to form a helical core portion, the spool or spool-like structure comprising a top plate and a bottom plate coupled to opposite ends of the center rod; winding an upper winding portion atop the helical core portion in a first geometry within an upper region of the center rod, the upper region spanning along the center rod from the top plate to a boundary point between the top plate and bottom plate; and winding a lower winding portion atop the helical core portion in a second geometry within a lower region of the center rod, the lower region spanning along the center rod from the bottom plate to the boundary point.

[0020] In an embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry and the lower winding portion in the second geometry independently comprises winding at least one spiral planar wind of wire radially outward from the helical core portion. More particularly, in an embodiment, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry comprises winding multiple spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first upper spiral planar wind adjacent the top plate and each successive upper spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry comprises winding multiple lower spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first lower spiral planar wind adjacent the bottom plate and each successive lower spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point.

[0021] In an embodiment, the boundary point is at a midpoint along the center rod between the top plate and the bottom plate.

[0022] In an embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry comprises winding at least one upper helical wrapping of wire extending between the top plate and the boundary point; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry comprises winding at least one lower helical wrapping of wire extending between the bottom plate and the boundary point. More particularly, in an embodiment, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry comprises winding multiple upper helical wrappings each atop the other; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry comprises winding multiple lower helical wrappings each atop the other. In an embodiment, when winding, a gap is left at the boundary point into which neither any of the upper helical wrappings or the lower helical wrappings extend. In an embodiment, the boundary point is at a midpoint along the center rod between the top plate and the bottom plate.

[0023] In an embodiment, the methods disclosed herein comprise winding of wire around the center rod to divide the upper winding portion and lower winding portion about evenly along a longitudinal length of the center rod, with the upper winding portion restricted to the upper region and the lower winding portion restricted to the lower region.

[0024] In an embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, the entirety of the spool or spool-like structure is a ferromagnetic material.

[0025] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a reciprocating engine comprising: a housing; a crankshaft comprising a crankpin, the crankshaft positioned to rotate adjacent or within the housing; a reciprocating member coupled at one end to the crankpin and comprising at an opposite end a permanent magnet, the reciprocating member positioned to reciprocate within the housing; and a magnetic field generator according to the present disclosure mounted within the housing and positioned proximate the permanent magnet when the crankpin is positioned at top dead center

[0026] Other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Further advantages, features, permutations and combinations of the present disclosure will now appear from the above and from the following detailed description of the various particular embodiments, taken together with the accompanying drawings appended herewith, each of which are intended to be non-limiting, in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a side view of the magnetic field generator of FIG. 1.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a spool for the magnetic field generator of

FIG. 1.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a side view of the spool of FIG. 3.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a winding for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 1.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a side view of the winding of FIG. 5.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a partially wound magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein, showing an exemplary winding of the helical core portion.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a helical core portion for the partially wound magnetic field generator of FIG. 7.

[0036] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of another partially wound magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein. [0037] FIG. 10 is a side view of the partially wound magnetic field generator of

FIG. 9.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a partially wound winding for the partially wound magnetic field generator of FIG. 9.

[0039] FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of the partially wound winding of FIG. 11.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a further magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein.

[0041] FIG. 14 is an image showing an exemplary winding of the helical core portion for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 13.

[0042] FIG. 15 is an image showing an exemplary beginning to winding of the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 13.

[0043] FIG. 16 is an image showing an exemplary completed winding of the lower winding portion for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 13, where winding of the upper winding portion has not yet commenced.

[0044] FIG. 17 is an image showing an exemplary completed winding of both the upper and lower winding portions for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 13.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of a further magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein.

[0046] FIG. 19 is a side view image an exemplary beginning to winding a first spiral planar wind the magnetic field generator of FIG. 18.

[0047] FIG. 20 is an image showing the first spiral planar wind of FIG. 19 separate from the spool.

[0048] FIG. 21 is an image showing a completed winding by successive spiral winds of the axial wind for the magnetic field generator of FIG. 18, shown separated from the spool. [0049] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram for a method of producing a magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein.

[0050] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a reciprocating engine according to an embodiment herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] As noted above, the present disclosure provides devices for generating magnetic fields, methods for producing magnetic field generators, and uses for magnetic field generators, such as for example in electric reciprocating motors.

[0052] The present disclosure recognizes that there are problems in the current existing technology in respect of devices for generating magnetic fields for various purposes. An advantage of the present disclosure is the provision of magnetic field generators having improved characteristics over existing technologies, particularly for example for use in electric reciprocating engines. The magnetic field generators of the present disclosure comprise a unique combination of a spool or spool-like structure and configuration of a winding of wire. As used herein, the term “core” is generally intended to refer the region of the spool between the two end plates, but as context dictates may also include the end plates.

[0053] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic field generator comprising: a spool or spool-like structure comprising a center rod coupled at opposite ends to a top plate and a bottom plate; and a winding of wire wound around the center rod for passing of an electrical current, the winding of wire in a configuration to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[0054] Without being bound to any particular theory, the present disclosure asserts that the geometry of the core and the geometry of the winding(s) of wire wound around the core, in combination with the design/materials of the spool, provide magnetic field generators having improved performance relative to conventional devices capable of providing magnetic actuation. In the context of the present disclosure, the term “magnetic field generator” and its derivatives is intended to refer to a device configured to generate a magnetic field when electrical current flows through at least a portion of the magnetic field generator. In an embodiment, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure are particularly well-suited for providing a repelling force.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure improve the magnetic force/power generated upon passing an electric current through the device. In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure provide improvements in electric reciprocating motors by providing a strong repelling force that can be activated and deactivated quickly and efficiently.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the magnetic field generators of the present disclosure comprise a wire that is wrapped around a spool in a manner that the wire is divided within the core of the spool about evenly between the top and bottom to create an axial magnetism. Advantageously, it has been found that winding or wrapping the wire in this way to magnetize the spool axially when charged by electric current creates more power to repel than other devices having a similar spool-like core shape (e.g. Example 1). Indeed, embodiments of the design herein are capable of generating a ‘pushing power’ (rather than a ‘pulling power’) that allows the magnetic field generator herein to provide higher power output capabilities, such as in an electric reciprocating (e.g. piston) engine. This can be quite advantageous from a practical perspective in providing more efficient electric vehicles, for example requiring less frequent charging, having improved driving distance ranges, etc.

[0057] Magnetic Field Generator

[0058] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic field generator comprising: a spool or spool-like structure comprising a center rod coupled at opposite ends to a top plate and a bottom plate; and a winding of wire wound around the center rod for passing of an electrical current, the winding of wire in a configuration to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[0059] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a magnetic field generator comprising: a spool or spool-like structure comprising a center rod coupled at opposite ends to a top plate and a bottom plate; and a winding of wire wound around the center rod for passing of an electrical current, the winding of wire comprising: a helical core portion wound around the center rod at both an upper region and a lower region of the center rod, the upper region spanning along the center rod from the top plate to a boundary point between the top plate and bottom plate and the lower region spanning along the center rod from the bottom plate to the boundary point; an upper winding portion wound atop the helical core portion within the upper region and in a first geometry; and a lower winding portion wound atop the helical core portion within the lower region and in a second geometry.

[0060] As used herein, the term “spool-like structure” is intended to refer to a structure that has similar design properties to a spool, but may not fall within the conventional meaning or understanding of a spool. For example, a “spool” is commonly understand as having a cylindrical center rod connected at both ends to circular disks. By “spool-like structure”, it is contemplated herein that these components may be modified in shape, but still provide a similar form and function as a conventional spool. As an example, in a spool-like structure of the present disclosure, the center rod need not be cylindrical in shape. It may take any shape capable of providing rod structure between the plates at each end, such as a square rod, a rectangle rod, an oval rod, etc. Moreover, in a spool-like structure of the present disclosure, the end plates (top and bottom) need not be circular disks. For example, much like the center rod, the end plates may take any shape capable of “capping” the end of the center rod, such as a square plate, a rectangle plate, an oval plate, etc.

[0061] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the magnetic field generator comprises a spool having a conventional shape (cylindrical center rod and circular top and bottom plates).

[0062] The components of the spool and spool-like structure may be comprised of the same or different material. As used herein, “comprised of” is intended to mean that the components include a certain amount of the material, but may not be made entirely (100%) of that material. For example, they may comprise between about 1 % and about 99% by weight or by volume of the material. The term “comprised of’ also includes embodiments being made entirely of the material (100%). In an embodiment, at least one of the top plate and the bottom plate are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In other embodiments, both the top plate and the bottom plate are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In either of these embodiments, the center rod may or may not be comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In an embodiment, the entirety of the spool or spool-like structure is made of a ferromagnetic material.

[0063] The ferromagnetic material may be any ferromagnetic material, such as for a metal or a metallic alloy. Without limitation, the ferromagnetic material may for example be a metal such as iron, cobalt, nickel, gadolinium, magnetite, dysprosium, awaruite or neodymium. In an embodiment, the ferromagnetic material may be any metallic alloy, such as for example an alloy of the metals listed in the preceding sentence. In an embodiment, the ferromagnetic material may be a ferromagnetic ceramic, such as ferrite. In an embodiment, the spool or spool-like structure of the present disclosure, or any individual component thereof, is made of iron or an iron alloy. In an embodiment, the spool or spool-like structure of the present disclosure, or any individual component thereof, is made of cobalt or a cobalt alloy.

[0064] The spool or spool-like structure may be of any suitable size, particularly having regard to its intended purpose. In an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the center rod may have a length of between about 2 cm and about 50 cm, and a diameter (circle) or cross-section (square, rectangle, oval, etc.) of between about 0.5 cm and about 10 cm. For applications relating to electric reciprocating engines, the center rod may for example have a length of between about 5 cm and about 10 cm, and a diameter (circle) or cross-section (square, rectangle, oval, etc.) of between about 1 cm and about 2.5 cm. In an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the top plate and bottom plate may independently have a thickness of between about 1 mm and about 20 mm, and a diameter (circle) or cross-section (square, rectangle, oval, etc.) of between about 2 cm and about 25 cm. For applications relating to electric reciprocating engines, the top plate and bottom plate may independently have a thickness of between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, and a diameter (circle) or cross-section (square, rectangle, oval, etc.) of between about 5 cm and about 15 cm. The top plate and the bottom plate may be of the same or different size.

[0065] The center rod is coupled at opposing ends to the top plate and the bottom plate. As used herein, “coupled” is intended to mean connected by any means. The spool or spool-like structure may be a monolithic form in that it is formed as a single unit, not as individual components that are subsequently connected. Alternatively, the center rod and top/bottom plates may be connected to each other by any suitable means, such as by heating, welding, fastening, or any other permanent or reversible mechanism. [0066] The magnetic field generator of the present disclosure comprises a winding of wire wound around the center rod of the spool or spool-like structure. By “winding of wire”, it is intended to mean that wire is wound around the center rod. The wire may be any type of wire suitable for passing an electrical current therethrough and generating a magnetic flux. The electric current may be any form of current flow, such as for example and without limitation alternating current (AC), direct current (DC), or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the electric current flow is DC. If AC is used, the current should be directed through a rectifier to be converted to DC before passing through the magnetic field generator.

[0067] In an embodiment, the wire is comprised of copper or aluminum. In a particular embodiment, the wire is comprised of copper. The wire may be any suitable gauge, such as for example a gauge of between about 4 and about 18. In a particular embodiment, the gauge of wire is 10 gauge, 12 gauge or 14 gauge. In an embodiment, the wire is an insulated wire or a magnet wire. In an embodiment, the wire is a magnet wire In an embodiment, the magnet wire comprises copper or aluminum with a very thin layer of insulation. The insulation may be one or both of an enamel (e.g. thin film of varnish) or a fibrous (e.g. fibrous polyester or fiberglass yarn) coating.

[0068] In embodiments of the magnetic field generator of the present disclosure, the winding of wire is a single piece of wire that is wound around the center rod of the spool or spool-like structure in a configuration to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spoollike structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire. By “axial magnetism”, it is meant that a magnetic field is generated along or in the direction of the axis of the center rod of the spool or spool-like structure.

[0069] Various configurations are described herein which may be used to achieve axial magnetism, some of which are advantageous over others in regards, for example, to strength and/or force, and in particular in respect of repulsion strength. In an embodiment, to achieve the axial magnetism, the wire is wrapped such that a configuration is achieved whereby the first half of a length of wire ends up on one end of the spool and the second half of the length of wire ends up on the other end.

[0070] In an embodiment, the winding of wire may be an axial wrap. By “axial wrap” it is meant the wire is wound in successive spiral planar winds, beginning at one end of the spool and progressively moving towards the other end of the spool until the wire is wrapped along the axial length of the center rod (see FIG. 18-21). By “spiral planar wind” it is meant that the wire is wound with each successive layer directly on top of the last to form a spiral that extends radially outward as the wind grows in size. Each upper spiral planar wind may be wound out to any circumference, and each may be the same or different in circumference than the others. In an embodiment, the spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is equal or about equal to the top and bottom plates. In other embodiments, the upper spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is between about 25% and about 95% of the circumference of the top and bottom plates, more particularly between 40% and 85%, and more particularly still between 50% and 75%.

[0071] In other embodiments, the winding of wire is wound around the center rod of the spool or spool-like structure in configurations as described herein having a helical portion, an upper winding portion, and a lower winding portion. As shown in FIG. 8, taking a length of wire, typically the helical portion would be formed by wire in middle of the length of wire, with the wire on each side thereof forming the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion, respectively, upon winding around the center rod. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the wire may by more than a single piece of wire, such as two or more pieces of wire appropriately connected or contacting each other.

[0072] As is evident from the present disclosure as a whole, and the preceding paragraphs, the winding of wire for the magnetic field generator of the present disclosure is of a particular configuration, with certain embodiments having a helical core portion, an upper winding portion, and a lower winding portion.

[0073] Helical Core Portion - The helical core portion is a span of wire that is wound directly against the center rod. It is wound in a helical configuration, typically with each wind of wire being against the last to form a tight helix. In an embodiment, it spans the entire length of the center rod to form a layer of wire covering the center rod. In some embodiments, it may only partially cover the center rod, but in such embodiments it spans a sufficient distance such that the upper winding portion and lower winding portion can be wound atop the helical portion in a manner that the upper winding portion and lower winding portion can be spaced apart along the center rod (e.g. at opposite ends). In an embodiment, the helical core portion is a single-layer helices of wire. [0074] In an embodiment, the helical core portion is wound around the center rod at both an upper region and a lower region of the center rod. By this, it is meant that the helical core portion spans a distance that bridges the upper region and the lower region. As used herein, the “upper region” is a length or span of the center rod adjacent the top plate and the “lower region” is a length or span of the center rod adjacent the bottom plate. The upper region and lower region are separated or divided at a boundary point along the center rod. Although typically the boundary point between the upper region and lower region is at the midpoint of the center rod between the top plate and bottom plate, this is not necessarily so and the boundary point may be at any desired position along the center rod.

[0075] Upper Winding Portion - The upper winding portion is a span of wire that is contained within the upper region when wound around the center rod. It is wound atop the helical core portion. By “wound atop” it is intended to mean that the upper winding portion is wound either partially or completely atop the helical core portion in the upper region. In an embodiment, it is wound completely atop the helical core portion. In other embodiments, some of the upper winding portion may not be atop the helical core portion, but is still within the upper region.

[0076] The upper winding portion is wound in a first geometry. By “first geometry” it is intended to refer to a winding configuration, for example a spiral geometry, a helical geometry, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the first geometry is a spiral planar wind of wire, i.e. an upper spiral wind for the upper winding portion. By “spiral planar wind” it is meant that the wire is wound with each successive layer directly on top of the last to form a spiral that extends radially outward as the wind grows in size. The first geometry may include any number of upper spiral planar winds. Once a desired circumference of the upper spiral planar wind is reached, the wire is simply moved to an adjacent position to start the next upper spiral planar wind. In an embodiment of the first geometry, the first upper spiral planar wind is against the top plate and then each successive upper spiral planar wind is moved inwards along the center rod of the spool towards the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive upper spiral planar winds approach and contact the boundary point, such that the upper spiral planar winds will contact the lower spiral planar winds at the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive upper spiral planar winds approach the boundary point, but do not reach it so as to leave a gap at the boundary point between the wire forming the upper winding portion and the wire forming the lower winding portion. [0077] Each upper spiral planar wind may be wound out to any circumference, and each may be the same or different in circumference than the others. In an embodiment, the upper spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is equal or about equal to the top plate. In other embodiments, one or more of the upper spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is between about 25% and about 95% of the circumference of the top plate, more particularly between 40% and 85% of the circumference of the top plate, and more particularly still between 50% and 75% of the circumference of the top plate.

[0078] In an embodiment, the magnetic field generator of the present disclosure comprises about an equal number of upper spiral winds as lower spiral winds. In other embodiments, the magnetic field generator may comprise more upper spiral winds than lower spiral winds. In other embodiments, the magnetic field generator may comprise more lower spiral winds than upper spiral winds. The number of upper and lower spiral planar winds may depend on the desired position of the boundary point, and/or the desired axial strength or orientation of the magnetic force.

[0079] In an embodiment, the first geometry is a helical wrapping of wire, i.e. an upper helical wrapping of wire. By “upper helical wrapping of wire” it is meant that the wire is wound in a helical configuration, similar to the helical core portion, but contained within the upper region. The first geometry may include any number of upper helical wrappings of wire, with each successive wind being atop the last until a desired circumference is reached. In an embodiment, the successive upper helical wrappings of wire extend along the center rod to a sufficient distance to reach the boundary point, such that the upper helical wrappings will contact the lower helical wrappings at the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive upper helical wrappings of wire build upon each other, but do not extend along the center rod to a sufficient distance that would reach the boundary point, so as to leave a gap at the boundary point between the wire forming the upper winding portion and the wire forming the lower winding portion.

[0080] The upper helical wrappings of wire may be wound atop each other to any desired circumference for the upper winding portion. In an embodiment, the upper helical wrappings are of sufficient number to obtain a circumference that is equal or about equal to the top plate. In other embodiments, the upper helical wrappings are of sufficient number to obtain a circumference that is between about 25% and about 95% of the circumference of the top plate, more particularly between 40% and 85% of the circumference of the top plate, and more particularly still between 50% and 75% of the circumference of the top plate.

[0081] In an embodiment, the magnetic field generator of the present disclosure comprises about an equal number of upper helical wrappings as lower helical wrappings. In other embodiments, the magnetic field generator may comprise more upper helical wrappings than lower helical wrappings. In other embodiments, the magnetic field generator may comprise more lower helical wrappings than upper helical wrappings. The number of upper and lower helical wrappings may depend on the desired axial strength or orientation of the magnetic force.

[0082] Lower Winding Portion - The lower winding portion is a span of wire that is contained within the lower region when wound around the center rod. It is wound atop the helical core portion. By “wound atop” it is intended to mean that the lower winding portion is wound either partially or completely atop the helical core portion in the lower region. In an embodiment, it is wound completely atop the helical core portion. In other embodiments, some of the lower winding portion may not be atop the helical core portion, but is still within the lower region.

[0083] The lower winding portion is wound in a second geometry. By “second geometry” it is intended to refer to a winding configuration, for example a spiral geometry, a helical geometry, or any combination thereof. In any given magnetic field generator of the present disclosure, the first geometry and second geometry may be the same or different.

[0084] In an embodiment, the second geometry is a spiral planar wind of wire, i.e. a lower spiral wind for the lower winding portion. The second geometry may include any number of lower spiral planar winds. Once a desired circumference of the lower spiral planar wind is reached, the wire is simply moved to an adjacent position to start the next lower spiral planar wind. In an embodiment of the second geometry, the first lower spiral planar wind is against the bottom plate and then each successive lower spiral planar wind is moved inwards along the center rod of the spool towards the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive lower spiral planar winds approach and contact the boundary point, such that the lower spiral planar winds will contact the upper spiral planar winds at the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive lower spiral planar winds approach the boundary point, but do not reach it so as to leave a gap at the boundary point between the wire forming the upper winding portion and the wire forming the lower winding portion.

[0085] Each lower spiral planar wind may be wound out to any circumference, and each may be the same or different in circumference than the others. In an embodiment, the lower spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is equal or about equal to the bottom plate. In other embodiments, one or more of the lower spiral planar winds are wound out to a circumference that is between about 25% and about 95% of the circumference of the bottom plate, more particularly between 40% and 85% of the circumference of the bottom plate, and more particularly still between 50% and 75% of the circumference of the bottom plate.

[0086] In an embodiment, the second geometry is a helical wrapping of wire, i.e. a lower helical wrapping of wire. By “lower helical wrapping of wire” it is meant that the wire is wound in a helical configuration, similar to the helical core portion, but contained within the lower region. The second geometry may include any number of lower helical wrappings of wire, with each successive wind being atop the last until a desired circumference is reached. In an embodiment, the successive lower helical wrappings of wire extend along the center rod to a sufficient distance to reach the boundary point, such that the lower helical wrappings will contact the upper helical wrappings at the boundary point. In an embodiment, the successive lower helical wrappings of wire build upon each other, but do not extend along the center rod to a sufficient distance that would reach the boundary point, so as to leave a gap at the boundary point between the wire forming the upper winding portion and the wire forming the lower winding portion.

[0087] The lower helical wrappings of wire may be wound atop each other to any desired circumference for the lower winding portion. In an embodiment, the lower helical wrappings are of sufficient number to obtain a circumference that is equal or about equal to the bottom plate. In other embodiments, the lower helical wrappings are of sufficient number to obtain a circumference that is between about 25% and about 95% of the circumference of the bottom plate, more particularly between 40% and 85% of the circumference of the bottom plate, and more particularly still between 50% and 75% of the circumference of the bottom plate. [0088] As described herein, in certain embodiments a gap is left between the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion. By this, it is meant that there is a void space between the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion. This is shown, for example, in FIG. 2 and FIG. 6.

[0089] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein numerals refer to like components, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings that further show exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, without limitation.

[0090] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a magnetic field generator 100 according to an embodiment herein. FIG. 2 is a side view of the same magnetic field generator 100. The magnetic field generator 100 includes a spool 110 and a winding 112 of wire 114 wound around the center rod of the spool 110. In select embodiments, the wire is an insulated wire or a magnet wire, preferably a magnet wire.

[0091] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the spool 110. FIG. 4 is a side view of the same spool 110. The spool 110 includes a center rod 116 coupled at opposite ends to a top plate 118 and a bottom plate 120. In select embodiments, at least one of the top plate 118 or the bottom plate 120 are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In select embodiments, both the top plate 118 and the bottom plate 120 are comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In select embodiments, the center rod 116 is comprised of a ferromagnetic material. In further select embodiments, the entire spool 110 is comprised of a ferromagnetic material.

[0092] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of an exemplary winding 112 of wire 114. FIG. 6 is a side view of the same winding 112 of wire 114. The winding 112 includes a helical core portion 122 that is wound around the center rod 116 (FIG. 4), an upper winding portion 124 adjacent the top plate 118 in a first geometry, and a lower winding portion 126 adjacent the bottom plate 120 in a second geometry. As can be seen, there is a gap 127 between the upper winding portion 124 and the lower winding portion 126. Without being bound to any particular theory, the present disclosure asserts that the shape of the spool, in combination with the first and second geometry of the upper winding portion 124 and the lower winding portion 126, influences the orientation and intensity of the magnetic field generated when electric current flows through the wire 114 to generate an axially magnetized magnetic field generator 100. In select embodiments, the first geometry includes the upper winding portion 124 being wound outwards from the helical core portion 122 in successive spiral planar winds, and the second geometry includes the lower winding portion 126 being wound outwards from the helical core portion 122 in successive spiral planar winds.

[0093] A skilled person, having the benefit of the present disclosure, will appreciate that the direction in which the wire is wound determines the direction of magnetic forces generated by an electric current flowing through the wire 114. In select embodiments, at least one of the first geometry or the second geometry includes a spiral geometry. In select embodiments, at least one of the first geometry or the second geometry includes a helical geometry. The first and/or the second geometry may include both a spiral and a helical geometry.

[0094] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a partially wound magnetic field generator 128 according to an embodiment herein. The partially wound magnetic field generator 128 includes a spool 110 as described above and a helical core portion 122 wound around the center rod 116 of the spool 110. In embodiments of the winding methods of the present disclosure, this would be one of the early steps so that the upper winding portion 124 and the lower winding portion 126 could then be wound atop the helical core portion 122.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the helical core portion 122 of the partially wound magnetic field generator 110 of FIG. 7, shown without the spool 110 so the structure of the helical core portion 122 can more easily be seen.

[0095] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of another partially wound magnetic field generator 130 according to an embodiment herein. FIG. 10 is a side view of the partially wound magnetic field generator 130. The partially wound magnetic field generator 130 includes a spool 110 as described above and a partially wound winding 132. The partially wound winding 132 includes a helical core portion 122, an upper winding portion 124, and a partially wound lower winding portion 134. The upper winding portion 124 has been completely wound with a number of successive upper spiral planar winds, while winding of the partially wound lower winding portion 134 is in progress with a successive lower spiral planar wind in progress. [0096] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the partially wound winding 132 extracted from the spool 110 so it can more easily be seen. FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of the same. The partially wound lower winding portion 134 includes a lower spiral planar wind, while the upper winding portion 124 includes a number of successive upper spiral planar winds.

[0097] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of another magnetic field generator 200 according to an embodiment herein. The magnetic field generator 200 includes a spool 210 and a winding 212 of wire 214 wound around the center rod of the spool 210. As shown in FIGs. 14-17, the winding 212 of wire 214 is by way of an alternate embodiment for the magnetic field generator 200 of FIG. 13. In FIGs. 14-17, the wire 214 is separate from the spool 210 for ease of showing the winding configuration, but it should be understood that the winding 212 of wire 214 would be on a spool 210.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 14, a helical core portion 222 is formed from the wire 214, which would be wound around the center rod of the spool 210. In FIG. 15, the upper winding portion 224 and the lower winding portion 234 are shown. As indicated by the arrows within the brackets, each end of the wire 214 is wound in a helical configuration within each of the upper winding portion 224 and the lower winding portion 234, with each successive layer on top of the last. In FIG. 15, a first layer helical wrap of the lower winding portion 234 has been wound atop the helical core portion 222. A first helical wrap of the upper winding portion 224 has not yet commenced. In FIG. 16, the winding 212 of the lower winding portion 234 has been completed with multiple helical wraps being wound atop each other to provide a desired circumference to the lower winding portion 234. In FIG. 16, a first helical wrap of the upper winding portion 224 has still not commenced and only the helical core portion 222 is present in this upper region. In FIG. 17, the winding 212 of both the upper winding portion 224 the lower winding portion 234 have been completed with multiple helical wraps being wound atop each other to provide a desired circumference to both the upper and lower winding portions 224/234.

[0099] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of another magnetic field generator 300 according to an embodiment herein. The magnetic field generator 300 includes a spool 310 and a winding 312 of wire 314 wound around the center rod 315 of the spool 310. As shown in FIGs. 19-21 , the winding 312 of wire 314 is by way of an alternate embodiment for the magnetic field generator 300 of FIG. 18, whereby the wire 314 is wrapped by way of an axial wrap as described herein. In FIGs. 19-20, a first spiral planar wind 316 is shown. In FIG. 19, the first spiral planar wind 316 is adjacent the top plate 318 of the spool. As indicated by the arrow in FIGs. 19 and 21 , successive spiral planar winds would be wound progressively along the center rod 315 downwards toward the bottom plate 320.

[00100] Methods

[00101] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides methods for producing a magnetic field generator of the present disclosure. The skilled person, having regard to the present disclosure, would recognize any number of methods for producing a magnetic field generator of the present disclosure.

[00102] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for producing a magnetic field generator that comprises winding wire around a center rod of a spool or a spool-like structure to generate an axial magnetism to the spool or spool-like structure upon an electric current being passed through the wire.

[00103] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for producing a magnetic field generator that comprises winding wire around a center rod of a spool or a spool-like structure to form a helical core portion, the spool or spool-like structure comprising a top plate and a bottom plate coupled to opposite ends of the center rod; winding an upper winding portion atop the helical core portion in a first geometry within an upper region of the center rod, the upper region spanning along the center rod from the top plate to a boundary point between the top plate and bottom plate; and winding a lower winding portion atop the helical core portion in a second geometry within a lower region of the center rod, the lower region spanning along the center rod from the bottom plate to the boundary point.

[00104] The winding steps may be done by a manual or automated procedure, or any combination thereof. The winding steps may be performed in any order or at the same time, although in preferred embodiments the winding of the helical core portion would be done first.

[00105] In an embodiment, the methods herein comprise winding the upper winding portion in one or more of the first geometries as described herein, and winding the lower winding portion in one or more of the second geometries as described herein. The winding may be performed independently, such one or both comprises a spiral geometry or a helical geometry as described herein.

[00106] In an embodiment, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry comprises winding multiple spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first upper spiral planar wind adjacent the top plate and each successive upper spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry comprises winding multiple lower spiral planar winds of wire, beginning with a first lower spiral planar wind adjacent the bottom plate and each successive lower spiral planar wind being closer to the boundary point.

[00107] In an embodiment, in winding wire around the center rod, a gap is left between the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion at about the boundary point such that the upper winding portion and the lower winding portion do not contact each other.

[00108] In other embodiments, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry comprises winding at least one upper helical wrapping of wire extending between the top plate and the boundary point; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry comprises winding at least one lower helical wrapping of wire extending between the bottom plate and the boundary point. For example, winding the upper winding portion in the first geometry may comprise winding multiple upper helical wrappings each atop the other; and winding the lower winding portion in the second geometry may comprise winding multiple lower helical wrappings each atop the other. In an embodiment, there is a gap at the boundary point into which neither any of the upper helical wrappings or the lower helical wrappings extend.

[00109] In an embodiment of the methods herein, the winding of wire around the center rod divides the upper winding portion and lower winding portion about evenly along a longitudinal length of the center rod, with the upper winding portion restricted to the upper region and the lower winding portion restricted to the lower region.

[00110] Reference will now be made to accompanying drawings that further show exemplary embodiments of the methods of the present disclosure, without limitation. [00111] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram for a method 400 of producing a magnetic field generator according to an embodiment herein. At 402, a wire is wound around a center rod of a spool to form a helical core portion, the spool comprising a top plate and a bottom plate coupled to the center rod at opposite ends. The wire may be substantively similar to wire 114. The spool may be substantively similar to spool 110. The helical core portion may be substantively similar to helical core portion 122.

[00112] At 404, an upper winding portion is wound atop the helical core portion in an upper region of the center rod and in a first geometry. The upper winding portion may be substantively similar to upper winding portion 124 and the first geometry may be as described herein. In select embodiments, winding an upper winding portion includes winding the upper winding portion outwards from the helical core portion. In select embodiments, winding an upper winding portion in a first geometry includes winding the upper winding portion in a spiral geometry. In select embodiments, winding an upper winding portion in a first geometry includes winding the upper winding portion in a helical geometry

[00113] At 406, a lower winding portion is wound atop the helical core portion in a lower region of the center rod and in a second geometry. The lower winding portion may be substantively similar to lower winding portion 126 and the second geometry may be as described herein. In select embodiments, winding a lower winding portion includes winding the lower winding portion outwards from the helical core portion. In select embodiments, winding a lower winding portion in a second geometry includes winding the lower winding portion in a spiral geometry. In select embodiments, winding a lower winding portion in a second geometry includes winding the lower winding portion in a helical geometry.

[00114] Reciprocating Engine

[00115] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a reciprocating engine comprising: a housing; a crankshaft comprising a crankpin, the crankshaft positioned to rotate adjacent or within the housing; a reciprocating member coupled at one end to the crankpin and comprising at an opposite end a permanent magnet, the reciprocating member positioned to reciprocate within the housing; and a magnetic field generator according to any one of claims 1 to 16 mounted within the housing and positioned proximate the permanent magnet when the crankpin is positioned at top dead center. [00116] Reference will now be made to accompanying drawings that further show exemplary embodiments of the methods of the present disclosure, without limitation.

[00117] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a reciprocating engine 500 according to an embodiment herein. Reciprocating engine 500 includes a housing 510, a crankshaft 512, a reciprocating member 514, and a magnetic field generator 100 of the present disclosure. Although labeled as magnetic field generator 100, it will be understand that any magnetic field generator of the present disclosure may be used (e.g. including 200 and 300). The crankshaft includes a crankpin 518 and is positioned to rotate within the housing 510. The reciprocating member 514 is coupled at one end to the crankshaft 512 via the crankpin 518, and includes a permanent magnet 520 positioned at an end of the reciprocating member 514 opposite the crankpin 518. The reciprocating member 514 is positioned to reciprocate within the housing 510. The magnetic field generator 100 is positioned within the housing 510 proximate the permanent magnet 520 when the crankpin has rotated to a position of top dead center. The magnetic field generator 100 is as described herein.

EXAMPLES

[00118] Example 1

[00119] Two magnetic field generators were prepared. A first magnetic field generator comprised a ferromagnetic spool having a single winding of wire in a helical configuration wound around the center rod and extending from the top plate to the bottom plate of the spool. A second magnetic field generator (of the present disclosure) comprised a ferromagnetic spool having a winding of wire between in accordance with FIGs. 1-6, whereby the winding includes a helical core portion wound around the center rod, and an upper winding portion and lower winding portion wound atop the helical core portion, each on respective ends of spool with a gap maintained therebetween. The spools for both magnetic field generators were 12.7 mm in diameter.

[00120] Both of the magnetic field generators were tested for their ability to repel a 25.4 mm diameter magnet. It was found that the first magnetic field generator was able to repel the magnet a distance of 3.5-4.0 cm. In contrast, the second magnetic field generator (of the present disclosure) was capable of more than doubling the distance of repulsion, repelling the magnet a distance of 8.0-9.0 cm. The magnetic field generator of the present disclosure was also found capable of providing an attractive magnetic force/function, again improved over the first magnetic field generator.

[00121] It was further found that the second magnetic field generator (of the present disclosure) could quickly and efficiently be activated and deactivated by application of electricity and without generation of significant heat in repelling applications.

[00122] In the present disclosure, all terms referred to in singular form are meant to encompass plural forms of the same. Likewise, all terms referred to in plural form are meant to encompass singular forms of the same. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[00123] As used herein, the term “about” refers to an approximately +/-10 % variation from a given value. It is to be understood that such a variation is always included in any given value provided herein, whether or not it is specifically referred to.

[00124] It should be understood that the compositions and methods are described in terms of "comprising," "containing," or "including" various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also "consist essentially of or "consist of the various components and steps. Moreover, the indefinite articles "a" or "an," as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the element that it introduces.

[00125] For the sake of brevity, only certain ranges are explicitly disclosed herein. However, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, as well as, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any other lower limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, in the same way, ranges from any upper limit may be combined with any other upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited. Additionally, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range are specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, "from about a to about b," or, equivalently, "from approximately a to b," or, equivalently, "from approximately a-b") disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values even if not explicitly recited. Thus, every point or individual value may serve as its own lower or upper limit combined with any other point or individual value or any other lower or upper limit, to recite a range not explicitly recited. [00126] Therefore, the present disclosure is well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the present disclosure may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Although individual embodiments are discussed, the disclosure covers all combinations of all those embodiments. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. It is therefore evident that the particular illustrative embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. If there is any conflict in the usages of a word or term in this specification and one or more patent(s) or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions that are consistent with this specification should be adopted.

[00127] Many obvious variations of the embodiments set out herein will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art in light of the present disclosure. Such obvious variations are within the full intended scope of the appended claims.