Null flux magnetic bearing with cross-connected loop portions

Abstract

A magnetic bearing system has magnets for producing magnetic fields, and a member which carries loop portions of electrically conductive material. The member and magnets are relatively rotatable about an axis of rotation so that the loop portions travel along a prescribed circular path relative to and through the magnetic fields. The magnetic fields subject the loop portions to magnetic flux to produce electromotive forces in the loop portions when the loop portions deviate from the prescribed circular path. This induces an electrical current in the loop portions. The direction of this electrical current is such that, in the presence of the magnetic fields, Lorentz forces are exerted on the loop portions and the loop-carrying member in directions which are lateral with respect to the circular path. To avoid undesired current flow when the member is rotating on its prescribed axis, at least the first and second loop portions are electrically interconnected to form a closed loop. The interconnected loop portions are circumferentially spaced from each other and they lie in circumferentially spaced magnetic fields.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.