Apple wins patent for using electropermanent magnets to improve car suspension systems to reduce energy consumption

 According to foreign media reports, the US Patent and Trademark Office recently officially announced 66 new patents obtained by Apple, one of which is related to Apple’s "Project Titan", which introduces the use of electropermanent magnets (EP) to improve the vehicle's active suspension system and thus reduce vehicle energy consumption.

Image source: patentlyapple.com

The patent, titled "Active Suspension System with Electropermanent Magnets," describes a method for stabilizing a vehicle. The method includes using a control system to identify changes in vehicle operating characteristics, and based on the identified changes, using the control system to output a stabilization command to an actuator system, and based on the received stabilization command, using the actuator system to apply a first magnetic field with a predetermined strength to an electropermanent magnet for a period of time.

Image source: patentlyapple.com

The first magnetic field changes the electropermanent magnet from the first state to the second state, and then the electropermanent magnet generates a second magnetic field to change at least one spring constant or mechanical strength of a suspension component in a vehicle suspension system. After the first magnetic field disappears, the electropermanent magnet remains in the second state for a predetermined duration.

Image source: patentlyapple.com

Apple's patent FIG. 1 shows a car equipped with a novel suspension system; patent FIG. 2 shows an overview of the control system of the car. More specifically, #100 in Apple's patent figure refers to the car, and #102 refers to the body. The body includes beautified and natural interior structures and exterior structures. Apple notes that the car includes a suspension assembly #106, and the suspension assembly generally includes a variety of individual components, many of which are associated with one or more components on the wheel.

In summary, the invention focuses on improving active suspension systems by utilizing electropermanent magnets (EP) or other variable flux magnets.