Apparatus, system and method for exchanging data in rotary electrical connector

Abstract

Example apparatus, systems, and methods for exchanging data and power in a rotating electrical connector are provided. An example rotary electrical connector may include a connector housing within which a first connector portion and a second connector portion are disposed. The first connector portion may include a first wireless transceiver electrically connected with a first computing device. The second connector portion may include a second wireless transceiver electrically connected with a second computing device. In addition, the second connector portion may rotate relative to the connector housing. In addition, the first computing device and the second computing device may exchange electronic data through the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver. In some embodiments, the first computing device may also include a power source, and the power source may power the second computing device through the mechanical slip ring connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to rotating electrical connectors and, more particularly, to communicating data in rotating electrical connectors using wireless transceivers. Background Art

[0002] Various example embodiments address technical issues associated with exchanging data in rotating electrical connectors, such as slip ring connectors. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, there are many example scenarios in which a user may need to exchange data between computing devices via rotating electrical connectors.

[0003] For example, many electronic systems utilize slip ring connectors to exchange data between stationary or fixed computing devices and rotating computing devices. One approach that has been used is to design a slip ring connector with two parts: a stator portion that remains stationary and a rotor portion that rotates. In some embodiments, the rotor portion may include one or more conductive disks, while the stator portion includes an equal number of conductive pins. The conductive pins are pressed against the conductive disks, creating an electrical connection through contact with the disks. The conductive disks can continue to rotate while the conductive pins slide along the surface of the disks.

[0004] Applicants have recognized the numerous technical challenges and difficulties associated with transferring power and data between computing devices in rotating electrical connectors. Through effort, ingenuity, and innovation, Applicants have addressed the problems associated with transferring data in rotating electrical connectors by developing the solutions embodied in the present disclosure, which are described in detail below. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various embodiments are directed to example apparatus, systems, and methods for communicating data in a rotating electrical connector.

[0006] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an example rotating electrical connector is provided. The rotating electrical connector may include a connector housing, a first connector portion disposed within the connector housing, and a second connector portion disposed within the connector housing. The first connector portion may include a first wireless transceiver, wherein the first connector portion is electrically connected to a first computing device. The second connector portion may include a second wireless transceiver, wherein the second connector portion is electrically connected to a second computing device. Furthermore, the second connector portion may be rotatable relative to the connector housing. Furthermore, the first computing device and the second computing device may exchange electronic data via the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first connector portion may be secured to the connector housing.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second connector portion can be rotated at least 360 degrees relative to the connector housing.

[0009] In some embodiments, the second computing device may be associated with the imaging device.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second computing device may be associated with a remote sensing device that measures the position and / or velocity of an object using electromagnetic waves.

[0011] In some embodiments, the rotary electrical connector may further comprise a mechanical slip ring connector, wherein the first mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive ring and the second mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive pin, wherein the conductive pin is configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first computing device further includes a power supply, wherein the power supply can provide power to the second computing device via a mechanical slip ring connector.

[0013] In some embodiments, a first data portion of the electronic data may be transmitted via a mechanical slip ring connector and a second data portion of the electronic data may be transmitted via a first wireless transceiver and a second wireless transceiver, wherein the first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted at a lower data rate than the second data portion of the electronic data.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver may transmit electronic data at a wavelength between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the separation distance between the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver may be greater than 1 mm and less than 30 mm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver each include an antenna configured to generate and receive circularly polarized electromagnetic waves.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an example system is also provided. The example system may include a rotation sensing device, a controller, and a rotating electrical connector. The example rotating electrical connector may include a connector housing, a first connector portion disposed within the connector housing, and a second connector portion disposed within the connector housing. The first connector portion may include a first wireless transceiver, wherein the first connector portion is electrically connected to a first computing device. The second connector portion may include a second wireless transceiver, wherein the second connector portion is electrically connected to a second computing device. Furthermore, the second connector portion may be rotatable relative to the connector housing. In addition, the first computing device and the second computing device may exchange electronic data via the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rotation sensing device may be one of an imaging device, a radar transceiver, and a lidar transceiver.

[0019] In some embodiments, the system may further include a mechanical slip ring connector, wherein the first mechanical slip ring connector portion includes a conductive ring and the second mechanical slip ring connector portion includes a conductive pin, wherein the conductive pin is configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring.

[0020] In some embodiments, the controller may further include a power supply, wherein the power supply provides power to the rotation sensing device through a mechanical slip ring connector.

[0021] In some embodiments, a first data portion of the electronic data may be transmitted via a mechanical slip ring connector and a second data portion of the electronic data may be transmitted via a first wireless transceiver and a second wireless transceiver, wherein the first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted at a lower data rate than the second data portion of the electronic data.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver may transmit electronic data at a wavelength between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver may each include an antenna configured to generate and receive circularly polarized electromagnetic waves.

[0024] Additionally provided is an example method for transmitting data in a rotating electrical connector. In some embodiments, the rotating electrical connector may include: a connector housing; a first connector portion disposed within the connector housing, the first connector portion being electrically connected to a first computing device and including a first wireless transceiver; and a second connector portion disposed within the connector housing, the second connector portion being electrically connected to a second computing device and including a second wireless transceiver. Furthermore, the second connector portion may be rotatable relative to the connector housing. In some embodiments, the method may include transmitting first electronic data from the first wireless transceiver, receiving the first electronic data at the second wireless transceiver, transmitting second electronic data from the second wireless transceiver, and receiving the second electronic data at the first wireless transceiver.

[0025] In some embodiments, the rotary electrical connector may further include a mechanical slip ring connector, the mechanical slip ring connector comprising: a first mechanical slip ring connector portion including a conductive ring; and a second mechanical slip ring connector portion including a conductive pin, wherein the conductive pin is configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring, and wherein the first computing device further comprises a power supply. The method may further include: receiving power from the power supply; and transmitting the power to the second computing device via electrical contact between the conductive pin and the conductive ring. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. Components illustrated in the accompanying drawings may or may not be present in certain embodiments described herein. According to example embodiments of the present disclosure, some embodiments may include fewer (or more) components than those shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 An example prior art slip ring connector utilized in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0028] Figure 2 An example rotating electrical connector connecting two computing devices is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 Illustrated is a cross-section of an example rotary electrical connector according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 4 A cross-section of an example rotary electrical connector from another angle is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 An example rotary electrical connector including wireless transmission and transmission through a slip ring connector is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 6 A block diagram of an example system utilizing a rotating electrical connector is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 7 An example block diagram illustrating example components of a controller according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0034] Figure 8 Depicted is a flow chart of an example method for exchanging data and power in a rotating electrical connector according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Example embodiments will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosed invention. Indeed, embodiments of the disclosed invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0036] Various example embodiments address technical issues associated with exchanging data in rotating electrical connectors, such as slip ring connectors. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, there are many example scenarios in which a user may need to exchange data between computing devices via rotating electrical connectors.

[0037] Rotating electrical connectors enable the transfer of power and / or data between stationary and rotating electrical components. Numerous technologies exist that could benefit from the use of rotating electrical connectors. Examples include industrial machinery, robotics, wind turbines, cameras, remote sensing devices (e.g., radar, lidar sensors), and / or other similar electromechanical devices. As a specific example, a security camera may include a fixed base mounted on a surface and an imaging device comprising a lens and optical sensor capable of rotation and / or yaw, pitch, and roll movement. One approach that has been used to provide electrical connectivity between stationary and rotating computing devices is to maintain a physical or mechanical connection between the two computing devices. This physical or mechanical connection can be maintained by electrically connecting the rotating computing device to one or a series of rotating conductive disks (e.g., a rotor). Furthermore, the stationary computing device can be electrically connected to one or a series of conductive pins that are in electrical contact with the rotating conductive disk (e.g., a stator). This approach allows the conductive disk to rotate while the conductive pins maintain contact with the disk. However, over time, the performance of the conductive pins that slide on the conductive disk may degrade. Furthermore, in some instances, the conductive pins may lose contact with the disk. Over time, electrical connections can weaken and data transmission can become unreliable, especially at high frequencies.

[0038] Another approach to data transmission in rotating electrical connectors is to use optical signals. In this embodiment, optical signals are transmitted by a fixed transceiver in the rotating electrical connector and received by a rotating optical transceiver, and vice versa. However, such rotating electrical connectors can experience significant losses, resulting in signal degradation, primarily due to angular and axial misalignment.

[0039] Various example embodiments described herein utilize various techniques for transmitting data within a rotating electrical connector. For example, in some embodiments, a stationary computing device can be electrically connected to a fixed wireless transceiver attached to a stator within the connector housing. Furthermore, a rotating computing device can be electrically connected to a rotating wireless transceiver attached to a rotor also within the connector housing. The fixed wireless transceiver and the rotating wireless transceiver can be directed toward each other, with a certain distance between the two wireless transceivers. Data transmitted from the stationary computing device to the rotating computing device can be transmitted from the stationary computing device to the fixed wireless transceiver. The data can then be transmitted by the fixed wireless transceiver and received by the rotating wireless transceiver electrically connected to the rotating computing device. Similarly, data transmitted from the rotating computing device to the stationary computing device can be transmitted by the rotating wireless transceiver and received by the fixed wireless transceiver electrically connected to the stationary computing device. Communication achieved through the fixed wireless transceiver and the rotating wireless transceiver can allow the rotating computing device to rotate continuously without causing strain or wear on the mechanical electrical contacts.

[0040] To support higher data rates (e.g., data rates greater than 100 megabits per second), in some embodiments, the wireless transceiver may include components operating at frequencies between 30 GHz (10 mm wavelength) and 300 GHz (1 mm wavelength), capable of transmitting data at rates between 100 megabits per second and 10 gigabits per second. Additionally, the wireless transceiver may include an antenna capable of transmitting circularly polarized waves, enabling high-speed data transmission and reception regardless of the rotational relationship between the transmitting and receiving wireless transceivers.

[0041] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotating electrical connector may include a mechanical slip ring connection for physical connection. The mechanical slip ring connection may be utilized to transmit power and data transmitted at a lower frequency. Transmitting power using a mechanical slip ring connection may provide more efficient power transmission than transmitting power wirelessly.

[0042] Due to the example embodiments described herein and in some examples, the reliability of high-speed data transmission in rotating electrical connectors can be significantly improved. In addition, in some embodiments, low data rate data and power can continue to be transmitted through the mechanical slip ring connection.

[0043] Now see Figure 1 , an example prior art slip ring connector 100 is provided that electrically connects to a stationary computing device 102 and a rotating computing device 104. Figure 1 As depicted in , the example slip ring connector 100 includes a rotating portion (e.g., a rotor portion 114) that is permitted to rotate within a stationary portion (e.g., a stator portion 116). The rotor portion 114 also includes a plurality of conductive rings 112 that are attached to the rotor portion 114 and surround the exterior of the rotor portion 114. The conductive rings 112 are configured to rotate as the rotor portion 114 rotates within the stator portion 116 of the slip ring connector 100. Each conductive ring 112 is electrically connected to a wire of a rotating wired connection 106, wherein the rotating wired connection 106 provides an electrical connection between the conductive ring 112 and the rotating computing device 104. In instances where the rotating computing device 104 rotates, the rotating wired connection 106, the rotor portion 114, and the conductive rings 112 all rotate synchronously. As shown Figure 1As further depicted, slip ring connector 100 also includes a brush block 118 that is attached to stationary stator portion 116 and extends beyond at least a portion of rotor portion 114. A plurality of conductive pins 110, or brushes, are attached to brush block 118. Each conductive pin 110 extends from brush block 118 and contacts one of a plurality of conductive rings 112. Each conductive pin 110 is also electrically connected to a wire of a fixed wired connection 108, which provides an electrical connection between the conductive pins 110 and stationary computing device 102. In instances where rotating computing device 104 and rotor portion 114 rotate, conductive pins 110 slide on the surface of conductive ring 112, thereby maintaining an electrical connection between stationary computing device 102 and rotating computing device 104 via fixed wired connection 108 and rotating wired connection 106.

[0044] As described herein, the connection between the conductive ring 112 and the conductive pins 110 may become unstable or deformed. In such instances, the electrical connection may become unreliable, such that data transmitted between the stationary computing device 102 and the rotating computing device 104 may be partially or completely lost. Unreliable electrical connections are particularly problematic for data transmitted at higher frequencies and / or higher data rates.

[0045] like Figure 1 As depicted in FIG, an example slip ring connector 100 provides a physical electrical connection between a stationary computing device 102 and a rotating computing device 104. The stationary computing device 102 can be any machine or device including hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof, and configured to execute instructions and / or hard-coded functionality to perform operations defined by the particular device. Additionally, the stationary computing device 102 can be attached and / or fixed relative to the rotating computing device 104 such that the stationary computing device 102, the stator portion 116, the brush block 118, and the conductive pins 110 remain stationary while the rotor portion 114 rotates within the stator portion 116. For example, the stationary computing device 102 can be a controller within a base of a security camera. Although primarily depicted as being stationary, in some embodiments, the stationary computing device 102 can also rotate, move, and / or otherwise change position relative to the slip ring connector 100.

[0046] like Figure 1As further depicted in FIG, the slip ring connector 100 is electrically connected to a rotating computing device 104. The rotating computing device 104 can be any machine, circuit board, chip, or device including hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof, configured to receive electrical signals and execute instructions and / or hard-coded functionality to perform operations defined by the specific device. Additionally, the rotating computing device 104 can be configured to rotate relative to the stationary computing device 102. In some embodiments, the rotor portion 114 of the slip ring connector 100 can rotate with the rotating computing device 104, such that the rotor portion 114 remains stationary relative to the rotating computing device 104, but the rotor portion rotates within the stator portion 116 of the slip ring connector 100. An example rotating computing device 104 can be a camera device, such as a security camera, mounted to a fixed base and capable of movement. Further examples include rotating radar and / or lidar sensors, including, for example, radar and lidar transceivers mounted on a car or drone. Radar, lidar, and similar technologies can transmit electromagnetic waves and receive reflected electromagnetic waves to measure the position and / or velocity of an object.

[0047] Now see Figure 2 , an example rotating electrical connector 200 is provided that electrically connects a stationary computing device 202 and a rotating computing device 204. Figure 2 As depicted in FIG, the rotating electrical connector 200 includes a connector housing 230 that encloses a rotating antenna 222 that is electrically connected to the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and is also electrically connected to the rotating computing device 204 via a rotating data transmission line 226. Figure 2 As depicted in FIG, the rotation computing device 204 may include an interface chip 210 and a processor 214. Figure 2 As depicted in FIG, the rotation computing device 204 may include an interface chip 210 and a processor 214. Figure 2 As further depicted in FIG, the connector housing 230 also encloses the fixed antenna 224. Figure 2 , the rotating antenna 222 is pointed toward the fixed antenna 224 and is configured to transmit and receive wireless data 232 to the fixed antenna 224. The fixed antenna 224 is electrically connected to the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 and to the stationary computing device 202 via a fixed data transmission line 228.

[0048] like Figure 2As depicted in FIG, the example rotating electrical connector 200 includes a connector housing 230. The connector housing 230 can be any housing, enclosure, compartment, and / or similar structure configured to enclose the internal components of the rotating electrical connector 200. The connector housing 230 can include plastic, reinforced plastic, aluminum, steel, and / or any other material configured to protect, stabilize, and / or facilitate movement of the internal components of the rotating electrical connector 200. In some embodiments, the connector housing 230 can enclose the rotating wireless transceiver board 218, the rotating antenna 222, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220, the fixed antenna 224, and other internal components. In some embodiments, the connector housing 230 can provide surfaces and / or attachment points for securing the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 and / or the fixed antenna 224 to the connector housing 230. In some embodiments, the connector housing 230 can include rolling bearings (such as ball bearings) to facilitate rotation of the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and the rotating antenna 222 within the connector housing 230. Furthermore, the connector housing 230 can be configured to attach the internal components of the rotating electrical connector 200 (e.g., the rotating wireless transceiver board 218, the rotating antenna 222, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220, the fixed antenna 224) so ​​that the fixed antenna 224 and the rotating antenna 222 can transmit and receive data to and from each other. In this instance, the antenna portions of the wireless transceivers (e.g., the rotating antenna 222, the fixed antenna 224) can be pointed toward each other. Additionally, the wireless transceivers can be fixed at a distance (e.g., a separation distance) to facilitate reliable transmission of electronic data without physical contact. For example, in some embodiments, the rotating antenna 222 and the fixed antenna 224 can be positioned such that the distance between the rotating antenna 222 and the fixed antenna 224 is between 0.1 mm and 100 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 50 mm, and most preferably between 1 mm and 30 mm.

[0049] like Figure 2 As further depicted in FIG, the rotating electrical connector 200 includes a fixed wireless transceiver board 220 and a fixed antenna 224 positioned within a connector housing 230. In some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 and the fixed antenna 224 can be manufactured as a single component, referred to herein as a fixed wireless transceiver. The fixed wireless transceiver board 220 can include any insulating material (such as fiberglass or plastic) and provides a conductive path between electrical components. For example, Figure 2The fixed wireless transceiver board 220 depicted in FIG can provide an electrical path between the fixed data transmission line 228 and the fixed antenna 224. In addition, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 can provide for the attachment and / or placement of electrical components, such as the attachment and / or placement of the fixed antenna 224 on a surface of the fixed wireless transceiver board 220. In some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 can facilitate transmission and reception on an antenna array. In some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 can be attached to a stator portion of the connector housing 230 (e.g., stator portion 316, as in conjunction with FIG). Figure 3 ), such that the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 and the fixed antenna 224 maintain a static orientation relative to the connector housing 230.

[0050] like Figure 2 As further depicted in FIG, the fixed wireless transceiver board 220 can be coupled to a fixed antenna 224. The fixed antenna 224 can be any component or device configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The fixed antenna 224 can include one or more antennas and accompanying hardware, software, and / or firmware configured to facilitate the transmission and reception of electronic data, such as electronic data exchanged between the stationary computing device 202 and the rotating computing device 204. In some embodiments, the hardware, software, and / or firmware supporting the transmission and reception of electronic data can be included on the fixed wireless transceiver board 220.

[0051] The fixed wireless transceiver can implement several features and strategies to enable the transmission of electronic data (e.g., wireless data 232) at high data rates. For example, in some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver can support full-duplex electronic data transmission, thereby enabling simultaneous transmission and reception of wireless data 232. Furthermore, the fixed wireless transceiver can support various modulation schemes for encoding wireless data 232, such as an amplitude shift keying (ASK) modulation scheme, in which the amplitude of a carrier wave is varied to represent electronic data. Furthermore, wireless data 232 can be encoded using other modulation schemes, such as a frequency shift keying (FSK) modulation scheme and a phase shift keying (PSK) modulation scheme. The fixed wireless transceiver can also support encoding wireless data 232 using a non-return-to-zero (NRZ) method, thereby further enabling the transmission of wireless data 232 at higher data rates. In some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver can transmit wireless data 232 using a differential signaling method, such as serial low voltage signaling (SLVS), thereby enabling the transmission and reception of wireless data 232 over two conductors. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver may include multiple antennas formed in an array, thereby enabling the transmission of wireless data 232 using techniques such as beamforming.

[0052] Such technology can enable a fixed wireless transceiver to support high frequencies and fast data rates. For example, in some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver can support the transmission and reception of wireless data 232 in the millimeter frequency band. The millimeter frequency band can include a wavelength spectrum between 10 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Thus, in some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver can transmit and receive wireless data 232 at frequencies between 30 gigahertz and 300 gigahertz; more preferably, between 40 and 75 gigahertz; and most preferably, between 58 and 62 gigahertz. Transmitting wireless data 232 in the millimeter frequency band can enable the fixed wireless transceiver to transmit and receive data at data rates between 100 megabits per second and 10 gigabits per second.

[0053] Additionally, the fixed wireless transceiver may be configured to utilize electromagnetic waves having circular polarization to transmit and receive wireless data 232. Transmitting and receiving wireless data 232 using circular polarization may enable stable data transmission between the fixed wireless transceiver and the rotating wireless transceiver, even when the rotating wireless transceiver rotates about an axis relative to the fixed wireless transceiver.

[0054] In some embodiments, the fixed wireless transceiver may include a device similar to ST Manufactured ST60A2 transceiver.

[0055] like Figure 2 As further depicted in FIG, the rotating electrical connector 200 includes a rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and a rotating antenna 222 positioned within a connector housing 230, wherein the rotating antenna 222 is directed toward a fixed antenna 224. In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and the rotating antenna 222 can be manufactured as a single component, referred to herein as a rotating wireless transceiver. The rotating wireless transceiver board 218 can include any insulating material (such as fiberglass or plastic) that contains conductive pathways between electronic components. For example, Figure 2 The rotating wireless transceiver board 218 depicted in FIG2 can provide an electrical path between the rotating data transmission line 226 and the rotating antenna 222. In addition, the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 can provide for the attachment and / or placement of electrical components, such as the attachment and / or placement of the rotating antenna 222 on the surface of the rotating wireless transceiver board 218. In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 can facilitate transmission and reception on the antenna array.

[0056] like Figure 2As further depicted in , the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 can be coupled to a rotating antenna 222. The rotating antenna 222 can be any component or device configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The rotating antenna 222 can include one or more antennas and accompanying hardware, software, and / or firmware configured to facilitate the transmission and reception of electronic data, such as electronic data exchanged between the stationary computing device 202 and the rotating computing device 204. In some embodiments, the hardware, software, and / or firmware supporting the transmission and reception of electronic data can be included on the rotating wireless transceiver board 218. In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 can be attached to the rotor portion of the connector housing 230 (e.g., with respect to the Figure 3 The rotor portion 338 , further described, causes the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and the rotating antenna 222 to rotate within the connector housing 230 . In such an embodiment, the rotating wireless transceiver board 218 and the rotating antenna 222 also rotate relative to the fixed antenna 224 .

[0057] The rotating wireless transceiver can implement several features and strategies to enable the transmission of electronic data (e.g., wireless data 232) at high data rates. For example, in some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver can support full-duplex electronic data transmission, thereby enabling simultaneous transmission and reception of wireless data 232. Furthermore, the rotating wireless transceiver can support various modulation schemes for encoding wireless data 232, such as an amplitude shift keying (ASK) modulation scheme, in which the amplitude of a carrier wave is varied to represent electronic data. Furthermore, wireless data 232 can be encoded using other modulation schemes, such as a frequency shift keying (FSK) modulation scheme and a phase shift keying (PSK) modulation scheme. The rotating wireless transceiver can also support encoding wireless data 232 using a non-return-to-zero (NRZ) method, thereby further enabling the transmission of wireless data 232 at higher data rates. In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver can transmit wireless data 232 using a differential signaling method, such as serial low voltage signaling (SLVS), thereby enabling the transmission and reception of wireless data 232 via two conductors. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver may include multiple antennas formed in an array, thereby enabling the transmission of wireless data 232 using techniques such as beamforming.

[0058] Such technology can enable the rotating wireless transceiver to support high frequencies and fast data rates. For example, in some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver can support the transmission and reception of wireless data 232 in the millimeter frequency band. The millimeter frequency band can include a wavelength spectrum between 10 millimeters and 1 millimeter. Thus, in some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver can transmit and receive wireless data 232 at frequencies between 30 gigahertz and 300 gigahertz; more preferably, between 40 and 75 gigahertz; and most preferably, between 58 and 62 gigahertz. Transmitting electronic data in the millimeter frequency band can enable the rotating wireless transceiver to transmit and receive data at data rates between 100 megabits per second and 10 gigabits per second.

[0059] Additionally, the rotating wireless transceiver may be configured to utilize electromagnetic waves having circular polarization to transmit and receive wireless data 232. Using circular polarization to transmit and receive wireless data 232 enables stable data transmission between the fixed wireless transceiver and the rotating wireless transceiver, even when the rotating wireless transceiver rotates about its axis relative to the fixed wireless transceiver.

[0060] In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver may include a device similar to ST Manufactured ST60A2 transceiver.

[0061] like Figure 2 As further depicted in the example rotating electrical connector 200, the example rotating electrical connector 200 can be electrically connected to the stationary computing device 202 using a fixed data transmission line 228 and electrically connected to the rotating computing device 204 using a rotating data transmission line 226. The data transmission lines (e.g., fixed data transmission line 228, rotating data transmission line 226) can be any wire, cord, channel, waveguide, or other line configured to transmit electronic data, such as a conductive cable and / or a fiber optic cable. The data transmission lines communicatively connect the associated devices to the rotating electrical connector 200. As further described herein, the fixed data transmission line 228 can be connected to the fixed portion of the rotating electrical connector 200 and to the fixed wireless transceiver board 220. The rotating data transmission line 226 can be connected to the rotating portion of the rotating electrical connector 200 and to the rotating wireless transceiver board 218.

[0062] like Figure 2As further depicted in FIG, the stationary computing device 202 and the rotating computing device 204 may include an interface chip (e.g., interface chips 210, 212) and a processor (e.g., processors 214, 216). In some embodiments, the interface chips 210, 212 may convert data received from the rotating electrical connector 200 and an onboard wireless transceiver (e.g., a rotating wireless transceiver, a fixed wireless transceiver) into a protocol recognizable by the processors 214, 216. In addition, the interface chips 210, 212 may convert electronic data to be transmitted via the rotating electrical connector 200 into a protocol recognizable by the onboard wireless transceiver. For example, in some embodiments, the onboard wireless transceiver may utilize 8-bit / 10-bit encoding to transmit data from one wireless transceiver to another wireless transceiver. The interface chips 210, 212 may convert the electronic data to or from 8-bit / 10-bit encoding to facilitate transmission across the rotating electrical connector 200.

[0063] The stationary computing device 202 and the rotating computing device 204 may also include processors 214, 216. The processors 214, 216 may be arbitrarily configured to execute instructions stored in a data storage memory accessible to the processors. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the processors 214, 216 may be configured to execute hard-coded functionality. As such, whether configured through hardware, software methods, or a combination of both, the processors 214, 216 represent entities (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry) that are capable of performing operations in accordance with the operation of a particular device. In conjunction with a controller (e.g., reference Figure 6 Controller 602 shown), the specific embodiment of the example processor will be combined with Figure 7 Further description is given.

[0064] Now see Figure 3 , provides a cross-section of an example rotary electrical connector 300. Figure 3 As depicted in FIG, the example rotating electrical connector 300 includes a rotor portion 338 (e.g., a second connector portion) attached to a rotating transceiver base 334 that is configured to attach to a rotating wireless transceiver board 318 including a rotating antenna 322 (e.g., a rotating wireless transceiver). Figure 3 As depicted in FIG, the rotating wireless transceiver board 318 and associated rotating antenna 322 are configured to rotate within the connector housing 330. Additionally, the rotating data transmission line 326 is electrically connected to the rotor portion 338 of the rotating electrical connector 300 and subsequently electrically connected to the rotating wireless transceiver, thereby providing communication with a rotating computing device (e.g., as in conjunction with a Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electrical connection of the rotation calculation device 204).

[0065] like Figure 3 As further depicted in FIG, the rotating antenna 322 is directed toward the fixed antenna 324 separated by a separation distance 342 so that reliable transmission of electronic data can be achieved without wearing out the mechanical slip ring connection. Figure 3 As depicted in FIG, the fixed antenna 324 and the associated fixed wireless transceiver board 320 (e.g., a fixed wireless transceiver) are attached to the fixed transceiver base 336. Subsequently, the fixed transceiver base 336 is attached to the stator portion 316 (e.g., the first connector portion) of the connector housing 330. Thus, the fixed antenna 324 is fixed relative to the connector housing 330, while the rotating antenna 322 rotates relative to the connector housing 330 and the fixed antenna 324. Figure 3 As further depicted in FIG, the fixed wireless transceiver is electrically connected to a fixed data transmission line 328, thereby providing communication with a stationary computing device (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electrical connections of the stationary computing device 202 are described.

[0066] Now see Figure 4 , provides another perspective view of an example rotary electrical connector 400. Figure 4 , the example rotating electrical connector 400 includes a rotating antenna 422 and a rotating wireless transceiver board 418 (e.g., a rotating wireless transceiver) attached to a rotating transceiver base 434 of a rotor portion 438 (e.g., a second connector portion) of the rotating electrical connector 400. Furthermore, the rotating antenna 422 is electrically connected to a rotating computing device (e.g., rotating computing devices 104, 204) via a plurality of rotating data transmission lines 426.

[0067] like Figure 4 As further depicted in FIG, the rotating antenna 422 is directed toward the fixed antenna 424 and is separated by a separation distance 442. Figure 4 As depicted in FIG, the fixed antenna 424 and the associated fixed wireless transceiver board 420 (e.g., a fixed wireless transceiver) are attached to the fixed transceiver base 436. Subsequently, the fixed transceiver base 436 is attached to the stator portion 416 (e.g., the first connector portion) of the connector housing 430. Thus, the fixed antenna 424 is fixed relative to the connector housing 430, while the rotating antenna 422 rotates relative to the connector housing 430 and the fixed antenna 424. Figure 4 As further depicted in , the fixed wireless transceiver is electrically connected to the fixed data transmission line 428, thereby providing an electrical connection to the stationary computing device (eg, the stationary computing device 102, 202).

[0068] Now see Figure 5, an example rotary electrical connector 500 is provided, which includes the slip ring connector 100 and a non-contact rotary electrical connector 534 (eg, rotary electrical connectors 200, 300, 400). Figure 5 As depicted in FIG, a rotating electrical connector 500 electrically connects a stationary computing device 502 to a rotating computing device 504 via internal components of the rotating electrical connector 500. The physical electrical connection (e.g., a mechanical slip ring connection) between the stationary computing device 502 and the rotating computing device 504 is provided by the slip ring connector 100. Figure 5 As depicted in FIG, a stationary computing device 502 is electrically connected to a brush block 536 attached to a stator portion 516 of a slip ring connector 100 via a fixed wired connection 508. As described herein, the brush block 536 includes a plurality of conductive pins 510, each corresponding to a wire or line of the fixed wired connection 508. An example rotating computing device 504 is connected to the rotor portion 514 of the slip ring connector 100, which includes a plurality of conductive rings 512. As described herein, each conductive ring corresponds to a wire or line of the rotating wired connection. The conductive pins 510 are pressed against the conductive rings 512, thereby establishing a physical electrical connection or mechanical slip ring connection between the stationary computing device 502 and the rotating computing device 504.

[0069] The mechanical slip ring connection established by the slip ring connector 100 is particularly suitable for power transmission and electronic data at lower data rates (e.g., data transmitted at less than 100 megabits per second). Compared to wireless transmission of power, a mechanical slip ring connection can provide reliable and efficient power transmission. In addition, when the mechanical slip ring connection begins to wear, data transmitted at a lower data rate is less likely to be corrupted or fail to transmit. Electronic data suitable for transmission at a lower data rate can include control and command data, such as a data message requesting an update of a camera position or configuring a camera output.

[0070] like Figure 5 As further depicted in FIG, a high-speed contactless data connection between a stationary computing device 502 and a rotating computing device 504 is provided by a rotating electrical connector 500. Figure 5 As depicted in FIG, the stationary computing device 502 also includes a set of fixed data transmission lines 528. The fixed data transmission lines 528 are electrically connected to the fixed wireless transceiver board 520 and the fixed antenna 524 (referred to herein as the fixed wireless transceiver) of the contactless rotating electrical connector 534. The stationary computing device 502 can transmit and receive electronic data via the fixed data transmission lines 528. The fixed antenna 524 and the fixed wireless transceiver board 520 can be attached to the stator portion 516 of the connector housing 530 so that the fixed wireless transceiver remains fixed relative to the connector housing 530. The fixed wireless transceiver can be configured to transmit wireless data 532 to and receive wireless data 532 from the rotating wireless transceiver.

[0071] In addition, if Figure 5 , the rotating computing device 504 can be electrically connected to the rotating antenna 522 and the rotating wireless transceiver board 518 (referred to herein as the rotating wireless transceiver) via a rotating data transmission line 526. In some embodiments, the rotating wireless transceiver can be attached or otherwise connected to the rotor portion 514 of the slip ring connector 100 so that the rotating wireless transceiver can rotate within the connector housing 530. In some embodiments, the contactless rotating electrical connector 534 can include a separate shaft so that the rotating wireless transceiver can rotate relative to the connector housing 530.

[0072] The high-speed, contactless data connection created by the contactless rotating electrical connector 534 is particularly well-suited for data transmission requiring high data rates, such as electronic data transmitted at frequencies exceeding 30 GHz and requiring data rates exceeding 100 megabits per second. The high-speed, contactless connection can provide a reliable data connection even after the mechanical slip ring connection begins to wear or deform. Electronic data requiring transmission at higher data rates can include high-capacity data, such as video streams from security cameras.

[0073] Now see Figure 6 , provides an example block diagram of a system 600 utilizing a rotating electrical connector 606. Figure 6 , the system includes a controller 602 electrically connected to a rotational sensing device 604 via a rotating electrical connector 606. The rotating electrical connector includes a fixed connector portion 640 (e.g., a first connector portion) that includes a fixed wireless transceiver 624. The rotating electrical connector 606 also includes a rotating connector portion 638 (e.g., a second connector portion) that includes a rotating transceiver 622.

[0074] like Figure 6 As depicted in , the example system 600 includes a controller 602. The controller 602 may include any processing device, machine, microcontroller, or other electronic device configured to send and receive electronic data to the rotation sensing device 604. In some embodiments, the controller 602 may issue commands to control and configure the operation of the rotation sensing device 604, such as controlling the position of the rotation sensing device 604. In some embodiments, the controller 602 may also include a power supply for supplying power to the rotation sensing device. In such embodiments, the rotational electrical connector 606 may also include a slip ring connector (e.g., slip ring connector 100) for transmitting power to the rotational sensing device 604 through the rotational electrical connector 606. Figure 7 The example controller 602 is further described.

[0075] like Figure 6 As depicted in , the example system 600 includes a rotational sensing device 604. The rotational sensing device 604 can be any sensor or device, including hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof, configured to collect data related to the physical environment surrounding the rotational sensing device 604. Additionally, the rotational sensing device 604 can be configured to rotate relative to the controller 602. Non-limiting examples of the rotational sensing device 604 can include radar and / or lidar sensors and associated circuitry, cameras and / or other imaging devices, and the like. The rotational sensing device 604 can be configured to receive commands and configuration electronic data from the controller 602. For example, the rotational sensing device 604 can receive configuration parameters related to exposure time, ISO sensitivity, white balance, shutter speed, gain, frame rate, dynamic range, bit depth, update rate, frame rate, and other parameters related to the received electronic data. In addition, the rotational sensing device 604 can receive configuration data related to the position of the rotational sensing device 604. For example, the controller 602 can direct the rotational sensing device 604 to a specific yaw, pitch, and roll based on the electronic data received from the rotational sensing device 604. The rotational sensing device 604 can also be configured to provide electronic data to the controller 602. For example, the rotational sensing device 604 can transmit image data and / or other sensory data to the controller 602. Such data may need to be transmitted at a high frequency (e.g., greater than 30 gigahertz) and / or a high data rate (e.g., greater than 100 megabits per second). The rotating electrical connector 606 can utilize the rotating transceiver 622 and the fixed wireless transceiver 624 to reliably transmit such high-speed data.

[0076] Now see Figure 7 , Figure 7 An example controller 602 is illustrated in accordance with at least some example embodiments of the present disclosure. The example controller 602 includes a processor 702, input / output circuitry 704, a data storage medium 706, communication circuitry 708, and a rotary electrical connector interface circuit 710. In some embodiments, the controller 602 is configured to use one or more of the sets of circuitry 702, 704, 706, 708, and / or 710 to perform the operations described herein.

[0077] Although components are described with functional limitations, it should be understood that specific implementations necessarily include the use of specific computing hardware. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, certain components described herein include similar or common hardware. For example, two sets of circuits can utilize the same (multiple) processors, (multiple) network interfaces, (multiple) storage media, etc. to perform their associated functions, so each set of circuits does not need to use duplicate hardware. Therefore, the term "circuitry" used herein with respect to components of the device should be understood to include specific hardware configured to perform the functions associated with the specific circuits described herein.

[0078] Specifically, the term "circuitry" should be broadly interpreted to include hardware and, in some embodiments, software for configuring the hardware. For example, in some embodiments, "circuitry" includes processing circuitry, storage media, network interfaces, input / output devices, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, other elements of controller 602 provide or supplement the functionality of other specific groups of circuits. For example, in some embodiments, processor 702 provides processing functionality for any group of circuits, data storage media 706 provides storage functionality for any group of circuits, communication circuitry 708 provides network interface functionality for any group of circuits, and so on.

[0079] In some embodiments, the processor 702 (and / or a coprocessor or any other processing circuitry assisting or otherwise associated with the processor) communicates with the data storage medium 706 via a bus to transfer information between components of the controller 602. In some embodiments, for example, the data storage medium 706 is non-transitory and may include, for example, one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, in some embodiments, the data storage medium 706 includes or embodies an electronic storage device (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium). In some embodiments, the data storage medium 706 is configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc. to enable the controller 602 to perform various functions in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0080] The processor 702 can be implemented in a number of different ways. For example, in some example embodiments, the processor 702 includes one or more processing devices configured to execute independently. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 702 includes one or more processors configured in series via a bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, and / or multi-threading. The use of the terms "processor" and "processing circuitry" should be understood to include a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, multiple processors within the controller 602, and / or one or more remote or "cloud" processors external to the controller 602.

[0081] In an example embodiment, the processor 702 is configured to execute instructions stored in the data storage medium 706 or accessible to the processor. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 702 is configured to execute hard-coded functionality. Thus, whether configured by hardware, software methods, or a combination of both, the processor 702 represents an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry) capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present disclosure after being configured accordingly. Additionally or alternatively, in some example embodiments, as another example, when the processor 702 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions specifically configure the processor 702 to perform the algorithms embodied in the specific operations described herein when such instructions are executed.

[0082] As a specific example embodiment, processor 702 is configured to perform various operations associated with initializing a rotational sensing device (e.g., rotational sensing device 604) and interacting with the rotational sensing device. In some embodiments, processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof for transmitting low data rate messages to the rotational sensing device via a rotating electrical connector (e.g., rotating electrical connector 606, rotating electrical connector 500). Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof for transmitting power to the rotational sensing device via the rotating electrical connector. In some embodiments, processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof for transmitting power and / or low data rate messages to the rotational sensing device via a mechanical slip ring connection within the rotating electrical connector. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof for transmitting high data rate messages to the rotational sensing device via the rotating electrical connector. In some embodiments, processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof for transmitting high data rate messages to the rotational sensing device via a high-speed contactless data connection within the rotating electrical connector. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof to receive low data rate messages, for example, via a mechanical slip ring connection within the rotating electrical connector. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 702 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof to receive high data rate messages via a high-speed contactless connection within the rotating electrical connector.

[0083] In some embodiments, the controller 602 includes an input / output circuit 704 that provides output to the user and, in some embodiments, receives an indication of user input. In some embodiments, the input / output circuit 704 communicates with the processor 702 to provide such functionality. The input / output circuit 704 may include one or more user interfaces (e.g., user interfaces), and in some embodiments, include a display including (multiple) interfaces presented as a web user interface, an application user interface, a user device, a back-end system, etc. The processor 702 and / or the input / output circuit 704 including the processor may be configured to control one or more functions of one or more user interface elements via computer program instructions (e.g., software and / or firmware) stored on a memory accessible to the processor (e.g., a data storage medium 706, etc.). In some embodiments, the input / output circuit 704 includes or utilizes a user-facing application to provide input / output functionality for a client device and / or other display associated with the user.

[0084] In some embodiments, controller 602 includes communication circuitry 708. Communication circuitry 708 includes any component, such as a device or circuitry embodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, configured to receive and / or transmit data from / to a network and / or any other device, circuit, or module in communication with controller 602. In this regard, for example, in some embodiments, communication circuitry 708 includes a network interface for enabling communication with a wired or wireless communication network. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, communication circuitry 708 includes one or more network interface cards, antenna(s), bus(es), switch(es), router(s), modem(s), and supporting hardware, firmware, and / or software, or any other device suitable for enabling communication via one or more communication networks. Additionally or alternatively, communication circuitry 708 includes circuitry for interacting with antenna(s) and / or other hardware or software to transmit signals via the antenna(s) or process signals received via the antenna(s). In some embodiments, communication circuitry 708 enables data to be transmitted to and / or received from client devices in communication with controller 602.

[0085] The rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 includes hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof that supports various functionalities associated with transmitting and receiving electronic data over a rotating electrical connector (e.g., rotating electrical connector 606, rotating electrical connector 500). For example, in some embodiments, the rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 can determine a transmission path for electronic data transmission based on the type of data, the payload size of the data, the data priority, and / or other similar factors. In instances where the electronic data can be transmitted at a high data rate and / or high frequency, the rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 can transmit the data over a high-speed contactless data connection by transmitting the data over a data transmission line (e.g., fixed data transmission line 528). In instances where the data can be transmitted at a lower data rate, the rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 can transmit the data over a mechanical slip ring connection within the rotating electrical connector. In some embodiments, the rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 can convert the electronic data to be transmitted into a protocol supported by the rotating electrical connector. For example, the rotating electrical connector interface circuit 710 can convert the electronic data to be transmitted into an 8-bit / 10-bit protocol before transmitting the electronic data to the rotating electrical connector.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more of the groups of circuits 702-710 are combinable. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more of the groups of circuits 702-710 perform some or all of the functionality associated with another component. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the groups of circuits 702-710 are combined into a single module embodied in hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof. Similarly, in some embodiments, one or more of the groups of circuits 702-710 are combined such that the processor 702 can perform one or more of the above operations for each of these circuits individually.

[0087] Now see Figure 8 , provides a flow chart illustrating an example method 800 for transmitting electronic data in a rotating electrical connector (e.g., rotating electrical connector 500). At block 802, the rotating electrical connector can receive a signal from a first wireless transceiver (e.g., Figures 2 to 6 ) transmits the first electronic data to a second wireless transceiver (e.g., Figures 2 to 6) receives the first electronic data at a rotating wireless transceiver described in . As described herein, the rotating electrical connector can include a high-speed contactless connection between two computing devices (e.g., stationary computing device 502, rotating computing device 504). The high-speed contactless connection can utilize a first wireless transceiver and a second wireless transceiver separated by a certain distance. The separation of the wireless transceivers allows the rotating electrical connector to rotate, and the wireless transceivers can rotate relative to each other without causing any wear or strain on the communication components. The proximity of the wireless transceivers enables the transmission of electronic data (e.g., first electronic data, second electronic data) to occur at a high frequency and / or high data rate. For example, the frequency is between 58 and 62 gigahertz, and the data rate is between 100 megabits per second and 10 gigabits per second. The high-speed contactless connection may be more preferred for transmitting data from the first computing device to the second computing device (which may need to be transmitted at a high frequency (e.g., greater than 30 gigahertz) and / or a high data rate (greater than 100 megabits per second)). The data transmitted over the high-speed contactless connection of the rotating electrical connector may include high priority command and control data and / or include a large payload. The electronic data transmitted from the first computing device to the second computing device may be transmitted by the first wireless transceiver and received by the second wireless transceiver.

[0088] At block 804, the rotating electrical connector may transmit second electronic data from the second wireless transceiver and receive the second electronic data at the first wireless transceiver. The high-speed contactless connection may also be utilized to transmit electronic data from the second computing device to the first computing device. The data transmitted over the high-speed contactless connection of the rotating electrical connector may include high-priority status data, high-priority sensor data, image data, streaming video, and / or other sensor data. The electronic data transmitted from the second computing device to the first computing device may be transmitted by the second wireless transceiver and received by the first wireless transceiver.

[0089] At block 806, the rotating electrical connector may receive power from a power source. In some embodiments, the first computing device (e.g., stationary computing device 102, 202, 502, controller 602) may include a power source. In some embodiments, the power source of the first computing device may be utilized to power a second computing device (e.g., rotating computing device 104, 204, 504, rotation sensing device 604). In such embodiments, power may be transferred from the power source of the first computing device to the rotating electrical connector, and then to the second computing device.

[0090] At block 808, the rotating electrical connector can transmit power to a second computing device (e.g., rotating computing device 104, 204, 504, rotating sensing device 604) through electrical contact between the conductive pins (e.g., conductive pins 110, 510) and the conductive rings (conductive rings 112, 512). As described herein, a mechanical slip ring connection can provide physical electrical contact between the conductive pins and the conductive rings. In some embodiments, a mechanical slip ring connection can be more reliable and more efficient in transmitting power than wireless transmission. In addition, power transmission via a mechanical slip ring connection may not be severely affected by wear on the physical electrical contacts of the slip ring connection. In this way, the rotating electrical connector can transmit power via the mechanical slip ring connection while transmitting high-frequency and / or high-data-rate electronic data via a high-speed contactless connection. In some embodiments, the rotating electrical connector can also utilize a mechanical slip ring connection to transmit electronic data transmitted at lower frequencies (e.g., less than 30 gigahertz) and lower data rates (e.g., less than 100 megabits per second).

[0091] Although this detailed description describes some embodiments of the invention, the appended claims cover other embodiments of the invention that vary from the described embodiments according to various modifications and improvements. For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that these principles can be applied to any computing device or sensor that is capable of rotation. For example, security cameras, cameras mounted on aircraft (including drones), and other camera applications; movable radar sensors, lidar sensors, and other sensing devices, particularly those mounted on vehicles, drones, and other machines requiring proximity sensing; and numerous other applications involving rotating computing devices or sensors.

[0092] In the following claims, unless a given claim uses the specific terms "means for" or "step for" the claims are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112, paragraph 6.

[0093] The use of broader terms such as "including," "comprising," and "having" should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting substantially of." The use of the terms "optionally," "may," "might," "could," and the like with respect to any element of an embodiment means that the element is not required, or, alternatively, the element is required, both alternatives being within the scope of the embodiment(s). Moreover, reference to examples is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be exclusive.

Claims

1. A rotary electrical connector, comprising: Connector housing; A first connector portion is provided in the connector housing, the first connector portion comprising: First wireless transceiver, wherein the first connector portion is electrically connected to a first computing device; and A second connector portion is provided in the connector housing, the second connector portion comprising: The second wireless transceiver, wherein the second connector portion is electrically connected to a second computing device; wherein the second connector part rotates relative to the connector housing, and The first computing device and the second computing device exchange electronic data via the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver. 2 . The rotary electrical connector according to claim 1 , wherein the first connector part is fixed to the connector housing.

3. The rotating electrical connector of claim 1, wherein the second connector portion rotates at least 360 degrees relative to the connector housing.

4. The rotating electrical connector of claim 1, wherein the second computing device is associated with an imaging device.

5. The rotating electrical connector of claim 1, wherein the second computing device is associated with a remote sensing device that measures the position and / or velocity of an object using electromagnetic waves.

6. The rotary electrical connector of claim 1 , further comprising a mechanical slip ring connector, wherein the first mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive ring and the second mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive pin, wherein the conductive pin is configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring.

7. The rotating electrical connector of claim 6, wherein the first computing device further comprises a power supply, and wherein the power supply supplies power to the second computing device through the mechanical slip ring connector.

8. The rotary electrical connector of claim 6 , wherein a first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted through the mechanical slip ring connector, and a second data portion of the electronic data is transmitted through the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver, and wherein, The first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted at a lower data rate than the second data portion of the electronic data.

9. The rotating electrical connector of claim 1, wherein the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver transmit the electronic data at a wavelength between 1 mm and 10 mm. 10 . The rotating electrical connector according to claim 1 , wherein a spacing distance between the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver is greater than 1 mm and less than 30 mm.

11. The rotating electrical connector of claim 1, wherein the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver each comprise an antenna configured to generate and receive circularly polarized electromagnetic waves.

12. A system comprising: Rotation sensing equipment; Controller; as well as A rotary electrical connector, comprising: Connector housing; A first connector portion is provided in the connector housing, the first connector portion comprising: First wireless transceiver, wherein the first connector portion is electrically connected to the controller; and A second connector portion is provided in the connector housing, the second connector portion comprising: The second wireless transceiver, wherein the second connector portion is electrically connected to the rotation sensing device; wherein the second connector part rotates relative to the connector housing, and The controller and the rotation sensing device exchange electronic data via the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the rotation sensing device is one of an imaging device, a radar transceiver, and a lidar transceiver.

14. The system of claim 12, further comprising a mechanical slip ring connector, wherein the first mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive ring and the second mechanical slip ring connector portion comprises a conductive pin, wherein the conductive pin is configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the controller further comprises a power supply, and wherein the power supply provides power to the rotation sensing device through the mechanical slip ring connector.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted through the mechanical slip ring connector and the second data portion of the electronic data is transmitted through the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver, and wherein, The first data portion of the electronic data is transmitted at a lower data rate than the second data portion of the electronic data.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver transmit the electronic data at a wavelength between 1 mm and 10 mm.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the first wireless transceiver and the second wireless transceiver each comprise an antenna configured to generate and receive circularly polarized electromagnetic waves.

19. A method for transmitting data in a rotating electrical connector, the rotating electrical connector comprising a connector housing, a first connector portion disposed within the connector housing, and a second connector portion disposed within the connector housing, the first connector portion being electrically connected to a first computing device and comprising a first wireless transceiver, the second connector portion being electrically connected to a second computing device and comprising a second wireless transceiver, wherein the second connector portion rotates relative to the connector housing, the method comprising: transmitting first electronic data from the first wireless transceiver; receiving the first electronic data at the second wireless transceiver; transmitting second electronic data from the second wireless transceiver; as well as The second electronic data is received at the first wireless transceiver.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the rotary electrical connector further comprises a mechanical slip ring connector, the mechanical slip ring connector comprising: a first mechanical slip ring connector portion comprising a conductive ring; and a second mechanical slip ring connector portion comprising conductive pins, wherein the conductive pins are configured to make electrical contact with the conductive ring, and wherein the first computing device further comprises a power supply, the method comprising: receiving power from the power source; and The power is transmitted to the second computing device through the electrical contact between the conductive pin and the conductive ring.

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