Wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints

Abstract

Wireless communication system for a swivel joint assembly, wherein the wireless communication system comprises the following: a first transmitting receiver; and a second transmitter receiver where both the first and second transmitter receiver exhibit the following characteristics: a receiving (RX) antenna array for capturing high-frequency (HF) radiation from an RX beam and for generating an RX signal based on the HF radiation captured by the RX antenna array, a transmit (TX) antenna array for transmitting RF radiation as a TX beam based on a TX signal, an RX processing circuit arrangement for applying on-off keying (OOK) demodulation to a signal based on the RX signal to generate a signal indicative of data encoded in the RF radiation captured by the RX antenna array, and a TX processing circuit arrangement for applying an OOK modulation to generate the TX signal based on a signal indicative of the data to be encoded in the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array, where the following applies to both the first and second transmitter receiver: The RX beam is a fixed RX beam. The TX beam is a solid TX beam, and The beam width of both the RX beam and the TX beam is between 20 and 45 degrees, and where: the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation, which is left-handed elliptically polarized, the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation, which is right-handed elliptically polarized, the RX antenna array of the first transmit-receiver is designed to detect the RF radiation, which is right-handed elliptically polarized, and The RX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to detect RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA OF REVELATION

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to communication systems for wireless data transfer in rotary joints. BACKGROUND

[0002] Continuous, high-speed wireless data transfer between different subsystems is becoming increasingly important for emerging Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial automation applications. Radio systems can be used for wireless data transfer in such applications. Radio systems are systems that transmit and receive signals in the form of electromagnetic waves in the high-frequency (HF) range of approximately 3 kilohertz (kHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Radio systems are commonly used for wireless communication. Two radio units in the same radio system can exchange information wirelessly using protocols such as Bluetooth™, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), or IEEE 802.15.4-compliant protocols. Some examples of such radio systems include wireless sensor networks, Bluetooth-enabled handsets, and smart home systems.

[0003] It would be desirable to use radio systems for data transfer between rotating components (e.g., in a rotary joint), as this would overcome the disadvantages of using optical signals in such applications. Optical solutions require precise alignment of very narrow optical beams and can be easily affected by contamination (e.g., dust or dirt) between the rotating components. However, ensuring continuous, full-duplex data transmission in a rotary joint is not trivial, and improvements to currently available solutions would be welcome.

[0004] US 2020 / 0365962 A1 relates to a transition assembly with a waveguide twist, a waveguide structure with a number of waveguide twists and a swivel joint.

[0005] US 2020 / 0194861 A1 relates to a radio frequency (RF) rotary coupling for a rotary device for RF wave transmission, and an RF rotary device that includes such a coupling.

[0006] US 2019 / 0067769 A1 concerns a rotary coupling with a matched horn coupler assembly.

[0007] US 2012 / 0235882 A1 concerns a rotary coupling with two operating modes for an electromagnetic communication system. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The claimed subject matter is defined in the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are described in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] To provide a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its features and advantages, reference is now made to the following description, which is given in conjunction with the accompanying figures, where the same reference numbers represent the same parts in which the following applies: Fig. Figure 1 provides a block diagram illustrating a swivel joint; Fig. 2 provides a block diagram illustrating an exemplary RF system for implementing a highly integrated short-range communication link enabling full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 provides a schematic illustration of a rotating polarization antenna module that can be implemented in an RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 provides a schematic illustration of a rotating polarization antenna that can be implemented in an RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 5 provides a schematic illustration of a design for realizing right-hand circular polarization in an RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 6 provides a schematic illustration of a diplexer for an RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 7 provides a schematic illustration of how polarization agreement depends on a rotation angle for different polarization types according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 8 provides a schematic illustration of two modules with elliptically polarized antennas for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 9 provides a schematic illustration of a first configuration for a wireless communication system designed to implement uplink and downlink communications using two modules with elliptically polarized antennas to implement wireless full-duplex data transfer, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 10 provides a schematic illustration of a second configuration for a wireless communication system designed to implement uplink and downlink communications using two modules with elliptically polarized antennas for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. Figure 11 provides a block diagram illustrating an exemplary data processing system designed to implement at least parts of an RF system with a highly integrated short communication link, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE REVELATION'S IMPLEMENTATION Overview

[0010] The systems, methods, and devices of this disclosure each exhibit several innovative aspects, none of which alone accounts for all of the desirable attributes disclosed herein. Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the following description and accompanying drawings.

[0011] To illustrate the proposed wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints, it may be helpful to first understand phenomena that occur in systems with moving components. The following background information can be considered a basis from which the present disclosure can be explained. Such information is provided for explanatory purposes only and should therefore in no way be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present disclosure and its potential applications.

[0012] The fourth industrial revolution is driving digital manufacturing by implementing new scenarios into the production process. These scenarios rely on fundamental design principles that include device interconnection, information transparency, technical support, and decentralized decision-making. Realizing all these principles in modern smart factories would not be possible without advanced wireless communication technologies. These technologies enable diverse applications across a wide range of areas, including process automation, inventory tracking, machine control, intralogistics, and infrastructure networking.

[0013] Smart factories integrate various cyber-physical systems, requiring faster and more reliable wireless solutions to handle ever-increasing volumes of data in the most challenging industrial environments. Key drivers enabling these developments, deployed in highly demanding industrial scenarios, include the realization of data transmission from moving equipment where it was previously impossible or limited.

[0014] Modern industrial applications place certain demands on a communication interface between mechanically rotating subsystems. A rotary joint, often also referred to as a slip ring, is a component used to transmit data and power across a rotating connection. Fig. Figure 1 illustrates an example of a 100° swivel joint. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the pivot joint 100 can have a first component 110 and a second component 120. At least one of the first and second components 110, 120 is configured to rotate relative to the other. For example, in some embodiments, the second component 120 can be configured to rotate with respect to the first component 110, and the first component 110 can be fixed / static. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first component 110 can be a stator, meaning that it is not configured to rotate, while the second component 120 can be a rotor, meaning that it is configured to rotate with respect to the first component 110. In other embodiments, both the first component and the second component 110, 120 can be configured to rotate.

[0015] Fig. Figure 1 further shows a double arrow 130, which schematically represents a wireless data interface between the first and second components 110, 120. Furthermore, it shows Fig. Figure 1 also shows an arrow 140, which schematically represents a power transfer from the first component 110 to the second component 120, although the direction of the power transfer may be reversed in other embodiments compared to what is shown. The swivel joint 100 can be used in a wide variety of applications, such as industrial automation applications, robotics, radar systems, connectors, electronic devices, input / output (I / O) assemblies, etc.

[0016] The growing need for faster and more reliable data transmission between rotating components (e.g., between the first and second components 110, 120, as in Fig. (1 shown) in modern industrial scenarios places stringent demands on the bandwidth, crosstalk, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance of data interfaces used in rotary joints. Meeting these requirements is essential to ensure real-time operation, continuous uptime, and maximum efficiency of the corresponding industrial equipment. For example, in some implementations, industrial rotary data interface assemblies must maintain consistent transmission quality at very high rotational speeds of 5000 to 6000 rpm at rates typically of 100 megabits per second (Mbps). In most cases, these data transfer rates are sufficient, but some specialized applications require faster transmission at 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and above, which is becoming a fairly standard benchmark today.Industrial applications also require support for IEEE 802.3-based (Ethernet) and other industrial bus protocols, as well as deterministic real-time communication to enable time-sensitive applications and IoT functionality. Data interface solutions designed for these applications should be immune to physical misalignment, electromagnetic interference, and crosstalk to ensure error-free data transmission with bit error rates (BER) of 1 × 10⁻⁶. -12 or better yet, enable it. Contaminants present in industrial environments should not impair the operation of a rotary joint, which ideally should be maintenance-free and not subject to wear. Finally, the data interface technology must be compatible with a power transmission subsystem of a rotary joint assembly to meet all functional requirements of a target application.

[0017] There are various types of rotary joints that differ in their functional characteristics, form factor, rotational speed (rpm), maximum data rates, power ranges, types of supported interfaces, number of channels, and many other design aspects shaped by application requirements. Among these design considerations, the data interface has some of the most critical requirements, making it essential to choose the right technology for its implementation in a slip ring assembly. Data communication technologies used to realize this function can generally be classified as contact-based and contactless. Many variations exist depending on the type of coupling they use to create a communication channel for data transmission.

[0018] Conventional data interface technologies offer numerous sets of features and capabilities that can meet the typical requirements of industrial slip ring applications. However, the Fourth Industrial Revolution places stringent demands on the configurability, reliability, and speed of data interfaces for slip ring applications, demands that cannot always be met by today's conventional technologies.

[0019] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a novel solution based on a contactless technology that overcomes some critical limitations of other methods by utilizing electromagnetic millimeter waves (mm waves, i.e., electromagnetic radiation with frequencies between 30 GHz and approximately 300 GHz, corresponding to wavelengths on a millimeter scale, e.g., wavelengths between 10 mm for the 30 GHz frequency and 1 mm for the 300 GHz frequency) for transmitting data over longer distances in radiating near-field (Fresnel) and far-field regions. The proposed solution not only enables a compact and cost-effective intermediate connection for the target application, but also, due to its high reconfigurability and innovative approach, makes it a compelling candidate for developing application concepts of new technology.

[0020] The advent of cost-effective microwave manufacturing technologies has made them a commercial reality for broad market applications. In particular, mm-wave 60 GHz technologies are receiving increasing attention from today's broad market due to the unique advantages of this frequency band, which lies in the upper reaches of the microwave spectrum. This globally license-free and largely uncongested band offers a wide bandwidth up to 9 GHz, allowing for high data rates, provides short wavelengths that enable compact system design, and exhibits a high atmospheric attenuation ratio, resulting in lower levels of interference. These advantages make 60 GHz technologies suitable for applications such as multigigabit WiGig networks (IEEE 802.11ad and the next-generation IEEE 802.11).11ay standards), wireless backhaul connectivity and wireless transmission of high-definition video (a proprietary WirelessHD / UltraGig standard) are attractive.

[0021] In the industrial sector, 60 GHz technologies are mostly used for millimeter-wave radar sensors and low-data-rate telemetry links. However, rapid advances in this area make 60 GHz technologies promising for achieving high-speed, ultra-low-latency data transmission in industrial subsystems.

[0022] Here are revealed RF systems that implement wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints (e.g., the one in Fig. An exemplary RF system comprises a first RF transceiver, to be accommodated in one component of a rotary joint (e.g., in the first component 110 of the rotary joint 100), and a second RF transceiver, to be accommodated in the other component of a rotary joint (e.g., in the second component 120 of the rotary joint 100). The first and second transceivers can be configured to implement elliptically (e.g., circularly) polarized antennas with fixed-beam (i.e., non-steerable), wide-beam, low-gain radiation patterns to establish a short-range communication link (e.g., a 60 GHz short-range communication link) between the two components of a rotary joint.Such an RF system can provide a high-speed mm-wave broadband communication link in a manner associated with simple design and operation, mechanical integrity, and reduced power consumption compared to conventional solutions.

[0023] As a person skilled in the art would understand, aspects of this disclosure, in particular aspects of a wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints as described herein, can be implemented in various ways, such as a method, a system, a computer program product, or a computer-readable storage medium. Accordingly, aspects of this disclosure can take the form of a completely hardware-based embodiment, a completely software-based embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an embodiment that combines software and hardware aspects, all of which may be generally referred to herein as a "circuit," a "module," or a "system." Functions described in this disclosure can be implemented as an algorithm performed by one or more hardware processing units, e.g.,The process can be executed on one or more microprocessors or one or more computers. In various embodiments, different steps and parts of the steps of any method described herein can be performed by different processing units. Furthermore, aspects of this disclosure can take the form of a computer program product on one or more preferably non-volatile, computer-readable media, which contain, for example, stored, computer-readable program code. In various embodiments, such a computer program can, for example, be downloaded (updated) onto existing devices and systems (e.g., existing rotary joints or other systems with moving components, RF transmitters, receivers, transceivers, and / or their controls, etc.) or stored on these devices and systems during their manufacture.

[0024] The following detailed description presents various descriptions of specific embodiments. However, the innovations described here can be implemented in a variety of different ways, as defined and covered by the claims or selected examples. The following description refers to the drawings, in which identical reference numerals may denote identical or functionally similar elements. It is understood that elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Furthermore, some embodiments may include any suitable combination of features from two or more drawings. It is also understood that certain embodiments may have more elements than illustrated in a single drawing and / or a subset of the elements illustrated in the drawing.For example, any of the components illustrated in these drawings (e.g., any of the antennas or any of the processing circuit arrangement) can be implemented as multiple such components that function equivalently as a single component described herein. In another example, various circuits and arrangements described herein may include further components not specifically illustrated in these drawings, such as resistors, capacitors, various electrical interconnects (i.e., electrically conductive structures designed to provide electrical connectivity between different circuit components), and so on.

[0025] The description may use the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in embodiments," each referring to one or more of the same or different embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives "first," "second," and "third," etc., to describe a common object merely indicates that reference is made to different instances of similar objects and is not intended to imply that the objects so described must exist in any given sequence, whether temporal, spatial, grading, or otherwise. Furthermore, for the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "A and / or B" or the notation "A / B" means (A), (B), or (A and B), whereas the phrase "A, B, and / or C" means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C). As used here, the notation "A / B / C" means (A, B, and / or C).The term “between”, when used with reference to measurement ranges, includes the ends of the measurement ranges.

[0026] Various aspects of the illustrative embodiments are described using terms commonly used by a person skilled in the art to communicate the content of their work to other people skilled in the art. For example, the term "connected" means a direct electrical connection between the things being connected, without any intervening devices / components, while the term "coupled" means either a direct electrical connection between the things being connected or an indirect connection (e.g., an indirect electrical connection) through one or more passive or active intervening devices / components. In another example, the term "circuit" means one or more passive and / or active components configured to work together to provide a desired function.Sometimes the term "circuit" may be omitted in the present descriptions. The expressions "essentially", "approximately", "about", etc., if used, may be used to generally indicate that the result is within + / - 20% of a target value, e.g., within + / - 10% of a target value based on a specific value, as described herein or as is known to a person skilled in the art. Exemplary RF system with a mm-wave communication link

[0027] Fig. Figure 2 provides a block diagram illustrating an exemplary RF system 200 for implementing a mm-wave short-range communication link enabling full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the RF system 200 can have two transceivers 210, illustrated as a first transceiver 210-1 and a second transceiver 210-2, configured to communicate with each other via mm-wave radiation. Similar to the notation used to label the first transceiver 210-1 and the second transceiver 210-1, corresponding components of the first and second transceiver 210 can subsequently be labeled with a common three-digit reference number, followed by a hyphen and the digit "1" to indicate the component of the first transceiver 210-1, and followed by a hyphen and the digit "2" to indicate the component of the second transceiver 210-2. Each transceiver 210 of the RF system 200 can be both a receive (RX) circuit arrangement (i.e. a receiver) and a transmit (TX) circuit arrangement (i.e.a transmitter) so that the unit can both receive and send data. As in . Fig. As shown in Figure 2, for each transceiver 210, the RX circuit arrangement can include an RX antenna array 222, an RX processing circuit arrangement 224, and optionally an RX comparator 226 (which can be used to convert the analog RX baseband output to a logic level), while the TX circuit arrangement can include a TX antenna array 232, a TX processing circuit arrangement 234, and optionally a TX comparator 236 (which can be used to set up a fixed-level TX baseband input) and a modulation network 238. As also shown in Fig. As shown in 2, in some embodiments each transmitter-receiver 210 can also have a (in Fig. 2 crystal oscillators 240, designated as “XO”.

[0028] Although that in Fig. 2. The RF system 200 shown illustrates only two of the RF transceivers 210; the radio system 200 can generally have any number of RF transceivers 210.

[0029] As described in more detail below, in some embodiments any of the RF transceivers 210 can be orthogonal polarizations, frequency separation, physical distance, or a frequency diplexer (the latter can be as in Fig. 6 and Fig. (as shown in Figure 10). In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can separate the RX and TX channels into frequency bands using a novel circuit arrangement (e.g., a mm-wave frequency range can be separated into TX and RX sub-bands). In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can use step-up and step-down conversion in the chipset, so that the link input and output are at the baseband frequency. In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can use an integrated circuit (IC) with integrated modulation and demodulation functionalities to eliminate the need for additional data converters and a modem for the lowest possible latency. In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can incorporate part or all of the necessary passive circuitry within the laminate IC package.

[0030] In some embodiments, each of the RF transceivers 210 can be a device used to initiate communication, such as a wireless sensor, a handset, a smart home system device, a computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a laptop or electronic notebook, a mobile phone, an iPhone™, an iPad™, a Google Droid™ phone, an Internet Protocol (IP) phone, or any other device, component, element, or object capable of initiating voice, audio, video, media, or data exchange operations within the RF system 200. In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can be implemented as a radio access point device that uses, for example, a wireless sensor, a wireless access point, or a wireless access point. B. Bluetooth™, WLAN (e.g. Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.15.4 protocol, a 3rd-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) network (e.g.3G, 4G, Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G) protocol, non-3GPP network (e.g., WiMAX) protocols, or any other appropriate standard can connect to a wired network. In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can include software (or response software) that can coordinate to achieve their operations and / or features as outlined herein. In some embodiments, one or more of these elements can include any suitable algorithms, hardware or software, components, modules, interfaces, or objects that enable their operations. This can include appropriate algorithms and communication protocols that enable the effective exchange of data or information.

[0031] In some embodiments, one of the RF transceivers 210 can be implemented in a stator and the other in a rotor of a rotary joint. For example, the first transceiver 210-1 can be implemented in the first component 110 of the Fig. The first transceiver 210 is implemented in the swivel joint 100 shown, while the second transceiver 210-2 can be implemented in the second component 120 of the swivel joint 100. Although many RF transceivers are known in the art, e.g., transceivers used in wireless communications involving user equipment and base stations (i.e., for relatively long-range wireless communications), the transceivers 210 have some features that make them unique and suitable for use in a swivel assembly.

[0032] One of the unique features of the 210 transceivers that makes them particularly suitable for swivel joint applications is the design of their RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232. In the context of radio systems, an antenna is a device that serves as an interface between radio waves, which propagate wirelessly through space, and electrical currents that travel in metal conductors used with a transmitter or receiver. During transmission, a radio transmitter can supply an electrical current to antenna terminals, and the antenna can radiate the energy from the current as radio waves (i.e., electromagnetic radiation in the RF range). During reception, an antenna can capture some of the power from a wireless radio wave / radiation to produce an electrical current at its terminals, which can then be amplified by the receiver.

[0033] Each of the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 can be characterized by its respective radiation beam patterns. The RX antenna array 222 can be used to detect RF radiation from an RX beam 220 (in Fig. 2 (illustrated with a dotted outline for each of the RX antenna arrays 222) and configured to generate an RX signal 223 (an electrical signal) based on (e.g., representative or indicative of) the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array 222. The RX signal 223 can then be supplied to the RX processing circuit arrangement 224 for processing. The TX antenna array 232 can be configured to transmit wireless RF radiation as a TX beam 230 (in Fig. 2 (illustrated with a solid grey outline for each of the TX antenna array 232) based on a TX signal 235 (an electrical signal) provided by the TX processing circuit arrangement 234.

[0034] The RX beams 220 and the TX beams 230 of the RF system 200 can be relatively wide, which is specific to rotary joint applications. For example, in some embodiments, the beamwidth of both the RX and TX beams can be between approximately 15 and 45 degrees, e.g., between approximately 20 and 40 degrees, e.g., approximately 30 degrees (i.e., the RX antenna array 222 and the TX antenna array 232 are wide-beam antennas). This differs drastically from the use of optical signals to transmit data between components of a rotary joint because optical signals must have extremely narrow beams (e.g., less than 1 degree). This also differs drastically from the use of RF signals in wireless communications between base stations and user equipment devices, where the beams must be narrower, e.g., between 5 and 12 degrees.Training the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 to implement such relatively wide beams provides some advantages.

[0035] Firstly, wide-beam antennas simplify the arrangement of the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 of the first and second transmitter-receiver 210 such that, even if one of the transmitter-receivers 210 rotates relative to the other during operation of the RF system 200 implemented in a swivel joint (or if both rotate), a sufficiently large part of the TX beam 230-1 of the first transmitter-receiver 210-1 overlaps with the RX beam 220-2 of the second transmitter-receiver 210-2 and is therefore captured by it, and vice versa (i.e., this sufficiently large part of the TX beam 230-2 of the second transmitter-receiver 210-2 overlaps with the RX beam 220-1 of the first transmitter-receiver 210-1 and is therefore captured by it).Accordingly, during operation of the RF system 200 implemented in a swivel joint, the RX antenna arrays 222 and the TX antenna arrays 232 are arranged such that at least part of the RF radiation received by the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transmitter-receiver 210-1 originates from the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transmitter-receiver 210-2, and at least part of the RF radiation received by the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transmitter-receiver 210-2 originates from the RF radiation received by the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transmitter-receiver 210-1. An example of an overlap between rays 220-1 and 230-2 and between rays 220-2 and 230-1 is shown schematically in . Fig. Figure 2 illustrates this, however, in practical implementations the distance between the transmitters and receivers 210 would be greater than what is shown in the diagram for Fig. 2 could be illustrated, therefore the beams 220 and 230 would probably all partially overlap at a given time, since the orientation of the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 changes when components in which they are implemented are rotated relative to each other.

[0036] Another advantage is that wide-beam RF antennas can be implemented using fewer antenna elements in an antenna array. Generally, more antenna elements are needed in an antenna array to reduce the beamwidth of an RF beam. Using fewer antenna elements in an antenna array advantageously reduces cost, complexity, and power consumption. In some embodiments, each of the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 can have between 4 and 12 antenna elements, as in, for example, Fig. Figure 3 shows an antenna array with 4 antenna elements, which is described in more detail below. In embodiments where the RX and TX antenna arrays 222 and 232 are combined to implement a diplexer, as described below, the antenna array can have 8 antenna elements. In contrast, the RX and TX antenna arrays used in RF wireless communications between base stations and user devices typically employ many more antenna elements, such as 48, 96, or even more.

[0037] In some embodiments, the antenna elements of the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 can be implemented as patch antennas. However, in general, any type of individual antenna element known in the art can be used to implement the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232.

[0038] The RX and TX antenna arrays 222 and 232 of the RF system 200 have relatively low gain, which is also specific to swivel-joint applications. For example, in some embodiments, the antenna gain of each of the RX antenna arrays 222 and the TX antenna arrays 232 can be less than 15 decibels (dB), e.g., less than about 13 dB. This differs drastically from the use of RF signals in wireless communications between base stations and user devices, where antenna gains must be considerably higher, e.g., at least 18 or 24 dB, because signals must be transmitted over much longer distances.For swivel joint applications, a typical distance between the first and second transmit / receive unit 210 (or correspondingly the distance between the first and second components 110, 120 of the swivel joint 100) can be between about 1 and 30 wavelengths at a center frequency of the RF radiation to be received by the RX antenna arrays 222 and the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna arrays 232, e.g., the distance can be between about 0.5 and 15 centimeters (cm), e.g., between about 1 and 10 cm, if the center frequency is about 60 GHz. Similar to using a smaller number of antenna elements, designing the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 such that they are low-gain antennas also provides advantages in terms of reduced cost, reduced complexity and reduced power consumption.

[0039] Another feature specific to swivel applications is that the RX beams 220 and the TX beams 230 of the RF system 200 are fixed (i.e., the direction of these beams is fixed with respect to, for example, the plane of their respective antenna arrays and is not steerable). This differs drastically from the use of RF signals in wireless communications between base stations and user devices, where beam steering over a wide angular range is absolutely essential.

[0040] Another feature adapted for swivel joint applications is that, to enable full-duplex wireless data transfer for swivel joints, each RF transceiver 210 can have two elliptically / circularly polarized antennas to allow rotation of the receiver relative to the transmitter, which would allow the RF system to implement either fixed or rotating RX and TX link pairs. Such elliptically polarized antennas can use orthogonal (or cross-) polarizations to distinguish or isolate RX and TX signals. For example, the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transceiver 210-1 can transmit the RF radiation, which is left-handed elliptically polarized (a left-handed elliptical polarization is in Fig. 2, labelled as “LHCP”, which stands for “left-hand circularly polarized”, where circular polarization is a special case of elliptical polarization), the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transceiver 210-2 can be configured to transmit RF radiation that is right-hand elliptically polarized (right-hand elliptical polarization is in Fig. 2 labelled “RHCP”, which stands for “right-hand circularly polarized”), the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transmit-receiver 210-1 can be configured to receive RF radiation that is right-hand elliptically polarized, and the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transmit-receiver 210-2 can be configured to receive RF radiation that is left-hand elliptically polarized. Accordingly, within a given transmit-receiver 210, the elliptical polarizations of the RX antenna array 222 and the TX antenna array 232 are essentially orthogonal (i.e., one is left-hand and the other is right-hand elliptically polarized), whereas, if the first and second transmit-receiver 210 are configured in the first and second configurations respectively, the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first and second configurations respectively are configured to receive RF radiation that is left-hand elliptically polarized.second component 110, 120 of a rotary joint are used, elliptical polarizations of the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transmitter receiver 210-1 and of the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transmitter receiver 210-2 are essentially orthogonal, as is also the case for the elliptical polarizations of the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transmitter receiver 210-1 and of the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transmitter receiver 210-2.

[0041] In some embodiments, frequency separation can be used in combination with orthogonal polarizations to improve isolation between a common installed receiver and transmitter. For example, in some embodiments, both the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transmit-receiver 210-1 and the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transmit-receiver 210-2 can be a low-band (LB) antenna exhibiting a right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization (which is in Fig. 2 is labelled “LB-RHCP”), while both the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transmit-receiver 210-2 and the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transmit-receiver 210-1 can be a high-band (HB) antenna using a left-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization (which is in Fig. 2 is labelled “HB-LHCP”). In other embodiments, the LB antenna can use the LHCP and the HB antenna can use the RHCP, i.e., both the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transmit-receiver 210-1 and the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transmit-receiver 210-2 can be an LB antenna using left-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization, while both the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transmit-receiver 210-2 and the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transmit-receiver 210-1 can be an HB antenna using right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization. In some embodiments, the high bands of the HB antenna arrays of the 210-1 and 210-2 transceivers may not be completely identical, but they overlap at least partially.In some embodiments, HB frequency ranges implemented in the antenna arrays of the HF System 200 may include frequencies above approximately 60 GHz, e.g., frequencies between approximately 61 GHz and 64 GHz, while LB frequency ranges may include frequencies below approximately 60 GHz, e.g., frequencies between approximately 57 GHz and 59 GHz. Further details of using polarization to enable full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints are provided in [reference to be inserted here]. Fig. 7-10 described.

[0042] Another of the unique features of the 210 transceivers that makes them particularly suitable for rotary joint applications is the design of their RX and TX processing circuits 224, 234. Characteristically for rotary joint applications, the RX processing circuit arrangement 224 of each of the 210 transceivers can be configured to apply an on-off keying (OOK) demodulation to the RX signal 223 (or a signal based thereon, e.g., after the RX signal 223 has been down-converted to a lower frequency) to produce a signal indicative of data encoded in the wireless RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array 222.Similarly, the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 of each of the transceivers 210 can be configured to apply OOK modulation to generate the TX signal 235 such that the TX signal 235 is based on a signal indicative of data to be encoded in the wireless RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array 234. This is in sharp contrast to modulation / demodulation techniques used in wireless communications between base stations and user devices, which employ higher-order hierarchical modulation techniques such as quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), e.g., 1024-QAM.

[0043] The RX processing circuit arrangement 224 of each of the transmit receivers 210 can further be configured to use an RX local oscillator (LO) signal to perform a frequency down-conversion to generate a lower frequency RX signal 225 based on the RX signal 223, and the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 can further be configured to use a TX LO signal to perform a frequency up-conversion to generate the TX signal 235 based on a lower frequency TX signal 239. For example, in various embodiments, each of the RX signals 223 and the TX signals 235 can be an RF signal with signal frequencies between approximately 300 MHz and 300 GHz, while each of the lower-frequency RX signals 225 and the lower-frequency TX signals 239 can be a baseband signal with signal frequencies below 300 MHz or an intermediate frequency signal with signal frequencies below the signal frequencies of the RX signal or TX signal, respectively.of the TX signal. In some embodiments, any of the transceivers 210 can include the crystal oscillator 240 configured to generate a crystal reference signal 241, and wherein the RX-LO signal used by the RX processing circuit arrangement 224 for step-down conversion and / or the TX-LO signal used by the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 for step-up conversion can be based on the crystal reference signal 241. In this way, the RX-LO signal and / or the TX-LO signal used by the processing circuits of the RF system 200 can be synthesized based on the crystal reference signal, which can be advantageous for other methods of generating such signals with respect to, for example, temperature drift.In various embodiments, the RX processing circuit arrangement 224 can be configured to perform a frequency step-down conversion, and the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 can be configured to perform a frequency step-up conversion in the analog domain. In some embodiments, the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 can be driven by a digital logic level signal, but the mixing it performs can still be analog.

[0044] In some embodiments, the TX processing circuit arrangement 234 in any of the transceivers 210 may be configured to perform frequency upconversion but not OOK modulation. In such embodiments, the transceiver 210 may include a comparator 236 and possibly also a separate OOK modulation network 238. The comparator 236 may be configured to receive a baseband or IF signal (i.e., a sequence of analog values) that is indicative of data to be transmitted by the TX antenna array 232 of the transceiver 210 (the data to be transmitted is in Fig. 2 illustrated as a thick arrow pointing towards the transceiver 210, labeled as “TX bits”), and converting the analog values ​​into binary values, which are ultimately supplied to the TX processing circuit arrangement 234, so that the TX signal 235 can be based on the TX bits supplied to the transceiver 210 (i.e., so that the TX signal 235 is an RF signal that has been modulated to encode the data to be transmitted by the TX antenna array 232 of the transceiver 210). If used, the modulation network 238 can be configured to generate an OOK modulation to be supplied to the TX processing circuit arrangement 234.

[0045] In some embodiments, the RX processing circuit arrangement 224 in any of the transceivers 210 may be configured to perform frequency downconversion but not OOK demodulation. In such embodiments, the transceiver 210 may be configured to generate an IF signal 225 (i.e., a sequence of analog values). In some embodiments, OOK demodulation may take place at the IF frequency. The transceiver 210 may include a comparator 226. The comparator 226 may be configured to receive a baseband or IF signal 225 (i.e., a sequence of analog values) and generate binary digital values ​​that may be indicative of data received by the RX antenna array 222 of the transceiver 210 (the data received by the RX antenna array 222 are in Fig. 2 illustrated as a thick arrow pointing away from the transmitter-receiver 210, which is labelled as "RX bits").

[0046] In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can be implemented in a single IC package, for example, in a multi-chip laminate IC package. The IC package can employ advanced encapsulation technology and circuit structures to isolate jointly installed RX and TX ICs. In some embodiments, any of the transceivers 210 can include the RX and TX antenna arrays 222, 232 and the RX and TX processing circuit arrangements 224, 234, which are integrated on a single die or integrated in a single multi-chip package (as in Fig. 2 (shown with a dashed outline around these components).

[0047] In some embodiments, any of the RF transceivers 210 can incorporate a wideband directional antenna into the laminate housing. The antenna can be a single unit or can be in an array arrangement or another type of compatible antenna. A link frequency can be millimeter wave to achieve a small antenna size.

[0048] Fig. Figure 3 presents a schematic illustration of an antenna module 300 that can be implemented in an RF system for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, e.g., in the RF system 200. Fig. 2, is equipped, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the antenna module 300 can be a single element of a phased antenna array with its feed connection / network (linear or sequential feed). Each antenna module can incorporate any suitable elements designed for wireless transmission and / or reception of RF signals, such as dipoles, open-end waveguides, slotted waveguides, microstrip antennas, planar, volumetric 3D-printed, and the like. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the antenna module 300 can include upper patch antennas 310 (four of which are shown, but only one is labeled to keep the drawing clear), lower patch antennas 320 (four of which are also shown, but only one is labeled to keep the drawing clear), and an antenna feed network 330. The upper patch antennas 310 can be used to implement the RX antenna array 222, while the lower patch antennas 320 can be used to implement the TX antenna array 232 of the transceiver 200, or vice versa. The antenna feed network 330 can be configured to route feed signals to / from the upper patch antennas 310 and the lower patch antennas 320 to enable the RX and TX antenna arrays to function as described above.

[0049] Fig. Figure 4 provides a schematic illustration of a rotating polarization antenna that can be implemented in an RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for swivel joints, e.g. in the RF system 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig. Figure 5 provides a schematic illustration of an exemplary phase shifter 500 for realizing right-hand circular polarization in an RF system configured to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, e.g., in the RF system 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In an array antenna, the RF current from the transmitter can be supplied to the individual antennas with the correct phase relationship, so that the radio waves from the separate antennas are added to increase the radiation in a desired direction, while radiation in undesired directions is canceled out for suppression. In a phased array, the power from the transmitter is supplied to the antennas by phase shifters that can change the phase, thereby directing the beam of radio waves in a different direction. The phase shifter 500 can, for example,contained in the RHCP antenna of any of the RF transceivers 210.

[0051] To enable full-duplex communication, a novel circuit arrangement can be used in the antenna structure to provide improved electrical isolation between sub-bands, such as simultaneous orthogonal polarizations, frequency separation, physical distance, or a frequency diplexer.

[0052] Fig. Figure 6 provides a schematic illustration of a diplexer 600 for an RF system configured to implement wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints, e.g., the RF system 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The diplexer 600 can be used to transmit inputs and outputs to and from the HB and LB antennas in a given RF transceiver 210. As shown in Figure 6, the diplexer 600 can be used to transmit inputs and outputs to and from the HB and LB antennas in a given RF transceiver 210. Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the diplexer 600 can receive a diplexer input / output 610, which may be coupled to an antenna array. If the diplexer input / output 610 is a diplexer input, it can receive an electrical signal that is output by the antenna array. The diplexer input 610 can be split between two paths. In a first path, part of the diplexer input 610 can pass through a bandpass filter (BPF) or a high-pass filter 620 configured to provide an HB output 622 (which can be for either TX or RX). In a second path, part of the diplexer input 610 can pass through a BPF or a low-pass filter 630 configured to provide an LB output 632 (which can be for either TX or RX).The HB output 622 can be a signal with frequencies in the HB range, as described above, while the LB output 632 can be a signal with frequencies in the LB range, as described above. The same applies in reverse when the diplexer input / output 610 is a diplexer output. In some embodiments, the diplexer input / output 610 can simultaneously receive or send signals to / from the antenna array. An example of such a use of the diplexer 600 is shown in [reference missing]. Fig. 10 shown. Using antenna polarization to enable wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints

[0053] The inventors of the present disclosure have realized that systems with rotating components present unique challenges to wireless data transfer that do not exist for systems with static components.

[0054] Fig. Figure 7 provides a schematic illustration of how polarization matching depends on a rotation angle for different polarization types, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the context of data transfer between two components of a rotary joint (e.g., two components 110, 120, each equipped with a first or second RF transceiver 210 as described above), which may be designated as Module 1 and Module 2, polarization matching refers to how the polarization of an antenna of Module 1 (e.g., RF transceiver 210-1) matches that of an antenna of Module 2 (e.g., RF transceiver 210-2) when Module 1 transmits data for Module 2 to receive, or vice versa. The better the matching, the higher the efficiency of the data transfer. Ideally, for the most efficient data transfer, the antennas of both modules should have the same polarization.This presents challenges when the modules rotate relative to each other. For example, it is assumed that both modules are designed to have linearly polarized antennas with the same type of linear polarization, e.g., both with vertical polarization. Since the polarization of an antenna refers to the orientation of the electric field of an electromagnetic wave with respect to the Earth's surface, the orientation of each module relative to the Earth's surface is important.Although two modules may initially be designed and positioned to have linearly polarized antennas with the same type of linear polarization, if one or both of these modules rotate, the orientation of the linear polarization changes, and a situation may arise where the linear polarizations are orthogonal to each other. In this case, there is no polarization match, and data transfer is not possible. This is related to the [reference to be added]. Fig. Figure 7 illustrates this. If Module 1 and Module 2 have a rotation of 0 degrees relative to each other, their polarization agreement can be ideal, resulting in optimal data transfer. However, as the rotation angle between these modules increases, the polarization agreement gradually decreases and becomes minimal when the rotation angle reaches 90 degrees. For larger rotation angles, the polarization agreement can gradually increase and can again reach its maximum when the rotation angle reaches 270 degrees, and so on. This is illustrated accordingly. Fig. 7, that the use of linearly polarized antennas in the RF units (e.g. in the transceivers 210 described above) would result in interrupted data transmission. Fig. Figure 7 illustrates that the polarization matching of modules that can rotate relative to each other can be improved if both modules have elliptically polarized antennas (see the in Fig. 7 (dashed line shown), and that polarization matching can be optimal if both modules have circularly polarized antennas (see the one in Fig. 7 (dashed line shown).

[0055] Fig. Figure 8 provides a schematic illustration of two modules, Module 1 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-1) and Module 2 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-2), with elliptically polarized antennas for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, each of the modules can have a single antenna or an antenna array, 810 and 820, with elliptical polarization, e.g., with circular polarization (circular polarization is a subset of all elliptical polarizations, namely a subset where two axes of the ellipse are the same). Data transmission between such modules can be improved compared to linearly polarized antennas, as in Figure 8. Fig. 7 illustrates how to improve.

[0056] In order to enable full-duplex communication between the modules (i.e., communication in which each module can simultaneously send and receive data), some means of differentiating between the data being sent and the data being received must be provided for each module. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 provide two alternative configurations for uplink and downlink communications between two modules with elliptically polarized antennas. In the context of Module 1 and Module 2, which are in Fig. 9 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the term “Uplink” is used to refer to communication when Module 1 transmits data and Module 2 receives data, while the term “Downlink” is used to refer to communication when Module 2 transmits data and Module 1 receives data.

[0057] Fig. Figure 9 provides a schematic illustration of a first configuration for a wireless communication system 900, which is configured to implement uplink and downlink communications using two modules, Module 1 and Module 2, with elliptically polarized (e.g., circularly polarized) antennas for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. At least one of Module 1 and Module 2 is configured to rotate with respect to the other, e.g., in the direction of a rotation illustrated by a dashed arrow 902. In particular, the figure illustrates Fig. 9, that in some embodiments both module 1 and module 2 may be configured to implement antennas with orthogonal polarization for transmitting and receiving data. As, for example, in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the module 1 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-1) in some embodiments may have a first antenna 910-1 with right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization and a second antenna 910-2 with left-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization, which is orthogonal (or transverse) to the right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization of the first antenna 910-1. Similarly, module 2 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-1) can have a first antenna 920-1 with right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization and a second antenna 920-2 with left-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization, which is orthogonal (or perpendicular) to the right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization of the first antenna 920-1. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, in the uplink communication defined here, module 1 transmits data using antenna 910-1 and module 2 receives data using antenna 920-1, while in the downlink communication defined here, module 1 receives data using antenna 910-2 and module 2 transmits data using antenna 920-2. For example, module 1 can be made of Fig. 9 the second transceiver 210-2 and module 2 can be the first transceiver 210-1 for the in Fig. Figure 2 illustrates this. In such an example, for module 1, the first antenna 910-1 can be the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transceiver 210-2, while the second antenna 910-2 can be the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transceiver 210-2. Conversely, for module 2, the first antenna 920-1 can be the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transceiver 210-1, while the second antenna 920-2 can be the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transceiver 210-1.

[0058] Fig. Figure 10 provides a schematic illustration of a second configuration for a wireless communication system 1000, which is configured to implement uplink and downlink communications using two modules, Module 1 and Module 2, with elliptically polarized (e.g., circularly polarized) antennas for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. At least one of Module 1 and Module 2 is configured to rotate relative to the other, e.g., in the direction of a rotation illustrated by a dashed arrow 1002. In particular, the figure illustrates Fig. 10, that in some embodiments both module 1 and module 2 may be configured to implement frequency separation for transmitting and receiving data. For example, in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, in some embodiments both Module 1 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-1) and Module 2 (e.g., the RF transceiver 210-2) can have a single broadband antenna or an antenna array 1010 and 1020 (where, in some embodiments, a broadband antenna can be implemented using multiple narrowband antennas), which is coupled to a respective diplexer 1012 and 1022. The antenna 1010 can include the RX antenna array 222 and the TX antenna array 232, as described above. Each of the diplexers 1012 and 1022 can be coupled to the diplexer 600, as shown in Figure 10. Fig. 6 shown, his.

[0059] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, in the uplink communication as defined here, module 1 can be configured to transmit data in the line base (LB) of antenna 1010, and module 2 can be configured to receive data using the LB of antenna 1020. In the downlink communication as defined here, module 1 can be configured to receive data in the main beam (HB) of antenna 1010, and module 2 can be configured to transmit data using the HB of antenna 1020. In some embodiments of such a configuration, either both modules have antennas with right-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization, or both modules have antennas with left-handed circular (or elliptical) polarization. For example, module 1 can be made of Fig. 10 the second transceiver 210-2 and module 2 can be the first transceiver 210-1 for the in Fig. Figure 2 illustrates this as an example. In such an example, for module 1, the broadband antenna 1010 can be a combination of the RX antenna array 222-2 of the second transceiver 210-2 and the TX antenna array 232-2 of the second transceiver 210-2. Conversely, for module 2, the broadband antenna 1020 can be a combination of the RX antenna array 222-1 of the first transceiver 210-1 and the TX antenna array 232-1 of the first transceiver 210-1.

[0060] In further embodiments, frequency separation can be combined with orthogonal polarizations to further improve isolation between a jointly installed receiver and transmitter. In other words, a combination of Fig. 9 and the frequency separation approach of the uplink and downlink, which would lead to additional filter components in the modules, is possible and falls within the scope of protection of the present disclosure. In some such embodiments, diplexers or broadband antennas can be excluded, but filtering in each signal path will be involved. Exemplary data processing system

[0061] Fig. Figure 11 provides a block diagram illustrating an exemplary data processing system 1100 designed to implement at least parts of an RF system with full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the data processing system 1100 can have at least one processor 1102, e.g., a hardware processor 1102, which is coupled to memory elements 1104 via a system bus 1106. Therefore, the data processing system can store program code within the memory elements 1104. Furthermore, the processor 1102 can execute the program code accessed by the memory elements 1104 via a system bus 1106. In one aspect, the data processing system can be implemented as a computer capable of storing and / or executing program code. However, it is understood that the data processing system 1100 can be implemented in the form of any system, including a processor and memory, capable of performing the functions described within the scope of this disclosure.

[0063] In some embodiments, the processor 1102 can execute software or an algorithm for performing the activities discussed in the present disclosure, in particular activities relating to wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints. The processor 1102 can comprise any combination of hardware, software, or firmware providing programmable logic, including, by way of non-limiting example, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a virtual machine processor.The processor 1102 can be communicatively coupled with the memory element 1104, for example in a direct memory access (DMA) configuration, so that the processor 1102 can read from or write to the memory elements 1104.

[0064] In general, the memory elements 1104 may comprise any volatile or non-volatile memory technology, including double data rate (DDR) random access memory (RAM), synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), optical media, virtual memory areas, magnetic or tape storage, or any other suitable technology. Unless otherwise specified, any of the memory elements discussed herein should be understood as included within the broad term "memory".The information measured, processed, tracked, or transmitted to or from any component of the RF system configured to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints as described herein, or any component of the 1100 data processing system, could be provided in any database, register, control list, cache, or memory structure, all of which could be referenced at any suitable time frame. Any such storage options may be included within the broad term "memory" as used herein. Likewise, any of the potential processing elements, modules, and machines described herein should be understood as included within the broad term "processor."Each of the elements of the RF system designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints as described herein, and the 1102 processor, may also have suitable interfaces for receiving, transmitting and / or otherwise communicating data or information in a network environment.

[0065] In certain implementation examples, mechanisms for wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints, as outlined here, can be implemented by logic encoded in one or more tangible media, which may include non-volatile media, e.g., embedded logic provided in an ASIC, in DSP instructions, software (possibly including object code and source code) to be executed by a processor, or other similar machine, etc. In some of these cases, memory elements, such as those in Fig. The memory elements shown in Figure 1104 store data information used for the operations described herein. This includes the ability of the memory elements to store software, logic, code, or processor instructions that are executed to perform the activities described herein. A processor can execute any type of instruction associated with the data or information to achieve the operations listed herein. For example, the processors, such as the one shown in Figure 1104, could... Fig. Figure 11 shows processor 1102 transforming an element or item (e.g., data) from one state or item to another. In another example, the activities outlined here can be implemented with fixed logic or programmable logic (e.g., software / computer instructions executed by a processor), and the elements identified here could be any type of programmable processor, programmable digital logic (e.g., an FPGA, a DSP, an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)), or an ASIC comprising digital logic, software, code, electronic instructions, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0066] The memory elements 1104 can include one or more physical storage devices, such as local memory 1108 and one or more mass storage devices 1110. The local memory can refer to RAM or other non-persistent storage device(s) that is generally used during actual execution of the program code. A mass storage device can be implemented as a hard disk or other persistent data storage device. The processing system 1100 can also include one or more (not shown) cache memories that can provide temporary storage of at least a portion of the program code to reduce the number of times program code needs to be retrieved from the mass storage device 1110 during execution.Various data exchanged using the RF systems designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints as described herein can be stored in the memory elements 1104.

[0067] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the storage elements 1104 can store an application 1118. In various embodiments, the application 1118 can be stored in the local memory 1108, in one or more mass storage devices 1110, or separately from the local memory and the mass storage devices. It is understood that the data processing system 1100 further comprises a (in Fig. 11 (not shown) operating system that can execute application 1118. Application 1118, implemented in the form of executable program code, can be executed by the data processing system 1100, for example, by processor 1102. In response to the execution of the application, the data processing system 1100 can be configured to perform one or more of the operations or procedural steps described herein.

[0068] Input / output (I / O) devices, represented as an input device 1112 and an output device 1114, may optionally be coupled to the data processing system. Examples of input devices may include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, or the like. Examples of output devices may include, but are not limited to, a monitor or display, a loudspeaker, or the like. In some embodiments, the output device 1114 may be any type of screen display, such as a plasma display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an electroluminescent (EL) display, or any other indicator, such as a dial, a barometer, or LEDs.The output device 1114 can be configured to display the result of data communication performed using RF systems with highly integrated mm-wave short-range communication links as described herein. For example, the output device 1114 can be configured to provide a graphical user interface and display a graphical representation of the communications using RF systems configured to implement full-duplex wireless data transfers for rotary joints as described herein. In some implementations, the system may include a (not shown) control for the output device 1114. Input and / or output devices 1112, 1114 may be coupled to the data processing system either directly or through intermediate I / O controls.

[0069] In one embodiment, the input and output devices can be combined into a single input / output device (in Fig. Figure 11 (illustrated with a dashed line surrounding the input device 1112 and the output device 1114) may be implemented. An example of such a combined device is a touch-sensitive display, sometimes called a "touchscreen display" or simply a "touchscreen". In such embodiments, input to the device can be provided by moving a physical object, such as a stylus or a user's finger, on or near the touchscreen display.

[0070] A network adapter 1116 can also optionally be coupled to the data processing system to allow it to be connected to other systems, computer systems, remote network devices, and / or remote storage devices through intervening private or public networks. The network adapter can include a data receiver for receiving data transmitted to the data processing system 1100 by the systems, devices, and / or networks, and a data transmitter for transmitting data from the data processing system 1100 to the systems, devices, and / or networks. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are examples of different types of network adapters that can be used with the data processing system 1100. Selection examples

[0071] The following paragraphs provide examples of various embodiments disclosed herein.

[0072] Example 1 provides a wireless communication system for a swivel joint assembly. The wireless communication system includes a first transceiver and a second transceiver. Both the first and second transceivers have the following: a receive (RX) antenna array designed to detect radio frequency (RF) radiation (i.e., electromagnetic radiation in the RF spectrum) within an RX beam and to generate an RX signal (an electrical signal) based on (e.g.,a receiver antenna array configured to transmit (TX) wireless RF radiation as a TX beam based on a TX signal (an electrical signal); an RX processing circuit arrangement configured to apply OOK demodulation to a signal based on the RX signal to produce a signal indicative of data encoded in the wireless RF radiation captured by the RX antenna array; and a TX processing circuit arrangement configured to apply OOK modulation to produce the TX signal such that the TX signal is based on a signal indicative of the data to be encoded in the wireless RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array.For both the first and second transmit receiver, the RX antenna array is configured such that the RX beam is a fixed RX beam (i.e., the beam, from which the RX antenna array is configured to capture the RF radiation, points in a single, fixed direction, and this beam / direction is not steerable), and the TX antenna array is configured such that the TX beam is a fixed TX beam (i.e., the beam, from which the TX antenna array is configured to transmit the RF radiation, points in a single, fixed direction, and this beam / direction is not steerable), and the beamwidth of both the RX beam and the TX beam is between about 15 and 45 degrees, e.g., between about 20 and 40 degrees. B. about 30 degrees (i.e. the RX and TX beams are relatively wide beams).Furthermore, the TX antenna array of the first transmitter-receiver is configured to transmit RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, the TX antenna array of the second transmitter-receiver is configured to transmit RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, the RX antenna array of the first transmitter-receiver is configured to receive RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, and the RX antenna array of the second transmitter-receiver is configured to receive RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized.

[0073] Example 2 provides the wireless communication system according to Example 1, wherein during operation the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array are arranged such that the TX beam of the TX antenna array of the first transmit receiver overlaps at least partially with the RX beam of the RX antenna array of the second transmit receiver, and the TX beam of the TX antenna array of the second transmit receiver overlaps at least partially with the RX beam of the RX antenna array of the first transmit receiver.

[0074] Example 3 provides the wireless communication system according to Examples 1 or 2, wherein during operation the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array are arranged such that at least some of the RF radiation received by the RX antenna array of the first transmit-receiver originates from the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array of the second transmit-receiver, and at least some of the RF radiation received by the RX antenna array of the second transmit-receiver originates from the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array of the first transmit-receiver.

[0075] Example 4 provides the wireless communication system according to one of the preceding examples, wherein during operation the distance between the first and second transceiver is between 1 and 30 wavelengths at a center frequency of the RF radiation to be received by the RX antenna array and the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array, e.g. the distance may be between about 0.5 and 15 centimeters, e.g. between about 1 and 10 cm if the center frequency is about 60 GHz.

[0076] Example 5 provides the wireless communication system according to one of the preceding examples, wherein the RX processing circuit arrangement is further configured to use an RX-LO signal to perform a frequency down-conversion to generate a lower frequency RX signal based on the RX signal, and the TX processing circuit arrangement is further configured to use a TX-LO signal to perform a frequency up-conversion to generate a TX signal based on a lower frequency TX signal.

[0077] Example 6 provides the wireless communication system according to Example 5, wherein both the RX signal and the TX signal are RF signals with signal frequencies between about 300 MHz and 300 GHz, and both the lower frequency RX signal and the lower frequency TX signal are baseband signals with signal frequencies below 300 MHz or intermediate frequency signals with signal frequencies below the signal frequencies of the RX signal and the TX signal, respectively.

[0078] Example 7 provides the wireless communication system according to Examples 5 or 6, wherein the transceiver further comprises a crystal oscillator configured to generate a crystal reference signal, and wherein the RX-LO signal and / or the TX-LO signal is based on the crystal reference signal. In this way, the RX-LO signal and / or the TX-LO signal can be synthesized based on the crystal reference signal, which may be advantageous for other methods of generating such signals with respect to, for example, temperature drift.

[0079] Example 8 provides the wireless communication system according to one of Examples 5-7, wherein the RX processing circuitry is configured to perform frequency downconversion and the TX processing circuitry is configured to perform frequency upconversion in the analog domain. In some embodiments, the TX processing circuitry may be driven by a digital logic level signal, but the mixing it performs may still be analog.

[0080] Example 9 provides the wireless communication system according to one of the preceding examples, wherein for both the first and second transmit receiver the gain of both the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array is less than 15 decibels (dB), e.g. less than 13 dB (i.e. the antenna arrays have a relatively low gain).

[0081] Example 10 provides the wireless communication system according to one of the preceding examples, wherein both the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array have between 4 and 12 antenna elements.

[0082] Example 11 provides the wireless communication system according to Example 10, where the antenna elements are patch antennas.

[0083] Example 12 provides the wireless communication system according to one of Examples 1-11, wherein the RX antenna array of the first transceiver is configured to receive RF radiation in a first LB frequency range, the RX antenna array of the second transceiver is configured to receive RF radiation in a first HB frequency range, the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation in a second HB frequency range, and the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation in a second LB frequency range.

[0084] Example 13 provides the wireless communication system according to one of Examples 1-11, wherein the RX antenna array of the first transceiver is configured to detect RF radiation in a first HB frequency range, the RX antenna array of the second transceiver is configured to detect RF radiation in a first LB frequency range, the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation in a second LB frequency range, and the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation in a second HB frequency range.

[0085] Example 14 provides the wireless communication system according to Examples 12 or 13, wherein both the first and second HB frequency ranges have frequencies above 60 GHz, e.g., frequencies between about 61 GHz and 64 GHz, and both the first and second LB frequency ranges have frequencies below 60 GHz, e.g., frequencies between about 57 GHz and 59 GHz. In some embodiments, the first and second HB frequency ranges may be substantially the same; however, in other embodiments, the first and second HB frequency ranges may overlap, but may also include frequencies that do not overlap. The same applies to the first and second LB frequency ranges.

[0086] Example 15 provides a swivel assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first and / or second component being configured to rotate relative to the other. In such an assembly, both the first and second components comprise a transceiver comprising a receive (RX) antenna array configured to detect radio frequency (RF) radiation (i.e., electromagnetic radiation in the RF spectrum) as an RX beam and to generate an RX signal (an electrical signal) based on the (e.g., representative or indicative of) RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array, and a transmit (TX) antenna array configured to transmit wireless RF radiation as a TX beam based on a TX signal (an electrical signal).The RX antenna array of the first component's transceiver is configured to receive RF radiation that is right-handedly elliptically polarized; the RX antenna array of the second component's transceiver is configured to receive RF radiation that is left-handedly elliptically polarized; the TX antenna array of the first component's transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation that is left-handedly elliptically polarized; the TX antenna array of the second component's transceiver is configured to transmit RF radiation that is right-handedly elliptically polarized; both the RX beam and the TX beam of the transceiver are fixed beams (i.e.,(it points in a single, fixed direction, and the beam is not steerable), and the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array are arranged such that during operation the TX beam of the first component's transceiver is substantially oriented towards the RX antenna array of the second component's transceiver, and the TX beam of the second component's transceiver is substantially oriented towards the RX antenna array of the first component's transceiver.

[0087] Example 16 provides the swivel assembly according to Example 15, wherein the distance between the first and second components is between 1 and 30 wavelengths at a center frequency of the RF radiation to be received by the RX antenna array and the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array, e.g., the distance can be between about 0.5 and 15 centimeters, e.g., between about 1 and 10 cm if the center frequency is about 60 GHz.

[0088] Example 17 provides the rotary joint assembly according to Examples 15 or 16, wherein only one of the first and second components is configured to rotate with respect to the other (e.g., the first component may be a stator, meaning that it is not configured to rotate, while the second component may be a rotor, meaning that it is configured to rotate with respect to the first component, or vice versa).

[0089] Example 18 provides the swivel joint assembly according to one of Examples 15-17, wherein the first component's transceiver is the first transceiver of the wireless communication system from one of the preceding examples, and wherein the second component's transceiver is the second transceiver of the wireless communication system from one of the preceding examples.

[0090] Example 19 provides an RF transceiver for data transmission in a swivel assembly. The RF transceiver comprises: a receive (RX) antenna array configured to detect radio frequency (RF) radiation (i.e., electromagnetic radiation in the RF spectrum) and to generate an RX signal (an electrical signal) based on (e.g., representative or indicative of) the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array; and a transmit (TX) antenna array configured to transmit wireless RF radiation based on a TX signal (an electrical signal).In such an RF transceiver, the RX antenna array is designed to receive the RF radiation and is right-hand elliptically polarized, and the TX antenna array is designed to transmit the RF radiation and is left-hand elliptically polarized, or the RX antenna array is designed to receive the RF radiation and is left-hand elliptically polarized, and the TX antenna array is designed to transmit the RF radiation and is right-hand elliptically polarized. Furthermore, the RX antenna array is configured such that the RF radiation received by the RX antenna array is in an RX beam oriented in a fixed direction with respect to a plane of the RX antenna array, and the TX antenna array is configured such that the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array is in a TX beam oriented in a fixed direction with respect to a plane of the TX antenna array.

[0091] Example 20 provides the RF transceiver according to Example 19, wherein the beamwidth of the RX beam and / or the TX beam is between about 15 and 45 degrees, e.g. between about 20 and 40 degrees, e.g. about 30 degrees.

[0092] Example 21 provides the RF transceiver according to Examples 19 or 20, wherein the gain of both the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array is less than 15 decibels (dB), e.g. less than 13 dB (i.e. the antenna arrays have a relatively low gain).

[0093] Example 22 provides the RF transceiver according to one of Examples 19-21, further comprising: an RX processing circuit arrangement configured to apply OOK demodulation to a signal based on the RX signal to produce a signal indicative of data encoded in the wireless RF radiation captured by the RX antenna array; and a TX processing circuit arrangement configured to apply OOK modulation to produce the TX signal such that the TX signal is based on a signal indicative of the data to be encoded in the wireless RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array.

[0094] Example 23 provides the RF transceiver according to any one of Examples 19-22, wherein, if the RX antenna array is configured to receive RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, and the TX antenna array is configured to transmit RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, the RF transceiver is then the first transceiver of the wireless communication system from any one of the preceding examples or the transceiver of the first component of the swivel assembly from any one of the preceding examples, and, if the RX antenna array is configured to receive RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, and the TX antenna array is configured to transmit RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized,The RF transceiver is then the second transceiver of the wireless communication system from one of the previous examples, or the transceiver of the second component of the swivel assembly from one of the previous examples. Variations and implementations

[0095] Although embodiments of the present disclosure are described above with reference to example implementations, as in Fig. As shown and described in Figures 1-11, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that the various doctrines described above are applicable to a wide variety of other implementations.

[0096] In certain contexts, the features discussed here may be applicable to automotive systems, safety-critical industrial applications, medical systems, scientific measuring equipment, wireless and wired communication, radio, radar, industrial process control, audio and video equipment, power sensing, measuring equipment (which may be highly precise) and other digitally processing-based systems.

[0097] Furthermore, certain embodiments of the above-discussed digital signal processing technologies can be deployed for medical imaging, patient monitoring, medical measurement equipment, and home healthcare. This could include lung monitoring devices, accelerometers, heart rate monitors, pacemakers, and so on. Other applications may include automotive technologies for safety systems (e.g., stability control systems, driver assistance systems, braking systems, infotainment, and interior applications of any kind).

[0098] In other exemplary scenarios, the teachings of this disclosure may be applicable in industrial markets that feature process control systems which help to drive productivity, energy efficiency, and reliability. In consumer applications, the teachings of the signal processing circuits discussed above may be used for image processing, autofocus, and image stabilization (e.g., for digital cameras, camcorders, etc.). Other consumer applications may include audio and video processors for home theater systems, DVD recorders, and high-definition televisions.

[0099] In the foregoing discussion of embodiments, components of a system, such as diplexers, antenna modules, and / or other components, can be readily exchanged, replaced, or otherwise modified to meet specific requirements regarding a circuit arrangement. Furthermore, it is understood that the use of complementary electronic devices, hardware, software, etc., provides an equally viable option for implementing the teachings of this disclosure concerning full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints.

[0100] Components of various systems for implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints, as proposed here, may include an electronic circuit arrangement for performing the functions described herein. In some cases, one or more parts of the system may be provided by a processor specifically designed to perform these functions. For example, the processor may include one or more application-specific components or programmable logic gates configured to perform the functions described herein. The circuit arrangement may operate in an analog domain, a digital domain, or a mixed-signal domain. In some cases, the processor may be configured to perform the functions described herein by executing one or more instructions stored on a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium.

[0101] In one embodiment, any number of electrical circuits shown in the figures can be implemented on a circuit board of an associated electronic device. The circuit board can be a general-purpose printed circuit board (PCB) that can hold various components of the electronic device's internal electronic system and also provide connectors for other peripherals. In particular, the circuit board can provide the electrical connections through which the other components of the system can communicate electrically. Any suitable processors (including digital signal processors, microprocessors, auxiliary chipsets, etc.), computer-readable non-volatile memory elements, etc., can be suitably coupled to the circuit board based on specific configuration requirements, processing requirements, computer designs, etc.Other components, such as external storage, additional sensors, controls for an audio / video display, and peripheral devices, can be attached to the board as plug-in cards, via cables, or integrated into the board itself. In various embodiments, the functionalities described herein can be implemented in emulation form as software or firmware executed in one or more configurable (e.g., programmable) elements arranged within a structure that supports these functions. The software or firmware providing the emulation can be provided on a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium containing instructions that enable a processor to execute these functionalities.

[0102] In another embodiment, the electrical circuits from the present figures can be implemented as standalone modules (e.g., in a device with associated components and a circuit arrangement configured to perform a specific application or function) or as plug-in modules in application-specific hardware of electronic devices. It is noted that particular embodiments of the present disclosure implementing full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints can be readily incorporated, either wholly or partially, into a system-on-a-chip (SOC) package. An SOC represents an integrated circuit (IC) that integrates components of a computer or other electronic system onto a single chip. It can include digital, analog, mixed-signal, and often RF capabilities; all of these can be provided on a single chip substrate.Other embodiments may include a multi-chip module (MCM) with several separate ICs located within a single electronic package and configured to interact with each other through the electronic package. In various other embodiments, RF systems configured to implement the proposed full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints may be implemented in one or more silicon cores in ASICs, FPGAs, and other semiconductor chips.

[0103] It is also essential to note that all of the specifications, dimensions, and relationships outlined herein (e.g., the number of processors, logical operations, etc.) are presented for illustrative and teaching purposes only. Such information can be varied considerably without deviating from the idea of ​​the present disclosure. The descriptions apply only to a non-limiting example and should be interpreted accordingly. In the preceding description, embodiments were described with reference to specific processor and / or component arrangements. Various modifications and changes can be made to such embodiments. The description and the drawings should therefore be considered in an illustrative rather than a limiting sense.

[0104] It should be noted that the numerous examples provided herein may describe an interaction involving two, three, four, or more electrical components. However, this is done solely for clarity and illustrative purposes. It is understood that the system can be assembled in any suitable manner. Along with similar design elements, any of the illustrated components, modules, and elements of the present figures can be combined in various possible configurations, all of which clearly fall within the broad scope of protection of this disclosure. In certain cases, it may be easier to describe one or more of the functionalities of a particular set of processes simply by mentioning a limited number of electrical elements.It is understood that the electrical circuits shown in the figures and their teachings are easily scalable and can accommodate a large number of components as well as more intricate / complex arrangements and configurations. Accordingly, the examples provided should not limit the scope of protection or restrict the broad teachings of the electrical circuits as they may be applied to a variety of other architectures.

[0105] It should be noted that references in the present disclosure to various features (e.g., elements, structures, modules, components, steps, actions, characteristics, etc.) contained in "one embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," "another embodiment," "some embodiments," "different embodiments," "other embodiments," "an alternative embodiment," and the like, are to be understood as meaning that such features are contained in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure and may, but do not necessarily, be combined in the same embodiments.

[0106] It is also important to note that the functions relating to the wireless full-duplex data transfer for rotary joints proposed here illustrate only some of the possible functions that can be performed by or within a system illustrated in the present figures. Some of these operations can, where appropriate, be deleted or removed, or these operations can be modified or substantially altered without departing from the scope of protection of this disclosure. Furthermore, the timing of these operations can be substantially altered. The preceding operational flows have been presented for illustrative and discussion purposes only. Substantial flexibility is provided by embodiments described here insofar as any suitable arrangements, chronologies, configurations, and timing mechanisms can be provided without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0107] It is noted that all optional features of the device described above can also be implemented with respect to the method or process described herein, and details in the examples can be used in one or more embodiments anywhere.

[0108] A person skilled in the art may determine numerous other changes, replacements, variations, alterations and modifications, and it is intended that the present disclosure includes all such changes, replacements, variations, alterations and modifications as falling within the scope of protection of the attached claims.

[0109] According to one aspect, RF systems are disclosed that are designed to implement full-duplex wireless data transfer for rotary joints. An exemplary RF system features a 60 GHz short-range communication link implemented using elliptically (e.g., circularly) polarized antennas. Such a system can provide a high-speed mm-wave broadband communication link in a manner associated with simple design and operation, mechanical integrity, and reduced power consumption compared to alternative solutions.

Claims

[1] A wireless communication system for a rotary joint assembly, the wireless communication system comprising: a first transceiver; and a second transceiver, wherein both the first and second transceivers comprise: a receive (RX) antenna array for detecting radio frequency (RF) radiation of an RX beam and for generating an RX signal based on the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array, a transmit (TX) antenna array for transmitting RF radiation as a TX beam based on a TX signal, RX processing circuitry for applying on-off keying (OOK) demodulation to a signal based on the RX signal to generate a signal indicative of data encoded in the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array, and TX processing circuitry for applying OOK modulation to generate the TX signal based on a signal indicative of the data to be encoded in the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array, where the following applies to both the first and second transceiver: the RX beam is a fixed RX beam, the TX beam is a fixed TX beam, and a beam width of both the RX beam and the TX beam is between 20 and 45 degrees, and where: the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation which is left-handed elliptically polarized, the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation which is right-handed elliptically polarized, the RX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to detect RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, and the RX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to detect RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized. [2] The wireless communication system of claim 1, wherein during operation, the TX beam of the TX antenna array of the first transceiver at least partially overlaps the RX beam of the RX antenna array of the second transceiver and the TX beam of the TX antenna array of the second transceiver at least partially overlaps the RX beam of the RX antenna array of the first transceiver. [3] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein during operation: at least a portion of the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array of the first transceiver originates from the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array of the second transceiver, and at least a portion of the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array of the second transceiver originates from the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array of the first transceiver. [4] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein during operation a distance between the first and second transceivers is between 1 and 30 wavelengths at a center frequency of the RF radiation to be detected by the RX antenna array and the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array. [5] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the RX processing circuitry is further configured to use an RX local oscillator (LO) signal to perform frequency down-conversion to generate a lower frequency RX signal based on the RX signal, and the TX processing circuitry is further configured to use a TX LO signal to perform frequency upconversion to generate a TX signal based on a lower frequency TX signal. [6] A wireless communication system according to claim 5, wherein: both the RX signal and the TX signal are RF signals with signal frequencies between approximately 300 MHz and 300 GHz, and both the lower frequency RX signal and the lower frequency TX signal are a baseband signal with signal frequencies below 300 MHz or an intermediate frequency signal with signal frequencies below the signal frequencies of the RX signal and the TX signal, respectively. [7] The wireless communication system of claim 5 or 6, wherein the transceiver further comprises a crystal oscillator for generating a crystal reference signal, and wherein the RX LO signal and / or the TX LO signal is based on the crystal reference signal. [8] A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the RX processing circuitry is configured to perform frequency down-conversion and the TX processing circuitry is configured to perform frequency up-conversion in the analog domain. [9] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein for both the first and second transceivers, a gain of both the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array is less than 13 decibels. [10] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array comprises between 4 and 12 antenna elements. [11] A wireless communication system according to claim 10, wherein the antenna elements are patch antennas. [12] A wireless communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the RX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to receive the RF radiation in a first low-band frequency range, the RX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to receive the RF radiation in a first high-band frequency range, the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation in a second high-band frequency range, and the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation in a second low-band frequency range. [13] A wireless communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: the RX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to detect the RF radiation in a first high-band frequency range, the RX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to detect the RF radiation in a first low-band frequency range, the TX antenna array of the first transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation in a second low-band frequency range, and the TX antenna array of the second transceiver is designed to transmit the RF radiation in a second high-band frequency range. [14] A wireless communication system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: both the first and second high-band frequency ranges have frequencies above 60 GHz, and both the first and second low-band frequency ranges have frequencies below 60 GHz. [15] Swivel joint assembly comprising: a first component; and a second component, wherein the first and / or second component is adapted to rotate with respect to the other, wherein each of the first and second components comprises a transceiver comprising: a receive (RX) antenna array for detecting radio frequency (RF) radiation as an RX beam and for generating an RX signal based on the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array, and a transmit (TX) antenna array for transmitting RF radiation as a TX beam based on a TX signal, and where: the RX antenna array of the transceiver of the first component is designed to detect RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, the RX antenna array of the transceiver of the second component is designed to detect RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, the TX antenna array of the transceiver of the first component is designed to transmit RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, the TX antenna array of the transceiver of the second component is designed to transmit RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, both the RX beam and the TX beam of the transceiver are fixed beams, and during operation, the TX beam of the transceiver of the first component is substantially oriented toward the RX antenna array of the transceiver of the second component and the TX beam of the transceiver of the second component is substantially oriented toward the RX antenna array of the transceiver of the first component. [16] The pivot assembly of claim 15, wherein a distance between the first and second components is between about 0.5 and 15 centimeters. [17] A rotary joint assembly according to claim 15 or 16, wherein only one of the first and second components is adapted to rotate with respect to the other (e.g., the first component may be a stator, meaning that it is not adapted to rotate, while the second component may be a rotor, meaning that it is adapted to rotate with respect to the first component, or vice versa). [18] A radio frequency (RF) transceiver for data transmission in a rotary joint assembly, the RF transceiver comprising: a receive (RX) antenna array for detecting radio frequency (RF) radiation and generating an RX signal based on the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array; and a transmit (TX) antenna array for transmitting RF radiation based on a TX signal, where: the RX antenna array is designed to detect RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized and the TX antenna array is designed to transmit RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized, or the RX antenna array is designed to detect RF radiation that is left-handed elliptically polarized and the TX antenna array is designed to transmit RF radiation that is right-handed elliptically polarized, the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array is in an RX beam oriented in a fixed direction with respect to the RX antenna array, and the RF radiation transmitted by the TX antenna array is in a TX beam oriented in a fixed direction with respect to the TX antenna array. [19] The RF transceiver of claim 18, wherein a beamwidth of the RX beam and / or the TX beam is between about 20 and 40 degrees and a gain of both the RX antenna array and the TX antenna array is less than 13 decibels. [20] An RF transceiver according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising: RX processing circuitry for applying on-off keying (OOK) demodulation to a signal based on the RX signal to generate a signal indicative of data encoded in the RF radiation detected by the RX antenna array; and TX processing circuitry for applying OOK modulation to generate the TX signal based on a signal indicative of the data to be encoded in the RF radiation to be transmitted by the TX antenna array.

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