Data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems (120). The data transmission system has at least one current collector system (120) having at least one current collector unit (100) for transmitting current between a rail system (150) having a conductor line (151) and an electrical load (160), wherein the current collector unit (100) has a sliding contact carrier (104) with a sliding contact unit (102), which can be coupled to the conductor line (151) in order to form a sliding contact, and wherein the current collector system (120) has a data transmission unit (107), which is designed (160) for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system (120) and / or the electrical load (160). The data transmission system also has a central base unit (108) which is designed for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit (107) and / or the electrical load (160) such that data comprising status data of the current collector system (120) and / or control data for the current collector system (120) and / or for the electrical load (160) can be transmitted between the base unit (108) and the data transmission unit (107).

Description

[0001] Data transmission system for transferring data from current collector systems

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of electrical current collectors. In particular, the present invention relates to a data transmission system and a method for transmitting data from current collector systems.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] Electrical power transmission systems, especially those with pantographs, are crucial for the efficient and reliable operation of various transportation and industrial applications, particularly in industrial manufacturing facilities. These systems are designed to maintain continuous electrical contact with overhead or side-mounted conductor rails, thus ensuring a stable power supply for moving vehicles or machinery.

[0006] To reliably monitor the operating and maintenance status of pantographs, it is necessary to test their functionality at specific intervals. This requires taking the pantograph system and its components out of service to determine the degree of wear. This leads to operational delays and reduces the efficiency of the pantograph system.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a current collector system with which the operating state as well as the maintenance state can be determined in real time in order to increase the efficiency of a current collector system.

[0008] This task is solved by a data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems and a method for transmitting data from current collector systems according to the independent patent claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems is described. The data transmission system comprises at least one current collector system, including at least one current collector unit for current transmission between a rail system with a conductor rail and an electrical load. The current collector unit has a sliding contact carrier with a sliding contact unit, which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail. The current collector system further comprises a data transmission unit, which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units (active and / or passive components of the current collector system and / or the current collector unit) and / or the electrical load of the current collector system.

[0010] Furthermore, the data transmission system has a central base unit which is designed for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit, so that comprehensive status data of the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer and / or control data for the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer can be transferred between the base unit and the data transmission unit.

[0011] According to a further aspect, a method for transmitting data from current collector systems is provided. The method comprises providing at least one current collector system, including at least one current collector unit for current transmission between a rail system with a conductor rail and an electrical consumer. The current collector unit has a sliding contact carrier with a sliding contact unit that can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail. The current collector system includes a data transmission unit configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer. Furthermore, the method includes providing a central base unit configured for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit.Furthermore, the procedure involves the transmission of data, including status data of the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer and / or control data for the current collector system and / or for the electrical consumer, between the base unit and the data transmission unit.

[0012] The current collector system, including the current collector unit, is designed to travel along a rail system, which may be located, for example, on the floor, along a side wall, or along the roof of a production hall. The current collector system may, for example, include an electric drive unit to propel the current collector system along the rail system.

[0013] The current collector unit is configured to draw electrical current from a conductor, such as a conductor rail of a rail system, and supply it to an electrical load, such as a vehicle motor, a production system in a manufacturing hall, a power supply unit in an electric vehicle, or a transport system in a manufacturing hall. Conductor rails are safe and economical power supply systems for track-guided, mobile loads. Conductor rails can be used, for example, in conveyor and transport systems.

[0014] Copper conductors serve, for example, as a power supply. Furthermore, current can be drawn along the rail system to drive the current collector system.

[0015] The current collector unit can have a base carrier to which the sliding contact carrier is attached. The base carrier has a base support structure to which the components of the current collector unit are attached. Examples of a base carrier are a plate-shaped carrier, a frame, a housing, or a similar structural element.

[0016] The sliding contact unit forms a current collector head configured to establish and maintain sliding electrical contact with a conductor, such as the conductor rail, in order to draw electrical current from the conductor rail. The sliding contact unit can, for example, carry one or more sliding contacts. Examples of sliding contacts include carbon elements (so-called carbon brushes), a metal shoe, or a similar conductive element. Specifically, two current contact elements are provided. These can be placed on a pivoting rocker to compensate for irregularities along the conductor rail during operation and to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. The sliding contact carrier serves as a support structure for the sliding contact unit. Specifically, the sliding contact carrier is positioned between the base carrier and the conductor rail.

[0017] The data transmission unit includes, in particular, a transmitting and receiving device by means of which corresponding data can be transmitted to and received from the base unit. Furthermore, the data transmission unit includes a data processing unit that processes the data for sending and receiving and selects the signal transmission path. For example, the data processing unit can select specific transmission protocols depending on the network mode described below and select a corresponding destination receiver, such as another second or third data transmission unit or another base unit, for transmitting the data.

[0018] Furthermore, the data transmission unit is designed for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system. These functional units define, for example, active or passive components of the current collector system, such as various sensors and / or the drive unit for propelling the current collector system along the rail system. A functional unit, understood in this sense, can also be a functional unit of a current collector unit or a consumer, enabling the transmission of various data from the current collector unit, such as position data or other status data measured by a sensor system within the current collector unit.

[0019] The condition data of the pantograph system refers, for example, to data describing the operating state of the pantograph system. This can include, for example, the speed of the pantograph system and / or consumer along the rail system, measured temperatures at specific locations of a pantograph system and / or consumer, environmental parameters such as ambient temperature and humidity, or the current diverted from the conductor rail to the consumer over time. Condition data can also include unique identification numbers of the pantograph units and / or pantograph systems and / or the consumer. Furthermore, the condition data can be obtained individually from the pantograph units arranged on a pantograph system. This allows, for example, the determination of wear or a defect in an individual pantograph unit as well as in the entire pantograph system.

[0020] The control data defines specific instructions for a current collector system, such as acceleration, deceleration, and / or speed along the rail system, which is to be set by the drive unit. Furthermore, the control data can relate to the extraction of a certain current from the conductor rail and / or the transmission of a predetermined current to the consumer.

[0021] The data transmission unit can also continuously receive relevant data in real time and transmit it to the base unit. Additionally or alternatively, the data transmission unit can include a data storage unit, described in more detail below, to store the received or future transmitted data. At a predetermined time, the data can then be transmitted together to the base unit, or certain data, such as control commands, can be selectively transmitted to the functional units at a specific time. For example, each current collector system and / or each current collector unit mounted on it can have a corresponding storage element and store the data. This data can be transmitted continuously in real time or at predetermined intervals (for example, via a 5G network).

[0022] The central base unit receives data from one or more pantograph systems. Furthermore, the central base unit can transmit predefined data to a single pantograph system connected via a signal connection. The central base unit therefore includes a computer or microprocessor to process the data. The central base unit can also be a mobile device, such as a tablet computer or a smartphone.

[0023] Furthermore, the central base unit has corresponding control programs and / or monitoring programs to control and / or monitor the signal-connected current collector systems. Accordingly, the base unit forms a central control unit according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] The central base unit can, for example, include input devices such as a keyboard for an operator to enter data and instructions for the pantograph systems. Furthermore, the central base unit can include an output unit, such as a screen, to display the relevant control data and / or status data of each pantograph system.

[0025] The central base unit can be located locally near the current collector system and transmit or receive data to and from the current collector systems via a local network, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) based on WLAN wireless technology. The present invention provides a data transmission system that can process data for a complex system for drawing power from a conductor rail for one or more current collector systems. Since the central base unit receives and transmits all status and / or control data from all connected power transmission systems, efficient control and efficient planning of maintenance activities can be implemented.In summary, the present invention provides a central base unit to which the individual current collector systems are connected via signals at decentralized locations. These systems transmit their respective data from decentralized positions to a common central base unit. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide multiple decentralized base units. In summary, the functional units, such as controllers, actuators, and sensors, of the mobile current collector systems can be networked.

[0026] According to another exemplary embodiment, the central base unit is installed on the current collector system and configured to exchange data bidirectionally with the data transmission units of the other current collector systems. Thus, for example, the base unit, along with the corresponding control and monitoring software, can be located on one current collector system, with all other current collector systems being signal-linked to the central base unit. The central base unit is therefore movable along the rail system together with a current collector system and is not permanently installed. This eliminates the need for installation space for a stationary base unit.According to another exemplary embodiment, the base unit forms a central server computer, wherein the server computer is connected to the data transmission unit via a non-local network, in particular the Internet, for bidirectional data exchange. The data transmission units of the individual signal pickup systems are connected to the server computer, for example, as client units. In order to be coupled with the server computer, the individual data transmission units have, for example, a SIM card module to be connected to a mobile network for data exchange, so that data can be exchanged with the server computer via the Internet.Accordingly, a suitable cloud network can be implemented, whereby, for example, an operator can access the server computer and the server computer can transmit control data or obtain status data to the individual connected clients (data transmission unit of the individual signal collection units).

[0027] This makes it possible to implement a worldwide network for the deployment and control of individual pantograph systems, particularly in a cloud-based manner, using the central base unit.

[0028] According to another exemplary embodiment, the data transmission unit and the base unit are configured to exchange data using the DECT standard or the DECT NR+ standard. Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) is an international standard for telecommunications using radio technology, especially for wireless data transmission. This ensures stable and secure data transmission.

[0029] In particular, the DECT-2020 standard can be used for data transmission between data transmission units and / or the central base unit. The DECT-2020 standard makes it easy to set up, manage, and own a private 5G-IoT wireless network and to connect a variety of power consumer systems at very low operating costs.

[0030] In particular, the DECT NR+ standard (ETSI Standard DECT-2020 NR) can be used. This operates on the global 1.9 GHz DECT band, which significantly reduces deployment costs, as no frequency planning or certification by operators is required. The range and dense topology of DECT NR+ make the technology highly scalable. For example, suitable DECT antennas can be integrated into the pantograph systems (such as the electronics box described below). Due to the good range, the number of stationary radio masts required for signal amplification or similar purposes can be reduced.

[0031] According to another exemplary embodiment, the functional unit of the current collector system includes a measuring device configured to measure the current and voltage between the conductor rail and the load, wherein the measuring device is coupled to the data transmission unit to transmit the measured current power. In particular, the measuring device can determine the current power between the conductor rail and the load from this measurement. The measuring device can, for example, include a Hall sensor configured to measure current power without contact. The Hall sensor can, for example, be arranged or integrated on a power board as described below, or be arranged as a component in the electronics box.Using the measuring device for measuring the current between the conductor rail and the load, the power consumption, power peaks, and the current draw from the conductor rail can be determined. For example, this allows conclusions to be drawn about contactless points between the conductor rail and the sliding contact unit. For instance, poorly joined rails (due to the accumulation of dirt) can cause high-resistance rail joints, which can thus be detected. The measurement data from the measuring device can be transmitted, for example, by the data transmission unit to the central base unit.

[0032] According to another exemplary embodiment, the functional unit of the current collector system includes a control unit, the control unit being configured to control an electrical consumer unit of the current collector system. The control unit is coupled to the data transmission unit for transmitting control data between the conductor rail and the electrical consumer unit. Control data can be transmitted from the central base unit to the base unit via a data transmission unit, thus enabling the control of the electrical consumer unit of the current collector system.

[0033] According to another exemplary embodiment, the functional unit of the current collector system includes a position detection system configured to determine the position of the current collector system along the conductor rail. The position detection system is coupled to the data transmission unit to transmit the determined position of the current collector system along the conductor rail. The position detection system includes position sensors that can determine the exact position of the current collector system relative to the rail system. Components of the position detection system can be arranged on the power board. Furthermore, components of the current collector system can form separate electronic components within the electronics box or be arranged outside the electronics box, for example, by mounting them on the electronics box or on the mounting bracket.Position data from a current collector system can be transmitted to the base unit via a data transmission unit, so that the exact position of a current collector system can be determined, especially in real time.

[0034] According to another exemplary embodiment, the position detection system includes an optical sensor, for example a camera, for capturing image data, whereby the position of the current collector system along the conductor rail can be determined by means of image analysis of the image data. The position detection system itself can include a corresponding control unit that processes the image data and determines the position of the current collector system along the rail system based on image analysis methods, such as contrast analysis, and / or a comparison with reference images from a database. Alternatively, the position detection system can include a data transmission unit that transmits the image data, particularly wirelessly, to an external control unit, for example a server computer, in order to determine the position based on the captured image data.

[0035] According to another exemplary embodiment, the position detection system is configured to detect at least one marker element along the rail system by means of the optical sensor, wherein the marker element contains information regarding the position of the current collector system along the conductor rail. The marker element can, for example, contain specific route information indicative of the location of the marker element on the rail system. For instance, the marker element can have a QR code or barcode in which the route information is stored. Furthermore, other geometric symbols containing specific route information can be depicted on the marker element. Thus, the optical sensor can determine the current position of the current collector system.The optical sensor can, for example, be mounted at a distance from the electronics box, such as on the mounting bracket or directly on the electronics box itself.

[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment, the position detection system includes a magnetic sensor for measuring specific magnetic fields along the conductor rail, whereby the position of the current collector system along the conductor rail can be determined based on the measured specific magnetic field. The specific magnetic field can be generated, in particular, by means of magnetic elements and / or magnetic strips along the rail system. The individual magnetic elements can be arranged at a predetermined distance along the rail system. Each magnetic element can generate a specific magnetic field, which is detected by the magnetic sensor (for example, a Hall sensor) of the position detection system. The specific magnetic field is thus indicative of a particular position along the rail system.The magnetic element can be, for example, a passive magnetic element or an active magnetic element (e.g., comprising controllable coils) to generate the specific magnetic field. Furthermore, a magnetic strip can be arranged along the rail system. The magnetic strip can, for example, comprise a multitude of magnetic elements arranged along the rail system, exhibiting, for instance, a specific pole sequence (north, south). The specific magnetic field is thus composed, for example, of multiple magnets (particularly with a specific pole sequence: e.g., NSNSSNSS). The magnetic strip can also include controllable coils to variably adjust the specific magnetic field. Based on the measured magnetic fields during the movement of the current collector system, the magnetic sensor can determine an absolute position along the rail system.This allows for the provision of a contactless position detection system.

[0037] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system includes an acceleration sensor for determining vibrations during movement of the current collector system along the rail system. The acceleration sensor is configured to determine the acceleration and deceleration of the current collector system relative to the rail system. Accordingly, vibrations caused by movement along the rail system can also be measured.

[0038] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system includes an environmental sensor for determining the environment surrounding the current collector system, wherein the environmental sensor is coupled to the data transmission unit for transmitting data indicative of determining the environment surrounding the current collector system. The environmental sensor includes, in particular, a temperature sensor for determining the temperature in the environment of the current collector system, a humidity sensor for determining the humidity in the environment of the current collector system, and / or a thermal imaging camera configured to determine a temperature profile of the rail system. In exemplary embodiments, the environmental sensor is a temperature sensor for determining the temperature in the environment of the current collector system and / or a humidity sensor for determining the humidity in the environment of the current collector system.This allows environmental influences during the operation of the pantograph system to be investigated, enabling conclusions to be drawn about wear and tear on the one hand and / or damage to the pantograph system or the rail system on the other. The environmental sensors can also be integrated into the power board. Determining environmental influences using the environmental sensor in the pantograph system can also provide insights into the environment during the operation of the connected device. For example, quality parameters during the operation of an electrical device can be determined and documented accordingly.

[0039] According to another exemplary embodiment, the functional unit of the current collector system includes a sensor system configured to measure the position (i.e., a distance and / or contact pressure) of the sliding contact unit relative to the conductor rail. The sensor system is coupled to the data transmission unit to transmit data indicating the position of the sliding contact unit relative to the conductor rail. The sensor system comprises one or more sensors of the same or different design. The sensors are configured to detect, measure, or monitor various physical quantities or conditions and provide corresponding output signals. In particular, the sensor system measures parameters or physical quantities that indicate the position of the sliding contact unit relative to the conductor rail.This can be implemented, for example, using the position sensors, distance sensors, angle sensors, and / or optical sensors described below. The sensor system can measure the position of the sliding contact unit relative to the conductor rail and, consequently, the contact pressure, particularly the change in contact pressure over time, as the pantograph unit travels along the rail system. This sensor data regarding the position of the sliding contact units and the contact pressure, or its changes, can be read and processed in real time or for predetermined periods. By analyzing the changes in the position of the sliding contact units, conclusions can be drawn about the wear of the sliding contacts.Furthermore, the sensors can detect damage in the rail system, since when a damaged section of the rail system is passed over, the position and corresponding contact pressure of the sliding contact units is changed at the point of damage.

[0040] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system has a unique identification number, so that the received status data of the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer and / or the transmitted control data for the current collector system and / or for the electrical consumer can be assigned to the current collector system by the base unit. The identification number is accordingly part of the status data. In one embodiment, the data transmission unit can send the identification number as part of the status data to a base unit, which, for example, is located in a fixed position near or on the rail system. For example, the data transmission system can be an R.The RFID unit, when passing the central base unit (which then acts as an RFID readout unit), transmits status data (e.g., the identification number) to the base unit and, based in particular on the detected identification number, transmits control data to the current collector system and / or the electrical consumer. Along with the transmitted data, the data transmission unit can send the corresponding unique identification number, enabling targeted data assignment.

[0041] For example, the pantograph system can have a data storage unit that stores collected status data and transmits it to the base station as it passes. Furthermore, control data can be transmitted to the pantograph system as it passes the base station. This control data can then be stored in the data storage unit and activated at specific times. In other words, all control data for an entire traverse of the pantograph system along the rail system until its next passage can be transmitted in a single operation. Therefore, continuous data transmission is not necessary.

[0042] The current collector systems travel along the rail system, particularly in a loop (e.g., in a circle), collecting the data to be measured and storing it internally in the data storage unit. The base station is installed near or on the rail system so that the collected data is transmitted as the system passes. This data transmission can be performed by all passing current collector systems.

[0043] Instead of placing the central base station directly near or on the rail system, at least one (stationary) signal amplification unit (repeater, gateway) can be positioned on or near the rail system. Multiple (stationary) signal amplification units can also be installed. The pantograph systems travel along the rail system and, upon passing the signal amplification units, can transmit status data directly or from the data storage unit to the signal amplification unit, and the signal amplification units transmit the control signals to the data storage unit. The signal amplification units have a signal connection (via DECT, WLAN, or a wired connection, etc.) to the central base unit, enabling the transmission of the read status data and / or the control data.

[0044] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system has a readable RFID unit in which the unique identification number is stored. For example, a readout unit, which is then designed as a base station with an RFID readout unit, can be provided at a specific position along the rail system so that the RFID units can be read when a current collector system passes by. Several RFID readout units can also be provided, which then transmit the data to the central base station. In particular, while an RFID unit is being read, the current collector system can be identified using its unique identification number, and simultaneously or shortly thereafter, the corresponding status data can be obtained or corresponding control data transmitted.

[0045] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector unit has a unique identification number, so that the data received by the current collector unit can be assigned to the base unit of the current collector unit.

[0046] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector unit has a readable RFID unit in which the unique identification number of the current collector unit is stored. For example, a readout unit can be provided at certain positions along the rail system, as described above for the current collector systems, so that the RFID units can be read when the current collector unit passes by. In particular, while an RFID unit is being read, the current collector unit can be identified using the unique identification number, and simultaneously or shortly thereafter, the corresponding status data can be obtained or corresponding control data transmitted.

[0047] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the current collector system comprises an electronics box with a power unit, wherein the power unit has a current input, which is coupled to the sliding contact unit of the current collector unit for drawing current from the conductor rail, and a current output, which can be connected to the load. The power unit is configured to partially divert or loop through the current from the conductor rail for the load. Electrical connecting cables, in particular for each phase and also for the PE protective conductor of the conductor rail, can be connected between the individual sliding contact units to a current input of an electronics box of the current collector system. Correspondingly, at least one electrical connecting cable can be arranged between the current output of the electronics box and the electrical load.The term "loop-through" refers to the process of passing current from (especially one phase of) the conductor rail to a load. The load then receives the current it needs to operate. Because the current is looped through the control unit, various measurements can be performed. Additionally or alternatively, "tapping" allows an additional portion of the current to be drawn from a phase of the conductor rail to supply electrical loads within the current collector system.

[0048] According to another exemplary embodiment, the data transmission unit has an antenna device which is arranged inside the electronics box or protrudes from the electronics box, in particular without protruding from it, wherein the data transmission unit is arranged, in particular, on a power board within the electronics box. Thus, the antenna device can be protected inside the electronics box, allowing for a compact design. In an alternative embodiment, the antenna device can also protrude from the electronics box to improve the signal. According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system has a mounting bracket on which the current collector unit is arranged and to which the load can be attached, wherein the mounting bracket can be movably coupled to the rail system. In particular, the electronics box is attached to the mounting bracket.Furthermore, several current collector units can be arranged on the mounting bracket, all of which can be electrically coupled to the control unit via the current input. Accordingly, the electronics box can loop through, monitor, and / or partially divert the current for multiple current collector units.

[0049] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the current collector system comprises at least one additional current collector unit for current transmission between the rail system with conductor rail and the electrical load. This additional current collector unit has a further sliding contact carrier with a further sliding contact unit, which can be coupled to the conductor rail to form a sliding contact. The additional current collector unit is coupled to the current input of the electronics box for drawing current from the conductor rail. In particular, the current collector units can be arranged on the common mounting bracket. In a preferred embodiment, five or six current collector units can be coupled to the mounting bracket. Each current collector unit can draw current from a specific phase of the conductor rail.

[0050] According to another exemplary embodiment, the data transmission unit for bidirectional data exchange with the base unit is designed such that data from the current collector unit and the other current collector unit can be transferred between the base unit and the data transmission unit. Thus, a data transmission unit, which is, for example, compactly arranged within the electronics box of the current collector system, can receive or send the respective data (each bearing the corresponding unique identification number) from the respective current collector unit to the common data transmission unit.

[0051] According to another exemplary embodiment, the current collector system has a second data transmission unit, which is configured for direct or indirect bidirectional data exchange with the base unit such that data from the other current collector unit can be transferred directly or indirectly between the base unit and the second data transmission unit. The (first) data transmission unit and the second data transmission unit can thus establish a parallel data transmission path to the central base unit in order to exchange data between the respective current collector units. The first and the second data transmission units can, for example, each be arranged on an associated current collector unit. In other words, each current collector unit can have an associated data transmission unit.Furthermore, the first and second data transmission units can be arranged at a distance from the current collector unit within the electronics box, for example, by connecting them via a wired signal link. Accordingly, the first and second data transmission units can then be integrated onto a common power board within the electronics box. This allows for a compact design.

[0052] With the described embodiment, a network in a star topology can be implemented, whereby each individual current collector unit exchanges the corresponding data with the central base unit in parallel and / or sequentially. Such a star topology has the advantage of higher bandwidth, since direct communication with the base unit takes place. Furthermore, such a star topology has the advantage that, if one data transmission unit is selected, the other data transmission units can exchange further data with the central base unit.

[0053] According to another exemplary embodiment, the data transmission unit and the second data transmission unit are configured to exchange data with each other, wherein only the data transmission unit is configured to exchange bidirectional data with the base unit in such a way that data from the second data transmission unit can be exchanged indirectly with the base unit via the data transmission unit.

[0054] The described embodiment allows for the implementation of a network in a line topology, in which the individual data transmission units are arranged serially. A line topology can also be understood as a group of several data transmission units connected side-by-side and subsequently transmitting signals to a downstream data transmission unit. Only one central data transmission unit is configured, either in terms of hardware or software, to establish a corresponding signal connection with the central base unit. The other, secondary data transmission units connected to this central data transmission unit are, for example, wired or equipped with lower-power wireless transmitters. These secondary data transmission units thus transmit and receive data to and from the first central data transmission unit.Accordingly, only the central first data transmission unit needs to be equipped with a more powerful transmission technology for transferring data to the central base unit. This frees up resources of the...

[0055] Data transmission system and energy consumption can be saved.

[0056] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the data transmission system comprises at least one further current collector system and at least one further current collector unit for current transmission between the rail system with conductor rail and another electrical consumer. The further current collector unit comprises another sliding contact carrier with another sliding contact unit, which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail. The further current collector system comprises a third data transmission unit, which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the further current collector system.The base unit is designed for direct or indirect bidirectional data exchange with the third data transmission unit, so that comprehensive status data of the further current collector system and / or control data for the further current collector system can be transferred between the base unit and the third data transmission unit.

[0057] The illustrated embodiment demonstrates that a multitude of current collector systems, with their corresponding data transmission units, can transmit signals to a central base unit. In other words, the central base unit can determine and monitor the status of a multitude of connected current collector systems and transmit corresponding control data to the connected current collector systems.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the data transmission unit and the third data transmission unit are configured to exchange data with each other, wherein (in particular exclusively) the (first) data transmission unit is configured to exchange data bidirectionally with the base unit in such a way that data from the third data transmission unit can be exchanged indirectly with the base unit via the data transmission unit.

[0059] With the described embodiment, a network can be implemented in a line topology, in which the individual data transmission units are arranged serially. In contrast to the star topology described above with regard to the current collector unit, in the present embodiment the first and third data transmission units can each collect the data of all current collector units arranged on a current collector system and then either send it (from the second data transmission unit) to the first data transmission unit or from the first data transmission unit to the central base unit.

[0060] Furthermore, in an advantageous embodiment, the first and third data transmission units of the current collector systems can check the signal quality to the central base unit. The data transmission unit with the best signal quality can then be selected as the master data transmission unit (i.e., the first data carrier unit), and the master data transmission unit performs the signal exchange with the central base unit. The other data transmission units, which have a lower signal quality to the central base unit, send and receive the corresponding signals to and from the master data transmission unit.

[0061] Furthermore, the first and third data transmission units can check the signal quality between any two data transmission units and, if the signal quality is poor, select a different data transmission unit as the transmission partner. Thus, similar to a mesh system, the data transmission units can establish a line topology and / or a star topology to ensure optimal and reliable signal transmission. This results in very low latency. Because the data transmission units themselves can select the best signal path, a kind of self-healing can occur. For example, if a data transmission unit fails, a signal path without the defective unit is identified, and further data exchange between the functioning data transmission units can continue.By using the described mesh technology, the internal network between the data transmission units is completely decentralized. This not only makes adding additional current collector systems very easy, but also means there is no single point of failure. In other words, if a data transmission unit of a current collector system fails, signal paths are automatically rerouted via the mesh network.

[0062] When using mesh technology, each data transmission unit can be defined as a node, acting as an access point with a direct connection to the internet or the central base unit. These nodes can change their role depending on the network requirements. The node with the best and most stable signal connection to the base unit becomes the first data transmission unit and sends the data to the base unit. This feature eliminates individual points of failure in the network and automatically resolves high-traffic situations that can occur in dense IoT networks.

[0063] According to an exemplary embodiment, the

[0064] The data transmission unit and the third data transmission unit are configured to exchange data directly with the base unit. With the described embodiment, a network in a star topology can be implemented, whereby each individual current collector system exchanges the corresponding data with the central base unit in parallel. Such a star topology has the advantage that, when one data transmission unit is selected, the other data transmission units can exchange further data with the central base unit.

[0065] It should be noted that the embodiments described here represent only a limited selection of possible embodiments of the invention. It is possible to combine the features of individual embodiments in a suitable manner, so that a multitude of different embodiments are considered to be obviously disclosed to the person skilled in the art with regard to the embodiments explicitly described here. In particular, some embodiments of the invention are described by apparatus claims and other embodiments by method claims. However, it will become immediately clear to the person skilled in the art upon reading this application that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, in addition to a combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, any combination of features belonging to different types of subject matter is also possible.

[0066] Brief description of the drawings

[0067] For further explanation and better understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a data transmission system with a current collector system on a rail system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a data transmission system in which second data transmission units are arranged on current collector units, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a data transmission system with a star topology according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a data transmission system with line topology according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a power board according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Detailed of example

[0073] Identical or similar components in different figures are identified by the same reference numbers. The representations in the figures are schematic.

[0074] Fig. 1 shows a data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems 120. The data transmission system comprises at least one current collector system 120, including at least one current collector unit 100 for current transmission between a rail system 150 with conductor rail 151 and an electrical consumer 160, wherein the current collector unit 100 has a sliding contact carrier 104 with a sliding contact unit 102, which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail 151, and wherein the current collector system 120 has a data transmission unit 107, which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system 120.The data transmission system also has a central base unit 108, which is designed for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit 107, so that comprehensive status data of the current collector system 120 and / or control data for the current collector system 120 and / or for the electrical consumer 160 can be transferred between the base unit 108 and the data transmission unit 107.

[0075] The current collector unit 100 is designed to travel along a rail system 150, which is arranged, for example, on the floor, along a side wall, or along the roof of a production hall. The current collector unit 100 is configured to draw electrical current from a conductor, such as a conductor rail 151 of a rail system 150, and supply the current to an electrical load 160, such as a motor of a vehicle or a production system in a production hall, a power supply unit in an electric vehicle, or a transport system in a production hall.

[0076] The current collector unit 100 has a base carrier 101 to which the sliding contact carrier 104 is attached. The base carrier 101 has a base support structure to which the components of the current collector unit 100 are attached. The mounting bracket 121 consists, for example, of a stable support or a mounting plate to which one or a plurality of current collector units 100 with their base carriers 101 can be arranged. The mounting bracket 121 is coupled to the rail system 150 in a force-transmitting manner. The mounting bracket 121 has, for example, rollers or wheels by means of which the mounting bracket 121 can move along the rail system 150. Furthermore, the mounting bracket 121 can, for example, have a corresponding (electric) drive motor which generates a drive force to drive the current collector system 120 along the rail system 150. In this respect, the drive motor can, in particular, drive the rollers described above.A clamping system or terminal box is arranged on the mounting bracket 121, which, for example, supports the electrical load 160. The electrical load 160, together with the mounting bracket 121, is thus arranged to be movable along the rail system 150. The mounting bracket 121 can also consist of several detachable units. For example, one unit of the mounting bracket 121 can support the current collector system 120 or the electronics box 130 and the current collector units 100, while another unit (e.g., designed as a mounting plate) supports the electrical load 160, the rollers, and the drive motor.

[0077] The sliding contact unit 102 forms a current collector head configured to establish and maintain a sliding electrical contact with a conductor, e.g., the conductor rail 151, in order to draw electrical current from the conductor rail 151. The sliding contact unit 102 can, for example, carry one or more sliding contacts 103. In particular, two current contact elements 103 are provided. These can be positioned on a pivoting rocker arm 112 to compensate for irregularities along the conductor rail 151 during operation. The rocker arm 112 is pre-tensioned with a rocker spring 113 to compensate for irregularities.

[0078] The current collector unit 100 has a clamping spring 111, which is arranged between the base support 101 and a tilting arm 106, the clamping spring 111 serving to press the sliding contact carrier 104 against the conductor rail 151. The clamping spring 111 is specifically arranged between the tilting arm 106 and a mounting foot 105 on the base support 101, to which the tilting arm 106 is pivotably attached. The clamping spring 111 generates the necessary clamping pressure of the sliding contact unit 102 against the conductor rail 151.

[0079] The sliding contact carrier 104 serves as a support structure for the sliding contact unit 102. In particular, the sliding contact carrier 104 is positioned between the base carrier 101 and the sliding line 151. The sensor system can be arranged on the sliding contact carrier 104.

[0080] Electrical connecting cables, in particular for each phase of the conductor rail 151, can be connected between the individual sliding contact units 102 and an electronics box 130. Accordingly, at least one electrical connecting cable can be arranged between a current output of the electronics box 130 and the electrical load 160. Furthermore, several current collector units 100 can be arranged on the mounting bracket 121 (as shown in Fig. 2), all of which can be electrically connected to a power unit 132 via the current input. Accordingly, the electronics box 130 can loop through, monitor, and / or partially divert the current for several current collector units 100.

[0081] The electronics box 130 serves to house and protect various electronic components, circuits, or subsystems, and in particular the power unit 132. The power unit 132 serves, on the one hand, to loop through the electrical current from the conductor rail 151 to the load 160, particularly through the electronics box 130. During this loop-through operation, the power unit 132 can, for example, include the further measuring device 125 described above, in order to monitor and measure current parameters in particular.

[0082] A connecting line 131 can be provided from the sliding contact carrier to the power supply of the electronics box 130. The connecting line 131 can, for example, connect one or more phases of the sliding line 151 to the power input of the electronics box 130. Similarly, a connecting line 161 can be connected to the power output of the electronics box 130 to supply the corresponding current to the load 160. The connecting lines 131 and 161 are specifically connected to a power board 126 of the electronics box 130.

[0083] The data transmission unit 107 includes, in particular, a transmitting and receiving device by means of which corresponding data can be transmitted to and received from the base unit 108. Furthermore, the data transmission unit 107 includes a data processing unit which processes the data for sending and receiving and selects the signal transmission path. For example, the data processing unit can select specific transmission protocols depending on the network mode described below and select a corresponding destination receiver, such as another second or third data transmission unit 202, 302 (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) or another base unit for transmitting the data.

[0084] The data transmission unit 107 is designed for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system 120.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively, the data transmission unit 107 can have a storage element and store the received or future transmitted data. At a predetermined time, the data can then be transmitted together to the base unit 108, or certain data, such as control commands, can be selectively transmitted to the functional units at a specific time.

[0086] The central base unit 108 receives data from one or more pantograph systems 120. The central base unit 108 can be placed locally near the pantograph system 120 and transmit or receive data to or from the pantograph systems 120 via a local network, for example a LAN (Local Area Network) based on WLAN radio technology, or via the DECT standard.

[0087] The current collector system 120 has a unique identification number, so that the received status data of the current collector system 120 and / or the transmitted control data for the current collector system 120 and / or for the electrical consumer 160 can be assigned to the current collector system 120 for the base unit 108. The current collector system 120 has a readable RFID unit 128 in which the unique identification number is stored.

[0088] For example, 150 RFID readout units 152 can be provided at certain positions along the rail system so that the RFID units 129 can be read when a pantograph system 120 passes. In particular, during the reading of an RFID unit 129, the pantograph system 120 can be identified using a unique identification number, and the corresponding status data can be obtained or corresponding control data transmitted simultaneously or shortly thereafter.

[0089] The data transmission system includes an RFID unit 128, which transmits status data (e.g., the identification number) to the central base unit 108 as it passes the base unit 108, which can then be configured as an RFID read unit 152. Furthermore, the current collector system 120 can have a data storage unit 109, which stores collected status data. As it passes the base station 108, the collected status data is transmitted from the data transmission unit 107 to the base unit 108. Additionally, control data can be transmitted to the current collector system 120 as it passes the base station 108. This control data can then be stored, for example, in the data storage unit 109 and activated at specific times.

[0090] The data transmission unit 107 is thus configured to transmit status data to the base station 108 (or the signal amplification unit 110 mentioned below) when passing it, and / or to transmit control data from the base station 108 to the data transmission unit 107.

[0091] The signal amplification unit 110 is designed for data transmission with the central base unit 108 and for data transmission with the data transmission unit 107, wherein the signal amplification unit 110 can be placed in a stationary position next to or on the rail system 150 in such a way that, when the current collector system passes the signal amplification unit, the status data can be transmitted from the data transmission unit 107 to the signal amplification unit 110 and / or that the control signals can be transmitted from the signal amplification unit 110 to the data transmission unit 107.

[0092] A measuring device 125 is provided as a functional unit configured to measure the current and / or voltage between the conductor rail 151 and the load 160. In particular, the measuring device 125 is configured to measure the power (i.e., the current, voltage, and / or electrical power), especially in an electrical phase of the conductor rail 151. The measuring device 125 may, for example, include a Hall sensor configured to measure power without contact. The Hall sensor may, for example, be arranged or integrated on a power board 126 or be arranged as a component in the electronics box 130. The measuring device 125 is configured, in particular, to determine active power, apparent power, and / or reactive power based on the measured current, voltage, and phase angle.

[0093] The measuring device 125 includes a Hall sensor 127, which is arranged on the power board 126. For example, one phase and another phase or the protective earth (PE) can be connected to the power board 126, allowing a high-impedance voltage tap to be made between the phase and PE. Each phase can be supplied by a separate current collector unit 100 of the current collector system 120. Due to the phase-accurate and high sampling rate of the Hall sensor 127, apparent power, active power, and reactive power can be precisely calculated and monitored accordingly. In addition, fault currents can be detected by evaluating the total current. In particular, the current from three phase currents, which are taken from the current collector unit 100 or from corresponding current collector units 100, from the phases of the conductor rail 151, can be connected to the power board 126 and thus coupled to the measuring device 125.When three phases of the conductor rail 151 are tapped, the Hall sensor 127 can measure the current drawn from the conductor rail 151 to the load 160, even without the protective earth (PE) phase. For example, it can be detected whether the sum of the three phase currents is zero, as a deviation from zero indicates a fault current.

[0094] Furthermore, a control unit 123 is provided as a functional unit, configured to control an electrical consumer unit of the current collector system 120 based on control data from the base unit (108). The control unit 123 is coupled to the data transmission unit 107 for transmitting the control data between the conductor rail 151 and an electrical consumer unit. Control data can be transmitted from the central base unit 108 to the control unit 123 via a data transmission unit 107, thus enabling the control of the electrical consumer unit of the current collector system. Control signals for other devices on the electrical consumer 160 can also be transmitted from the central base unit 108 to the electrical consumer 160 via a data transmission unit 107.

[0095] Furthermore, a position detection system 124 is provided as a functional unit for determining the position of the current collector system 120 along the conductor rail 151. Components of the position detection system can be arranged in the power board 126. Additionally, components of the current collector system 120 can form separate electronic components in the electronics box 130 or be arranged outside the electronics box 130, for example, by mounting them on the electronics box 130 or on the mounting bracket 121.

[0096] The position detection system 124 is coupled to the data transmission unit 107 to transmit the determined position of the current collector system 120 along the conductor rail 151. The position detection system 124 has position sensors with which the exact position of the current collector system 120 relative to the rail system 150 can be determined. Components of the position detection system 124 can be arranged in the power board 126. Furthermore, components of the current collector system 120 can form separate electronic components in the electronics box 130 or be arranged outside the electronics box 130, for example, by being mounted on the electronics box 130 or on the mounting bracket 121. Position data from a current collector system 120 can be transmitted via a data transmission unit 107 to the base unit 108, so that the exact position of a current collector system 120 can be determined, especially in real time.

[0097] Furthermore, an accelerometer 122 is provided as a functional unit for determining vibrations during movement of the pantograph system 120 along the rail system 150, wherein the accelerometer 122 is coupled to the data transmission unit 107 for transmitting data. The accelerometer 122 is configured to determine acceleration and deceleration of the pantograph system 120 relative to the rail system 150. The accelerometer 122 can be arranged in the electronics box 130.

[0098] Furthermore, several acceleration sensors 122 can be arranged on the current collector system 120. For example, one acceleration sensor 122 can be located in the electronics box 130 and another acceleration sensor 122 in the current collector unit 100. This allows vibrations to be detected on the entire current collector system 120, in particular vibrations between the current collector units 100 on the one hand and the electronics box 130 on the other. This allows the condition of the rail system 150, especially at the rail transitions, to be monitored in detail.

[0099] An environmental sensor 127 for determining the environment around the current collector system 120 is provided, wherein the environmental sensor 127 is coupled to the data transmission unit 107 for transmitting data indicative of the environment around the current collector system 120. In exemplary embodiments, the environmental sensor is a temperature sensor for determining the temperature in the vicinity of the current collector system 120 and / or a humidity sensor for determining the humidity in the vicinity of the current collector system 120. The environmental sensors 127 can also be arranged as an integrated component in the power board 126. The determination of environmental influences by means of the environmental sensor 127 in the current collector system 120 can also provide conclusions about the environment during the operation of the consumer 160, which is coupled to the current collector system 120.For example, quality parameters can be determined and documented during the operation of an electrical consumer 160.

[0100] The environmental sensor 127, for example, has a thermal imaging camera 132, which is configured to determine the temperature profile of the rail system 150. Accordingly, the temperature profile of the rail system 150 can be displayed in a heat map in order to draw conclusions about the condition of the rail system 150 and / or the conductor rail 151.

[0101] The functional unit of the current collector system 120 can further comprise a sensor system 129 configured to measure the position (i.e., a distance and / or a contact pressure) of the sliding contact unit 102 relative to the conductor rail 151, wherein the sensor system 129 is coupled to the data transmission unit 107 for transmitting data indicative of a position of the sliding contact unit 102 relative to the conductor rail 151. The sensor system 120 comprises one or more sensors of the same or different design. The sensors are configured to detect, measure, or monitor various physical quantities or conditions and provide corresponding output signals.

[0102] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a data transmission system 120, on which second data transmission units 202 are arranged on current collector units 201. The current collector system 120 has at least several, in the illustrated example five, current collector units 100 for current transmission between the rail system 150 with conductor rail 151 and the electrical consumer 160. The additional current collector units 100 are designed like the current collector unit 100 from Fig. 1. In particular, the current collector units 100 are arranged on the common mounting bracket 121. Each current collector unit 100 can draw current from a specific phase of the conductor rail 151.

[0103] Each current collector unit 100 can have a further, second data transmission unit 202, which is configured for direct or indirect bidirectional data exchange with the base unit 108 such that data from the current collector units 100 can be transferred directly or indirectly between the base unit 108 and the data transmission units 202 via the first data transmission unit 107. The (first) data transmission unit 107 and the second data transmission unit 202 can thus establish a data transmission path to the central base unit 108 in parallel. The second data transmission units 202 can, for example, each be arranged on an assigned current collector unit 100. In other words, each current collector unit 100 can have an assigned data transmission unit 202.

[0104] The data transmission unit 107 and the second data transmission unit 202 are configured to exchange data with each other, whereby only the data transmission unit 107 can be configured to exchange bidirectional data with the base unit 108 in such a way that data from the second data transmission unit 202 can be exchanged indirectly with the base unit 108 via the data transmission unit 107.

[0105] The current collector units 100 each have a unique identifier.

[0106] The identification number is stored so that the received data from the pantograph units 100 can be assigned to the pantograph units 100 for the base unit 108. The pantograph units 100, for example, have a readable RFID unit 201 in which the unique identification number of the pantograph units 100 is stored. For example, readout units can be provided at certain positions along the rail system 150 so that the RFID units 201 can be read when the pantograph units 100 pass by. In particular, during the reading of an RFID unit 201, the pantograph unit can be identified using the unique identification number, and simultaneously or shortly thereafter, the corresponding status data can be obtained or corresponding control data transmitted.

[0107] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a data transmission system with a star topology. The data transmission system comprises several current collector systems 120, 301, which can be configured according to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Each of the further current collector systems 301 has a third data transmission unit 302, which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the further current collector systems 301. In the embodiment with a star topology, the base unit 108 is configured for direct bidirectional data exchange with the first and third data transmission units 107, 301, so that data comprising status data of the further current collector systems 301 and / or control data for the further current collector systems 301 can be transmitted between the base unit 108 and the third data transmission unit 302.

[0108] Thus, the central base unit 108 can determine and monitor the status of a large number of connected current collector systems 120, 301 and transmit corresponding control data to the connected current collector systems 120, 301.

[0109] With the described star topology, each individual current collector system 120, 301 can exchange the corresponding data with the central base unit 108 in parallel to each other.

[0110] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a data transmission system with a line topology. The data transmission system has several current collector systems 120, 301, which are configured according to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The further current collector systems 301 each have third data transmission units 302, which are configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the further current collector systems 301.

[0111] The data transmission unit 107 and the third data transmission unit 302 are configured to exchange data with each other, whereby only one, in this example the (first) data transmission unit 107, is configured to exchange data bidirectionally with the base unit 108 in such a way that data from the third data transmission unit 302 can be exchanged indirectly with the base unit 108 via the data transmission unit 107.

[0112] Thus, a network can be implemented in a line topology, whereby the individual data transmission units 107, 302 are arranged serially in signaling mode. The first and third data transmission units 107, 302 can each collect the data from all current collector units 100 arranged on a current collector system 120, 301 and then either send it (from the second data transmission unit 202) to the data transmission units 107, 302 or from the first data transmission unit 107 to the central base unit 108.

[0113] The signal quality of the first and third data transmission units 107, 302 of the current collector systems 120, 301 to the central base unit 108 can be checked during operation. Subsequently, the data transmission unit 107 with the best signal quality to the base unit 108 can be selected as the master data transmission unit, with the master data transmission unit then handling the signal exchange with the central base unit 108. The other third data transmission units 302, which have a lower signal quality to the central base unit 108, send and receive the corresponding signals to and from the master data transmission unit 107. Furthermore, the first and third data transmission units 107, 302 can check the signal quality among themselves and, in the event of poor signal quality between two data transmission units 107, 302, select another data transmission unit 107, 302 as the transmission partner.Thus, in the manner of a so-called mesh system, the data transmission units can establish a line topology and / or a star topology within each other in order to provide optimal and secure signal transmission.

[0114] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a power board 126 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which can be arranged, for example, in an electronics box 130.

[0115] The connecting cables 131 of a phase of a current collector unit 100 can be connected to the power board 126 via corresponding current inputs on the electronics box, in particular detachably, for example via a plug connection. The components arranged on the power board 126 form corresponding microchips with which the power board 126 is populated. The power board 126 is a printed circuit board (PCB) configured to serve as a mounting platform for the various electronic components and associated electronic circuits. For example, sensor components such as the accelerometer 122, the control unit 123, the position detection system 124, the measuring device 125, the sensor system 129, or the environmental sensor 127 can be arranged on the power board 126. Furthermore, the RFID unit 128 can be integrated into the power board 126.In particular, the data transmission unit 107 can be arranged on the power board 126.

[0116] It should also be noted that "comprehensive" does not exclude any other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps from other embodiments described above. Reference numerals in the claims are not to be considered as limitations.

[0117]

[0118] Current collector unit 130 Electronic box Base carrier 131 Connecting cable Electronic box Sliding contact unit 132 Power unit Sliding contact Sliding contact carrier 150 Rail system Mounting foot 151 Conductor cable Tilting arm 152 RFID reading unit

[0119] Data transmission unit, central base unit 160, electrical consumer, data storage unit 161, connecting cable with consumer, signal amplifier unit, contact spring 201, RFID unit of the current collector unit

[0120] Rocker 202 second data transmission unit

[0121] rocker spring

[0122] 301 additional current collector system

[0123] Current collector system 302 third data transmission unit mounting bracket

[0124] Accelerometer control unit

[0125] Position detection system

[0126] Measuring device

[0127] Power board

[0128] environmental sensor

[0129] RFID unit

[0130] Sensor system

Claims

Patent claims 1. Data transmission system for transmitting data from current collector systems (120), the data transmission system comprising at least one current collector system (120) comprising at least one current collector unit (100) for current transmission between a rail system (150) with conductor rail (151) and an electrical consumer (160), wherein the current collector unit (100) comprises a sliding contact carrier (104) with a sliding contact unit (102) which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail (151), wherein the current collector system (120) comprises a data transmission unit (107) which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system (120) and / or the electrical consumer (160), and a central base unit (108) which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit (107).so that comprehensive status data of the current collector system (120) and / or the electrical consumer (160) and / or control data for the current collector system (120) and / or for the electrical consumer (160) can be transferred between the base unit (108) and the data transmission unit (107).

2. Data transmission system according to claim 1, wherein the base unit (108) forms a central control unit.

3. Data transmission system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the central base unit (108) is installed on the current collector system (120) and the central base unit (108) is configured to exchange data bidirectionally with other current collector systems.

4. Data transmission system according to claim 1, wherein the base unit (108) forms a central server computer, the server computer being connected to the data transmission unit (107) via a non-local network, in particular the Internet, for bidirectional data exchange.

5. Data transmission system according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the data transmission unit (107) and the base unit (108) are configured to exchange data using DECT Standard or DECT NR.+ Standard.

6. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the functional unit of the current collector system (120) comprises a measuring device (125) configured to measure the current and / or voltage between the conductor rail (151) and the consumer, wherein the measuring device (125) is coupled to the data transmission unit (107) to transmit the measured current power.

7. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the functional unit of the current collector system (120) comprises a control unit (123), wherein the control unit (123) is configured to control an electrical consumer unit of the current collector system (120) based on control data from the base unit (108), wherein the control unit (123) is coupled to the data transmission unit (107) to transmit the control data between the conductor rail (151) and the electrical consumer unit.

8. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the functional unit of the current collector system (120) comprises a position detection system (124) which is configured to determine a position of the current collector system (120) along the conductor rail (151), wherein the position detection system (124) is coupled to the data transmission unit (107) to transmit the determined position of the current collector system (120) along the conductor rail (151).

9. Data transmission system according to claim 8, wherein the position detection system (124) has an optical sensor for recording image data, wherein the position of the current collector system (120) along the conductor rail (151) can be determined by means of image analysis of the image data.

10. Data transmission system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the position detection system (124) has a magnetic sensor for measuring specific magnetic fields along the conductor rail (151), wherein the position of the current collector system (120) along the conductor rail (151) can be determined based on the measured specific magnetic field, wherein the specific magnetic field can be generated in particular by means of magnetic elements and / or magnetic tapes along the rail system (150).

11. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the functional unit of the current collector system (120) has an acceleration sensor (122) for determining vibrations during a movement of the current collector system (120) along the rail system (150), wherein the accelerometer (122) is coupled with the data transmission unit (107) to transmit data indicative of certain vibrations.

12. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the current collector system (120) has an environmental sensor for determining the environment around the current collector system (120), wherein the environmental sensor is coupled to the data transmission unit (107) for transmitting data indicatively for determining the environment around the current collector system (120), wherein the environmental sensor in particular has a temperature sensor for determining the temperature in the environment of the current collector system (120), a humidity sensor for determining the humidity in the environment of the current collector system (120), and / or a thermal imaging camera which is configured to determine a temperature profile of the rail system (150).

13. Data transmission system according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the functional unit of the current collector system (120) has a sensor system (129) configured to measure a position of the sliding contact unit (102) relative to the conductor rail (151), wherein the sensor system (129) is coupled to the data transmission unit (107) to transmit data indicative of a position of the sliding contact unit (102) relative to the conductor rail (151).

14. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the current collector system (120) has a unique identification number so that the received status data of the current collector system (120) and / or the transmitted control data for the current collector system (120) and / or for the electrical consumer (160) can be assigned to the current collector system (120) for the base unit (108).

15. Data transmission system according to claim 14, wherein the current collector system (120) has a readable RFID unit (128) in which the unique identification number is stored.

16. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the current collector unit (100) has a unique identification number so that the data received by the current collector unit (100) can be assigned to the base unit (108) of the current collector unit (100).

17. Data transmission system according to claim 16, wherein the current collector unit (100) has a readable RFID unit (201) in which the unique identification number of the current collector unit (100) is stored.

18. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the current collector system (120) has a data storage unit (109) which stores status data and / or control data, and wherein the data transmission unit (107) is configured to transmit the status data to the base station (108) when passing it, and / or to transmit the control data from the base station (108) to the data transmission unit (107).

19. Data transmission system according to one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising at least one signal amplification unit (110) which is configured for data transmission with the central base unit (108) and for data transmission with the data transmission unit (107), wherein the signal amplification unit (110) can be placed, in particular, in a stationary position next to or on the rail system (150) such that the When passing the signal amplification unit (110) of the current collector system (120), the status data can be transmitted from the data transmission unit (107) to the signal amplification unit (110) and / or the control signals can be transmitted from the signal amplification unit (110) to the data transmission unit (107).

20. Data transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the current collector system (120) comprises an electronics box (130) with a power unit (132), wherein the power unit (132) has a current input which is coupled to the sliding contact unit (102) of the current collector unit (100) for drawing current from the conductor rail (151), and a current output which can be coupled to the consumer (160), wherein the power unit (132) is configured to partially divert or loop through the current from the conductor rail (151) for the consumer (160).

21. Data transmission system according to claim 20, wherein the data transmission unit (107) has an antenna device which is arranged inside the electronics box (130) or protruding from the electronics box (130), in particular without protruding from it, wherein the data transmission unit (107) is in particular arranged on a power board (126) in the electronics box (130).

22. Data transmission system according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the current collector system (120) has a mounting bracket (121) on which the current collector unit (100) is arranged and on which the consumer (160) can be attached, wherein the mounting bracket (121) is movable and can be coupled to the rail system (150), wherein in particular the electronics box (130) is attached to the mounting bracket (121).

23. Data transmission system according to claim 22, wherein the current collector system (120) has at least one further current collector unit (100) for current transmission between the rail system (150) with conductor rail (151) and the electrical consumer (160), wherein the further current collector unit (100) has a further sliding contact carrier with a further sliding contact unit (102) which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail (151), wherein the further current collector unit (100) is coupled to the current input for drawing a current from the conductor rail (151).

24. Data transmission system according to claim 23, wherein the data transmission unit (107) is configured for bidirectional data exchange with the base unit (108) such that data from the current collector unit (100) and the further current collector unit (100) can be transferred between the base unit (108) and the data transmission unit (107).

25. Data transmission system according to claim 23, wherein the current collector system (120) includes a second data transmission unit (202) which is configured for direct or indirect bidirectional data exchange with the base unit (108) such that data of the further current collector unit (100) can be transferred directly or indirectly between the base unit (108) and the second data transmission unit (202).

26. Data transmission system according to claim 23, wherein the data transmission unit (107) and the second data transmission unit (202) are configured to exchange data with each other, wherein only the data transmission unit (107) is configured to exchange bidirectional data with the base unit (108) in such a way that data from the second data transmission unit (202) can be exchanged indirectly via the data transmission unit (107) with the base unit (108).

27. Data transmission system according to one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising at least one further current collector system (301) comprising at least one further current collector unit (100) for current transmission between the rail system (150) with conductor rail (151) and a further electrical consumer (160), wherein the further current collector unit (100) has a further sliding contact carrier with a further sliding contact unit (102) which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail (151), wherein the further current collector system (301) has a third data transmission unit (302) which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the further current collector system (301), wherein the base unit (108) is configured for direct or indirect bidirectional data exchange with the third data transmission unit (302),so that comprehensive status data of the further current collector system (301) and / or control data for the further current collector system (301) can be transferred between the base unit (108) and the third data transmission unit (302).

28. Data transmission system according to claim 27, wherein the data transmission unit (107) and the third data transmission unit (302) are configured to exchange data with each other, wherein only the data transmission unit (107) is designed to exchange data bidirectionally with the base unit (108) in such a way that data from the third data transmission unit (302) can be exchanged indirectly via the data transmission unit (107) with the base unit (108).

29. Data transmission system according to claim 27, wherein the data transmission unit (107) and the third data transmission unit (302) are configured to exchange data directly with the base unit (108).

30. Method for transmitting data from current collector systems, comprising the method Providing at least one current collector system (120) comprising at least one current collector unit (100) for current transmission between a rail system (150) with conductor rail (151) and an electrical consumer (160), wherein the current collector unit (100) comprises a sliding contact carrier (104) with a sliding contact unit (102) which can be coupled to form a sliding contact with the conductor rail (151), wherein the current collector system (120) comprises a data transmission unit (107) which is configured for bidirectional data exchange with functional units of the current collector system (120) and / or the electrical consumer (160), Providing a central base unit (108) which is designed for bidirectional data exchange with the data transmission unit (107), Transmission of data including status data of the current collector system (120) and / or the electrical consumer (160) and / or control data for the current collector system (120) and / or for the electrical consumer (160) between the base unit (108) and the data transmission unit (107).

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