Alternating Optical Signal Transceiver for Rotating Machine Tool Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transceiving devices in machine tools fail to distinguish between a null signal from a properly operating rotor and a malfunctioning rotor, due to the absence of information content in the continuous component of optical analog signals, leading to inaccuracies in signal processing and potential machine damage.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for transceiving alternating optical signals that includes a primary and secondary part electrically isolated from each other, with a secondary emitter transmitting an alternating optical signal and a primary receiver generating an analog electrical signal, featuring a signal detector that extracts an AC component with substantially zero average, allowing for the discrimination of useful information from the signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a continuous component is removed in the stator during optical analog communication, then signal processing is simplified, but the ability to recognize whether a null signal is caused by proper operation or malfunction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using an alternating optical signal with zero average value instead of a continuous component. The secondary emitter transmits alternating optical signals that periodically switch between positive and negative phases, allowing the primary receiver to detect both the presence and status of the rotating part through the periodic signal pattern, thereby maintaining diagnostic capability while simplifying signal processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the signal parameter from a continuous DC component to an AC component with zero average value. This parameter change allows the system to transmit information about the rotating part's operational status through the presence, absence, or characteristics of the alternating signal, enabling distinction between proper operation and malfunction without requiring complex continuous signal processing
2Measurement precision
If analog optical signal transmission is used for refined signal processing, then signal-to-noise ratio and amplification capability are improved, but the ability to verify proper operation of the rotating part is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the alternating optical signal as both the transmission medium and the verification mechanism. The primary receiver detects the alternating signal from the rotating part and uses this detected signal as feedback to verify proper operation. The signal's presence, amplitude, and characteristics provide continuous feedback about the rotating part's status, enabling both refined signal processing and reliable operational verification
Solution Approach 2:
The alternating optical signal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the analog carrier for refined signal transmission with improved signal-to-noise ratio, and it also serves as the verification signal to confirm proper operation of the rotating part. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate verification mechanisms while maintaining measurement precision
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables reliable and accurate transmission of checking signals, allowing the processing and control unit to verify the presence and proper operation of the rotating part, thereby preventing machine damage and improving machining accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary emitter, comprised within the second part and facing the first part, adapted to transmit an alternating optical signal
Implementation Method 2
a primary receiver, comprised within the first part and facing the second part, adapted to receive the alternating optical signal and generate a corresponding analog electrical signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (7) for transceiving alternating optical signals, comprises a primary receiver (14) adapted to receiving an alternating optical signal and generate a corresponding analog electrical signal, a signal detector (105), connected to the primary receiver and adapted to extract from said analog electrical signal an AC component with substantially zero average, and a bias detector (106), also connected to the primary receiver and adapted to extract from said analog electrical signal a continuous component indicative of the validity of the AC component. A method for transceiving alternating optical signals, that uses such device, comprises the steps of receiving the alternating optical signal and generate the corresponding analog electrical signal, extract from the analog electrical signal an AC component with substantially zero average, extract from the analog electrical signal a continuous component, and process the AC component and continuous component to verify, depending on the continuous component, whether the AC component contains useful information. Device and method are advantageously employed in transceiving checking signals of sensors comprised in a rotating part of a machine tool.