Bearing Sensor Module Using Metal Ring as RF Passive Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor modules in rolling bearing units do not effectively utilize metal members as radiating elements for data transmission, limiting the ability to obtain detection data outside the bearing apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module design that incorporates a metal member with a ring-shaped side surface and a recess, filled with resin, which houses a radiating part and a radio communication device. The metal member functions as a passive element, insulated from the radiating part by the resin, allowing it to be used for radio wave emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RF tag is disposed at a position separated from metal members, then the communication state for the RF tag is excellent, but the metal member cannot be utilized as a radiating element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces resin as an intermediary material between the RF tag and metal member. The resin fills the recess in the metal member and provides electrical insulation, allowing the RF tag to be positioned close to the metal member without direct contact. This mediator enables the metal member to function as a radiating element while maintaining proper RF tag operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the RF tag is disposed within the recess of the metal member. The resin fills the recess and encapsulates the RF tag, creating a nested arrangement where smaller components are housed within larger structures. This allows efficient use of space and enables the metal member to serve as both structural component and radiating element.
2Reliability
If the RF tag and velocity sensor are attached to an end cap made of resin, then the communication state is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the metal member structure. The metal member with its recess serves both as the mounting structure for the RF tag and sensor, and as the radiating element for radio wave emission. The resin simultaneously provides insulation, structural support, and sealing. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal member is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as the structural housing with the recess, provides electrical insulation through the resin filling, and acts as the radiating element for radio wave emission. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate end cap and radiating element components, reducing device complexity.
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 the effective use of metal members as radiating elements, achieving excellent radiative characteristics with low reflection and uniform directivity, thereby allowing detection data to be transmitted efficiently outside the sensor module.
Implementation Method 1
a radiating part provided in the resin part and configured to emit radio waves
Implementation Method 2
the metal member is insulated from the radiating part by the resin part, and functions as a passive element
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor module includes a metal member having a side surface extending in a ring shape, and a recess recessed from the side surface and extending in a ring shape along the side surface, a resin part filling an inside of the recess, a radiating part provided in the resin part and configured to emit radio waves, a radio communication device provided in the resin part and electrically connected to the radiating part, and a sensor electrically connected to the radio communication device. The metal member is insulated from the radiating part by the resin part, and functions as a passive element.