Contactless Coupler With U-Shaped Transmission Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current signal transmission methods for high data rates in medical imaging and similar applications require bulky, heavy connectors and cables, which are inconvenient and prone to mechanical tolerance issues, leading to unreliable data transmission due to frequent handling and movement of devices.
Innovation Solution
A contactless coupler design using U-shaped or meander-shaped transmission elements that enable directional coupling between two elements, eliminating the need for physical contact and reducing the complexity of alignment, thus enhancing robustness and compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors and cables are used for high data rate transmission, then reliable signal transmission can be achieved, but the device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connectors and cables with a contactless coupling system using electromagnetic fields. The first and second coupling elements create a magnetic field coupling that transmits signals without physical contact, eliminating the weight and bulk of traditional connectors while maintaining signal transmission reliability through directional coupling between the elements
2Reliability
If traditional connectors with multiple contacts are used, then high data rate transmission is possible, but the connectors become difficult to clean and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The invention eliminates mechanical contact points by using electromagnetic coupling between the first and second transmission elements. This contactless design removes the need for cleaning and maintenance of multiple contacts while preserving high data rate transmission through the magnetic field coupling mechanism
3Ease of operation
If frequent handling and movement of devices occur, then operational flexibility is improved, but mechanical tolerance issues lead to unreliable transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to maintain reliable signal transmission during device movement and handling. The directional coupling between the first and second transmission elements creates a robust electromagnetic connection that accommodates operational flexibility while preserving transmission reliability through the dynamic nature of the field-based coupling
4Reliability
If contactless coupling is implemented, then mechanical robustness and compactness are improved, but alignment precision becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission elements are designed with U-shaped or meander-shaped geometries that enhance the directional coupling between the first and second coupling elements. These curved paths create multiple interaction points for the electromagnetic fields, making the coupling more tolerant to alignment variations while maintaining mechanical robustness and compact form factor
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
The contactless coupler achieves reliable high-data-rate signal transmission with improved mechanical robustness and reduced space requirements, simplifying alignment and extending the coupler's lifespan by allowing separate attachment and replacement of elements.
Implementation Method 1
the first transmission element is configured, in operation, to transmit a signal supplied at the first signal contact to the second transmission element by way of directional coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler includes a first and second coupler element, with a respective first and second transmission element. In an embodiment, a first signal contact for connection to a signal conductor is arranged on a first end of the first transmission element; a second signal contact for connection to a signal conductor is arranged on a first end of the second transmission element; the first transmission element forms a plurality of first U-shaped curves between the first end and a second end; and the second transmission element forms a plurality of second U-shaped curves between the first end and a second end. The first transmission element is configured, in operation, to transmit a signal supplied at the first signal contact to the second transmission element via directional coupling and the second transmission element is configured, in operation, to receive and output the signal via the second signal contact.