Inductive Probe Powering Non-Volatile Memory Without Main Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in reading and writing data from non-volatile memory of a first device without a dedicated power supply, particularly in scenarios where the main power source is inoperative, such as during electricity meter readings or updates, requiring reliable and sustainable energy sources like batteries or supercapacitors that need regular maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first device with a main power source and a substitute power source, along with optical transceivers and windings, enables data access and transfer via induction phenomenon, allowing a second device to provide alternate power through a probe, facilitating data reading and writing without the need for a dedicated power supply, while maintaining compatibility with standards like IEC 62056-21.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery or supercapacitor is used as a substitute power source in the first device, then the device can operate without main power, but the device requires regular maintenance and has limited lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the substitute power source (battery or supercapacitor) from the first device entirely. Instead, the second device provides power wirelessly through the probe using electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for maintenance of energy storage components in the first device while maintaining operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe acts as an intermediary that transfers both power and data between the second device and the first device. The probe enables wireless power transfer via electromagnetic induction and optical communication, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for direct electrical connection or onboard power storage in the first device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a probe with both power supply and optical communication capabilities is used, then data can be transferred without dedicated power supply, but the probe structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines power transfer and data communication functions into a single probe structure. The probe integrates a coil for electromagnetic induction power transfer and an optical transceiver for data communication, allowing both functions to be performed through one device interface rather than requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is designed as a universal interface that can simultaneously perform multiple functions: wireless power transfer via electromagnetic induction, optical data communication, and potential additional sensing or control functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices or connections.
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 seamless data access and transfer from non-volatile memory of devices like electricity meters and data concentrators without the need for dedicated power sources, reducing maintenance burdens and ensuring continuous operation even without a main power source, by utilizing induction-based power transfer and optical communication.
Implementation Method 1
each probe comprises a second winding, such that the second device to which said probe is connected provides said first device with the substitution electrical power source by induction phenomenon when said first and second windings are placed facing each other
Implementation Method 2
a first optical transceiver configured to perform optical communications with a second optical transceiver of a said probe, when said first and second optical transceivers are placed facing each other
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
To enable a second device (200) to access a non-volatile memory (104) of a first device (100) when the first device may be in a situation where a main power supply (121) of the first device is inoperative, it is proposed to equip a probe (300) connected to the second device and through which the second device makes optical communications with the first device with a coil (256) and to also equip the first device with a coil (109), so that the second device is able to provide a substitute power supply (220, 122) to the first device by induction phenomenon via said probe.