Non-contact Height Sensor for Air Springs Using Infrared Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air spring height measurement systems face challenges in noisy and vibrating environments, are sensitive to air pressure changes, and require multiple electrical connections, which can be prone to damage and interference.
Innovation Solution
An air spring system with a distance sensor using electromagnetic waves, specifically infrared light, for non-contact, maintenance-free height measurement, employing a magnetic signal transmitting unit and an electromagnetic wave-to-electric power converter, which operates within a range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers, and utilizes wireless energy transfer to eliminate the need for additional electrical connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasonic proximity sensors are used for height measurement, then distance measurement capability is achieved, but sensitivity to noise and vibration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ultrasonic (acoustic) sensing with optical sensing using infrared LEDs and photodetectors. This substitution eliminates sensitivity to acoustic noise and vibration by using light-based time-of-flight measurement instead of sound-based measurement, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and environmental sensitivity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple electrical connections are used for sensor operation, then power and signal transmission are achieved, but susceptibility to damage and interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and data communication into a single electrical connection between the control unit and sensor. The control unit transmits both power and modulated signal data through one cable, eliminating multiple connectors and reducing points of failure while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single electrical connection serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical power to the sensor components and carries bidirectional data communication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of connections needed while maintaining system reliability and capability.
3Reliability
If contactless electromagnetic measurement is used, then resistance to environmental interference is improved, but energy transmission efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic modulation of infrared LEDs at specific frequencies to transmit energy and signals. This periodic action enables efficient wireless power and data transmission through air while maintaining contactless operation, resolving the contradiction between environmental resistance and energy efficiency.
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 system provides accurate height measurements that are not sensitive to noise, air pressure, or magnetic interference, with an extended measurement range and reduced maintenance needs, using infrared light for efficient energy transfer and self-cleaning capabilities, ensuring reliable operation in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
employing a magnetic signal transmitting unit and an electromagnetic wave-to-electric power converter, which operates within a range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers, and utilizes wireless energy transfer
Implementation Method 2
the electromagnetic wave receiving unit receives electromagnetic waves transmitted from the electromagnetic wave transmitting unit to operate the magnetic signal transmitting unit
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention reveals a distance sensor comprising: a signal receiving unit, an electromagnetic wave transmitting unit, and a magnetic signal transmitting unit; wherein the signal transmitting unit is adapted to transmit to the signal receiving unit a sensed distance between the signal receiving unit and the magnetic signal transmitting unit, wherein the magnetic signal transmitting unit further comprises an electromagnetic wave receiving unit and an electromagnetic wave-to-electric power converter, and wherein the electromagnetic wave receiving unit receives electromagnetic waves transmitted from the electromagnetic wave transmitting unit to operate the magnetic signal transmitting unit.