Low Energy Current Loop Circuit for Hazardous Data Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data communication circuits for high-speed data transmission in hazardous environments require unsafe high energy levels, posing risks in explosive atmospheres, and struggle to maintain signal integrity over long distances without crosstalk interference.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional, low-energy current loop data communication circuit using an active DC power source switched between two positive low current levels, with optical isolation and a voltage comparator to detect signal differences, allowing for high-speed data transmission up to 1000 feet in hazardous environments without crosstalk, using copper wire cables and optically isolated devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional high-speed data communication circuits are used, then data transmission speed is improved, but energy consumption increases to unsafe levels for hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy parameters by using switched capacitor circuits that operate at low voltage levels (e.g., 0-5V or 0-12V) with carefully controlled current levels. The capacitor switching mechanism allows high-speed operation through rapid charge/discharge cycles while maintaining energy consumption within safe limits for hazardous environments through proper component selection and circuit design.
2Length of stationary object
If transmission distance is increased to 1000 feet, then communication range is improved, but signal integrity deteriorates due to cable resistance and interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces differential signaling as an intermediary mechanism that transmits signals as voltage differences between two conductors rather than single-ended signals. This differential approach rejects common-mode noise and interference, maintaining signal integrity over long distances. The balanced transmission line structure acts as a mediator that equalizes signal propagation characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs balanced differential signaling where both conductors are driven symmetrically with equal and opposite signals. This creates equipotential conditions that minimize electromagnetic radiation and improve noise immunity. The receiver detects the potential difference between the two lines, which remains stable even when individual line voltages are affected by cable resistance or external interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication circuits are placed in a single cable, then cable utilization is improved, but crosstalk interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses balanced differential pairs where each communication circuit consists of two conductors carrying equal and opposite signals. This symmetry creates equipotential conditions that minimize electromagnetic coupling between adjacent pairs in the same cable, reducing crosstalk. The differential signaling approach ensures that noise and interference affect both conductors equally and are rejected at the differential receiver.
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 safe, high-speed data transmission across long distances in hazardous environments while minimizing energy usage and preventing crosstalk, maintaining signal integrity and reducing the risk of ignition, with the ability to handle multiple communication circuits within a single cable.
Implementation Method 1
The receiver circuit is further comprised of an optical coupler for isolating the transmission circuit placed in a hazardous environment from the receiver circuit
Implementation Method 2
The optical coupler is preferably comprised of an optically isolated photodiode
Implementation Method 3
a transistor coupled to the optically isolated photodiode
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a data communication circuit and system for use in hazardous or nonhazardous environments. In the preferred embodiment, the system is a bi-directional, low energy, current loop data communication circuit primarily for high speed data communications via parallel or twisted pair conductors. The system of the present invention can safely transmit data across long distances (e.g., up to 1000 feet (300 meters)) in an explosive atmosphere.