Magnetic Wireless Communication Unit for Cable-Free Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IoT solutions for underground systems face challenges with poor internet connectivity due to the difficulty in installing range extender cells that require external power, data cables, and antennas, and existing wireless repeaters are cumbersome to mount.
Innovation Solution
A wireless data communication unit with integrated permanent magnets that can be magnetically attached to a surface using electromagnets, allowing easy positioning and detachment, and powered by an energy harvester, eliminating the need for external connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If range extender cells are installed to improve wireless connectivity, then network coverage is improved, but installation complexity increases due to requirements for external power, data cables, and antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (power supply, data communication, antenna, and magnetic mounting) into a single integrated wireless unit. The unit includes a battery for power, a communication module for data, an antenna for wireless signal, and permanent magnets for mounting, eliminating the need for separate external connections and simplifying installation to just magnetic attachment to the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless unit is designed to be self-contained and self-service capable, with integrated power (battery), communication (communication module), and mounting (permanent magnets) functions. The unit can be independently installed on magnetizable surfaces without requiring external infrastructure, making the system self-sufficient and easy to deploy.
2Ease of operation
If permanent magnets are used to enable easy mounting of the wireless unit, then ease of installation is improved, but the unit cannot be repositioned once mounted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electromagnets that can dynamically change the magnetic state of the permanent magnets. During installation, electromagnets are activated to temporarily neutralize the permanent magnets' holding force, allowing the unit to be freely positioned. Once positioned, the electromagnets are deactivated, allowing the permanent magnets to firmly attach the unit to the surface. This dynamic control enables both easy installation and repositioning capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnets are integrated into the unit to enable passivation of permanent magnets, then repositionability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnets are integrated with the permanent magnets and mounting structure as a unified magnetic assembly. The control system is merged with the existing power and communication modules, sharing the battery and control electronics. This integration minimizes additional complexity while enabling the passivation function for easy repositioning.
4Ease of operation
If wireless communication units are made self-contained without external connections, then ease of installation is improved, but energy supply becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless unit incorporates an integrated battery as its own power source, making it self-service capable. The battery provides autonomous energy supply without requiring external power connections, enabling the unit to operate independently once installed on a magnetizable surface. This self-contained power system maintains ease of installation while providing sufficient energy for wireless communication operations.
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
Facilitates easy installation and repositioning of wireless communication units on magnetizable surfaces, enhancing connectivity without requiring external power or cables, and enabling efficient energy harvesting.
Implementation Method 1
one or more permanent magnets arranged in a manner that enables the unit to be mounted on a magnetizable surface by the one or more permanent magnets
Implementation Method 2
one or more electromagnets arranged and configured to passivate the one or more permanent magnets when the unit is being mounted on the magnetizable surface
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless data communication unit is provided including a communication module configured to communicate wirelessly, one or more permanent magnets arranged in a manner that enables the unit to be mounted on a magnetizable surface by the one or more permanent magnets is provided. The unit is a self-contained unit formed as a closed housing that is not connected to external power, communication or antenna using cables or wires, wherein the one or more permanent magnets protrude from the housing to such an extent that the one or more permanent magnets can be passivated by of one or more electromagnets arranged and configured to passivate the one or more permanent magnets when the unit is mounted on the magnetizable surface.