Wireless Communication System for Marine Propulsors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems struggle to reliably transmit high-quality data signals through metal obstructions and liquids, such as those found in marine azimuth thrusters, due to signal attenuation and the need for bulky and expensive slip rings.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system employing diversity schemes to mitigate multipath distortion, using directional antennas and a thermoelectric generator for low-power operation, which reduces transmission power and eliminates the need for slip rings by providing a robust and efficient data link through spatial and frequency diversity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless communication systems use conventional transmission methods through metal walls and liquids, then signal propagation is achieved, but signal quality deteriorates due to attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an acoustic waveguide as an intermediary medium to couple the electromagnetic transmitter and receiver, allowing signals to propagate through the liquid-filled thruster environment with reduced attenuation. The acoustic waveguide acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between electromagnetic transmission and the liquid-filled environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs diversity schemes that dynamically change transmission parameters including frequency, power level, and modulation scheme based on detected signal quality and environmental conditions. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes signal propagation through the attenuating medium while maintaining data quality.
2Reliability
If slip rings are used to provide power and data paths in rotating thrusters, then power and data transmission are achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the slip ring component from the system by replacing it with a wireless communication system. The transmitter and receiver are mounted on opposite sides of the rotating assembly, allowing wireless transmission of power and data without mechanical contact, thereby removing the complexity and maintenance requirements of slip rings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical slip ring system with an electromagnetic wireless communication system. Instead of using mechanical contacts to transfer power and data across the rotating interface, the system uses electromagnetic waves transmitted through the liquid medium, substituting mechanical transmission with field-based transmission.
3Reliability
If transmission power is increased to maintain signal quality through obstructions, then data signal strength is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic transmission system that continuously adjusts power levels based on real-time signal quality detection and environmental conditions. The system transitions between different power states and modulation schemes to maintain optimal signal strength while minimizing energy consumption, rather than operating at fixed high power levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the receiver detects signal quality and transmits this information back to the transmitter, which then adjusts its output power and modulation parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures signal quality is maintained while avoiding unnecessary power consumption during favorable transmission conditions.
4Reliability
If wireless communication operates in liquid-filled environments with metal obstructions, then data transmission is achieved, but multipath distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs diversity schemes that change transmission parameters including frequency, time, and spatial distribution of signals. By transmitting the same data through multiple paths with different parameters, the system can reconstruct the original signal at the receiver, mitigating the effects of multipath distortion caused by reflections off metal surfaces and propagation through liquid.
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 maintains high-quality data signal strength and quality while minimizing power consumption, ensuring reliable operation for extended periods without servicing, and is adaptable to various marine propulsor configurations and environments.
Implementation Method 1
A power source, such as a thermoelectric generator, may be used to power the wireless communication system
Implementation Method 2
a wireless communication system which could convey high-quality data signals through the internal structure of the thruster (and liquids therein)
Implementation Method 3
Diversity schemes may be employed to mitigate the effects of multipath distortion of the EM data signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A marine propulsor comprises: a stationary part and a movable part which is movable relative to the stationary part; and a wireless communication system, comprising at least one transmitter which is disposed in the movable part and is configured to transmit an electromagnetic data signal and at least one receiver which is disposed in the stationary part and is configured to receive the electromagnetic data signal. The wireless communication system includes a diversity scheme for mitigating multipath distortion of the electromagnetic data signal between the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver.