Optical Coupling for Galvanic Isolation in Modular Measuring Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring devices with two output units face increased complexity and cost due to wired connections, which require significant space and production effort, and lack efficient methods for synchronous operation and fault detection.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device with modular output units featuring optical and electrical interfaces for signal communication, allowing for galvanic isolation and synchronous control, along with a method for comparing signals to detect faults and generate warning signals, thereby reducing production complexity and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections are used to connect output units, then communication between output units is established, but space requirements and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wired connections with wireless communication technology. The measuring instrument uses wireless transmission to communicate measured values between output units, eliminating the need for physical cables, connectors, and jumper wires. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining communication reliability while eliminating wiring complexity and space requirements.
2Reliability
If wired connections are used to connect output units, then communication between output units is established, but manufacturing effort and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical wired connections with wireless communication, the patent eliminates the need for manual cable installation, connector assembly, and jumper wire configuration during manufacturing. This significantly reduces assembly time, labor requirements, and production complexity, directly addressing the ease of manufacture parameter while maintaining reliable communication.
3Manufacturing precision
If synchronous operation is implemented through operating circuit control, then timing control of output units is achieved, but communication demands between operating circuit and output units increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the communication functions by enabling direct wireless communication between output units for synchronization purposes. Instead of requiring separate communication channels between the operating circuit and each output unit, the output units can exchange timing and synchronization information directly through wireless links, reducing the overall communication infrastructure complexity while maintaining precise timing control.
4Ease of repair
If modular output units are used, then device flexibility and ease of repair are improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies wireless communication to modular output units, eliminating the need for physical connection interfaces between modules. Each modular unit can independently communicate with others wirelessly, maintaining ease of repair and replacement while eliminating connection complexity. Modules can be added, removed, or replaced without dealing with cable connections, connectors, or wiring configurations.
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 solution enables a simple, robust, and cost-effective measuring device with reduced production effort, ensuring synchronous operation and efficient fault detection, while preventing electronic interference and damage from ground potential differences.
Implementation Method 1
the first output unit is configured to receive the first signal via the second communication interface and to convert it into a fourth electrical signal and into a second optical signal, the fourth signal being output via the electrical output and the second signal via the optical output; and at least one second output unit comprising at least one optical input and one electrical output; wherein the optical input of the second output unit is coupled to the optical output of the first output unit
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring apparatus comprising at least two output units for outputting measurement values, the output units being optically coupled. The optical coupling causes a reduction of the production effort as well as a galvanic separation of the output units from each other, see figure 1.