Optical Interface Connection Module for Bluetooth Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automation technology, especially in Industry 4.0, there is a need for a simple and secure way to configure and diagnose IO-Link devices with Bluetooth connectivity, which is challenging due to metal housings not allowing built-in antennas, complex Bluetooth integration, and security concerns, requiring a solution that is easy to install and cost-effective, while maintaining IP67 standards.
Innovation Solution
A connection module with a two-part housing designed as a standard plug connector, featuring a transparent first housing part with an integrated antenna and optical interface for activating and deactivating the radio transmitter/receiver, using a light sensor and LED connected directly to the Bluetooth chip for manual control and visual indication, allowing secure local configuration and diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal housing is used for IO-Link devices, then environmental and safety standards (IP67) are met, but antenna integration becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two housing parts: a metal housing part for protection and a plastic housing part for antenna integration. This segmentation allows each material to fulfill its optimal function - metal provides IP67 protection while plastic enables radio wave transmission for Bluetooth connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the housing have different material properties - the metal housing part provides environmental protection while the plastic housing part provides radio wave transparency. This local differentiation of material quality resolves the contradiction between protection and antenna functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Bluetooth is integrated at module level with external antenna, then wireless connectivity is achieved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Bluetooth module, antenna, and housing are merged into a single integrated component that is installed as one unit. The plug-in connection integrates the Bluetooth module electrically and mechanically, while the housing provides both protection and antenna function, eliminating separate installation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical protection, antenna support, and radio wave transmission. The plug-in connection provides both electrical connection and mechanical mounting. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies installation.
3Ease of manufacture
If Bluetooth is integrated at chip level, then cost is reduced, but radio certification becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing acts as an intermediary that provides a controlled environment for the Bluetooth chip and antenna. It serves as a reference plane for RF performance and provides shielding, making certification easier by establishing predictable electromagnetic conditions.
4Ease of operation
If a permanent Bluetooth connection is implemented, then wireless access is continuous, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The Bluetooth connection transitions from a static permanent state to a dynamic on-demand state. The connection is activated only when needed through optical triggering and deactivated when not in use, allowing the system to adapt its connectivity state based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical interface provides visual feedback about the Bluetooth connection state and allows user-controlled activation. This feedback mechanism enables secure manual control, where the user can see when Bluetooth is active and intentionally activate/deactivate it based on security considerations.
5Ease of manufacture
If a standard plug connector design is used, then ease of installation is improved, but integration of optical interface and antenna becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The Bluetooth module, antenna, and optical interface are nested within the plug connector housing. The plastic housing part contains all these components while maintaining the external dimensions and mounting features of a standard plug connector, allowing easy installation despite complex internal integration.
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 universal use as a wireless interface, simplifying the activation and deactivation of Bluetooth connectivity, meeting environmental and safety standards, and allowing for large-scale production of IP67 IO-Link devices with intelligent sensors and actuators, while being cost-effective and easy to install.
Implementation Method 1
an optical interface O for activating and deactivating the radio transmitter/receiver F, using a light sensor and LED
Implementation Method 2
an optical interface O for activating and deactivating the radio transmitter/receiver F, using a light sensor and LED
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
1. Connection module with optical interface for activating a radio transmitter/receiver, and the method and manufacturing process for this purpose. 2.1 Various interfaces/devices have long been known in the prior art, each designed for a specific application. 2.2 To design a connection module as a standard component that meets increased environmental requirements and enables secure local interface activation, configuration, and diagnostics of a device using a radio-based connection, the connection module has a two-part housing (G) and is designed in the form of a standard connector (AM). The first housing part (G1), which protrudes from the device housing (GG) after installation in the device, is transparent.An antenna (A) of the radio transmitter/receiver (F) and an optical interface (O) for activating and deactivating the radio transmitter/receiver (F) are arranged on a carrier or a printed circuit board (L) extending into the first housing part (G1). 2.3 The invention lies in the field of interfaces for electrical devices.