Optical Power Gate for Remote Sensor Battery Conservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility workers face challenges in maintaining sensor functionality and battery life in insulated utility platforms, as operators may forget to turn on or off sensor readers, leading to inefficient battery usage and potential structural damage from load monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A remote sensor control system comprising a control module outside the insulated environment and a remote module within it, using an energy beam to activate an optical power gate and sensor reader, allowing periodic sampling and monitoring while maintaining electrical isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensor reader is left on continuously, then the sensor reading functionality is ensured, but the battery drains excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic activation of the sensor reader through an optical power gate that receives energy beams at intervals. The control module sends energy beams periodically to activate the optical power gate, which in turn activates the sensor reader only when needed, rather than keeping it continuously on. This periodic action ensures sensor functionality while minimizing battery consumption during idle periods.
2Loss of energy
If the sensor reader is turned off to conserve battery, then battery life is extended, but the operator may forget to turn it on or off
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for operator intervention by implementing automatic control through the optical power gate mechanism. The control module autonomously sends energy beams to activate the sensor reader based on predetermined intervals or conditions, and the optical power gate automatically activates and deactivates power to the sensor reader without requiring manual switching. This self-service approach ensures both battery conservation and operational reliability.
3Power
If conventional wiring is used to power the sensor reader, then power transmission is reliable, but the insulated environment prevents electricity transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces conventional electrical wiring with an optical energy transmission system. Instead of using electrical conductors that would compromise the insulated environment, the control module transmits energy through optical beams (light) that can pass through or across the insulated barrier. The optical power gate converts this optical energy into electrical power to activate the sensor reader, thereby maintaining electrical isolation while enabling reliable power transmission.
4Loss of energy
If the sensor reader is activated periodically, then battery drain is minimized, but the sensor may not be monitored at critical moments
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control module receives sensor readings and can adjust the activation schedule accordingly. When critical conditions are detected or high-risk situations arise, the control module increases the frequency of energy beam transmission to ensure continuous monitoring. During normal conditions, the system reduces activation frequency to conserve battery. This feedback-driven adaptive monitoring ensures critical events are captured while minimizing overall energy consumption.
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
Minimizes battery drain, ensures continuous sensor functionality, and intelligently requests readings, reducing the risk of structural damage by monitoring loads on the utility platform without compromising electrical isolation.
Implementation Method 1
The control module includes an energy source configured to produce an energy beam
Implementation Method 2
an optical power gate configured to provide power from the battery to the sensor reader upon receiving said energy beam from the energy source
Data Source
AI summary
A remote sensor control system provides a sensor reading from an insulated environment at a certain interval dependent upon the threat level. The remote sensor control system has a control module and a remote module. The control module is disposed outside the insulated environment. The control module includes an energy source configured to produce an energy beam. The remote module is disposed at least partially within the insulated environment. The remote module is configured to receive the energy beam from the energy source. The remote module includes a battery, a sensor reader configured to sample a sensor, and an optical power gate configured to provide power from the battery to the sensor reader upon receiving said energy beam from the energy source.