Optical Data System for Torque Sensor Wireless Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for transferring torque measurement data from rotatable shafts to stationary systems, such as RF and inductive systems, face challenges with regulatory compliance and compatibility with high-rate digital signal transfer.
Innovation Solution
An optical system using optically coupled rings with IR LEDs and photodetectors for bi-directional data transfer, allowing for simultaneous parallel data transmission without interruption, even during shaft rotation, and employing a 'handshake' methodology for command and data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RF systems are used for wireless data transfer, then data transfer capability is achieved, but regulatory compliance requirements are imposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces RF electromagnetic wave-based wireless transmission with an optical transmission system using infrared LEDs and photodetectors. This substitution eliminates the need for RF regulatory compliance while achieving wireless data transfer capability through optical coupling between rotating and stationary rings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If inductive systems are used for data transfer, then wireless transmission is achieved, but compatibility with high rate digital signal transfer is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces inductive coupling with direct optical coupling using infrared LEDs and photodetectors arranged in circular patterns on rotating and stationary rings. This enables high-rate digital signal transfer through optical modulation and detection, achieving both wireless transmission and high-speed data transfer compatibility.
3Reliability
If slip rings are used for data transfer, then continuous signal transmission is achieved, but device complexity and reliability issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical slip rings with an optical transmission system using infrared LEDs and photodetectors arranged in circular patterns on rotating and stationary rings. This eliminates mechanical contact, reducing wear and reliability issues while maintaining continuous signal transmission capability through optical coupling.
4Productivity
If optical coupling with multiple LEDs is used, then simultaneous parallel data transmission is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the data transmission function into multiple parallel channels by arranging multiple infrared LEDs and photodetectors in circular patterns on the rotating and stationary rings. Each LED-photodetector pair forms an independent transmission channel, enabling simultaneous parallel data transmission and increasing overall data transmission speed.
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
This solution effectively transfers torque measurement data from shaft-mounted sensors to stationary electronics, eliminating the disadvantages of RF and inductive systems by ensuring continuous and reliable data transfer with high-speed communication, compatible with various industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
The stationary ring carries an array of IR LEDs capable of emitting light pulses
Implementation Method 2
The shaft mounted ring carries a photodetector capable of detecting incident light pulses
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system for wireless data communication between the sensor electronics on a rotary shaft and the fixed data processor is disclosed. A first ring carrying IR LEDs is mounted to rotate with the shaft. A second ring carrying a photodetector is mounted adjacent to the first ring but does not rotate with the shaft. In the disclosed embodiment, both rings have LEDs and a photodetector so data and/or information can be transferred both to and from the shaft.