Planetary Gear Sensor Power via Inductive Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing planetary gear arrangements face challenges in powering sensors located in the rotating part, as traditional energy supply methods, such as batteries, are limited and prone to failure, while wired connections are not feasible for continuous energy transmission.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module with a first sending/receiving unit in the rotating part and a second sending/receiving unit in the non-rotating part, utilizing inductive coupling for energy transmission, allowing for continuous powering of the sensor without the need for a battery in the rotating part, with an optional energy storage serving as a buffer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a battery is used to power the sensor in the rotating part, then the sensor can be powered continuously, but the battery will be discharged after limited time and require replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical energy storage system (battery) with an electromagnetic energy transmission system. The sending/receiving units utilize electromagnetic induction to transmit energy wirelessly to the sensor in the rotating part, eliminating the need for physical battery replacement and associated failure modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sending/receiving units as intermediary components that facilitate energy transfer between the stationary power source and the rotating sensor. These units act as mediators that enable continuous energy supply without direct physical connection or finite energy storage in the rotating part.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a wired connection is used to supply energy to the sensor in the rotating part, then continuous energy supply is possible, but the wiring becomes complex and prone to failure during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical wiring system with an electromagnetic field-based energy transmission system. The sending/receiving units utilize electromagnetic induction to transfer energy without physical conductors in the rotating path, dramatically simplifying the system architecture while enabling continuous power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The sending/receiving units serve as intermediary devices that bridge the stationary power source and the rotating sensor through electromagnetic coupling. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for complex rotating joints and wiring while maintaining continuous energy transfer.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sensor is arranged in the non-rotating part of the gear, then energy supply via cable is easy, but the sensor cannot directly sense properties at the rotating part
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the system into two functional segments: the sending unit remains in the stationary part for easy energy supply, while the receiving unit and sensor are integrated in the rotating part for direct measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally positioned for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sending/receiving units act as intermediaries that bridge the stationary and rotating parts of the system. They enable both energy transfer and data communication across the rotating interface, allowing the sensor to be positioned optimally for measurement while maintaining easy energy supply through the stationary sending unit.
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 reliable and efficient powering of sensors in the rotating part, reducing the risk of battery-related failures and saving space, while maintaining robustness and extending the lifetime of the gear arrangement.
Implementation Method 1
the first sending/receiving unit and the second sending/receiving unit configured to be inductively coupled during a rotation of the rotating part
Data Source
AI summary
In a planetary gear arrangement with a planetary gear which includes a rotating part and a non-rotating part, and with a sensor module for sensing properties of the planetary gear, the sensor module includes a sensor as well as a first sending/receiving unit and a second sending/receiving unit, wherein the sensor and the first sending/receiving unit are coupled and arranged at the rotating part, and wherein the second sending/receiving unit is arranged at the non-rotating part, wherein the first sending/receiving unit and the second sending/receiving unit are configured for being inductively coupled, wherein the first sending/receiving unit includes an energy storage, wherein the energy storage is configured for being charged during each turn of the rotating part for powering the sensor via the first sending/receiving unit in order to perform measurements.