Onboard RF Reading Cable for Reliable Rotating Transponder Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiofrequency transponder reading systems for transport means, such as vehicles and conveyor belts, face issues with reliability due to multiple antennas and connections, which are prone to failure from vibrations and shocks, and are costly due to the spatial footprint and numerous connections.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional communication cable with a radiating part is arranged to maintain a specific spatial relationship with movable assemblies, ensuring reliable and efficient radiofrequency communication by minimizing the distance and maintaining a consistent electromagnetic coupling, even under deformation, using capacitive coupling and surface waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple radiofrequency antennas and transmission lines are installed to cover the geographical area, then the reading system can communicate with movable assemblies, but the spatial footprint increases and the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple antennas and transmission lines into a single integrated cable assembly. The cable incorporates both the transmission line and the antenna functions in one component, eliminating the need for separate antennas and reducing the number of connection points. This directly addresses the contradiction by maintaining reading capability while reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a transmission line for signal conveyance and as a radiating antenna for electromagnetic communication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while maintaining the ability to communicate with movable assemblies throughout the geographical area.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple connection points are created between radiofrequency elements, then the reading system can be assembled, but the risk of failure due to vibrations and shocks increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the transmission line and antenna into a single integrated cable assembly with fewer connection points, the patent reduces the number of potential failure points. The cable is designed to be fixed to the transport means with minimal connections, directly reducing vulnerability to vibrations and shocks while maintaining assembly feasibility.
3Reliability
If multiple transmission lines and radiofrequency antennas are mounted on the transport means, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate components (transmission lines and antennas) into a single integrated cable assembly. This reduction in the quantity of components directly lowers material costs, installation costs, and maintenance costs while maintaining the reliability of the reading system through the unified design.
4Reliability
If rigid radiofrequency antennas are fixed to the transport means, then stable communication is achieved, but the spatial footprint within the transport means increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the antenna function into the cable itself rather than using separate rigid antenna structures, the patent reduces the spatial footprint required within the transport means. The cable can be routed along existing structures and fixed in compact configurations, maintaining communication stability while occupying less space.
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 enhances communication reliability and reduces costs by minimizing the number of connections and antennas, ensuring effective radiofrequency communication with movable assemblies despite deformations, thus improving system durability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a generator of electrical signals emitting at a frequency F0 included in the ultra-high frequency band, coupled to a demodulator of electrical signals adapted to a frequency band around F0
Implementation Method 2
maintaining the distance and maintaining a consistent electromagnetic coupling, even under deformation, using capacitive coupling and surface waves
Implementation Method 3
maintaining the distance and maintaining a consistent electromagnetic coupling, even under deformation, using capacitive coupling and surface waves
Data Source
AI summary
Transport means (2) equipped with a movable assembly (1) comprises a first part (12) set in motion about an axis of rotation (102) by a second assembly (11), the movable assembly (1) being equipped with a radiofrequency transponder (100) and a reading system (3) comprising: a generator coupled to a demodulator (31) of electrical signals; and a cable (32) galvanically connected to the generator (31), fixed to the transport means (2) and comprising a radiating part (342). The projection P onto a plane of the first part (12) located between two contiguous axes of rotation (11a, 11b) and/or the projection R onto a cylinder (104), of axis of revolution (102), circumscribing the first part (12) in contact with the second assembly (11) of the radiating part, is less than 1 meter.