Rotary Switch NFC Communication for Articulated Arm CMM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metrology instruments lack effective methods for communication between the device and external devices, limiting operator control, configuration, and parameter changes, particularly in portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMMs).
Innovation Solution
The integration of a rotary switch device with a near field communication (NFC) circuit that modulates an operating field to enable communication between the metrology instrument and external devices, allowing for remote control, configuration, and wireless updates, while eliminating the need for mechanical components like slip rings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical components like slip rings are used for communication in rotating parts, then physical connection is maintained, but reliability decreases and cost increases due to wear and mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical slip rings with a magnetic field-based communication system. A reader circuit generates a magnetic field that induces current in an antenna circuit on the rotating probe end, enabling wireless data transmission without physical contact. This eliminates mechanical wear and improves reliability while reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary medium for data transmission between the stationary reader circuit and the rotating probe end. The magnetic field serves as a non-contact mediator that transfers energy and information without requiring mechanical connection, solving the reliability issue of traditional slip rings.
2Device complexity
If wireless communication is implemented in rotating components, then mechanical components are eliminated, but communication capability must be established through electromagnetic coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical connection with electromagnetic induction for data communication. The reader circuit generates a magnetic field that couples with the antenna circuit on the rotating end, enabling wireless transmission of control signals and measurement data without any mechanical contact points.
3Ease of operation
If near field communication circuits are integrated into rotating probes, then wireless control and configuration is enabled, but energy consumption increases due to continuous field generation
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating probe end harvests energy from the magnetic field generated by the reader circuit through electromagnetic induction. The induced current in the antenna circuit powers the communication function locally, eliminating the need for an independent power source on the rotating end and 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
Facilitates efficient communication and control of metrology devices, enabling wireless updates and configuration, and reduces costs by eliminating the need for mechanical components, improving reliability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a first near field communication circuit and first antenna circuit cooperate to modulate an operating field when the first switch is closed
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary switch device such as that used on the probe end of an articulated arm coordinate measurement machine is provided. The rotary switch having a housing with an axis of rotation. A first actuator is coupled to the housing. A first switch is coupled to the first actuator, the first actuator being configured to selectively close the first switch. A first electrical circuit is provided. A first antenna circuit is electrically coupled the first switch to the first electrical circuit, wherein the first electrical circuit and first antenna circuit cooperate to modulate an operating field when the first switch is closed. A reader circuit is arranged fixed relative to the axis of rotation, the reader circuit including a transmitter configured to emit the operating field and a receiver configured to detect the modulated operating field.