Low Power Timer and Regulator for Autonomous Data Recorder Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional autonomous data recording devices consume significant power during idle periods and have limited scheduling flexibility, which reduces their operational life and data collection capacity in remote wildlife monitoring applications.
Innovation Solution
A system that combines redundant functional elements of the data recorder and controller, using a programmable timer and power regulator to disconnect power during idle periods, with a microprocessor-powered controller that programs the timer to deactivate the alarm signal, allowing for highly flexible scheduling and minimizing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a microprocessor-based controller is used to control power to the audio recorder, then programming flexibility is improved, but power consumption during idle periods increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two distinct functional modules: a low-power timer module that handles scheduling and a microprocessor-based controller that handles complex control tasks. The timer operates independently with minimal power consumption, while the microprocessor is only activated during recording periods or when programming is needed, thus achieving both programming flexibility and reduced idle power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
A power regulator is introduced as an intermediary component between the battery and the controller/audio recorder. The power regulator receives control signals from the timer to enable or disable power supply to the controller, allowing the microprocessor to remain inactive during idle periods while still providing full functionality when needed.
2Extent of automation
If a relay is used to power the audio recorder based on interval timers, then recording scheduling is achieved, but power consumption increases due to relay operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical relay system is replaced with an electronic control system using a solid-state power regulator controlled by a low-power timer. This substitution eliminates the mechanical components and their associated power consumption while maintaining the automated recording scheduling functionality through electronic timing and power control circuits.
3Measurement precision
If the controller remains powered during idle periods to maintain scheduling capabilities, then scheduling accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scheduling function is segmented from the main controller and implemented in a dedicated low-power timer circuit. This timer can maintain accurate timekeeping and trigger recording events with minimal power consumption, while the power-intensive microprocessor controller remains dormant during idle periods, achieving both scheduling accuracy and low power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for powering a device, such as a data recorder or other device, according to an adjustable schedule. One example of the apparatus includes a programmable timer having an alarm output, a power regulator having an enable input coupled to the alarm output, a controller coupled to the power regulator and to the programmable timer, the controller being configured to receive operating power from the power regulator, and a powered device coupled to the power regulator and configured to receive power from the power regulator. The regulator has an operating state in which the operating power is provided to the powered device and an idle state in which the operating power is not provided to the powered device. The regulator is configured to be activated into the operating state by activation of the alarm output and deactivated into the idle state by deactivation of the alarm output, under the control of the controller.