Transceiver Power Control for Wireless Position Measuring Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing position measuring systems in machine tools face challenges with real-time data transmission and energy efficiency due to delays and high energy consumption in wireless communication, particularly with frequency hopping methods and systems that gradually increase transmission power.

Innovation Solution

A method for controlling transmission power in a transceiver device that adjusts power based on confirmation messages, using chirp signals in a frequency spread method to ensure robust and time-critical data transmission with low energy consumption, and employing group and device IDs for efficient communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If frequency hopping method is used for wireless data transmission, then data transmission between measuring system and control unit is achieved without extensive wiring, but delay time increases to about 20ms and real-time requirements cannot be met

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless data transmissionVSAvoiddelay time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of wireless communication from frequency hopping to direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) with chirp signals. This parameter change reduces delay time while maintaining wireless operation, as DSSS allows for faster signal processing and shorter transmission times compared to frequency hopping sequences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If transmission power is increased step by step to establish radio connection, then connection reliability is improved, but connection establishment time increases and energy consumption rises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection establishmentVSAvoidconnection establishment time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the transceiver with the base station before actual data transmission begins. The teaching phase pre-establishes timing relationships and communication parameters, so that when measurement data needs to be transmitted, the connection is already optimized and ready, eliminating the need for step-by-step power increases during critical measurement moments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If transmission power is constantly increased to ensure connection, then connection robustness is improved, but energy consumption increases leading to frequent battery changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection robustnessVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic transmission power control where the transceiver adjusts its power output based on real-time communication conditions and distance from the base station. During the teaching phase, optimal parameters are established, and during measurement phases, power is dynamically adjusted to maintain reliable connection only when necessary, rather than constantly operating at high power levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The transceiver performs self-optimization of transmission power based on feedback from the base station and measured communication quality. The system automatically adjusts its own power consumption characteristics to maintain reliable connection while minimizing energy usage, without requiring external intervention or constant high power operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If large number of measuring probes send signals simultaneously via radio link, then measurement capability is expanded, but interference problems increase and system reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement capabilityVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the communication resources by assigning unique identifiers and time slots to different measuring probes. Each probe operates in its designated time window or frequency channel, preventing simultaneous transmissions from causing interference. This segmentation allows multiple probes to function independently while maintaining system reliability through controlled access to the shared radio medium.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 approach reduces energy consumption, minimizes delay times, and enhances robustness against interference, meeting real-time requirements and extending battery life in mobile measuring systems.

Implementation Method 1

using chirp signals in a frequency spread method to ensure robust and time-critical data transmission

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency spread method with chirp signals:

Data Source

PatentEP2208017B1Method for teaching a transmission/reception device with respect to a basis station in a position measuring system for a machine
Publication Date: 2011.03.09 BLUM NOVOTEST
  • EP2208017B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2208017B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2208017B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for controlling the transmitter power of a transmission/reception device (T) for a position measuring system of a machine. Said transmission/reception device (T) is connected to a base station (B) and carries out the following steps: a first transmitter power message is transmitted to a first transmitter power (Pout), and a second transmitter power message is sent to a second transmitter power (Pout). The second transmitter power is lower than the first transmitter power if a transmitter power acknowledgement message (ACK) has been captured as the response to the sent first transmitter power message, and the second transmitter power is higher than the first transmitter power if no transmitter power acknowledgement message (ACK) has been captured as the response to the sent first transmitter power message.