Wireless Coupling Layout for Contactless Power and Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial connectors used in robotics experience high wear due to frequent plugging and unplugging, necessitating a solution for efficient and durable wireless data and energy transmission.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a compact design utilizing an air coil and ferrite body for inductive energy transmission and directional electromagnetic signal propagation for data transmission, enabling efficient wireless energy and data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connectors are used for data and energy transmission, then reliable connection is achieved, but wear increases due to frequent plugging and unplugging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connector systems with an inductive coupling system that uses electromagnetic fields for both energy and data transmission. The primary coil generates a magnetic field that induces current in the secondary coil for power transfer, while communication coils transmit data via electromagnetic induction, eliminating mechanical contact and wear entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single inductive coupling system: the primary coil serves for energy transmission, while separate communication coils handle data transmission. This multi-functional approach replaces multiple separate connectors (power and data) with one unified wireless system, reducing wear points while maintaining comprehensive connectivity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If wireless energy transmission is implemented, then connector wear is reduced, but transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes wireless transmission efficiency by carefully selecting and adjusting key parameters: operating frequency (affecting coupling strength and efficiency), coil winding configurations (turns, diameter, spacing), ferrite material properties (permeability, loss tangent), and alignment tolerances. These parameter optimizations minimize energy loss while maintaining wireless operation.
3Volume of moving object
If compact design is achieved through component integration, then device size is reduced, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different spatial and functional characteristics to different coil regions: energy transmission coils are positioned and oriented for maximum power coupling, while communication coils are strategically placed and oriented to minimize interference with energy coils. Ferrite shielding and directional antenna elements further localize electromagnetic fields to their intended functions, reducing cross-interference in the compact integrated design.
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 provides a space-saving, high-efficiency wireless energy and data transmission system that reduces wear and tear on connectors, suitable for industrial applications like robot-assisted automation systems.
Implementation Method 1
an air-core coil (52) acting as the primary coil for inductively transmitting supply energy to a secondary coil (352) of a coupling device (310) acting as a secondary coupler
Implementation Method 2
a ferrite body (51) having a through-opening (53) and at least one air-core coil (52) acting as the primary coil
Implementation Method 3
transmit data by means of a communication device (60) in the form of electromagnetic signals in a main radiation direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates, inter alia, to a coupling device (10) for wireless data and energy transfer, comprising a housing (20, 30), a communication device (60) located in the housing (20, 30) for wireless data transfer, wherein the communication device (60) is designed to emit electromagnetic signals in a main emission direction, and a wireless energy transfer device (50) which is located in the housing (20, 30) and comprises a ferrite body (51) having a through-opening (53), and comprises at least one air coil (52) which defines an opening (54) and is located on the ferrite body (51), wherein the air coil (52), the ferrite body (51) and the communication device (60) are arranged in relation to one another in such a way that electromagnetic signals emitted by the communication device (60) in the main emission direction propagate through the through-opening (53) in the ferrite body (51) and through the opening (54) in the at least one air coil (52).