Wireless Power Generation Module for Field Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial field devices face challenges in reliable power sourcing, particularly in areas with limited sunlight, as internal batteries struggle to meet varying energy demands and solar power is unreliable in shaded or low-solar regions.
Innovation Solution
A wireless power and communication unit that utilizes non-solar energy sources, such as wind power, fuel cells, and energy from process fluids, to generate electricity for field devices, eliminating the need for solar power and internal batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If solar power is used to power wireless field devices, then the devices can operate wirelessly without wired connections, but the power supply becomes unreliable in shaded areas or regions with low solar isolation such as the Arctic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-solar power source (such as a battery or power management circuit) as an intermediary to supplement or replace solar power in conditions where solar energy is insufficient. This intermediary power source ensures continuous operation of the wireless field device regardless of solar availability, thereby resolving the contradiction between wireless operation and power reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If internal batteries are used to power wireless field devices, then the devices can operate independently without external power sources, but the service interval is limited and requires periodic replacement or recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a power management system that continuously monitors and manages the battery charge state, optimizing power consumption to extend the service interval. The system may include low-power sleep modes, adaptive transmission power control, and efficient energy harvesting to maintain continuous operation for extended periods, thereby addressing the limited duration of internal battery operation.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If solar cells are used to charge internal batteries, then the devices can operate indefinitely with renewable energy, but the operation becomes unreliable in areas with full shade twenty-four hours a day or very low solar isolation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a hybrid power system that combines multiple power sources (solar cells and non-solar alternatives such as batteries or other energy harvesting mechanisms) into a single universal power management platform. This multi-functional system can automatically switch between different power sources based on availability, ensuring both extended operational duration and reliable power generation across diverse environmental conditions including shaded or low-solar-isolation areas.
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
Enables reliable operation of field devices in diverse environments by providing a consistent power source independent of solar energy, extending service intervals and reducing reliance on internal batteries.
Implementation Method 1
fuel cells using oxygen, or fuel cells utilizing molecules from the process fluid to generate electricity
Data Source
AI summary
A process device includes a controller and a wireless communications module. The wireless communications module is coupled to the controller. A power generation module is provided to generate electricity for the process device. The power generator module can be disposed within the process device or it can be a separate unit coupled to the process device.