Wireless RF Coupling for Modular Slave Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular man-machine dialogue systems face interference issues due to wired links and the use of intermediary support modules, especially with wireless communication, which can be costly and bulky, and are prone to environmental interference.
Innovation Solution
A wireless radio-frequency communications system with directional couplings on a printed circuit board, allowing slave modules to communicate directly with a master module without electrical contact, using capacitive and inductive couplings and optimized coupling areas to minimize interference and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication is used between slave modules and master module, then the system becomes more flexible and easier to upgrade, but radio wave interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary support module with a wired bus connection that mediates between the slave modules and the master module. The slave modules connect to the support module via wired links (avoiding radio interference), while the support module communicates with the master module wirelessly. This intermediary structure allows modular flexibility while eliminating direct radio wave interference between slave and master modules.
2Ease of operation
If NFC, RFID or Wilkinson power divider technologies are used, then wireless communication is achieved, but cost and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive capacitive and inductive coupling circuits instead of expensive NFC, RFID, or Wilkinson power divider technologies. These basic coupling circuits achieve wireless communication functionality at low cost and with minimal device size, making the system economically viable while maintaining ease of operation.
3Strength
If slave modules are mounted on metal enclosure, then mechanical protection is improved, but radio wave interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support module acts as an intermediary that provides wired connections to slave modules, allowing these modules to be mounted on metal enclosures for mechanical protection without generating radio wave interference. The wired bus connection through the support module eliminates the need for direct wireless communication between metal-mounted slave modules and the master module.
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 solution provides a simple, space-saving, and economical method for multiple slave modules to communicate with a master module, reducing interference and environmental impact while allowing easy module upgrades and maintenance, without affecting other systems or the environment.
Implementation Method 1
the directional couplings at the first coupling area and at the second coupling area are capacitive and inductive couplings
Implementation Method 2
the directional couplings at the first coupling area and at the second coupling area are capacitive and inductive couplings
Implementation Method 3
the directional couplings at the first coupling area and at the second coupling area are capacitive and inductive couplings
Implementation Method 4
the directional couplings at the first coupling area and at the second coupling area are capacitive and inductive couplings
Data Source
AI summary
A system for short-distance radio-frequency communications between a master module and a plurality of detachable slave modules, the communications system including a main electrical line connected to the master module and having a plurality of coupling points, wherein the communications system further includes a plurality of secondary electrical lines each having a first coupling area for a directional coupling between the secondary line and the main line at a coupling point, and a second coupling area for a directional coupling between the secondary line and a slave module, the second coupling area being distinct from the first coupling area.