Wireless Switch-On Unit for Modular Linear Transport Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear transport systems lack an efficient and modular control mechanism for tools attached to movable units, limiting flexibility and compatibility with different tool manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A switch-on unit with a housing containing energy-receiving and communication electronics, allowing for modular integration of application electronics, enabling efficient data and power transmission to tools, and supporting firmware updates without interrupting system operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tool is integrated into a movable unit of a linear transport system, then the tool can be transported and controlled within the system, but the complexity of energy and data transmission between stationary and movable units increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connections for energy and data transmission with wireless electromagnetic fields. Energy is transmitted via inductive coupling between a stationary coil and a movable coil, while data is transmitted via RFID communication between stationary and movable antennas, eliminating the need for physical connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The movable unit is designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate different tool types. The housing contains standardized installation spaces and connection points that can interface with various tools while maintaining the same wireless energy and data transmission mechanism
2Ease of operation
If application electronics are integrated into the movable unit, then tool control capability is enhanced, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: the movable unit with wireless reception components, the tool with application electronics, and the housing as a structural platform. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently before assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves as an intermediary structure that houses the wireless energy and data reception components. It provides a standardized interface between the movable unit and the tool, simplifying the integration process for different tool manufacturers
3Reliability
If wireless energy and data transmission is implemented, then connection reliability between stationary and movable units is improved, but the energy transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses inductive coupling with coils positioned in close proximity to maximize magnetic field coupling efficiency. The stationary coil and movable coil are arranged to ensure optimal alignment, and the housing structure maintains consistent spacing to preserve transmission efficiency while enabling wireless connection
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
Facilitates a modular design that supports various tools, enhances mechanical stability, and ensures reliable power and data transmission, while allowing for tool exchange and firmware updates without system disruption.
Implementation Method 1
an energy-receiving coil (105) with energy-receiving electronics (121)
Implementation Method 2
a movable antenna (110) with communication electronics (122)
Data Source
AI summary
A switch-on unit for a tool of a movable unit of a linear transport system can be fastened to the movable unit. The switch-on unit includes a housing, an energy-receiving coil with energy-receiving electronics, and a movable antenna with communication electronics. The energy-receiving electronics and the communication electronics are disposed on at least a first circuit board within the housing. The housing has an opening for connections of the tool and an installation space for application electronics. A first circuit board has a first interface for the application electronics, with a power supply and communication link. The communication electronics are arranged to receive a first data signal via the movable antenna, to calculate a second data signal from information about a data structure of the first data signal and the first data signal, and to provide the second data signal at the communication link.