Device for the Transmission of a Microwave Along a Rotating Part

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is a device that transmits microwave signals through a rotating component without requiring the signal path to pass through the central rotation axis. It uses a curved waveguide — typically a coplanar waveguide wrapped around the outside or inside of a cylindrical rotating part — combined with a sliding contact (such as a spring-loaded pogo pin or a fuzz button) that maintains electrical contact as the part rotates. This allows the central axis to remain free for other components like coolant lines, vacuum systems, or mechanical shafts. The design supports continuous 360-degree rotation when the waveguide forms a complete ring, or limited-angle rotation for partial arcs.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Rotating radar antennas in air traffic control towers, enabling uninterrupted 360-degree microwave signal transmission during continuous rotation.
• Satellite ground station parabolic dishes that require precise rotational alignment while maintaining a live microwave feed.
• Medical imaging equipment such as CT scanners, where a rotating gantry must transmit microwave signals without occupying the central bore needed for the patient or other systems.
• Robotic arms and industrial automation machinery where a rotating joint must pass microwave signals for real-time monitoring or control.
• Helicopter or rotary-wing aircraft rotor systems, transmitting microwave signals between rotating and stationary parts of the aircraft.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with rotating radar sensor heads, ensuring reliable signal continuity during rotation.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Frees the central rotation axis for other components such as coolant lines, vacuum transfer systems, or mechanical shafts, enabling more compact and multifunctional designs.
• Eliminates the complexity and bulk of traditional rotary joints that depend on central-axis signal routing.
• Supports full 360-degree continuous rotation when a ring-shaped waveguide is used, removing angular limitations on rotating assemblies.
• The optional small gap between the sliding contact and the waveguide surface eliminates friction and mechanical wear while still allowing microwave transmission.
• Spring-loaded contacts (pogo pins or fuzz buttons) accommodate slight misalignments and surface variations, improving connection reliability during rotation.
• The coplanar waveguide can be manufactured via printing or additive manufacturing directly onto a curved substrate, simplifying production and enabling miniaturization.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

[0001] The invention refers to a device comprising a rotating part, a waveguide and a sliding contact, wherein the sliding contact contacts a curved surface area of the rotating part and wherein the device is configured to transmit a microwave along the waveguide, along the sliding contact and along the rotating part.