Patent ID: 6031949
Filing Date: 2000-02-29
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
An optical slip ring for communication of data with a rotor, the slip ring comprising at least one light emitter mounted on the rotor or on an adjacent fixed support, at least one light receiver on the other of the rotor or fixed support, a drive means for delivering data signals to each light emitter, and a receiver means for receiving data signals from each light receiver and providing an output signal, whereineach light emitter emits light in an emission field diverging at an angle of divergence of at least 30.degree.,the drive means comprises means for connecting to a transducer, a voltage to frequency converter, and means for delivering frequency modulated data signals to each light emitter,the receiver means comprises means for demodulating said frequency modulated data signals, andthe slip ring further comprises:a rotor interface comprising a flange for removable on-axis attachment to the rotor and means for supporting the drive means and each light emitter or the receiver means and each light receiver,a fixed support for the other of the light receiver and the receiver means or the light emitter and the drive means, andmeans for moving the fixed support relative to the rotor interface in a sliding motion to a position at which the light receivers and emitters are within range and there is no physical connection between the fixed support and the rotor interface.