Modular measuring device with distributed data and algorithms

Abstract

A sensor module includes a sensor element with a transducer for emitting an electric analog primary signal, which depends on a measured value; and a circuit assembly for conditioning the primary signal and for unidirectional data communication of a digital signal, which depends on the primary signal, to a superordinated unit. The circuit assembly has the following components: a signal input for receiving the primary signal, which depends on the measured value; a secondary side, inductively coupling, plug connector element for connection to a primary side, inductively coupling, plug connector element of the superordinated unit for receiving an energy signal and for transferring a measurement signal; an energy supply circuit, which rectifies the energy signal and provides at least one direct voltage for supplying the sensor module components; an analog signal conditioning circuit for conditioning the primary signal to a secondary signal; an analog-digital converter for converting the secondary signal to a digital measurement signal; a modulator for modulating the received energy signal for transferring the measurement signal to a superordinated unit by means of load modulation; and a microcontroller for controlling the components of the circuit assembly.