NearFi – communication in real time
Full duplex transmission of all Ethernet protocols
Full duplex transmission, i.e., simultaneous transmission in both directions, is required in order to transmit real-time Ethernet protocols.
NearFi uses two 60 GHz connections (one uplink and one downlink) in parallel on separate frequency bands in order to enable full duplex mode.
This means that the technology is also suitable for future developments, such as TSN, OPC UA, etc.
Bit-oriented transmission is latency-free
Bit-oriented transmission
NearFi uses a synchronous, bit-oriented transmission method. This allows contactless communication in real time, meaning that every Ethernet protocol is transmitted immediately.
All other radio transmission technologies to date rely on packet-oriented transmission. This always leads to considerable latency, as packets are first received, then repackaged and sent wirelessly. The wireless packet must be received at the receiver end, unpackaged, and output again. This process involves many asynchronous and latency-causing operations, which are completely eliminated by the innovative transmission technology from Phoenix Contact.
Inductive power transmission via magnetic field
Inductive power transmission
Power transmission is inductive. The base coupler generates a magnetic field via a coil, which is induced in the coil of the remote coupler.
Active closed-loop control always selects the optimum parameters for transmission. This means that the power is kept at a constant 50 W over an operating range of a few centimeters.
Wireless technologies for every requirement
Coexistence with WLAN and other wireless technologies
NearFi is based on wireless 60 GHz communication in the near-field range at a very low range of a few millimeters.
Thus, as many NearFi systems as desired can be operated in parallel with existing wireless technologies such as WLAN and Bluetooth without any interference.
NearFi technology in automotive production
Application in the automotive sector
Because NearFi transmits power and data across an air gap, transmission is efficient and wear-free. Service actions and maintenance costs are reduced and system availability is increased. Therefore, the lower costs and optimized production processes significantly reduce the amortization period of the system.
A robot arm in automotive production that makes hundreds of mating cycles per day with its gripping tool is a particularly illustrative example of the wear and tear on connections. The service life of connectors is, however, limited, because the contacts can become soiled and warped. This leads to unplanned or unforeseeable production stoppages and regular maintenance intervals, the costs of which can quickly reach seven figures. With the new NearFi technology, you can replace connections subject to wear easily.