DE102006013732A1 - Sensor module for use in e.g. golf ball, has sensor unit formed for outputting electrical signal in dependence of specified measured variable, and signal processing unit connected with sensor unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The module has a sensor unit (103) formed for outputting an electrical signal in dependence of a specified measured variable. A signal processing unit is connected with the sensor unit. A transmitting and receiving unit (105) is connected with the sensor unit for wireless transmission of data. A power source in the form of a standard battery or storage battery in button cell form is provided. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a sensor module system comprising multiple sensor modules (2) a data acquisition system comprising a sensor module (3) a method for data acquisition (4) a method for manufacturing a sensor module.

Description

In Many areas are sensors for the acquisition of data of a DUT The recovered data are then processed in a suitable manner and evaluated. This is usually the sensor signal subjected to a suitable signal processing in order to obtain the desired measurement in the to quantify the required accuracy. In many applications is a direct mechanical connection of a sensor element to a external signal processing device, such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor or an analog processing circuit with amplifier etc. not possible or not desirable if it is connected with an influence of the measuring object or would mean a high installation cost. For example, at Moved objects to be measured a wired lead-out of Sensor signals often not possible or associated with high costs. Also in stationary applications can be through a cable Sensor signal acquisition a high effort to create a reduced Flexibility with bring, for example, the location of one or more sensors changed shall be.

Out This reason will be common Sensor systems provided with additional functionality, for example a connection of the sensors to peripheral evaluation components facilitate. Especially with a wireless connection of sensor elements to corresponding evaluation components, however, results in known Systems require a lot of effort to the sensor data accurate and reliable transmit peripheral component, by, for example, large Transceiver units or DF stations for communication with the sensor element are required. This will be the possible use wirelessly communicating sensor elements severely limited or the Influence on the actual measurement or monitoring task is not to neglect more.

in view of This problem is an object of the present invention, a more flexible use of sensors taking into account a greater bandwidth to enable conditions of the measurement and / or monitoring situations.

According to one Aspect of the present invention achieves this object by a self-sufficient Sensor module solved. The self-contained sensor module includes a sensor element for output an electrical signal formed in response to a specified measured variable is a signal processing unit connected to the sensor element, a transmitting and receiving unit connected to the signal processing unit for wireless transmission of data and an energy source for at least temporary self-sufficient Operation of the sensor module.

by virtue of This arrangement provides a self-sufficient device which an autonomous wireless sensor communication module that represents a needs-based recording, processing, storage and transmission and receiving data over at least one integrated sensor can be detected. An integrated signal processing takes over the preparation of the Data, which about the transmitting and receiving unit acting as a wireless communication interface for e.g. radio transmission serves, transmits to other similar devices or a receiver module become. Thus, a self-sufficient operation of the sensor module is at least over for many purposes sufficiently long periods of time guaranteed so that a reliable measurement the specified measurand or the execution a monitoring task without providing a complex infrastructure is made possible.

In further advantageous embodiment the self-sufficient sensor module is formed, at least a first Operating state and a second different operating state The first operating state is a power-saving state represents in which at least one data transmission is deactivated by the transmitting and receiving unit or restricted is.

On This way, the self-sufficient operation over long periods of time be maintained because in the energy-saving state, which is one of several different degrees Energy saving modes can be done, a significant reduction in energy can, passing by be caused to the energy-saving state of the module itself can and / by a from outside received signal can be effected. For example, a be provided corresponding control signal, the operation of the Module as well as the energy status, so that, depending on the configuration of the control unit the transition to cause the energy-saving state. For this purpose, the control unit may have decision criteria dispose, in which operating state the energy-saving state or, if several Power Saving Modes Are available, which energy saving state is to be assumed. Alternatively or additionally made this decision based on an external control signal for example, over the transmitting and receiving unit is received.

In a further embodiment, the self-sufficient sensor module is formed, from the first operating state to the second operating state Initialization by means of a mechanical and / or electrical and / or magnetic and / or electromagnetic and / or optical signal to pass.

Of the second operating state, the fully operational state of the module can, lets with external sources, such as a remote data sending unit or another sensor module, calling, allowing a high degree of controllability from the outside possible is, which causes an increased flexibility when using the module.

In a further embodiment the control unit is designed to transition to the second operating state by means of one of the sensor element to the signal processing unit to issue the issued signal.

On this way, the sensor element itself for detecting a the full operational readiness requiring situation to be used which is especially for monitoring tasks of great Advantage can be, since here the measured values are usually not too predictable Times are incurred. It can be a more or less continuous Capture but not transmit and possibly also only an energy-saving preprocessing but recognizing an appropriate situation, for example, the overshoot or undershoot a threshold allowed. For initialization of the second operating state can thus the integrated sensor itself as well as possibly further integrated Sensors, e.g. by detecting vibration, heat, humidity.

In a further embodiment the signal processing unit has an analog / digital converter, which can also be integrated in the sensor itself, and a digital Signal processing section for processing the output from the sensor element Signal on. This can be used to efficiently implement software-based signal processing processes, so a big one modularity can be achieved because the circuit configuration of the signal processing unit for one Variety of different sensor elements and thus for measuring and / or monitoring and / or control tasks can be used, since the adaptation by Software can be done. If necessary, this way too the sensor signal can be provided digitally.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the sensor module a miniaturized structure based on micro-system technology and microelectronics technology is realized. By using this modern manufacturing process can be an extremely compact Realize the design of the sensor module, allowing for a large bandwidth of applications an attachment to the test object is possible, wherein caused no significant functional impairment of the test object becomes. The through the technical implementation of the sensor module according to the invention achieved miniaturization in the smallest space, in which the sensor, the radio interface, the signal processor and passive components are accommodated it that the sensor module in almost any objects and Objects to install or accommodate is, with just the design can also be brought into a suitable shape, so that a functional impairment effectively suppressed can. That is, by the manufacturing method, the compact miniaturized Module depending on the application and requirement in its design, for example as a sphere, a cube, flexible band, and the like are suitably adapted. Furthermore is through the execution the sensor module in a modular design, which is different from the above Making techniques particularly advantageous, the possibility created certain Replacing functional elements according to the requirements of the application or replace, so that, for example, the sensor element by another can be replaced or that the energy source in more efficient and cheaper Way can be exchanged. The for the production of the miniaturized Module used methods and technologies of microsystems technology, Microelectronics and micromechanics can vary widely Way combined and according to the requirements of the embodiment adapted to the module or the corresponding available technology become. For example, the sensor module can be made using the The above technologies should be designed to be newly developed Components such as energy systems without much effort integrate. For example, micro fuel cells, once they are in a cost effective manner available are, instead of more conventional energy sources, such as batteries, accumulators, and the like can be used.

In a further advantageous embodiment is at least one second sensor element provided with the signal processing unit for outputting an electrical signal in response to a second specified one Measured variable is connected. By providing a plurality of sensor elements in the sensor module can in combination a more complex overall function can be met, so that, for example, in special monitoring tasks at temperature and / or smoke limits and / or shocks an alarm trigger can be done.

In further advantageous embodiments At least some of the electronic components are designed as an integrated circuit. Thus, a high degree of compactness can be achieved in conjunction with a high reliability. In an advantageous embodiment, the signal processing unit and at least part of the transmitting and receiving unit are provided in a common integrated circuit. In this way, the proportion of work involved in the assembly of the sensor element can be significantly reduced with regard to the connection of electronic components and the provision of connecting lines, while at the same time providing high functionality and reliability in the smallest possible space. In this case, it may be particularly advantageous to carry out the signal processing or signal preprocessing in the sensor module in a substantially software-supported manner, so that a wide range of applications can be covered on the basis of a given circuit configuration, without the need for redesigning the integrated circuit.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the integrated Circuit further on the sensor element. That way you can the measure Compactness further increase, while also the reliability of the sensor module can be increased can. For example, are for metrologically measured quantities, such as pressure, temperature, acceleration, electric fields, optical measurements, and the like microelectronic or micromechanical sensor elements available, thus making them more efficient Can be included in the circuit concept, so that achieves a low construction volume with simultaneously high reliability can be.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the self-sufficient Sensor module a carrier for Recording of all functional components, wherein the carrier to mechanical stable attachment to or formed in a measurement object is. The provision of a suitably designed support for receiving the individual Components of the sensor module increased the flexibility in the application of the sensor module, since the carrier according to the application can be designed to provide the required level of mechanical stability and thus integrity of the module during installation and even while to provide the measurement phase. Influenced by the miniaturization the sensor module hardly or little the function of the wearer. Especially can the carrier be designed for attachment to a moving object to be measured. This can be a big Open up a variety of applications in which the compact Structure of the sensor module in conjunction with the provision of a suitable carrier Measurements are also possible on small moving objects, without their function essential to impair. In an advantageous embodiment the sensor module is designed to be attached to a moving sports device and in particular in or on a ball of a ball game attachable. Thus let suitable data during the use of sports equipment determine and evaluate in an efficient way, which is a high Measure flexibility and a little effort in terms of peripheral components required are.

In In a further advantageous embodiment, the sensor element comprises at least one acceleration sensor. For determining significant acceleration values is usually a relatively uninfluenced movement of a DUT required, which due to the self-sufficient sensor module of the present Invention a high degree authenticity ensures the obtained measurement data is, with just a little effort in terms of peripheral components is required.

In A further advantageous embodiment comprises the energy source a generator, which acts on the sensor module mechanical Energy and / or electromagnetic energy into electrical energy converts to the operation of the sensor module. That way you can efficient the operating time of the sensor module and thus its level of self-sufficiency increase, by from the outside provided energy can be converted directly in the sensor module can, without possibly requiring an exchange of energy components is. In this case, a corresponding generator in the form of a corresponding miniaturized spring-driven factory or piezoelectric transducer provided be to store mechanical kinetic energy or this energy convert directly into electrical energy while in other embodiments additionally or alternatively, means or components are provided in the generator are to electrical, magnetic or electromagnetic energy in a suitable manner and then in an energy source save. For example, in the generator an inductive Component be provided to efficiently inductively coupled energy convert into electrical energy. In other embodiments can one for the signal transmission used carrier wave be exploited to a corresponding proportion of electrical energy for the Provide supply to the sensor module. A corresponding Conversion of mechanical and / or electromagnetic energy can in particular be advantageous if the sensor module more or less completely in integrated with the corresponding measurement object, so that a direct Access to the sensor module associated with corresponding effort would.

According to another aspect of the present invention is based on the invention This object is achieved by means of a sensor module system having two or more autonomous sensor modules, as shown in the preceding embodiments or in the embodiments to be described, each self-sufficient sensor module is further formed with the other sensor modules of the sensor module system to a self-organizing network form.

The self-organizing network, for example, based on can be set up in the field of radio networks, serves to exchange data between the individual modules and may also be used to establish a communication path to an external Component to be used. Due to the self-organizing Network offers a high degree of flexibility in the Structure of the sensor module system, as a varying number of sensor modules can be used, resulting in a broad field of application, for example in the environmental sector, in building management, in quality control in production processes and in the food industry, in the Machine and system monitoring, in medical supervision, in the leisure area and the like. It can be due to the Network structure of the module system, the data transmission from and to individual Sensor modules can be accomplished in an efficient manner without that size and expensive peripheral components are required.

In A further advantageous embodiment is in the sensor module system Furthermore, a data receiving unit provided with at least one the self-sufficient sensor modules during operation of the system, at least temporarily communicates. This allows desired sensor data to become more efficient Way of reading from the network and for further data processing use.

In In another advantageous embodiment, the transmission and receiving units of the individual self-sufficient sensor modules for signal transmission via electromagnetic Signal transmission channels formed, wherein at least two different frequency ranges provided are. By using different frequency ranges within of the system, where the transmission channels, for example for initialization of the sensor modules as well as for data transmission can be used becomes a needs-based and thus also selectable temporal design in the sensor data acquisition and transmission possible because at Just need different frequency ranges can be used to a reliable one data transfer sure. Furthermore, by providing various Frequency ranges also have a choice in terms of transmission required energy is achieved, allowing for data transmission the sensor modules energy-efficient transmission channels can be selected. So For example, the transmission of data between individual sensor modules with very low intensity in one suitable frequency range, while, for example, the transmission an initialization signal from the outside, for example from the Data receiving unit can be performed in a frequency range, the a long range guaranteed so that each self-sufficient sensor module can be initialized from outside if required can.

In a further advantageous embodiment is in the self-sufficient Sensor modules an algorithm for determining a communication path set up in the system according to a predetermined criterion. On The reason of the implemented algorithm can thus be a suitable Find communication path in which to transfer data from one module to the next and finally transmitted to an external source, such as an external data receiving unit become. That way a reliable one data transmission without big ones Realize complexity of peripheral components, for example the reliable one Connecting only one sensor module in the system to the peripheral Component, such as a data receiving unit required is. So can communication with the external source under specially chosen Considered, for example, in terms of energy-saving and secure data transfer.

In a further advantageous embodiment gives the predetermined Criterion a shortest or an energy-optimized communication path.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a data acquisition system includes one or more standalone sensor modules as described in the preceding embodiments or as described in the following embodiments, the data acquisition system further comprising a data receiving unit configured to receive one or more of the data wirelessly receive data from several self-sufficient sensor modules that are linked to the specified measurand. As previously stated, the miniaturized modular design allows the one or more self-sufficient sensor modules to be integrated with other objects and objects that perform a specific function without significantly affecting their original function. As a result, the objects and objects are given an enhanced function and their performance is increased, since the data acquisition system efficiently detects the corresponding data and thus for another Ver outside the objects and objects are available by means of the data receiving unit. This is especially true when moving objects, such as golf balls, ping-pong balls, tennis balls or other balls are considered, since the state of the moving objects can be monitored with respect to one or more specified measures, the corresponding measurement data having a high degree of authenticity in function have the objects.

In a further advantageous embodiment is also a Data transmission device or a data transmission and reception device provided, which is adapted to at least one of the one or wirelessly transmit data to the multiple sensor modules. In this way For example, the control of the sensor module and, possibly also thus influencing the object in an efficient way done so that a high degree of flexibility in operation of the data acquisition system. For example, initialization signals for initializing an operating state and / or for initialization an energy-saving state are transmitted by the data transmitting device, so that the data acquisition system is highly controllable from the outside. In other embodiments If necessary, the configuration and thus the functional behavior of the self-sufficient sensor module from the outside controlled by, for example, corresponding configuration or transmit control data which will then be a corresponding operation of the sensor module have as a consequence. Possibly. can also be a software update or generally a change the software over the Data transmission unit, so that without direct access from the outside a corresponding updating of the operating behavior of the sensor modules can be done.

In an advantageous embodiment is the data transmitting device for data transmission for a other wireless transmission channel as the data receiving unit formed. In this way, for example the data transmission to the individual sensor modules with regard to that a reliable one data transmission for all Sensor modules simultaneously takes place while data transmission from the sensor modules to the data receiving unit, the criterion one possible efficient and thus energy-saving data transmission can.

In a further embodiment a data processing unit is provided with the data receiving unit communicates to data received in the data receiving unit to process. This can be done in the sensor modules obtained measurement data which have been subjected to signal processing, However, with regard to the actual use of the measured data one Preprocessing can be in energy-saving yet more efficient Way are transmitted to the data processing unit, which then according to their computational resources, a corresponding preparation or display the acquired measurement data can perform. For example, you can do that portable or stationary Computer equipment and the like can be used. Preferably stands while the data processing unit via a wireless transmission channel with the data receiving unit in connection. This can be a high level of flexibility and also compatibility to establish existing network technologies, for example with the wireless transmission channel between the data processing unit and the data receiving unit existing standards, such as the "Bluetooth standard used become.

In A further advantageous embodiment is the data receiving unit designed to feed energy into the one or more sensor modules. In this way, the independence of the Sensor modules or their compactness can be improved because the in the individual sensor modules existing energy source accordingly chosen small can be. For example, the transmitting and receiving unit be designed so that at least part of the data transmission needed energy is obtained from the energy supplied. This is possible for example by converting the carrier wave energy during data transmission or by inductive coupling of energy or by providing an optical beam, which also serve simultaneously for energy supply can accomplish.

According to one Another aspect of the present invention is a method for Data collection provided. The method includes fixation a measuring module on a measuring object, wherein the measuring module to the DUT is adjusted and essentially no functional limitation of the DUT causes. Furthermore, measurement data associated with the measurement object obtained in the measurement module and the obtained measurement data in the measurement module processed and then transmitted wirelessly.

As previously explained, results from the provision of the measuring module in a special measuring object without significant restriction from its function through local extraction, processing as well as wireless transmission the corresponding measurement data a high degree of flexibility in the Data acquisition, especially for moving objects.

In advantageous embodiments, obtaining measurement data includes determining Measured values for one or more specified measured variables by means of one or more sensor elements. Thus, with data acquisition by selecting one or more suitable sensor elements, a corresponding task can be fulfilled, ie, for example, an alarm triggering or a corresponding indication in the event of non-compliance with one or more specified value ranges for one or more specified measured variables.

In further embodiments the processing of the acquired measurement data can be a data storage via a longer Period and / or data filtering and / or a threshold value determination and / or include a computational evaluation. In this way is a high flexibility in the processing of the obtained measurement data already locally possible, so that possibly the amount of data is greatly reduced during transmission and thus can be designed very energy efficient, as needed only corresponding results of data processing, for example as appropriate results are stored, must be transferred. To the Example, in typical applications in a surveillance situation, in one or more metrologically to be detected sizes the over- or Below corresponding thresholds are to be monitored, a corresponding signaling take place only when a corresponding event actually occurs, so that the usually more energy-efficient process of data processing is maintained while the data transmission only takes place when needed. Furthermore, the transmission can be done using energy-saving activities be done because little or no redundancy may need to be added to the data or larger amounts of data transferred to are, as already possibly the required evaluation completely in The sensor module may have taken place.

advantageously, the processing of the acquired measurement data is performed by an analog-to-digital conversion, which may already be integrated in the sensor, with a following digital signal processing, which in advantageous embodiments in Form of software is stored in a computer device. On This way, there is a high degree of flexibility, because similar Hardware structures for very different data acquisition tasks can be used.

According to one Another aspect of the present invention is a method for Provision of a self-sufficient sensor module provided. The procedure includes determining a size and a Type of sensor module for a selected one DUT, the size and the Type essentially no functional restriction of the DUT Attach the sensor module. Furthermore, be under Application of technologies of microsystems technology and manufacturing made of microstructures one or more sensor modules, wherein each sensor module comprises a plurality of components comprising a sensor element, a signal processing unit connected to the sensor element, a transmitting and receiving unit connected to the signal processing unit for wireless transmission of data and an energy source for at least temporary self-sufficient operation belong to the sensors.

By this procedure leaves create a self-sufficient sensor device in a targeted manner, so that authentic measurement data are obtained from the measurement object can. These measurement data can so for monitoring and / or for the control and / or the functional extension of the corresponding Be further utilized.

The used to manufacture the one or more sensor modules Technologies advantageously include the integration of two or three more of the components on or in a common circuit carrier, so that a high level of complexity and compactness at reduced manufacturing costs can. Thus, any measurement objects can be included in a cost-effective manner provided tailored sensor modules, based on the compact, modular and self-sufficient construction or type of function the cost of peripheral equipment remains low.

advantageously, also flexible circuit carriers are used for the production of the sensor modules. In this way, the shape and the mechanical Integrity during improve the application of the sensor module and the size further out. This allows sizes for the entire module of smaller 5 mm × 5 mm × 2.5 mm (without energy source).

advantageously, For the manufacture of the sensor modules passive circuit components and / or - if necessary - optical Components and / or micromechanical components in a single Circuit substrate integrated. This type of production ensures a cost-effective Manufacturing process at the same time great compactness and susceptibility to interference.

Further advantageous embodiments are in the attached patent claims defined and also go from the following detailed description further specific embodiments out. Reference is made to the following drawings, in which:

1a schematically a modular Auf construction of a sensor module according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

1b the modular structure of the sensor module in printed circuit board technology (PCB) of the embodiment 1a shows;

1c schematically illustrates the mechanical structure of a special sensor module for integration into a measuring object, which is a golf ball in this example;

1d schematically shows a block diagram of a sensor module with acceleration sensor and

1e schematically shows a data acquisition system with one or more sensor modules with corresponding peripheral components in an illustrative embodiment.

1a schematically shows a sensor module 100 in the exemplary embodiment, as a three-dimensional circuit board stack 101 , which in turn is divided into different levels, is provided. In the embodiment shown, the circuit board stack 101 in a first level 102 , which is also generically referred to as a signal processing unit, a corresponding analog and / or digital circuitry, for example, an amplifier, an analog-to-digital converter, a digital processor and the like, wherein the components of the first level 102 or signal processing unit with a corresponding sensor element 103 are connected. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor element is formed as an acceleration sensor, which via a corresponding connection cable 104 connected. In other embodiments, the sensor element may be on the board of the unit 102 be mounted or can also directly into the circuit board of the unit 102 be integrated. Furthermore, the board of the unit 102 a suitable antenna for a transmitting and receiving unit 105 , which is arranged in the embodiment shown in the second plane. In another level 106 For example, further components, for example quartzes or other passive or active components, may be provided. Furthermore, in this level 106 Also, an energy source (not shown) may be provided, or it may be arranged in a separate plane.

1b shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the module 100 in that a more compact arrangement is achieved by including substantially all electronic components including antenna devices of the transmitting and receiving unit 105 are arranged on corresponding individual boards, wherein the contacting of the individual board takes place via corresponding connection surfaces. It should be noted that the number, shape and arrangement of the boards is adapted to the purpose of use, so that the module 100 attach to a selected measurement object.

1c schematically shows the sensor module 100 for integration in a DUT 150 which is a golf ball in the present application example. As shown, the sensor module includes 100 the PCB stack 101 on which the acceleration sensor 103 is mounted, taking under the pile 101 an energy source 107 , is provided in the form of, for example, standard batteries or accumulators in button cell form. Further, a carrier 108 shown in which the individual components, ie the sensor element 103 , the circuit board stack 101 and the energy source 107 are attached so that these together with the carrier 108 mechanically in the golf ball 150 can be fixed. On the right side of the 1c is the fully assembled sensor module 100 shown, wherein for mechanical fixation of the module 100 in the golf ball 150 on the carrier 108 in this case a corresponding screw thread as a counterpart to a corresponding thread in the golf ball 150 is provided.

The assembly of the electronic component for the sensor module 100 is performed using established methods of SMD mounting and chip on board (COB) technology (chip and wire bonding), resulting in a compact and lightweight design 108 is provided in the form of a plastic housing or is made of another suitable material. The assembly of the individual components, depending on the design by known methods of microsystem technology done so that an even more compact design can be achieved. For example, in the manufacture of individual circuit boards, a flexible circuit carrier (foil) can be provided, or the integration of passive components can take place in or on the corresponding substrate material for the production of integrated circuits or on the substrate material of the circuit board.

1d schematically shows a block diagram of the sensor module 100 , wherein the transmitting and receiving unit 105 with a data processing unit 102 communicating in the embodiment shown from an analog section 102 and a digital section 102b is constructed. Furthermore, the acceleration sensor 103 with the signal processing unit 102 connected and the energy source 107 serves for electrical supply of all components of the module 100 , The illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary in nature and may be modified in accordance with the principles set forth above. For example, esp especially the energy source 107 a corresponding generator (not shown) for energy conversion having the properties set forth above.

During operation of the module 100 can the signal processing unit 102 . 102b corresponding signals of the sensor 103 process and the transmitting and receiving unit 105 for wireless transmission to other sensor elements or to a corresponding data receiving unit. In the illustrated embodiment, the digital signal processing section 101b provided, which allows a software-based processing, so that a high degree of flexibility can be achieved with the same hardware structure. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the digital unit 102b a corresponding control unit can be implemented that controls the operation of the module 100 can control. For example, in the module 100 at least one further operating state be set up in addition to the fully functional operating state in which the energy source 107 is significantly less burden, for example, by at least part of the transmitting and receiving unit 105 disabled, who is responsible for transmitting data. Furthermore, as already explained above, a plurality of different energy-saving modes can also be set up, so that a corresponding operating state can be set depending on the control configurations, which can also be set by external signals, for example.

1e schematically shows a data acquisition system 160 in which one or more sensor modules 100 are provided. Furthermore, the data acquisition system includes 160 in the embodiment shown, a data receiving unit 161 that at least temporarily with at least one of the modules 100 communicates. Furthermore, in the data acquisition system 160 a data processing unit 162 provided, which is referred to in the embodiment shown as a receiver / transmitter module for medium distances, and for example to display the measurement data and to initialize the modules 100 can serve.

When operating the system 160 For example, you can use one of the modules 100 , z. B. by the tee of the golf ball caused measurement data, ie acceleration values are detected and by means of electromagnetic transmission channels to the data receiving unit 161 be transmitted. In this case, a suitable frequency range can be used for the corresponding transmission channel, so that a reliable, yet energy-saving signal transmission is possible. For example, the data receiving unit 161 be arranged during the transmission of the measurement data in the immediate vicinity of the module, for example in the corresponding racket or at the location of the discount, so that despite very low transmission power of the module 100 a reliable data transmission is enabled. On the other hand, the data receiving unit 161 via a further transmission channel, which may be different in its frequency range compared to that between the module 100 and the data receiving unit 161 used transmission channel, data to the processing unit 162 so that the corresponding data is transmitted reliably and in the data processing unit 162 be evaluated accordingly. For example, standard transmission channels, eg. B. the Bluetooth standard can be used, which are commonly available in commercially available devices, such as PDAs, mobile phones, mobile computers, etc. Furthermore, also via the external data processing unit 162 an initialization of the individual modules 100 by sending out a corresponding signal. For example, immediately before the tee of the golf ball initialization done, so that the module 100 is transferred from a power-saving state to a corresponding operational state for data acceptance and data transmission.

In the data acquisition system 160 can have multiple sensor modules 100 be provided, which are then formed so that they form a self-organizing network. For example, a plurality of golf balls can be used, which store the corresponding measurement data after knocking off, for example, and then enable a corresponding data transmission, whereby golf balls, which are in the mutual influence of their transmitting and receiving units, create a corresponding network structure in order to ensure efficient data transmission , In this way it is possible, even with only a small range of the data receiving unit 161 supply a plurality of measurement data from different golf balls, for example, because the data of a distant golf ball via a corresponding communication path to the data receiving unit 161 can be transmitted.

Claims (59)

Autarkes sensor module with - a sensor element which is designed to output an electrical signal in response to a specified measured variable, - connected to the sensor element signal processing unit, - connected to the signal processing unit transmitting and receiving unit for wireless transmission of data and - an energy source for at least temporary au strong operation of the sensor module. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 1, which is formed is at least a first operating state and a second different Operating state, the first operating state a Energy saving state represents, in which at least one data transmission by the transmitting and receiving unit is disabled. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 2, which is formed is, from the first operating state in the second operating state through Initialization by means of a mechanical and / or electrical and / or magnetic and / or electromagnetic and / or optical Pass signal. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a control unit is provided, which is formed, a transition from the first operating state to the second operating state. Self-contained sensor module according to 4, wherein the control unit is formed, the transition by means of one of the sensor element to the signal processing unit to issue the issued signal. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the signal processing unit comprises an analog / digital converter and a digital signal processing section for processing of the signal output from the sensor element. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 6, wherein the signal processing a section for at least partially software-based signal processing from the analog / digital converter output digital data. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the sensor module has a miniaturized structure and produced by microsystem technology and microelectronics technology is. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein at least one second sensor element is provided with the the signal processing unit for outputting an electrical signal dependent on connected to a second specified measured variable is. Self-sufficient sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein at least the signal processing unit or the sensor as an integrated circuit is provided. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 10, wherein the integrated circuit further comprises at least a portion of the transmitting and Receiving unit contains. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the integrated circuit further comprises the sensor element. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, the further a carrier for receiving all functional components, wherein the carrier for mechanically stable attachment to a measuring object is formed. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 13, wherein the carrier designed for attachment to or in a movable object to be measured is. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 14, wherein the Sensor module essentially without functional impairment can be attached to or in the measurement object. Self-contained sensor module according to claim 15, wherein the Measuring object a moving sports equipment, in particular represents a ball of a ball game. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the sensor element comprises at least one acceleration sensor. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the power source comprises a generator that extends to the Sensor module acting mechanical energy and / or electromagnetic Energy electrical energy to maintain the function (ability) the sensor module provides. Self-contained sensor module according to one of the preceding claims, the dimensions of which do not exceed 1 cm ³ , preferably 0.5 cm ³ and especially 0.2 cm ³ . Sensor module system with - two or more self-sufficient sensor modules according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each self-sufficient sensor module is further formed, with the other sensor modules of the sensor module system to form a self-organizing network. The sensor module system of claim 20 further comprising a data receiving unit is provided, with at least one the self-sufficient sensor modules during operation of the system at least temporarily in Connection stands. Sensor module system according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the transmitting and receiving units of the individual self-sufficient sensor modules for signal transmission via electromagnetic signal transmission Channels are formed, and at least two different frequency ranges are provided. Sensor module system according to claim 22, wherein a frequency range is provided for external initialization of the sensor modules. Sensor module system according to one of claims 20 to 23, wherein in the self-sufficient sensor modules an algorithm for determining a communication path in the system according to a predetermined criterion is set up. Sensor module system according to claim 24, wherein the predetermined Criterion a shortest or indicates an energy-optimized communication path. Data acquisition system with - one or more self-sufficient Sensor modules according to one of claims 1 to 19 and - one Data receiving unit, which is formed by one or the to wirelessly receive data from several self-sufficient sensor modules linked to the specified measurand. The data acquisition system of claim 26, further comprises a data transmitting device, which is designed to at least wirelessly transmitting data to one of the one or more sensor modules. The data acquisition system of claim 27, wherein the Data transmission device for the transmission of Control data is formed, which is used to configure the at least serve a sensor module. Data acquisition system according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the data transmitting device for another wireless transmission channel is designed as the data receiving unit. Data acquisition system according to one of claims 26 to 29, further comprising a data processing unit associated with the Data receiving unit communicates to in the data receiving unit process received data. The data acquisition system of claim 30, wherein the Data processing unit via a wireless transmission channel communicates with the data receiving unit. The data acquisition system of claim 31, wherein the Data processing unit is formed, at least one initialization signal to send to the one or more sensor modules. Data acquisition system according to one of claims 26 to 32, wherein the transmitting and receiving unit of the one or more Sensor modules and the data receiving unit for energy-saving data transmission are designed. The data acquisition system of claim 33, wherein the Data reception unit is designed to provide energy in one or the other feed several sensor modules. The data acquisition system of claim 34, wherein the Transmitter and receiver unit is designed, at least part of the for data transmission required To draw energy from the energy supplied. Method for data acquisition with - fix a measuring module on or in a measuring object, wherein the measuring module is adapted to the measurement object and essentially no functional limitation of Causes the object to be measured, - Win of measurement data associated with the measurement object in the measuring module, - To process the obtained measurement data in the measurement module and - transmit wirelessly the processed measurement data from the measurement module. The method of claim 36, wherein obtaining measurement data Determining readings for a or more specified measures by means of one or more Includes sensor elements. A method according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the processing the data obtained a data storage for a longer period and / or a Data filtering and / or a threshold value determination and / or a computational evaluation includes. A method according to any of claims 36 to 38, wherein the processing the acquired measurement data, an analog-to-digital conversion and a digital signal processing includes. The method of claim 39, wherein the signal processing done by software in a computing device. Method according to one of claims 36 to 40, wherein in the meantime a power-saving state is taken, in which at least the transmission the processed measurement data is interrupted. The method of claim 41, wherein during the Energy-saving state, at least the extraction of measurement data interrupted is. A method according to claim 41 or 42, wherein the power-saving state is exited by an externally supplied initialization signal. The method of claim 41 or 43, wherein the energy saving state is left on the basis of acquired measurement data. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 44, further comprising contactless Respectively from energy to at least part of the operation to provide the energy required by the measuring module. The method of claim 45, wherein the non-contact Respectively of energy during the transmission of data. A method according to any one of claims 36 to 46, wherein mechanical Effects on the measuring object Energy gained for operation of the measuring module becomes. The method of any one of claims 36 to 47, further comprising: Receiving data in the measurement module, the received data being control data and / or measurement data. The method of claim 48, wherein at least one further measuring module is provided, the at least one further Measured object fixed and adapted to this, without substantially a functional restriction of the at least one further DUT to cause measurement data wins, processes the measured data and processes it Transmit measured data wirelessly, wherein the measuring module and the at least one further measuring module temporarily Exchange data. The method of claim 49, wherein the measuring module and the at least one further measurement module as a self-organizing one Network operated. The method of claim 50, further comprising transmitting of processed measuring data of the measuring module and / or the at least another measuring module to a data receiving unit. The method of claim 51, further comprising: Forming a communication path with the measurement module and one of at least one further measuring module for data to the data receiving unit transferred to. Method according to one of claims 36 to 52, wherein in the transmission the processed measurement data transmission channels with different Frequency ranges available are. Method according to one of claims 36 to 53, wherein the measurement object while the use is at least temporarily moved. The method of claim 54, wherein the measurement object a mobile sports equipment is. Method for producing a self-sufficient sensor module, the method comprising: - Determining a size and a Type of sensor module for a selected one DUT, the size and design essentially no functional restriction of the DUT Cause attachment of the sensor module, - Applying technologies Microsystems technology and the production of microstructures for Manufacture of one or more sensor modules, each sensor module comprises a plurality of components with a sensor element, one with the signal element connected to the sensor element, one with the signal processing unit connected transmitting and receiving unit for wireless transmission of data and an energy source for at least temporary self-sufficient Operation of the sensor module. The method of claim 56, wherein two or more of the components manufactured in a common integrated circuit become. Process according to claim 56 or 57, wherein for the production the one or more sensor modules used flexible circuit carrier become. Process according to any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein for the production the one or more sensor modules passive circuit components and / or optical components and / or micromechanical components in a Circuit substrate to get integrated.