WO2002043991A1

WO2002043991A1 - Arrangement for effecting a transmission of radio signals

Info

Publication number: WO2002043991A1
Application number: PCT/SE2001/002382
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lars-Berno Fredriksson; Carl Fredriksson; J. R. James
Original assignee: Kvaser Consultant Ab
Priority date: 2000-11-29
Filing date: 2001-10-31
Publication date: 2002-06-06

Abstract

In an arrangement, one or more waveguides are used for transmitting information signals which are initiated in one or more radio equipments which is or are connectable to respective affected waveguides via a connection arrangement. The latter comprises, on the one hand, first connections allocated to the radio equipment or radio equipments and, on the other hand, second connections for further equipment or equipments which perform functions and which are different from the information-signal-handling part in the radio equipment. The transmission characteristics of the waveguide for radio signals or microwaves are utilized, which makes it possible for simpler and more inexpensive waveguide types and simpler installations to be used or constructed, for example in connection with a vehicle such as a passenger car, truck, bus, etc.

Description

Arrangement for effecting a transmission of radio signals

The present invention relates to an arrangement with one or more waveguides for transmitting information signals initiated in one or more radio equipments which are connected or connectable to the waveguide or the waveguides via a connection arrangement. The arrangement can effect of transmitting radio signals between first and second radio equipments or radio equipment parts through a space used by a person or persons, whereby reference can be made to a cabin or passenger space in a vehicle or room. As an example, a passenger car, truck, bus, etc. can be mentioned. The present invention also relates to an arrangement for a system, for example a CAN system, for means of transport, comprising first components with modules or nodes, which can communicate with one another, for control and/or monitoring of second compo- nents in the means of transport. Also included are third components which form or form part of one or more connections between the modules or the nodes.

In this context, the expression means of transport is to be understood in a wide sense and comprises, for example, land and/or water vehicles or craft, aircraft etc. Said Swedish patent applications also include examples of means of transport which are relevant in the present case.

It has long been known to use radio equipments in connection with vehicles and buildings and in this connection reference can be made quite generally to the patent literature. It has also been known previously to propose fixed connections between radio equipments and radio equipment parts . In connection with actual system, for example vehicles information transmission could be undertaken with the aid of microwaves which are reflected on internal delimiting walls in waveguides which are arranged for microwaves and standing waves. The internal dimensions of a respective waveguide (the internal space) are then selected on the basis of the bandwidths (frequencies) which are used in the system. Current waveguides are manufactured with high accuracy to provide low transmission losses, for example one or a few dB, and high powers up to M s . However, it is not obvious to transfer the prior art to an interior which is often characterized by an efficient use of space which is to be coordinated with a high safety requirement from the point of view of traffic. The invention also solves these problems.

In connection with radio equipments, especially in mobile data communication and/or telecommunication, there is a requirement for obtaining an effective and practical signal information transmission. There is also a need for integrating different types of functions in a vehicle which tends to result in increased complexity _, especially with respect to the electronic parts. Moreover, it should be possible to guarantee the electrical transmission functions and at the same time take into account that, for the rest, the construction is under strain with respect to the number of parts, reduction of cabling, etc. The invention intends to solve all or parts of these problems.

There is a need to be able to reduce the emitted radiation from the radio equipments involved and their transmission at the same time as desired feature if there are to be simple connection functions. The requirement for increased bandwidth and increased powers in the electronic systems should also be set aside. This should also be large mechanical length and insensitivity to interference if a predominant requirement. The technical construction thus to be ensured and the adjustments and complementary additions should be easy to carry out in completed installations. The invention intends to solve or all part of these problems . There is also a requirement to be able to reduce the emitted radiation from the radio equipments involved and the transmission between them at the same time as a desire for there to be simple connection functions. The requirement for increased bandwidths a desire for and increased powers in the electronic systems should also be satisfied. There should also be large mechanical strength, and insensitivity to interference is a predominant requirement. The technical construction itself is also to be reliable, and adjustments and complementary additions should be easy to carry out in completed installations. Several units in close proximity to one another, for example in a motor vehicle passenger compartment or in a room. There is a wish for simultaneously utilizing the space in the ether which provides everyone with access to a very limited bandwidth. In the said passenger compartments and premises, problems can arise with reflecting radio signals, so-called multipath, which are received with time delay which acts as interference. The invention intends to solve all or parts of these problems.

In various types of means of transport, for example cars and boats, it is previously known to provide theft-prevention functions. By means of the theft prevention, access to the means of transport is to be prevented, and warning signals will be transmitted in the event of theft or attempted theft occurring. It is also known that some parts, for example radio parts in radio sets, compasses in boats etc., can be taken away by the owner when the latter leaves or parks the means of transport.

The present invention is based on the idea of removing and taking away components when the means of transport or equivalent is parked or anchored. In connection with means of transport of said type which have an installed control and monitoring system, there is a need to protect complicated and expensive equipment and components and to prevent theft not only of the vehicle itself, but also of the complicated and expensive equipment, which is relatively easy to sabo^¬ tage and to remove. In means of transport of said type, there is therefore a need for effective and advanced theft prevention. The invention aims to solve this problem.

According to the inventive idea, the control and monitoring system concerned is to be arranged with a connectable and disconnectable unit, in the connected state of which a control and/or monitoring system which is complete for functioning exists and in the other state of which therefore a system which is not complete exists. In spite of the relatively complex construction of the system in terms of components and functions, said connection and disconnection function is to be capable of being arranged technically simply and non- critically from the point of view of the system. The invention solves this problem also.

In the types of means of transport concerned, there is also a need for it to be possible to identify the means of transport to one or more persons or owners who are wholly or partly to have access to the means of transport in question. The means of transport is therefore not to be usable if there is no identification or go-ahead function. The invention solves this problem also.

It is to be possible for a relatively large number of components or equipment parts to be disconnected and taken away by the person concerned. The invention solves this problem also. In boats, for example, problems may arise as a result of components and equipment being exposed to weather and wind (salt water, rain etc.) . It is therefore desirable to disconnect the unit with its critical components and functions for temporary periods. There is therefore a need, for example for winter storage and relatively long stops, to remove exposed sensitive components during the periods concerned in a simple manner. Problems associated with arranging a replacement unit in the system referred to in the introduction also exist. In the event of, for example, service and capacity changes and/or modernizations, there is a need for it to be possible to replace an existing unit with components and functions of a first design arranged therein or thereon with an outwardly corresponding unit with components and functions of a second design. The system is therefore to be capable of being updated or changed on account of, for example, engine exchange where the new engines require new control and sensing coordinates or control and sensing data. In some cases, it may also be desirable to exchange one control and/or monitoring system for another or to coordinate an existing system with one or more other systems at a later stage. The invention solves this problem also. The characterizing feature of an arrangement according to the invention is shown in the charac- teristing part of the following claim 1 The connection arrangement can comprise first connections allocated to the radio equipment or radio equipments and second connections can be arranged for further equipment or equipments which perform functions and which are separate in relation to the information signal-handling part in the radio equipment or radio equipments.

A preferred embodiment of the concept of the invention comprises, that the said further equipment or equipments performing functions operate with air or gas and utilize one or more waveguides of the said waveguides for internal transport of the air or gas. In an alternative embodiment, the said further equipment performing functions can operate with a liquid, for example oil or water. Moreover, the waveguides affected can operate with conventional electrical power transmission and utilize electric cables which are applied to one or more of the said waveguides. In a further embodiment, the waveguide or waveguides can be arranged in a vehicle, for example passenger vehicle, truck, bus and so forth or in a building. The respective waveguides provide a flow function for the air, gas and/or liquid which is selected in relation to the frequency at which the radio equipment operates when transmitting information signals. In the case with an electrical line or lines (conventional ones), these can be applied to the body on its outside or inside. The waveguide or waveguides are arranged to be able to operate with a low degree of effectivity with respect to the transmission of microwaves and the system itself and the associated radio equipments or radio equipment parts can have a total power loss of up to approximately -40 dB. In the case of passenger cars or other corresponding moving vehicles, the waveguides are arranged in the floor, chassis and body and in such a manner that the output of the information signals is situated in the vicinity of the speaker's or speakers' listening and speaking organs and in other electronic arrangements where information is exchanged in the vehicle or premises. In a preferred embodiment the waveguide is used doubly for the said microwaves/radio information signals and for air trans- portation in or for the air conditioning system in the vehicle. The microwaves and air/gas can be conducted away by means known per se with respect to the waveguide system as such. Grids which prevent microwaves from being conducted further can provide for the conduction of air/gas or liquid, respectively. Side outlets can be arranged for letting out air/gas or, respectively, liquid but are allocated positions at the node or nodes of the standing waves which prevent the microwaves from escaping through the outlet, etc. In a further embodiment, the radio equipments or radio equipment parts in question are included in a CAN system where the said equipments and parts can also be operated together with a higher-level system, for example the general data/telecommunication network. In a still further embodiment waveguide can be included as a structural mechanical part in a structure, for example as stiffening, bearing element, shaping element, energy absorbing element, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the novel arrangement utilizes the enclosing characteristics of the waveguide for transferred radio signals or microwaves to a significant extent. In contrast, it utilizes the transmission characteristics of the waveguide for radio signals or microwaves to a reduced extent, that is to say the waveguide can transfer the radio signals or microwaves with less precision or accuracy than in the conventional case where precision or accuracy are very prominent in the transmission characteristics themselves. The arrangement utilizes the possibility of reduced accuracy to make allowances in installation and/or requirements for quality in the construction of the waveguide, for example the surface finish, the material, etc. can be less sophisticated than in the case with conventional applications of the waveguide.

In preferred embodiments of the concept of the invention, the waveguides will be arranged in a vehicle in the form of a passenger car, truck or bus and first waveguides or waveguide parts will be allocated a route in connection with or in the lower parts of the vehicle. Second waveguides or waveguide parts can thereby extend in or on the chassis parts of the vehicle, preferably vertically. Outlet connections can have the form of or comprise continuous outlets in the housing of the waveguide concerned and the outlet is hereby arranged to provide a power output of 5-10% of the total energy which is present in the waveguide. Other outlets in the waveguide or waveguide part can thereby be arranged in connection with the position or positions of passengers and driver, for example in proximity to the heads/head of the passengers or driver, respectively. One aim with the waveguide or waveguide part is that it can be arranged or installed with a relatively low requirement for accuracy with regard to the actual transmission of radiowaves or microwaves within the waveguide or waveguide part. This entails that the installation can be done without special requirements for surface accuracy in the reflecting surfaces and that the waveguide or waveguide part can be allocated a slight bend or slight bends along their longitudinal extents. The waveguide is dimensioned in dependence on the bandwidth which will be transmitted. In the present case, the waveguide is arranged with dimensions which satisfy bands which are selected between 2.4-123 GHz. The waveguide per se can be integrated with another function in the vehicle in question. Thus, the waveguide can be utilized as an internal conductor for air, gas and/or liquid. Furthermore, the waveguide can be provided with a power transmission function, for example in the form of power feeding conductors being in the housing of the waveguide. The waveguide or waveguide part which can be provided with outlets, known per se, for the radio equipment function can be constructed for connecting a radio equipment part which can be communicated with or is included in a CAN system which comprises nodes which can be connected via the connection or connections established by means of the waveguide or waveguide parts and operating with microwaves. Alternatively or in a complementary manner, the radio equipments or radio equipment parts included can work together with a general or public telecommunication and/or data system, where the internal bit and trans- mission speed capacity differs from the external corresponding capacity.

Further embodiments can be found in the subsequent subclaims.

By means of what has been proposed above, different functions can be integrated in the same unit even though the functions are essentially widely different. Great freedom is offered with technically simple and unambiguous connection elements (outlet/ /slots, horn, etc) and the electromagnetic radiation emitted to the environment can be kept down, to low values. There is no special requirement for accuracy in the construction of the waveguide, which contributes to great simplifications and cost reduction in installation. The construction of a CAN system with all its advantages becomes possible in connection with a vehicle (passenger cars, trucks, buses, etc) and service functions for these. Especially in passenger cars and buses it becomes appropriate to use the waveguide or waveguides in the bottom plate of the vehicle and to branch off or arrange waveguides in the chassis or body parts, for example in the sides or in the roof, etc. What has been proposed above also provides in small or relatively small spaces effective internal telecommunication and/or data communication which, in spite of high power transfers, is extremely safe with respect to radiation for the person or persons who occupy the space. In spite of this, high bit and transmission speed capacities of the informa- tion between the persons and microprocessing equipments involved outside and in the space can be achieved. Well-tried technology can be used with safe and unambiguous components. The concept of the invention is based on utilizing a system, which in other environments is marked by outstanding production accuracy and tolerances, in a less effective way from the point of view of transmission. The requirement for less efficiency in the transmission means that other advantages of the system in question are utilized and, for example, installation and waveguide construction per se can thus be simplified. The essential feature which the present invention utilizes from the prior systems is the effective enclosure of the transmission function.

By virtue of what is proposed above, signifi- cant advantages are obtained owing to the fact that, in means of transport with complicated and relatively extensive and expensive equipment, the latter can be gathered together in a common unit which is provided with said connection and disconnection functions. The connectable and disconnectable unit can be designed so as to be easily portable and weigh relatively little. Significant advantages accrue in boats in particular owing to the fact that, when the boat is in winter storage, it is possible to take away said components and equipment which are not only theft-prone but also sensitive to weather and wind. Components and their connections are often exposed to a hard environment (salt water, rain, rust attack etc.) . In the winter, the unit can therefore be stored in a suitable environment at the storage site.

A presently proposed embodiment of an arrangement which exhibits the characterizing features significant of the invention will be described in the text below, referring at the same time to the attached drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows in a horizontal view and in principle an arrangement in connection with a passenger car, bus, truck, etc., in which the ventilation system and the radio signal transmission are integrated in a common waveguide or duct/ducts,

Figure 2 shows in a side view and in principle a system or arrangement according to Figure 1, in which certain variations are introduced into the equipments in question,

Figure 3 shows in a side view and in principle a waveguide with first and second connections for radio equipments and sources and outlets for media which are to be transported or moved in the interior of the waveguide, for example media in the form of air, gas, water, oil or another liquid,

Figure 4 shows in a vertical section a waveguide arranged in a building or premises/room in its or, respectively, their upper parts, Figure 5 shows in a vertical section an arrangement, which differs from the arrangement according to Figure 4, for a waveguide which in premises, rooms, etc., transfers radiowaves/microwaves and media in the form of air, gas and/or liquid, Figure 6 shows in a cross section a first exemplary embodiment of a waveguide construction,

Figure 7 shows in a cross section a second embodiment of a waveguide construction, Figure 8 shows in a cross section a third embodiment of a waveguide,

Figure 9 shows in a longitudinal view parts of a housing in a waveguide, Figure 10 shows in a side view and in principle an outlet for radiowaves/microwaves,

Figure 11 shows in a longitudinal view and in principle a stopping element in the form of a grid which prevents radiowaves or microwaves from being con- ducted onward but which provides for the conduction of media in question,

Figure 12 shows in a side view a reflector arrangement inside the waveguide,

Figure 13 shows in a longitudinal view and in principle a bend or curve in the waveguide,

Figure 14 shows in a longitudinal view emission of electromagnetic radiation from the waveguide into the environment,

Figure 15 shows in a side view a waveguide with integrated power feeding function, i.e. integrated power feeding lines, for a radio equipment in question, a pump for media, an electric motor, etc,

Figure 16 shows a horizontal view of a boat provided with inter alia an instrument panel and engines and also a waveguide which extends between the instrument panel and the engines,

Figure 16a shows a horizontal diagrammatic view of a connectable and disconnectable unit enclosing and provided with components, Figure 17 shows in perspective at an angle from above the unit according to Figure 16a in greater detail and assigned to said waveguide,

Figure 18 shows diagrammatically the arrangement of a component forming part of the unit according to Figure 17 in association with the waveguide in question,

Figure 19 shows in perspective at an angle from above the transmission function between the waveguide and one of the engines of the boat, Figure 20 shows in perspective and from above parts of the arrangement according to Figure 19, and

Figure 21 shows a longitudinal section in greater detail of the construction of the unit and its interaction with a CAN system.

Figure 1 shows in principle at 1 parts of a vehicle which can be a passenger car, a bus, a truck, etc. In the present exemplary embodiment, the vehicle is provided with a duct system with duct branches 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. The duct system or its various branches can be situated completely or partially within the vehicle or, respectively, completely or partially outside the vehicle. The duct system is thereby constructed so that at least one of the said branches, for example branch 2, forms or consists of a waveguide for microwave signals. The remaining branches in the system can consist of waveguides or can consist of transport ducts for other purposes. In the present case, it is assumed that the various ducts or duct branches consist of waveguides. According to the concept of the invention, the respective waveguide can be of the type which transfers or operates with microwaves or radiowaves. The waveguide 2 is provided with first connections for radiowaves or microwaves. In figure 1, the first con- nections have been shown with designations 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21. The said first connections can be of the same or different types depending on the information which is to be transferred to and from the waveguide or waveguides. The first con- nections can consist of connections known per se (outlet, inlet) . The waveguides also comprise second connections 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29. The said first and second connections are of the type that the connections for the radiowaves provide for the shutting in of the medium at a respective place in the waveguide system so that the media in question do not leak out at the outlet or inlet for the radiowaves/microwaves in question. Such outlets can consist of plastic discs, plastic plugs or plugs of a material which prevents the displacement of the medium but allows the input and, respectively, output of the radiowaves or microwaves. The second connections are of the type where conducting onward, conducting out and conducting in of the media in question can occur but where no exit or entry for radiowaves or, respectively, microwaves can occur in the waveguide. The first and second connections can be integrated per se and an example of this is the first connection 7 which can also comprise a second connec- tion 30 whereby the said function of differentiating between the radio signals/microwaves and the medium is carried out. The first connections can be connected to units included in the radio equipment which communicate in a manner known per se with the connection via trans- mitters and receivers and exhibit an antenna arrangement for this purpose. Thus, for example, the radio equipment part 12 can be connected to a radio equipment part 31, where the connection can be made via a radio connection 32 and/or line connection 33. The radio equipment part, in turn, can be connected via a radio connection 34 to a CAN system, shown in principle, which comprises nodes 36, 37, 38, 39 which are connected to one another via a connection, for example a digital bus connection or stranded series connection. With respect to the CAN system itself, reference is made to the prior art. The said nodes, for example node 39, can be connected to a mobile node or unit 41. The connection of the unit 31 to the CAN system is made via mode 36. The radio equipment part 12 can also be con- nected to the general data and/or telecommunication network (compare Internet, the Bluetooth system, etc) . The connection of the unit can be made to mobile units, one unit of which is symbolized by 43. This mobile unit can be connected to the public network, for example the fixed general network which is symbolized by 44. The connection is made wirelessly in a manner known per se via the radio connection 45. The mobile unit can also be connected to other mobile units 46 where connections of this type are symbolized by 47. The outside systems can be included in a service and/or surveillance system for the vehicle in question. The systems can also be linked to parts or all of the traffic apparatus or traffic apparatus part which the vehicle will operate in. Thus, the outside systems can be assigned to tolls, vehicle testing, etc.

The internal radio communication system which uses the waveguides in question can be constructed in dependence on the need or the desired features with respect to steering, surveillance, service, etc, of the parts involved in question. In the figure, the engine of the vehicle is indicated by 48. Different functions in the engine can be monitored and controlled in a manner known per se. As an example, a radio equipment part 49 is shown for a first fixed or moving part in the engine. The said first part can establish a radio connection 50 with the radio equipment part 14 which is connected to the waveguide system. Second and third fixed or moving parts in the engine are correspondingly provided with radio equipment parts 51 and 52 which are connected to radio equipment parts 13 and, respectively, 15 via radio connections 53, 54. The instrument part which, in figure 1, is symbolized by 55, can also exhibit moving parts which, via radio equipment parts 56, 57, are connected to the system via first connections 20, 21. The doors la, lb, lc and Id of the vehicle can be provided with radio equipment parts 58, 59, 60, 61 which, via radio connections, are connected to the outlet or inlet 16, 17, 18 and, respectively, 19 of the system. In this case, the radio connections are symbolized by 62, 63, 64, 65. Fixed or moving parts in chairs or seats 66, 67, 68 and 69 are also connected to the waveguide system. In this case, the seats have radio equipment parts 70, 71, 72 and 73 which corre- spondingly are connected to outlets and/or inlets 8, 9, 10, 11 in the waveguide system. In this case, the radio connections have been specified by 74, 75, 76 and 77. Figure 1 also shows directions for radio signals or microwaves which can be transmitted in both directions, i.e. in directions 78 and 79. The air can be transported from a medium source in the directions of the arrows 80, 81 and 82.

According to Figure 2, the outlets or inlets 24, 26 can also consist of branches. In Figure 2, such a branch is specified by 83. This branch, possibly together with other branches, can extend in the restricted direction of the vehicle at a level with the position of the head of a user (driver or passenger) 84. The driver or passenger can utilize a headset 85 which can be connected to a radio equipment part 86. This radio equipment part can be connected to a radio equipment part 87 via the radio connection 88. In the present case, it has been specified that the waveguide part 83 is to transport only microwaves in both directions 89, 90 but certainly media can be transported in this waveguide part if this is desired. In the horizontal part 91 of the waveguide system, microwaves or radiowaves are transmitted in both directions 92, 93. In this case too, air transportation takes place in directions of the arrows 94, 95, 96 and 97. Air or the like can thus be distributed uniformly in the passenger compartment of the vehicle in question. In Figure 2, a windscreen is symbolized by 98. An outlet for air 99 can be directed towards the inside of the screen. An air pressure source of the engine is symbolized by 100. Outlet and inlet for microwaves can be from the instrument part which is symbolized by 101 and different parts in the engine which are symbolized by 102. Radio equipment parts are symbolized by 103 and 104 in this case. Radio equipment part 104 is, for example, connected to a mobile unit 105 via a radio connection 106.

Figure 3 shows in principle a waveguide 107 with the dual function according to the above. First connections are symbolized by 108 and 109 and second connections by 110, 111 and 112. Figure 3 also shows a pressure source arrangement 113 for media in question, i.e. air, gas and/or liquid such as water, oil, etc. The said pressure source can comprise a pump, electric motor, etc. which is specified by 114.

In Figures 4 and 5, a waveguide with integrated functions in the form of radio signals/microwaves and media transport has been shown in connection with a building 114. A waveguide 115 is arranged in the roof of the building 116. In this case, the waveguide is also constructed with first and second connections for radio equipments or radio equipment parts and, respec- tively, media-initiating parts, e.g. an air pressure source 117. The waveguide can be arranged, for example, in the roof of the premises or room 118. According to Figure 5, the waveguide 119, 120 can comprise, for example, horizontal and vertical waveguide parts. In Figure 5, a pressure source which transports media, for example in the form of air, is specified by 121 and the air is conducted out into the premises 122 via second connections 123, 124. The directions of the air have been specified by 125, 126. A first connection for a radio equipment part 127 has been shown by 128. The radio equipment part is connected to a mobile or fixed part 129 via a radio connection 130.

Figures 6, 7 and 8 show different cross sections of differently constructed waveguides. In Figure 6, the waveguide 131 is constructed with a rectangular cross section with a width a and a height b. These dimensions of the waveguide depend on the bandwidth which the radio signals or microwaves will have. The dielectric constant of the material in the space 132 varies in dependence on the medium which is to be transported. The present values for the dimensions of the waveguide in dependence on the bandwidths which will apply to the radiowaves: Frequency Measurement a Measurement b in in mm relation (K) to (Fig. 6) a (Fig. 6)

2.4-2.54 GHz 92 b=a x K

5.8 GHz 39 K = 0.4 to 0

13.53-13.57 GHz 16.6

26.957-27.283 GHz 8.3

61-61.5 GHz 3.67

122-123 GHz 1.84

Established waveguide technology and calculating methods can be applied to the present system with respect to distribution, direction, dimensioning, etc.

Figure 7 shows a circular cross section of the waveguide 133 and Figure 8 shows an irregular cross section of the waveguide 134. In the housing material 135, 136 and, respectively, 137, electric lines 138, 139 for, for example, power feeding can be applied in or on the housing, for example on the outside or the inside .

Figure 9 intends to illustrate that the waveguide 140 does not need to exhibit a prominent sur- face finish on its inner surface 142 which reduces the cost of handling, installation, etc.

Figure 10 shows an enlarged example of how an outlet or inlet of a first connection 143 can be constructed. Arranged at the connection made a wall or disc 144 is of plastic or a corresponding material which is resistant to the medium 145 which is to be transported inside the waveguide 146. The disc 144 or the like is to have the electrical characteristic that it allows passage of radiowaves 147 in one or both directions. In this case, an element in the form of a horn 149 is used for sending out radiowaves 148.

Figure 11 shows a grid 150 arranged in a waveguide 151. The grid has the characteristic that it acts as a reflecting wall for radiowaves or microwaves 152 and at the same time allows conduction of a medium

153 which is transported in the waveguide.

Figure 12 shows a reflector arrangement 153 which reflects the radiowaves or microwaves 154 at a corner or knee 155 in a waveguide 156.

Figure 13 intends to show that the waveguides or waveguide parts can be arranged with smaller curves or bends along its length. In this case, the waveguide 157 exhibits a smaller curve 158 which causes a certain internal reflection of the radiowaves or microwaves 159. However, the system as a whole can accept minor disturbances of this type since the waveguide function needs to operate with relatively low precision. This in turn means that the installation is not critical in the vehicle in question. Choice of material, laying technique, etc. can be kept at an economically acceptable level in the vehicle. The housing (compare 135, 136, 137) can be given a strength which resists mechanical influences which normally occur with installation, vibration, etc. in the vehicle.

The waveguide 160 in question forms a very good containment for the radiowaves or microwaves 161. The waveguide 160 therefore emits only a very low amount of electromagnetic radiation which is symbolized by 162 in Figure 14. Very low values, for example -0.05 dB, can be expected to radiate out into the environment 163.

In Figure 15, a waveguide is specified by 164 and a radio equipment part, a pressure source, electric motor, etc. is symbolized by 165. The unit 165 will be supplied with power in the vehicle and this can be done according to the above by means of a line or cable arranged in or on the waveguide 164. The connecting part 167 of the cable 166 can be fixed in the connecting part 168 of the unit 165. The waveguide or waveguides can wholly or partially include air/gas or, respectively, liquid (water, oil, etc.) which is applied or not applied and which in the applied or not-applied case provides a first characteristic for the electrical characteristics of the waveguide or waveguides or, respectively, waveguide part(s) and in the non-applied or, respectively, applied case provides a second characteristic for the said electrical characteristics. With a certain change in the first or second characteristic or on transition from the first to the second characteristic or vice- versa, the change is sensed by indicating equipment.

An exemplary embodiment of an inexpensive waveguide consists of a body of foamed plastic which is covered with a metal foil, for example made of aluminium. The thickness of the conducting material must be more than skin thickness, for example ten times or more. The skin thickness for aluminium and 2.45 GHz is approximately 1.71 microns. A suitable aluminium foil thickness is therefore a few hundredths of a mm. The aluminium foil itself may be laminated with plastic on one or both sides. Another filling material than foamed plastic can be used with regard to different requirements such as desired cross sectional area, rigidity, production method, price, etc.

The internal dimensions of a respective waveguide (the internal space) are then selected on the basis of the frequency range f_L to f_H used in the system. (f_L and f_H are respectively the lowest and high- est frequencies and f_H - fi, is the bandwidth) . A waveguide and an air duct can have any arbitrary cross- sectional shape. Regular geometries such as rectangular, circular etc. are likely to be used for air ducts while most waveguides are rectangular. Both waveguides and air ducts can according to the present invention abovehave any arbitrary cross-sectional shape. The liquid/gas may change in a controlled way and be a useful indicator as mentioned. However, there is no constraint on the behaviour or deterioration of the liquid/gas but it does need to be fully known beforehand.

Referring to the above mentioned two-way transmission in respective waveguide, couplers and/or other directional components are added in known way. A two- way facility could be used in some systems. A waveguide boundary does not necessarily need to be continuous and can be a periodic metal mesh structure embedded in a dielectric sheet or self-supporting in air. This is applicable to sections of a car waveguide or duct system requiring a transverse flow of air for instance. All the drawings except Fig. 12 show abrupt 90° corners in the waveguides. However, it is always engineering practice to mitre the corners as in Fig 12, which could be seen as necessecity. A typical commercial airtight waveguide system with thick walls will leak very much less than -0.05 dB power. The actual leakage level thus depends on the waveguide construction. For well-made systems the figure would be lower. The percentage of power that can be arranged to radiate from a slot is much wider than 5-10%. It could be 0.1 to 90% for instance .

As far as the construction of a control and/or monitoring system, for example a CAN system, which can be used in connection with the invention is concerned, reference is made to the Swedish patent applications mentioned above. In the present case, one or more waveguides for microwaves are to be used for transmitting information (control commands and data) between the modules and the units and the components which are used in the means of transport and are to be controlled and/or monitored.

In Figure 16, a means of transport in the form of a boat is shown by 201, and a waveguide arranged in the body or chassis of the boat is indicated by 202. The waveguide in question extends between an instrument panel 203 and the engine or engines of the boat, which in the present case are three in number and are indicated by 204, 205 and 206. The engines concerned have been shown in the form of outboard engines, but the invention of course also functions for an inboard engine or inboard engines or combinations of inboard and outboard engines. In Figure 16a, a unit arranged connectably and disconnectably in accordance with the description below is indicated by 207. In this context, the unit can comprise the steering means (the wheel) 208 and also internal components 209, 210 and 211 indicated diagram- matically in Figure 16a.

Figure 17 shows said wheel 208 and said components 209, 210 and 211 in greater detail and forming part of the unit 207. The unit is assigned to the waveguide 202 in a connectable and disconnectable manner not shown in Figure 17. The component 211 can interact with or is connected to a radio gateway 211A which is assumed in the case shown to have an antenna 212 which extends through a cutout (not shown in particular) into the waveguide 202. Said component 211A communicates in the waveguide duct 202 by radio signals which are indicated diagrammatically by 213. The interior 202a of the waveguide can consist of an empty space or can be filled with some type of medium (compare said Swedish patent specifications) .

Figure 18 shows in broken lines the position of the component 211A, the antenna 212 of which extends into the interior 202a of the waveguide 202.

In the case according to Figure 19, the commu- nication 213 (cf. also Figure 17) is intended to take place with one of said engines, for example the engine 204. In the manner indicated in said Swedish patent applications, the waveguide 202 is provided with a signal output 202b to the engine 204 in question, in which context it is possible for the control and/or the monitoring of the engine 204 to take place via a wireless connection by means of radio signals 213a. The engine is provided with or connected to two electric conductors 204a and 204b, the conductor 204a being connected to a conductor 202c assigned or fastened to the body of the waveguide 202 and functioning as a positive conductor. The conductor 204b is connected to the material of the waveguide body, which serves as earth potential. A battery or direct current source is connected via conductors B' and B' ' to said conductor 202c and, respectively, the material of the waveguide body. B' is connected to the positive potential, and B' ' is connected to the earth potential. The respective engine (for example the engine 204) is provided with a directional antenna 204c which, by virtue of the directing function, is prevented from receiving radiation from any direction other than the cutout 202b.

In accordance with Figure 20, the unit 207 can comprise a waveguide part 214 which, in accordance with the description below, can be connected to the waveguide 202. The components 208, 209, 210, 211, 211A can communicate with one another in the CAN system

(compare also said Swedish patent applications) . The internal communication in the unit 207 between two or more of said components takes place via a BUS connection, the parts of which between the components in Figure 20 are indicated by 215, 216, 217 and 217' . Said connection parts can consist of wire connections and/or non-wire-based connections, for example optical connections, IR connections, electromagnetic connections etc. Alternatively or additionally, use can be made of fibre optic connections. The connection 217' connects the component 211A (radio gateway) to the BUS connection. Figure 21 aims to show an example of a connectable and disconnectable unit 207. In this context, the unit can be designed with or connected to a connecting part which is indicated by 207a in Figure 21. The connecting part can be arranged so as to form part of a quick-coupling function, the connecting part 207a having a front part 207b designed as a male part. In the quick-coupling function, the male part 207b can be coupled together with a female part 219. A locking part, shown diagrammatically by 220 in Figure 21, can be assigned to the parts. The locking part can be acted on by means of a spring function, which can comprise one or more springs, Figure 21 showing one spring 221 diagrammatically. The locking part can work with balls or retaining means 222, 223 which are arranged in guide grooves (not shown in particular) on the outsides of the male and female parts. Said locking part can be made in a number of different ways, and reference is made in this respect to the generally known technique for holding male and female parts together. The female part has a space 219a for receiving the male part 207b. In this connection, the female part is or can be arranged in association with said waveguide 202, parts of which are shown in Figure 21. On coupling together (completed in Figure 21), the male and female parts have brought the waveguide part 214 in the unit 207 together with one end of the waveguide 202. Figure 21 shows diagrammatically sealing means 224 of a shape and a material which seal the inner space 202a of the waveguide and the inner space 214a of the waveguide part, so that no significant leakage of the energy conducted by the waveguide arrangement takes place. In the figure, said bus connection is indicated by 218

(cf . 215, 216, 217, 217' in Figure 20) . Figure 21 also indicates a connection 225 for the power supply of the unit. The male part is provided with connecting parts 218a, 218b and, respectively, 225a for said BUS connection (CAN, LIN, RS485 etc.) and the conductor 225. The female part is provided with a connecting sleeve 226 for the waveguide part 214 and also with connecting sleeves 227, 228 and 229 for said wire-based conductors. In the case of optical connection, corresponding optical connecting means are present. Further modules or nodes 230, 231, 232 can be connected to the connec- tion. The module or node 230 represents other components which may form part of the system. The module 232 interacts via a wireless connection 233 with a system node or system module 234, which in turn can be connected via a wireless connection 235 to another control and/or monitoring system 236 of the CAN type or other type. The arrangement concerned, with the modules or nodes 232 and 234, is arranged so as to monitor the coupling-together function itself between the male and female parts. Only when an appropriate coupling together has taken place, can the go-ahead for full activity in the control and/or monitoring system of the means of transport be obtained. This go-ahead is indicated by il in Figure 21. The module or node 231 is an identification module. Only when the two parts 231a and 231b of the module or node 2 which can be coupled together with one another adopt a coupled together state, can the system be started or initiated for activity or setting in operation. Said parts 231a and 231b are shown in the uncoupled state in Figure 21. The parts are provided with a jack connection function with pins and sleeves in a manner known per se. The part 231a can interact with different parts 231b which are allocated to different persons who are to have access to the means of transport concerned. Said identification or identifications are represented by i2 in Figure 21.

As an alternative to the waveguide (s) concerned, other methods known per se are also pos- sible. Thus, for example, a jack insertion/removal procedure can be used. Alternatively, a suspension function can be used, the unit being suspended on hinges or guide elements which can be opened and closed depending on manual operations . According to the above, the unit 207 can be connected after disconnection. Alternatively, a second unit, which is in principle new or modified, of essentially the same design can be connected instead of the first-mentioned first unit. Alternatively, the second unit can be a supplemented or changed variant with regard to the first, second and/or third components indicated above, which may be relevant when the second components of the means of transport are changed (for example new engine (s) ) . Alternatively, it may be desir- able to exchange the control and/or monitoring system or to coordinate it with other systems, for example of different type. Digital signals, established on the connection, between the modules or nodes are indicated by i3 in Figure 21. In its disconnected state, the unit will in a very striking manner prevent all forms of theft of the means of transport and/or its components. The disconnectable unit can, using simple design techniques, be designed for easy portability, which means that the unit has an outer shape which is easy to remove or connect and also to take away. The unit is preferably designed with low weight, for example with a weight which is selected within the range 1-5 kg. As far as the sealing functions between the waveguides and the waveguide parts during connection and disconnection are concerned, reference is made to inter alia the Swedish patent applications indicated above. According to the above, the locking part works by spring force in the spring 221 which locks the male and female parts to one another in the coupled-together state. The locking part can be opened counter to the action of said spring and/or in combination with rotary movements around the centre line (coincides with the male and female parts according to Figure 21) of the locking part. When the parts are released, that is to say when the unit is disconnected, action takes place counter to the action of the spring force, so that the units 207 and 219 can be separated from one another. In Figure 21, a means of transport is indicated symbolically by 237, which means of transport can be of the type indicated above and in said Swedish patent applications. The control panel and instrument functions can comprise speed and distance measurement functions, control functions etc.

The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown above by way of example but can undergo modifications within the scope of the patent claims below and the inventive idea. Thus, for example, the unit can be exchangeable with another unit which is provided with the same or different parameters. Externally, the respective other unit corresponds to the first unit (in terms of external dimensions) . It may also be emphasized that connection inputs and connection outputs to or on the waveguide (s) are effected according to known principles (for example in the manner employed in the Swedish applications) . This also applies to the joining arrangement between the waveguides. In this respect, the figures provide only a simplified illustration (for the sake of clarity) . A high quality waveguide system will not leak much power, for instance 1 millionth of the total power carried might be lost to leakage in a 1 metre length due to junctions. That is 10^"6 or 1/10⁶ or - 60dB. A cheaper waveguide with junctions could leak more and an estimate of 1/10² or - 20dB might be appropriate. These estimates are very dependent on how a waveguide is made and the number of junctions. The estimate in this connection is related to length and junctions. The estimate of -0.05dB = 1/1.012 which is understood to mean that for 1.012 units of power travelling down the guide, 0.012 units leak out. That is about 1% or 1/100 or - 20dB. The latter expression is preferred. In an embodiment - 0.05dB with is replaced with - 20dB per metre depending on number of junctions. The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown as an example above but can be subjected to modifications within the scope of the subsequent patent claims and the concept of the invention.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS

1. Arrangement comprising one or more items of radio equipment and, arranged between these, one or more connections, in or via which information signals can be transmitted, characterized in that at least one of said connections comprises or consists of a waveguide for microwaves, by means of which one or more of said information signals can be transmitted, in that the waveguide is arranged with a connecting arrangement which has connections to a signal-handling part or signal-handling parts in the item or items of radio equipment, and in that the item or items of radio equipment and the waveguide or waveguides is or are arranged according to one or both of the following alternatives: a) that they form part of or can interact with a CAN system which, via the connection or connections, controls and/or monitors a function-controlling or function-performing unit or function-controlling or function- performing units, and/or b) that they form part of or belong to a vehicle, for example private car, lorry, bus, truck, aircraft, boat, ship, forest machine, etc.

2. Arrangement according to Patent Claim 1, characterized in that the waveguides are arranged so as to operate with another function-performing task in the vehicle, for example conducting air and/or liquid, and therefore have first connections assigned to the signal-handling parts in the items of radio equipment and second connections assigned to an item or items of equipment separate from the information-signal-handling part concerned and involved in said other task.

3. Arrangement according to Claim 1 or 2, charac- terized in that the said further equipment (s) performing functions operate with air or gas and use one or more waveguides of the said waveguides for internal transport of the air or gas.

4. Arrangement according to Claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the said further equipment (s) performing functions operates with liquid and uses one or more waveguides of the said waveguides for internal transport of the liquid (oil, water, etc) .

5. Arrangement according to Claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the said further equipment (s) performing functions operates with electrical power transmission and uses one or more waveguides of the said waveguides as internal and/or external carrier of power transmission lines, for example to the said information-signal-handling part of the equipment.

6. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the radio equipment or radio equipments use the waveguide or waveguides, respectively, wholly or partially for transmitting the said radio information signals.

7. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1-6, characterized in that the further equipments performing functions use the waveguide or the waveguides wholly or partially.

8. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides is or are arranged in a vehicle, for example a passenger car, truck, bus, aeroplane, boat, vehicle, forest machine, etc.

9. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides is or are arranged in a building.

10. Arrangement according to one of Claims 1-9, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides provide a flow function for the air/gas and/or liquid which is selected in relation to the frequency which the radio equipment or radio equipments are operating at in the said information-signal-transmission, i.e. in dependence on the bandwidths of the microwaves in the respective waveguide.

11. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an electrical conductor or electrical conductors are applied in or on the housing of the respective waveguide in connection with the outside or inside of the housing.

12. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides, with respect to the installation laying in the vehicle, building, etc, exhibits a relatively low degree of accuracy, for example a degree of accuracy which entails a total power loss of up to approximately -40 dB in the radio equipment system.

13. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides are arranged with first connections, for example outlets (slots) in connection with moving parts such as door(s), chair (s), instrument part(s), engine part(s), etc., on or in which moving parts transmitting and/or receiving units included in the radio equipment are arranged.

14. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the radio equipment includes a first transmitter and/or receiver unit connected or connectable via a first connection and one or more second transmitter and/or receiver units with one or more antennas connected or, respectively, connectable via a second first connection in the waveguide (s) , which second transmitter and receiver units can communicate via an antenna or, respectively, antennas with units provided with third transmitter and/or receiver units and with antenna/antennas, which units are more or less mobile.

15. Arrangement according to Claim 14, characterized in that a respective second first connection is arranged essentially close to the user of the respective third transmitter and/or receiver unit, for exa - pie in connection with the head height of line respective user.

16. Arrangement according to one of Claims 8-15, characterized in that, in the case with a vehicle, preferably in the form of a passenger vehicle or bus, the waveguide or waveguides form or are included in the air conditioning system of the vehicle.

17. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguides comprise one or more first parts which extend in a bottom structure of the vehicle or building and exhibit one or more parts which extend at least essentially in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

18. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides are arranged to emit in the space or room only an insignificant radio and/or magnetic radiation power through its or their housing, for example only a power of approximately - 0.05 dB, i.e. only an essen- tially minimal radiation into the environment occurs from the waveguide between incoming and outgoing first connections for the radiowave signals/microwave signals .

19. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that separating points between microwaves and air/gas or, respectively, liquid comprise plug or wall material in the material enclosing the microwaves, for example plastic, and/or a grid arrangement which prevents the onward conduction of microwaves but allows the onward conduction of air/gas or, respectively, liquid and/or side outlets for air/gas or, respectively, liquid which prevent the exit of microwaves by virtue of nodes in these being set at the outlet.

20. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides are arranged with mechanical strength.

21. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides wholly or partially include air/gas or, respectively, liquid (water, oil, etc.) which is applied or not applied and which in the applied or not applied case provides a first characteristic for the electrical characteristics of the waveguide or waveguides or, respectively, waveguide part(s) and in the non-applied or, respectively, applied case provides a second characteristic for the said electrical characteristics, and in that with a certain change in the first or second characteristic or on transition from the first to the second characteristic or vice-versa, the change is sensed by indicating equipment.

22. Arrangement according to Claim 21, characterized in that when a change is sensed, an activation or deactivation is triggered, for example in the form of lighting or extinguishing an indication lamp, activation action towards a change, etc.

23. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides is or are arranged to operate with one of the bandwidths of 2.4-2.54; 5.8; 13.53-13.57; 26.957- 27.283; 61-61.5 or 122-123 GHz.

24. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power output at each respective outlet (slot) in the waveguide or waveguides is between 5-10% of the total transmission power.

25. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlets arranged in the waveguide or waveguides are connected to units (nodes) in a CAN system which can be connected via the connection or connections established by means of the waveguide or waveguides and operating with microwaves.

26. Arrangement according to Claim 25, characterized in that the third transmitting and/or receiving units are included as mobile units in the CAN system.

27. Arrangement according to Claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the said radio equipments or radio equipment parts can operate in conjunction with a general or public telecommunication and/or data system with a first bit and transmission speed capacity, and in that the radio equipments or radio equipment parts operate via the waveguide or waveguides in an internal CAN or communication system with a bit and transmission speed which differs from, for example is lower or higher than, the first bit and transmission capacity.

28. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims and for transmitting radio signals between first and second radio equipments or radio equipment parts through or in a space used by a person or persons, for example a cabin or passenger space in a vehicle (passenger car, truck, bus, etc.) or room (building), characterized in that one or more waveguides effect the transmission and in that each respective waveguide is arranged to emit between its connections for the said equipments or parts via its or their housing only a small part, for example -0.05 dB, of the electromagnetic energy transmitted in the respective waveguide.

29. Arrangement according to Claim 28, characterized in that each respective waveguide or waveguide part exhibits a first characteristic or degree of accuracy attributable to the ability to enclose the radio signals or microwaves, a second characteristic or degree of accuracy attributable to the quality of the transmission or conduction of the radiowaves or microwaves, and a third characteristic or degree of accuracy attributable to the construction of the waveguide or waveguide parts with respect to the surface finish on the transmission surfaces, the material in the waveguide or waveguide part, etc., in that the waveguide or waveguide part is arranged to exhibit the first characteristic or degree of accuracy fully and to exhibit the second characteristic or degree of accuracy to a reduced extent to enable allowances or freedom in the provision of the third characteristic, with the aim of lowering the requirement for installation and construction accuracy.

30. Arrangement according to Claim 28, character- ized in that it utilizes the enclosing characteristics of the waveguides for transferred radio signals or microwaves to a significant extent and it utilizes the transmission characteristic of the waveguide for radio signals or microwaves to a reduced extent, that is to say the waveguide can transfer the radio signals or microwaves with reduced precision, in that it utilizes the possibility of reduced accuracy or precision to make allowances in installation and/or requirements for quality in the construction of the waveguide, for example in surface finish, material, etc.

31. Arrangement according to Claim 28, 29 or 30, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides are arranged in a vehicle in the form of a passenger car, truck or bus, in that first waveguides or waveguide parts extend in connection with or in the lower parts of the vehicle and in that second waveguides or waveguide parts extend in or on the chassis parts of the vehicle, preferably vertically.

32. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-31, characterized in that each respective outlet connection in the form of a continuous outlet (slot) in the housing of the waveguide concerned is arranged to provide an energy output of 5-10% of the total energy in the waveguide.

33. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-32, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguide part is arranged with an outlet (slot or slots) for radiowaves in connection with the position or positions of passengers and driver.

34. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-33, characterized in that the position or positions are situated in placement (s) for the heads/head of the passengers and driver, respectively.

35. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-34, characterized in that each respective waveguide or waveguide part is constructed with mechanical strength.

36. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-35, characterized in that each respective waveguide or waveguide part is constructed with a requirement for accuracy which entails a total loss between the radio equipments or radio equipment parts of approximately -40 dB, which brings about a low requirement for accuracy in the construction of the waveguide (s) or waveguide part(s), with laying in connection with a bend or bends, etc.

37. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-36, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides provide a flow function for air, gas and/or liquid which is selected in relation to the frequency at which the radio equipment or radio equipments operate in the said information signal transmission, i.e. in dependence on the bandwidths of the microwaves in the respective waveguide.

38. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-37, characterized in that the radio equipment includes a first transmitter and/or receiving unit con- nected or connectable via a first connection and one or more second transmitter and/or receiver units with one or more antennas connected or, respectively connectable via a second first connection in the waveguide (s) , which second transmitter and/or receiver unit can com- municate via an antenna or, respectively antennas with units provided with third transmitter and/or receiver units and with antenna/antennas, which units are more or less mobile.

39. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-38, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides are arranged to be mechanically resistant.

40. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-39, characterized in that the waveguide or waveguides is or are arranged to operate with one of the bandwidth of 2.4-2.54; 5.8; 13.53-13.57; 26.957- 27.283; 61-61.5 or 122-123 GHz.

41. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-40, characterized in that the said further equipment (s) performing a function operates with air or gas and uses one or more waveguides of the said waveguide for internal transport of the air or gas.

42. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 28-41, characterized in that furthermore the equipment (s) performing a function operates with liquid and uses one or more waveguides of the said waveguides for internal transport of the liquid (oil, water, etc) .

43. Arrangement according to Claims 28-42, characterized in that the said further equipment (s) perform- ing a function operates with electrical power transmission and uses one or more waveguides of the said waveguide as internal and/or external carrier of power transmission conductors, for example to the said information-signal-handling part of the equipment.

44. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet arranged in the waveguide or waveguides is connected to units (nodes) in a CAN system which can be connected via the connection or connections established by means of the waveguide or waveguides and operating with microwaves.

45. Arrangement according to Claim 44, characterized in that the third transmitting and/or receiving units are included as mobile units in the CAN system.

46. Arrangement for a system, for example a CAN system, for means of transport (land and/or water vehicles or craft, aircraft etc.) (201, 237), comprising first components (208, 209, 210, 211) with modules (nodes), which can communicate with one another, for control and/or monitoring of second compo- nents (204, 205, 206, 208) in the means of transport and also third components (202, 214, 216, 217, 218) which form or form part of one or more connections between the modules (nodes) , characterized in that the third components consist of or comprise one or more waveguide (s) (202, 214) for transmission of digital signals (i3) between the modules (nodes) , in that one or more components of said components form part of or form a unit (207) arranged connectably and disconnecta- bly in the system, and in that the unit is arranged so as, in a connected state, to bring about or allow adaptation or activation of the system and, in a disconnected state, to prevent or essentially counteract the adaptation or activation.

47. Arrangement according to Patent Claim 46, characterized in that the unit (207) comprises second components with control panel or instrument functions (208, 209, 210) .

48. Arrangement according to Patent Claim 46 or 47, characterized in that the unit comprises one or more modules (nodes) which are assigned to or interact with the control panel and instrument function of the means of transport.

49. Arrangement according to Patent Claim 46, 47 or

48, characterized in that, in a case where the means of transport comprises one or more engines (204, 205, 206) arranged at a distance from the control panel or instrument function, the unit is assigned connectably and disconnectably to a waveguide (202) which extends in or at the body or chassis of the means of transport between means (208) performing the control panel or instrument function and said one or more engines.

50. Arrangement according to any one of the preced- ing patent claims 46-49, characterized in that the unit is provided with first means for attachment, for example by means of a quick-coupling function (207b, 219) , a jack insertion and removal function, a suspension function etc., to corresponding second means in or at the waveguide.

51. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-50, characterized in that the unit (207) is arranged so as to have low weight, for example 1-5 kg, and easy portability.

52. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-51, characterized in that the unit is, at the point of attachment to the waveguide, provided with a sealing function (224) between the unit and the waveguide in order to ensure low power loss from the interior of the waveguide and the unit at the connection point.

53. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-52, characterized in that, in the case of a quick-coupling function, the means performing the quick-coupling function comprises a spring-loaded locking part (220), for example locking sleeve, which, in a state of being acted on by force, brought about for example manually, allows initiation of the quick- coupling function by virtue of the male and female parts therein being subjected to a state of being coupled together, in that the locking part locks the male and female parts to one another by means of spring force (221) , and in that, when subsequent uncoupling action takes place counter to the action of the spring force, the male and female parts can be separated, the unit being connectable, lockable and disconnectable in relation to the waveguide.

54. Arrangement according to any one of the preced- ing patent claims 46-53, characterized in that the unit

(207) bears a waveguide part (214) which, when the unit is connected to the waveguide of the means of transport, can be connected to said waveguide.

55. Arrangement according to any one of the preced- ing patent claims 46-54, characterized in that the unit comprises a means which can be connected to the waveguide part, for example an antenna-bearing part (211A), the antenna (212) of which extends into the waveguide part in the attached state of the unit, and in that said means can be or is connected to one or more modules (nodes) inside the unit via electric conductors (215, 216, 217) and/or optical conductors.

56. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-55, characterized in that, in the assigned connected state, the system is complete for performing the control and/or monitoring function.

57. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-56, characterized in that, in the .connected state of the unit, the system, for example a system module (234) (system node) included therein, is arranged so as to sense whether the connection of the unit meets requirements set and, if so, to give an indication or a go-ahead signal (go-ahead message) (il) that the system is complete and has the capacity to perform its control and/or monitoring function.

58. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-57, characterized in that the system comprises a module (node) (231) which is related to the system function, in that said module (node) forms part of a theft-prevention function, that is to say in the event that the module (node) is not present in said system, the possibility of said activation does not exist.

59. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-58, characterized in that a disconnected first unit can be replaced by or exchanged for an identical second unit.

60. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding patent claims 46-59, characterized in that a disconnected first unit with components and/or function of a first design can be replaced by a second unit with components and/or functions of a second design or a design supplemented by further components and/or functions in relation to said first design.