投稿者: Fujiwara

What Is a Shade Sail?

A shade sail is a fabric product designed to block sunlight and UV rays, creating shaded areas. It is installed by stretching the sail between poles or using existing structures, such as house columns. The term “shade sail” refers to its resemblance to a ship’s sail used for sun protection.

Shade sails are widely used for commercial, industrial, and residential purposes, offering a variety of product options. Additionally, waterproof versions can provide rain protection.

Applications of Shade Sails

Shade sails are used as sunshades in a variety of settings. Since they can be installed anywhere with poles or hooks, they are versatile for use in commercial, industrial, and residential environments.

Examples of common applications include:

• Outdoor patios, decks, gardens, and pergolas at commercial facilities and hotels
• Public outdoor spaces such as parks and plazas
• Outdoor parking spaces and carports at RV dealerships or othe　locations
• Pool and barbecue areas
• Entrances to buildings
• Residential yards, decks, and eaves
• Playgrounds at parks, commercial facilities, preschools, and other educational institutions
• Smoking areas
• Sandboxes and private roads

The main purposes of installing a shade sail include:

• Protecting skin and furniture from UV rays
• Creating shade to lower temperatures and keep areas cool
• Preventing heatstroke
• Providing rain protection (for waterproof models)

Principle of Shade Sails

1. Material and Structure

Shade sails are made from highly durable, weather-resistant fabrics to withstand strong UV rays and wind when used outdoors. They are typically manufactured from robust synthetic fibers like HDPE (high-density polyethylene) or polyester.
HDPE is a crystalline thermoplastic resin with linear, unbranched chains of ethylene. Compared to regular polyethylene, it has superior:

• Heat and cold resistance
• Rigidity
• Chemical resistance
• Electrical properties
• Mechanical strength

For increased strength, shade sails are often made using double-knit structures. Some products use polyester base fabrics coated with resin to further enhance strength. The resin coating helps protect the polyester base from UV rays and other environmental stresses.

Stainless steel alloys, which resist various external pressures, are typically used for the hardware at the ends of the sails that attach to poles. The vulnerable edges of the sail are reinforced with multiple layers to prevent tearing.

2. Functionality

Thanks to the durable materials mentioned above, shade sails effectively block harmful sunlight while maintaining breathability to release heat. Some products can block up to 95% of UV rays, protecting the skin.

Shade sails come in a variety of shapes, including triangular designs that mimic a ship’s sail, and they can be combined to create larger shaded areas. This flexibility allows for installation even in areas with unique wind conditions, such as coastal regions.

Types of Shade Sails

Shade sails come in various shapes, colors, and designs to suit different uses, purposes, and aesthetic preferences.

1. Shape, Size, and Color

Common shapes include triangles, rectangles, and squares. Some designs feature curves or slightly indented edges for a more dynamic appearance. While the basic triangular shape is standard, combining multiple triangles can cover larger areas, forming square, hexagonal, or other polygonal shapes.

Shade sails are available in various sizes, from small 5-foot options to larger sizes around 30 to 39 feet, allowing users to choose and combine products based on their specific needs.
Colors like beige, gray, and charcoal are common, while brighter options like red, blue, and yellow are often used for children’s play areas.

2. Waterproof Options

Some shade sails are waterproof. Products made from high-density polyester (PES) with polyurethane coatings offer water resistance, tear resistance, and mold protection, repelling up to 99% of rainwater.

What Is a Debris Netting?

Debris netting is a mesh net used primarily at construction or painting sites to enclose scaffolding. Its main function is to prevent materials, tools, and debris from falling or scattering during construction work, ensuring safety for workers and the surrounding environment. It is also referred to as “protective sheeting,” “construction protection netting,” or “debris prevention netting.”

Applications of Debris Nettings

Debris netting is widely used at various job sites, including construction, painting, demolition, ship repair, and large machinery installation, as well as other high-altitude work areas. It is used to cover scaffolding to serve the following purposes:

• Preventing the fall of materials and tools during scaffolding work
• Containing debris, fragments, dust, water, and paint to prevent them from spreading to surrounding areas
• Noise reduction for nearby residents
• Protecting site workers from hazards
• Ensuring the safety of pedestrians and people nearby

Using debris netting is crucial for ensuring workplace safety, preserving the surrounding environment, and preventing personal injury. The mesh sheet’s breathable nature allows ventilation, preventing paint fumes from accumulating during use.

Principles of Debris Nettings

1.  Material

Debris netting is typically made from synthetic fibers such as polyethylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or nylon. These materials need to be fire-retardant or treated with flame-resistant coatings. The net must be uniform, tear-resistant, and durable, with no loose threads, warping, or weaving inconsistencies.

HDPE is a crystalline thermoplastic resin with linear, unbranched chains of ethylene. Compared to regular polyethylene, HDPE offers:

• Excellent heat and cold resistance
• High rigidity
• Superior chemical resistance
• Excellent electrical properties
• Outstanding mechanical strength

2. Edge Reinforcement

The edges of the net are reinforced to withstand tension during installation and are equipped with grommets or small eyelets for attachment. These grommets provide consistent strength and performance, resisting significant wear over time. When ropes are sewn into the edges, they are typically made from nylon or other synthetic fibers.

3. Lifespan

Debris netting is usually intended for temporary use during the construction period. However, it is manufactured to last approximately 3 to 5 years to ensure durability over extended use.

Types of Debris Nettings

Debris netting is available in various types, with widths of 1m, 2m, 3m, or 4m, and lengths of 50m or 100m, typically sold in rolls. It comes in a range of colors, including green, black, blue, white, brown, yellow, and red, allowing users to select colors that blend with the site’s environment. The mesh density also varies, with different weights such as 40gsm, 50gsm, 80gsm, 90gsm, 110gsm, and 130gsm.

What Is a Construction　Fence Screen ?

A construction fence screen is primarily used for privacy purposes at construction sites. These fences come in various forms, such as mesh nets made of synthetic fibers or rigid fences made of metal. They are also known by other names such as privacy screens, mesh screens, or wind screens.

Fences made from synthetic fibers are often set up using poles or pipes, making them easy to install. They can be stored and transported in rolls, are lightweight, and easy to handle. These screens can also be easily customized to fit different heights and widths. Designed to withstand various weather conditions and on-site demands, they are durable and robust.

Since these fences are typically used at construction sites, they are generally considered temporary or provisional fences rather than permanent structures.

Applications of Construction Fence Screens

Construction fence screens are mainly used for privacy, preventing unauthorized access, and acting as windbreaks at construction sites. They protect the privacy of the site and provide visual cover for heavy machinery. By clearly zoning the construction area from public sidewalks, they also help ensure pedestrian safety. Moreover, the windbreak effect improves the safety of workers at the site.

In addition to construction sites, these fences are used to conceal backstage areas at events and can also be utilized in various facilities and locations to maintain privacy and security.
Additionally, when company logos or advertisements are printed on the fences, they can provide promotional and branding benefits.

Principles of Construction　Fence Screens

1. Mesh Screen

Construction fence screens made from synthetic fiber mesh nets are typically crafted from materials like polyethylene or HDPE (high-density polyethylene). HDPE is a thermoplastic resin with a crystalline structure, characterized by long, linear chains of ethylene with minimal branching. Compared to standard polyethylene, HDPE offers the following properties:

• Superior heat and cold resistance
• Higher rigidity
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Superior electrical properties
• Enhanced mechanical strength

To improve weather resistance, these materials are often treated with UV-resistant coatings. The fences are fitted with grommets for attaching to poles or pipes, with reinforced edges for added strength.　Their soft, fabric-like nature allows them to be stored and transported in rolls.

2. Other Types of Construction Fences

Other types of construction fences include plastic or steel fences, as well as chain-link fences. Some are fully opaque, while others feature a skeleton design, with the upper half made of open mesh. In addition to plain designs, there are products designed with colors that blend into the surrounding landscape, such as green, or those decorated with illustrations of trees or yachts. Some fences also come with gates for worker entry and exit.

Types of Construction Fence　Screens

There are various types of construction fence screens available. For mesh screen types, a range of colors is offered, including black, dark green, brown, blue, navy, and gray, allowing selection based on the site’s needs. Some products also allow for company logos or advertisements to be printed.

Screen fences come in different shading levels, such as 85%, 88%, 90%, or 92%, allowing for selection based on the required level of coverage. Fabric weight and thickness also offer a wide variety of options. Dimensions vary, with heights ranging from 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, to 8 feet, and widths from 50 feet, 150 feet, 300 feet, to 600 feet. The mesh material makes it easy to cut on-site to fit specific needs.

For metal screen fences, steel versions and those coated with hot-dip galvanized finishes are available. Galvanized coatings provide excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Unlike mesh screen types, metal fences cannot be easily customized on-site, but they come in various heights and widths, allowing selection based on the site’s requirements. They are used in combination with various connecting fixtures.

What Is a High Shear Granulator?

A High Shear Granulator is a type of granulating equipment that forms granules by adding a liquid binder to powdered materials and agitating them at high speed. The granules are formed through the shearing action that occurs during this process.

As a type of wet granulator, it is also referred to by other names, such as high shear mixer granulator, high-speed mixer granulator, or agitating granulator. It can be used for a wide range of applications, from dry powder mixing to wet granulation. After wet mixing and granulation, the granules can be directly transferred to a dryer to produce dried granules. This equipment is widely used in fields such as chemicals, food, and electronics, with various models available for both R&D and production.

Applications of High Shear Granulators

High Shear Granulators are widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and electronics. Examples of their applications in different fields include the following:

1.  Food Industry

• Batter mixes
• Instant food products
• Seasonings
• Spice and herb mixtures
• Granulated sugar
• Compressed sugar tablets
• Health foods and supplements
• Food additives

2. Chemical Industry

• Plastic coloring
• Masterbatch production
• Powder blending with liquid additives
• Powder coatings
• Natural fibers
• Metals and metal oxides
• Ceramics
• Cellulose and nanocellulose
• Carbon and CNT (Carbon Nanotubes)

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

High Shear Granulators are used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of fine granules, granules for tablets, and granules for capsules. They are also used in the manufacturing of pesticides.

• Granules for oral tablets
• Granules for capsules
• Other medical applications include ceramic dental mixtures.
• Cosmetics Industry
• Eye shadows and eye colors
• Face powders

Principle of High Shear Granulations

1. Wet Granulation Process

Wet granulation performed by a High Shear Granulator utilizes the adhesive force of water or a binder solution to form granules. The process involves dripping or spraying a solution of water or binder onto powder, wetting it, and then drying the material to form granules. The spray method provides more uniform granules and is particularly suitable for granulating materials rich in additives like alginates, sugars, or oils.

2. Mechanism of High Shear Granulator

The High Shear Granulator consists of a mixer with impeller blades and a vertical chopper. The mixer blades lift the raw materials from the bottom of the container, creating a vortex, and causing the materials to flow and tumble, resulting in thorough mixing. During this process, particles are formed into granules through compression and collision. The high-speed rotation of the vertical chopper, attached to the side of the container, shears and breaks down the particles, enabling further granulation with uniform particle size distribution. Wet granules between 1.5 and 5 mm in size can be produced through this process. The wet granules can also be sent directly to a dryer to produce dried granules.

3. Materials Used for Equipment Construction

Materials such as SS304, SS316L, titanium, and duplex stainless steel are commonly used for the construction of High Shear Granulators, ensuring durability and cleanliness.

Types of High Shear Granulators

Various models of High Shear Granulators are available, with operation capacities ranging from 30L to 360L, and mixer speeds from around 105 rpm to 400 rpm.
Depending on the application, factors such as mixer speed, chopper speed, solution feeding rate, granulation time, and discharge control can be adjusted. Proper product selection based on functional requirements is essential for optimizing performance in different use cases.

What Is an Impact Roller?

An impact roller is a component designed to absorb the energy generated when heavy or irregularly shaped materials fall onto a conveyor belt, thereby mitigating the impact on the belt.

These rollers are typically mounted on devices known as idlers and installed at points where conveyed materials fall, such as hoppers or chute outlets. By dispersing the impact force, impact rollers help extend the overall lifespan of the conveyor system. Additionally, rubber impact rollers not only cushion the impact but also reduce noise and vibration associated with loading. They are also referred to as impact idlers.

Uses of Impact Rollers

Overview

Impact rollers are used to cushion the impact on conveyor belts and prevent damage. They are designed to absorb the shock from falling materials. With their high impact absorption capability, they reduce the risk of damage and abrasion to the conveyor belt, extending its life even under harsh operating conditions. Key installation points for impact rollers include:

• Loading Zones: Where materials fall from a height onto the conveyor belt
• Transfer Points: Where materials are transferred from different belts or different types of machinery onto the belt

Applications in Various Industries

Conveyor systems are utilized across various industrial applications to streamline production, packaging, and distribution processes. In the logistics industry, they are used for efficient sorting, loading, and unloading of parcels. In manufacturing, their primary use is for transporting parts, materials, and products.

In the automotive industry, conveyor systems are used on assembly lines to move car bodies between processes, efficiently supplying necessary parts for assembly. In mining, they transport ores from extraction sites to processing facilities, reducing production costs and improving operational efficiency. In food processing plants and packaging lines, conveyor systems are essential for automated transportation and packaging of food items. They are used in processes such as washing, heating, and packaging, contributing to improved production efficiency and hygiene management.

Impact rollers are effectively utilized in these industrial scenarios. For example, in mining, they are used to absorb the impact of handling ores and other heavy materials. In manufacturing, impact rollers are used on assembly lines to smoothly move parts and products. Additionally, impact rollers prevent slipping and smooth out vibrations, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of items during packaging processes. In the transportation sector, impact rollers aid in managing heavy loads, enabling efficient and safe transport. Specifically, they are used in baggage handling systems at airports and shipping facilities.

Principle of Impact Rollers

Impact rollers are manufactured by bonding a rubber coating onto a steel tube roller. This bonded rubber coating prevents surface separation and cushions the impact from falling materials. Impact rollers are attached to parts called idlers and used at necessary points on conveyor systems to mitigate impact.

Some impact rollers are equipped with rubber rings. These rubber rings, made from high-quality, durable rubber, enhance the roller’s impact absorption capabilities. The flexibility and elasticity of the rubber rings allow effective shock absorption even under heavy loads. This prevents damage to the conveyor belt and enhances its durability.

Types of Impact Rollers

Overview

Impact rollers come in various diameters and lengths to match the width of the conveyor belt and the material handling capacity. The required impact roller varies depending on factors such as the type of conveyed materials, conveyor speed, and load capacity. Selecting the appropriate product minimizes belt impact, abrasion, and damage.

Rubber-Coated Rollers

Rubber-coated impact rollers cushion transported materials, reduce the impact on the conveyor belt, and minimize operational noise. Some specialized rubber impact rollers include:

• Waterproof Rollers: Used in applications involving water or high humidity
• Extreme Temperature Rollers: Suitable for regions with extremely high or low temperatures
• High-Speed Rollers: Used on conveyor belts that operate at high speeds
• Low-Noise Rollers: Designed to reduce noise output in environments where noise control is essential
• Chemical-Resistant Rollers: Used in applications involving corrosive or chemically harsh conditions

Polyurethane Rollers

Polyurethane impact rollers are known for their durability, wear resistance, and low noise. They offer excellent resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and harsh environmental conditions, making them suitable for demanding applications.

What Is a Conveyor Pulley?

A conveyor pulley is a disc-shaped component used in belt conveyors to transmit power from the belt.

In a belt conveyor system, the conveyor belt operates as the drive pulley, which functions like a pulley to move the conveyor belt. There are various types of pulleys that play different roles, such as changing the direction of the belt or pulling it, and the belt conveyor operates through multiple pulleys positioned at key points of the belt conveyor system.

Uses of Conveyor Pulleys

Conveyor pulleys are primarily used in belt conveyor operations. Industries where conveyor pulleys are commonly used include:

• Steel and Coke
• Quarrying (Crushing Stones)
• Cement and Ready-Mix Concrete
• Asphalt
• Civil Engineering
• Thermal Power Plants
• Recycling
• Water Treatment
• Logistics
• Paper and Pulp

Additionally, pulleys themselves are used in various devices beyond belt conveyors, such as car engines, agricultural machinery, compressors, pumps, and office automation equipment.

Principle of Conveyor Pulleys

Overview

The main components of a conveyor pulley include the shaft, bearing, end disc (side plate), hub, and shell (outer ring).

The shell makes contact with the belt, while the end discs support it on both sides. The shaft rotates, transmitting power to the hub and end discs, causing the outer ring to rotate and move the conveyor belt. The bearing supports the shaft, ensuring it remains in the correct position.

Shell Processing

During belt conveyor operation, the conveyor belt and pulley can become misaligned. To prevent such occurrences, the pulley shell may undergo crown processing, where the diameter of the central part of the outer ring is made larger than that of the ends. Additionally, the surface may be coated with rubber (lining processing).

Types of lining processing include:

• Horizontal Grooves
• Double Helical Type (grooves angled toward the center)
• Diamond Type

The double helical type is highly effective in increasing friction with the belt and preventing foreign matter from entering. The diamond type features a larger rubber surface area in contact with the belt, enhancing friction and bearing larger surface pressure. Unlike the double helical type, it also easily accommodates bidirectional operation.

Types of Conveyor Pulleys

Overview

Conveyor pulleys primarily include:

• Drive Pulley (Head Pulley): Drives the belt conveyor
• Snub Pulley: Increases the wrap angle of the belt around the pulley
• Tail Pulley: Located at the tail of the conveyor
• Tension Pulley: Pulls the belt
• Bend Pulley: Changes the direction of the belt

Each type has its role, and selecting the appropriate one depends on factors such as the length of the conveyor and the type of material being transported.

Head Pulley / Tail Pulley

Belt conveyors have a head (drive side) and a tail. The pulley at the head is called the head pulley, while the one at the tail is called the tail pulley.

The pulley that drives the conveyor is known as the drive pulley, and it is generally the head pulley. However, in some cases, the head pulley and drive pulley are separate in belt conveyors.

Tension Pulley, Bend Pulley, and Snub Pulley

The tension pulley maintains the tension of the conveyor belt, preventing deviation or skewing. The bend pulley changes the direction of the conveyor belt. The snub pulley increases the wrap angle of the conveyor belt around the pulley, preventing the belt from slipping or sagging.

Selecting Pulley Size

The appropriate size of the pulley is closely related to the selection of the conveyor belt. For example, rubber conveyor belts typically require pulleys with larger diameters compared to resin conveyor belts. Additionally, the greater the tension on the conveyor belt, the larger the pulley diameter required.

A smaller pulley diameter causes the conveyor belt to bend more sharply. The sharper the belt bends, the greater the stress on the belt, increasing the likelihood of belt joints coming apart or detaching. If the pulley diameter is smaller than required, the belt may slip at the pulley. Larger pulley diameters reduce the bending degree of the conveyor belt, thereby minimizing stress and extending belt life. However, larger diameters generally increase the manufacturing cost of the pulley.

What Is a Bearing Temperature Sensor?

A bearing temperature sensor is a temperature sensor used to measure the temperature of bearings and detect abnormalities.

Bearings typically increase in temperature after the start of operation, reaching a steady state at a temperature 10 to 40°C higher than the ambient temperature after a certain period. If the bearing temperature does not stabilize and continues to rise abnormally, it indicates a malfunction that needs to be addressed. Bearing temperature sensors are used to detect such malfunctions early. Particularly critical bearings often use temperature sensors to prevent damage like seizure, which can lead to equipment downtime.

Uses of Bearing Temperature Sensors

Overview

Bearing temperature sensors are used to monitor the temperature of bearings in various machines. By measuring the internal temperature of bearings, they help quickly detect abnormal temperature rises, enabling rapid detection of malfunctions and prevention of accidents.

Uses of Bearings

Bearings are mechanical components used to support rotating bodies such as shafts smoothly and accurately. They are also known as bushings. Bearings are widely used in industrial machinery, automobiles, aircraft, railway vehicles, household appliances, and other industrial products.

In particular, in piston engines like diesel engines, bearings support the crankshaft at the correct position, allowing it to rotate within the engine block (main bearing). Diesel engines are used in various applications, including ships, power generation, and industrial uses.

Principle of Bearing Temperature Sensors

Causes of Abnormal Temperature Rise in Bearings

Bearings start to gradually increase in temperature as soon as they begin to operate, typically reaching a steady state after 1-2 hours. The normal temperature of bearings depends on the machine’s heat capacity, heat dissipation, speed, and load. If there is a malfunction, the bearing temperature will rise rapidly and become abnormally high. Common causes of abnormal temperature rise include:

• Extreme shortage or excess of lubricant, or inappropriate lubricant
• Improper installation of the bearing
• Insufficient internal clearance of the bearing or excessive load
• Excessive friction in the sealing device
• Creep on the fitting surface

Mechanism of Bearing Temperature Sensors

Bearing temperature sensors can estimate the internal temperature of the bearing by measuring the temperature outside the bearing chamber or directly measure the outer ring temperature of the bearing using oil holes. Some products can be directly screwed into the grease nipple mounting hole of the bearing.

The sensor mechanism for detecting temperature includes thermocouples and resistance temperature detectors (RTDs). A thermocouple is a temperature sensor that uses the electromotive force generated by the temperature difference between two connected metals. Thermistors and RTDs measure temperature by correlating material resistance with temperature. Thermistors are characterized by their ability to measure within a narrow temperature range with high sensitivity and small size. RTDs, on the other hand, can cover a wide temperature range with good linearity but are less sensitive than thermistors.

Types of Bearing Temperature Sensors

Various bearing temperature sensors are available on the market, with different operating temperature ranges, such as -40 to 105°C, -15 to 60°C, and up to 1200°C. Some products can sound an alarm at a specified temperature.

For diesel engines, bearing temperature sensors can be paired with lubricant oil sensors that measure the temperature of the oil rising to the piston crown, allowing for comprehensive temperature monitoring. Some products offer complete wireless capabilities through wireless communication and self-powering systems, and others are powered by lithium batteries.

Additionally, there are sensors that can simultaneously measure vibration speed, acceleration envelope, and temperature, as well as sensors that can communicate with tablets, smartphones, or smartwatches via Bluetooth. Many products are also equipped for cloud integration. Given their use in harsh industrial conditions, many sensors meet standards for waterproofing, dustproofing, fire resistance, and explosion proofing.

What Is a Wireless Charging and Monitoring Device?

A wireless charging and monitoring device is equipment that charges various devices (provides power) and monitors the charging status and battery condition without the need for wired connections through metal contacts such as terminal connections.

Wireless charging is used in a wide range of applications, from personal devices like smartphones and wearable devices to industrial equipment such as sensors, AGVs (automated guided vehicles), collaborative robots, and automated transport carts. The advantages include eliminating the need to plug and unplug power cables, reducing issues related to cable breakage, and avoiding connector wear and tear. In industrial applications, the absence of metal contacts also eliminates the risk of electric shock, greatly enhancing safety.

Uses of Wireless Charging and Monitoring Devices

Wireless charging and monitoring devices are used for wireless charging of various devices, both residential and industrial. Major applications include:

• Smartphones
• Wearable devices
• Industrial sensors such as temperature and pressure sensors
• AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and automated transport carts
• Industrial robots like collaborative robots

In particular, introducing wireless charging to AGVs allows automatic charging during downtime when the AGV is stopped for loading and unloading tasks, thereby efficiently utilizing standby time. The lack of metal contacts also removes the risk of accidents due to sparks or electric shocks, and reduces labor costs associated with charging tasks, thereby contributing to increased productivity.

Principle of Wireless Charging and Monitoring Devices

Overview

Wireless power transfer methods are broadly classified into two types: “radiative” and “coupling (non-radiative).”

“Radiative” methods use light such as laser beams or radio waves such as microwaves. These are suitable for long-distance power transmission but are currently limited to research stages due to significant energy loss and poor transmission efficiency.

“Coupling” methods efficiently transfer power over short distances and are the types currently being implemented. Coupling methods can be further divided into systems using magnetic fields and those using electric fields as the medium for power transfer.

Electromagnetic Induction Method

The electromagnetic induction method generates charging by creating an induced magnetic flux between the transmitting and receiving sides. When two coils are brought close together and an electric current flows through one coil, an electromotive force is generated in the other coil via the magnetic flux passing through the coils. This method is one of the most common for wireless charging due to its compact size and low cost.

However, the transmission distance is short, and charging cannot occur if there is misalignment between the transmitting and receiving sides.

Magnetic Resonance Method

The magnetic resonance method generates power for charging by resonating the magnetic field resonators of the transmitting and receiving sides. This method allows charging over longer distances compared to the electromagnetic induction method, and can transfer power over several meters. It is mainly being researched for charging electric vehicles.

Electric Field Coupling Method

The electric field coupling method uses electrodes placed facing each other between the transmitting and receiving sides. This forms a capacitor, and when high-frequency electricity flows through one side, electricity also flows through the electrode on the other side. This phenomenon is utilized for charging in the electric field coupling method.

While the transmission distance is short, similar to the electromagnetic induction method, this method is less affected by misalignment.

Types of Wireless Charging and Monitoring Devices

Various products are available for wireless charging and monitoring devices.

By application, there are charging devices for small devices like smartphones, equipment for transport vehicles like AGVs, and devices for industrial sensors. Additionally, wireless charging systems for electric vehicles are being developed, with demonstration tests being conducted for systems that transfer power non-contactly from ground-installed transmitting coils to receiving coils in EVs.

Wireless charging devices for industrial sensors may include features that allow real-time monitoring of temperature, pressure, signal power rate, sensor name, and charging level simultaneously with charging. Some products also come with waterproof and dustproof structures.

What Is a Solar Panel Efficiency Monitoring Device?

A solar panel efficiency monitoring device is a machine used to monitor the performance of solar panels in a photovoltaic system.

There are various types of products with different operating mechanisms, including devices that directly monitor solar panels, measurement instruments called CT sensors, and devices that directly obtain data from power conditioners. By using a solar panel efficiency monitoring device, it is possible to quickly respond to any issues in solar power generation, thereby enhancing generation efficiency.

Uses of Solar Panel Efficiency Monitoring Devices

The primary use of solar panel efficiency monitoring devices is to measure data such as power generation and provide information to determine whether the system is operating correctly. Some products, when used in combination with an internet connection, allow users to easily check the power generation status remotely from a computer or smartphone.

These functions enable effective maintenance and efficient operation of solar power generation facilities.

Principle of Solar Panel Efficiency Monitoring Devices

Overview

Solar panel efficiency monitoring devices mainly use systems that obtain data from power conditioners and systems that measure current values through wiring using measurement instruments like CT sensors.

Power Conditioner Monitoring Type

The power conditioner monitoring type of solar panel efficiency monitoring devices communicates with power conditioners equipped with communication functions via communication methods such as RS485 or TCP/IP to monitor the power generation status.

This allows for the acquisition of information such as the amount of power generated by each circuit (string) and the monitoring of power conditioner operation and faults. In the event of a power generation stoppage, it can also identify and predict the cause.

However, disadvantages include high installation costs, limited compatible power conditioners, and the inability to obtain data if the power conditioner’s communication infrastructure is faulty, even if power is being generated.

Current Measurement Type (CT Sensor Type)

Solar panel efficiency monitoring devices that use measurement instruments like CT sensors monitor by attaching the instruments to the wires that transmit power to the electrical grid, measuring voltage, current values, and power generation. CT in CT sensors stands for Current Transformer. Since it is attached directly to the wiring, it can be installed regardless of the type of power conditioner and can monitor each panel by installing it on each one. Another characteristic is that it is relatively cheaper to install compared to the power conditioner monitoring type.

Disadvantages include difficulties in pinpointing the cause of power generation decreases due to only measuring AC current values, making it hard to determine if the issue is due to abnormalities or weather conditions, and measurement errors compared to the actual power generation since current values are measured from the wiring.

Types of Solar Panel Efficiency Monitoring Devices

Various manufacturers offer a wide range of solar panel efficiency monitoring devices. Depending on the application, products are available for large-scale commercial use, such as power plants, as well as for residential use.

Some products feature unique functions, such as detecting user-defined percentage deviations from the average values within multiple strings and comparing power among strings, allowing for panel-based monitoring. This makes it possible to specifically detect and report individual panel faults. Other examples include:

• Residential products with easy-to-read measurement display panels
• Products that display self-sufficiency rates and CO2 reduction amounts in conjunction with home power consumption measurement
• Products designed for large-scale monitoring with excellent multi-site monitoring and cloud integration
• Products that are highly compatible with multiple devices such as PCs, smartphones, and tablets

Selecting the appropriate product based on the application is essential.