Method and apparatus for data transmission over an inductive link for an independent cart system

A method for communication over an inductive link in an independent cart system, the apparatus comprising:

• transferring power from a power supply to at least one mover via the inductive link as the at least one mover travels along a track for the independent cart system;
• receiving data at a modulator, wherein the modulator is mounted on either the at least one mover or along the track;
• superimposing a modulated signal with the modulator on the power being transferred over the inductive link, wherein the modulated signal includes the data;
• receiving the modulated signal at a demodulator, wherein the demodulator is mounted on either the at least one mover or along the track and wherein each of the at least one mover and the track receive either the modulator or the demodulator;
• and
• demodulating the data from the modulated signal with the demodulator.

An apparatus for communication over a contactless power transfer system in an independent cart system, the apparatus comprising:

• at least one mover;
• a track defining a path along which the at least one mover travels;
• a modulator mounted on either the at least one mover or along the track;
• and
• a demodulator mounted on either the at least one mover or along the track, wherein:
• each of the at least one mover and the track receive either the modulator or the demodulator,
• data is provided to the modulator,
• the modulator superimposes a modulated signal on power being transferred over the contactless power transfer system, and
• the demodulator receives the modulated signal from the power signal and demodulates the data from the modulated signal.