Dynamic RF coupling probe array

Abstract

An assembly for engaging a portable communication device such as a cell phone. The assembly includes a housing and a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in the housing. At least some of the coupling probes are selectively activatable. A processor and memory are programmed to selectively activate or deactivate at least some of the RF coupling probes. RF coupling probes electromagnetically couple with one or more internal antennas of the portable communication device. A particular RF coupling probe is selectively activated based on a strength of a signal received by the particular RF coupling probe from an internal antenna of the portable communication device. At least some of the coupling probes have a multi-frequency band resonance enabling plural frequency band selectivity, including at least one of 600, 700, 850, 900, 1800, 1900, 2100, 2300, and 2600 MHz, 5G (1 to 6Ghz) and 5G (24 to 40GHZ).

Description

Dynamic RF Coupling Probe ArrayCopyright Statement

[0001] This patent document contains material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the reproduction of this patent document or any related materials in the files of the United States Patent and Trademark Office but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application no. 63 / 540,026, filed September 22, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0003] The following U.S. patents and published patent applications are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes:(a) U.S. Patent No. 9,124,679, titled "Sleeve With Electronic Extensions For A Cell Phone."(b) U.S. Pat. No. 8,248,314, titled “Inductively coupled signal booster for a wireless communication device and in combination therewith.”(c) U.S. Pat. No. 8,559,869, titled “Smart channel selective repeater.”(d) U.S. Pat. No. 8,560,029, titled “Isolation enhancement between planar antenna elements.”(e) U.S. Patent No. 9,832,295, titled "Sleeve With Electronic Extensions For A Cell Phone."(f) U.S. Patent Publication 2017-0026091 Al, titled "Automatic RF Antenna Switching For An Electronic Communication Device."(g) U.S. Patent Publication 2020-0169338 Al, titled "Automatic Signal Strength Indicator And Automatic Antenna Switch."Field of the Invention

[0004] Aspects of this invention relate generally to antennas and, more particularly, to automatic RF switching for an electronic communications device.Background

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 9,124,679 describes a cellular signal-boosting device in the form of a passively re-radiating cell phone sleeve assembly capable of receiving a nested cell phone and providing signal-boosting capabilities. As described in U.S. Patent No. 9,124,679, a cellular signal-boosting device couples with one or more cell phone antennae. However, the position of the cell phone's antenna(e) must be known when the device is manufactured so that the probes can be positioned for accurate NFC (near-field coupling) with the phones' antennas. If manufacturers move an internal antenna in different phone models, the boosting device may not connect well or at all.

[0006] It is desirable and an object hereof to improve the coupling between a cellular signal-boosting device and a cell phone.

[0007] It is also desirable and a further object hereof to provide a cellular signal -boosting unit that is connectable and couplable to different cell phone models and configurations.Summary

[0008] The present invention is specified in the claims and the description below. Preferred embodiments are particularly specified in the dependent claims and the description of various embodiments.

[0009] A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that, in operation, cause or causes the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including instructions that, when executed by a data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the actions.

[0010] One general aspect includes an assembly for engaging a portable communication device. The assembly includes (a) a housing. The assembly also includes (b) a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in the housing, where at least some of the coupling probes are selectively activatable. The assembly also includes (c) hardware, including a processor and memory, programmed to selectively activate or deactivate at least some of the RF coupling probes.

[0011] Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

[0012] Implementations may include one or more of the following features, alone or in combination: The assembly where at least some of the RF coupling probes electromagnetically couple with one or more internal antennas of the portable communication device and where a particular RF coupling probe is selectively activated based on a strength of a signal received by the particular RF coupling probe from an internal antenna of the portable communication device. The electromagnetic coupling may include near-field coupling. The assembly may include (d) an assembly antenna and (e) an embedded electrical circuit within the housing. The electrical circuit may include a signal amplifying circuit connecting the assembly antenna and the coupling probes, the amplifier amplifying signals between the assembly antenna and the coupling probes. The electrical circuit is configured to conduct a captured electromagnetic signal from the coupling probe to the assembly antenna, where conducting the captured electromagnetic signal to the assembly antenna does not include actively amplifying the captured electromagnetic signal. The plurality of planar RF coupling probes may include between 2 and 10 coupling probes. The plurality of planar RF coupling probes may include a one-dimensional array of probes. The plurality of planar RF coupling probes may include a two-dimensional array of probes. The plurality of planar RF coupling probes may include one or more rectangular probes. The plurality of planar RF coupling probes may include one or more circular or oval probes. Each planar RF coupling probe has a multilayer planar construction.

[0013] At least some of the coupling probes have a multi -frequency band resonance enabling plural frequency band selectivity, including at least one of 600, 700, 850, 900, 1800, 1900, 2100, 2300, and 2600 MHz, 5G (1 to 6Ghz) and 5G (24 to 40GHZ). The assembly is constructed and adapted to provide power from the at least one battery to the portable communication device. The assembly may include one or more magnetic alignment components constructed and adapted to align with magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device when one or more magnetic alignment components on the assembly are magnetically aligned with corresponding magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device, at least some coupling probes of the plurality of planar radio frequency coupling probes are in electromagnetic contact with at least one antenna of the portable communication device. One or more magnetic alignment components on the assembly and the magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device are part of an electronic charging system. The assembly charges the portable communication device via the electronic charging system. The portable communication device is a cellphone. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0014] Another general aspect includes a method for selectively activating or deactivating at least some of the RF coupling probes.

[0015] Implementations may include one or more of the following features: The method where individual RF coupling probes are activated or deactivated based on antenna signal received at the RF coupling probes from one or more antennas of the portable communication device.

[0016] The above features and additional details of the invention are described further in the examples herein, which are intended to illustrate the invention further but not limit its scope in any way.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] Objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification.

[0018] FIG 1 is a block diagram depicting aspects of a system according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0019] FIGS. 2A - 2D depict aspects of an exemplary portable signal-boosting device according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0020] FIG. 3 depicts aspects of a portable communications device;

[0021] FIGS. 4A - 4D depict aspects of exemplary portable signal-boosting devices according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0022] FIG. 5A is an example sectional view showing a portion of a portable communication apparatus above a portion of the signal-boosting device, according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0023] FIGS. 5B - 5C depict exemplary RF probes according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0024] FIGS. 6A-6K depict exemplary configurations of RF coupling probes in probe arrays or sub-arrays, according to exemplary embodiments hereof;

[0025] FIGS. 7A - 71 depict exemplary configurations of RF coupling probes and antennas, according to exemplary embodiments hereof; and

[0026] FIGS. 8A-8D are flowcharts of exemplary configuration of dynamic probe arrays according to exemplary embodiments hereof.Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

[0027] As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings unless expressly stated otherwise:

[0028] LNA means low-noise amplifier.

[0029] RF means radio frequency.

[0030] The term “mechanism,” as used herein, refers to any device(s), process(es), service(s), or combination thereof. A mechanism may be mechanical or electrical, or a combination thereof. A mechanism may be integrated into a single device, or it may be distributed over multiple devices. The various components of a mechanism may be colocated or distributed. The mechanism may be formed from other mechanisms. In general, as used herein, the term “mechanism” may thus be considered shorthand for the term device(s) and / or process(es) and / or service(s).Description

[0031] FIG 1 is a block diagram depicting aspects of a system 100 according to exemplary embodiments hereof.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, an electronic communication device (e.g., a cell phone (CP)) 102 is connected (as described below) to a signal-boosting unit 104 (also referred to herein as a signal-boosting or signal amplifying unit or device).

[0033] The electronic communication device 102 may be a conventional cell phone, including cellular communications mechanisms (not shown), antenna(e) 106, and a power system 108, including one or more batteries 110. The electronic communication device 102 preferably includes one or more processors 112 and memory 114. The processor(s) 112 may execute programs stored in and / or using the memory 114 to effectuate the operation of the electronic communication device 102. The electronic communication device 102 typically runs manufacturer-provided programs (e.g., stored as firmware) to operate the device. The electronic communication device 102 may also support user-provided or externally providedsoftware applications (sometimes called “apps.”). Embodiments hereof include application (App) 116.

[0034] The device 102 preferably includes a low-power, short-range communication mechanism 118 (e.g., Bluetooth mechanism). As is well known, Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances.

[0035] The electronic communication device 102 typically provides one or more connectors 120 supporting, e.g., battery charging and the like. The connectors 120 may include external wired and / or magnetic connectors (e.g., Magsafe). In some cases, using, e.g., magnetic connectors, the battery 110 may be charged using an inductive charging mechanism connecting to an external inductive charger. In some cases, the battery(ies) 110 in the device 102 may be used to charge another device (this may sometimes be referred to as reverse charging).

[0036] The signal-boosting unit 104 may be a passively re-radiating assembly capable of connecting to a cell phone and providing signal-boosting capabilities to the connected cell phone. Various manners of connection may be used to connect the signal-boosting unit 104 with a cell phone 102. In some cases, the signal-boosting unit 104 may be a passively reradiating cell phone sleeve assembly capable of receiving a nested cell phone and providing signal-boosting capabilities, e.g., as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,124,679, the entire contents of which have been fully incorporated herein for all purposes. In some cases, e.g., as described below, the signal-boosting unit may also (or instead) use a magnetic connector to connect to a cell phone.

[0037] In embodiments hereof, the signal-boosting unit 104 includes an external connector mechanism 122 that allows the unit 104 to be electrically and operatively connected to the device 102 via the one or more external connectors 120 of the device 102. The connector(s) 120 and the connector mechanism 122 may be USB connectors or, in the case of some iPhones, Apple Inc.’s proprietary Lightning computer bus and power connector.

[0038] The signal-boosting unit 104 includes at least one receiving or donor antenna 124 and two or more probe antennas or RF coupling probes 126. At least some of the RF coupling probe(s) 126 is / are preferably positioned in the unit 104 such that when a cell phone (CP) or the like is in the unit 104, the RF coupling probe(s) 126 is / are substantially adjacent at least one antenna 106 of the cell phone. In this way, the adjacent RF coupling probe(s) 126 may electromagnetically couple with the respective antenna(s) 106. As should be appreciated, a mobile device such as a cell phone may have more than one antenna.

[0039] The RF coupling probe(s) 126 may be formed, e.g., as described in U.S. Patent Publication 20140199950 and / or U.S. Pat. No. 8,248,314.

[0040] As explained below, the RF coupling probes 126 comprise or form a dynamically configurable probe array, and one or more RF coupling probes 126 in the probe array may be selected for "optimal" coupling with the corresponding cell phone's antenna(e) 106. Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize and appreciate, upon reading this description, that the position of the selected RF coupling probes 126 in the unit’s assembly will depend on the position(s) of the antenna(s) of the mobile device 102 and the RF coupling probes' connection(s) with the mobile device's antenna(e) 106.

[0041] The unit 104 preferably includes amplifier circuitry 128, providing a low-noise amplifier (LNA). The LNA may be a signal amplifier mechanism, e.g., as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,832,295. The unit 104 preferably also includes firmware 130 to control amplification of an RF signal to / from the cell phone and to control the dynamic selection of RF coupling probes 126 in the probe array(s).

[0042] The unit 104 may include one or more batteries 132 to provide power to the unit 104 itself. In some cases, the batteries 132 may provide backup power to a connected device 102 (e.g., via the external connector 122).

[0043] One or more external buttons 136 on the unit 104 may be used to selectively control the signal amplifier circuitry 128 and the backup battery power supply from battery 132

[0044] The unit 104 preferably also includes a low-power, short-range communication mechanism 134 (e.g., Bluetooth mechanism), allowing the unit to communicate with a nearby or attached cell phone (CP) 102. As should be appreciated, the communication mechanism 134 should be able to communicate with the phone’s communication mechanism 118 (e.g., they should both be Bluetooth mechanisms). Other forms of connection between the phone 102 and the unit 104 may be used (e.g., connection through USB or Apple Lightning will also work).

[0045] The amplification circuitry 128 effectively amplifies the signal to the cell phone 102. A user may selectively control the amplification circuitry 128 operation via one or more switches / buttons 136 on the unit. In addition, as described here, the amplification circuitry 128 operation may be selectively controlled based on information provided by an application 116 running on the cell phone 102.

[0046] FIG. 1 provides a logical description of the components of the cell phone 102 and the unit 104. As should be appreciated, the components are not necessarily shown in theiractual locations relative to the device or each other. For example, as described in greater detail below, the cell phone antennae 106 are typically at the lower part of the cell phone 102, and the corresponding RF coupling probes 126 will typically be positioned at corresponding lower parts of the unit 104.

[0047] The unit 104 includes a microcontroller (MCU 140), including one or more processors, memory, timers, registers, etc.

[0048] An exemplary signal-boosting unit 104 for an Apple iPhone is shown in FIGS. 2A-2B (showing front and rear perspective views thereof, respectively). As shown in FIG. 2B, the unit 104 includes two buttons 136-1 and 136-2 (corresponding to switches / buttons 136 in FIG. 1), for the amplification circuitry 128 operations.

[0049] FIGS. 2C and 2D show the positions of the donor antenna 124, the LNA (amplifier circuitry 128), and the RF coupling probes 126 (the probe array) in the unit 104 of FIGS. 2A-2B. FIG. 2C shows the battery and FIG. 2D omits the battery to show the charging coil.Inductive Charging

[0050] In some cases, the cell phone's battery 110 may be charged using an inductive charging mechanism connecting to an external inductive charger. To this end, in some cases, the connectors 120 of the electronic communication device 102 may include external magnetic connectors and related alignment components (e.g., MagSafe®).

[0051] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary portable communication apparatus 102-A (e.g., a version of electronic communication device 102 such as a mobile or cell phone or the like), including an inductive charging mechanism connecting to an external inductive charger.

[0052] Magnetic alignment components 304 and systems are used to establish and maintain a desired alignment between two (or more) devices, e.g., to enable efficient wireless power transfer between the devices. Examples of the magnetic alignment components 304 are described in U.S. patent No. 11,710,988, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0053] An exemplary portable signal-boosting device - a signal-boosting device 104-A is shown in FIG. 4A. The signal-boosting device 104-A corresponds, e.g., to a signal-boosting unit 104, though some components are omitted from the drawing for this explanation. The signal-boosting device 104-A includes one or more battery(ies) 132-A (corresponding to the battery(ies) 132 in FIG. 1) and magnetic components 404 that allow the charging components 406 of signal-boosting device 104-A to align with thecorresponding charging components 306 of the portable communication apparatus 102-A to support wireless power transfer between the devices and thereby charge the battery 110-A of the portable communication apparatus 102-A. As noted above, if the portable communication apparatus 102-A supports reverse charging, then the battery(ies) 110-A of the portable communication apparatus 102-A may be used to charge the battery(ies) 132-A of the signal-boosting unit 104-A.

[0054] The portable communication apparatus 102-A may also include an external connector 308 to provide external power and connection to other components of the portable communication apparatus 102-A. For example, the connector 308 may be a USB-C connector or an Apple Lightning connector.

[0055] The signal-boosting device 104-A may also include an external connector 408 to provide external power and connection to other components of the signal-boosting device 104-A. For example, the connector 408 may be a USB-C connector or an Apple Lightning connector.

[0056] The signal-boosting device 104-A may include an external connector 410 connected to the signal-boosting device 104-A with a cable 412. The external connector 410 may connect to the external connector 308 of the portable communication apparatus 102-A and may be used to provide power and information to components of the portable communication apparatus 102-A (or for reverse charging, whereby the portable communication apparatus 102-A provides power to the signal-boosting device 104-A).

[0057] The signal-boosting device 104-A includes a donor antenna 124-A (corresponding to donor antenna 124 in FIG. 1).Inter-Device Communication

[0058] The portable communication apparatus 102-A may include wireless communication mechanism 118-A (corresponding to communication mechanism 118 in FIG. 1), which may include Bluetooth and other near-field communication (NFC) components.

[0059] The signal-boosting device 104-A may include wireless communication mechanism 414 (corresponding to communication mechanism 134 in FIG. 1), which may include Bluetooth and other near-field communication (NFC) components.Antennas, Probes, and Probe Arrays

[0060] The portable communication apparatus 102-A includes one or more internal radio frequency (RF) antennae 106-A, 106-B (corresponding to CP antenna(e) 106 in FIG. 1).

[0061] The signal -boosting device 104-A includes an array of 420-A of RF coupling probes (corresponding to RF coupling probes 126 in FIG. 1). The RF coupling probes are preferably embedded within an enclosure of device 104-A. In some cases, the RF coupling probes are embedded within a rear panel of the device, e.g., by injection molding or other means. The RF coupling probes are preferably located in the signal-boosting unit 104-A in a location that is close proximity to and may lay directly adjacent to the internal antenna(s) of the portable communication apparatus 102-A when the device 104-A and the apparatus 102-A are in contact. In this manner, one or more RF coupling probes in the probe array 420-A are in positions for electromagnetic coupling with one or more internal antenna(s) 106 (106-A, 106-B) of the portable communication apparatus 102-A for boosting the apparatus' signal strength. Inductive, capacitive, or other electromagnetic coupling may be employed. The two internal antenna(s), 106-A and 106-B, may correspond to different frequencies or frequency bands.

[0062] The signal-boosting device 104-A includes a donor antenna 124-A (corresponding to donor antenna 124 in FIG. 1). RF coupling probes 126 are generally positioned orthogonal to the donor antenna 124 to increase RF system isolation.

[0063] FIGS. 4B-4D show exemplary configurations of probe arrays. Device 104-B (FIG. 4B) includes a probe array 420-B with the probes orthogonal to donor antenna 124-B.

[0064] Device 104-C (FIG. 4C) includes a probe array 420-C, comprising noncontiguous sub-arrays 420-C1 and 420-C2. The probes in these two probe sub-arrays are orthogonal to donor antenna 124-C.

[0065] Device 104-D (FIG. 4D) includes a probe array 420-D comprising noncontiguous sub-arrays 420-D1 and 420-D2). The probes in these two probe sub-arrays, 420-D1, and 420-D2, are orthogonal to donor antenna 124-D.

[0066] For this description, the RF coupling probes are generally denoted "222." However, when RF coupling probes are to be distinguished for explanation or discussion, they are denoted "222X" or "222-X" or "222-nX" for some letter "X" and some number "n."

[0067] The probe array (generally denoted 420, e.g., probe array 420-A in FIG. 4A) may include two or more planar multilayer RF coupling probes 222.

[0068] A probe array (e.g., array 420) may be considered (logically) as two or more subarrays of RF probes 222. For example, the probe array 420-C (FIG. 4C) comprises two probe sub-arrays, 420-C1, and 420-C2, and the probe array 420-D (FIG. 4D) comprises two probe sub-arrays 420-D1 and 420-D2.

[0069] While a probe array (e.g., array 420) comprises multiple (two or more RF coupling probes), a probe sub-array (e.g., 420-C1, 420-C2, 420-D1, 420-D2) may comprise a single probe.

[0070] The RF coupling probes 222 in a probe array (or sub-array) may, but need not be, the same size as each other. The RF coupling probes 222 in a probe array (or sub-array) may, but need not be, contiguous.

[0071] A probe array (or sub-array) may be rectangular, circular, oval, triangular, L- shaped, I-shaped, or another shape.

[0072] The RF coupling probes 222 in a probe array (or sub-array) may be rectangular, circular, oval, triangular, L-shaped, I-shaped, or other shape(s) and may, but need not be, the same shape as each other. The RF coupling probes 222 in an array 420 are preferably rectangular.

[0073] The RF coupling probes 222 in an array 420 may not be symmetric.

[0074] The components of the signal-boosting device 200 may be housed in a single unit or assembly, preferably rectangular. The components are preferably situated in the housing so that at least some RF coupling probes 222 in the probe array 420 are positioned to cover known antenna positions on portable communication devices 102. More preferably, at least some RF coupling probes 222 in the probe array 420 are positioned to cover known antenna positions on portable communication devices 102 when the magnetic alignment components 404 on the signal-boosting unit 104 (404) are connected to and aligned with magnetic alignment components 304 on portable communication devices 102 (102-A).RF Coupling Probe Structure

[0075] With reference to FIG. 5A, an RF coupling probe 222 may have a multilayer planar construction including a first material layer 44, such as, but not limited to, fiberglass epoxy or thermoset laminate of low relative dielectric constant (DK) typically in the range of DK=2 to DK=5; a second patterned metallization layer 45 of copper, silver-filled paste or another electrical conductor which may be deposited or printed on one side of the first material layer 44 and may have a material thickness of about 0.7 to 2.8 mils for optimal operation, thereby forming a distributed resonant circuit; and a third material layer 46 such as a ceramic-filled laminate having a relatively high DK typically in the range of DK=20 to DK=50, whereby the third material layer 46 may be in intimate face-to-face contact with second patterned metallization layer 45. An important characteristic of probe 222 is that it functions as an anti-resonant network because of its high capacitance-to-inductance ratio,which enables near-field coupling and may be reception band selective by virtue of its unloaded high-Q quality factor. Band selectivity may provide multi -band resonance. For example, resonance for one or more frequency bands such as 700, 850, 900, 1800, 1900, and 2100 MHz and others are possible, a highly desirable and novel characteristic.

[0076] FIGS. 5B and 5C show exemplary low-band and high-band probes. The dimensions in the drawings are, by way of example, not limiting.

[0077] The system preferably has maximum isolation between the donor antenna 124 and the coupling probes 126 to support the RF gain provided by the LNA 128. If this isolation is not achieved, the system gain will be reduced, and lower performance will be seen. Isolation may use the approach described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,560,029, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. In general, an amplifier system must have more isolation than the gain for the amplifier system to work properly. If the system's gain is higher than the isolation of the system, feedback will occur, and the RF system will oscillate.RF Coupling Probes - Exemplary Configurations

[0078] FIGS. 6A to 6K show various exemplary configurations of the RF coupling probes 222 in probe arrays or sub-arrays. The configurations shown in FIGS. 6A to 6K are examples and are not intended to limit the scope hereof.

[0079] FIG. 6A shows an exemplary one-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-A having two probes, 222A and 222B.

[0080] FIG. 6B shows an exemplary one-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-B having three probes, 222A, 222B, and 222C.

[0081] FIG. 6C shows an exemplary one-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-C having four probes (222A, 222B, 222C, and 222D).

[0082] FIG. 6D shows an exemplary one-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-D having six probes (222A, 222B, 222C, 222D, 222E, and 222F).

[0083] FIG. 6E depicts an exemplary two-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-E with four probes, two probes (222-1A and 222-1B) in one row and two probes (222-2C and 222-2D) in the other.

[0084] FIG. 6F depicts an exemplary two-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-F having twelve probes: six probes (222-1A, 222-1B, 222-1C, 222-1D, 222-1E, and 222-1F) in one row, and another six probes (222-2A, 222-2B, 222-2C, 222-2D, 222-2E, and 222-2F) in the other row.

[0085] FIG. 6G depicts an exemplary two-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) 620-G having three rows of probes, with probes 222-1A to 222-1F in the first row, probes 222-2A to 222-2D in the second row, and probes 222-3A to 222-3F in the third row.

[0086] FIG. 6H depicts an exemplary two-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) configuration 620-H with nine probes, with three of the probes (222-4A, 222-4B, and 222-4C) spanning multiple rows.

[0087] FIG. 6i depicts an exemplary two-dimensional probe array (or sub-array) configuration 620-i with five probes, with two of the probes (222-4A and 222-4B) spanning multiple rows.

[0088] FIG. 6J depicts an exemplary probe array (or sub-array) configuration 620-J with a central oval-shaped probe 222A surrounded by four curved probes 222B, 222C, 222D, and 222E.

[0089] FIG. 6K depicts an exemplary probe array configuration 620-K, comprising two non-contiguous and different size sub-arrays, 620-K1 and 620-K2. The sub-array configuration 620-K1 has five probes (222-K1-1A, 222-K1-2A, 222-K1-3A, 222-K1-4A, and 222-K1-4B), with two of the probes (222-K1-4A and 222-K1-4B) spanning multiple rows. The sub-array configuration 620-K2 has four probes (222-K2-1A, 222-K2-2A, 222-K2-3A, and 222-K2-4A), with one of the probes (222-K2-4A) spanning multiple rows.

[0090] The RF coupling probes 222 in an array 420-A (620-x, x=A... J) are individually controllable by processing system 230, corresponding to the MCU 140 and / or firmware 130 in FIG. 1.

[0091] In operation, as described in greater detail below, when a signal-boosting unit 104 is positioned on or with a communications portable communication apparatus 102, RF coupling probe array 126 / 420-A covers, at least in part, the antenna(s) 106 of the portable communication apparatus 102.Configuration & Antenna Examples

[0092] FIGS. 7A to 71 depict various examples of probes 222 (or probe arrays 620) on the signal-boosting unit 104 overlaying one or more antennae 106 of the portable communication apparatus 102.

[0093] The drawings illustrate various examples of probes or probe arrays positioned on a signal-boosting unit overlaying one or more antennae of a portable communication apparatus. It should be understood that the configurations depicted are exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate,upon reading this description, that numerous other configurations, variations, and modifications are possible and are contemplated herein. The probe arrays and antennas are depicted to demonstrate various configurations and are not drawn to scale. Furthermore, when multiple antennas are present, they may vary in size (i.e., have different dimensions) and need not be positioned along the same axis.

[0094] FIG. 7A shows a situation in which, when signal-boosting unit 104 is positioned on a communications portable communication apparatus 102, the probe 222B completely covers antenna 106a. In this case, only probe 222B needs to be activated. In this example configuration, probe 222A need not be activated.

[0095] FIG. 7B shows a situation in which, when signal-boosting unit 104 is positioned on a communications portable communication apparatus 102, the probes 222A and 222B cover antenna 106a. In this case, either probe 222A or 222B may be activated, but a stronger connection between the probes and the antenna will likely be achieved if both probes are activated. Those of skill in the art will understand, upon reading this description, that the RF connection between an antenna element and a probe will likely be strongest if the probe covers more of the antenna. For example, in FIG. 7B, more of the antenna is covered by probe 222B than by probe 222A. Accordingly, if only a single probe is to be activated, probe 222B may be preferred. However, as explained below, the system may dynamically configure each probe or combination of probes to achieve an optimal connection.

[0096] In the example in FIG. 7C, the portable communication apparatus 102 has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 is positioned on a communications portable communication apparatus 102, the probes 222-1B and 222-2B cover antenna 106a, and probes 222-1E, 222-1F, 222-2E, and 222-2F cover antenna 106b. In this case, either probe 222-1B or 222-2B may be activated for the connection to antenna 106a, but a stronger connection between the probes and the antenna 106a will likely be achieved if both probes 222-1B and 222-2B are activated. Any of the probes 222-1E, 222-1F, 222-2E, and 222-2F may be activated for the connection to antenna 106b. Still, a stronger connection between the probes and the antenna 106b will likely be achieved if multiple probes 222-1E, 222-1F, 222-2E, and 222-2F are activated. Since most of the antenna 106b is covered by two probes, 222-1E and 222-2E, activating those two probes may be sufficient. In this example configuration, probes 222-1A, 222-1C, 222-1D, 222-2A, 222-2C, and 222-2D need not be activated.

[0097] In the example in FIG. 7D, the portable communication apparatus 102, has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 is positioned on a communicationsportable communication apparatus 102, the probes 222-2A and 222-2B fully cover antennae 106a and 106b, respectively. Only those two probes (222-2A, 222-2B) need to be activated in this case. In this example configuration, probes 222-1A, 222-1B, 222-4A, 222-4B, 222-4C, 222-3A, and 222-3B need not be activated.

[0098] In the example in FIG. 7E, the portable communication device 102 has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 / 200 is positioned on a portable communication device 102, the probes 222-2A, 222-3A, and 222-4B cover antenna 106a, and the probes 222-2B, 222-3B, and 222-4C cover antenna 106b. In this case, at least one of probes 222-2A, 222-3A, and 222-4B should be activated to communicate with antenna 106a. Since the overlap between probe 222-4B and the antenna 106a is much less than the overlap of probe 222-2A or even 222-2B, if only one probe is activated, probe 222-2A is probably preferable. Similarly, at least one of probes 222-2B, 222-3C, and 222-4C should be activated to communicate with antenna 106b. In this example configuration, probes 222-1A, 222-1B, and 222-4A need not be activated. Note that even though probe 222-4B has some overlap with the antenna 106a, the system may choose not to activate that probe, depending on the strength of the interaction between that probe and the antenna.

[0099] In the example in FIG. 7F, the portable communication device 102, has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 (with two sub-arrays, 620-F1, 620-F2, collectively 620-F1-F2) is positioned with a portable communication device 102, the probes 222-2A, 222-3A, and 222-4C of sub-array 620-F1 cover antenna 106a, and the probes 222-4A, 222-1A, 222-2A, 222-3A, and 222-4C of sub-array 620-F2 cover antenna 106b. [000100] In this case, at least one of probes 222-2A, 222-3A, and 222-4C of sub-array 620- F1 should be activated to communicate with antenna 106a and probe 222-2A (and at least some of the probes 222-4A, 222-1A, 222-3A, and 222-4C) of sub-array 620-F2 should be activated to communicate with antenna 106b. In this example configuration, probes 222-1A and 222-4 A need not be activated.[000101] In the example in FIG. 7G, the portable communication device 102 has one antenna 106a. When signal-boosting unit 200 is positioned with a portable communication device 102, the probes 222A and 222C cover the antenna. Since the probe 222A covers most of the antenna 106a, at least probe 222A should be activated. In this example, probes 222B, 222D, and 222E need not be activated.[000102] In the example in FIG. 7G, the portable communication device 102 has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 (with two sub-arrays, 620-G1 and 620-G2) is positioned with a portable communication device 102, the probes 222A and 222Cof sub-array 620-G1 cover antenna 106a, and the probe 222-G-B of sub-array 620-G2 covers antenna 106b. The other probes in the array 620-G (222B, 222D, 222E, and 222-G-A) need not be activated.[000103] Note that the RF probe array 620-G comprises two disjoint (non-contiguous) sub-arrays 620-G1 and 620-G2. Note, too, that the sub-arrays 620-G1 and 620-G2 have different shapes and sizes, and the RF probes that make up each sub-array are different shapes and / or sizes.[000104] In the example in FIG. 7H, the portable communication device 102 has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 (with two sub-arrays, 620-H1, 620-H2) is positioned with a portable communication device 102, the probes 222A and 222C of sub-array 620-H1 cover antenna 106a. In this example, the second sub-array 620-H2 has a single RF probe 222-H-A that covers antenna 106b. The other probes in the array 620-H1 (222B, 222D, 222E) need not be activated.[000105] Note that the RF probe array 620-G comprises two disjoint (non-contiguous) sub-arrays 620-G1 and 620-G2. Note, too, that the sub-arrays 620-G1 and 620-G2 have different shapes and sizes, and the RF probes that make up each sub-array are different shapes and / or sizes.[000106] In the example in FIG. 71, the portable communication device 102 has two antennae, 106a and 106b. When signal-boosting unit 104 (with sub-array 620-H1) is positioned with a portable communication device 102, the probe 222A covers antenna 106a and part of antenna 106b. The probe 222C covers the remainder of antenna 106b. The other probes in the array 620-H1 (222B, 222D, 222E) need not be activated. The RF coupling (NFC) near field coupling probes are preferably multi -band antennae that can couple to more than one of the phone’s antennae at one time.Determining which probe(s) to activate[000107] As described above, when a signal-boosting device 200 is positioned with a portable communication device 102, one or more of the probes in the probe array 420-A must be activated for the signal-boosting device 200 to communicate with the antenna(s) 106 of the portable communication device 102.[000108] The processing system 230 may execute an algorithm to determine which probe(s) 222 of the probe array (or sub-array) to activate.[000109] Exemplary algorithms are shown in the flowcharts in FIGS. 8A and 8B.[000110] The algorithms are described here without error checking. For example, the algorithm in FIG. 8A should signal an error if, upon completion, there are no probes on the active list. In addition (or alternately), the algorithm may activate all probes if there are none on the active list when processing is complete.[000111] Similarly, the algorithm in flowchart 800 may activate some or all probes if, after completion, all probes have been deactivated.[000112] In some exemplary embodiments, some coupling probes may be active by default. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 6i, the central probe 222-2A may be active by default, whereas the surrounding probes may be selectively activated.[000113] When one or more of the probes 222 are positioned for electromagnetic coupling with one or more antennae 106 of the portable communication device 102, the signalboosting unit 200 may be used to boost signals of the portable communication device 102. Inductive, capacitive, or other types of electromagnetic coupling may be used.[000114] The algorithm in the flowchart 800 in FIG. 8A is essentially a brute force algorithm in which each probe is activated in turn to determine that probe's connectivity with an antenna. The algorithm may then activate the probes that have the strongest connectivity. [000115] First, the processing system 230 deactivates all probes and sets the list of probes to be activated ("the active list") to empty (at 802). The algorithm then determines (at 804) if there are untested probes. If it is determined (at 804) that there are untested probes, the next untested probe is activated (at 806). That probe's connectivity with an antenna 106 on the portable communication device 102 is ascertained. If no antenna connectivity is determined (at 808), then the next untested probe (if any) is tested. If antenna connectivity is determined (present) (at 808), then the probe is added to the list of probes to be activated (the active list) (at 810), and the next untested probe (if any) is tested. When it is determined (at 804) that all probes have been tested, the processing system 230 then activates the probes on the active list (at 812).[000116] In a variation, the algorithm may activate any probes with connectivity above a certain threshold (e.g., 3 dB). In those cases, the connectivity test (at 808) will be based on that threshold.[000117] An alternative approach is to begin with all probes in the array activated. Then, probes with zero connectivity or with connectivity below a certain threshold (e.g., 3 dB) may be deactivated. With reference to the flowchart 814 in FIG. 8B, the algorithm first activates all probes in the array (at 820). Then, it tests the connectivity of each probe. Determine if there are untested probes (at 822); if so, check the next untested probe (at 824). If it isdetermined (at 826) that the probe being tested has connectivity (or has sufficient connectivity) with an antenna 106 on the portable communication device 102, then the next probe (if any) is checked. Since that probe is active, it is left active. On the other hand, if it is determined (at 826) that the probe being tested does not have connectivity (or does not have sufficient connectivity) with an antenna 106 on the portable communication device 102, that probe is deactivated (at 828). Once all probes have been tested, processing stops (at 830).[000118] The programmable selectable probe array may be used in conjunction with a signal-boosting device 200 that couples with a portable communication device 102 using a sleeve engagement to hold the portable communication device 102 in place with the signalboosting device 200, e.g., as described in U.S. Patent Number 9,832,295, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.[000119] The programmable selectable probe array may be used in conjunction with a battery pack or the like that provides additional or auxiliary power to the portable communication device 102.[000120] In some cases, the portable communication device 102 and the signal-boosting unit 200 may be held together by the magnetic alignment components 304 (on portable communication device 102-A) and 404 (on signal-boosting unit 104-A). In these cases, the signal-boosting unit 104-A may, but need not, include a lip or other structure to keep it in place with the portable communication device 102.[000121] When using the magnetic alignment components 304 (on the portable communication device 102-A) and 404 (on signal-boosting unit 104-A), the signal-boosting unit 104-A may be used to charge the battery(ies) 432 of the portable communication device 102 (and vice versa).Determining Information from the Phone[000122] In embodiments hereof, the signal-boosting unit 200 may determine configuration information from the portable communication device 102. The configuration information may provide information that the signal-boosting unit 200 can use to configure the probe arrays, at least in part.[000123] For example, if the signal -boosting device can determine model information about the connected phone, the information may indicate the positions of the phone's antenna. That information may also provide information about the frequencies, etc.[000124] Some cell phone manufacturers (e.g., Android-based phones) provide ways (e.g., APIs) for applications to get signal information (e.g., signal strength, carrier identification, and protocol) from their phones. In some cases, a user may receive information regarding the signal strength and / or the associated network from the phone’s settings by setting the phone to Field Test Mode or using APIs. Presently, Apple does not allow user applications to get this information, although the information is readily available, and the restrictions are purely policy-based. Users may also determine their device's protocol (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE, or 5G technologies), the frequency band, and the channel.[000125] Phone information may be stored in one or more tables 138 in the memory 114 of the portable communication apparatus 102.The Application in Operation[000126] In operation, the application 116 runs on the phone 102 when the phone is connected to the unit 104. The user may start the application 116 or set it to always run in the background when the phone 102 is running. The application 116 preferably communicates with a connected unit 104, e.g., via the communication mechanisms 118 (in the phone 102) and 134 (in the unit 104). Thus, when the communication mechanisms 118 and 134 support Bluetooth communication, then the application 116 in the phone 102 communicates with the unit 104 using Bluetooth. The application 116 may provide information about the phone’s configuration and / or status to the unit 104 and vice versa. For example, the application 116 may provide the unit 104 with information about one or more of (i) the strength(s) of signal(s) being received by the phone, (ii) the carrier / provider, and (iii) the protocol. The unit 104 may provide the application with information about the various components of the unit (e.g., for diagnostic purposes).[000127] FIG. 8C is a flowchart 840 depicting exemplary aspects of the operation of a system according to exemplary embodiments hereof.[000128] First, (at 842), the app 116 running on the phone 102 obtains phone configuration information from the phone. This may be done using the phone's API (if provided) or from other information, the app 116 can determine. The app 116 may use the information it determines from the phone to look up one or more configuration tables 138 stored by the app in the phone's memory 114. The table lookup provides phone configuration, including antenna location and frequency information. Next (at 844), the app 116 provides the phone configuration information to the unit 104.[000129] The unit 104 uses the phone configuration information (at 846) to fully or partially configure the probe arrays.[000130] For example, knowing the phone's model information allows the unit 102 to know the phone's antennae locations, which, in turn, allows the unit 102 to activate the probes that should connect to the phone's antennae.[000131] If the unit 104 has a construction (e.g., a sleeve) that allows it to hold the phone 102, then the probes should be well positioned relative to the phone's antenna. However, if the unit 104 connects more freely to the phone 102 (e.g., using a magnetic connector), the probes and the phone's antennae may not be well aligned. In any case, after the initial setup (flowchart 840), the unit may check the probe configuration (at 848).[000132] With reference to the flowchart in FIG. 8D, the probe configuration check (at 848) first activates some probes based on the phone's configuration information (obtained from the app or from information determined by the app). That initial configuration is then tested (at 852), and those probes with poor connections (based, e.g., on some threshold) may be deactivated. The unit 104 then activates some of the probes that were not previously activated to determine which, if any, of those probes improve the connectivity with the phone's antennae.[000133] While the phone's antennae configuration will (should) not change, the unit's connectivity with the phone (i.e., the probes' connectivity with the phone's antenna) may change during operation. For example, the phone and unit's physical connection may slip, causing a previously optimal connection to become suboptimal. Accordingly, in some cases, the unit may repeatedly evaluate and adjust the probe connections (which probes are active) during connection to the phone.Functionality provided by the signal-boosting device[000134] The signal-boosting unit 200 may provide some or all of the signal-boosting and power supply functionality and other electronic extensions described in U.S. Patent No. 9,832,295, the entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.Embodiment Summary[000135] Below is a list of device embodiments. Those will be indicated with the letter “D.” Whenever such embodiments are referred to, this will be done by referring to “D” embodiments.DI. A portable communication device, the device comprising:(A) a housing;(B) a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in the housing, wherein at least some of the coupling probes are selectively activatable; and(C) hardware, including a processor and memory, programmed to selectively activate or deactivate at least some of the RF coupling probes.D2. The device of embodiment s) DI, wherein at least some of the RF coupling probes electromagnetically couple with one or more internal antennas of the portable communication device, and wherein a particular RF coupling probe is selectively activated based on a strength of a signal received by the particular RF coupling probe from an internal antenna of the portable communication device.D3. The device of embodiment s) DI - D2, further comprising:(D) a device antenna; and(E) an embedded electrical circuit within the housing, the electrical circuit comprising a signal amplifying circuit connecting the device antenna and the coupling probes, and the amplifier amplifying signals between the device antenna and the coupling probes.D4. The device of embodiment s) D3, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to conduct a captured electromagnetic signal from the coupling probe to the device antenna, wherein conducting the captured electromagnetic signal to the device antenna does not include actively amplifying the captured electromagnetic signal.D5. The device of embodiment s) DI - D4, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes consists of between 2 and 10 coupling probes.D6. The device of embodiment s) DI - D5, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprises a one-dimensional array of probes.D7. The device of embodiment s) DI - D6, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprises a two-dimensional array of probes.D8. The device of embodiment s) DI - D7, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprise one or more rectangular probes.D9. The device of embodiment s) DI - D8, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprise one or more circular or oval probes.DIO. The device of embodiment s) DI - D9, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes each have a multilayer planar construction.Dll. The device of embodiment s) DI - DIO wherein at least some of the coupling probes have a multi -frequency band resonance enabling plural frequency band selectivity including at least one of 600, 700, 850, 900, 1800, 1900, 2100, 2300, and 2600 MHz, 5G (1 to 6Ghz) and 5G (24 to 40GHZ).Dll. The device of embodiment(s) D2 - Dll wherein the electromagnetic coupling comprises near field coupling.D13. The device of embodiment s) DI - Dll, further comprising at least one power source, and wherein the device is constructed and adapted to provide power from the at least one power source to the portable communication device.D14. The device of embodiment s) DI - D13, further comprising: one or more magnetic alignment components constructed and adapted to align with magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device.D15. The device of embodiment s) D14, wherein, when the one or more magnetic alignment components on the device are magnetically aligned with corresponding magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device, at least some coupling probes of the plurality of planar radio frequency coupling probes are in electromagnetic contact with at least one antenna of the portable communication device.D16. The device of embodiment s) D14 - D15, wherein the one or more magnetic alignment components on the device and the magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device are part of an electronic charging system.D17. The device of embodiment s) D16, wherein the device charges the portable communication device via the electronic charging system.D18. The device of embodiment s) DI - D17, wherein the portable communication device is a cell phone.[000136] Below is a list of process (or method) embodiments. Those will be indicated with the letter “P ” Whenever such embodiments are referred to, this will be done by referring to “P” embodiments.P19. A method, in a device comprising a device for engaging a portable communication device, the device comprising: a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in a housing, the method comprising, by hardware, including a processor and memory: selectively activating or deactivating at least some of the RF coupling probes.P20. The method of embodiment(s) P19, wherein individual RF coupling probes are activated or deactivated based on antenna signal received at the RF coupling probes from one or more antennas of the portable communication device.P21. The method of embodiment(s) P19 - P20, operating on the device of any one of device embodiments DI - D18.Conclusion[000137] Where a process is described herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the process may operate without any user intervention. In another embodiment, the process includes some human intervention (e.g., an act is performed by or with the assistance of a human).[000138] As used herein, including in the claims, the phrase “at least some” means “one or more” and includes the case of only one. Thus, e.g., the phrase “at least some ABCs” means “one or more ABCs” and includes the case of only one ABC.[000139] As used herein, including in the claims, the term “at least one” should be understood as meaning “one or more” and therefore includes both embodiments that include one or multiple components. Furthermore, dependent claims that refer to independent claims that describe features with “at least one” have the same meaning, both when the feature is referred to as “the” and “the at least one.”[000140] As used in this description, the term “portion” means some or all. So, for example, “A portion of X” may include some of “X” or all of “X”. In the context of a conversation, the term “portion” means some or all of the conversation.[000141] As used herein, including in the claims, the phrase “using” means “using at least” and is not exclusive. Thus, e.g., the phrase “using X” means “using at least X.” Unless specifically stated by the use of the word “only,” the phrase “using X” does not mean “using only X.”[000142] As used herein, including in the claims, the phrase “based on” means “based in part on” or “based, at least in part, on” and is not exclusive. Thus, e.g., the phrase “based on factor X” means “based in part on factor X” or “based, at least in part, on factor X.” Unless specifically stated by the use of the word “only,” the phrase “based on X” does not mean “based only on X.”[000143] In general, as used herein, including in the claims, unless the word “only” is specifically used in a phrase, it should not be read into that phrase.[000144] As used herein, including in the claims, the phrase “distinct” means “at least partially distinct.” Unless specifically stated, distinct does not mean fully distinct. Thus, e.g., the phrase, “X is distinct from Y” means that “X is at least partially distinct from Y,” and does not mean that “X is fully distinct from Y .” Thus, as used herein, including in the claims, the phrase “X is distinct from Y” means that X differs from Y in at least some way.[000145] It should be appreciated that the words “first,” “second,” and so on in the description and claims are used to distinguish or identify and not to show a serial or numerical limitation. Similarly, letter labels (e.g., “(A),” “(B),” “(C),” and so on, or “(a),” “(b),” and so on) and / or numbers (e.g., “(i),” “(ii),” and so on) are used to assist in readability and to help distinguish and / or identify, and are not intended to be otherwise limiting or imposing or imply any serial or numerical limitations or orderings. Similarly, words such as “particular,” “specific,” “certain,” and “given” in the description and claims, if used, are to distinguish or identify and are not intended to be otherwise limiting.[000146] As used herein, including in the claims, the terms “multiple” and “plurality” mean “two or more” and include the case of “two.” Thus, e.g., the phrase “multiple ABCs” means “two or more ABCs” and includes “two ABCs.” Similarly, e.g., the phrase “multiple PQRs” means “two or more PQRs” and includes “two PQRs.”[000147] The present invention also covers the exact terms, features, values, and ranges, etc., in case these terms, features, values, and ranges, etc. are used in conjunction with terms such as about, around, generally, substantially, essentially, at least, etc. (i.e., “about 3” or “approximately 3” shall also cover exactly 3 or “substantially constant” shall also cover exactly constant).[000148] As used herein, including in the claims, singular forms of terms are to be construed as also including the plural form and vice versa unless the context indicates otherwise. Thus, it should be noted that as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.[000149] Throughout the description and claims, the terms “comprise,” “including,” “having,” and “contain” and their variations should be understood as meaning “including but not limited to” and are not intended to exclude other components unless expressly so stated. [000150] It will be appreciated that variations to the embodiments of the invention can be made while still falling within the scope of the invention. Alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose can replace features disclosed in the specification unless stated otherwise. Thus, unless stated otherwise, each feature disclosed represents one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.[000151] The present invention also covers the exact terms, features, values, and ranges, etc., in case these terms, features, values, and ranges, etc. are used in conjunction with terms such as about, around, generally, substantially, essentially, at least, etc. (i.e., “about 3” shall also cover exactly 3 or “substantially constant” shall also cover exactly constant).[000152] Use of exemplary language, such as “for instance,” “such as,” “for example” (“e.g.,”), and the like, is merely intended to illustrate the invention better and does not indicate a limitation on the scope of the invention unless specifically so claimed.[000153] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

ClaimsWe claim:

1. An assembly for engaging a portable communication device, the assembly comprising:(A) a housing;(B) a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in the housing, wherein at least some of the coupling probes are selectively activatable; and(C) hardware, including a processor and memory, programmed to selectively activate or deactivate at least some of the RF coupling probes.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein at least some of the RF coupling probes electromagnetically couple with one or more internal antennas of the portable communication device, and wherein a particular RF coupling probe is selectively activated based on a strength of a signal received by the particular RF coupling probe from an internal antenna of the portable communication device.

3. The assembly of claims 1 or 2, further comprising:(D) an assembly antenna; and(E) an embedded electrical circuit within the housing, the electrical circuit comprising a signal amplifying circuit connecting the assembly antenna and the coupling probes, the amplifier amplifying signals between the assembly antenna and the coupling probes.

4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the electrical circuit is configured to conduct a captured electromagnetic signal from the coupling probe to the assembly antenna, wherein conducting the captured electromagnetic signal to the assembly antenna does not include actively amplifying the captured electromagnetic signal.

5. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes consists of between 2 and 10 coupling probes.

6. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprises a one-dimensional array of probes.

7. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprises a two-dimensional array of probes.

8. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprise one or more rectangular probes.

9. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes comprise one or more circular or oval probes.

10. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of planar RF coupling probes each have a multilayer planar construction.

11. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims wherein at least some of the coupling probes have a multi-frequency band resonance enabling plural frequency band selectivity including at least one of 600, 700, 850, 900, 1800, 1900, 2100, 2300, and 2600 MHz, 5G (1 to 6Ghz) and 5G (24 to 40GHZ).

12. The assembly of any one of claims 2 to 11 wherein the electromagnetic coupling comprises near-field coupling.

13. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one battery, and wherein the assembly is constructed and adapted to provide power from the at least one battery to the portable communication device.

14. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: one or more magnetic alignment components constructed and adapted to align with magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device.

15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein, when the one or more magnetic alignment components on the assembly are magnetically aligned with corresponding magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device, at least some coupling probes of the plurality of planar radio frequency coupling probes are in electromagnetic contact with at least one antenna of the portable communication device.

16. The assembly of claims 14 or 15, wherein the one or more magnetic alignment components on the assembly and the magnetic alignment components on the portable communication device are part of an electronic charging system.

17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the assembly charges the portable communication device via the electronic charging system.

18. The assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the portable communication device is a cell phone.

19. A method, in a device comprising an assembly for engaging a portable communication device, the assembly comprising: a plurality of planar radio frequency (RF) coupling probes positioned in a housing, the method comprising, by hardware, including a processor and memory: selectively activating or deactivating at least some of the RF coupling probes.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein individual RF coupling probes are activated or deactivated based on antenna signal received at the RF coupling probes from one or more antennas of the portable communication device.

21. The method of claims 19 or 20, operating on the device of any one of the devices of claims 1-18.

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