Acoustic Micro-Device Communication Rate Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Micro-devices face challenges in power supply and communication due to their small size, limited power availability, acoustic attenuation in various environments, inefficient acoustic wave generation, thermal noise, and frequency selection issues for effective communication.
Innovation Solution
Designing acoustic fields and methods for power and data transfer tailored to micro-devices, using acoustic waves to communicate between macro-scale and micro-scale devices, and between multiple micro-devices, with specific frequency choices and surface motions to overcome attenuation and inefficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If acoustic waves are used for communication and power transfer to micro-devices, then power and data transfer efficiency is improved, but acoustic attenuation in various environments worsens communication effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing acoustic frequency selection and adjusting surface motion parameters of the transducer to compensate for acoustic attenuation in different environments. The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters to maintain effective communication and power transfer despite environmental attenuation variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by tailoring the acoustic field characteristics to specific micro-device locations and environmental conditions. Different regions of the acoustic field are optimized for different purposes, with frequency and amplitude variations adapted to local attenuation properties of the medium.
2Volume of moving object
If micro-devices are made smaller to improve miniaturization, then device size is reduced, but antenna size limitation worsens communication capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electromagnetic antenna-based communication with acoustic wave-based communication. This substitution allows micro-devices to communicate effectively without requiring proportionally sized antennas, as acoustic waves can be generated and detected by micro-scale piezoelectric or piezoresistive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from electromagnetic wave communication (three-dimensional wave propagation) to acoustic wave communication through fluid media. This dimensional change in the communication medium allows for effective coupling with micro-scale devices without the same antenna size constraints that apply to electromagnetic systems.
3Speed
If acoustic frequency is increased to improve data transfer rate, then communication speed is improved, but acoustic attenuation increases reducing transmission distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the acoustic frequency and power adjustable based on real-time communication requirements and environmental conditions. The system can dynamically switch between different frequency bands and power levels to optimize the trade-off between data transfer rate and transmission distance, rather than operating at a fixed frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic acoustic wave transmission with varying frequencies and amplitudes to convey information. By modulating the acoustic signals periodically and using coded sequences, the system achieves reliable data transfer even when individual high-frequency components are heavily attenuated, as the periodic structure allows for signal reconstruction and error correction.
4Length of stationary object
If power is increased to overcome acoustic attenuation, then transmission distance is improved, but tissue damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using multiple low-power acoustic transducers distributed throughout the environment, each contributing a portion of the total acoustic field. Alternatively, a single transducer uses just enough power to achieve the required transmission distance with an acceptable safety margin, avoiding excessive power levels that would cause tissue damage. The system optimizes power usage to be sufficient but not excessive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary acoustic coupling medium (such as a fluid-filled catheter or gel) between the power source and the micro-device. This intermediary efficiently transmits acoustic energy over the required distance while allowing for better control of energy distribution and reduced peak power requirements, thereby minimizing tissue damage risk.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables efficient power and data transfer to micro-devices, optimizing communication and power delivery in diverse environments while minimizing tissue damage and power requirements.
Implementation Method 1
using acoustic waves to communicate between macro-scale and micro-scale devices
Implementation Method 2
Designing acoustic fields and methods for power and data transfer tailored to micro-devices
Implementation Method 3
micro-devices can use piezoelectric materials to produce sound
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides devices and methods for using acoustics to communicate between a macro-scale transceiver and a micro-device or between multiple micro-devices. The micro-devices may passively scatter sound from a transceiver or actively generate sound. Acoustic waves can also provide power to a micro-device.