Circuit Communication via Multi-Function Conductors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication methods between electronic circuits in devices without internal power sources, such as contactless cards, require multiple conductors for efficient energy use and optimal operation, leading to increased power consumption and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing three or four conductors for communication between circuits, where one circuit supplies power and controls the other's standby mode, and transmits information about energy and time budgets to optimize power usage, allowing for reduced conductor count and efficient data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If multiple conductors are used for communication between circuits, then communication efficiency and energy use are improved, but the number of conductors increases leading to more space requirements and higher power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication channels (synchronization signal, data signals, and standby mode control signals) onto a reduced number of conductors (three or four conductors). This merging of functions reduces the overall conductor count while maintaining effective communication between the first and second elements, directly resolving the contradiction between communication efficiency and conductor quantity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductors in the patent serve multiple functions simultaneously. For example, the same conductors that transmit data signals also convey standby mode control signals. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain comprehensive communication capabilities with fewer conductors, addressing the contradiction between communication efficiency and device complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple conductors are used for communication between circuits, then data exchange efficiency is improved, but space occupation in the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication functions into a compact three or four conductor system. By combining synchronization, data transmission, and control signals onto fewer conductors, the physical space required for conductor routing is reduced while maintaining data exchange efficiency between circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
Each conductor in the patent performs multiple functions (e.g., carrying both data and control signals), which maximizes the utilization of available conductors and minimizes the total number needed. This multi-functionality directly reduces space occupation while preserving communication productivity.
3Speed
If circuits remain active continuously for communication, then communication responsiveness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic activation of circuits through standby mode control. The first element can place the second element in standby mode after transmitting information, and reactivate it when needed. This periodic action reduces power consumption while maintaining communication responsiveness when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The standby mode control signals prepare circuits for future communication needs by placing them in a low-power state when not actively communicating. This preliminary action ensures that circuits can be quickly reactivated when communication is needed, balancing responsiveness with power savings.
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 reduces the number of conductors needed for communication, minimizing power consumption and optimizing energy use in devices like contactless payment cards, while maintaining effective data exchange and device operation.
Implementation Method 1
a first element sends the second element a first piece of information representative of energy supplied by an electromagnetic field supplying the device
Data Source
AI summary
A first element and a second element of a same device communicate with each other. The first element sends the second element a first piece of information representative of energy supplied by an electromagnetic field supplying power the device. The second element adapts its operating frequency as a function of the first piece of information.