Compact Communication Apparatus Using Physical Alignment for Self-Powered Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RFID and NFC technologies are limited by their active, passive, or semi-active nature, leading to bulky devices for powering passive RFID peers and inability of passive devices to function independently or with each other, especially in applications requiring small data transfers between compact, portable devices.
Innovation Solution
A compact personal apparatus with a small power source and wireless communication interface that allows self-sufficient data exchange between devices when aligned, eliminating the need for external power transmission and enabling communication between two devices without the need for bulky active devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If passive RFID devices are used without external power transmission, then device portability and compactness are improved, but the ability to function independently or communicate with each other deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling passive RFID devices to function independently through energy harvesting from ambient electromagnetic fields. The devices contain rectenna circuits that convert received RF energy into electrical power, allowing them to operate without external power transmission infrastructure while maintaining communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of passive RFID devices by implementing variable power management modes. The devices can switch between different communication protocols and power consumption levels based on available harvested energy, enabling independent operation across varying environmental conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active devices with external power transmission are used to power passive RFID peers, then communication capability is improved, but device bulk and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power transmission function from a separate active device and integrates it into the passive RFID devices themselves through energy harvesting circuits. This eliminates the need for bulky external power transmission equipment while maintaining full communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each RFID device serves its own power needs by harvesting energy from ambient RF fields, eliminating dependence on external active devices for power transmission. This self-sufficient approach reduces system bulk while preserving communication functionality.
3Productivity
If small data transfers are performed between portable devices, then application efficiency is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through duty-cycled communication protocols that activate data transfer only when needed. The system uses idle listening modes and scheduled transmission windows to minimize continuous power consumption while maintaining efficient data transfer capability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes communication parameters such as transmission power, data rate, and protocol selection based on available harvested energy and application requirements. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between data transfer efficiency and power consumption.
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
Enables efficient, compact, and low-cost data transfer between devices, allowing for spontaneous communication and integration with the Internet via standard interfaces, enhancing applications in social networking and other fields by providing a self-sufficient, portable solution for exchanging small amounts of data.
Implementation Method 1
a first wireless communication module (108) and a second wireless communication module (108) for transferring data between the first device (320) and the second device (322) when the two devices are aligned in close proximity to one another
Data Source
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AI summary
A compact communication apparatus comprises: a processor module (104); a memory module (106); a wireless communication interface (108) and a mobile power source (114); wherein: the wireless communication interface (108) comprises short-range wireless communication module (110) and a physical alignment device (112), said physical alignment device (112) usable for aligning the compact communication apparatus with another compact communication apparatus containing a similar wireless communication interface (108) such that data communication can happen between the wireless communication modules (110); wherein the processor module (104) is adapted to act on the data received from the wireless communication module (110) and to store some related data, especially variables, to the memorymodule (106); wherein the mobile power source (114) is contained within the compact communication apparatus and provides the power to run at least said apparatus wireless communication interface (108) and processor module (104); wherein said compact communication apparatus optionally also comprises a connection module (102) for interfacing the compact apparatus with an Internet-capable appliance.