Contactless Smart Connectors for Adaptive Secure Data Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic device connections, particularly mechanical connectors, lack dynamic management and security features, leading to inefficient data transfer and potential security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing contactless electromagnetic connectors using Extremely High Frequency (EHF) communications links with smart transceivers that manage and secure data transfer between devices, eliminating the need for physical connections and enabling dynamic link adaptation and security measures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical connectors are used for device connection, then physical connection is established, but the connection lacks dynamic management and security features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical connectors with electromagnetic field-based wireless communication systems. The mechanical connection system is substituted by using electromagnetic fields to establish communication links between devices, enabling dynamic management and security features without physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adjustable electromagnetic field parameters such as frequency, power level, and modulation characteristics to dynamically manage connection quality and security. By changing these parameters in real-time, the system adapts to different operational requirements and threat levels.
2Reliability
If host system performs initial analysis and device enumeration, then connection setup is achieved, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs device enumeration, capability exchange, and security parameter negotiation before the actual data transfer begins. This preliminary action ensures that when connection is needed, the system is already configured and ready, reducing the time penalty of initial analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains persistent electromagnetic field connections that remain active and continuously monitored, eliminating the need for repeated connection establishment and device enumeration. The connection state is continuously maintained and updated without breaking the link.
3Device complexity
If mechanical connectors operate until failure, then simplicity is maintained, but security vulnerabilities arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback mechanisms that monitor connection quality, signal integrity, and security parameters in real-time. This feedback enables the system to detect anomalies, authenticate devices, and terminate connections when security threats are detected, preventing operation until failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic field-based system performs self-authentication, self-configuration, and self-monitoring without requiring complex external management. The connection automatically establishes security parameters and monitors its own health, simplifying operation while enhancing security.
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
Facilitates fast, secure, and efficient data transfer between devices, reducing power consumption and eliminating the need for mechanical connectors while providing adaptive link management and enhanced security.
Implementation Method 1
contactless connectors... may comprise transceivers (and associated transducers or antennas) for converting between electrical signals (for the host system) and electromagnetic (EM) signals
Implementation Method 2
transceivers (and associated transducers or antennas) for converting between electrical signals (for the host system) and electromagnetic (EM) signals
Data Source
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AI summary
Smart connectors with embedded processors, measurement circuits and control circuits are disclosed for establishing a contactless radio frequency electromagnetic Extremely High Frequency communications link between two electronic devices having host systems. The connectors are capable of monitoring, controlling, and directing link operation to dynamically adapt to conditions, as well as monitoring and altering data passing through the connector, and selecting a protocol suitable for a communications session. The connectors are capable of identifying the type of content being transferred, providing authentication and security services, and enabling application support for the host systems based on the type of connection or the type of content. The connectors may operate independently of the host systems, and may perform at least one of sensing proximity of a nearby object; detecting a shape of a nearby object; and detecting vibrations.