Data Bridge NFC Wi-Fi Switching for Energy and Rate Trade-offs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current NFC systems face limitations in data transfer efficiency and security, particularly in terms of energy consumption and data interception risks, as well as the need for improved data storage and retrieval methods that facilitate seamless communication between devices.

Innovation Solution

A data transmission system comprising a data bridge with an RFID system, a network system, a memory module, and a processor, allowing operation in both low-energy NFC mode and high-energy network mode, with a switch for controlled data transfer and optional security encryption, enabling efficient data transfer and secure communication between NFC devices and network-connected devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If NFC systems use magnetic induction between loop antennas for data transmission, then communication can be established without manual configuration and with low power consumption, but the data transmission rate is limited and the range is restricted to close contact

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoiddata transmission rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines NFC and Wi-Fi technologies into a single device, allowing the system to leverage both low-power NFC for initial connection and high-speed Wi-Fi for bulk data transfer, thus resolving the contradiction between low power consumption and high data transmission rate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between NFC and Wi-Fi modes based on operational requirements, using NFC for setup and authentication phases where low power is critical, and Wi-Fi for data-intensive operations where transmission rate is prioritized

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If NFC devices operate at relatively short range to reduce interception risk, then security is improved, but the likelihood of data interception is not completely eliminated and usability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidusability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses NFC as an intermediary for secure authentication and key exchange, then transitions to Wi-Fi for data transfer, maintaining security through encrypted communication channels while enabling greater operational flexibility and ease of use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If NFC systems store data on the device for transfer, then data can be transferred without network connection, but the data storage capacity is limited and retrieval efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer capabilityVSAvoiddata storage capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the data bridge device universally accessible through multiple interfaces (NFC, Wi-Fi, USB), allowing data to be stored locally with unlimited capacity while providing multiple retrieval pathways that accommodate different usage scenarios and maintain transfer reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a data bridge system operates in both RFID mode and network mode, then versatility is improved and different communication needs are met, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication mode flexibilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a multi-functional data bridge device that incorporates RFID, Wi-Fi, and USB capabilities in a single unit, managing complexity through integrated hardware design and software coordination that automatically selects the appropriate communication interface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Optimizes energy consumption and enhances data transfer rates while ensuring secure data transmission, addressing the limitations of traditional NFC systems by leveraging both RFID and network communication standards for efficient and secure data exchange.

Implementation Method 1

NFC systems employ magnetic induction between two loop antennas to communicate data

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8917161B2Systems and methods for transmitting data using near field communications
Publication Date: 2014.12.23 AUGUST CLIFFORD J
  • US8917161B2 patent drawing
  • US8917161B2 patent drawing
  • US8917161B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data transmission system comprising a data bridge, a reader device, and a network access system. The data bridge comprises an RFID system, a network system, a memory module, and a processor operatively connected between the RFID system and the network system. The data bridge system operates in a first mode using the RFID system and a second mode using the network system. The reader device communicates with the memory module using the RFID system. The network access system communicates with the memory module using the network system.