Dual-Range RF Communication Interface Using Segmented Bluetooth Phases

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Solution Overview

Problem

In environments with multiple users accessing different equipment, existing radiofrequency communication technologies face disruptions due to proximity, and current solutions require additional adapters or modifications to computer systems for widespread implementation.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a dual-range radiofrequency communication method using a single physical interface for both initialization/pairing and communication phases, with a short-range communication mode for initial connection and a longer-range mode for subsequent communication, utilizing Bluetooth technology and antenna configuration to manage communication range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If radio frequency communication is used for initial connection in environments with multiple users, then communication range is extended, but communication interference and disruption occur due to proximity of various terminals

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoidcommunication interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The communication process is segmented into two distinct phases: a short-range initialization phase for pairing and authentication, and a long-range communication phase for data transfer. This segmentation allows the system to benefit from both close proximity for secure pairing and extended range for communication, while avoiding interference during the critical initialization phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a secure short-range connection before initiating long-range communication. The initialization phase completes all necessary pairing and authentication procedures at close range, ensuring security and avoiding interference, before transitioning to the long-range communication phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If contactless technology such as NFC is used for initialization, then secure pairing is achieved, but additional adapters or modifications to computer systems are required for widespread implementation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure pairingVSAvoidsystem modification requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal Bluetooth interface that serves dual purposes: it enables both the initial short-range pairing phase and the subsequent long-range communication phase. This eliminates the need for separate contactless adapters or system modifications, as Bluetooth is already widely supported in computers and mobile devices without requiring additional hardware.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using specialized contactless technology that requires additional adapters, the patent uses a copy of the Bluetooth interface for the initialization phase. The same Bluetooth hardware and software stack are used for both initialization and communication, simplifying implementation while maintaining security through the short-range pairing mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Device complexity

If a single physical radio frequency interface is used for both initialization and communication, then device complexity is reduced, but communication range control becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of physical interfacesVSAvoidcommunication range control

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the communication range adjustable and adaptive. The system dynamically switches between short-range and long-range modes based on the communication phase, allowing the same physical interface to provide different range characteristics at different times. This is achieved through configuration changes in the Bluetooth stack rather than physical hardware changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 allows for secure, disturbance-free connections without the need for additional adapters or system modifications, enabling efficient and scalable communication across multiple users and equipment.

Implementation Method 1

radio frequency communication means with a remote device, said communication means being capable of establishing a first short-range communication (CP) and a second communication (LP) of longer range than the first

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation:

Data Source

PatentEP2553633B1Double-range radio frequency communication object and method for implementing same

Publication Date: 2020.07.22 THALES DIS FRANCE SA

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a communication object (1A, 1B, 1C, D) comprising means for radiofrequency communication with a remote device (T), wherein said communication means are capable of establishing a first short-range communication (CP) and a second communication (LP) having a longer range than the first communication, said long range being enabled by Bluetooth or Wifi technology. The object is characterized in that the communication means use the same type (4, 5, 24) of communication technology for the first and second communications (CP, LP). The invention also relates to a method for implementing the dual-range radiofrequency communication of the object.