Electromagnetic Field-Triggered Power Switching for Portable Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable devices with small battery capacity, such as credit-card sized NFC tags, face challenges with high power consumption in standby mode and limited communication range due to the need for continuous power and dependence on human intervention for switching, which is not suitable for applications requiring rapid data transfer and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A battery-powered device with an electromagnetic field detection circuit that automatically switches on and off, using a switching circuit powered by either the battery or the detected electromagnetic field, reducing power consumption and enabling autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a continuously operating device with standby mode is used to eliminate human intervention, then automation is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device alternates between complete power shutdown and active operation triggered by electromagnetic field detection. Instead of maintaining standby power continuously, the system periodically activates only when needed (when an electromagnetic field is detected), thereby eliminating continuous power consumption while maintaining automation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The switching circuit automatically detects electromagnetic fields and triggers power activation without human intervention. The system serves itself by using the detected electromagnetic field to power the switching circuit, which then autonomously manages power activation and shutdown, eliminating the need for user interaction while minimizing power consumption
2Volume of moving object
If a small battery is used to reduce device size, then device compactness is improved, but operational duration decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device remains in a low-power shutdown state for extended periods, activating only briefly when an electromagnetic field is detected. This periodic operation pattern allows a small battery to provide sufficient total energy for the intended operational lifetime, as the majority of time the device consumes minimal or no power
Solution Approach 2:
The switching circuit is powered self-selectively by the battery or by the electromagnetic field itself. When an electromagnetic field is detected, it automatically powers the switching circuit to activate the main device, eliminating the need for a continuously powered control system and reducing overall power requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If standby mode is used to detect communication, then communication detection capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication detection capability is activated periodically only when an electromagnetic field is detected, rather than operating continuously in standby mode. The electromagnetic field detection triggers brief activation periods for communication protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HiperLAN), allowing the system to maintain detection capability while minimizing power consumption during non-active periods
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic field acts as an intermediary trigger that activates the communication detection systems. Instead of continuously powering detection circuits, the electromagnetic field itself serves as the activation signal, allowing the system to remain in low-power state until communication is actually needed
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
The solution significantly reduces power consumption and allows for autonomous operation, extending battery life and enabling efficient data transfer over a wider range without human intervention, suitable for applications like access control and rapid data communication.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electromagnetic field detection circuit coupled with the switching circuit to start the power to the electronic circuit if an electromagnetic field is detected
Implementation Method 2
The resonant circuit is associated with a frequency range so that alternating voltage is created at its terminals in the presence of an electromagnetic field with a frequency located within the frequency range
Implementation Method 3
The rectification and regulation circuit transforms the alternating voltage into direct voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A portable electronic device 1 comprising a battery 14 coupled with an electronic circuit 10-12 through a switching circuit 15 for switching on or off the supply voltage Vcc to the electronic circuit using the battery. The portable device comprises at least one electromagnetic field detection circuit 13 coupled with the switching circuit 15 to start the power supply to the electronic circuit 10-12 if an electromagnetic field is detected.