Flexible Data Communication Device with Environmental Power Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless data communication systems for short-range applications are limited by proprietary RFID tags and lack of standardization, making them inflexible and costly, with high usage-based charges and restricted access to content providers, hindering widespread adoption for applications like location-specific data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A data communication device with a flexible substrate, programmable memory, and a power source that includes both storage and environmental energy harvesting, allowing for adaptable and cost-effective short-range data transmission using electromagnetic radiation, with a perceptive filter in the reader to determine relevant content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If proprietary RFID tags are used for short-range communication, then data transmission capability is achieved, but system flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal data transmission system using standardized electromagnetic radiation frequencies (such as 2.4GHz ISM band) that can be used across multiple applications and devices. The portable reader and data communication device are designed to work with generic protocols rather than proprietary RFID standards, enabling the system to serve multiple purposes including location tracking, data exchange, and communication without requiring application-specific hardware modifications.
2Ease of operation
If specialized readers are required for RFID tags, then reliable data reception is achieved, but system accessibility and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The portable reader is designed as a multi-functional device that can operate with multiple types of data communication devices using standardized electromagnetic communication protocols. The reader incorporates signal filtering and processing capabilities that enable it to reliably receive data from various devices without requiring specialized RFID readers for each application, thus improving accessibility while maintaining reliability through robust signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a standardized electromagnetic radiation interface as an intermediary between the data communication device and the portable reader. This intermediate communication layer uses well-established RF technologies that are widely supported, acting as a universal mediator that enables reliable communication between diverse devices without requiring proprietary specialized readers for each device type.
3Ease of manufacture
If high usage-based charges are imposed, then service quality is maintained, but widespread adoption and ease of manufacture are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The data communication device incorporates an environmental power extraction means that enables it to harvest energy from its surroundings (such as ambient electromagnetic fields, light, or thermal gradients) to supplement or replace battery power. This self-powered capability reduces the frequency of battery replacements and lowers operational costs, making the system more scalable and suitable for widespread deployment in applications like location tracking where cost sensitivity is high.
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 flexible, cost-effective, and widespread use of short-range wireless communication systems for various applications without the need for complex infrastructure or proprietary systems, allowing users to transmit and receive relevant data efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter adapted to transmit data in the form of electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
a power extraction means capable of extracting power from the environment in which the data communication device is located when in use
Data Source
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AI summary
A data communication device (1) for attachment to an object is provided having a flexible substrate, a transmitter (3) adapted to transmit data in the form of electromagnetic radiation and a programmable memory (7). The device has a controller (5) for controlling the transmission of the data and a programming means for programming the device. A power source for the device comprises a power storage device (8) and a power extraction means (9) capable of extracting power from the environment in which the data communication device is located when in use. A data communication system is also disclosed comprising the device and a reader for receiving electromagnetic radiation from the device. The reader includes a perceptive filter adapted to distinguish radiation received from the device from radiation received from other sources.