Bi-directional Inductive Signal Interface Bridge Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional inductive signal interfaces are limited in their ability to dynamically switch between power transmission and reception modes without reconfiguration, and they often require exposed connectors or cables for power transfer, which can be cumbersome and costly for various electronic devices.

Innovation Solution

A bi-directional inductive signal interface that uses a coil assembly and a bridge circuit with electronically controlled switches to dynamically switch between power transmission and reception modes, allowing devices to operate as either a power transmitter or receiver without the need for cables or exposed connectors, and can automatically determine its mode of operation based on inductive signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional inductive signal interfaces use fixed configuration for power transmission or reception, then the circuit design is simpler, but the device cannot dynamically switch between power transmission and reception modes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidcircuit configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bridge circuit uses electronically controlled switches that can be dynamically turned on or off based on control signals, allowing the circuit to adapt its configuration between power transmission mode and power reception mode. This dynamic switching capability enables the same hardware interface to perform multiple functions without physical reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The bridge circuit is designed to serve multiple functions: it can operate as a power transmission interface, a power reception interface, or remain inactive. By integrating both transmission and reception capabilities into a single unified circuit structure, the device achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If cables or exposed connectors are used for power transfer, then power transfer reliability is higher, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transfer reliabilityVSAvoidconnector complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces mechanical connectors and cables with an inductive coupling system using coil assemblies. Power is transferred wirelessly through magnetic field coupling between coils, eliminating the need for physical electrical contacts. This substitution maintains power transfer reliability while significantly reducing mechanical complexity and eliminating exposed connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Manufacturing precision

If separate interfaces are used for power transmission and reception, then each interface can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinterface optimizationVSAvoidinterface quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges power transmission and reception interfaces into a single unified bridge circuit. The same circuit structure, coil assembly, and control mechanism handle both transmission and reception operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated interfaces. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize performance for each mode through software-controlled switching.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 seamless bi-directional power transfer between devices, reducing complexity and cost by allowing the same interface to be used in multiple devices, such as mobile phones and docking stations, and supports both power and data transfer without the need for physical connections.

Implementation Method 1

the coil assembly includes one or more inductive coils for forming an inductive link with the inductively coupled device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the bridge circuit is configured to convert an AC current from the coil assembly to a DC current

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRectification:

Data Source

PatentUS8437695B2Power bridge circuit for bi-directional inductive signaling

Publication Date: 2013.05.07 QUALCOMM INC

AI summary

An inductive signal interface comprises a coil assembly including one or more inductive coils, a bridge circuit including a plurality of switches, and control circuitry. The control circuitry is configured to individually operate the plurality of switches to enable the inductive signal interface to dynamically switch between a power-transmit mode and a power receive mode.