Multi-Antenna Switching for IoT Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices such as door locks in IoT environments face increased power consumption due to the need to communicate with mobile devices for determining user occupancy, which is particularly problematic in large-scale settings like hotels.
Innovation Solution
The use of a multi-antenna system with directional and omni-directional antennas, controlled by switching circuitry and a controller, to selectively activate and deactivate antennas based on the location of the mobile device, optimizing communication and reducing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If omnidirectional communication through the third antenna is performed to determine user occupancy, then communication coverage is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication space is segmented into multiple directional areas, each covered by a specific antenna. Instead of using one omnidirectional antenna continuously, the system divides the coverage area and activates only the antenna corresponding to the detected user direction, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna configuration is made dynamic through switching circuitry that activates or deactivates specific antennas based on real-time detection of user location. The system transitions from a static omnidirectional approach to a dynamic directional approach, optimizing power usage according to actual communication needs.
2Measurement precision
If multiple antennas are activated to precisely determine user location, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the antenna array into multiple directional units, each responsible for a specific spatial sector. This segmentation enables precise location determination by identifying which directional antenna receives the signal, while keeping each individual antenna unit relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Switching circuitry acts as an intermediary between the multiple antennas and the controller. This intermediary component manages the complex switching logic, isolating the complexity from the main control system and enabling precise antenna selection without overwhelming the controller.
3Use of energy by moving object
If directional antennas are used instead of omnidirectional antenna, then power consumption is reduced, but communication coverage in certain areas may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The total coverage area is segmented into multiple directional sectors, each handled by a dedicated directional antenna. By activating only the antenna corresponding to the user's sector, the system achieves complete coverage through coordination of multiple specialized antennas rather than one omnidirectional antenna, reducing power consumption while maintaining full coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system achieves universal coverage capability through multiple directional antennas working in coordination. Each antenna specializes in a particular direction, but collectively they provide omnidirectional coverage, allowing the system to select the most energy-efficient configuration for each situation.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device, a related mobile device, and control methods thereof are provided. The electronic device includes a transceiver, a switch unit including switching circuitry, and a controller. The transceiver includes a first antenna having first directionality toward a first directional area, a second antenna having second directionality toward a second directional area, and a third antenna having omni-directionality in all directions. The switching circuitry selectively activates or deactivates each antenna. The controller controls the switching circuitry to deactivate the third antenna and activate the second antenna when a first event occurs in connection with a mobile device located in the first directional area during omnidirectional communication through the third antenna.