Multi-Stage Activation for Communication Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices, such as active RFID tags, consume power constantly even when not in use, leading to unnecessary battery drain and reduced battery life, as they typically operate in a single mode without the ability to conserve energy during storage or inactive periods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-stage activation process with operational modes including deep-sleep, awake, and fully functional modes, where components are set to specific power states based on received signals, such as turning off or idling unnecessary interfaces to minimize power consumption, and using near-field RF signals to wake up tags from deep sleep mode when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If communication devices operate in a single active mode, then they can respond immediately to activation signals, but they consume power constantly even when not in use, leading to unnecessary battery drain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning the communication device between multiple operational states (deep sleep, idle, active) based on external signals. The device dynamically adjusts its power consumption and responsiveness, moving from a static single-mode operation to a flexible multi-state system that adapts to operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the operational lifecycle of the communication device into distinct phases: deep sleep mode, idle mode, and active mode. Each phase has specific power consumption characteristics and responsiveness levels, allowing the device to optimize between power savings and readiness based on the current phase.
2Use of energy by moving object
If communication devices remain in deep-sleep mode to conserve power, then battery life is extended, but the device cannot immediately respond to activation signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by having the device transition to idle mode in advance of full activation. Upon receiving a wake-up signal, the device doesn't immediately become fully active but first enters an idle state where it can quickly transition to active mode, preparing the system before full operation is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-stage activation process creates a dynamic response mechanism where the device can transition from deep sleep through idle to active mode based on the timing and nature of activation signals, optimizing the balance between power consumption and response readiness.
3Reliability
If all components are kept fully active, then the device is always ready for operation, but power consumption increases significantly during storage and inactive periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device components into different power states, allowing critical components to remain in lower-power modes while maintaining the ability to quickly activate. Not all components need to be fully active simultaneously, enabling selective activation based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different components of the communication device can be in different operational states simultaneously. For example, the processor may be in deep sleep while the radio interface remains in idle mode, allowing localized optimization of power consumption across different device components.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the device uses multi-stage activation with multiple power states, then power consumption is reduced during inactive periods, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by creating a universal state machine that can transition between deep sleep, idle, and active modes. This single control framework handles multiple operational states, making the complexity manageable through a unified state management system rather than separate control circuits for each mode.
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 significantly reduces power consumption, extending the battery life of communication devices by minimizing power draw during inactive periods and ensuring tags are ready for deployment with preserved battery charge.
Implementation Method 1
the communication device receives a wake-up signal via the near-field RF interface
Implementation Method 2
the communication device receives an activation signal via the magnetic-field interface
Data Source
AI summary
An example communication device is disclosed herein. The communication device includes a magnetic-field interface; a near-field radio frequency (RF) interface; a far-field RF interface; and a controller. The controller is configured to place the communication device in a deep sleep mode, and in response to receiving a wake-up signal at the near-field RF interface, transition the communication device from the deep sleep mode to an awake mode for a period of time. If an activation signal is received during the period of time, the controller can transition the communication device from the awake mode to a fully functional mode, and if the activation signal is not received during the period of time, the controller can transition the communication device from the awake mode to the deep sleep mode.