Multimode Inductor-Coil Antenna for Compact Multi-Band NFC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing near-field communication antennas suffer from inefficiencies in wireless power and data transfer due to low quality factors and large sizes, requiring precise alignment and proximity, which limits their reliability and efficiency, especially when operating across multiple frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
A single structure multi-mode antenna with at least two inductor coils electrically connected in series, capable of operating across various frequency ranges, including those defined by Qi, Rezence, and PMA standards, with dynamic adjustment of operating frequency and inductance through strategic connections and materials like ferrite for magnetic field shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If prior art antennas are used for near-field communication, then wireless power and data transfer can be achieved, but the transfer efficiency is low and transmission range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into multiple segments with different conductive wire widths along its length. Each segment can be independently optimized for different frequency ranges, allowing the antenna to efficiently handle multiple operating modes (NFC, RFID, higher frequency standards) simultaneously, thereby improving overall transfer efficiency and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the antenna have different local properties - specifically, varying conductive wire widths that create different impedance characteristics. This local variation in quality allows each segment to be optimized for specific frequency ranges, improving energy transfer efficiency for each mode while maintaining overall system reliability
2Reliability
If prior art antennas are used for near-field communication, then communication function is provided, but antenna size is large which hinders efficient operation
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna incorporates dynamic elements including variable capacitance and inductance that can be adjusted to optimize performance across different frequency ranges. This dynamic adjustability allows a single compact antenna structure to reliably support multiple operating modes without requiring large fixed-size antennas for each mode
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is designed as a universal multi-functional structure that can operate across multiple frequency standards (NFC at 13.56 MHz, RFID, and higher frequency standards). By integrating multiple functions into a single compact antenna with variable geometry, the design eliminates the need for separate large antennas for each function, achieving both small size and reliable multi-mode operation
3Productivity
If inductive charging systems use prior art antennas, then wireless charging can be achieved, but precise physical alignment and proximity are required which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna design incorporates variable geometric parameters including different conductive wire widths and adjustable electrical parameters (capacitance, inductance) that broaden the operational bandwidth. This parameter optimization improves coupling efficiency across a wider range of distances and orientations, reducing the stringency of alignment requirements while maintaining high wireless charging efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna includes dynamic elements that can adjust its electrical characteristics during operation. This dynamic adaptability allows the antenna to optimize its performance for different coupling conditions, making the wireless charging system more tolerant of misalignment and varying proximity conditions, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining productivity
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 antenna achieves improved wireless transfer efficiency and increased transmission range with reduced size, allowing for flexible orientation and enhanced performance across multiple standards, including near-field communication, RFID, and higher frequency standards.
Implementation Method 1
Near-field communication enables the transfer of electrical energy and/or data wirelessly through magnetic field induction between a transmitting antenna and a corresponding receiving antenna
Implementation Method 2
strategic connections and materials like ferrite for magnetic field shielding
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing a single structure multiple mode antenna is described. The antenna is preferably constructed having a first inductor coil that is electrically connected in series with a second inductor coil. The antenna is constructed having a plurality of electrical connections positioned along the first and second inductor coils. A plurality of terminals is connected to the electrical connections that facilitate numerous electrical connections and enables the antenna to be selectively tuned to various frequencies and frequency bands.